Princess Cruises Debuts “Chocolate Journeys” in Partnership with World-Renowned Chocolatier Norman Love.

Princess Cruises has announced a delectable new partnership with internationally acclaimed master chocolatier and pastry designer Norman Love. 

“Chocolate Journeys,” the line’s new onboard chocolate experience will entice guests with an impressive array of onboard chocolate offerings among which are custom-crafted desserts, chocolate and wine pairings, and exquisite chocolate bites created by one of the top names in artisan chocolate.

Since debuting Norman Love Confections in 2001 after a notable career as a pastry chef for many luxury resorts, Mr Love has since received wide-spread recognition for his hand-crafted, chocolate-making artistry including being named as one of the “top 10 chocolatiers in North America”. His sea-going chocolate creations will debut this spring aboard the new Regal Princess and will be rolled out across Princess’ Australian fleet by early next year. 

President of Princess Cruises Jan Swartz said there was incredible passion for chocolate around the world, as evidenced by ever-growing consumption and the plethora of specialty varieties.

“We’re excited to partner with one of the best chocolatiers in the world to bring some additional moments of decadence and delight to our guests with truly amazing chocolate experiences that we know they’ll love!” 

Ms Swartz said she believes the partnership with Norman Love was meant to be, because of the 

line's close association with the iconic TV show "The Love Boat" and Princess' reputation for romance. 

"Based on his name alone this is a perfect match," she said. 

“Chocolate Journeys” will offer Princess’ guests the following sweet experiences: 

Decadent Desserts – Norman Love has produced 15 chocolate dessert designs for Princess Cruises that will be offered on a rotational basis in the ships’ main dining rooms, specialty restaurants and Chef’s Table experience. Examples of the desserts include a Chocolate Tart with Vanilla Mousse and Flourless Chocolate Cake and Chocolate Pistachio Dome with Almond and Pistachio Nougatine.

Chocolate & Wine Pairings – In Vines, Princess’ signature wine bar, wine and chocolate enthusiasts alike can sample Norman Love’s exquisite Black™ Single Origin Dark chocolates paired with specific wine varietals designed to enhance the tasting experience, all selected by Love. 

Captain’s Welcome Reception Treats – Guests will be able to toast the start of their cruise with a glass of bubbly along with “Chocolate Love Pop” truffles created by Mr Love, at the signature welcome reception hosted by the Captain. 

Chocolate Libations – Throughout the ships’ lounges and bars, guests can splurge on a number of decadent chocolate drinks including a Chocolate Salted Caramel Hard Shake or a Chocolate Chile Margarita. 

Chocolate Dessert Demonstrations – Princess pastry chefs will treat guests to entertaining and informative demonstrations so they can create tasty chocolate treats for their family and friends. 

Chocolate Petits Fours at Formal Night – Chocolate bites designed by Mr Love will accompany the dessert menu presented to guests following the formal night dinner. 

Norman Love Renowned Boxed Chocolates Available for Purchase – Passengers will be able to purchase these extraordinary creations in the onboard shops as a gift for family and friends at home. 

Chocolate Spa Treatments – Because chocolate is not only for eating, the ship’s Lotus Spa will offer guests the opportunity to relax with the aroma of pure bliss by offering a Chocolate Indulgence Body Treatment combining a chocolate renewal scrub, whipped chocolate body mask and chocolate massage oil. 

Additional information about Princess’ new Chocolate Journeys experience can be found at www.chocolatejourneys.com.

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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Hundreds of guests on Carnival Spirit have struck a pose on the ship's top decks with Carnival Cruise Lines' ambassador Shannan Ponton taking the biggest selfie at sea.

Cruising from Sydney to New Caledonia, more than 600 people packed the ship's top decks for the health and fitness guru's Biggest Bootcamp at Sea.

With gold coin donations going towards Shannan's chosen charity CanTeen, which provides support for young people living with cancer, participants were invited to take part in the epic ship selfie at the end of the high intensity bootcamp.

Money for the CanTeen has also been raised during morning walks around the deck with Shannan and Carnival Spirit Cruise Director Stu Dunn.

The cruise line's first Australian ambassador, Shannan has been onboard the 10-day New Caledonia cruise helping cruisers stay fit and healthy during their sojourn at sea, with special classes, walks and lectures.

His next cruise will be an eight-night cruise to New Caledonia on Carnival Spirit on August 12, 2014.

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

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Princess Cruises Help Students Find Keys to Success with Baby Grand Donation

A Princess Cruises' baby grand piano that has helped entertain many thousands of cruise travellers over the years has found a new home where young talent is nurtured.  The piano – one of two that became surplus on Princess Cruises' Australian-based ships – is now a beautifully refurbished feature at the High School of the Performing Arts at Newtown in Sydney's inner west.  This week, Princess Cruises Vice President Australia and New Zealand Stuart Allison and Princess Cruises' Public Relations Manager Meg Koffel, visited the school to see the piano in its new creative environment, where they were treated to a mini Chopin concert by 15-year-old Year Nine student, Neil Baker. "Neil's performance was fantastic and it is wonderful to see that our baby grand piano has found a good home at the school," said Mr Allison. 

"It is no secret that many of the musicians and entertainers on Princess Cruises' ships are young people from Australia.

"It's nice to know that a piano that was being replaced on one of our ships is now helping a new generation of musicians to make their way towards bright futures in music,” he said. The baby grand piano, now being used for auditions and practice at Newtown, was one of two donated to the school from Sun Princess earlier this year.  The school's piano tuner, Roger Taylor, carefully restored the piano now at the school while the other has become an excellent source of spare piano parts.

Photo Caption: Princess Cruises' baby grand piano handover at the High School of the Performing Arts at Newtown in Sydney (left to right) Gemma Thomas, Head Music Teacher, Stephen Grey, Principal, Neil Baker, student, Stuart Allison, Princess Cruises Vice President Australia and New Zealand, and Meg Koffel, Princess Cruises Public Relations Manager.

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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Game On for Families on Carnival Legend

Family game night is about to become larger than life with the arrival of Hasbro, The Game Show on Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest Australian ship, Carnival Legend.

Debuting in Australia in September when Carnival Legend arrives in Sydney, Hasbro, The Game Show allows guests to play giant versions of their favourite childhood games including Connect 4 and Operation with sets measuring more than three metres.

Carnival Cruise Lines Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the game show would be a first for Australia and was guaranteed to bring out the competitive spirit in guests as they team up with friends and family to win great prizes.

“Since the concept was first introduced on our ships in 2012, it has been incredibly popular with guests of all ages,” Ms Vandekreeke said. “The opportunity to be transported into the middle of some of the world’s most beloved childhood games is irresistible for many  guests – and when combined with the opportunity to win prizes, it’s no contest!” she said.

Played on the ship’s theatre stage, Hasbro, The Game Show  will feature six main games: Yahtzee Bowling, with a giant ball and larger-than-life bowling pins; Operation Sam Dunk, where contestants have to get the balls into different slots on the “patient’s” body; Connect 4 Basketball which uses a basketball set-up rather than the traditional checkers format;  Sorry Sliders, which involves a giant shuffleboard court and Simon Flash, where two teams of four guests wear giant light-up colour boxes and shuffle themselves quickly to repeat a colour sequence. Each show ends with a Monopoly-inspired game, which sees guests compete to win the most Monopoly dollars. 

The Hasbro set was installed on Carnival Legend during an extensive upgrade in February and joins a range of exciting Southern Hemisphere cruising and entertainment firsts, including great new live shows from Playlist Productions.

Other family entertainment innovations include the new Seuss at Sea program, which  brings to life the magic of Dr Seuss’ timeless books in a variety of ways, including a special Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast with the Cat in the Hat and Friends; an onboard selection of classic Dr Seuss books, toys and themed activities, along with screenings of beloved Dr Seuss movies; and opportunities to meet and interact with favourite Dr Seuss characters onboard and participate in photo opportunities through events and activities such as the Seuss-a-palooza Character Parade. 

Fares on a 10-night roundtrip New Caledonia and Vanuatu cruise on Carnival Legend departing Sydney on October 27, 2014, start from $824* per person quad share or $919* per person twin share. Carnival Legend also has availability on its Christmas and New Year cruises.

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

*subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. For bookings made before August 18, 2014.

About Carnival Cruise Lines

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

CONNECT 4, YAHTZEE, SORRY!, OPERATION and SIMON are all trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. ©2014 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. 

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line Australia.

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P&O Cruises Wins Vote for Best Family Cruise Line

P&O Cruises has been voted Best Family Cruise Line for the second year running in the annual Out and About with Kids Best of Family Travel Awards. 

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said the cruise line was delighted to win the family travel magazine award, given its emphasis on providing great value family holidays which everyone enjoys.

“Not only does P&O Cruises attract a lot of families, we also carry a large number of extended family groups, with everyone from grandparents to aunts and uncles and toddlers all cruising with us,” Ms Marshall said.

“It’s important to us that everyone in the family has a wonderful time on their holidays and winning an award like this is fantastic confirmation that we’re hitting the mark on that front.”

The award follows the introduction of a range of new family offerings onboard P&O Cruises’ ships including the largest adventure park at sea, P&OEdge, the popular Broad Shorts film animation experience and racing car simulators.

All three ships in P&O Cruises’ fleet offer four kids’ clubs – Turtle Cove (3-6 years), Shark Shack (7-10 years), HQ (11-14 years) and HQ+ (15-17 years).

The 2014 Out & About with Kids awards feature more than 20 categories across a variety of Australian and international travel products and are voted for by the magazine’s readers. 

For more information on P&O Cruises visit www.pocruises.com.au . 

For information on the awards see the latest issue of Out and About with Kids http://issuu.com/oawkids/docs/oawk_41_ebook_sm

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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P&O Pacific Partnership Delivers Healthy Results for Vanuatu Island

The ground has been broken on P&O Pacific Partnership's biggest project to date, with construction set to begin on a new health facility on the remote Vanuatu island of Aneityum.

Medical Superintendant Vila Central Hospital Hensley Garae and Country Director Save The Children Vanuatu Tom Skirrow were among those who attended a symbolic turning of the sod ceremony to mark the start of the project. A sandalwood tree was planted to bring prosperity to the site and a woven mat and a walking stick were presented to the cruise line to offer support and strength during the construction of the vital health facility.

Known as the “last island in Vanuatu”, Aneityum is the home community to nearby Mystery Island, one of P&O Cruises’ most popular South Pacific destinations.

Working with Save the Children, the P&O Pacific Partnership is giving the cruise line and its passengers an opportunity to support island communities, such as the people of Aneityum, who have been welcoming P&O ships and their guests for more than 80 years. 

Around $400,000 has already been raised through the Pacific Partnership and three projects - two kindergartens and an aid post - have already been completed. 

The latest project will see $270,000 from the Partnership devoted to replacing a pre-1970s health facility on Aneityum. The new dispensary will include a consultancy room, treatment room, in-patient room, delivery room for maternity services, a waiting area as well as pharmaceutical and equipment storage. 

Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry said the new project was an exciting example of the P&O Pacific Partnership at work. 

“We have made a commitment to give back to the communities who make our guests so welcome and our partnership with Save the Children is an excellent way to achieve this,” Ms Sherry said.

“The Pacific Islands are among the most beautiful in the world offering truly unique experiences but there is also a significant community need when it comes to health and education facilities. Our guests welcome the opportunity to join with P&O Cruises and Save the Children in addressing these needs, beginning initially in Vanuatu.”

P&O Cruises’ guests are able to support the P&O Pacific Partnership by contributing a dollar from their onboard accounts or participating in the 'Born to Knit' program, which is now exclusive to the cruise line and sees knitted blankets donated to newborns at Vila Hospital.

“The knitting program has been such a great success that quite often our passengers know about it even before they arrive on board and are eager to participate,” Ms Sherry added.

The P&O Pacific Partnership is part of Carnival Australia’s ongoing charity program, Carnival Cares, which also supports Lifeline Australia.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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P&O Cruises Voted One of Australia’s Most Trusted Brands

P&O Cruises has been voted as one of Australia’s most trusted brands for the second year running by Reader’s Digest.

The cruise line has been named the most trusted cruise operator in Reader’s Digest’s 2014 Trusted Brands Survey, building on last year’s success when it won the top accolade in the inaugural category.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said it was a privilege to be acknowledged as the country’s most trusted cruise line.

“It is testament to the commitment and hard work of our fantastic team that we have taken home this honour for the second time,” Ms Marshall said.

“We are very focused on delivering a modern and contemporary offering and it’s great to see that our product is speaking to all Australians,” she said.

The annual Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Survey has been operating for 14 years as an independent survey of the Australian public. This year 46 categories were featured and more than 2400 people were surveyed. For more information on P&O Cruises visit www.pocruises.com.au

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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P&O Cruises Expands its Oasis

P&O Cruises is giving guests even more ways to relax with the expansion of its popular child-free Oasis retreat across two decks on each of its ships.

Holidaymakers can now chill out on new pod-style loungers for two, as well as plenty of cushioned lounges and sun beds, designed to deliver stunning sea views with a relaxed vibe.

Situated at the rear of Pacific Jewel, Pacific Pearl and Pacific Dawn, the Oasis retreats also feature a bar, with guests able to enjoy a refreshing drink and light snacks as they unwind. Pacific Pearl also offers two whirlpool spas.

StureMyrmell, Vice President Hotel Operation for Carnival Australia, which represents P&O Cruises, said the cruise line’s Oasis retreats had continued to grow in popularity since they were introduced a few years ago.

“There’s been a real demand for the space from our guestsso we’re delighted that we can now provide even more room for them to relax and enjoy amazing ocean views,” Mr Myrmell said.

For more information visit www.pocruises.com.au or call 13 24 94.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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Princess Cruises Leads the Way in New Zealand

Princess Cruises is preparing for another bumper season in New Zealand this summer, with latest figures confirming it’s the cruise line of choice for one in two Australians taking a transTasman voyage.

Offering roundtrip cruises to New Zealand on four ships sailing from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, the cruise line will make 210 visits to North and South Island ports in 2014, with the number rising by almost 10 per cent to reach 230 in 2015.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the cruise line’s New Zealand holidays had become a firm favourite with Australians over recent years.  

According to the latest Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia figures, a record 98,914 Australians took a cruise to New Zealand in 2013.  Mr Allison said the cruise line’s data revealed that half these passengers travelled with Princess Cruises.

“It’s a fantastic result and it shows that Australians really love Princess Cruises’ New Zealand itineraries as well as our great onboard product which features local cultural offerings and cuisine,” Mr Allison said.

The 2014-15 season will see Sun Princess and Diamond Princess sailing from Sydney, Sea Princess cruising from Brisbane and Dawn Princess from Melbourne.  Between them, the four ships will offer more than 30 New Zealand cruises, with fares starting from $1499* per person twin share for a roundtrip cruise on Sea Princess or Dawn Princess visiting seven ports.   

Mr Allison said the key reasons holidaymakers chose to holiday on Princess Cruises’ voyages to New Zealand included:

1. Great ports:  From the spectacular Bay of Islands in the north to scenic cruising through the remote Fiordland in the south, every roundtrip Princess Cruises’ itinerary features visits to seven or eight different ports across the north and south island.

2. Ease of travel: With more than 30 departures from three different homeports, Princess Cruises offers the easiest way to see New Zealand from top to toe without getting on a plane or hiring a car.

3. The onboard experience: Princess Cruises has tailored its New Zealand cruises so that guests experience the Kiwi touch from the moment they board. Menus and drink selections include plenty of New Zealand offerings, from local lamb to premium wines, while guests can enjoy New Zealand movies, Maori dances and cultural talks during their cruise.

4. Destination experts: Princess Cruises’ focus on New Zealand means it offers a great range of shore tours in each port which reflect its guests’ interests from sea kayaking to winery visits.

5. Value for money: With transport, accommodation, main meals and onboard activities included, a New Zealand cruise provides a great value way to see the land of the long white cloud.

“With its distinct culture and spectacular landscapes, which are vastly different to Australia’s, New Zealand makes for a great holiday and we’re pleased to be taking so many Australian cruisers there each year,” Mr Allison said.

For more information on Princess Cruises to New Zealand call 13 24 88, visit www.princess.com  or see a travel agent.

*Subject to availability, conditions apply. Upgrades to balcony staterooms are available from $49 pp during July and August 2014.

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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 Heavenly Holidays Inspire P&O Cruises’ Latest Ship Names 

After sifting through more than 30,000 suggestions from across Australia and New Zealand, P&O Cruises today drew a line in the sand to reveal the names of its latest ships – Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden.

Port Macquarie artist, Chloe Dickey, 24, unveiled the names in a spectacular 20-metre-wide mural raked into the golden sands of Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach as scores of spectators looked on.

P&O Cruises said while it had been overwhelmed with ideas, the two names, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, stood out from the field as they had a contemporary feel that reflected the blissful and indulgent spirit of a P&O Cruises’ holiday at sea.

Eden, suggested by Nikki Smith from Bentley Park, Cairns, was chosen because of the sense of peace and images of paradise and beautiful destinations that the name evoked. In a happy coincidence, Eden is also an idyllic regional port on the cruise line’s latest itineraries.  

Meanwhile Aria, an entry from Katie Luxa from Canning Vale, Perth, conveyed a sense of beauty, grandeur and escapism – all words that could be used to describe a wonderful holiday at sea. 

Ann Sherry, the CEO of Carnival Australia which operates P&O Cruises, said Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden were fresh, vibrant and contemporary names that captured the essence of its cruises.

“With ethereal and heavenly undertones, we thought Aria and Eden conjured up the happy, blissful and indulgent spirit of our cruise holidays, which offer the chance to escape the everyday world,” Ms Sherry said. “They really capture the cruising state-of-mind that hundreds of thousands of Australians experience on our ships each year.”

Chloe spent more than an hour creating the mural at Bondi Beach, carefully timing tides, swell and runners to reveal the names for the very first time.

“It’s not every day you get the chance to reveal the names of two new ships which will call Australia home, so we wanted to do it in an uniquely Australian way at one of the country’s most iconic locations,” Ms Sherry said. “Chloe has an amazing talent and it was a delight to discover her work and bring her to Sydney to create an image that we think will capture Australia’s imagination.”

More than 93 per cent of entries had featured the word “Pacific”, consistent with the current P&O Cruises fleet – Pacific Dawn, Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl – so the cruise line decided to maintain the prefix across all of its ships.

Ms Sherry said the extraordinary response to the two week Facebook search underlined P&O Cruises’ place as the region’s first and most popular cruise line.

“We were overwhelmed by the volume of suggestions from Aussies and Kiwis who wanted to put their stamp on our latest ships, which we hope will become as adored as our current fleet.”

The most common entries were gem stones’ Diamond, Sapphire and Opal each suggested more than 500 times. Australians and New Zealanders also showed their creativity by putting forward names like Ozzie and Straya, Kiri Te Kawana, the Minogue sisters Kylie and Dannii as well as Dinky Di and Blinky Bill.

After coming up with the winning names and the most compelling reasons, Ms Smith and Mrs Luxa have each won a cruise for two on the inaugural voyage of the ships they successfully named and will also be invited to attend the naming celebration of the respective ships. 

Pacific Eden and Pacific Aria will debut in Australia in November next year taking the cruise line’s fleet to a record five ships sailing year-round from Australia and New Zealand. The ships’ itineraries and home-porting arrangements will be announced in the coming weeks.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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                                                   P&O Cruises Reveals Names of its Two Latest Ships on Bondi Beach 

                                                                               – Friday July 11 from 11.30am

Australia’s leading cruise line P&O Cruises has chosen iconic Bondi Beach to reveal the names of its two latest ships.

The highly-anticipated names will be revealed as part of a giant sand mural by Port Macquarie artist Chloe Dickey at the southern end of Bondi Beach on Friday morning.

After announcing that it would grow its current three-ship fleet to a record five ships based year-round in local waters, the cruise line put a shout out to the public to name the ships and was inundated with more than 30,000 suggestions on Facebook. 

The winning names, suggested by two separate Australian entrants, were chosen based on a shared theme that captures the spirit of a cruise holiday. 

P&O Cruises’ two latest ships will take on the new names when they debut with the cruise line in November next year.  

What: Sand artist Chloe Dickey to reveal names of P&O Cruises’ two latest ships at Bondi Beach

Where: Southern end of Bondi Beach near Icebergs with good vantage points from the walkway above the beach and areas surrounding Icebergs

When: Artist will commence work at 1130am. The name reveal will take place between approx. 1215-1245pm. 

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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P&O Cruises Builds a Great School Holiday with LEGO® Fun

P&O Cruises has been busy building a great school holiday program for family cruisers, with LEGO® Certified Professional Ryan McNaught making special appearances on its ships to teach kids more about the iconic multi-coloured bricks. 

Known as “The Brick Man”, Melbourne-based Ryan is one of only 13 LEGO Certified Professionals in the world – and the only one in the Southern Hemisphere. 

Onboard the ships, Ryan has been spending time in the kids’ clubs guiding children through a variety of LEGO activities and also hosting a special presentation for all the family in the Marquee Theatre.

During his presentation he takes guests behind the scenes and through his enviable position as a LEGO Certified Professional to detail, among other things, his greatest builds – including a replica of The Love Boat, made from more than 250,000 bricks. 

Lucky guests have also been able to join Ryan in the "Ultimate LEGO Challenge" where they are shown how to make a perfectly round ball out of straight-edged LEGO bricks. 

Ryan’s appearances follow the introduction of a LEGO program across the P&O Cruises’ fleet last year, with LEGO DUPLO bricks provided in the Turtle Cove kids club and LEGO bricks in Shark Shack. Shark Shack kids can also enjoy a special wall made from LEGO bricks allowing them to express their own creativity as well as regular LEGO activities led by the ships’ youth teams. 

After sailing on Pacific Jewel last week, Ryan will board Pacific Pearl tomorrow (July 8). 

Sture Myrmell, Vice President Hotel Operation for Carnival Australia, which represents P&O Cruises, said Ryan’s appearances had been a huge hit with guests young and old. 

“LEGO activities are fantastic for all ages. The children in the kids’ programs absolutely love having it available to them and during the Ultimate LEGO Challenge you can see the excitement as our older passengers get to relive their childhood,” Mr Myrmell said. For more information call 13 24 94 or visit www.pocruises.com.au  

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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P&O Cruises Inundated With Almost 20,000 Names for Latest Ships

From Abracadabra to Zenith, P&O Cruises has been overwhelmed with possible names for its two latest ships, with Australians and New Zealanders putting forward almost 20,000 suggestions in just one week.

With only four days to go until the quest ends, the cruise line says the most common choices have taken inspiration from jewels and gemstones, with the names Opal and Diamond each nominated more than 500 times.

But it seems Aussies and Kiwis also like celestial themes, with other popular names including Dream, Starlight, Moonlight and Twilight, often coupled with the word Pacific.

Other prevalent themes have included flowers, nautical terms, indigenous names and Greek mythology.

There’s also been a range of creative and quirky entries including Skippy and Blinky, Crikey and Croc, Heart and Soul, and Pizzazz and Charisma.  Some people have even drawn inspiration from cult TV show Game of Thrones with suggestions such as Daenerys, Arya and Sansa, as well as The Lion King with Hakuna Matata.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said the cruise line had been stunned by the number of responses it had received since launching the shout-out last Monday.

“Within one week we’ve had close to 10,000 submissions, most offering two names which means there’s been almost 20,000 ideas. It’s a wonderful reaction which really shows us how much interest and passion Australians and New Zealanders have in their home grown cruise line,” Ms Marshall said.

With entries for the competition closing at 4pm this Friday (July 4), Ms Marshall said P&O Cruises was now starting to narrow the field.

“We’re looking for names that are different and that have never been used before – plus we’re very keen to see ideas that reflect contemporary Australia and New Zealand,” Ms Marshall said.

Ms Marshall said the reasons accompanying the entries would also play an important part in choosing the final winner.

P&O Cruises’ two latest ships will debut in Australia in November next year taking the cruise line’s fleet to a record five ships.  While the last six P&O Cruises’ ships have all shared the word Pacific in their name – including the present fleet of Pacific Dawn, Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl – Ms Marshall said the latest ships did not have to follow the same pattern.

Australians can submit their ideas via the cruise line’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/POCruises with the successful names to be announced on July 9.

The person who provides the best names, along with a theme and a reason for their choice, will win a cruise for two on the inaugural cruise of one of the ships with a partner or friend, and will also be a special guest at the naming celebration.

The additional ships, which will transfer to P&O Cruises from Carnival Australia sister line Holland America Line, will deliver much needed capacity in the world's fastest growing cruise market. Work is already underway to develop itineraries and home-porting arrangements for the expanded fleet, with details to be announced in the coming months.

For many decades Australia’s best-known cruise ships have been household names, with ships like Arcadia, Oriana, Canberra and Oronsay delivering great holidays and wonderful memories to tens of thousands of Australians.

In 1997, P&O Cruises introduced its first ship in Australia with a two-word name – Fair Princess – replacing the popular Fairstar. 

Fair Princess was followed in 2000 by the first of the cruise line’s “Pacific” fleet – Pacific Sky. Then came three more ships with a celestial theme – Pacific Sun, Pacific Star and Pacific Dawn.  The next two P&O Cruises’ ships – Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl –retained the Pacific reference but also reflected some of the attributes of their destinations in their names.

Across the world, as the cruise industry has boomed, more ships now feature multiple-word names, often including the cruise line’s name in their title.  

Among the most famous ships in the world are the Cunard Queens, including the current triumvirate of Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria.

Close to 300 ship names are now featured in the current Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships – from Admiralty Dream to Zuiderdam.  Fewer than 60 of those ships have single-word names. 

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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Ultra-Luxury Penthouse Spa Suites Added to Seabourn Odyssey

Seabourn has introduced its elegant Penthouse Spa Suites to Seabourn Odyssey just in time for the ultra-luxury liner’s upcoming Australian summer.

The 32,000-tonne ship is heading down under for another summer of cruising from December 21, 2014, to February 23, 2015, and for the first time will offer an additional element of luxury with four new Spa Suites.

Located directly above the industry leading Spa at Seabourn facility, guests can access the suites via a spiral staircase in the lobby of the spa, and enjoy unlimited access to the spa’s Serene Area, as well as spa amenities in the suite itself and the services of a spa concierge during the voyage. 

The spacious suites offer 50 square metres of inside space and expansive private verandas with views over the ship’s stern and out to sea. All feature a living and a dining area with seating for four, a separate bedroom, walk-in closet, glass door and floor-to-ceiling windows onto the veranda, a bathroom with a tub and special spa shower, and two flat-screen TVs.  

Spa suites guests are offered a variety of healthy amenities and spa specialties including personal beverage preferences as well an in-suite bar stocked with flavoured water, fruit juices and a selection of healthy snacks. A calming L’Occitane fragrance is diffused throughout the suite during the evening turndown and soothing spa music is available as a background soundtrack. The bathrooms feature Molton Brown specialty spa products and upon arrival, guests are invited to select from a menu of luxurious bath sponges, as well as designer soaps by Hermes, L’Occitane, Baudelaire and Salvatore Ferragamo. 

The Spa at Seabourn features heated lounges, an aroma steam bath with salt inhalation, a herbal bath, a Kneipp walk and luxurious pampering services such as Chinese reflexology, aromatherapy and Thai massage. 

Seabourn Director of Sales in Australia Tony Archbold said the Penthouse suites were an exciting addition to Seabourn Odyssey.

“The Penthouse Spa Suites take the Seabourn experience to a whole new level of luxury and indulgence - we can’t wait to show them off down under,” he said. 

During Seabourn Odyssey’s visit down under, the US$300 million ship will make 18 calls to Australian ports.

Penthouse Spa Suite fares start from $15,449* per person double occupancy for a 16-day cruise on Seabourn Odyssey from Denpasar to Sydney on December 5, 2014, calling at Lembar and Komodo Island in Indonesia and Darwin, Cairns, Hamilton Island and Townsville with a bonus shipboard credit of US$500 per person.

For travellers keen to explore Australia and New Zealand in ultimate luxury, Spa Suite fares start from $18,699* per person double occupancy for a 16-day cruise from Auckland to Sydney on January 6, 2015, with visits to Tauranga, Wellington, Picton, Kaikoura, Akaroa, Dunedin, Halfmoon Bay, scenic cruising in Charlotte Sound and Milford Sound, Geelong and Melbourne, plus a bonus shipboard credit of US$500 per person.

Seabourn’s first spa suites were launched on Seabourn Quest last year and will be added to Seabourn Sojourn during its next drydock.

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

Information supplied by : Seabourn Cruises.

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What’s in a Name?  P&O Cruises Asks Australians to Name its Ships

In an historic first, Australia’s favourite cruise line P&O Cruises has launched a shout-out for Aussies to choose the names for its two latest ships.

The ships will join the cruise line’s existing fleet in November next year – and P&O Cruises wants Australians to decide what they should be called.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said it was fitting for Australia to name the latest ships, given Australian holidaymakers’ passion for cruising had made P&O Cruises the nation’s most popular cruise line.  

Ms Marshall said it was the continuing popularity of the present three-ship fleet that prompted the cruise line’s decision to expand to five ships next year.

“We’ve been cruising from here for more than 80 years and we carry hundreds of thousands of Australians on holidays every year, so we think the time has come for Australians to put their stamp on our ships by choosing their names,” Ms Marshall said. 

“We’re very excited by the idea and we can’t wait to see what names are put forward.”  

While the last six P&O Cruises’ ships have all shared the word Pacific in their name – including the present fleet of Pacific Dawn, Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl – Ms Marshall said the latest ships did not have to follow the same pattern.

“We’re looking for names that are modern and fresh and capture the spirit of a cruise holiday. 

“Ideally there’ll be some connection between the names of the two ships, but we’ll wait to see what Australia comes up with.”

Australians can submit their ideas via the cruise line’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/POCruises  with the successful names to be announced on July 9.

The person who provides the best names, along with a theme and a reason for their choice, will win a cruise for two on the inaugural cruise of one of the ships with a partner or friend, and will also be a special guest at the naming celebration.

The deployment of the two ships represents P&O Cruises’ biggest ever fleet expansion and will see the cruise line operating the largest fleet of cruise ships home-ported year round in Australia, with five ships sailing under its flag. The additional ships, which will transfer to P&O Cruises from Carnival Australia sister line Holland America Line, will deliver much needed capacity in the world's fastest growing cruise market. Work is already underway to develop itineraries and home-porting arrangements for the expanded fleet, with details to be announced in the coming months. Both ships are of a similar mid-range size to the three existing P&O Cruises ships, with a range of onboard features that will be tailored for Australian and New Zealand cruise customers.  

Please see next page for more background on ships’ names. 

For many decades Australia’s best-known cruise ships have been household names, with ships like Arcadia, Oriana, Canberra and Oronsay delivering great holidays and wonderful memories to tens of thousands of Australians.

In 1997, P&O Cruises introduced its first ship in Australia with a two-word name – Fair Princess – replacing the popular Fairstar. 

Fair Princess was followed in 2000 by the first of the cruise line’s “Pacific” fleet – Pacific Sky. Then came three more ships with a celestial theme - Pacific Sun, Pacific Star and Pacific Dawn.  The next two P&O Cruises’ ships - Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl - retained the Pacific reference but also reflected some of the attributes of their destinations in their names.

Across the world, as the cruise industry has boomed, more ships now feature multiple-word names, often including the cruise line’s name in their title.  

Among the most famous ships in the world are the Cunard Queens, including the current triumvirate of Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria.

Close to 300 ship names are now featured in the current Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships – from Admiralty Dream to Zuiderdam.  Fewer than 60 of those ships have single-word names. 

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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Stylists and Racing Experts Join Carnival Spirit’s Maiden Cup Cruise

Carnival Cruise Lines’ inaugural Melbourne Cup cruise is tipped to be a winner with well-known racing identity Richard Callander and fashion stylists Campitelli Clarke joining the cruise to help punters get into the spirit of the Spring Carnival from the moment they set sail.

A regular on 2GB, Channel Nine’s Wide World of Sports, Seven’s racing coverage and the front man on racing channel TVN, Callander is one of the most high profile figures in the Australian horse racing scene and will exclusively join the Carnival Spirit cruise to share a lifetime of racing experience as well as form tips and expert advice ahead of race day.

“I’ve been to the Cup a lot of times but never on a cruise so I’m really looking forward to it and will make sure guests have plenty of fun and laughs. With a little bit of luck we’ll all back the winner,” Callander said.

Meanwhile,stylists Fran Campitelli and Giselle Clarke will bring their Campitelli Clarke brand exclusively onboard Carnival Spirit with fashion workshops and personal one-on-one sessionsto help guests finesse their Cup outfitand learn how to build a stylish and functional wardrobe. They will also offer boutique Champagne shopping tours in the trendy suburb of Albert Park during the three-night stay in Melbourne.

Once the ship is off and racing from Sydney on Sunday November 2, guests will be able to get into the racing spirit with sweepstakes, virtual betting, Champagne brunches, high tea and gourmet long lunches.

Priced from $1649* per person twin share, the seven-night roundtrip cruise is a sure bet with entry into Flemington and transfers included, plusonboard meals, entertainment and activities.

In a first for cruise passengers, Carnival Cruise Lines is taking advantage of the three-night stay in Melbourne to offerguests the chance to also attend Crown Oaks Day from just $55 per person.

For an additional cost, guests can upgrade their ticket at both race days to reserved lawn seating, The Precinct, The Parade Lounge or Makybe Diva Marquee with some VIP packages includingfood and drink.

“The Melbourne Cup is one of Australia’s biggest and most iconic sporting events and we are thrilled to be joining in the action for the first time this year,” Carnival Cruise Lines Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreekesaid.

“We’ve scoured the nation for the best Cup experts and fashion stylists to ensure our guests get the most out of the event. Whether it’s high fashion advice or trackside know-how to prepare for a successful punt, we’ve got it covered.”

During the three-night stay in Melbourne, a range of shoretours will be available including swimming with dolphins at Sorrento and wine tasting in the Mornington Peninsula.

Once the race is over and Carnival Spirit is on the home stretch, guests can rejuvenate in the onboard spa, relax in the child-free Serenity Retreat, unwind in one of the ship’s 16 bars and lounges or get one final dose of adrenaline on Green Thunder – the steepest and fastest waterslide at sea.

For more information go to www.carnival.com.au

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line Australia.

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CARNIVAL LEGEND IS COMING TO AUSTRALIA THIS SEPTEMBER

We're counting down the days until Carnival Legend arrives for the first time in Australia. We've just given her a multi-million dollar upgrade, so she's ready for her Pacific Island adventures. Carnival Legend will sail seasonally from September 2014 to April 2015 with a range of 8 to12 day itineraries to the Pacific Islands.

Don't miss out, you can book your holiday on board now.

Cheers, mate

Kick back and enjoy Carnival’s RedFrog pub with our own Aussie-brewed craft ale, Thirsty Frog Summer Ale. Chill out to live music, or take on a mate at foosball.

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  Slide all the way to the islands

  The fastest and steepest water slide at sea is on Carnival Legend. Free fall at up to 65km/hr - now that's fast! Plus splash about in the water playground and take on the Twister waterslide.

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  Sail away with sushi

  Tuck into the finest sushi, sashimi, sake and a whole lot more at Bonsai Sushi*, a unique dining experience set amongst bonsai trees and koi kites.

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  Sweet tooth?

  You're on the right ship! Carnival Legend comes with its own candy store. Cherry On Top is the perfect place to indulge in lollies, chocolate, or pick up a gift for that special someone.

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  Relax. Then relax some more

  Pick your deck chair, then zone out to the 270 degree ocean view at the adults-only Serenity Retreat. With a pool, bar, hammocks, day beds and more, it’s the perfect spot to relax.

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  Laugh the night away

  Get ready for some non-stop laugh-out-loud action at the Punchliner Comedy Club, with stand-up from Aussie acts. Take a front row seat, we dare you! Then why not try out another bar at one of 16 bars and lounges.

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  Fine and fun dining

  Whatever your tastebuds are after, you'll find something to suit your tastes. Indulge in the finest of food at Nouveau*, a la carte dining in the Main restaurant, a unique dining experience at Bonsai Sushi*or a casual meal at the International Food Plaza.

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• get active

  Work up a sweat at the two-deck fitness centre or enjoy the incredible 360 degree views on the outdoor jogging track. Then why not have some fun in the sports court or take on a game of mini golf. After a day of fun, cool off and splash about in one of three pools.

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The countdown has begun. Carnival Legends arrives in Australia this September.

*CHARGES APPLY

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Lines Australia.

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WE'RE COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS UNTIL CARNIVAL LEGEND ARRIVES IN AUSTRALIA! For the very first time, Carnival Legend is coming to Australia this September! We've just given her a multi-million dollar upgrade, so she's ready for her Pacific Island adventures. She will sail seasonally from September 2014 to April 2015 with a range of 8 to 12 day itineraries to the Pacific Islands. There's 100 days to go! That's 100 days until guests can enjoy Carnival's RedFrog Pub with our own Aussie-brewed craft ale. That's 2,400 hours until guests can dine at Bonsai Sushi and indulge in the Cherry On Top lolly shop. That's 144,000 minutes until guests can take on Green Thunder or kick back in the child-free Serenity retreat. VISIT GOCCL - YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ALL THINGS CARNIVAL. To access the POLAR Online booking engine, please login at www.goccl.com.au or www.goccl.co.nz. For assistance using POLAR Online, please contact Sales Support on 1300 763 212 (AU) or 0800 968 576 (NZ) Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 5.00pm Sydney time. This email was sent by Carnival Cruise Lines 15 Mount St, North Sydney NSW 2060 Australia.

 Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Lines Australia.

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