Carnival Australia’s Immediate Contribution to Vanuatu Relief

Australia’s largest cruise operator, Carnival Australia, which has multiple cruise brands sailing to the South Pacific, has pledged $150,000 as an immediate contribution to cyclone ravaged Vanuatu.

Carnival Australia is working through its charity partner, Save the Children Australia, which already has a team on the ground in Vanuatu and is preparing to send more people and aid.

The Carnival Australia contribution comprises $100,000 to Save the Children’s Vanuatu relief fund and $50,000 from the existing P&O Pacific Partnership with Save the Children. 

“It is impossible not to be moved by the stark images coming from Vanuatu with lives lost and unimaginable destruction,” Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry said.

“Along with our passengers, we feel a very strong bond with the Vanuatu people for the warmth of their welcome over many decades.

“The contribution being announced today is an immediate first step and we will be guided by our Save the Children partners on what more we and our passengers can do.”

Carnival Australia is the biggest cruise operator in the Australia/New Zealand/South Pacific region and represents seven distinct cruise brands – P&O Cruises Australia, Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Cunard and P&O Cruises World Cruising.

Ships from the combined Carnival Australia fleet account for most of the cruise ship visits to Vanuatu destinations.

“We are very aware of how important cruise ship visits are to the Vanuatu economy and we hope any disruption will be short lived,” Ms Sherry said.

“However, our immediate focus is to work with Save the Children to deliver urgently needed help on the ground in places where villages have been wiped out.

“We have many Ni-Van crew working on our ships and we particularly feel for them at this difficult time for their families and friends.”

Information supplied by: Carnival Australia.

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To celebrate yesterday’s historic Royal Rendezvous and Cunard’s 175th anniversary year, Sydneysiders were treated to a fireworks display above the Harbour last night.

The fireworks lit up the night sky as Queen Mary 2 sailed by Queen Victoria following their first Sydney rendezvous.

After spending the day in Circular Quay, Queen Mary 2 set sail for her second circumnavigation of New Zealand, and will return to Sydney on March 25 before continuing on her world voyage.

Queen Victoria also departed Sydney late in the evening, sailing to New Zealand before heading across the Pacific to America.  

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

Photo Credit to: James Morgan.

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Sydney awoke this morning to the spectacular sight of two Cunard Queens in the Harbour.

In an historic Sydney Royal Rendezvous, Cunard flagship Queen Mary 2 sailed past sister ship Queen Victoria in the early hours of the morning to berth at Circular Quay.

Still the biggest ship to have visited Australia, the 151,400-tonne Queen Mary 2 will spend the day at the Overseas Passenger Terminal while Queen Victoria anchors at Athol Buoy near Taronga Zoo.

Queen Mary 2 will depart Circular Quay about 9pm with fireworks set to light up the night sky as she prepares to saiil past her younger sister Queen Victoria at approximately 9.15pm.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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Magic of Cunard Captured in Special Sydney Exhibition 

Sydneysiders are being given a rare look behind the scenes of the world’s most iconic cruise line, with the launch of a special photographic exhibition to mark Cunard’s 175th anniversary.

From the serving of afternoon tea in Queen Mary 2’s ballroom to the storing of ropes below decks and the view from inside Queen Victoria’s funnel, the OneSevenFive collection brings together 70 stunning images capturing the majesty and grand tradition of Cunard’s three Queen fleet.

Taken by Sydney-based photographer James Morgan, who has captured Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth around the globe, the exhibition features many never-before-seen photos, including images of the ships’ masters and crew at work – and relaxing – on their ships. Preparations for Queen Mary 2’s theatre productions, the ritual folding of Queen Victoria’s flag and crew members shooting hoops on the basketball court beneath the funnel are all on display.

The collection includes some famous images taken during the trio’s maiden visits to Sydney Harbour, while many behind-the-scenes shots were captured during a 175-hour period late last year when James travelled between the three ships in Europe and America to create a visual record for the pending anniversary.

Positioned on two-metre high stands along the Sydney Opera House’s western broadwalk, the unveiling of the OneSevenFive collection today coincides with the first ever dual visit to Sydney of Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria for an historic Cunard Royal Rendezvous.

The rendezvous will form the inspiration for the exhibition’s final two images, which will be taken by James in Sydney today and installed tomorrow morning (Friday March 13).

Reflecting the company’s 175th anniversary, the free exhibition will be on show for 175 hours until late Thursday March 19.

Launching the exhibition, Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia which represents Cunard in Australia, said the Cunard fleet continued to turn heads the world over.

“These images are just as arresting as the ships themselves, conveying all the grandeur and beauty which has captured the imagination of generations of cruise passengers over 175 years,” Ms Sherry said.

Speaking at the opening, James described the design and structure of Cunard’s ships as “a photographer’s dream”.

"I have had many opportunities over 30 years of photographing people, places and events worldwide, but nothing excites me as much as hanging out of a helicopter and seeing Queen Mary 2 sailing towards me,” James said. “It’s an honour and a privilege to work with Cunard and everything I’ve achieved is down to the captains of these incredible ships and the phenomenal warmth and professionalism of all their crew."

The OneSevenFive exhibition will be open to the public from Thursday March 12 until Thursday March 19, running for 175 hours.

#onesevenfive   #forevercunard  @cunardline

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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Queen Victoria will have a starring role on national breakfast television tomorrow when the Today Show broadcasts its entire show live from the decks of the Cunard ship in Sydney Harbour.

 
The popular breakfast team, including hosts Lisa Wilkinson and Karl Stefanovic, will be onboard Queen Victoria as she sails from Circular Quay to anchor at Athol Buoy in time for the historic early morning Royal Rendezvous with sister ship Queen Mary 2 – the first time the two Queens have met in Sydney.
 
The live broadcast is part of a week-long Australian celebration in conjunction with Tourism Australia.
 
The breakfast broadcast will be the start of a big day for Cunard in Sydney with a photo exhibition marking the line’s 175^th anniversary launching at the Opera House and a spectacular send off for Queen Mary 2 at 9pm with fireworks lighting up the night sky as she sails by Queen Victoria on her way to circumnavigate New Zealand for the second time.  
 
Queen Victoria will depart at 11pm en route to Akaroa, New Zealand, before continuing on her 103-night world cruise.
 
Queen Mary 2 will return to Sydney on March 25 following her 13-day circumnavigation of New Zealand.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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Harbour Fireworks to Celebrate Historic Sydney Visit by Two Queens 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2015 Royal Rendezvous Activities 

n.b ship times approximate

Wednesday March 11

* 4.30am – Queen Victoria sails into Sydney Harbour

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

Thursday March 12

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

* 3.45am –  Queen Mary 2 enters Sydney Harbour

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday March 12 – Thursday March 19

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

Cunard Royal Rendezvous in Sydney

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

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

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

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises UK.

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

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Seabourn Encore to Debut Down Under During Maiden Season

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: Seabourn Cruise Lines.

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

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

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

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

About Cancer Council NSW

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

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

About Cancer Council Australia

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

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

Holland America Line Community Support

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: Holland America Line.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

Photo credit: James Morgan.

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CLIA Marks Record Year with Record Night of Nights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Queen Elizabeth Arrives in Sydney Tomorrow for Moving Tribute to Anzacs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What:  Queen Elizabeth Poppy Wall of remembrance 

Where:  In front of Queen Elizabeth at Circular Quay 

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

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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CLIA Australasia Welcomes Virgin Australia as an Executive Partner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: Cruise Lines International Australasia (CLIA)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Royal Caribbean announces partnership with Channel 7 juggernaut My Kitchen Rules

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International is an award-winning global cruise brand with a 45-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry “firsts” never before seen at sea. The cruise line features an expansive and unmatched array of features and amenities only found on Royal Caribbean including, jaw-dropping, Broadway-style entertainment and industry-acclaimed programming that appeals to families and adventurous vacationers alike. Owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSE: RCL), the cruise line sails 21 of the world’s most innovative cruise ships to the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, South America, the Far East, and Australia and New Zealand. World renowned for its friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service, delivered by every staff and crew member, Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 11 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards. 

RCL Cruises Ltd Australia commenced operation in December 2008 as the Australian arm of global cruise holiday company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. The company offers three cruise brands in Australia and New Zealand: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. In the 2014/2015 cruise season, Royal Caribbean International will be the largest cruise operator in Sydney, with three ships sailing in the region: Voyager of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. In the 2015/2016 local cruise season Royal Caribbean International will increase the local fleet to four ships: Legend of the Seas home porting in Brisbane; along with Explorer of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas home porting in Sydney. Celebrity Solstice will also sail her fourth local season out of Sydney. 

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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  Carnival Launches Dive-In Movies Down Under     

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Carnival Cruise Line

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

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Lines Australia.

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