SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 23, 2012) — After sorting through the more than 57,000 cruise vacation photos that were submitted to the Princess Cruises “1,000 Memories at Sea” photo contest, judges have chosen an image of the soaring columns of Ephesus submitted by Christine Svircev of Illinois as the grand prize winner.

The winning photo depicts the grandeur of the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus, a landmark archaeological site in Turkey. As the winner, Svircev has won a cruise for two aboard the new Royal Princess, which debuts next year.

An additional 999 images were also chosen by the judges, and all 1,000 photos will be displayed on the walls of hallways between staterooms and in other locations aboard Royal Princess, when the cruise ship sets sail in June 2013. A special web page showing all winning photos is available at: www.princess.com/royalprincesscontest.

“The judges were amazed by the staggering number of great images that were entered in this contest,” said Rai Caluori, Princess’ executive vice president of fleet operations. “We didn’t have an easy time, but in the end we think the 1,000 photos that were selected are certainly worthy of being immortalized on the ship. We hope all the winners have a chance to sail aboard Royal Princess and enjoy discovering where their photos are displayed.”

Contest judges included Caluori, Teresa Anderson, the line’s vice president of interior design, and Ian Johnson, director of photography and video for Princess.

The 3,600-passenger Royal Princess is a new-generation ship currently under construction for Princess Cruises. In addition to the 1,000 winning photos displayed on board, the ship will feature a 50 percent larger atrium which is the social hub of the ship; a dramatic over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel; plush private poolside cabanas that appear to be floating on the water; a dazzling water and light show; the new Princess Live! television studio; a new pastry shop; more dining options including a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private space that surrounds diners in a curtain of light; and balconies on all outside staterooms. The ship’s 2013 maiden season will include cruises on the line’s signature Grand Mediterranean itinerary throughout the summer, followed by Eastern Caribbean cruises beginning in the fall. More information and video previews of the ship are available at www.princess.com/royalprincess.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company’s website at www.princess.com .

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

Miami, March 23, 2012 – From antioxidant-rich Mediterranean cuisine to ancient healing rituals of India, the experts at Canyon Ranch have teamed with Regent Seven Seas Cruises to develop wellness tips culled from ports around the world to help travelers maintain and enhance their health and well-being while cruising.

Celebrating 20 years of delivering the most coveted luxury cruise experiences to its guests, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the world’s most inclusive cruise line featuring gourmet dining, without any surcharges; fine wines and premium spirits; a selection of shore excursions in all ports; onboard gratuities; air transportation from more than 25 cities; and a luxury hotel stay prior to each voyage.

A pioneer in the evolution of wellness lifestyle, Canyon Ranch operates a state-of-the-art SpaClub facility onboard Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ three awarding, all-suite vessels – Seven Seas Navigator, Seven Seas Mariner, and Seven Seas Voyager – offering a rich sampling of unique treatments and indulgent services.

“Regent Seven Seas Cruises visits more than 300 ports every year and with Canyon Ranch, we offer our guests a wealth of health, wellness and fitness opportunities on board and ashore,” stated Mark Conroy, the line’s president. “Travelers who wish to maintain a healthy regiment of diet and exercise while vacationing will find Regent Seven Seas Cruises provides ample opportunities to do so.”

Abundant Healthful Dining Options

Whether cruising Europe this summer aboard the line’s 700-guest, all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner or the 490-guest, all-suite Seven Seas Navigator, which sails in Alaskan waters, menus will reflect fresh, local and, wherever possible, sustainable ingredients, including Canyon Ranch Spa cuisine. Designed to delight the palette and nourish the body, the Canyon Ranch menu selections focus on healthy carb-rich vegetables, fruits, and moderate portions of whole grains, using fats that are beneficial to health – such as extra virgin olive oil, with a minimum of salt and no artificial sweeteners. Selections include steamed Shanghai dumplings, Latin spice crusted Alaskan halibut fillet and buttermilk panna cotta delight.

Greece is Home to Time-Honored Wellness Techniques

Cruising the Greek Isles while maximizing good health? It’s possible on Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ seven-night Venetian Dreams voyage from Athens to Venice (departing July 20) and 14-night Timeless Mediterranean from Athens to Istanbul (departing October 6). The Mediterranean diet is well documented and with more than 20 complimentary shore excursions available on each voyage, guests have the opportunity keep fit on a two mile walk through the ancient sites of Priene, Miletus and Didyma in Turkey, or go kayaking and swimming along the Dalmation Coast.

Seaweed Helps to Detox and Tone

In Northern Europe, guests can combine the healing power of the ocean with locally harvested ingredients. While on the 10-night Highlands & the Emerald Isle voyage, roundtrip from London (departing September 6) and seven-night Scandinavian Sojourn from Stockholm to Copenhagen (August 8), why not indulge in an Organic Liquid Seaweed Wrap? “We use hand-harvested seaweed from the remote northwest coast of Ireland,” said Laura Hittleman, corporate director of beauty services for Canyon Ranch. “The seaweed promotes detoxification and increases skin toning.”

Set Sail for India’s Ancient Wellness Rituals

Voyages that include India, such as the 17-night Arabian Adventures voyage from Luxor (Safaga), Egypt to Mumbai (formerly Bombay) departing November 14, feature opportunities to delve into one of the world’s most ancient cultures, exploring its unique wellness philosophies while traveling through storied regions including Petra in Jordan; Muscat and Salalah in Oman; and Doha, Qatar. In India, flavorful foods often include turmeric, which is useful in calming inflammation, and at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub guests can experience an Ayurvedic service based on the ancient Indian holistic approach to health. A featured treatment – such as the Abhyanga Massage – balances the body, mind and spirit through the application of herbs and oils.

Overall Tips for Healthy Traveling

The cruise line offers daily fitness and wellness classes – from indoor cycling to yoga or Pilates – which draw a number of first-timers along with seasoned practitioners. “A guest is relaxed and less distracted by the pressure of everyday life when on vacation, which can be an ideal time to try something new like yoga with trained instructors,” Conroy added.

Canyon Ranch also recommends these additional tips for travelers:

• Always use sunblock with an SPF from 15-50, anything less offers too little protection, anything higher invites skin irritation with no added protection
• Stay well hydrated
• Chew and sip slowly to enjoy the environment, company and experiences; by eating slowly a body signals fullness faster to avoid over-eating
• Begin each day with a protein- and fiber-rich breakfast to keep feeling full longer

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is widely recognized as the world’s most inclusive ultra-luxury cruise line with airfare, all-suite accommodations, award-winning cuisine, premium spirits and fine wines, live entertainment, shore excursions, gratuities and taxes, and a pre-cruise hotel stay included in cruise fares.

To receive a brochure or for more information on Regent Seven Seas Cruises, see a professional travel agent, visit www.RSSC.com or call toll-free 800-285-1835.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises – Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the world’s most-inclusive luxury cruise line. Fares include all-suite accommodations, round-trip air, highly personalized service, acclaimed cuisine, fine wines and spirits, sightseeing excursions in every port, a pre-cruise luxury hotel package and gratuities. Three award-winning, all-suite vessels, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Voyager, and Seven Seas Navigator, are among the most spacious at sea and visit more than 300 destinations around the globe.

About Prestige Cruise Holdings – Prestige Cruise Holdings is the parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Formed in 2007 to manage select assets in Apollo Management’s cruise investment portfolio, PCH is led by Chairman and CEO Frank Del Rio, the founder of Oceania Cruises. PCH is the market leader in the upper-premium and luxury segments of the cruise industry with nearly 5,200 berths between the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands, a number the company expects will grow to more than 6,400 berths by 2012.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

“Our loyal guests have always been an important part of Seabourn’s success,” said Richard Meadows, the company’s president. “We wanted to start thanking returning guests sooner, and we wanted to offer them rewards in a different, uniquely Seabourn style,” he said. “With our new Seabourn Club, the difference is choice, and choice is luxury.”

Membership Levels, Seabourn Club Points
Club members can redeem benefits based on five different membership levels, achieved by accruing one Seabourn Club Point for each day sailed on a Seabourn ship. Additional Seabourn Club Points are awarded for days sailed in premium category suites, for onboard spending and for days traveled on Seabourn Journey overland excursions.

Menu of Benefits
Depending on the level they have achieved, Club members select the benefits they prefer from a menu that includes such amenities as laundry and pressing, internet and telephone service, daily newspaper delivery, a Signature Seabourn Club massage in the spa and savings on shore excursions, luggage shipping and premium wine and spirits purchases. Certain levels also receive signature luggage tags and subscriptions to leading travel magazines. Club members can select the benefits they prefer and arrange for redemption through Seabourn’s website for their future cruises. Upper level members also enjoy the services of a dedicated Seabourn Club Concierge to assist with their onboard arrangements. This ability to choose which benefits they prefer mirrors the quality of personalization that is the hallmark of Seabourn’s ship-board experience, helping to create the Seabourn Moments that bring guests back to Seabourn again and again.

Complimentary Cruises
The popular award of a complimentary seven-day cruise after sailing 140 days, or a 14-day cruise after 250 days remains the richest element of the program, and far exceeds anything offered by any other line. These complimentary cruise awards are based strictly on days actually sailed on board. In addition to the awards, Seabourn Club members receive exclusive offers, additional savings for onboard booking, invitations to events on board, as well as Tiffany & Co. recognition gifts as they achieve loyalty milestones. Complete details of Seabourn Club membership benefits are available on Seabourn’s website at www.seabourn.com.
# # #

Notes to Editors:
Seabourn is consistently ranked among the world’s top travel choices by professional critics and the discerning readers of prestigious travel publications such as Departures, Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler. Its stylish, distinctive cruising vacations are renowned for:

Six intimate ships with just 104 or 225 suites
Unique itineraries visiting must-see cities and hidden gems where larger ships cannot follow
Intuitive, gracious service provided by a staff passionate about pleasing our guests
Spacious all-suite accommodations with sweeping ocean views – many with verandas
Gourmet dining experiences as fine as the best restaurants anywhere
Open bars throughout the ship and fine wines poured with lunch and dinner

Seabourn is a proud member of World’s Leading Cruise Lines. The exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line and Costa Cruises. Seabourn is a brand of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL and NYSE: CUK), and supports the Ocean Conservation & Tourism Alliance, dedicated to education and promotion of best practices for protecting the marine environment.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

 (21 May 2012) The Spa aboard Silversea’s Silver Spirit was chosen by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler as the top spa at sea in the US magazine’s 2012 Spa Poll. Silver Spirit was the only ship to score a perfect 100 for its treatments. The results are published in the magazine’s June issue.

Ellen Bettridge, Silversea’s president of the Americas, said: “We are delighted to receive this accolade. The Spa aboard Silver Spirit was designed to be the ultimate retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. This award is validation that we are succeeding in providing a spa experience of unsurpassed quality, and one that we hope will foster a truly holistic sense of balance and well-being for our guests.”

At 8,300 square feet (770 square metres), The Spa aboard Silver Spirit is a sanctuary of pure bliss, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, nine treatment rooms, indoor/outdoor relaxation areas, and an outdoor whirlpool. Guests may indulge in a wide range of restorative therapies including facials, body wraps, massages and acupuncture. The ceramic-tiled Thermal Suite is an exclusive spa area furnished with heated lounge chairs. With its connecting private Hammam (Turkish bath) Chamber, it serves as the setting for the Private Hammam Experience, one of several unique Silver Spirit treatments.

The Spa is operated by Steiner Leisure Limited, a leading provider of spa services.

Condé Nast Traveler’s 2012 Spa Poll results were derived from its 2011 Readers’ Choice survey. Spas were rated excellent, very good, good, fair, or poor on three criteria: Spa Facilities, Spa Staff, and Spa Treatments.

About Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury cruise line industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit — all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of Silver Explorer, Silversea Cruises’ itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, both polar regions and over 400 fascinating destinations in between.

In the US, Silversea has been voted “World’s Best” by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and Travel + Leisure (seven times), and awarded “Best Cruise Line for Luxury Small Ships” by Luxury Travel Advisor (2011). International awards include “Best Innovation in Products and Services” from the Italian Innovazione Marketing Oggi Awards (2009); “World’s Leading Small Ships Cruise Line” from World Travel Awards (2010); “Five Star Diamond Award” from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2011); “Number One” small-ship line in the Readers’ Choice survey conducted by Britain’s Condé Nast Traveller magazine (2010); “Best Luxury Cruise Line” Excellence Award by Spain’s Cruise News Media Group (2009); “Best Luxury Cruise Line” by Australia’s Luxury Travel & Style Magazine (2011); and “Best Luxury Cruise Operator” according to Travel Weekly China (2010).

# # #

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

Miami – May 22, 2012 —

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching a “Freestyle Dash” limited time offer today, Tuesday, May 22, 2012. Available fleet-wide, this offer provides guests the opportunity to save on any of Norwegian’s cruise vacations to popular destinations around the world, including Europe, Alaska, Bermuda, Hawaii, Bahamas & Florida, the Caribbean, and Canada & New England. Guests who book a Norwegian Cruise vacation by Friday, May 25, 2012, will receive up to $250 per stateroom to spend on board (based on cruise length and stateroom category), to pamper themselves in Norwegian’s award-winning spas; treat themselves to dinner in one of the line’s many delicious specialty restaurants or towards exciting shore excursions in amazing ports of call.

The offer, available for just four days, also provides reduced deposits on all of Norwegian’s sailings of three days or longer. In addition, there is up to a $500 air credit offer available on select sailings to Europe, Alaska and Bermuda.

Norwegian offers a variety of exciting itineraries for guests looking to cruise through Europe this summer. For the ultimate in Europe cruising, Norwegian Spirit is sailing 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona and Venice through October 13, 2012, visiting five different countries in one cruise. Norwegian Spirit will also sail nine-day Canary Islands cruises from Barcelona through April 8, 2013.

Norwegian Sun offers nine-day Baltic Capitals voyages May 4, 2012 through September 7, 2012 from Copenhagen, Denmark and Norwegian Jade offers seven-day Greek Isles and Adriatic itineraries from Venice, Italy through early October and a history-filled 11-day Mediterranean and Holy and itinerary from mid-October through April 2013.

Named “Best Overall Cruise Ship” by the readers of Travel Weekly, Norwegian’s newest ship, Norwegian Epic, sets sail on seven-day Western Mediterranean itineraries through October 14, 2012 from Barcelona, before repositioning to Miami for a series of seven-day Eastern Caribbean Cruises.

For those who prefer sun and sand, Norwegian offers a variety of cruises to warm destinations including Bermuda, Bahamas & Florida, the Caribbean and Hawaii.

Sailing from New York City, Norwegian Gem offers seven-day Bahamas & Florida cruises through September 1, 2012 and then will sail a series of nine-day Eastern Caribbean cruises through April 8, 2013. Also sailing from New York City this summer, Norwegian Star sails a series a seven-day cruises to Bermuda until October 21, 2012 when she repositions to New Orleans for seven-day Western Caribbean cruises through April 14, 2013.

Guest may also choose to cruise to awe-inspiring Europe this summer on board the youngest ships sailing in Europe this season, Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Jewel, both sailing a series of 7-day cruises round trip from Seattle.

Following the Europe season, Norwegian Jewel will sail a series of seven-day Bahamas & Florida cruises from New York City through April 14, 2013 and Norwegian Pearl will return to Miami, sailing a series of seven-day Western Caribbean cruises until April 14, 2013.

Norwegian Sky offers guests the perfect opportunity for a quick getaway, alternating between three and four-day cruises to the Bahamas & Florida from Miami year-round.

For an unparalleled experience in Hawaii, Pride of America offers seven-day cruises round-trip from Honolulu to four incredible islands, including a sail by the breathtaking Napali Coast.

Canada & New England itineraries this fall offer guests a unique cruise experience, the opportunity to view spectacular fall foliage and discover the cultures and history of beautiful cities along the east coast. Norwegian Dawn will sail one-way seven-day Canada & New England itineraries from Boston to Quebec City or Quebec City to Boston from September 12 through October 19, 2012 and offers a 16-day Colonial America cruise from Quebec City on October 26, 2012. Norwegian Gem will also sail to Canada & New England on 10-day cruises from New York City from September 8 through October 10, 2012.

Travel partners can utilize the Marketing Headquarters website at www.partners.ncl.com to access exclusive content to support the Freestyle Dash promotion including flyers, emails, banner ads and social media messaging.

To take advantage of the “Freestyle Dash” limited time offer, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), or visit www.ncl.com.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

* Personal Login and Secured Access – Private and secure accessibility for each agent
*Agent Benefits – Outline of partnership perks & earning potential (tiered commission structure)
*Training & Certification – In-depth virtual training and certification program
* Video & Image Gallery – High-resolution multimedia downloads for agent use
* Agent Order Form – Agents can place orders for any materials, including brochures
* FAM Program – Details on familiarization cruises

“We highly value our travel agent partners and continuously aim to provide them with the best resources possible,” said Susan Shultz, Director of Sales for American Cruise Lines. “Dedicated entirely to agents, the new portal will allow them to both master and promote our products in a way that will maximize their selling ability.” Agents working with American Cruise Lines can typically earn between $1,000 and $2,300 per booking, depending on the selected stateroom and itinerary.

“We recognize the significance of the travel agent role in this industry, as well as their contribution to the success of our business,” added Charles A. Robertson, President of American Cruise Lines. “It is a continuous objective of ours to best equip them with the tools they need to succeed.”
The development of the travel agent portal follows a successful series of training webinars on American Cruise Lines’ Mississippi River and Alaska cruises. These webinars and future ones will be available for download through the new agent site. An exact launch date will be announced later this spring, along with further details on what agents can expect.

Additionally, in response to the travel agent community, American Cruise Lines has launched a brand new corporate website at www.americancruiselines.com. Newly designed and loaded with new features and improved functionality, the website will better serve and inform both agents and their clients.
For more information, please visit American Cruise Lines at Cruise3sixty, April 25-30, Booth N.
About American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines, the largest U.S. cruise company, operates the newest fleet of small ships in the
industry and offers more than 35 unique itineraries along the inland waterways and rivers of the Pacific
Northwest, Alaska, the Mississippi River System and the U.S. East Coast, from New England to Florida.
To learn more about American Cruise Lines, visit our Website at www.americancruiselines.com or call
(800) 814-6880. Also find us on Facebook and Twitter.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

Holland America Line’s award-winning Master Chef Rudi Sodamin has designed an exclusive 22-dish vegetarian and vegan menu that highlights vegetables and other naturally healthy ingredients in vibrant, flavorful culinary selections. The alternative menu includes a full range of appetizers, salads, soups and main entrées, and is available upon request at no extra cost for lunch and dinner in the main dining room aboard all 15 ships in the fleet.

“Many more people are choosing a vegetarian culinary experience, yet the options can be limited,” said Richard Meadows, Holland America Line’s executive vice president of marketing, sales and guest programs. “By offering a complete vegetarian-only menu and the largest vegetarian selection at sea, we are ensuring that all guests can take part in an exceptional dining experience while cruising with Holland America Line.”

The savory collection of dishes on the new vegetarian-only menu include Portobello Mushroom and Chipotle Quesadillas, Vietnamese Vegetable Spring Rolls, Curried Vegetable Empanadas, Spicy Lentil and Garbanzo Salad, Sweet and Sour Vegetable Tempura, Vegetable Jambalaya, Grilled Vegetable and Tofu Kebobs, and Baked Cheese Polenta with Mushrooms and Artichoke Hearts.

In addition to the new vegetarian-only menu, 30 new vegetarian dishes will be added to the main dining room menu. These offerings also will be featured as a second vegetarian option in the casual Lido buffet during lunch. Additionally, every dinner menu will now offer guests the option of one appetizer, one soup or salad, and at least one vegetarian entrée each evening, increasing the total number of vegetarian options on board to 52 delectable dishes.

Some of the newly expanded vegetarian selections on the main dining room menu include Corn and Zucchini Pancakes served with Southwest-style cous cous salad, Asparagus and Zucchini Torte with wild rice and sun-dried tomato coulees, Carrot and Parmesan Risotto topped with a lemony arugula salad and crispy carrot ribbons, and Grilled Eggplant and Bell Pepper Masala braised in yogurt with Indian spices and served with coconut-pistachio basmati rice.

Extraordinary culinary experiences are a hallmark of every Holland America Line vacation. Aboard each cruise, guests can choose from an array of dining options — from gourmet-quality fare served in the elegant Pinnacle Grill to casual food favorites served buffet-style in the relaxing Lido Restaurant.

For a full listing of Holland America Line’s culinary offerings, visit www.hollandamerica.com/cruise-vacation-onboard/Dining.action.

For more information on cruising with Holland America Line, contact a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425), or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (April 25, 2012) — Princess Cruises today raised the curtain on Princess Live!, a new type of cruise ship entertainment venue that passengers will enjoy aboard the new Royal Princess. Taking the audience behind the scenes to share the excitement of a working television studio, the high-tech Princess Live! will showcase live television broadcasts, intimate performances from musicians, and special events such as cooking shows, plus will feature an adjacent café.

Located on Royal Princess’ deck 7 just aft of the Piazza, Princess Live! will be a flexible, 280-seat venue based on a television broadcast studio. When the ship debuts in June 2013, Princess Live! will serve as a venue for daily broadcasts of “The Wake Show” with a new twist — a daily live audience. This popular daily show staring the cruise director and special guests from around the ship is a staple across the Princess fleet, but is rarely staged live.

The colorful Princess Live! studio will also host a variety of events, including game shows, interactive cooking shows, art house films, enrichment classes, murder mysteries, trivia, and “Meet the Experts” presentations from the crew. Additionally, Princess Live! will serve as a more intimate performance venue for onboard musicians who will offer “unplugged” and “in-the-round” shows, providing an opportunity for entertainers to connect with the audience in a unique environment.

“Princess Live! will be an exciting new experience for passengers,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “Not only will they enjoy the high energy of being part of a live television production, but they also will have a new opportunity to see more intimate performances from many of our onboard entertainers.”

The adjacent Princess Live! Café will surround passengers with interactive, wall-mounted screens showing the ship’s position, ports of call, points of interest and even international newspapers. The café will serve up specialty coffees, teas and freshly squeezed citrus juice, plus will offer a

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

LOS ANGELES, April 25, 2012 – Crystal Cruises has lined up 10 of Europe’s most spectacular championship golf courses for exclusive, luxury play during two limited-access “Experiences of Discovery” golf-themed cruises this summer.  Hosted by 51-time PGA tour-winner Billy Casper, travelers can strike balls in Spain, Portugal, and Monaco during July 13’s Crystal Serenity voyage or throughout the British Isles on Crystal Symphony’s August 25 sailing.

Courses include:

Edinburgh/Rosyth

•  Gleneagles King’s and Queen’s Courses: Overnighting allows for games on two aristocratic moorland links.

Barcelona

•  Real Club de Golf El Prat: One of Spain’s most exclusive courses, designed by Greg Norman.
•  Club de Golf Masia Bach: Challenging and contemporary 18 holes designed by José Maria Olazábal.

Monte Carlo

•  Monte Carlo Golf Club: Inaugural Crystal club features sweeping Mediterranean Sea views.

Valencia

•  El Saler Golf Course: Pine forests and sea flank this site of several Spanish Opens.

Cádiz

•  Valderrama: Voted the 15^th Best International Course by Celebrated Living readers.

Belfast

•  Royal Belfast Golf Club: Ireland’s oldest fairway, with Belfast Lough and Antrim plateau views.

LOS ANGELES, April 25, 2012 – Crystal Cruises has lined up 10 of Europe’s most spectacular championship golf courses for exclusive, luxury play during two limited-access “Experiences of Discovery” golf-themed cruises this summer.  Hosted by 51-time PGA tour-winner Billy Casper, travelers can strike balls in Spain, Portugal, and Monaco during July 13’s Crystal Serenity voyage or throughout the British Isles on Crystal Symphony’s August 25 sailing.

Courses include:

Edinburgh/Rosyth

•  Gleneagles King’s and Queen’s Courses: Overnighting allows for games on two aristocratic moorland links.

Barcelona

•  Real Club de Golf El Prat: One of Spain’s most exclusive courses, designed by Greg Norman.
•  Club de Golf Masia Bach: Challenging and contemporary 18 holes designed by José Maria Olazábal.

Monte Carlo

•  Monte Carlo Golf Club: Inaugural Crystal club features sweeping Mediterranean Sea views.

Valencia

•  El Saler Golf Course: Pine forests and sea flank this site of several Spanish Opens.

Cádiz

•  Valderrama: Voted the 15^th Best International Course by Celebrated Living readers.

Belfast

•  Royal Belfast Golf Club: Ireland’s oldest fairway, with Belfast Lough and Antrim plateau views.

Lisbon

•  Penha Longa Golf Course: This mountainous Robert Trent Jones, Jr.-designed green is considered one of the European Circuit’s best.

Dublin

•  Kildare Hotel & Country Club: Inland links designed by Arnold Palmer.

Boutique excursions offer socializing during warm-up refreshments, games, lunch, and “19^th-hole” cocktails in legendary private clubhouses, with Crystal also arranging round-trip transportation, team-pairing, carts and caddies (where available), and club and shoe cleaning and storage.  Shoreside activities are complemented by a host of on-board offerings, including parties, awards, golf clinics with PGA pro John Clark, TaylorMade clubs, putting green, and two driving ranges for practice-at-sea.  Billy Casper will also play and mingle with guests, as well as provide tips and presentations.

“We design these cruises to be a golfing traveler’s dream,” says John Stoll, Crystal’s vice president land and port operations.  “Guests need not worry about maneuvering complex foreign logistics, only packing their clubs — we take care of everything else in the finest of style.”

Until April 30, all-inclusive Book Now fares start at $5,330 for 11 days circumnavigating the UK, conveniently round-trip from London/Dover through Edinburgh/Rosyth (overnight), Belfast, Dublin, Holyhead, Waterford, Portland, and the Channel Islands, and $5,410 for 12 days sailing from Monte Carlo (overnight) to Marseilles, Barcelona (overnight), Valencia, Málaga, Gibraltar, Cádiz/Seville, and Lisbon.

Crystal Cruises’ passion for creating unique luxury experiences both on land and at sea have helped earn the company top ratings from international travelers for two decades.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

LOS ANGELES, April 30, 2012 – Crystal Cruises’ largest ultra-luxe ship, Crystal Serenity, has won its seventh award since undergoing a $25 million “Extreme Makeover” redesign last year: Hospitality Design (HD) magazine’s “Judges Award for Distinctive Cruise Design.”  This is the first time a cruise line has ever been recognized in the premier trade publication’s annual awards.  The esteemed judges were so impressed with the ship’s new look, they created a brand-new category to honor it.  A two-page spread in the May/June issue profiles the work by Crystal and Toronto’s II BY IV Design Associates.

“Because design is such a key sensibility of discriminating travelers, we have always been committed to creating ultra-stylish spaces in which our guests can feel at home,” says Alexandra Don, Crystal’s vice president hotel services and design.  “It’s incredibly gratifying to have the industry confirm that our latest vision was something markedly different from an archetypal cruise ship look, and in good company with the most beautiful of esteemed luxury hotels on land.”

Additional honors recently bestowed upon Crystal Serenity include #1 Cruise Ship (Mid-Sized) from Condé Nast Traveler and Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships, the Association of Retail Environment’s Crystal design award, and three Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, for luxury ship, suite and stateroom designs.  All 535 staterooms, retail spaces, outdoor pool deck, corridors, and more received a chic “Fifth Avenue”-style facelift during two weeks at Hamburg’s Blohm + Voss shipyard last May.  Crystal Symphony will be undergoing her own “Extreme Makeover” there this June, completing a five-year plan to redesign the entire vessel.

Crystal Serenity will be embarking on her first all-inclusive voyage May 8, after which she’ll sail 19 seven- to twelve-day luxury European cruises through December.  All-inclusive voyages sailing around the world through early 2014 are now on sale, with early bookings receiving the best “Book By” fares.  Special offers are available for family or friend groups, back-to-back cruise combinations, and new-to-Crystal guests sponsored by Crystal Society members.

Crystal Cruises’ ethos of warm and friendly attentiveness, proffered by top-trained service staff from around the world, has earned the line a reputation for elevating hospitality to an art form.  With no guest request left untended, Crystal Cruises has been the perfect choice for luxury travelers for over two decades, earning more “World’s Best” awards than any other cruise line, resort, or hotel in history.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

March 27, 2012 – The Taj Mahal… Agra Fort… the Pyramids of Giza… the Sphinx… these legendary sites and more are among the “must-see” sites travelers can discover on two special Regent Seven Seas Cruises voyages. And, with the all-inclusive luxury line’s two-for-one fares, free air, free pre- and post-cruise land programs and bonus savings, travelers can visit these once-in-a-lifetime destinations at a once-in-a-lifetime value.

“Many travelers have a wish list of places they want to visit,” said Mark Conroy, the line’s president. “Our guests can experience some of the world’s most breathtaking sites on one cruise that combines the Indian Sea, Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden. All the while, they will be exploring these exotic places in all-suite comfort, enjoying our signature service and cuisine.”

Choose from Fall or Spring Sailings

The 17-night Arabian Adventures – departing November 14, 2012 – is a voyage from Safaga, Egypt, to Mumbai (formerly Bombay). Guests will have the opportunity to visit Petra in Jordan; Muscat and Salalah in Oman; Fujairah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates; and Doha, Qatar. The reverse itinerary – departing April 18, 2013 – is called Red Sea Rendezvous (16 nights).

With as many as 44 complimentary shore excursions offered on each sailing, guests can explore the striking desert scenery of Wadi Rum, where T.E. Lawrence began his revolt against the Turks in 1917 and where the desert scenes in “Lawrence of Arabia” were filmed; discover the seventh-century rock-cut temples of Elephanta Caves outside of Mumbai; and search the sacred site of “Jebel Qarra,” said to be the tomb of the biblical Job in Salalah.

Pre- & Post-Cruise Land Programs

Guests who book by June 30, 2012, will also receive free three-night land tours both before and after the voyage. Highlights include:

• Pharaoh’s Treasures – Highlights include one night in Cairo where guests will have an opportunity to visit the Egyptian museum, the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx and the Citadel followed by two nights in Luxor where guests will discover Karnak Temple, the largest religious temple ever built by man; Luxor Temple; Hatshepsut Temple; Medinet Habu; and the Valley of the Kings, home to more than 60 tombs of pharaohs and nobleman.

• The Golden Triangle – in addition to visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal, guests will visit the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah and Agra Fort, a World Heritage Site credited to Emperor Akbar; the open-air royal observatory Jantar Mantar in Jaipur; and New Delhi, including Humayun’s tomb and the Qutub Minar.

Rates for this 23-night cruise-tour vacation start at $8,499 per guest for the November 14, 2012, voyage and $10,499 per guest for the April 18, 2013. Fares include free round-trip air transportation, free unlimited shore excursions, free unlimited beverages including fine wines and premium spirits, free pre-paid gratuities, and more.

Travelers visit these wonders of antiquity aboard the all-balcony, all-suite Seven Seas Voyager, which received a multi-million dollar refurbishment in September 2011. The suites on the award-winning, 700-guest ship are among the most spacious and luxurious at sea ranging in size from 356 to 1,403 square feet.

 

About Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the world’s most inclusive luxury cruise line. Fares include all-suite accommodations, round-trip air, highly personalized service, acclaimed cuisine, fine wines and spirits, sightseeing excursions in every port, a pre-cruise luxury hotel package and gratuities. Three award-winning, all-suite vessels, Seven Seas Navigator, Seven Seas Mariner, and Seven Seas Voyager, are among the most spacious at sea and visit more than 300 destinations around the globe. To receive a brochure or for more information, see a professional travel agent, visit www.RSSC.com or call toll-free 800-285-1835.

About Prestige Cruise Holdings
Prestige Cruise Holdings (PCH) is the parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. PCH manages select assets in Apollo Management’s cruise investment portfolio and is led by Chairman & CEO Frank J. Del Rio and President & COO Kunal S. Kamlani. PCH is the market leader in the upper-premium and luxury segments of the cruise industry with nearly 5,200 berths between the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands, a number the company expects will grow to approximately 6,400 berths by mid 2012.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

Miami – Apr 17, 2012 —

PortMiami and Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that Norwegian Cruise Line’s new state-of-the-art 4,000 passenger ship, Norwegian Getaway, will make Miami her year-round home port. Norwegian Getaway – which will be the largest ship ever to home port year-round in Miami – will embark on weekly cruises beginning in the spring of 2014. Miami-Dade County officials joined Norwegian Cruise Line Chief Executive Officer Kevin Sheehan today at PortMiami on board Norwegian Spirit for this announcement.

“PortMiami is pleased to be the home of the most modern and innovative ships on the seas today. Norwegian Getaway will be a great addition to our fleet,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. “We are anxious to welcome Norwegian Getaway to the Cruise Capital of the World.” Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise brand to sail from Miami.

“Miami has been the home of this Company since our beginning in 1966. Therefore, we are so excited to bring one of our two new Breakaway-class ships here to Miami to homeport year-round,” said Norwegian Cruise Line Chief Executive Officer Kevin Sheehan. “Norwegian Getaway will embrace all that the Magic City has to offer and will offer an extraordinary cruise experience to the more than 4,000 guests who will sail on her each week beginning in spring 2014.”

Miami-Dade County Commissioner Rebeca Sosa, joined County Commission Chairman Joe A. Martinez in welcoming this new vessel to South Florida.

“The Norwegian brand is known around the world for its Freestyle Cruising,” Sosa said. “We are looking forward to bringing a new Norwegian ship to our community.”

PortMiami Director Bill Johnson said, “Norwegian vessels will generate more than one million passenger moves annually through the Port once Norwegian Getaway arrives, contributing an estimated $500,000,000 each year to Florida’s economy. Norwegian Getaway alone is expected to generate 450,000 passenger moves each year.”

Norwegian Cruise Line has been sailing its ships from PortMiami longer than any other cruise brand, since the company’s origins in 1966. Norwegian currently has three ships sailing seasonally from Miami, including Norwegian Epic, the line’s largest vessel carrying more than 4,100 guests. Norwegian Sky has been sailing three and four-day itineraries to the Bahamas year-round from Miami since 2007.

Being built at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Getaway will be 144,000 gross tons and is scheduled for delivery in spring 2014. Norwegian will announce the ship’s inaugural itineraries and on-sale dates later this year. Norwegian Getaway’s sister ship, Norwegian Breakaway, will begin sailing from her year-round home port of New York City in May 2013. To book a Norwegian Cruise Line sailing, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 800-327-7030 or visit www.ncl.com.

About PortMiami

PortMiami is the world’s busiest cruise port handling more than four million passengers last year, the fourth year in a row in which the Port topped the four million mark for cruise traffic. For more information about PortMiami please visit www.miamadade.gov.

About Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator in cruise travel with a 45-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising which has revolutionized the industry by allowing guests more freedom and flexibility.

Today, Norwegian invites consumers to “Cruise Like a Norwegian” on one of its 11 purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on some of the newest and most contemporary ships at sea. The Company has two 4,000-passenger vessels, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, on order for delivery in April 2013 and April 2014.

Norwegian’s largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, debuted in June 2010 and has been named “Best Overall Cruise Ship” by the readers of Travel Weekly. Norwegian Cruise Line is the official cruise line of Blue Man Group, appearing for the first time at sea on Norwegian Epic, as well as the official cruise line of Legends in Concert, Second City® Comedy Troupe, Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos, and Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids. Cirque Dreams? & Dinner is also featured on board Norwegian Epic as the first show of its kind at sea under a big top.

High resolution, downloadable images are available at www.ncl.com/pressroom. For further information on Norwegian Cruise Line, visit www.ncl.com, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, watch us on YouTube, or contact us in the U.S. and Canada at 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784).

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©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

Miami – Apr 16, 2012 —

Just in time for summer vacation planning, Norwegian Cruise Line (“Norwegian”) is launching an exciting offer for families who book a 2012 cruise from today through May 13, 2012. With the “Little Norwegian’s Explore For Free” offer, children 12 years and younger will receive complimentary Norwegian-sponsored shore excursions* and teens (13 to 17 years old) will receive half-off shore excursions* when in the same stateroom with a paying adult on the same excursion. This applies to all 2012 sailings fleet-wide for all ports of call. Families can whale watch in Alaska; explore ancient cities in Europe; or have fun in the sun on a snorkel excursion in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda or Hawai’i.

In conjunction with this exciting offer, Norwegian has partnered with popular kid’s clothing retailer, The Children’s Place, on “A Place in the Sun Sweepstakes,” where participants can enter online at www.childrensplace.com or in retail stores to win a seven-day cruise to the Caribbean or Bermuda for a family of four. In addition, those who qualify for the complimentary shore excursion promotion will receive an e-coupon for 20% off a purchase of $50 or more at The Children’s Place (valid in the U.S. and Canada).

Norwegian’s array of Freestyle Cruising options gives families the flexibility to experience the vacation they’ve always wanted including family-friendly accommodations and a variety of entertainment and dining options. Guests of all ages can enjoy Nickelodeon activities and shows on board Norwegian Jewel’s sailings to Alaska from Seattle; Norwegian Epic’s voyages to the Western Mediterranean from Barcelona or to the Caribbean from Miami; and Norwegian Gem’s sailings from New York to the Bahamas & Florida or the Caribbean.

The line recently announced enhancements to its youth and teen programs, Splash Academy and Entourage. Both Splash Academy and Entourage will feature a different theme every day. Whether it’s ocean-related, pirates, space cowboys, jungle fever or circus, every day will offer a new surprise that is tailored to the individual age groups – Guppies for ages up to 2; Turtles for ages 3 to 5; Seals for ages 6 to 9; and Dolphins for ages 10 to 12. The enhanced curriculum focuses on team building and assisting in developing children’s interpersonal and confidence-building skills. With activities that are tailored specifically to each age group, the new youth and teen programs focus on creative and unique activities, along with more sporting events, through a partnership with King’s Foundation and Camps. A highlight of the program is a circus school in partnership with Hilario Productions’ Cirque du Jour, a New York-based company that specializes in teaching children real circus skills. Splash Academy also offers activities for cruisers under three and their parents who can enjoy sensory play classes which include baby art featuring “Wee Can Too” organic art products.

All shore excursions for adults and children related to this offer must be pre-booked prior to sailing. Guests can reserve shore excursions using their MyNCL account (www.ncl.com/myncl) for each member of the family online once a new reservation is made. The children and teen rates will automatically be deducted in the shopping cart upon checkout.

To book a family cruise vacation with Norwegian during the “Little Norwegian’s Explore For Free” limited time promotion, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 866-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), or visit www.ncl.com.

*Motorized flight tours, golf, Orlando theme parks and Atlantis in the Bahamas excluded.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

Together they form a dramatic design statement that underscores Oceania Cruises’ commitment to creating experiences that will “inspire and engage our guests,” said Kunal S. Kamlani, Oceania Cruises’ president.

The ship’s magnificent Grand Staircase is a striking focal point. Designed by Lalique, the fabled French glassware firm, it features double-curved staircases and a balcony with balustrades of crystal medallions and scrolled iron. Six crystal pillars rising from the landing enhance the two-story, glass elevator surround. An Italian-made, 1,300-pound chandelier measuring 78 inches tall by 80 inches in diameter adds a dramatic focal point. Its decorative spheres cast a radiant glow that reflects off the staircase and illuminates the reception area.

Each of Riviera’s 625 suites and staterooms are imbued with a warm and smart contemporary look. Veranda and Concierge staterooms – at 282 square feet among the most spacious at sea – feature a defined sitting area and balcony furnished with a chaise lounge, armchair and table. The 124 Penthouse suites measure an industry-leading 420 square feet. The layout includes a living/dining room separate from the sleeping area, walk-in closet and bathrooms with a double vanity.

Oceania Cruises partnered with preeminent American designer Dakota Jackson, who fashioned more than 40 exquisite pieces of furniture and lighting to lend the Vista and Oceania suites the feel of a chic city apartment. Exuding style and innovation, they feature surfaces combining glass, stone, wood and metals together with rich, weighty fabrics such as mohair and silk chenille. Three Owner’s Suites measure more than 2,000 square feet, spanning the beam of the ship, and feature furnishings from the acclaimed Ralph Lauren Home collection.

Though Riviera mirrors her sister ship, Marina, in many ways, she has several distinctive design details that set her apart, including:

The spa deck at the Canyon Ranch Spa Club now features a new thalassotherapy pool as well as expanded changing areas
On Deck 14, ceilings in the Polo Grill and Toscana restaurants have been raised to add to each restaurant’s spacious ambience
In the staterooms, designers added a glass partition to the tub and a hand-held showerhead that can function as second shower.

The ship is also a showcase for more than 100 works by some of Latin America’s most accomplished and admired contemporary artists, a collection personally curated by Frank Del Rio, the line’s founder and chairman and CEO of parent company Prestige Cruise Holdings. Original and highly expressive works by renowned artists from Cuba’s Vanguard Movement, from 1927 to 1950, among many other notable works, are integrated through-out the public areas of Riviera and positioned to provide surprising and delightful touches throughout the ship.

Following a gala christening ceremony and event in Barcelona, the ship’s inaugural schedule begins with a 10-day Maiden Voyage May 16 from Venice to Athens. From May 16 through November 29, 2012, Riviera will offer 12 distinctive itineraries on a total of 20 voyages, calling on ports in France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal and Turkey as well as Israel, Croatia, Cyprus, Montenegro, Morocco and Monaco, with maiden calls in Cephalonia (Argostoli), Motril (Granada) and La Palma in the Canary Islands. Many of the itineraries feature overnight calls, affording an in-depth, enriching destination experience and allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the cuisine, culture and history of that port. Following the Mediterranean sailings, in November Riviera will cross the Atlantic to the Caribbean where she will operate a series of winter cruises.

To learn more about Riviera, contact a travel professional, browse OceaniaCruises.com or call toll-free at 800-531-5658.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

On May 6 Costa Fascinosa is scheduled to depart Venice bound for Slovenia; Trieste,
Italy, and Croatia on a cruise hosting the 19th edition of “Champions of the Sea,” an
annual event honoring Costa Cruises’ travel agent partners.
Costa Fascinosa then departs Venice May 11 on a 10-day inaugural cruise calling at
Greece, Israel and Turkey. For the rest of the 2012 summer season through November,
Costa Fascinosa will operate seven-day cruises from Venice and Bari, Italy, to Greece
and Croatia.

Costa Cruises’ total investment in Costa Fascinosa was 510 million euros (US$671.2
million). Construction of the ship at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard involved the labor of
approximately 3,000 yard workers plus another 7,000 people employed by about 500
contracted suppliers, most of them Italian firms.

Since 1990 Costa Cruises has invested 5.8 billion euros (US$7.6 billion) in work at the
Fincantieri, T. Mariotti and San Giorgio del Porto shipyards, with a total of 14 ships built
or on order, in addition to the refurbishment of ships already in service.
Delivery of Costa Fascinosa takes places just two months after delivery of Costa
neoRomantica, the result of the 90 million euro (US$118.4 million) major refurbishment
of Costa Romantica at the San Giorgio del Porto shipyard in Genoa.

Costa Cruises’ fleet expansion program continues at Fincantieri’s Marghera yard with
construction of a 132,500-ton vessel that will accommodate up to 4,928 guests, making
it the largest Italian cruise ship. The as-yet unnamed ship is scheduled for delivery in
October 2014.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

The Muppets make their debut in a new adventure game. Guests’ own drawings dance with Disney characters. “Paintings” spring to life. Interior staterooms have a porthole view of the sea outside. Animated characters chat with guests. Among the highlights:

“Animation Magic” at Animator’s Palate

Animator’s Palate on the Disney Fantasy brings the magic of Disney animation into the dining room with a new show called “Animation Magic.” The dinner show celebrates the magic of Disney animation and allows families to create and participate in a whole new way.

As guests are seated at their tables, they are invited to draw a character of their own using a simple template on their placemat. Then, just before dinner, house lights dim and a sprinkling of pixie dust illuminates the room.

During dinner, Mickey invites guests to sit back, relax and enjoy a taste of animation as a montage of memorable food-themed moments from Disney and Disney•Pixar films is displayed, set to the show tune “Be Our Guest.” After dinner, Mickey returns for the exciting finale. With a musical crescendo, he works his magic and conjures the guests’ drawings – now fully animated and brought to life – into the onscreen action.

A parade starts as Mickey leads the guests’ drawings in a march across the screens around the dining room. The animation of the drawings becomes increasingly more elaborate, and then the drawings step into scenes from beloved Disney movies and skip, skate and dance side-by-side with characters such as, Mickey Mouse, Jiminy Cricket, Cinderella and Snow White.

At the conclusion of the show, Mickey returns to say “so long” while credits roll on screen showing each guest’s name listed as a guest animator. To commemorate the experience, guests’ drawings are returned to them … with an added touch: a golden seal proclaiming them an Official Disney Animator.

The Themed Entertainment Association awarded Disney Cruise Line the “Ingenious Use of Technology” award for the “Animation Magic” show at Animator’s Palate on the Disney Fantasy.

Muppets Adventure Game

The Muppets are coming to the Disney Fantasy! While playing “The Case of the Stolen Show,” guests take an interactive adventure quest around the ship, uncovering clues via more than a dozen pieces of Enchanted Art and physical “evidence.”

The adventure begins with the cast of Muppets preparing to stage a big performance. But there’s a problem: Kermit’s banjo is missing, Fozzie’s squirting flower has vanished, Gonzo’s crash helmet has gone astray, Animal’s drum sticks have disappeared and the Swedish Chef can’t find his cleaver! All of the props for the big show have been stolen by a cunning thief (or more likely, another Muppet).

Guided by a map and holding a unique game card in front of select pieces of Enchanted Art, guests unveil clues and find missing props. Elsewhere on the ship, guests may check a Muppets message board and find a Muppet-sized stateroom door to discover clues. Their mission is to solve the crime before it’s time to raise the curtain and light the lights on the Muppets’ big show.

“The Case of the Stolen Show” is one of a trio of self-paced, Midship Detective Agency games that may be played through the ship’s Enchanted Art. Each game features several possible endings and multiple randomized events – so each time a guest plays, they have a different adventure.

Enchanted Art

Throughout the Disney Fantasy, more than 20 pieces of Enchanted Art, inspired by classic Disney characters and animations, immerse guests in Disney storytelling in a completely new way.

As guests pause to admire an individual piece of Enchanted Art, it magically comes alive. Some examples of Enchanted Art new to the Disney Fantasy…

• Dual circus art posters featuring Dumbo and Timothy Q. Mouse flying from one frame into the other – a nod to the Disney Fantasy stern characters.

• Walt Disney animating three new clips that spring from his sketch pad featuring the “Fab Five” (Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald and Pluto).

• Fanciful animations of “Alice in Wonderland” inspired by Disney Legend Mary Blair’s art.

• “Pinkie Daisy” inspired by Thomas Lawrence’s painting “Sarah Barrett Moulton: Pinkie.”

While Enchanted Art looks like other hanging art pieces around the ship, it is actually a framed LCD screen that utilizes technology to create special effects. Enchanted Art “recognizes” a guest is present and activates several seconds of animation. Guests may see new and different animation when they visit the Enchanted Art another time.

Living Characters

In Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab youth areas, Disney characters come to life and interact with children in one-of-a-kind experiences…

• Crush, the animated sea turtle from the Disney•Pixar motion picture “Finding Nemo,” and Stitch, the mischievous animated alien from the motion picture “Lilo & Stitch,” appear on a 103-inch plasma screen.

• The characters chat, play and joke with kids in live, unrehearsed, personalized conversations, using sophisticated, voice-activated animation.

Magical Porthole

The Disney Fantasy carries on the spirit of innovation with a cruise industry first for all 150 inside staterooms – a “window” to the world with a real-time view outside the ship…

• High-definition cameras on the exterior of the ship feed video to each Magical Porthole. The view corresponds stateroom location – port or starboard…forward, midship or aft.

• Animated Disney characters may pop by the Magical Porthole, including Peach the starfish from the Disney•Pixar film “Finding Nemo,” Dumbo the flying elephant or even Mickey Mouse.

• All new Magical Porthole animations include a swinging Rapunzel from “Tangled,” a waving Mr. Potato Head from “Toy Story,” and Scuttle and Flounder from “The Little Mermaid” peeking in as they fly by.

Magic PlayFloor

Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab feature a Magic PlayFloor, a cruise- industry first that blends the latest in gaming technology with Disney’s panache for storytelling…

• Located in the main gathering space in both venues, the interactive floor allows children to engage in group activities where their movements control the action.

• The PlayFloor is designed with 16 light pads on the perimeter that detect motion and location and trigger actions. There are 28 monitors integrated with one another to create a grid display 15 feet by 15 feet on the center of the PlayFloor.

• The games are thematically tied to Disney stories and characters – from “Cars” and “Tron” to “Peter Pan” and “The Princess and the Frog.”

• Youth counselors use the Magic PlayFloor during storytelling activities where children fly over the streets of London with Peter Pan, help a frog feast on a bug banquet, leap over lasers with Stitch, race a car like Lightning McQueen and step into the world of Tron.

Skyline

On the Disney Fantasy, adult guests step into a world that’s all their own at Europa – a nighttime entertainment district exclusively for guests 18 and older that features sophisticated bars and lounges inspired by the very best in European travel.

Skyline is a chic bar that provides ever-changing birds-eye views of stunning city skylines. The venue’s nine “windows to the world” are actually 65-inch LCD screens that depict different locales in panorama. Guests glimpse ever-changing views of spectacular cities, such as Paris, London, Barcelona, Florence, Athens, Budapest and St. Petersburg.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent.

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©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

5 April 2012 - Cunard Line today announced its 2013 Voyage Programme, offering an extensive range of sailings across its three ships featuring 106 voyages visiting 99 ports in 35 countries. Highlights include several maiden calls and overnight stays, and multiple departures for its most popular itineraries, including the St. Petersburg & Baltic Explorer, Fjords & Waterfalls and Greek Isles & Mediterranean Treasures.

Cunard brings over 170 years of maritime heritage to the youngest, luxury fleet at sea - flagship Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth - acquainting guests with captivating destinations and the Line's enduring grandeur, glamour and elegance. For those seeking to experience a luxury cruise vacation aboard Cunard, the Line's classic traditions and legendary White Star Service coupled with contemporary and sophisticated on board offerings provide an unmatched ocean travel experience.

Queen Mary 2 will continue to offer her legendary Transatlantic Crossings between New York and Southampton, as well as to Hamburg, while Queen Victoria will spend her full 2013 season sailing Northern Europe, the Mediterranean and Atlantic Isles, Iberia and Morocco, with a new 24-day voyage to the Black Sea and Turkey; and Queen Elizabeth will spend much of her season travelling from Southampton to Northern Europe and sailing the Mediterranean from Venice, Athens, Rome and Southampton.

"In addition to our superb White Star Service and glamourous on board experiences, Cunard is famed for its extensive itineraries with visits to the world's most stunning ports of call," said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. "We've expanded next year's programme to include multiple departures for our most popular itineraries, plus new ports of call and overnight stays to satisfy customer demand for these favoured regions."

Queen Mary 2
The grandest ocean liner at sea, Queen Mary 2, will sail a total of 17 Transatlantic Crossings between New York and Southampton from May 2013 to January 2014. In addition to the flagship's popular seven-day Transatlantic voyages, Cunard introduces two eight-day Crossings, providing guests the most of Queen Mary 2's exceptional travel experience and more time to enjoy the unique sense of timelessness that only a Transatlantic voyage can provide. Extended nine- and ten-day Crossings between New York and Hamburg will also be available.

These longer Crossings offer additional time to explore the ship's extensive on board amenities and activities, including lectures through the award-winning Cunard Insights programme; stargazing in the only planetarium at sea; white-gloved afternoon tea served in the Queens Room or a spin around the dance floor during a Royal Nights themed ball; taking in a performance or workshop by members of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art; or perusing the 8,000 volumes in the largest library at sea.

Guests travelling select European itineraries also may opt to combine their voyage with Transatlantic Crossings on either side, creating a "Grand" voyage.

Queen Mary 2 will also continue ventures to Northern Europe, plus roundtrip New York departures to New England and Canada - featuring an overnight stay in Quebec - and a visit to the Caribbean just in time for the holidays. Maiden calls for Queen Mary 2 include Andalsnes, Norway and Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda.

Fares for the following voyages start from:
* Seven-day Transatlantic Crossings: $1199
* Eight-day Transatlantic Crossings: $1499
* Seven-day Fjords & Waterfalls: $1699
* Five-day 4th of July Getaway: $1349
* 12-day Autumn Colours (New England/Canada): $2499
* 15-day Northern Highlights: $2999
* 21-day Grand Fjords & Waterfalls: $4399

Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria will sail a range of voyages from Southampton to Northern Europe, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Isles, Iberia and Morocco, including the popular seven-day Fjords & Waterfalls itinerary (Norway) and the St. Petersburg & Baltic Explorer voyage, with an overnight stay in St. Petersburg.

Additionally, Queen Victoria will sail a series of Mediterranean voyages ranging from 12 to 17 days and, new for 2013, a 24-day voyage to the Black Sea and Turkey. Maiden ports include Agadir, Morocco; Isafjordur, Iceland; Palau-Costa Smeralda, Italy; Torshavn, Faroe Islands; and Warnemunde, Germany. Overnight stays include St. Petersburg, Istanbul and Madeira (two nights).

Fares for the following voyages start from:
* 10-day Iberia & Moroccan Highlights: $1499
* 14-day Mediterranean Medley: $3099
* 14-day St. Petersburg & Baltic Explorer: $2999
* 15-day Geysers & Glaciers: $3199
* 24-day Black Sea & Turkish Splendours: $5399

Guests sailing aboard Queen Victoria enjoy many distinctive features including the first private theatre boxes at sea (Royal Court Theatre); the classic art of fencing; Cunardia, a museum display of historic artifacts; and nods to HM Queen Victoria including original etchings drawn by The Queen and Prince Albert.

Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth's 2013 schedule will take her to Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords, the British Isles and the Baltic Sea. Later in the season, she will reposition to the Mediterranean and embark on eight voyages from Venice, Rome (Civitavecchia) and Athens (Piraeus). These popular itineraries again include the Greek Isles and Holy Land voyages, and maiden ports include Akureyri, Iceland; Goteborg, Sweden; Isafjordur, Iceland; Izmir, Turkey; Marseilles, France; Reykjavik, Iceland; Salerno, Italy; Split, Croatia; Valencia, Spain; and Warnemunde, Germany. Overnight calls include St. Petersburg, Istanbul, Copenhagen and Venice.

Fares for the following voyages start from:
* 7-day Fjords & Waterfalls: $1399
* 12-day Greek Isles & Holy Land Explorer: $1799
* 12-day Mediterranean Odyssey: $1799
* 12-day Adriatic & Black Sea Explorer: $2499
* 14-day St. Petersburg & Baltic Explorer: $2799

Queen Elizabeth's grand art deco interiors and unique art works, which pay homage to both the original Queen Elizabeth and Great Britain's Royal Family, continue to fascinate and delight guests who sail aboard the Line's newest Cunarder. The ship's Grand Lobby prominently displays the 18.5 ft. marquetry piece of the original Queen Elizabeth created by David Linley, only nephew of Her Majesty The Queen; and a specially commissioned portrait of The Queen, created by artist Isobel Peachey particularly for Queen Elizabeth's 2010 debut.

All referenced fares are per person, based on double occupancy.

Reservations for Cunard's 2013 voyages will open for booking on 24 April 2012.

See Cunard's 2013 Voyages Preview Calendar online at Cunard.com/2013voyages.

For more information and to book a voyage, consult your Travel Agent, call toll-free 1-800-728-6723, or go to www.cunard.com.

©2012 Cruise Talk Central. All Rights Reserved.

Newest Disney cruise ship launches with entertainment, activities and dining all created for longer itineraries

CELEBRATION, Fla. – The Disney Fantasy is now a cruise vacation reality.

As the fourth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet launches into service, it brings Disney fantasies to life with entertainment, activities and dining experiences specifically designed with seven-night cruises in mind.

Given the longer itineraries planned for this ship, the creative team had an opportunity to produce an extended portfolio of Disney offerings. The Disney Fantasy continues the innovations that Disney Cruise Line has brought to the cruise industry with:

• Disney Fantasy includes the premiere of two new Broadway-style stage spectaculars in the lavish Walt Disney Theatre. The signature show “Disney Wishes” is a 45-minute musical journey about three best friends who discover the secret to being a grown-up is staying connected to their inner child. “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular” is a fast-paced musical comedy where Aladdin, the “street rat” of Agrabah, meets a Genie who grants him three wishes, battles the evil Jafar and falls in love with Princess Jasmine.
• The princess and pirate fantasies of young guests come to life with Disney Cruise Line debut of the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and The Pirates League. Here, young girls can transform into their favorite princess, creating just the look for dinner at the elegant Royal Court restaurant. When the popular deck party “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean” is on the evening schedule, young sailors can unleash their inner buccaneer with a Pirates League treatment.
• Nightlife takes a European twist with Europa – an entertainment district of high-energy, sophisticated clubs and lounges inspired by the night spots of Italy, France, Ireland and London. Europa is a continent of adult nighttime fun without borders. La Piazza is a lounge that draws inspiration from stylish Italian plazas. Skyline is a chic bar that provides ever-changing birds-eye views of European cityscapes. O’Gills Pub is a rollicking Irish bar and Ooh La La is an elegant French champagne bar. The Tube transports guests to a vibrant metropolitan club reminiscent of swinging London.
• Families find splashing fun in AquaLab – a brand-new water play area on the upper deck. This fanciful 1,800-square-foot space features a variety of water “experiments,” created by Donald Duck’s nephews, designed to drench, soak and saturate guests with pop jets, geysers, bubblers, falling water, squirting walls and more.

New Fantasy twists on “Dreamy” fun

The Disney Fantasy also puts some new twists on fun familiar to guests who have cruised on the Disney Cruise Line sister ship, Disney Dream:

• The Muppets are now aboard to the Disney Fantasy, starring in an interactive adventure quest. While playing “The Case of the Stolen Show,” guests move around the ship, uncovering clues to discover the culprit behind the disappearance of Kermit’s banjo, Fozzie’s squirting flower, Gonzo’s crash helmet, Animal’s drum sticks and the Swedish Chef’s cleaver. It’s a new spin on the self-paced game concept introduced on Disney Dream that “hides” the clues in pieces of Enchanted Art – wall art that magically animates when guests approach. “The Case of the Stolen Show” is one of a trio of Midship Detective Agency games that may be played through the ship’s Enchanted Art.
• While dinner may be served twice at popular Animator’s Palate, the show accompanying the meal is different each evening guests visit. All new aboard Disney Fantasy, guests’ cartoon creativity comes alive during dinner in a show called “Animation Magic.” On another evening, the room is immersed in a vivid undersea environment and Crush makes a special appearance, swimming around the restaurant and engaging in live impromptu interactions with guests.

A “sister ship,” but …

The Disney Fantasy is a sister ship to the Disney Dream which launched in early 2011. Both cruise ships are 1,115-feet in length, with 1,250 staterooms and suites and 4,000-passenger capacity. And both are warm and welcoming, elegant and richly detailed – harkening to the golden age of ocean-liner travel of the 1930s.

Guests will recognize differences the moment they enter the Disney Fantasy’s atrium lobby. Its three-deck expanse is graced with sophisticated Art Nouveau-inspired details and patterns in hues of vibrant blue, green, pink and gold.

From the ceiling hangs a cascading chandelier, more than 22 feet diameter at the ceiling and descending 13 feet, this one-of-a-kind work of art evokes green and blue peacock hues in stained glass and crystal beads.

As with each Disney Cruise Line ship that launched before it, the Disney Fantasy has an atrium lobby statue celebrating a classic Disney character. Other Disney ships feature Mickey at the helm, Ariel sitting pretty and Admiral Donald striking a pose. The pièce de résistance of the Fantasy lobby is Mademoiselle Minnie Mouse. Inspired by travel of the 1920s and 1930s, Minnie is cast in bronze and dressed in vintage fashion with a parasol and steamer luggage at her side – posed for keepsake pictures with guests.

Beyond the lobby …

There are places and experiences, dining and entertainment concepts that are hallmarks of the Disney Cruise Line experience. Here’s more of what’s in store during a Disney Fantasy cruise:

H2Ohhh! - When the Disney Dream launched, it boasted the AquaDuck, first water coaster at sea. A 765-foot long, twisting-and-turning scream machine, the get-wet attraction has been a huge hit with guests. Aboard the Disney Fantasy, the AquaDuck is joined by AquaLab, a water area where families can play among pop jets, geysers and bubblers. There also are separate pools for children, families and adults – plus a special splash-and-play area for little ones.

Something for All Ages - Disney Fantasy continues the Disney Cruise Line tradition of special, fun-filled clubs, labs and cafes for guests of all ages – Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab for young children (ages 3-10), Edge for tweens (ages 11-13), Vibe for teens (ages 14-17) and Cove Café for adults – plus the family club D Lounge and It’s a Small World Nursery. In all the youth and family areas, there are activities and games supervised by crew members. In addition, Edge and Vibe are rendezvous spots for age-group games, quests and tours that take tweens and teens on adventures throughout the ship.

Fun and games - At Goofy’s Sports Deck, the nine-hole, Disney-themed miniature golf course isn’t “just plain Goofy.” It also stars Goofy’s son, Max. The interactive holes emphasize various golfing lessons – but, of course, with goofy twists. There are simulators that provide a variety of state-of-the-art virtual sports-gaming experiences, ping pong and foosball tables, and a basketball court that can be configured into mini-soccer or volleyball court. For adults, the fitness center in Senses Spa is well-appointed with state-of-the-art cardio equipment and weight machines, and offers personal training sessions and instructional classes in yoga, Pilates, aerobics and more.

Pampering and relaxation - Senses Spa & Salon offers therapeutic and beautifying personal care services for men and women in a retreat spanning two decks. It offers spa treatments, massages, body wraps, facials, aromatherapy, manicures, pedicures as well as a rainforest- themed aromatherapy steam room and sauna. While most of Senses Spa & Salon is for adult guests 18 and older, Chill Spa – a separate spa for teens offers a wide variety of spa services and treatments, including facials, manicures, scrubs and more.

Family dining - With “rotational dining” serving up a changing menu of magical restaurants and different cuisines, dinnertime is an adventure unto itself. Royal Court, an exquisite dining room fit for a princess, and Animator’s Palate with its two different shows are just two of the venues that guests experience. While the restaurant theme and menu may change every night, servers stay with each family throughout the voyage, to provide personalized service.

Adult dining - Adult couples and groups can reserve a dinnertime at two adult-exclusive restaurants – Palo, specializing in Northern Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist, and Remy, an upscale and romantic dining experience serving French-inspired cuisine. Both restaurants come with stunning ocean views and a more formal dress code befitting the ambiance.

Shows and deck parties - The staged entertainment in the lavish Walt Disney Theatre are just part of the entertainment offerings on the Disney Fantasy. A highlight of each cruise is the “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean” deck party and the fireworks spectacular “Buccaneer Blast,” choreographed to a dramatic musical score from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies. There are also movies galore, both on deck and in the Buena Vista Theatre, a cinema with plush stadium-style seats that screens first-run movies and digital 3-D films.

Techno-wizardry -On Disney Fantasy, reality includes jaw-dropping experiences resulting from cutting-edge technology – whether it’s the young kids at Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab participating in fun and games on a huge, dynamic interactive floor alive with sights and sounds … or the family sitting together at a live performance enhanced by over-the-top effects … or the family settling down in an inside stateroom with a real-time view of the sea passing by outside via a “magical porthole.”

The Disney Fantasy sails out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries – alternating eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel). Special Eastern Caribbean sailings in November and December 2012 stop at St. Thomas and San Juan, Puerto Rico. All Disney Fantasy itineraries include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Rates for the seven-night Caribbean cruise itineraries on the Disney Fantasy start at $959 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. All pricing reflects a category 11C standard inside stateroom, Government Taxes and Fees not included.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent.

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