P&O Cruises Adds Vanuatu Coffee to Onboard Choice, Giving a South Pacific Island Economy a Boost

P&O Cruises’ effort to enable South Pacific island communities to benefit from the surge in cruising has taken another positive turn with guests now able to choose Vanuatu-grown Tanna Coffee at the cruise line’s onboard cafes.

Having recently added Vanuatu Natural water to the onboard offering, coffee grown in the shadow of an active volcano on beautiful Tanna Island is now available to discerning coffee lovers. 

In 1774, Captain James Cook became the first European to visit Tanna Island and gave it its name – derived from a local word meaning earth. Cook would be amazed to see Tanna Island today with hundreds of individual coffee plantations and a small but burgeoning coffee industry. 

P&O Cruises was looking for a flavoursome single origin coffee as an added choice for passengers and Tanna Coffee came to notice thanks to a chance encounter. 

Sture Myrmell, the line’s Vice President Hotel Operations, enjoyed a great cup of coffee at a cafe on Sydney’s northern beaches and on inquiring discovered it came from Tanna Island in Vanuatu.

“It is fantastic that such a delicious coffee grown in a country that is so important to cruising can now be enjoyed by our guests,” Sture said. “Passengers have an opportunity to buy a Tanna Coffee as another choice at our Deck 12 cafes knowing that the full benefits of their selection will flow directly to the Tanna Island community and the hundreds of smallholder farmers for whom coffee growing has become their livelihood.”

P&O Cruises’ first order of freshly roasted Tanna Coffee made front page news in Vanuatu’s media recently, with the owner and Managing Director Terry Adlington stating: “This represents a milestone for Vanuatu’s coffee industry and is a culmination of the hard work and efforts made over the years by all stakeholders within the agricultural and tourism sectors.” 

Terry is an Australian expat who had previously been growing coffee in the Northern Rivers region of NSW. He came to Vanuatu in 1998 to advise on the rehabilitation of Tanna’s then infant coffee growing venture, which at the time was producing only 3.5 tonnes per year. However, by providing expert support and guidance, production increased dramatically to more than 20 tonnes within 18 months.

Terry decided to stay on and is proud that Tanna Coffee produced 85 tonnes of coffee last year and believes the sky is the limit for further production and growth. “The income earned by Tanna’s 500 coffee growers provides direct support to around 5000 people on the island,” Terry said.

“Through Tanna Coffee, we have empowered the farmers to maximise value-added opportunities by providing them with essential equipment, necessary skills and the knowledge to produce a top quality product with a guaranteed market.”

An added bonus for P&O Cruises' passengers visiting Port Vila, is an opportunity to call in at the Tanna Coffee roasting factory and shop, located about 20 minutes’ drive from the port. Up to 200 passengers on each Vila call, now visit the Tanna Coffee headquarters where they can purchase an array of freshly roasted coffee packs and leave with a great understanding of coffee production and a good feeling about supporting a growing local industry. 

Giving passengers the choice of Tanna Coffee sits well with P&O Cruises’ commitment to sustainable tourism and enabling the economic benefits of cruising to flow through to island communities who have welcomed cruise visitors for decades.

In other initiatives, P&O Cruises employs ni-Vanuatu crew on its cruise ships and is involved in the P&O Partnership with Save the Children. Under the Partnership, P&O Cruises’ passengers each make a one dollar contribution via their onboard accounts to fund the building of kindergartens and aid posts in the South Pacific, initially in Vanuatu. 

Also in line with its commitment to sustainable tourism, Carnival Australia, which operates P&O Cruises, has a Memorandum of Understanding with international aid agency AusAID to ensure island economies can share the benefits of cruising in the region.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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Princess Cruises Heads for a New Record Down Under as Diamond Princess Becomes Second Sydney Ship

Princess Cruises will carry a record number of Australians on cruise holidays next summer, with the magnificent Diamond Princess calling Sydney home as she sails on her first ever series of roundtrip cruises from the harbour city.

In a move which highlights the continuing success of Princess Cruises in the local market, the 2670-passenger Diamond Princess will join Sun Princess in November 2014 to offer the cruise line’s largest Sydney season.

Already popular with local cruisers, Diamond Princess’ new focus on roundtrip cruises from Sydney will cement Princess’ position as Australia’s biggest cruise line, with Australians now spending more nights on Princess ships worldwide than on any other cruise line.

Diamond Princess’ Sydney deployment will follow a $30 million refurbishment which will see the ship fitted with a host of new features including a new sushi restaurant and the biggest Japanese bath area at sea.

The 116,000-tonne Diamond Princess will offer six different roundtrips from Sydney including two circumnavigations of Australia, a cruise to Tasmania, a five-day break to Melbourne and its first roundtrip cruise to New Zealand.

Travellers will also be able to experience a Diamond Princess cruise between Sydney and Fremantle, with new Top End and Southern Australia sectors between the two cities now available in November 2014 and February 2015. Fares start from $1799* for a 12-night cruise ex-Sydney departing November 16 and visiting Hobart, Melbourne, Adelaide, Albany and Bunbury.

Meanwhile fares on Diamond Princess’ full 28-night circumnavigation of Australia, departing Sydney on November 16, 2014, start from $3999*. 

The new range of roundtrip cruises is a significant shift for Diamond Princess, which has previously only offered one-way cruises between Sydney and Auckland during summer months.  It will see her capacity ex-Sydney increase by 64 per cent this coming summer compared to 2013-14.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the new itineraries were testament to Princess Cruises’ growing popularity with Australian and New Zealand passengers.

“Diamond Princess’ new roundtrip itineraries will see the ship carry more Australians than ever before and really affirm its position as the cruise line’s premier homeported ship,” Mr Allison said.

Diamond Princess is presently undergoing an extensive drydock in Singapore to add a range of new features including an 817 square-metre Japanese bath and garden complex, the largest at sea.  During the refurbishment, the ship will also receive a new sushi restaurant, enhanced shopping areas carrying a range of designer watch and fashion labels, a revitalised Horizon Court, additional staterooms, a new sports court and new interior furnishings.

Launched in 2004, Diamond Princess is 290 metres long and is one of the largest ships to sail in Australian waters.  The new features add to the ship’s current impressive array of dining and entertainment options plus signature innovations such as the popular Movies Under the Stars poolside theatre and The Sanctuary, an exclusive top-deck retreat. 

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

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

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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Australians Keen to See Asia by Sea with Princess Cruises 

On the eve of its largest deployment to Asia, Princess Cruises has earmarked the region as the next cruising hot spot for Australians, who are increasingly choosing to explore sought-after destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia by sea.

Over the coming months, Princess Cruises will expand its presence in Asia, becoming the first premium cruise line to have ships based in Singapore, China and Japan for an extended period.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the 116,000-tonne Sapphire Princess was leading the charge with her first Shanghai deployment from May to September followed by a busy season of cruises from Singapore until February 2015.

“During Sapphire Princess’ Asia deployment, we will offer more destinations from Singapore than any other cruise line, with 15 roundtrip departures calling at seven countries and 16 ports including Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ko Samui and Langkawi,” Mr Allison said. 

Mr Allison said the Singapore roundtrip cruises were hitting the mark locally, with interest from Australia topping that of all other major markets.

“Australians want to cruise to exotic destinations close to home so that’s a big part of Asia’s appeal. The beauty of our cruises is that they combine the region’s most desirable destinations into one holiday where our guests can unpack once and wake up in amazing locations all the while enjoying the luxury and comfort of a Princess Cruises’ ship,” he said. 

Sapphire Princess’ 10-night roundtrip cruise from Singapore on December 8, 2014, is priced from $1349* and includes calls to Bali in Indonesia, Kuala Lumpur and Penang in Malaysia and Phuket in Thailand.

“We believe Sapphire Princess’ diverse offerings from Singapore will prove extremely popular and will help to elevate Asia to one of Australians’ most sought after cruise destinations,” Mr Allison said.

Meanwhile in Japan, the newly-refurbished Diamond Princess and Sun Princess will sail from three homeports – Tokyo, Kobe, and an industry first, Otaru on Hokkaido – offering 42 departures featuring nine unique itineraries ranging from seven to 28 days between April and October. 

As the first international cruise line to offer a full season of cruises from Japan, Mr Allison said Princess Cruises was leading the way in establishing the region as a cruise destination.

“We’re thrilled with the level of demand we’ve seen since launching Diamond Princess’ inaugural Japan deployment and expect to see more Australians take up the opportunity to see the Land of the Rising Sun by sea,” he said.

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

*Fares are in AUD, per person, twin share. Conditions apply, subject to availability. 

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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Following on from worldwide interest in the striking image of Captain Kevin Oprey beneath the soaring hull of Cunard's flagship Queen Mary 2, the cruise line has released a behind–the-scenes video which can be downloaded here

The video includes an interview with Captain Oprey and reveals how the historic image was captured by Sydney-based photographer James Morgan a mile off the coast of Bali during the ocean liner’s visit earlier this month.

Queen Mary 2 is in Sydney today marking the end of her second circumnavigation of Australia and her 10^th visit to the harbour city.

The largest ocean liner to visit Australia, she will depart for Brisbane at 9pm tonight before heading north to Cairns then Asia. She will return to the UK in time to mark the 10th anniversary of becoming Cunard's flagship, with sister ships Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria joining in the celebrations in Southampton on May 9, 2014.
At 151,400 tonnes, Queen Mary 2 accommodates 2620 guests and 1253 crew.  In her first 10 years of operation, following a spectacular naming by Her Majesty The Queen on January 8, 2004, Queen Mary 2 has undertaken more than 420 voyages including more than 200 Transatlantic Crossings and called at 182 ports in 60 countries. She remains the longest, tallest, widest ocean liner ever built as well as being the most famous and fastest passenger ship in operation today.

Information supplied by : Cunard Line.

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Melbourne Welcomes Two International Ships in Massive March Call 

Melbourne has welcomed two of the biggest cruise liners to grace Australian waters in one massive March call, with Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice both cruising into town today.

The largest ocean liner to cruise Australian waters with a gross registered tonnage of 151,400, the 345m long Queen Mary 2, is berthed at Webb Dock. The 317m long 122,000-tonne Celebrity Solstice – the third largest ship to visit local waters – is alongside at Station Pier.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia General Manager Brett Jardine said the double cruise call was worth an estimated $1 million to the local economy, with the two ships delivering more than 5000 cruise passengers to the city.

“This is the first time we’ve seen these two international liners meet in an Australian port so we think they’ll be sure to turn some heads,” Mr Jardine said.

“Melbourne is in the midst of a bumper cruise season which will see 24 ships make 70 calls between October 2013 and April 2014, including two visits from Queen Mary 2 and a total of six calls by Celebrity Solstice.”

The busy Melbourne cruise season has also seen two of the world’s most luxurious cruise liners, Seabourn Odyssey and Sojourn make a total of five visits while Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships Rhapsody, Radiance and Voyager of the Seas will make eight calls in total before the end of April.

P&O Cruises’ Pacific Pearl will officially tie up the international cruise season on April 29 before Dawn Princess sails into town for the next season on October 7.

Both Queen Mary 2 and Celebrity Solstice are scheduled to depart Melbourne at 6pm.

For more information visit www.cruising.org.au 

Information supplied by : CLIA Australasia.

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Cunard Celebrates 175 Years in Grand Style

Cunard has released details of the celebratory voyages and events the cruise line has planned in 2015 to mark 175 years of grand British maritime history.

Since its first ship, Britannia, set sail in July 1840 on the first regularly-scheduled service across the Atlantic, Cunard ships have crossed and re-crossed the Atlantic every year, in peace and war, without fail.

To mark the 175th anniversary, the cruise line is offering a series of commemorative cruises which will go on sale in Australia on Friday March 14. 

The anniversary program includes a special voyage for Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 which will see the ocean liner sail from Liverpool on July 4, 2015, following in the wake of Britannia which left the city 175 years earlier to the day. This will also be the first time since January 1968 that a Cunard ship has departed from Liverpool for America. The 10-night cruise is priced from $2749*.

To salute Cunard’s “spiritual home” Liverpool, where the company was founded and the company’s Head Office remained for 128 years until 1967, the current fleet will take part in a historic three-day event from May 24 to 26, 2015.

Queen Mary 2 will arrive in Liverpool on Sunday May 24 and make her first ever overnight stay in the city, berthed in sight of the Cunard Building, which forms one third of the World-Heritage-listed ‘Three Graces’ on the Pier Head. The following morning Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria will sail into the city and for a time all three ships will line up on the Mersey in a spectacle that is expected to draw huge crowds. Over a million people saw QE2 sail into Liverpool for the first time in July 1990. Queen Elizabeth’s 16-night Baltic cruise from Southampton on May 11, 2015, is priced from $3159*.

Cunard’s 175th celebrations will begin at its homeport on May 3, 2015, when Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria will sail into Southampton together and depart later that day in formation. 

Queen Victoria will then depart on a seven-night “Lusitania Remembered” voyage in honour of the Cunard flagship which was torpedoed off Ireland in 1915 while sailing from New York to Liverpool. 

The cruise will also remember the crew and the other 21 ships Cunard lost during the First World War, including Carpathia which had rescued all of the survivors of the Titanic. 

All Queen Victoria passengers will be invited to attend a special service at Cobh on May 7, 2015, 100 years to the day since Lusitania was lost. Fares start from $1389*.

Cunard CEO David Dingle said Cunard history reads like no other. 

“For so long the heartbeats of Cunard and Britain have been as one and we intend to celebrate this landmark anniversary in grand style. These special voyages have been planned over many months to commemorate key dates in the company’s history with all who wish to be part of Cunard’s special and unique heritage. We look forward to delivering this year of spectacle and celebration to the many people who share the pride we feel in Cunard’s ongoing success on both sides of the Atlantic and beyond,” he said.

For more details visit www.cunard.com, phone 132441 or see a licensed travel agent.

Information supplied by : Cunard Line.

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MASTER AND COMMANDER

Off the coast of Benoa Harbour, Bali, Indonesia - (photographed) Sunday March 2, 2014

Captain Kevin Oprey stands beneath the soaring hull of Cunard's flagship Queen Mary 2, the largest and most expensive ocean liner ever built, a mile off the coast of Bali on Sunday during the ship's Round World Voyage in its 10th anniversary year.  Captain Oprey surveys the scene from the top of Queen Mary 2's bulbous bow, an underwater projection that minimises the creation of bow waves around the waterline when the ship is under way.   Two safety craft were standing by during the photo-shoot, but Captain Oprey remained sure-footed throughout.

Queen Mary 2 will make her 10th call at Sydney on Friday March 14 after circumnavigating Australia, and then heads north towards Shanghai, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok and Singapore before turning west for Sri Lanka and Dubai, entering the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal and returning to the UK in time to mark the 10th anniversary of becoming Cunard's flagship, with sister ships Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria joining in the celebrations in Southampton on May 9, 2014.
At 151,400 tonnes, Queen Mary 2 accommodates 2620 guests and 1253 crew.  In her first 10 years of operation, following a spectacular naming by Her Majesty The Queen on January 8, 2004, Queen Mary 2 has undertaken more than 420 voyages including over 200 Transatlantic Crossings and called at 182 ports in 60 countries. She remains the longest, tallest, widest ocean liner ever built as well as being the most famous and fastest passenger ship in operation today.

Information supplied by : Cunard Line.

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

Photo's supplied by our great friend James Morgan of James Morgan Photography.

OVERSEAS PASSENGER TERMINAL UPGRADE

Roads and Ports Minister Duncan Gay has revealed plans for a major upgrade of Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal (OPT) to meet the demands of the booming cruise industry.

The OPT upgrade at Circular Quay will begin in May this year – during the cruise low season – with most of the critical works completed by September.

Mr Gay, said this significant investment in the OPT demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to meeting the growing demands of a booming cruise industry.

"The announcement comes just eleven months after we officially opened the $57-million White Bay Cruise Terminal which already is proving to be a big hit with cruise lines and passengers," he said.

"The OPT has served the cruise industry well since its last upgrade for the 2000 Olympics but with annual cruise growth at record levels in recent years, the time is right to improve efficiency and make sure it is capable of regularly handling the bigger ships that are now becoming more common.

"This is not about changing the shape of this iconic terminal building; it is all about creating more space inside to improve passenger flows, especially from the increasing number of ships that have more passengers than ever before, the Minister said.

Award winning Architects, Johnson-Pilton-Walker (JPW), will lead the upgrade design work - they fully understand the need for subtle external change as the building’s appearance is part of the Circular Quay fabric.

"Very few harbours in the world boast a cruise terminal in the heart of the city and that’s largely why Sydney has again been voted best cruise destination in the world for the 9th consecutive year, Mr Gay said.

"But to sustain this reputation, we have to make the passenger experience at the terminal as good as the views they see as they arrive.

Sydney Ports CEO, Grant Gilfillan, said improving passenger, providoring and traffic flows in and around the terminal in such a high density CBD precinct, has many challenges.

"We believe the upgrade will deliver efficiencies that will enable ships to achieve a much smoother one day turn around, which is preferred by cruise industry itineraries.

"This will be achieved through the creation of additional space to improve provisioning operations and passenger flow, upgraded passenger amenities and a revised traffic solution which calls for a deck extension at the southern end.

"We have awarded the $22-million construction contract to Sydney Company Watpac which is very familiar with the sensitivities of Circular Quay having delivered the redevelopment of the Museum of Contemporary Art in 2012, Mr Gilfillan said.

Minister Gay also announced that part of the budget would fund a separate project – the extension of the OPT wharf towards Campbell’s Cove as a permanent solution to berthing very large ships like the Queen Mary 2.

Together these projects represent a $49-million investment in Sydney’s cruise infrastructure which is exactly what is needed right now to ensure the city continues to keep pace with cruise growth.

"Of course we have worked closely with the cruise lines, OPT tenants and other key Government agencies, on planning for the Upgrade and the wharf extension, to ensure they fully understand the projects.

"Critically important is the mitigation measures that have been planned to minimise the impact of construction on the Circular Quay precinct, especially access around the terminal to Campbell’s’ Cove.

The Minister said the OPT would remain operational during all construction works.

Cruise passengers visiting Sydney during the low season will face some construction work, as the government approves plans to extend the Overseas Passenger Terminal [OPT].

Tthe NSW Government has just approved the $49.4 million upgrade of the OPT due to start in May this year.

The upgrade will add an extra 60 metres to the 220 metres wharf to handle mass market ships, The Australian reported.

When completed it will have a mezzanine level, an entry foyer and a wraparound deck to make the boarding and disembarkation process easier.

Two of the six OPT restaurants will be removed to make way for extra cruise passenger space. They are the Ocean Room, which will cease trading from 12 April and Wild Fire.

The cruise industry has welcomed news of the extension, with many seeing it as an opportunity to stimulate the sector, which has grown 620 percent in the past decade.

However, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines regional vice president Gavin Smith and Carnival Australia chief executive Ann Sherry have called for a second berth at Garden Island or Port Botany.

“No matter how much money the government spends on Circular Quay there is still only one berth,” Mr Smith explained. “The industry is still working on Garden Island and Port Botany as potential further expansion of cruise industry facilities.”

“As the ships that can access White Bay are modernised they will not be able to fit under the bridge and Sydney will require a second terminal accessible by all ships.”

Ms Sherry added: “It is certainly a step forward to accommodate increasingly larger cruise ships at Circular Quay however the redevelopment of the terminal does not in itself increase Sydney’s capacity.”

“Carnival Australia has long advocated shared access at Garden Island and has worked hard to build a positive and cooperative relationship with the Royal Australian navy.”

Road and Ports Minister Duncan Gay said the OPT will continue to operate throughout construction. The terminal is expected to be complete by September this year.

Information supplied by : Sydney Ports.

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Carnival Legend receives multi-million-dollar upgrade for Australian debut

Carnival Legend emerges from two weeks of receiving exciting Australian-first renovations and upgrades

Wednesday 5 March 2014, Sydney: Carnival Cruise Lines today announced that Carnival Legend is ready for the Aussie market, with the ship now bearing a range of exciting Southern-hemisphere cruising firsts. A team of more than 2,000 workers completed extensive renovations to the ship in Freeport, Bahamas during February.

Joining sister ship, Carnival Spirit in Australia on 22 September 2014, Carnival Legend will have many of the same Aussie favourites that have made a name for the cruise line in Australia, as well as boasting a number of features and facilities never-before-seen Down Under.

Upgrades include Red Frog Pub, a Caribbean-themed watering hole where guests can relax with the Pacific’s best beers and rums, play a spirited game of foosball and enjoy live music while soaking up the tropical ambiance. 

The brand new Bonsai Sushi offers delicious, Asian-inspired delicacies - sushi, sashimi, rolls and more, along with popular beers and cocktails from the region - all enjoyed amidst contemporary, stylish décor.

Kids (and big kids alike) will love Cherry On Top, a “candy and more store” with giant pick-and-mix lolly bins, fun gifts and novelties, custom apparel and more.

In addition, Carnival Legend will take on-board entertainment to a whole new level as we debut Playlist Productions in Australia. Playlist Productions is range of new shows, combining short, punchy live performances with special effects and will offer an entirely new experience for guests. 

A huge hit for Carnival Cruise Lines in the US, Hasbro, The Game Show will launch in Australia on Carnival Legend. In this completely new concept for the Aussie market, guests will be fully immersed in life-size versions of their favourite childhood games, including CONNECT 4 and OPERATION, with the chance to win prizes.

Carnival Cruise Lines Vice President Australia and New Zealand, Jennifer Vandekreeke, comments:

“Carnival Spirit has been so warmly received by Australians these past 18 months, so we are excited to be welcoming sister ship Carnival Legend as a new holiday option for Australia. We’ve listened to what Australians love most about Carnival Spirit, and took into account the latest trends in hospitality on shore here in Australia and in the US to design the best upgrades for Carnival Legend. 

“The result is a ship filled with delicious dining destinations, thrilling waterslides, vast spaces to chill out with a cocktail in hand, and a myriad of entertainment options.  It’s a new and different experience in Australian waters.”

You can view a Youtube video of Carnival Legend here : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1sDq9nmGCQ&feature=c4-overview&list=UUdzGTE7C0Mu1xLfgiKwSglQ

Carnival Legend’s dry dock upgrades include:

1. Unique items to the Australian market 

a. Entertainment – More variety with shorter and punchier shows:

Playlist Productions, Carnival’s onboard entertainment crew, is introducing a range of new shows, combining captivating live performances with special effects, setting a new standard in seagoing productions. Developed by top talent in the entertainment industry, the shows feature multi-talented 'triple threat' performers with a diversity of musical styles. 

Legend will also feature the all-new Hasbro Game Show, where guests can watch their favourite childhood games come to life in a fun, interactive game show with real prizes, as well as a new magic show.

b. Red Frog Pub – A first for the Aussie market, get into an island state of mind before you even set foot on one. RedFrog

Pub is our laid-back, no worries, oh-so-lively, Caribbean inspired pub. Dominate at the foosball table, enjoy some sweet tunes from live musicians and sip our tasty beers and rums. So kick back and feel the island vibe come to life. You’ll be a local here before you know it.

c. Bonsai Sushi – The next-generation onboard seafood-and-soy-sauce spot. Bonsai delivers a unique experience — dine amidst expertly-pruned bonsai trees while enjoying festive koi kite celebrations, sit-down service and a menu of delectable catches, as well as soups, sides, sakes and desserts.

d. Cherry On Top – A cruise is the perfect time to treat yourself to something sweet, and Cherry On Top happens to be the perfect place. You’ll find this well-stocked candy-and-more-store not only great for enjoying some of your confectionary favourites, but the best place to pick up  gifts for that special someone, even if — admit it — that someone sometimes happens to be you! 

e. Dr Seuss at Sea 

a. Offering the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast with the Cat in the Hat and Friends: green eggs and ham, moose juice and goose juice, along with colourful fruit and pancake stacks, funky French toast and more, with traditional breakfast favourites also available. Popular Dr. Seuss characters such as the Cat in the Hat, Thing One and Thing Two, and Sam will be joining guests at their tables for fun interactions and one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. 

b. A selection of classic Dr. Seuss books, toys and themed activities for children to enjoy.  Special showings of beloved movies such as “The Cat in the Hat” and Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”. 

c. Children and families will have the chance to meet and interact with favourite Dr. Seuss characters and participate in special photo opportunities featuring colourful and zany Dr. Seuss-inspired artwork, as well as through events and activities such as the Seuss-a-palooza Character Parade where guests can join Dr. Seuss characters in a swirly conga line along the Promenade.

2. Successful upgrades to Carnival Spirit that were added to Carnival Legend in Dry Dock

a. Green Thunder – Carnival Spirit’s star attraction, the world’s steepest and fastest waterslide at sea. A belly-flipping, heart-jolting thrill ride, guaranteed to exhilarate.

b. SplashZone – This kid’s haven features the Power Drencher, a massive tipping bucket that fills up with hundreds of litres of water, then tips and soaks all underneath it – watch out!

c. Aussie power points

d. Aussie pokies

e. USD 450 million transformation of the fitness centre 

3

f. New spa treatment rooms

g. New pool area

h. New coffee machines

3. Features already on Carnival Legend which are also popular on Carnival Spirit: 

a. Nouveau Restaurant

b. Serenity – A popular spot on Carnival Spirit, Serenity is a vast, child-free open-air retreat with 270 degree views of the great big blue, a pool, heated spa, hammocks, plush lounges and cocktail bar for delish daily special drinks. Entry is free of charge for all guests over the age of 18, and is the perfect spot for adults to escape, relax and unwind.

c. 16 bars and lounges

d. Shannan Ponton dining and fitness offerings

i. Exclusive group workouts developed by Shannan Ponton ii. Bespoke menu offerings designed by Shannan Ponton

For more information and bookings, contact Carnival Cruise Lines on 13 31 94, or visit www.carnival.com.au 

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line Australia.

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

CLIA Australasia has welcomed today’s announcement regarding a major upgrade of Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal to meet the demands of the booming cruise industry.

The NSW Government’s plans to upgrade the OPT will allow for faster turnarounds and an improved passenger experience which will in turn enable more large ships to use the berth efficiently,  generating even further benefits for Sydney’s economy.

The ships that visit Sydney bring enormous economic benefits to the NSW economy as they draw hundreds of thousands of intrastate, interstate and international tourists to the city, injecting hundreds of millions of dollars into the economy and generating thousands of jobs.

The above comment can be attributed to CLIA Australasia General Manager Brett Jardine.

Information supplied by : CLIA Australasia.

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Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry Welcomes OPT Decision and Calls For Certainty of Garden Island Access 

Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry today welcomed the NSW Government’s redevelopment of the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay while calling for certainty in relation to shared use of Garden Island.

Ms Sherry said the decision to develop the OPT was a very welcome step but it remained the only commercial berth east of the Harbour Bridge.

“It is certainly a step forward to accommodate increasingly larger cruise ships at Circular Quay however the redevelopment of the terminal does not in itself increase Sydney’s capacity,” Ms Sherry said.

“Carnival Australia has long advocated shared access at Garden Island and has worked hard to build a positive and cooperative relationship with the Royal Australian Navy.”

Speaking at the Friends of Tourism event at Parliament House today, Ms Sherry described Australia’s ‘new golden era’ of cruise tourism and highlighted its value to regional ports and primary producers in particular. 

In a wide ranging address to MPs and Senators, she also pointed to the need for port infrastructure investment and national consistency in port operations.

“If we get it right, the phenomenal growth of cruising that we have seen in recent years, with a 130 per cent increase in passenger numbers in five years, can continue,” Ms Sherry said.

Ms Sherry used the speech to further stress the need for shared long term cruise ship access to Garden Island as a priority issue because of Sydney’s status as the cruising gateway to Australia and the key to regional ports continuing to experience the economic benefits of cruising growth.

“To better understand the current boom in cruising, between 1965 and 1997, the legendary and much loved P&O Fairstar carried 700,000 passengers. More Australians are now cruising in a single year than cruised on Fairstar over a 32-year period,” she said.

“In the post war assisted passage migration scheme, 1.5 million British migrants arrived in Australia, many travelling on P&O ships. By 2016, four years earlier than forecast, a million Australians are expected to cruise each year. There has never been a cruising boom on a scale that we are now experiencing.”

Ms Sherry said that cruising was a ‘gilt edged opportunity’ for regional Australia in particular but there were challenges in addition to the opportunities. 

Some of the challenges with potential to limit cruise industry growth included:

* Port infrastructure requirements including the need for certainty in relation to shared use of Garden Island so that Sydney could continue its vital role as the cruise gateway to Australia and the key to cruise ship visits to regional ports

* The need for national consistency in the operation and pricing of Australian ports where the existing fragmented approach was the maritime equivalent of ‘the bad old days’ when multiple rail gauges retarded Australia’s economic development

* Concern that future ship dry docks, each valued between $15 million and $25 million, could be lost to Australia because of additional red tape costs involved in complying with a disputed interpretation of Customs legislation

Referring to the long value chain of cruising, Ms Sherry said that primary producers were among those who benefited most along with hotels, restaurants, cafes, visitor attractions, tour operators and taxi drivers.

In one year, Australia’s home cruise brand, P&O Cruises, sourced local produce including 3.3 million eggs, 465,000kg of beef, 589,000kg of poultry and 260,000 bottles of wine, mostly from Australian wineries. Tasmania supplied 20,000kg of ocean trout and 40,000kg of salmon.

“When cruising is considered from a value added perspective, you see a rolled gold economic opportunity,” Ms Sherry said. 

“It makes solving any obstacles to cruise industry growth a sensible step for the good of the nation and the urban and rural communities that benefit.”

Information supplied by : Carnival Australia.

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

RUDI SODAMIN’S MASTER CHEF’S TABLE NAMED BEST DINING EXPERIENCE BY PORTHOLE CRUISE MAGAZINE

Holland America Line’s Master Chef’s Table dining experience developed by internationally renowned chef Rudi Sodamin earned the Editor-in-Chief Award for Best Dining Experience from Porthole Cruise Magazine. The award recognises the line’s innovative approach to culinary offerings at sea, and the honor was announced in the February 2014 issue.

The Master Chef’s Table reflects Chef Rudi’s culinary vision of artistry and craftsmanship. The evening features a seven-course dining event for up to 18 guests, with each course personally delivered by a special culinary expert who serves as the dinner host. The uniforms and menus were designed to resemble an elegant chef jacket that embodies the theme of the dinner. Each meal is enhanced with wine pairings specially selected by the ship’s sommelier and the elegant table is set with signature Versace china.

"Rudi’s culinary innovations continue to earn acclaim throughout the industry, and this award is confirmation of his creativity and forward-thinking approach to our dining experience,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. “We’re proud that the Master Chef’s Table was again recognised for its exceptional cuisine, fine wines and first-class service, and we look forward to seeing what Rudi will come up with next for our guests.”

Chosen annually by Editor-in-Chief Bill Panoff, the Porthole Awards are a selection of his current favorites from the cruise and travel industries.

“The Master Chef’s Table is the highest quality culinary experience you’ll find on land or at sea, so it was easy for me to give it such distinguished recognition,” said Panoff. “Rudi continues to transform the dining offerings onboard Holland America Line ships, and his knowledge and talent ensure that every dining experience is going to be memorable.”

Sodamin is internationally recognised as a food authority and one of the hospitality industry's most innovative chefs. He has directed the evolution of fine dining and unique menu options at Holland America Line through his role as culinary consultant. 

“For Bill Panoff to once again recognise the Master Chef’s Table experience as the finest at sea is deeply rewarding and an incredible honor,” said Sodamin. “Holland America Line gives me an exciting canvas on which to create new culinary opportunities for our guests and to continuously reinvent the way we present our cuisine.”

Sodamin’s ideas have been instrumental in the development of Holland America Line’s interactive culinary arts program on board as well. Sodamin also is chairman of Holland America Line’s Culinary Council, which was formed to enrich the premium line’s culinary program and is composed of international chefs Jonnie Boer, David Burke, Elizabeth Falkner, Jacques Torres and Mark Best.

His many accolades include a rating of 17 (out of 20) and Three Toques from the prestigious Gault-Millau Guide (1998), the first for an onboard restaurant and the only such award presented at sea. Recently, he also received the award Meilleur Cuisinier 2013 and Three Toques from Michael Reinartz, founder of the prestigious Gault & Millau, Germany & Austria.

Chef Rudi has authored 13 cookbooks, including Seduction & Spice (Rizzoli, 2000) and Holland America Line’s A Taste of Excellence (Rizzoli, 2007), A Taste of Elegance(Rizzoli, 2009) and A Taste of Celebration (Rizzoli, 2010). His latest book, Appetizers (Rizzoli, June, 2012), is the latest in Holland America’s Culinary Signature Collection series.

With 30 years of hospitality and cruise industry experience, Rudi is a member of the prestigious Academy Culinaire de France, the Maîtres Cuisiners de France and an honoree member of the noble Club des Chefs des Chefs, whose members cook for presidents, kings and prime ministers worldwide.

Despite these accolades, Sodamin is a restless artist, a master never content to sit on the laurels of his last achievement. “Cooking is about life,” said Sodamin. “It’s about energy, it’s about joy and it’s about sharing.”

— # # # —

For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America Line’s voyages, consult a travel professional or call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au

Information supplied by : Holland America Line.

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

 A great one minute video of this morning’s spectacular arrival into Sydney by Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, celebrating Sydney’s Mardi Gras Festival, is now available for download at https://vimeo.com/87915274

Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth Makes Dazzling Salute to Mardi Gras Festival

Cunard Line’s luxury liner Queen Elizabeth made a spectacular entry into Sydney this morning, with a massive ‘Happy Mardi Gras’ cape billowing from her top decks in a salute to one of the city’s biggest international festivals.

Stretching 126-metres long, the cape formed part of a head-turning outfit for iconic performer and personality Vanity Faire, who was positioned on top of Queen Elizabeth on a giant glittering 2.2 metre-high stiletto.

The dazzling display paid tribute to the 2014 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, with the Mardi Gras parade due to get underway in the city tonight.

Reaching almost half the length of the 296-metre liner and measuring 12.5 metres at its widest point the cape was unfurled as Queen Elizabeth entered Sydney Harbour, with Vanity taking her position on top of the stiletto, 41 metres above the harbour, as the liner approached the Opera House around 7.30am.

Berthed at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay until 9pm tomorrow, Queen Elizabeth is the second of the three magnificent Cunard Queens to visit Sydney this summer – the first time all three liners have called to Australia in one season.

Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia, which represents Cunard Line in Australia, said Queen Elizabeth’s arrival was a great opportunity to contribute to Sydney’s Mardi Gras excitement.

“Everyone around the world knows that at this time of year Sydney is in a perpetual state of celebration, starting with New Year’s Eve fireworks and the Sydney Festival and continuing through to the excitement of Mardi Gras – a celebration of diversity which draws massive crowds to the city and many thousands of international visitors to Australia,” Ms Sherry said. 

“Cunard Line prides itself on taking its guests to some of the world’s most desirable destinations and delivering memorable moments during its voyages and today’s arrival is certainly one of those.”

Mardi Gras CEO Michael Rolik said Festival organisers were thrilled by the Cunard gesture. 

“The liner’s spectacular arrival is a wonderful celebration of our Festival and has helped to bring our event back onto Sydney Harbour,” Mr Rolik said.  

Vanity Faire, who boarded the liner in Auckland earlier in the week, said she was enormously excited to be part of the moment in history.  “The arrival was magnificent. I think I had the best view in Sydney this morning – it felt like I was on top of the world,” Vanity said.

Queen Elizabeth’s Sydney visit comes about halfway through her 118-night world voyage. Carrying around 1900 guests, the liner sailed from Auckland to Sydney this week and will set sail tomorrow for Brisbane and the Whitsunday Islands before cruising on to Asia.

Launched by Her Majesty The Queen in 2010, Queen Elizabeth is the second largest liner in the Cunard fleet and offers more than 1000 staterooms.  Her many features include more than 10 restaurants and cafes, two outdoor swimming pools, a Games Deck including paddle tennis, croquet and bowls as well as a two-storey library complete with leaded glass ceiling and around 6000 books.  Her visit follows Queen Mary 2’s call to Sydney on February 19, with Queen Mary 2 due to return on March 14 and Queen Victoria visiting Sydney on March 5.

Some additional facts about Queen Elizabeth’s special arrival:

* The 126 metre long cape weighs 180 kilograms and was made in Melbourne by 50-year-old company Carroll & Richardson 

* The cape features 6500 perforated holes to allow it to billow in the breeze. 

* The cape is made from 1900 square metres of material which was laser printed with the multi-coloured design and took two weeks to machine sew.

* The stiletto is 2.7 metres long and 2.2 metres high and is a stage prop which has been specially modified to accommodate Vanity sitting 41 metres high above sea level.  A temporary stage was created on top of Queen Elizabeth for the shoe.

* The stiletto features 1000 LED lights which will be illuminated overnight while the ship is at Circular Quay, while the cape will be bathed in deck lighting.

* The cape and stiletto were shipped in a container from Sydney to Auckland and loaded onto Queen Elizabeth on February 25.

* Sydney-based cruise ship marine specialists Inter-Marine managed the project which included the creation of a special 140-metre long steel cable dressing line on Queen Elizabeth to accommodate the cape.

Information supplied by : Cunard Line.

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

Photo's supplied by our great friend James Morgan of James Morgan Photography.

Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth Makes Dazzling Salute to Mardi Gras Festival

Cunard Line’s luxury liner Queen Elizabeth made a spectacular entry into Sydney this morning, with a massive ‘Happy Mardi Gras’ cape billowing from her top decks in a salute to one of the city’s biggest international festivals.

Stretching 126-metres long, the cape formed part of a head-turning outfit for iconic performer and personality Vanity Faire, who was positioned on top of Queen Elizabeth on a giant glittering 2.2 metre-high stiletto.

The dazzling display paid tribute to the 2014 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, with the Mardi Gras parade due to get underway in the city tonight.

Reaching almost half the length of the 296-metre liner and measuring 12.5 metres at its widest point the cape was unfurled as Queen Elizabeth entered Sydney Harbour, with Vanity taking her position on top of the stiletto, 41 metres above the harbour, as the liner approached the Opera House around 7.30am.

Berthed at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay until 9pm tomorrow, Queen Elizabeth is the second of the three magnificent Cunard Queens to visit Sydney this summer – the first time all three liners have called to Australia in one season.

Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia, which represents Cunard Line in Australia, said Queen Elizabeth’s arrival was a great opportunity to contribute to Sydney’s Mardi Gras excitement.

“Everyone around the world knows that at this time of year Sydney is in a perpetual state of celebration, starting with New Year’s Eve fireworks and the Sydney Festival and continuing through to the excitement of Mardi Gras – a celebration of diversity which draws massive crowds to the city and many thousands of international visitors to Australia,” Ms Sherry said. 

“Cunard Line prides itself on taking its guests to some of the world’s most desirable destinations and delivering memorable moments during its voyages and today’s arrival is certainly one of those.”

Mardi Gras CEO Michael Rolik said Festival organisers were thrilled by the Cunard gesture. 

“The liner’s spectacular arrival is a wonderful celebration of our Festival and has helped to bring our event back onto Sydney Harbour,” Mr Rolik said.  

Vanity Faire, who boarded the liner in Auckland earlier in the week, said she was enormously excited to be part of the moment in history.  “The arrival was magnificent. I think I had the best view in Sydney this morning – it felt like I was on top of the world,” Vanity said.

Queen Elizabeth’s Sydney visit comes about halfway through her 118-night world voyage. Carrying around 1900 guests, the liner sailed from Auckland to Sydney this week and will set sail tomorrow for Brisbane and the Whitsunday Islands before cruising on to Asia.

Launched by Her Majesty The Queen in 2010, Queen Elizabeth is the second largest liner in the Cunard fleet and offers more than 1000 staterooms.  Her many features include more than 10

restaurants and cafes, two outdoor swimming pools, a Games Deck including paddle tennis, croquet and bowls as well as a two-storey library complete with leaded glass ceiling and around 6000 books.  Her visit follows Queen Mary 2’s call to Sydney on February 19, with Queen Mary 2 due to return on March 14 and Queen Victoria visiting Sydney on March 5.

Some additional facts about Queen Elizabeth’s special arrival:

* The 126 metre long cape weighs 180 kilograms and was made in Melbourne by 50-year-old company Carroll & Richardson 

* The cape features 6500 perforated holes to allow it to billow in the breeze. 

* The cape is made from 1900 square metres of material which was laser printed with the multi-coloured design and took two weeks to machine sew.

* The stiletto is 2.7 metres long and 2.2 metres high and is a stage prop which has been specially modified to accommodate Vanity sitting 41 metres high above sea level.  A temporary stage was created on top of Queen Elizabeth for the shoe.

* The stiletto features 1000 LED lights which will be illuminated overnight while the ship is at Circular Quay, while the cape will be bathed in deck lighting.

* The cape and stiletto were shipped in a container from Sydney to Auckland and loaded onto Queen Elizabeth on February 25.

* Sydney-based cruise ship marine specialists Inter-Marine managed the project which included the creation of a special 140-metre long steel cable dressing line on Queen Elizabeth to accommodate the cape.

Information supplied by : Cunard Line.

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

Photo's supplied by our great friend James Morgan of James Morgan Photography.

Princess Cruises Invites Australians to Come Back New.

Princess Cruises has launched its new brand positioning to the local travel industry, designed to remind travellers that cruising can transform and enrich their lives. 

Titled “come back new”, it aims to reinforce the true definition of cruising by focussing on the transformative experiences that Princess Cruises offers its guests.   

Resulting from extensive market research the cruise line recently undertook, the new brand positioning is aimed at “meaningful travellers” – those who value experiences over things, and desire enriching and transformative experiences. 

Princess Cruises has launched a digital and print campaign based on the new positioning direct to the trade in Australia and New Zealand and will also support the industry with a range of unique selling tools available through its new digital platform World’s Leading Cruise Lines (www.wlcl.com.au).

The “come back new” tagline replaces “escape completely”, with the cruise line set to announce details of a competition to help agents engage with the new positioning. 

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said this was an exciting opportunity to differentiate Princess Cruises in the minds of Australian travellers. 

“After extensive research, we identified a growing segment of people who want their holidays to transform them with new perspectives, new friendships and new stories,” Mr Allison said. 

“They are increasingly looking to discover new places, learn about other cultures, try new foods from the places they’re visiting, and gain inspiration from the world they don’t see every day. They want to come back new and this campaign shows that Princess is the best cruise line to deliver this to them." 

“Our new positioning really captures the essence of our brand promise to our passengers." 

A video capturing the essence of “come back new” can be seen on Princess Cruises YouTube page here

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth to Celebrate Mardi Gras Festival with Spectacular “Queen of the Harbour” Sydney Arrival

From 7am, Saturday March 1

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth will celebrate Sydney’s international Mardi Gras festival in spectacular style this Saturday, with a performer poised on a giant stiletto on the liner’s top decks and a dazzling 126-metre long cape billowing behind her as the ship arrives in the city. Set to stop traffic, the “Queen of the Harbour” arrival will see well-known Mardi Gras performer Vanity Faire on a 2.2 metre high glittering stiletto at the front of the liner, with the multi-coloured cape flowing behind her. Sydneysiders are encouraged to head to the harbour foreshore to watch the event that will herald one of Australia’s biggest celebrations of colour and diversity, in the lead up to the evening’s Mardi Gras parade through Sydney’s streets.

The spectacle has been organised by Cunard Line to mark Queen Elizabeth’s arrival during the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras festival, which attracts thousands of national and international visitors to Sydney. 

With a fleet of three majestic liners, Cunard prides itself on taking its guests to some of the world’s most desirable destinations and delivering memorable moments during its voyages. Stretching 12.5 metres wide and 126 metres long, the cape will be unfurled around 7am on Saturday March 1 as the liner enters Sydney Harbour, with Vanity taking her position on the stiletto before the ship nears the Opera House at about 7.30am. The best vantage point will be on the southern side of the Harbour from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair to East Circular Quay. Carrying 1900 guests, the 90,900-tonne Queen Elizabeth will remain in Circular Quay overnight on Saturday with the stiletto, studded with 1000 LED lights, and the cape providing a colourful display. Her celebration will extend the Mardi Gras festival to the Harbour for the first time.

What: Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth’s spectacular arrival into Sydney, featuring well known Mardi Gras performer Vanity Faire atop a 2.2-metre high stiletto on the liner’s top deck, wearing a billowing 126-metre long multi-coloured cape.

Where: The best vantage points will be from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair round to East Circular Quay as the liner approaches Circular Quay 

When: Queen Elizabeth will arrive through the Heads around 7am on Saturday March 1 when the cape will be unfurled. Vanity will take up her position on the stiletto before the liner approaches the Opera House around 7.30am.

Information supplied by : Cunard Line.

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Shannan Ponton gets ship shape with Carnival Cruise Lines

Fitness expert becomes first-ever Australian Carnival Cruise Lines ambassador 

Sydney, Tuesday 25 February, 2014 – Carnival Cruise Lines has today announced its partnership with Australia’s favourite healthy-living expert and fun-loving family man, Shannan Ponton. 

With more than 20 years’ experience in the health and fitness industry, Ponton will be responsible for adding to the world class Carnival Cruise experience, with a specific focus on maintaining a healthy and happy balance while on holiday. From experiencing tailored workouts, to sampling his healthy dining recommendations, Carnival guests will be able to maximise their holiday of a lifetime with help from Shannan.

“We are extremely excited to have Shannan on board as our first-ever Australian ambassador. His vibrant, enthusiastic personality is infectious and mirrors who we are at Carnival Cruise Lines,” said Jennifer Vandekreeke, VP of Carnival Cruise Lines Australia.

Ponton is developing exclusive group workouts then personally training the Carnival Cruise Lines trainers, as well as providing “do-it-yourself” gym programs and challenges for travellers who prefer a solo workout. This, coupled with daily tips and fun activity suggestions, will offer guests new and entertaining ways to enjoy their Carnival Cruise Lines holiday. 

Shannan is working with the Carnival chefs to design bespoke, nutritious and flavoursome selections for the ships’ ‘Freshie’s Corner’, adding to the existing range of tasty morsels and light meals. He’ll also be providing recommendations on the healthiest picks from the Empire dining room menu, for those keen for healthy holiday options.

Ponton, who recently cruised with his family, is equally excited about the partnership with Carnival Cruise

Lines. “My wife, son and I recently went on a Carnival Cruise and absolutely loved it. We’ll be cruising again on

March 21st with a huge group of our friends as well – we’re converting everyone we know!” 

“What’s so great about a Carnival Cruise is that you can easily find the right balance – there’s something for everyone on board. You can enjoy your holiday and relax completely, but also easily get active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

Jennifer Vandekreeke added, “We’re thrilled to be able to offer guests sailing on board Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend access to a number of world class experiences either developed, or hand selected, by Shannan himself.”

These additional experiences will be available to guests sailing on Carnival Spirit from March 21, 2014, and on Carnival Legend once she arrives in Australia in September 2014. For more information visit www.carnival.com.au. 

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line.

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

EXCLUSIVE, INDULGENT AND THE HEIGHT OF MODERN LUXURY

Celebrity Cruises unveils new exceptional ‘Suite Class’ experience beginning April 2015

25 February 2014, Sydney – Discerning guests who desire the very best in modern luxury cruise holidays will soon be able to indulge in Celebrity Cruises' new 'Suite Class' experience. This will be fully introduced on Celebrity's state-of-the-art ships during April 2015. With exclusive new benefits including a suites-only restaurant, VIP lounge, complimentary premium beverages, plus more, the newly launched Suite Class is designed to create the ultimate luxurious experience. Guests will enjoy incredible service from the moment they arrive with their personal butler taking care of every detail. This is the only way to travel.

From the one-of-a-kind Reflection Suite, with its jaw-dropping ocean views and unique cantilevered shower, to the stylish Sky Suites, Celebrity's exceptional Suite Class experience is designed to set the standard in modern luxury vacations around the world.

The new Suite Class will include:

Private dining - A dedicated private restaurant reserved exclusively for all Suite Class guests will be available morning, noon and night. Each meal will feature unique menus that offer sumptuous dishes not available anywhere else onboard. Guests can truly immerse themselves in the local culture with specially crafted menus inspired by the local destination, and enjoy the world's best ingredients. Memorable and inspiring dishes will be served, from locally caught seafood, to the freshest pasta. The Suite Class chef can provide a tailor-made experience to suite guests and prepare a dish to their liking, and the Cellar Master - Celebrity’s head sommelier - will select from more than 450 wines to provide the perfect pairing.

Premium 'all in' benefits - Premium beverages, dining across all specialty restaurants, unlimited internet access and a private bar with water, sodas and beers will all be complimentary for guests staying in Royal, Penthouse and Reflection suites.

VIP lounge - A private VIP lounge, Michael's Club, will be available to guests staying in Celebrity, Signature, Royal, Penthouse and Reflection suites. A dedicated Concierge service and unique food and beverage experiences by Celebrity's James Beard-featured chef will also be provided to guests.

"Our guests are accustomed to exceptional quality and service, and for those wishing to further indulge in the very best while on holiday we have launched 'Suite Class', specially designed to appeal to the most discerning holiday maker,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “We know that suite guests value privacy, personalised service, exclusive access and flexibility, and providing them with their own unique benefits, such as a dedicated restaurant with a dining experience like no other, is just another way that we are significantly elevating the guest's vacation with us."

Suite guests will also continue to enjoy a large number of benefits including:

The Celebrity 'Suite Class' welcome - Guests will receive priority check-in and embarkation.

Legendary butler service - From unpacking guests' luggage to booking the best destination experiences on land, the Suite Class butler will be on hand 24 hours a day to ensure seamless, dedicated and personalized service.

Luxurious stateroom amenities and benefits – As well as enjoying spacious suites with verandas that showcase sweeping ocean views, guests can indulge in a variety of luxury amenities including deluxe Bulgari bathroom amenities, plush robes, premium bedding and an indulgent pillow menu. A host of other extras will also be provided during the guest's cruise holiday including reserved theatre seating for all Suite Class guests.

The Suite Class experience will also include a daily high-end afternoon tea service served in the guest's spacious and beautifully designed suite.

Information supplied by : Celebrity Cruises.

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Love Boat Captain Cruises Down Under Again in New Video

More than 30 years after the cult television series The Love Boat filmed a special episode in Sydney, the show’s popular Captain Stubing has released a fun video about his latest tour Down Under, revealing he still loves to be at the helm.

Actor Gavin MacLeod, who played Captain Stubing throughout the 70s show, visited Australia and New Zealand in early February to renew the wedding vows of more than 30 local couples onboard the Australian-based Sun Princess.  

The new video captures the highlights of Gavin’s visit to Sydney and Auckland as well as his cruise between the two cities, with Gavin having a little trouble adjusting to his new role as a guest, rather than the captain, onboard the modern Love Boat. The video can be seen here .

Speaking after his tour, Gavin said he had fond memories of The Love Boat’s time down under in 1981, when it filmed a special episode.

“I loved working with Aussies and Kiwis so much so that I came back Down Under to share the love and help some very special couples renew their vows,” he said.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said Gavin’s “love tour” had been a huge success.  

“The couples at both vow renewals were thrilled to have Gavin presiding over their ceremony – they were very special and very romantic occasions,” Mr Allison said.  

“Gavin’s visit also attracted tens of thousands of social media hits and more than 300 television, print and radio articles.  It just shows the magic of The Love Boat continues.”

The Love Boat first hit TV screens in 1977 with the final pilot shot on the original Sun Princess.  Filmed onboard several Princess Cruises’ ships, the show went on to become one of the longest running TV shows in history, cruising through ten seasons from 1977 to 1986. It is still in syndication in 92 countries worldwide.

To see the video visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzN_fgF159w&feature=youtu.be

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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Seabourn Brings Ultra-Luxury to the Western Australian Coast

One of the world’s newest and most luxurious vessels, Seabourn Sojourn, is spending the next week cruising Western Australia’s picturesque coastline in a boon for the state’s economy.

During the week-long sojourn in Western Australia, the 32,000-tonne vessel will spend two days in Fremantle and make the cruise line’s maiden calls to Bunbury, Geraldton and Exmouth before heading north to Bali on February 27. 

Seabourn Sojourn will arrive in Bunbury about 10am tomorrow where the ultra-luxury liner’s 450 guests will have the chance to explore the Margaret River wine region and see the famous Busselton Jetty, before sailing for Fremantle at 8pm. 

The ship will berth in Fremantle at 7am on Sunday for an overnight visit with guests offered tours of the Swan Valley, Fremantle Prison and Yanchep National Park during the two-day stay.

The US$300 million Seabourn Sojourn will also call at Geraldton (Feb 25) and Exmouth (Feb 27) with all four visits expected to inject hundreds of thousands of dollars into the state’s economy.

Seabourn Sojourn is spending 19 days cruising local waters as part of its 116-day world cruise including a total of 11 Australian ports during its second trip down under.

Seabourn Sojourn passengers were offered a range of excursions in Western Australia including:

* Food and wine tours in the famed Margaret River wine region

* An adventure through the Yanchep National Park with its majestic Pinnacles  

* Snorkelling Turquoise Bay in Ningaloo Marine Park 

* Perth city attractions including Fremantle Prison and Kings Park

* A journey through the dramatic red-rock gorges of Kalbarri National Park 

Launched in 2010, Seabourn Sojourn features the most exclusive all-suite accommodation available at sea and the largest spa on any luxury vessel. Famous for its highly personalised service, Seabourn is known as the “caviar of cruising” and has the highest space-per-guest ratio in the cruise industry with nearly one crew member for every guest. 

For more information see a licensed travel agent, call 13 24 02 or visit www.seabourn.com

Information supplied by : Seabourn Cruise Line.

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