CLIA UK & Ireland Monthly Newsletter Edition 19

Edition 19 - November 2014

Membership News Raphael von Heereman appointed to become new CLIA Europe Secretary General as from 15 February 2015 CLIA Europe, the association representing Europe’s multibillion-euro cruise industry, has today announced that Raphael von Heereman will be its new Secretary General as from February 2015.

Dr von Heereman is a seasoned airline and travel executive, bringing more than 25 years of international experience to the role, which he has gained from the airline industry, having worked for several airlines. He is due to take up his new position in Brussels as CLIA Europe Secretary General in February 2015, following the long-planned departure of current Secretary General Robert Ashdown.

Speaking about Mr Ashdown’s departure, CLIA’s President & CEO Christine Duffy said: “I wish to express the industry’s deep gratitude to Rob Ashdown forhaving successfully transitioned the European cruise industry representation across Europe into a network of independent, but unified, associations working collectively under the leadership of CLIA Europe.. We will greatly miss Rob’s exemplary representation, dedication and commitment to the cruise industry, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours. We are also grateful for his agreement to work alongside his successor in early 2015 so as to ensure a seamless transition.”

Talking about Dr von Heereman’s appointment, Christine Duffy said: “I am delighted that Raphael von Heereman has agreed to become CLIA Europe’s next Secretary General. Having examined many candidates over the last months, I have no doubt that he has the right set of experience and skills to take the association to the next level. Having worked as industry representative before the European Commission and European Parliament, Mr. von Heereman is deeply familiar with Brussels and the EU policy arena. Also, resulting from the different jobs that he has held within the travel industry, includingvarious positions with airline associations, Dr von Heereman is therefore well versed in the trade associations business. We are confident that these two skill-sets coupled with his experience, strong commercial skills and technical know-how will allow him to quickly transition into CLIA Europe and its activities.”

Prior to joining CLIA Europe, Dr von Heereman worked for Lufthansa, TUIfly and Qatar Airways, where he held the position of Vice President Aero political and Regulatory Affairs.

Three of a Kind: Ovation of the Seas To Join Quantum Class as Third Smartship On the cusp of delivering the first in a new generation of technologically advanced cruise ships Royal Caribbean International marked an important milestone today as the first piece of steel was cut marking the official construction start on the third Quantum class ship.

The steel cutting for Ovation of the Seas, scheduled to be delivered in the autumn of 2016, took place at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, where Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and now Ovation of the Seas are being built.

The groundbreaking Quantum class ships will debut new unprecedented features, such as dancing Roboscreens in the unique Two70 entertainment venue; robotic bartenders in Bionic Bar; RipCord by iFLY, the first skydiving experience at sea; the North Star, an engineering marvel that transports guests more than 300 feet above the ocean; transformative venues, such as Sea-Plex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; and the cruise line’s largest and most advanced staterooms ever, including the industry’s first-ever Virtual Balcony staterooms, which offer expansive, real-time views of the ocean and exciting destinations for interior staterooms.

gross registered tonnes, carry 4,180 guests at double occupancy and feature 2,090 staterooms.

The Quantum class will debut in autumn 2014 with Quantum of the Seas sailing from New York followed by her sister-ship Anthem of the Seas in spring 2015 sailing from Southampton in the UK. Quantum ships span 16 decks, encompass 167,800

More information on the Quantum class ships is available at http://www.royalcaribbean.co.uk/QuantumoftheSeas.

For more information on Royal Caribbean International visit http://www.royalcaribbeanpresscenter.com/login/

We Will Rock You: Queen’s Smash Hit Musical Makes Waves On Royal Caribbean International’s Anthem of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International is once again shaking things up on the high seas. The first cruise line to feature fully licensed, Tony Award-winning, Broadway productions has today announced that guests onboard the highly-anticipated Anthem of the Seas will party to We Will Rock You – the smash hit musical featuring the greatest hits of legendary British rock group, Queen – when the ship sails from Southampton (UK) in April 2015.

Written by British comedian Ben Elton, the awardwinning show boasts a score of Queen tunes such as “Another One Bites the Dust,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “We Are the Champions,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and of course, “We Will Rock You.” “On our new Quantum-class ships, guests can expect an entertainment experience that transcends anything they’ve ever seen before, and We Will Rock You is no exception,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Executive Vice President, Operations, Royal Caribbean International. “We’re thrilled to bring the timeless rock ballads of Queen to our most appropriately named ship.”

Built around 24 of Queen’s greatest hits, We Will Rock You tells the story of a group of Bohemians who struggle to restore the free exchange of thought, fashion and live music in a distant future where everyone dresses, thinks and does the same. Musical instruments and composers are forbidden, and rock music is all but unknown. We Will Rock You has now been seen in local productions in 17 countries, playing to an audience of more than 15 million people.

As part of Royal Caribbean’s ‘Broadway at Sea’ offerings, guests of the cruise line can take in performances featuring the storytelling of ABBA’s songs in MAMMA MIA! on Quantum of the Seas, the 60’s-inspired bebop of Hairspray and Cats on Oasis of the Seas, the jazz-infused score of Chicago: The Musical on Allure of the Seas, the toe-tapping Saturday Night Fever on Liberty of the Seas, and We Will Rock You on the new Anthem of the Seas.

Additionally, guests sailing on the cruise line’s Adventure of the Seas will be able to experience a limited time engagement of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Tell Me on a Sunday, running through until November 2, 2014.

Anthem of the Seas will introduce a new set of first-at-sea onboard experiences, such as Ripcord by iFLY, a heart-pounding skydiving experience; North Star, a thrilling adventure that transports guests more than 300 feet in the air on a breath-taking journey; cuttingedge transformative venues including SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; and the cruise line’s largest and most advanced staterooms ever.

Anthem of the Seas will span 18 decks, encompassing 167,800 gross registered tons, carry 4,180 guests at double occupancy and feature 2,090 staterooms. Anthem of the Seas will debut in Southampton, U.K. in April 2015 sailing Mediterranean itineraries.

More information on Quantum class is available at www.RoyalCaribbean.com/QuantumoftheSeas

Strictly star Artem Chigvintsev joins Holland America Line’s ‘Dancing with the Stars: At Sea’ themed cruises

Holland America Line has announced that Strictly Coming Dancing professional Artem Chigvintsev will be joining two of the line’s “Dancing with the Stars: At Sea” themed cruises at the end of this year.

Currently starring in the US version of the show, “Dancing with the Stars,” the Strictly heartthrob will join ms Westerdam for two dance themed Caribbean cruises, departing 29 November and 6 December 2014.

Each “Dancing with the Stars: At Sea” themed cruise features guest performances from the professional dancers and stars, who dazzle the audience with routines from the television show. Additional events include dance lessons with the ship’s professional dancers, a special fashion show featuring glamorous show costumes and a chance to meet the dance pros and celebrities, ask questions and take photos with them.

Fans of Artem Chigvintsev can still join him onboard these two Holland America Line cruises: Cruise with Artem – seven night Caribbean cruise Departing from Fort Lauderdale on 6 December 2014, the seven night cruise onboard MS Westerdam will call at HAL’s award-wining private island, Half Moon Cay (Bahamas), St Thomas (U.S.V.I), San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Grand Turk (Turks and Caicos) before returning to Fort Lauderdale. This cruise starts from £1,009 per person, based on two sharing an inside cabin and including return flights from London, one night’s pre-cruise hotel stay and transfers.

The 29 November 2014 cruise starts from £1,029 per person, and swaps the St Thomas port call with a visit to St Maarten. On each cruise, as well as the dancing, guests will enjoy experiences such as steel drum performances and classes, cooking demonstrations of Caribbean dishes, and Caribbean rum tastings as part of Holland America Line’s “On Location” programme. The itinerary sets the scene for guests to indulge in localised experiences that make time on board as enriching as visiting the ports of call through lectures, demonstrations and performances.

For more information or to book, visit www.hollandamerica.com or call 0843 374 2300

SAVE THE DATE

THE CLIA UK & IRELAND

Consumer & Travel Law Update Thursday 15 January 2015 | London, Venue TBC PLEASE SAVE THE DATE & FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Augustus Lonsdale alonsdale@cruising.org

Avalon Waterways Offers New Opera and Author Themed Cruises for 2015 Avalon Waterways has expanded the choice of its special interest departures for 2015 to meet the increasing demand for themed holidays. Newly introduced is an Opera Cruise (15 July departure) and an Author’s Cruise (9 August departure). Both are available on Avalon’s popular 13 day ‘Blue Danube Discovery’ cruise.

Avalon’s first opera themed cruise features four emerging stars from Canada’s Calgary Opera with nightly entertainment including opera-themed talks and performances by soprano Natalie Fannan, mezzo soprano Cassandra Warner, tenor Derek Johnson and bassbaritone Tyler Fitzgerald.

The author themed cruise will be accompanied by Patricia Schultz, world-renowned author of the international bestseller ‘1,000 Places to See Before you Die’. Patricia will be on board to give guests a personal insight into writing and to discuss the most impressive, must-see destinations around the world.

The 13 day ‘Blue Danube Discovery’ tour and cruise includes a two night city stay in Budapest, a seven night deluxe cruise onboard one of the newest Suite Ships ,Avalon Impression as well as a three night city stay in Prague. Cruise highlights include Vienna’s famous historical sights and the medieval towns of Durnstein, Melk and Regensburg. Optional day trips are offered to Salzburg and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic.

The new themed cruises are in addition to the existing choice which includes special departures for golf, beer tasting, wellness, jazz and classical music, culinary, wine appreciation, arts and impressionist art, European history, Jewish heritage and Christmas markets.

P&O Cruises chooses award-winning British sparkling wine for Britannia launch When the bottle smashes against the side of Britain’s biggest cruise ship next March, P&O Cruises will be upholding its celebration of all things British by selecting sparkling wine from the Wiston Estate Winery. Four nebuchadnezzars of the quintessentially British winery’s Brut NV will be used for the naming ceremony itself while thousands of bottles of Brut NV and Rosé, Vintage 2011 will be enjoyed during the various inaugural events that are scheduled to take place around the launch.

P&O Cruises called on its wine expert Olly Smith to help choose the perfect British sparkling wine to celebrate the launch of the biggest – and most glamorous – ship to be built for the UK market. Olly Smith commented: “I selected Wiston Estate to launch Britannia thanks to its impeccable quality and for its poise between modernity and tradition. Wiston stands for passion and pride as a technically masterful English sparkling wine producer since 2006 with heritage as a farming estate stretching back to 1743. But the main reason is because its bubbly is irresistibly delicious!”

P&O Cruises marketing director Christopher Edgington added: “When it came to selecting a wine for Britannia’s naming ceremony and inaugural season, we wanted to keep in with our British positioning and select an English sparkling wine. The Wiston Estate Winery immediately stood out as a British brand with a proud history, very much in our own mould. The fact that the wines came with a glowing endorsement from our very own grape guru Olly Smith did their prospects no harm either!”

The Wiston Estate Brut NV is a dry, medium-bodied Chardonnay/Pinot blend combining delicate primary fruits, zest and a characterful richness, while the award-winning Wiston Estate Rosé, Vintage 2011 is incredibly moreish and surprising for its structural precision and textural finesse.

Pip, Harry and Richard Goring of the Wiston Estate said: “Our family has been the custodian of the Wiston Estate in West Sussex for hundreds of years. However, it is only recently that we have realised our long-held dream to make sparkling wine here in the South Downs. We are delighted that Wiston Estate Brut has been chosen to name Britannia on the historic occasion of her launch next March 2015.”

Britannia’s maiden season will see the ship sail from Southampton to the Mediterranean, Norwegian Fjords, Canary Islands and the Baltic Sea, as well as offering a range of short breaks and a special round Britain cruise. The ship will then transfer to the Caribbean for the winter season sailing a range of 15 night fly/cruise itineraries from Barbados.

iPad winners cruise to victory!

The River Cruise Line is proud to announce the two lucky travel agents who’ve won iPad minis in their September competition.

Dawn Tompkins from Thomson Sittingbourne branch is the Midlands & South area winner and Karen Colley from Wordsworth Travel in Barnsley is the North & Scotland area winner.

Agents across the country were invited to join in the competition.

All they had to do was email their contact details, ABTA number and the booking reference every time they made a River Cruise Line booking for 2015 during the month of September.

The winners were picked at random. Sarah Hughes, the Agency Sales Manager Midlands & South broke the good news to Dawn Tompkins from Thomson Sittingbourne branch. Dawn says it couldn’t have come at a better time: “I was feeling really miserable because I’d just failed my driving test. Then the phone went and it was Sarah calling to tell me I’d won a mini ipad. Well, I bounced off my chair and screamed my head off with happiness! It made my day, my month – it was just the kind of good news I needed. The River Cruise Line is very popular with our customers because they offer cruises at excellent price points, and after winning this mini ipad they are very popular with me too!”

Sarah had recently held a small instore event at Thomson’s in Sittingbourne was thrilled to be going back there to hand over the prize to Dawn.

Meanwhile Clare Smith the River Cruise Line Agency Sales Manager for the North & Scotland was on her way to Barnsley to surprise Karen Colley from Wordsworth Travel: “I was thrilled to win the ipad mini because I never win anything!

In fact I was so happy when Clare came to give me the prize that I didn’t mind having a little photo shoot - I’m normally quite camera shy. It was lovely to see Clare because we work very closely with the River Cruise Line at Wordsworth Travel and last year we took over 40 bookings with them. Their varied itineraries and great prices really appeal to our customers across the board.”

The River Cruise Line run regular competitions for travel agent staff to thank them for their support and there are some fabulous prizes on offer.

But to win you have to be registered, so go to the “Selling river cruises” website http://sellingrivercruises.com/ to see how to register and then you can book directly on line for the River Cruise Line.

Travel Agents can also book all the Diamond Holidays brands including: • UK coach holidays • Europe coach holidays • Diamond Rail Holidays For these please contact Carolyn Broughton on 01858 435668 or email Carolynbroughton@diamondhols.co.uk who can set Travel Agents up to be able to take bookings.

Travel Agents wanting to know more about selling River Cruise Line holidays can contact the Agency Sales Managers for their area: Sarah Hughes Mobile: 07760 885451 Email: sarahhughes@diamondhols.co.uk Agency Sales Manager for the Midlands and the South Clare Smith Mobile: 07824 337290 Email: claresmith@diamondhols.co.uk Agency Sales Manager for the North and Scotland

Christmas do? – Try A Cruise Ship

Not made up your mind for the Christmas do or party then Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) www.cruiseandmaritime. com has three alternative dates to the usual offerings. You are invited to walk up the gangway and board the elegant country house style ship Marco Polo at the London Cruise Terminal in Tilbury.

You can take a stroll around the ship before enjoying a delicious four course lunch or dinner followed by a great show. Welcome cocktails and wine with the meal are included. If you choose to go for dinner there is also an option to stay overnight on board and have breakfast before leaving the ship. The three dates available for a ‘Welcome Aboard Marco Polo’ festive event are Friday 12 December, Saturday 13 December, Sunday 14 December and Thursday 18 December. Lunch costs £49pp and dinner from £79pp with an option to stay overnight* after dinner on board for just £10pp including breakfast Marketing Manager, Mike Hall at CMV said “As well as a welcome party alternative for a family, club or business this is a wonderful opportunity to have a look around the ship and get a feel of what life is like on board. As it will be the festive season you can expect Marco Polo to be ready to celebrate in some style and be in a party mood.” *Overnight stay is based on 2 people sharing a standard twin cabin.

Cabin upgrades available from £20pp.

Please note that Marco Polo is an adult only ship. Bookings must be made online, visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com Car Parking is available at the Cruise Terminal for a small charge (£2 for Lunch and £5 for Dinner and Overnight). Tilbury Town station is a 20 minute walk or there are bus connections on Fridays and Saturdays or taxi service to the Terminal. The Gravesend - Tilbury passenger ferry crosses the Thames and stops by the ship.

EUROPA 2: New Mountain Bike Tours with Guide

Due to great demand, the EUROPA 2, has created a new offering: mountain bike excursions with a dedicated bike guide. Guests can discover the surroundings of select ports in the company of a guide while using the ship’s own mountain bikes. Guests can opt for either an easy tour at a comfortable speed, or a more fast-paced off-road experience over rougher terrain.

Business booms for UK cruise port – World’s most innovative cruise ship makes UK debut On October 15th, the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ship, Oasis of the Seas, made its first ever call into the UK sailing into the port of Southampton. Longer than London’s The Shard is tall, Oasis of the Seas accommodates over 5,400 guests and is operated by 2,394 crew.

At 40 per cent larger than any other cruise ship to ever dock in the UK, the event marks a major step change in fleet capacity and deployment for owners Royal Caribbean International. By 2016 the leisure business that has delivered holiday firsts such as ice skating, rock climbing and zip lining at sea will be the largest cruise line in the world in terms of fleet capacity.

Currently with five new ships on order – including two more of the same scale and features as Oasis of the Seas – Royal Caribbean International will deliver a 6.9 percent capacity increase to the global cruise holiday market in 2015 alone. This includes a new ship launching in Southampton in 2015, the 4,180-guest Anthem of the Seas, offering cruises throughout the Mediterranean from late spring until late autumn 2015.

2015 also sees Royal Caribbean International significantly boost its presence throughout Europe. Allure of the Seas – a sister ship to the worlds’ largest and with the same features – will be based during the peak summer season in Barcelona. Both Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas offer holidaymakers an outdoor park with real plants and trees, an 82-foot long zip wire, the Rising Tide elevating bar and the Aquatheater high-diving performance venue as well as much more.

Dominic Paul, senior vice president, international, Royal Caribbean International, explains: “Today is an important milestone in the global expansion of the Royal Caribbean International business. We are marking a significant step change in our investment into growth markets around the world. The welcome of Oasis of the Seas to Southampton is followed next year by sistership Allure of the Seas sailing outside the Caribbean for the first time during a summer 2015 season based in Barcelona. These investments highlight our commitment to deliver the most innovative and architecturally advanced ships to Europe and are part of our ongoing effort to redefine the cruise sector.”

“Easy-going”, “Active and highenergy”, and “Active lite” are the three offerings with the new mountain bike tours on the EUROPA 2. Beginners can enjoy the scenery and take in points of interest during a leisurely ride on a flat route. By contrast, experienced cyclists have the opportunity to take part in challenging rides over uneven terrain that frequently includes hills and inclines.

The 14 hardtail mountain bikes are available in various sizes. All tours are between 4-5 hours in length and cost €59. Tours will be offered in selected ports based on the local conditions. The bike guide will provide personal advice and be part of all bike excursions. Guests will be able to book a bike tour after a quick fitness check on-board.

Reservations: Please call UK free phone number: 0800 542 0858; visit: www.luxuryatsea.co.uk; www.hl-cruises.com

Just 16 days after Oasis of the Seas calls into Southampton on 15 October 2014, a new ship currently still under construction and dubbed the world’s most technologically advanced holiday resort, Quantum of the Seas, will showcase in Southampton. The first in a series of new ships coming from Royal Caribbean International over the next few years, Quantum of the Seas will sail from Southampton to New York on 2 November 2014. In 2015 Quantum of the Seas will become the newest ship from a global cruise line to ever be based in the Far East when it offers cruises from Shanghai starting in June 2015.

Dominic Paul continues: “At Royal Caribbean International we are leading the way as the first global cruise line to base a strategically important new ship in China. Not only are we expanding our presence in Europe and the Far East, but we are challenging the expectations of travellers when it comes to holidays at sea. Our extensive investments into new ships, new technology and new ideas are increasing the appeal of the cruise sector around the world.”

In a further exciting development for the UK cruise port of Southampton a sister ship to Quantum of the Seas, called Anthem of the Seas, will arrive in the Hampshire city in April 2015. Both ships – the Quantum-class - give holidaymakers a glimpse into what the future of holidays look like. Anthem of the Seas delivers holidaymakers experiences such as skydiving, dodgems and even robot bar tenders all at sea. Offering a series of Mediterranean cruises during summer 2015 from Southampton, Anthem of the Seas is the most technologically advanced holiday resort in the world.

The cruise industry is big business for the port of Southampton and the surrounding areas.

Independent research from Cruise Southampton states that each guest embarking on a cruise in the port spends an average of £90 per person in the surrounding area in shops, hotels, restaurants and local attractions. This means that on 15 October 2014 when Oasis of the Seas calls into Southampton for one day, and over 5,400 guests embark the ship for a transatlantic cruise, almost £0.5 million in knock-on economic benefits are delivered to the region.

The port of Southampton is Europe’s largest embarkation and debarkation port in the cruise sector. According to figures from CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) the UK remains the largest cruise market in Europe, and Brits make up 12 percent of all worldwide cruisers. Embarkations from UK ports grew by 10 per cent in 2013 compared to 2012. The UK cruise industry has now grown to 1.7 million cruisers – almost six times the population of Southampton.

For more information please visit www.royalcaribbean.co.uk.

Norwegian Escape to feature Miami’s legendary bar Tobacco Road In celebration of Norwegian Escape’s one year to launch milestone, Norwegian Cruise Line today announced that Miami’s oldest and most legendary bar, Tobacco Road, will find a new home aboard the line’s newest and largest ship.

The acclaimed establishment, which was issued Miami’s very first alcohol license, is closing its original location this week after 102 years in business. In an effort to preserve the tradition of this iconic Miami landmark, Tobacco Road and Norwegian Cruise Line partnered to bring the Tobacco Road experience on board Norwegian Escape, which will begin sailing from Miami in November 2015.

“We are thrilled to be able to preserve a piece of Miami’s history and provide this famous Miami institution a home at sea on-board the incredible new Norwegian Escape,” said Kevin Sheehan, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.

Located within 678 Ocean Place, the new location of the celebrated tavern will incorporate elements of the original Tobacco Road, including the iconic neon sign, memorabilia and photographs that will showcase the history of Miami through the lens of events and happenings at the bar over the past century.

In addition to favourite beers and spirits, Tobacco Road Bar on board Norwegian Escape will also feature a selection of cocktails created by Tobacco Road’s resident mixologist, Leo Holtzman. The delicious drinks from Holtzman’s Cocktail Collection will include favourites like the Chili Mule, featuring ginger puree, Cointreau and vodka topped with a sliced seranno pepper; and the Gateway, a rum-based drink that incorporates yuzu juice, elderflower syrup and Prosecco.

Norwegian Escape will begin weekly seven-night cruises from her year-round homeport of Miami to the Eastern Caribbean on 14 November 2015. The ship will be the largest to home port year-round in Miami, carrying 4,200 guests to tropical Caribbean destinations including St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship’s signature hull artwork is designed by marine wildlife artist and champion of ocean conservation, Guy Harvey, which features an underwater scene of marine wildlife.

Accommodation includes the company’s signature luxury ship–within-a-ship complex: The Haven by Norwegian; along with Studios, designed and priced for solo travellers; and many options for families, multi-generational groups, spa enthusiasts and more.

For more information on Norwegian Escape, visit www.escape.ncl.co.uk. To book a cruise on Norwegian Escape, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian on 0845 201 8900, or visit www.ncl.co.uk.

Port Canaveral Welcomes Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas

Starting November 15, 2014, Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas begins homeporting at Port Canaveral through March 2015, offering a new 9-night itinerary that reaches further into the southern Caribbean with stops in Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, and Haiti.

Other itinerary options include 4-, 5-, and 8-night Caribbean cruises.

“We are pleased that Royal Caribbean continues to provide innovative ships and diverse itineraries for our community, Orlando and other central Florida residents and visitors,” said Port Canaveral CEO John E. Walsh. “We look forward to welcoming Royal Caribbean’s fleet into its new home at Cruise Terminal 1 next month when our state-of-the-art facility opens.”

Canaveral also is homeport for Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas.

Princess Cruises To Mark 50th Anniversary With On Board Celebrations

Princess Cruises has announced that commemorative food, drink and entertainment will be offered on its ships to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Throughout 2015, which marks five decades since the line’s first sailing, all cruises will include: • A souvenir menu in the main dining rooms for one night, which will feature dishes including duck terrine with apricot preserves and fillet of turbot with whipped truffle butter • Two new desserts – a chocolate raspberry mousse with vanilla crème brûlée & crunchy shortbread and chocolate pistachio dome with almond & pistachio nougatine. Both have been created by the line’s master chocolatier, Norman Love • Classic drinks including martinis, piña coladas and ananniversarylabelled Prosecco • The ‘Seawitch West Coast IPA’ craft beer, brewed exclusively for the anniversary • Deck parties, which will be themed on ‘The Love Boat’, a romantic US TV comedy show that ran for ten seasons from 1977-1987. It was mostly set on board Princess Cruises’ ships and is credited with assisting the expansion of both the line and the overall cruise industry • A wide range of entertainment including parties, quizzes and tribute acts • Anniversary décor and signage on board ships and in terminal buildings.

Each ship in the fleet will feature a 50th anniversary flag on its bow • Limited edition merchandise from the on board boutiques The 50th anniversary will begin with the naming ceremony of Princess Cruises’ newest ship, Regal Princess, on November 5, 2014 in Florida by the original Love Boat cast members. The on board celebrations will launch on Regal Princess at this time and roll out to the rest of the fleet in early 2015.

Paul Ludlow, Princess Cruises’ managing director UK and Europe, said: “Princess Cruises has gone from strength-to-strength during the past 50 years and we’re eagerly anticipating the Golden Anniversary. It’s going to be incredibly exciting on board and we hope that past and new guests alike will join us to raise a glass, or two, in celebration.”

More information on the 50th anniversary can be found at www.princess.com/50

MSC Cruises puts families first with Chicco partnership

- Mini Olympic Games: from crawling to the Chicco Rodeo - Baby Chef: you’re never too young to make pizza!

- Meet our mascot: fun with DoreBaby

For parents with young children, choosing a holiday can be a real pain. Thankfully, MSC Cruises has the answer.

The Mediterranean’s number one cruise line has now completed the roll-out of its innovative brand partnership with childcare experts Chicco – giving mums and dads the option of fun, worryfree sailing around the world.

As part of the deal, every one of the 12 ships in the MSC Cruises fleet now comes equipped with a full range of Chicco’s marketleading products in its fun-filled kids’ clubs.

Items including strollers, bouncers, bottle warmers and baby backpacks are available for use during the voyage, allowing families to reduce dramatically the amount of packing needed for a baby.

In addition, Chicco and MSC Cruises have collaborated on a new programme of onboard entertainment activities for the youngest guests.

MSC Babytime: Fun, educational entertainment activities for toddlers and parents to share. All sessions have been specially designed by experts from the Chicco Observatory, a developmental research lab focusing on the under threes. The activities take place in the Mini Club from 8am to 10am, from 4pm to 6pm (if the ship is in port), and from 8pm to 9pm, and include - Let’s speak English: learn by playing with Chicco bilingual toys - Rhythm and music: stimulating play with sounds and music

MSC BabyCare: A new service that gives parents the chance to enjoy some quality time to themselves for lunch or dinner. Little ones can be dropped off at the Mini Club, where our qualified staff will take care of them while they play with a selection of Chicco toys. The service is available from 1pm to 2pm and from 6pm to 7pm on sea days.

Families with youngsters also receive a ‘Baby Globetrotter’ guide – a printed pack full of information about onboard services and Mini Club activities, game ideas, children’s menus and handy tips for family excursions specific to their ship’s itinerary.

The partnership with Chicco will be extended with the relaunch of MSC Armonia in mid-November. The ship is currently undergoing a £40 million stretching and refit as part of MSC Cruises’ ‘Renaissance programme’ to transform its four smallest, Lirica-class, vessels. MSC Armonia will have a dedicated Chicco-branded children’s area onboard.

Similar Chicco kids’ areas will be introduced to two newbuild mega-ships currently on order from French shipyard STX France that are due for delivery in Autumn 2017 and Spring 2018.

And remember, MSC Cruises is the only cruise line where children up to and including the age of 17 sail for free, all year round, on all itineraries, when travelling with two adults (kids pay flights and port taxes only).

For more information see www.msccruises.co.uk or call 020 3426 3010.

Queen Victoria Dazzles As a New Stage Show “Hollywood Rocks” Debuts to Rave Reviews Celebrating the glamour of Hollywood’s heyday as well as iconic movie soundtracks that have captured modern hearts, Queen Victoria’s brand new stage show ‘Hollywood Rocks’ is taking the luxury ship by storm, with the first performance receiving a standing ovation and 86% approval scores from passengers.

The impressive production, which cost over £300,000 to stage, takes passengers on an imaginative journey from the silent screen, through the golden age of cinema, to contemporary Oscar winners. The Show features song and dance numbers from some of the most famous movies in history including classics such as ‘Over the Rainbow’ from the Wizard of Oz, ‘Singing in the Rain’ which catapulted Gene Kelly to international stardom, ‘I Will Always Love You’ from The Bodyguard, ‘The Time of My Life’ from Dirty Dancing and an ABBA medley from ‘Mamma Mia’.

Angus Struthers, Marketing Director for Cunard, said: “Hollywood Rocks is a brand new production specially crafted for our guests aboard Queen Victoria. With emotionally-charged music, extravagant dance numbers and spectacular costumes, the show is an exuberant ride through the cinematic ages, featuring some of the most famous movies ever made.”

The cast of twelve dancers and four singers rehearsed the show for several months before stepping on board Queen Victoria this month.

Nick Thomas, Chairman of Qdos entertainment group, and the creative force behind Hollywood Rocks, said: “Qdos Entertainment is proud to be the first choice in producing high end stage shows for Cunard’s three Queens. Everyone has been really excited to work on Hollywood Rocks, and I know guests on board Queen Victoria have been swept away by the musicality and quality of production.”

During the 45-minute performance guests can enjoy hits from blockbusters such as, ‘The Bodyguard’, ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and ‘Titanic’ as they sit back and relax in Queen Victoria’s stunning three tier Royal Court Theatre, complete with the first theatre boxes at sea.

For more information about our cruises please visit our website for or latest itineraries www.cunard.co.uk

Oceania Cruises’ founders produce new art collection audio tour

Britannia’s “multi- sensory” menus bring new flavour to fine dining

When P&O Cruises launches its new ship Britannia next March, creativity, quality, flavour and variety, combined with a touch of theatre, will be the principles behind the ship’s impressive culinary offerings. These principles will be never more evident than in two of the ship’s fine dining venues – Sindhu and Epicurean – which will continue to build on P&O Cruises reputation for excellence in dining.

Widely recognised for curating one of the more exquisite art collections at sea, Oceania Cruises has produced a new Art Collection Audio Tour for guests on board the award-winning mid-sized luxury cruise ships Marina and Riviera.

Available from 1st November 2014 and narrated by Oceania Cruises’ Founder, Chairman and CEO Frank J. Del Rio and Co-Founder and Vice-Chairman Bob Binder, the complimentary tour provides stories and descriptions behind many of the 2000 + original artworks. The collection of museum-worthy art was personally acquired by Del Rio and Binder over a period of years and includes well-known stars as well as hidden gems, reflecting the way the line approaches itineraries.

As they stroll about the ship admiring the collection, guests will be entertained by Del Rio and Binders’ recorded commentary with behindthe-scenes tales of the art acquisitions found on the ship. While the two executives have a great appreciation for the arts, the light-hearted and often comical commentary implies that they do not consider themselves professional art curators, yet the narration reveals their immense passion and enthusiasm for the art on board the two ships.

The audio devices for the Oceania Cruises’ Art Collection Audio Tour are available to guests as a complimentary amenity and include recorded insights on more than 25 signature pieces of art on each ship. The pieces of art included in the tour have a placard with a number and an audio device symbol and guests can simply enter the number into the player keypad to hear the story behind the piece.

“We created the Oceania Cruises’ Art Collection Audio Tour and also published a book, The Oceania Cruises Art Collection, at the request of our guests, who are really enamoured by the artwork on board Marina and Riviera,” shares Del Rio. “We hope the tour will enhance the guests’ appreciation of the collection by sharing what inspired the artist, and what attracted us to the piece, but in a light-hearted way that will have anyone that knows us saying, ‘Here they go again.’”

While most cruise lines hire a third party to curate decorative art for their ships, the two Oceania Cruises executives travelled the globe hand-selecting every piece of art. From the masters Picasso and Miró to the modern art of Robert Mars and Damien Hirst, to emerging artists such as Li Domíguez Fong and Carlos Luna, the diverse collection spans a number of eras and genres. In a nod to Chairman Del Rio’s Cuban heritage, the collection features an array of celebrated Cuban artists, including Wifredo Lam, Cundo Bermúdez and René Portocarrero.

“Frank and I decided to personally choose each piece of artwork for the ship, which led to frequent debates over which of us has better taste in art,” explains Binder. “We selected pieces that are bold and interesting, that make a statement, provoke conversation and inspire emotion, much like the ships themselves. We hope everyone will enjoy a glimpse into our selection process.”

The Oceania Cruises Art Collection book is available on Amazon.co.uk and at OceaniaBookCollection.com. Guests can visit the purser’s desk for an audio device upon boarding Marina and Riviera beginning 1st November 2014.

For information about Oceania Cruises, contact www.oceaniacruises.com or call 0845 505 1920.

P&O Cruises’ marketing director Christopher Edgington said: “In recent years, our guests’ palates have become increasingly more sophisticated and our culinary offering needs to reflect this change. In Sindhu, guests will enjoy unique and innovative Indian cuisine combining Atul Kochhar’s heritage with his love of British ingredients, while in Epicurean they’ll be treated to a brand new multi-sensory cooking experience with touches of molecular gastronomy that complement the more traditional dishes. Both restaurants demonstrate a passion for cooking and will satisfy the most discerning guest.”

Sindhu P&O Cruises has always been proud of its long-standing affiliation with India and Sindhu celebrates this in style. Michelin star holder and ‘master of spices’, Atul Kochhar is the creator of Sindhu where he will showcase his unrivalled flair for fine dining using big bold flavours combining his homeland’s spices with quality British and European ingredients.

In addition to this extensive and varied menu, Sindhu also offers a bar menu featuring Nashta – Indian tapas.

Epicurean This fine dining restaurant offers an extraordinary experience where a sense of occasion is always on the menu. Fusing classic dining elements with the best of modern British cuisine in a sophisticated and contemporary setting, the emphasis is on grand style and flawless service. Using the finest and freshest produce presented with great skill to achieve maximum flavour, the dishes are simple allowing the ingredients to be the stars of the show.

Norwegian Cruise Line announces World Travel Award success with special celebration campaign in the UK Norwegian Cruise Line has once again been named “Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Line” by the World Travel Awards.

The 21st annual awards, announced on 25 October, are voted on by travel professionals and consumers from around the globe and honour the world’s top travel companies for outstanding products and services.

Norwegian, which has been voted Europe’s Leading Cruise Line for seven consecutive years as well as the World’s Leading Large Ship Cruise Line, has ten spectacular Freestyle Cruising vessels sailing the Caribbean this winter from five convenient departure ports, including Norwegian Getaway, the line’s newest ship and the largest ship to sail to the Caribbean year-round from Miami, and Norwegian Jewel, sailing from Houston for the first time since 2007.

“We are honoured to receive this prestigious award for the second year in a row,” said Kevin Sheehan, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “Norwegian was the first to cruise to the Caribbean 48 years ago, and this award today is a testament to our hard-working crew, incredible ships and the freedom and flexibility that only a Norwegian cruise offers to guests sailing the Caribbean.”

To celebrate winning the award Norwegian Cruise Line has launched its Norwegians Love to Celebrate campaign in the UK, offering $100 on-board spend per stateroom when guests book a Caribbean or European cruise between 5 and 25 November 2014. Valid on cruises of five nights or more, the on-board spend can be used by guests on a variety of cruise experiences such as speciality dining, spa treatments, shore excursions and much more.

Guests can cruise aboard Miami’s Ultimate Ship, Norwegian Getaway, as she sails seven-night cruises to the Eastern Caribbean from her year-round homeport of Miami. The line’s newest ship visits tropical ports of call including Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas. Guests will be dazzled by the ship’s Miami flair, exceptional dining and entertainment as well as the excitement of 678 Ocean Place and The Waterfront, a variety of interconnected indoor and outdoor venues on three dynamic decks that creates a multiplex of dining, activities and more that enhance guests’ connection with the ocean.

Between 9 November, 2014 and 12 April, 2015, guests can enjoy cruises on board Norwegian Epic, Norwegian’s largest ship to date and named the “Best Ship for Sea Days” by Cruise Critic. Guests will sail from Miami to sunny Western Caribbean destinations including Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Cozumel, Mexico.

Other ships sailing the Caribbean from Miami include Norwegian Pearl, offering various cruises to the Eastern and Southern Caribbean or the Bahamas; and Norwegian Star, sailing the Panama Canal.

Tourists in Tampa, New York City and New Orleans can also cruise to the Caribbean with Norwegian. Those looking to cruise from Tampa can set sail on board Norwegian Sun which is currently sailing the Western Caribbean.

Norwegian Gem offers spectacular nine-night Eastern Caribbean cruises from New York City while Norwegian Breakaway, the ship that brings the best of NYC to Sea, offers guests the chance to cruise from the Big Apple to the Bahamas & Florida. In New Orleans, guests can cruise to the Western Caribbean on Norwegian Dawn, departing weekly to Cozumel; Belize City; Roatan; and Costa Maya, starting 23 November, 2014.

Trimline Wins Condor Ferries Refurbishment Trimline, Southamptonbased marine interior refurbishment specialists, has won a contract with Condor Ferries to customise their new high-speed passenger and vehicle ferry.

The vessel, which will operate between Poole and the Channel Islands is due to undergo the major refurbishment in January 2015, with the work lasting two months.

With no current galley provision, Trimline will be installing and designing a galley on the ship to serve a self-service restaurant that will be created by the Trimline team. Lighting, seating, catering equipment and serveries will all be installed and designed to complement the Condor Ferries colour scheme.

The Bar, Bureau de Change, Children’s Area and Duty Free Shop will also undergo major transformations with all units for the shop being created at Trimline’s Southampton headquarters. Electrical work and flooring will all be undertaken by Trimline to complete the refurbishment.

The high-speed ferry requires specialist materials which will see Trimline manufacture units from specialist lightweight materials to enable the ferry to stay within safe weight limits for operation.

Mark Hodgetts, Onboard Services Director at Condor Ferries, said: “We are really looking forward to working closely with Trimline on this project, the work is a real partnership between us, Trimline and Austal who designed and manufactured the ship. The design for the onboard layout has been carefully considered and planned - it will offer our passengers more choice across retail and catering with new brands, concepts and menu options.”

Andrew Richards, CEO of Trimline, said: “All of the team at Trimline are delighted to be working with Condor Ferries on this prestigious project it gives us a great opportunity to show how, by collaborating with the project team at Condor, we can deliver modern solution to address passenger comfort, catering and retail needs that will be both cost effective and revenue enhancing for the operator”

Making her debut in Houston, the recently-refurbished Norwegian Jewel offers seven-night Western Caribbean cruises through 11 April, 2015, including the brand new port of Trujillo on Honduras’ beautiful and untouched Banana Coast.

The high-speed ferry requires specialist materials which will see Trimline manufacture units from specialist lightweight materials to enable the ferry to stay within safe weight limits for operation.

For more information on Norwegian Cruise Line, or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian on 0845 201 8900 or visit www.ncl.co.uk.

The ferry is due to enter service in late March 2015.

MSC Cruises and LEGO build the fun at sea MSC Cruises and the LEGO Group have joined forces to create the first-ever LEGO-themed playrooms at sea.

The new play areas will debut aboard MSC Armonia, which is currently being lengthened and refitted as part of the cruise line’s £160 million Renaissance Programme*.

Further – and larger – LEGO play areas will be included in two vessels (different classes) now being built for MSC Cruises by Fincantieri and STX France, both scheduled for delivery in 2017**.

The move heralds enhancements to the MSC Cruises’ kids’ clubs, which will see separate clubs and facilities created for five age groups, namely Baby (under 3s); Mini (3-6 years); Junior (7-11 years); Young (12-14 years) and Teen (15-17 years).

All three ships featured in the LEGO tie-up will have two kids’ clubs – the Mini Club and Junior Club - fitted out in the muchloved building brick style.

The agreement is part of MSC Cruises’ on-going aim to partner with top global brands onboard, and follows a recent deal with Italian childcare experts Chicco.

Guests will get their first chance to see the LEGO play areas when MSC Armonia returns to service on November 19 with an inaugural cruise from Genoa, Italy to the Canary Islands. This winter the ship will operate two alternating seven-night itineraries from Las Palmas, Gran Canaria (Canaries and Madeira & Canaries and Morocco).

The new LEGO Experience on board will include: • DUPLO Play Pen: supervised play for children under five, including educational games and challenges • Classic LEGO bricks for free time play (children aged five-11) • The LEGO Vertical Play Wall: a fun game that pits two teams against each other to complete the building of a figure on each side of the wall (children aged 7-11) • Building Happening: a contest for two teams to create the most impressive construction (children aged 6-11, parents welcome!)

• LEGO Tech Experience: free play with LEGO-branded games on X-Box, Wii and PlayStation (children aged 7-11)

As an extra treat, children taking part in LEGO activities onboard will all receive a diploma certifying that he/she is now an official Junior LEGO Master Builder. During their cruise, families will also have the chance to meet with LEGO mascot Sailor Walkabout. The two-metre tall character will join the MSC Cruises team for onboard parades and events to interact with youngsters.

MSC Cruises’ CEO Gianni Onorato said: “The LEGO Group and MSC Cruises are both family businesses recognised the world over, so our two companies are a great match. LEGO bricks and toys are close to the hearts of millions of people who grew up playing with them, and with this partnership we hope to give our younger guests some magical memories that they’ll treasure forever. We’re proud to be able to make The LEGO Group a contributor to the MSC cruise concept, and I know our younger guests are going to love this exciting new addition.”

MSC Cruises already sells LEGO toys in retail outlets across its fleet of 12 ships. And as part of the deal, LEGO will introduce a new MSC Cruise Ship building set to its range. The set will feature 106 bricks and will be introduced in time for the launch of MSC Cruises’ two mega-ship launches in 2017.

Full details of all LEGO-related activity on board MSC Armonia will be included in the event programme delivered to guests each day.

Pop icon, Kim Wilde hosts an exclusive concert on board the EUROPA 2 “Kids in America”, “Cambodia”, “Keep Me Hanging On” and “You Came” – these are just some of singer Kim Wilde’s greatest hits, which she will be performing at her exclusive “unplugged” concert on board the EUROPA 2. This will take place on board the 5-starsplus ship (as rated by the Berlitz Cruise Guide 2015) on a cruise of western Europe in June 2015, which will call at destinations including Bordeaux. Here, the EUROPA 2 will meet its sister ship, EUROPA – and to mark such a joyous occasion, the guests of both luxury ships will be able to celebrate at this top-class Kim Wilde concert.

An icon of contemporary music history, Kim Wilde represents synthpop at its best. At her acoustic concert on board, she will surprise guests with new sounds and perform softer versions of her more traditional rock-style hits. Live and up close, guests of the EUROPA and EUROPA 2 can enjoy a truly special type of concert experience with Kim Wilde, something, which is only rarely possible – an absolute musical highlight.

The EUROPA 2 cruise on which the Kim Wilde concert will take place sails for 13 nights, departing on 29 May 2015 from Hamburg to Lisbon via List/Sylt/Germany, Honfleur/France, Portsmouth/Great Britain, St. Peter Port/Guernsey, St. Malo/France, Le Palais/France, Bordeaux/France and La Coruna/Spain; the cruise-only cost: from GBP4,500 per person).

Cruise: EUX1514 Guests on the EUROPA can enjoy the Kim Wilde concert on board the EUROPA 2 at the ships’ reunion in Bordeaux as their cruise sails for 14 nights from Lisbon to Hamburg.

CMV Announces the addition of a new flagship for 2015 British based Cruise Operator, Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV), is pleased to announce the addition of Grand Holiday from Costa Crociere to the CMV fleet, commencing ex-UK operations under the CMV livery in spring 2015.

She will be re-named Magellan and at 46,052grt will carry about 1250 passengers becoming the proud new flagship of the CMV ocean fleet operating as an adult only (16 years plus) ship alongside Marco Polo (800pax), Astor (600pax) and Azores (550pax).

Chris Coates, Commercial Director commented, “We are delighted to have secured this excellent addition to our fleet which we believe will be very well suited to our core British market. The introduction of Magellan will increase UK capacity by 40% increasing carryings up to 74,000 passengers. Having already sold 65% of capacity for next year we remain confident that Magellan will help satisfy the growing demand for our product”.

Christian Verhounig, CEO and Chairman of CMV explained, “The introduction of Magellan to our growing ocean fleet is another important milestone in the expansion and strategic development of the Group’s presence in the UK and wider international markets which will increase overall capacity to 115,000 passengers. The CMV brand is now creating much wider recognition and we remain confident that our medium to longer term growth objectives will be achieved”.

A new 2015 special launch edition brochure will be released on Tuesday 4th November 2014 detailing Magellan’s inaugeral CMV summer 2015 and winter 2015-16 programme. Special introductory fares with savings of up to 50% plus a 25% single supplement deal for the solos market will be on offer to launch the programme. The maiden CMV voyage will be a 12 night cruise to Iceland and the Faroes for the Solar Eclipse and Northern Lights sailing from London Tilbury on Sunday 15th March 2015. She will also be sailing from Newcastle Tyne.

Other programme changes include an Azores ex-Liverpool summer season and an 11 night Autumn Mediterranean fly cruise series plus a second Marco Polo 34 night Autumn Commemorative voyage to Canada. Magellan will be cruising to the Amazon in winter 2016 while Marco Polo will embark on a new 54 night voyage to Brazil, Argentina & Chile and Tierra del Fuego.

Latest data shows cruise tourism numbers will be heading towards 27 million by 2019 The latest Cruise Industry Statistics now available for immediate download from G. P. Wild (International) Limited indicates that cruise tourism numbers are expected to reach more than 26 million by 2019.

The accompanying capacity growth of at least 22% from 2014 to 2019 will see lower berth numbers rise to over 520,000. To find out more about where the growth and future opportunities lie, order your copy of the 2013-14 edition of the Cruise Industry Statistical Review now. It is available for immediate download from www.gpwild.com or it can also be ordered by phone or fax Tel: +44 1444 413931 Fax: +44 1444 441952 As management, marketing and economic consultants G. P. Wild (International) Limited provides business advice and consultancy in a variety of specialist areas with the focus being on the cruise, ferry and maritime tourism industries.

The company has been instrumental in boosting cruise passenger numbers to a variety of destinations. To find out more about how they can help you or to access the comprehensive range of exclusive cruise industry statistics email enquiries@gpwild.co.uk or visit the website at www.gpwild.com

Royal Caribbean International Launches Quantum Of The Seas, The World’s Most Technologically Advanced Ship Royal Caribbean International, the international leisure business, today celebrates the arrival of Quantum of the Seas in Southampton, the first-ever smartship and most technologically advanced in the world. Royal Caribbean developed the ship with the aim of setting new standards in cruising innovation and capitalising on increasing passenger numbers in the UK and Ireland.

In Europe, consumer appetite for cruising is soaring – last year passenger numbers were up 44 per cent to 6.4 million from 2008 , and the Royal Caribbean Cruises brands collectively in the UK and Ireland saw 8% growth in the same period. And by 2016 Royal Caribbean International will be the largest global cruise line brand in terms of fleet capacity.

With Quantum of the Seas, Royal Caribbean aims to specifically target “new to cruise” consumers, for whom cruising is an untested holiday concept – with its unprecedented levels of technology such as robotic bartenders, SMART Check-In using RFID luggage tags, and transformational high-speed Internet speeds.

Royal Caribbean has an additional two Quantum class ships on order to cope with anticipated demand around the world. Of these, Anthem of the Seas will be docked at its home port of Southampton in the UK in April 2015. Over 80,000 people are anticipated to travel on Anthem of the Seas during its inaugural season, delivering around £50 million in add-on economic impacts to Southampton and the surrounding area.

Stuart Leven, Managing Director at Royal Caribbean International commented: ““The UK is a critical market for Royal Caribbean – our second-largest globally – and Quantum of the Seas’ departure from here is a strategic decision, demonstrating our recognition and belief in the potential of this territory.

“With Quantum of the Seas, we’re pushing the boundaries of what is possible. We’re hoping to impress our repeat cruisers with the stunning digital technology we’ve incorporated across all of its on board spaces, but we are also aiming to deliver a total redefinition of the concept of a Royal Caribbean holiday in the minds of “new to cruise” consumers.

“We’re poised and ready for yet more growth in the UK and Ireland – and we want to be the business that leads it.”

The Quantum-class ships, Quantum of the Seas and sister-ship Anthem of the Seas will introduce a new set of first-at-sea onboard experiences, such as Ripcord by iFLY, an exciting skydiving experience; North Star, a thrilling adventure that transports guests more than 300 feet in the air on a breathtaking journey; cuttingedge transformative venues including SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; and the cruise line’s largest and most advanced staterooms ever.

Guests also will enjoy the new Quantum-class Dynamic Dining, a completely new culinary experience that offers a landscape of 18 restaurant concepts as vast and varied as dining in the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, including specialty restaurants created with partner-chefs Jamie Oliver, Devin Alexander and Michael Schwartz.

The Quantum Class spans 18 decks, encompasses 167,800 gross registered tons, carries 4,180 guests at double occupancy and features 2,090 staterooms. Quantum of the Seas will sail out of New York Harbour from her homeport of Cape Liberty for her inaugural season before departing to her new homeport of Shanghai (Baoshan), China. Looking to 2015, Royal Caribbean is basing its newest and most exciting ship in the UK – Anthem of the Seas will launch in Southampton and sail from the port throughout summer 2015.

For more information on Royal Caribbean International visit www.royalcaribbean.co.uk.

MSC Cruises Puts Agents in the Picture with country-wide Cinema Events

MSC Cruises will start its campaign to engage further with the travel trade next week with a series of cinema events.

The seven events, which start Monday 24 November, will take place at various locations around the UK over a three week period.

Approximately seventy-five agents are expected to attend each event, which will consist of a short presentation from either MSC Cruises’ Commercial Director Lee Strongitharm or MSC Cruises’ Head of Sales UK & ROI, Janet Parton covering key sales messages, followed by the showing of a latest cinema release with drinks and popcorn all round.

Janet Parton commented: “Getting closer to agents is a central pillar of our expansion plan and these cinema events are a brilliant way to remind the trade that we are here, we have a great product and we want to grow with them.

We have refreshed our relationships with Thomas Cook and Tui at a head office level, so it is vital we engage with their staff on the frontline. We want this to be the start of a much closer working relationship – and get agents to appreciate how much fun you can have with MSC Cruises.”

The cinema events have been organised in association with 3FOR, a specialist travel marketing agency.

Hurtigruten fleet gains new expedition ship Hurtigruten and Spitsbergen Travel are ramping up their position on Svalbard by chartering MS Nordstjernen, which will offer a programme of expedition style short voyages from 2015.

Hurtigruten is, through the expedition ship MS Fram and Spitsbergen Travel, already the principal tourism operator on Svalbard. The group is now further strengthening its position by targeting the rapidly growing ‘short breaks’ market with MS Nordstjernen.

“This is a strategic investment for the future. MS Nordstjernen completes the range of services we offer in Svalbard. Over a long weekend you can experience the spectacular Longyearbyen and sailing along the north-western coast with a product that only we offer,” says Hurtigruten Group CEO Daniel Skjeldam.

The ship is leased through Hurtigruten’s wholly owned subsidiary Spitsbergen Travel during the months of June, July and August.

Holidaymakers can combine a 3-4 day voyage with the unique activities and attractions offered in and around Longyearbyen.

Guests will be able to explore Longyearbyen, Barentsburg, Ny-Ålesund and the entire superb north-western coast of Spitsbergen. You can expect to see spectacular Arctic wildlife with walruses, polar bears, a diverse range of bird species and other Arctic animals such as whales, foxes, reindeer, and grouse.

The ship will sail along stunningly beautiful fjords, surrounded by majestic mountains and imposing glaciers.

For Hurtigruten ASA this is a crucial strategic move to further build its business in Svalbard. The MS Fram already offers a series of longer voyages around the islands which have already proved incredibly popular and operate with a high level of capacity.

“Svalbard and Spitsbergen Travel are integral to the success of the Group. We are already the principal tour operator on the archipelago, and are now further strengthening this position.

We have every confidence that MS Nordstjernen will be an unmitigated success with its expeditions to Svalbard,” says Daniel Skjeldam.

The Arctic expedition with MS Nordstjernen kicks off with a combination of the best Norway has to offer on its seaways, including several UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites. MS

Facebook Favourite: 3 Million Fans Make MSC Cruises The World’s Most Social Cruise Line MSC Cruises is today celebrating becoming the world’s first cruise line to cross the threshold of 3 million fans on Facebook – a total reached in just three years.

MSC Cruises Corporate Social Media Manager David Arcifa said: “A million fans a year is a great rate, and we’re thrilled to have surpassed the three million mark so quickly. It’s taken a concerted strategy to engage many different communities worldwide by projecting the company voice into every market.

Now we’re focused on engaging even further with current and future fans, and consolidating MSC’s position as the world’s most social cruise line.”

MSC Cruises is fully committed to various major social channels, including YouTube, Instagram and Twitter, but it is through Facebook that the company has reached farthest, by opening a continuous two-way dialogue with fans of the MSC experience.

Nordstjernen departs Bergen on June 1st and visits a number of unique fjords in Western Norway, the architectural gem of Ålesund Town, Lofoten, Tromsø and Honningsvåg/North Cape before setting sail for the Svalbard archipelago. The voyage starts in the Hanseatic city of Bergen at 60 degrees Latitude, and concludes in Longyearbyen after the ship has visited the Moffen nature reserve at 80 degrees Latitude.

Having relocated to Svalbard, the ship will offer voyages departing from Longyearbyen every Monday and Thursday until 28th August.

“There’s scarcely a ship that can say it has served the Norwegian coast and Svalbard better than the legendary MS Nordstjernen, and we know the ship will be welcomed with open arms in both the Norwegian and international market,” says Spitsbergen Travel’s Project Manager Hilde Fålun Strøm.

MS Nordstjernen commenced its summer voyages to Svalbard in 1994. She previously called in to the archipelago on the Coastal Express route. However, her impressive list of merits isn’t just confined to Svalbard. The ship was delivered to Bergenske Dampskibsselskab from Blohm&Voss AF in Hamburg on 24 February 1956 and had on the eve of her 50th birthday in 2006 sailed a distance along the Norwegian coast equal to circumnavigating the equator 150 times. In the years 1976-1979 she sailed the “Spring Cruise” from Bergen to the Shetlands.

MS Nordstjernen has undergone an extensive upgrade in accordance with the Conservation Ruling issued by the Directorate for Cultural Heritage.

Prices start from £927 for a six day trip departing on 11 June including transfers, one night in a hotel in Spitsbergen on half board basis, voyage on full board basis, plus all hikes and landings. Flights cost from an additional £520 per person.

To book call Hurtigruten on tel: 020 3582 6642 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk.

In 2013 MSC Cruises launched a YouTube channel to inspire both experienced and would-be cruisers with creative video showing MSC itineraries, shore excursions and life on board. Today, MSC Cruises ranks as one of the world’s top cruise lines on YouTube with more than 6 million views.

The company’s Instagram follower-base is also rising fast, from 5,000 in 2013 to almost 12,000 today. Instagram is the optimal tool to engage MSC travellers by sharing their holiday snaps and experiences using the hashtag #MedWayofLife, which is also liberally used on Twitter. MSC Cruises’ 18 different national Twitter profiles have more than 100,000 followers.

Another strand of MSC Cruises’ social media strategy involves reaching out to worldwide travel bloggers, who sample and review MSC’s many global itineraries and onboard experiences. Blogs, like social media friends and review sights, are frequently where people turn for tips, recommendations and insights when making travel plans.

David Arcifa added: “We were an early adopter of this approach, and MSC is still an extremely blogger-conscious cruise line. We sponsor the biggest international travel blog events, and pursue an active outreach programme. A glowing write-up by a popular travel blogger can be as powerful, if not more so, as traditional journalism. Blog followers feel personally engaged with their bloggers, so tend to have real confidence in their opinions.”

Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa To Join Crystal’s President Cruise in 2015 Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa is to bring his internationally acclaimed expertise onboard Crystal Cruises’ 12th July ultra-luxury European cruise from Lisbon to Dover. The planned special dinners, sake tastings and celebrations set to feature Nobu’s famous Peruvian-infused Japanese cuisine will only enhance the special atmosphere onboard, as the sailing celebrates Crystal’s 25th Anniversary and is hosted by Crystal’s president and COO Edie Rodriguez.

Throughout the 13-night voyage, Nobu – whose signature cuisine is featured in Crystal’s Silk Road and The Sushi Bar – will share his talents and famously personable panache during cooking demos, book signings and Sake tastings with Sake Master Hazu.

More exclusive and indulgent experiences planned for the voyage include: • Two omakase, or chef’s choice, dinners in Silk Road, with menus by Nobu featuring Connoisseur ingredients - including toro tuna - paired with champagne and rare, speciallycrafted Hokustsu “Northern Snow” Sake and Ongaku-shu “Musical Sake”. The $250 per person dinners also offers guests a complimentary signed cookbook and photo with Nobu.

• An extravagant, $1,000-per-guest Ultimate Vintage Room dinner with a specially designed menu complete with champagne and wine pairings for just 12 guests.

“Nobu has been a special part of the Crystal family for many years and we’re thrilled to welcome him back onboard to celebrate our 25th anniversary,” said Rodriguez. “Luxury travellers throughout the world relish the opportunity to enjoy his distinctive cuisine.

Therefore, the fact that they can enjoy his specialties on every cruise during the year and have the opportunity to mingle with and learn from him makes it all the more special for Crystal guests.”

Nobu’s Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine has been served complimentary in Silk Road and The Sushi Bar onboard every Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity sailing since 2003 and 2008, respectively. Nobu personally trains all chefs, designs all menus and frequently visits the ships for ongoing refinement.

The cruise departs Lisbon on 12th July and visits Oporto, St-Jean-de-Luz, Bordeaux (two nights), Brest, St-Malo (overnight), Guernsey and Honfleur (overnight). Book before 2nd January 2015 for all-inclusive fly/cruise prices starting from £3,889 per person including flight from the UK to Lisbon, overseas transfers and 13 nights in a deluxe stateroom with picture window with all meals and soft drinks, most alcoholic beverages, port taxes and gratuities.

Crystal Cruises is the world’s leading luxury cruise provider, having earned more “World’s Best” awards than any other cruise line, hotel or resort in history. Aboard the all-inclusive, ultra-luxurious Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, refined elegance meets casual simplicity. With an emphasis on innovative product differentiation, the renowned Crystal experience is distinguished by classic service, abundant space, superior quality and extensive choices. Crystal sails to all seven continents, providing worldwide holidays of five to 100+ nights that bridge the best of land and sea.

For further information and reservations please call Crystal Cruises on 020 7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk

New Burma river cruising programme for 2016

GUIDED TOURS & RIVER CRUISES

27 October 2014: Award-winning river cruise and tour operator, APT, has unveiled a new four-star boutique river ship, the RV Princess Panhwar in its new Asia 2015 - 16 brochure, out now. The custom built vessel offers premium river cruising with guests enjoying a choice of 36 staterooms and suites ranging in size from 26 sqm to 42.5 sqm, and either a French or an outside balcony.

Public areas aboard the sophisticated new vessel include an air-conditioned lounge area on the sun deck, a main restaurant, and a spa and massage facility. Princess Panhwar will cruise on APT’s premium ‘Travelmarvel’ range of holidays in Burma.

At the heart of the Burma river cruising programme is the 15-day Majestic Burma – Irrawaddy Cruise from Yangon to Mandalay. Priced from just £3,995 per person, twin share, the cruise takes in all of the fascinating highlights of this emerging destination, including: Shwedagon Pagoda; a journey by horse drawn cart to the ‘Leaning Tower of Inwa’, taking in Maha Aung Mye Bon Zan Monastery and the teak-wood Bagaya Monastery en route; the opportunity to add your own sheet of gold leaf to the Mahamuni Buddha; and an exploration of Bagan, one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites.

There is a choice of 24 sailings between January 2016 and April 2017. A three day extension of the Majestic Burma itinerary to Inle Lake is available. Early booking offer: Your Companion Flies Free, saving up to £1,000 per couple. Book by 28 February 2015.

Travelmarvel holidays cover everything as brochured, including: the services of a Travelmarvel Tour or Cruise director, international flights, meals and complimentary house wine, local beer and soft drink served with lunch and dinner on board the RV Princess Panhwar, airport transfers, tipping, excursions, accommodation and entrance fees.

For further information call 0800 046 3002, visit www.aptouring.co.uk or see your local travel agent.

Explore Norway on a vintage voyage Hurtigruten offers new concept for classic ship MS Lofoten Hurtigruten has announced a new concept on-board the fleet’s grand old lady, MS Lofoten (1964) from April 2015. The ship’s classic characteristics will be accentuated throughout her voyages, offering passengers nostalgic maritime experiences such as fishing directly from the ship, bridge tournaments, afternoon teas and a more traditional dining experience.

Exclusive experiences This small, agile veteran of the seas has a few advantages overthe larger ships that visit this beaufigul region: she can navigate waters others can’t - bringing her passengers closer to the action and closer to the scenery. While the ship will operate on the traditional coastal voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, Hurtigruten are currently working on a number of new diversions and ports of call to add to the experience from April 2015.

Nearly 30 excursions are available with further exclusive activities offered. Passengers will be given the opportunity to fish directly from the deck, or set pots to entice the fascinating king crab and retireve the catch on the return journey. The catch of the day will be prepared and served to the lucky fishermen at the next meal. In the evenings, all those fisherman’s tales gathered during the day, can be recounted over a game of bridge and a (complimentary) glass of sherry in the vintage lounge before dinner. Afternoon teas and quiz evenings will also be part of the new on-board experience.

white gloves and the uniforms of the era, while a Captain’s Dinner will round off this voyage down memory lane. ”Modern dining and Asian fusion can be enjoyed all over the world, but now it is time to turn back the time on MS Lofoten to the old virtues, before sushi, pizza and the internet took over our everyday lifestyle. Offering an 11 day nostalgic, but high quality service concept is something we are really excited to offer our guests from 2015”, comments Thomas Westergaard, SVP Product Development & Hotel Operations.

A venerable lady This vintage ship, launched in 1964 in Oslo, was refitted and renovated in 2003. Since that day 50 years ago, the MS Lofoten has remained loyal to the Hurtigruten shipping company and its fans. Its tasteful wooden decks, original lounges and traditional panorama decks ensure it retains its authentically charming atmosphere. This smallest and oldest Hurtigruten ship has been protected by a preservation order since 2001 and enjoys a very special place in the hearts of Hurtigruten customers. Its traditional charm and unique character have earned it a large community of fans. By its 50th birthday in 2014, the MS Lofoten had travelled almost three million nautical miles, transported 1.25 million guests and docked over 75,000 times in the Hurtigruten ports.

Prices for 12 day Classic Round Voyage costs from £1,197 per person on full board basis, departing on 15 April 2015. Flights cost from £330 return. Other duration voyages are also available. For more information call Hurtigruten on tel: 020 3582 6642 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk.

Norwegian cuisine at its finest A delicious 4-course dinner based on the menus of the 1960s will be created to delight the taste buds with fresh and seasonal ingredients from local suppliers along the coast. While Hurtigruten are generally known for their informal atmosphere, the voyages on MS Lofoten will be enhanced by a service reminiscent of that offered in the early days of the ship.

Dishes will be served from silver platters by staff wearing crisp

Avalon Waterways Introduces Rail Travel Connections for 2015 European River Cruises Luxury river cruise company, Avalon Waterways has introduced rail travel options to connect with its wide choice of European river cruise packages for 2015 offering customers even more flexibility and choice.

Customers who prefer not to fly or would like to travel in a more relaxed way can now tailor-make their holiday by choosing train travel or a combination of flight and rail with city stopovers. An extensive network of rail options is now available to Frankfurt, Munich, Paris, Zurich and Vienna.

Working with experienced rail operator Voyages-sncf UK, Avalon Waterways is offering high-speed rail options with Eurostar, TGV Lyria and Alleo. Although Avalon currently works with Eurostar, the rail services from Paris to Basel and Zurich with TGV Lyria as well as from Paris to Frankfurt and Munich with Alleo are completely new to the cruise programme. Both rail companies offer spacious and comfortable single and double decker trains with luxurious Christian Lacroix designed interiors, panoramic windows and a generous passenger baggage allowance.

Options include adding an overnight hotel stay in London before travelling by train to Paris, adding another hotel stay to enjoy the famous sights of the French capital before travelling by train to Zurich and joining the river cruise at Basel. Upgrades to first class train travel are also available to make the journey even more relaxing.

David Binns, General Manager, Avalon Waterways commented: “We are delighted to be working with the experienced team at Voyages-sncf UK to provide our customers with the flexibility of an alternative to air travel to join our European cruises. We can tailor-make journeys to suit individuals by adding overnight city stays to make the most of their stay, have an extra day to sightsee before boarding a train or simply vary the way they travel by taking the train on the outbound journey and flying home on the return.”

For more information ring 0800 440 2798 or visit www.avaloncruises.co.uk. *prices include private home pick up service, return train travel, deluxe cruise accommodation with complimentary wine served with dinner, overnight hotel accommodation, guided sightseeing, onboard gratuities and airport transfers.

Princess Cruises Partners with Discovery Consumer Products for Onboard Activities and Immersive Shore Excursions Based on Discovery Communications’ Network Brands Princess Cruises, one of the world’s best-known names in cruising, and Discovery Consumer Products, the licensing arm of Discovery Communications the world’s #1 pay-TV programmer, today announced their collaboration to create Discovery At Sea, interactive onboard activities and shore excursions to entertain and delight families aboard Princess ships.

The new Discovery At Sea cruise vacations will feature themed tours, science activities, hands-on programs and games based on Discovery’s breadth of brands and programming. Debuting on Princess Cruises’ ships in early 2015, the interactive experiences are designed to bring to life the nature, wildlife and history of the regions guests are sailing.

Discovery At Sea content will be based on top-rated Discovery network properties from Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet and Science Channel. Some of the integrations guests will experience are based on Shark Week, Mythbusters and Deadliest Catch.

Guests will be able to let their imaginations set sail with a variety of activities including: Discovery Under the Stars – Guests on select cruise vacations will forever look up at the night sky in a whole new way after this cosmic voyage from the ship’s top deck.

Shark Week at Sea – This experience will challenge adults and kids alike, testing their knowledge of the ocean with trivia games and a variety of themed activities.

Baking at Sea with TLC – All ages will be able to join in the fun of learning to bake and decorate cakes by the best pastry chefs at sea.

Discovery, Animal Planet and Science Channel Shore Excursions - Offerings will include panning for gold on the Gold Rush inspired tour; getting up-close with each destination’s native animals during Animal Planet tours; and learning how popular foods and beverages go from farm to table on Science Channel How It’s Made tours.

Discovery Kids and Teens Program – Age-appropriate onboard activities will include fun and engaging science experiments made popular by Mythbusters; Animal Planet themed activities; brain teasers and competitions; and videos, puzzles, games and apps from Discovery.

“This is such an exciting partnership between our two companies because we are both passionate about exploring the world,” said Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises. “Discovery’s brands resonate with a growing, global audience and we’ll be bringing some of their most popular programs to life for our guests in the context of the destinations they are visiting on their cruise. We’re creating meaningful and memorable shared experiences while also fueling a lifelong passion for travel.”

“From science and nature to baking, crafting and exploration, the Discovery brands truly provide something for every cruiser to enjoy,” said Nicolas Bonard, SVP of Global Discovery Consumer Products. “This partnership is the perfect integration of our brands into the amazing offering Princess provides its guests onboard, creating a truly unique experience igniting curiosity on every voyage.”

To further enhance the cruise experience, Princess ships will feature a lineup of television programming including hit shows from Discovery Channel, Animal Planet and TLC. Discovery limited-time-only merchandise will also be available onboard, offering passengers a chance to bring home branded keepsake souvenirs.

‘Meet the Fleet’ with CLIA UK & Ireland Which ships use sterling, have a sushi restaurant or offer single cabins are just some of the questions which agents can now answer with a click of the mouse thanks to a new ‘Meet the Fleet’ digital fact file launched today by CLIA UK & Ireland.

‘Meet the Fleet’ contains the details of more than 260 ocean cruise ships and provides information on everything from which ships have speciality restaurants and theatres through to those which provide babysitting facilities and have cabins that can sleep three or more.

Software service provider, Widgety, has created ‘Meet the Fleet’ which will initially be exclusively available to CLIA agent members. The search programme allows agents to look for specific information including filtering by company, ship, size of vessel and passenger capacity.

Andy Harmer, director of CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “Meet the Fleet is an invaluable tool in helping agents answer specific queries raised by customers. We know the importance of knowledge when successfully selling cruise holidays and this digital fact file brings an enormous amount of information together in one place which is then easily searchable. ” He continued: “With hundreds of cruise ships to choose from, this tool will help agents find the right cruise for the right customer which is essential for the continued growth of cruising.”

Damian Gevertz, Widgety’s creator and founder, said: “Damian Gevertz, Widgety’s creator and founder, said: “This latest development from Widgety brings together our entire database of cruise information. Comprehensive information complements the very latest images and videos. Everything’s covered; from accommodation to deck plans, food and drink to new features onboard. This will give CLIA members the power to search for ships that meet their customers’ exact requirements, as well as a resource to showcase all of the great features onboard.”

For further information visit www.cruiseexperts.org

Learn more...

www.pocruises.com/discover-britannia/britannia/

Meet Britannia

What better title for the latest P&O Cruises cruise ship, than Britannia? Embodying the optimism of today’s Britain whilst acknowledging P&O Cruises long British heritage, the name is perfect for our new modern classic.

Arriving in spring 2015, Britannia will represent the very best of the best! The largest cruise ship built exclusively for Britain, she will combine signature P&O Cruises features with the very latest innovations in dining, entertainment and modern design.

Britannia will embrace a bold new 94 metre Union Flag on her bow displaying the longest version of the Flag anywhere in the

world. The new style represents a contemporary approach to cruising which looks to the future, whilst celebrating the past. The new imagery on the bow will be sympathetic to Britannia’s sweeping lines and enhance her presence across the world in port and at sea.Her other distinctive features include blue funnels carrying an illuminated rising sun motif which depicts the Oriental part of the Peninsular and Oriental (P&O) name on the company’s Coat of Arms.

Captain Paul Brown is the lucky man chosen to steer 141,000-ton Britannia from Fincantieri shipyard, and indeed, for far-flung shores in 2015.

STAR BURST SCULPTURE TO DAZZLE ON BRITAIN’S BIGGEST CRUISE SHIP A unique artwork that has taken nearly three years to complete will be one of the highlights of P&O Cruises ship Britannia when it launches in March next year.

The striking Star Burst sculpture will be the dramatic centrepiece of the atrium, reflecting Britannia’s “modern classic” style that combines contemporary design with P&O Cruises’ seafaring heritage.

BRITAIN’S BIGGEST CRUISE SHIP TAKES ART TO A NEW DIMENSION P&O Cruises’ new ship Britannia will boast Britain’s largest floating art collection, containing more than 8,000 artworks, when it launches in March next year.

The multi-million art collection represents a new approach by the company with works having been chosen to complement and enhance Britannia’s interior designs to give the feel of a luxury hotel.

BRITAIN’S BIGGEST CRUISE SHIP HERALDS NEW LUXURY SPA FIRSTS P&O Cruises will unveil the most opulent wellness facilities in its fleet as well as the largest gym and most extensive selection of classes and additional spa treatments when Britannia launches in March next year.

The Oasis Spa, run by Steiner, will boast two new features designed to appeal to couples or groups, with a private villa in the spa area, 17 private spa rooms and a fun new blowout menu, for a fabulous blow dry, style and make-up in the hair salon.

Our Quantum of the Seas Gallery...

For more photos, please check out our Facebook page

CliaUkIreland

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Black Watch, Braemar and Balmoral to undergo refurbishment at Hamburg’s Blohm+Voss in November and December 2014 Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ three ships Black Watch, Braemar and Balmoral are all due to enter dry dock at the Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg, Germany in November and December 2014, in preparation for the forthcoming 2015/16 cruise season. This is the first time that so many Fred. Olsen ships have entered dry dock within such short succession.

Work has started with 804-guest Black Watch, which arrived at Blohm+Voss on 4th November 2014. The ship will then continue on Fred. Olsen’s first-ever sellout ‘Mystery Cruise’ of 14 nights, W1417, which sails from Tilbury on 15th November 2014.

Braemar will then arrive in Hamburg on 12th November 2014, after which the 929-guest ship will depart on a three-night M1430 ‘France Mini-Cruise’ from Southampton on 20th November 2014.

Balmoral, which carries 1,350 guests, rounds off the planned dry dock works. The ship will arrive on 9th December 2014, and will leave the shipyard to start a two-night pre-Christmas L1418 ‘France Mini-Cruise’ from Southampton on 19th December 2014.

The Blohm+Voss schedule for the three Fred. Olsen cruise ships comprises various engineering works, general refurbishment and interior and exterior painting. During the dry dock, Black Watch will also see 27 cabins on Lido Deck 7 fitted with balcony terraces.

These new Balcony Terrace cabins will extend out 1.2 metres from the ship’s bulkhead, and will provide guests with an increased choice of cost-effective balcony cabins with access to the outside.

During their dry docks, Balmoral and Braemar will also follow on from Boudicca and Black Watch by having Fred. Olsen’s popular ‘Café Venus’ installed on board, serving high-quality coffee and luxury chocolates. The new Café will be created on Balmoral on Lounge Deck 7, by reconfiguring the Library area, to create a more open, sociable public space.

On Braemar, Café Venus will be installed on Lounge Deck 5 by reconfiguring the Library area, and the Card Room will be moved and integrated with the Arts and Crafts Centre on Atlantic Deck 3.

New ports of call for Thomson Cruises in Winter 2015 Thomson Cruises’ brand new winter 2015 programme includes 10 fantastic new destinations and exciting itineraries across its popular winter destinations.

NEW PLANS FOR THOMSON DREAM From winter 2015, Thomson Dream will showcase the unique offering of Cuba with its exciting new Cuban Revolution itinerary.

Cuban Revolution will allow customers to soak up everything the beautiful island has to offer as two new ports, Santiago de Cuba and Holguin, are added to the line-up. Beginning its journey in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Thomson Dream will go on to explore the two new Cuban destinations and continue its journey to spend the night in the country’s vibrant capital, Havana, before going onto Grand Cayman, and finally making its return journey back to Montego Bay. Furthermore, Thomson Dream is adding Trujillo (Banana Coast), Honduras, to its Mayan Treasure itinerary where customers can explore the rainforest or simply relax on the beautiful sandy beaches. These new ports of call join a line-up already filled with some of the Caribbean and Central America’s showstoppers, such as Costa Rica, Panama and Belize.

NEW PORTS OF CALL FOR THOMSON CELEBRATION For winter 2015 Thomson Celebration will be adding Bequia in St Vincent and the Grenadines as a port of call for its Caribbean Cocktail and Oceans Eleven itineraries. Customers can immerse themselves in the allure of the green hills and crystal blue seas in this understated, beautiful island.

ADULT-ONLY THEMED TRANSATLANTIC CRUISES Customers on Thomson Dream will for the first time experience the delights of Mindelo in Cape Verde, known for its colourful and animated carnival celebrations as it joins the Beyond the Sunset itinerary. Travelling back towards Palma in April, two new destinations will be included in the Atlantic Adventure itinerary, also on Thomson Dream, with stops in Santiago de Cuba, and an

overnight stay in King’s Wharf, Bermuda, a town rich in naval history.

NEW ITINERARY FOR THOMSON MAJESTY Sailing the shimmering blue seas of the Canary Islands in winter, Thomson Majesty is introducing two new destinations on its Island Explorer itinerary. The itinerary will now stop at Valle Gran Rey in La Gomera and Puerto de la Estaca in El Hierro. With a mixture of mountainous and volcanic terrain and local wine and cheese tasting, the destinations bring an extra element of adventure to the Canaries itinerary.

Thomson Majesty will also be offering something extra special for New Year’s Eve, giving visitors the chance to celebrate New Year watching the magnificent firework display in Funchal, Madeira, which is considered to be one of the most spectacular in the world.

CRUISE AND STAY Winter 2015 sees even more hotels introduced to the cruise and stay collection for customers looking to extend their holiday. Hotels in Jamaica and the Canaries have been added and the cruise and stay line-up includes properties from the Thomson Couples, Platinum Lifestyle and A La Carte collections. Those looking for flexible durations have the option of either three or seven night stays for the first time in Gran Canaria.

INVESTMENT IN DREAM AND CELEBRATION Both Thomson Dream and Thomson Celebration will be refurbished for 2015 as part of the cruise line’s modernisation strategy. Upgrades will include public areas such as sun decks and lounges, and the on-board dining experience will be enhanced with the introduction of a brand new a la carte restaurant on each ship.

Helen Caron, Managing Director for Thomson Cruises, says: “I’m delighted that we are able to introduce some exciting new ports for our second season with two ships in the Caribbean.

Cuba is a fantastic destination and one that our customers tell us they want to visit more, so I am sure the itinerary centred around the island will prove extremely popular.”

Princess Cruises Pays Tribute to The Love Boat, Launching Regal Princess in Star-Studded Ceremony

Iconic TV Show Celebrated for Role in Princess’ History; The Love Boat Cast Names Ship and Reunites with 25 Guests Stars on Show. Record-Breaking 50 Champagne Bottles Used to Christen Ship Commemorating Line’s 50th Anniversary.

Princess Cruises, the cruise line made famous as the backdrop of the iconic Love Boat television series, christened its new Regal Princess today with a tribute to the show as all six of the original cast members served as the ship’s godparents, and were joined by 25 of the show’s past guest stars. The star-studded Love Boat themed festivities, which also launched the line’s 50th anniversary, celebrated the role the show played in Princess Cruises’ five-decades-long history.

All six Love Boat cast members - Gavin MacLeod (Captain Stubing), Fred Grandy (Gopher, the chief purser), Ted Lange (Isaac, the bartender), Bernie Kopell (Doc, the ship’s doctor), Lauren Tewes (cruise director, Julie) and Jill Whelan (Vicki, the captain’s daughter) - pulled a lever that first sent a record-breaking fifty champagne bottles smashing against the ship’s hull as a nod to the company’s anniversary celebration, followed by the breaking of a giant Nebuchadnezzar-size 51st bottle signifying Princess Cruises’ continued future success.

Frequent show guest-star Florence Henderson served as the Master of Ceremonies and celebrities walking the 50th Anniversary gold carpet included:Loni Anderson, Joyce DeWitt, Jamie Farr, Pam Grier, Christopher Knight, Diane Ladd, Lorenzo Lamas, Carol Lawrence, Rich Little, Kristy McNichol, Lee Meriwether, Don Most, Tracy Nelson, Mackenzie Phillips, Doris Roberts, Marion Ross, Frank Sinatra, Jr., Charlene Tilton, Joan Van Ark, Dick Van Patten and Adrian Zmed. The guest star with the most number of appearances on the show, Charo, entertained guests with a classical guitar number and Jack Jones, who sang the original version of the Love Boat theme, reprised this famous song.

“The Love Boat put Princess Cruises on the map, bringing the romance and adventure of our cruise vacations into millions of viewers’ homes for the decade it was on air. So it was fitting that the cast was selected as godparents for Regal Princess as we begin our 50th anniversary celebrations,” said Jan Swartz, the line’s president.

The pilot episode of The Love Boat was shot aboard Princess’ 730-passenger Sun Princess, with Pacific Princess and Island Princess then becoming the primary floating stars of the show. Later episodes and specials were filmed aboard many of Princess’ other cruise ships in destinations around the globe. The show, which aired from 1977 to 1986, went on to become one of the highest-rated and longest-running shows on television, introducing viewers to modern day cruising and, in the process, making Princess Cruises and its ships synonymous with vacations at sea.

The 3,560-guest Regal Princess now begins her maiden season of Caribbean cruise vacations out of Ft. Lauderdale. Among the special features found onboard the ship are a dramatic multi-story atrium serving as the social hub of the ship, offering a host of dining and entertainment options; an over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship; the Princess Live! Television studio; the largest pastry shop at sea; a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light; Princess Watercolor Fantasy, a fountain and music show; the Night Sky Lounge, a new nighttime experience that enables guests to enjoy a chic and contemporary poolside nightclub under the stars, and balconies on all outside staterooms.

Princess Cruises celebrates its 50th anniversary with an incredible lineup of new dining, shopping and entertainment aboard its ships throughout 2015. Princess Cruises first set sail in 1965 with a single ship cruising to Mexico. Now 50 years later, the line is the third largest cruise line in the world and a recognized leader in taking travelers to some of the most fascinating cruise destinations around the globe.

LAST FEW PLACES Wednesday 17 December CLIA UK & Ireland Annual Dinner Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Black Watch London Cruise Terminal at Tilbury Call Dellar Davies on 01920 444 827 to book

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines invests in staff through training partnership with The Institute of Leadership and Management Award-winning Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is pleased to announce that it is working in partnership with The Institute of Leadership and Management (‘ILM’) to deliver an accredited training initiative, the ‘Supervisor and Management Development Programme’, which has been added to its Training and Development curriculum for ship-based Officers and crew.

The aim of the Programme is to provide Fred. Olsen’s Supervisors and Managers with the knowledge and skills to strengthen and build upon their success as leaders, allowing them to prepare for subsequent promotions and challenges, through ILM-accredited qualifications, within a solid framework.

David O’ Connor, Corporate Training and Development Manager for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines – an officially-recognised ILM Verified Course Facilitator – said: “Currently, we have over 200 crew signed up to our in-house ‘Supervisor and Management Development Programme’ – accredited by The Institute of Leadership and Management – at various stages.

“For Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, one of the most important factors in offering ILM-accredited training is the opportunity to motivate and ‘give back’ to our staff, who play such an integral role in the smooth-running of our fleet, providing them with an internationally-recognised certification and a real sense of pride and achievement. And of course, we are all committed to delivering world-class service to our guests at all times, and the better trained that we are for every eventuality, then the better the cruise experience will be.”

ILM CEO Charles Elvin said: “I’m delighted that Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has joined the ranks of market leading companies who are now training their staff inhouse using ILM accreditation. The investment they’re making in their managers and supervisors will ensure that both individuals and the business are able to reach their full potential and that Fred. Olsen customers receive the highest quality service.”

Under Fred. Olsen’s ‘Supervisor and Management Development Programme’ – which is also open to the cruise line’s future Supervisors, Managers and leaders – all those who sign up will receive temporary membership to the ILM, with the option to apply for permanent membership upon completion of the course.

The course module consists of 18 units, covering both theoretical and practical subjects, and has been designed in-house, tailored to Fred. Olsen’s company objectives. All the training is ship-based

and ‘cross-departmental’ – so that people from across the ship can gain the experience of seeing how other departments approach specific situations and deal with issues, and are able to learn from the different management styles that come from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and functions.

The crew can be on a contract of between four and nine months at a time, with two or three months back on shore, so there are logistical challenges for Fred. Olsen to undertaking a management development course on this scale and ensuring that all staff involved are able to undertake the training on a regular, consistent basis; however, the cruise line has been extremely encouraged by the commitment of its staff and the feedback has been very positive: Rada Simic, Spa Manager, Balmoral: “I have been with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines for over two years.

I entered this course to become a better Supervisor and to see things from a different angle. I am very grateful for this opportunity and the training has changed my way of planning, organising and overseeing the whole operation, and it has given me amazing ideas for me and my team’s improved performance.”

Manuel Sherwin Santos, Maitre D’, Balmoral “I have been with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines since June 1997 – more than 17 years, when I was 21 years old! I enrolled on the course because I want to enhance my supervisory and managerial capabilities, to be more active and knowledgeable within the business. I have enjoyed learning new, positive skills and realising that I need to consider all aspects and angles of my decision-making, especially if you are dealing with a large number of staff, colleagues and guests. I believe that this course will help me to be able achieve my future ambitions and I would like to enhance my future career within the Food and Beverage industry.”

You can find out more about Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ ILMaccredited ‘Supervisor and Management Development Programme’ with a short video at https://www.i-l-m.com/AboutILM/Why-choose-ILM/ilm-experiences/fred-olsen

Cruise experts acknowledged as agent training reaches record numbers More than 26,000 cruise training modules have been completed by 6,000 travel agents registered to CLIA UK & Ireland, an increase of over 100 per cent in the past year. The modules cover a range of topics including the many varied cruise destinations, river cruising, shore excursions and how to maximise social media, all designed to help agents increase their sales.

The training undertaken by agents within the Ocean of Opportunity cruise learning programme can culminate in them achieving the highest accolade – Master accreditation. Eight CLIA Masters joined CLIA UK & Ireland chair and Celebrity Cruises Managing Director, Jo Rzymowska, along with CLIA director Andy Harmer, at a celebratory lunch this week to acknowledge their achievements. To attain Master accreditation, agents are required to work through set learning modules, share their own first-hand experience with other travel agent members and undertake a range of specialist courses.

For further information visit www.cruiseexperts.org

Carnival Pride Launches Winter Schedule Of Seven-Day Caribbean Cruises From Port of Tampa

Establishment of CLIA Southeast Asia and CLIA North Asia Marks Big Step Forward for Cruising in the Region

Carnival Pride kicked off a winter schedule of seven-day Caribbean cruises from the Port of Tampa yesterday following an extensive $75 million dry dock that added a wide variety of Fun Ship 2.0 innovations, including four spectacular Playlist Productions shows.

Sydney, Australia, November 11, 2014 – The growth of cruising in Asia has taken another important step forward with the establishment of CLIA Southeast Asia and CLIA North Asia as the regional arms of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the world’s largest cruise industry trade association.

On its new winter schedule from Tampa, Carnival Pride departs Sundays on week-long cruises to four popular Caribbean destinations: Cozumel, Mexico; Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan; Belize City, Belize; and George Town, Grand Cayman, or Costa Maya, Mexico. Each of these destinations features beautiful beaches, unique cultural experiences and a variety of shore excursion choices, from zip lining, snorkelling and kayaking to cave tubing and exploring ancient ruins.

“We’re very excited to launch a winter schedule of Caribbean cruises from Tampa on the Carnival Pride, which is better than ever with a wide variety of new Fun Ship 2.0 dining, bar and entertainment innovations, including four new Playlist Productions shows,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO. “Not only does the Carnival Pride offer fantastic new choices for our guests it also provides our travel agent partners with an outstanding, value-packed Caribbean cruise option from Tampa for their clients,” he added.

Carnival Pride emerged from an extensive threeweek dry dock that added a variety of exciting new features that are part of the line’s Fun Ship 2.0 product enhancement initiative.

These include delicious dining choices like Guy’s Burger Joint developed in tandem with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, the full-service Bonsai Sushi, and BlueIguana Cantina serving authentic Mexican fare, as well as innovative beverage venues like the cocktail pharmacythemed Alchemy Bar, the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Pub, EA SPORTS Bar featuring a huge 16-monitor video wall, and the poolside BlueIguana Tequila Bar and RedFrog Rum Bar. A massive WaterWorks aqua park highlighted by Green Thunder, the fastest and steepest water slide at sea, along with audience favourite Hasbro, The Game Show, offering larger-than-life adaptations of the company’s iconic games, and Cherry on Top, a “candy and more store,” were also added.

Guests sailing on Carnival Pride can also enjoy four new Playlist Productions shows – 80s Pop to the Max, Heart of Soul, Getaway Island and 88 Keys: The Rock and Roll Piano Show. The new shows are highlighted in an entertaining video hosted by popular Senior Cruise Director John Heald and featuring interviews with members of Carnival’s entertainment team and exclusive behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage. The video can be viewed here.

Carnival Pride will operate from Tampa through March 2015 then reposition to Baltimore for year-round fiveto 14-day departures from that port.

CLIA Chief Executive Officer, Christine Duffy, said the transition to CLIA Southeast Asia and CLIA North Asia was perfectly timed as Asia comes to the forefront as one of the world’s most dynamic emerging regions for cruise.

“Asia ranks highly on our list of emerging cruise regions as the globalization of the cruise industry continues to gather pace,” said Duffy. “CLIA Member cruise lines are already deploying more ships in Asia, opening up more destinations, and customizing their onboard offerings to cater to their Asian guests.”

Duffy continued, “CLIA Southeast Asia and CLIA North Asia will have an influential voice as they work with government and private enterprise to address market needs, master trade distribution, create highly desirable itineraries and offer advice on port and infrastructure.”

The establishment of CLIA Southeast Asia and CLIA North Asia represents a significant transition for the Asia Cruise Association which, under the direction of General Manager and cruise industry advocate Kevin Leong, former Chairman Dr. Zinan Liu, and founding Chairman Rama Rebbapragada, has spearheaded local cruising growth since it was formed in 2009.

CLIA Southeast Asia will be chaired by Carnival Australia CEO, Ann Sherry, who brings wide experience building the cruise category in an emerging market. Royal Caribbean’s Managing Director Singapore and Southeast Asia, Jennifer Yap, will be Secretary for the new cruise industry body.

Carnival Asia executives, Paul Chong and William Harber, have joined the CLIA Southeast Asia Board.

CLIA North Asia will be chaired by Royal Caribbean’s Managing Director Asia and China, Dr. Zinan Liu, and will focus on infrastructure, advocacy and the promotion of cruise to travel industry communities in the region.

Further strengthening the influence of CLIA, which is set to host Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific on November 20 - 21, is the support of the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the Singapore Tourism Board as CLIA Global Executive Partners.

Sherry said she was honored to be appointed chair of CLIA Southeast Asia and looks forward to working with Board colleagues and CLIA worldwide.

“In terms of cruising growth, the Asia-Pacific regions are interconnected and together represent the world’s most dynamic area for cruise,” she said.

“CLIA Southeast Asia will have an integral leadership role in building the cruise category in the region, helping travel agents understand that cruising is a business opportunity for them, and encouraging investment by regional governments and authorities to open up ports and attractive cruise destinations.”

CLIA North Asia Chair, Dr. Zinan Liu, said his focus was on the implementation of the new association in the region including engagement with key partners in the region.

“North Asia is increasingly becoming a growth engine of the global cruise industry,” he said. “The growth is bringing about enormous socio-economic benefits for all the stakeholders. Like in any emerging market there is a need to tackle challenges including the lack of port infrastructure for cruise terminals, cross-border travel constraints and uncertainty of the regulatory environment.

“Leveraging the wealth of international cruise lines’ expertise, knowhow and best practices gained in other parts of the world, CLIA North Asia will be well positioned to achieve partnerships with all the stakeholders to promote the general interests of the industry and to safeguard a healthy and sustainable growth of the cruise economy in the region.”

CroisiEurope Named “Best River Cruise Line” in 2014 Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Pick Awards There were celebrations in Strasbourg yesterday as French river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, was named “Best River Cruise Line” in the 2014 Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Pick Awards.

The Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Picks Awards are chosen by Cruise Critic’s international team of editors, based on the lines and ships they feel best represent excellence in each of the designated categories.

CroisiEurope was named “Best River Cruise Line” for a number of reasons including the introduction of new ships and hotel barges, new interesting itinerary options in Europe, an expanded fleet in South East Asia, the introduction of free drinks onboard and an increased international focus.

Michel Grimm, International Sales Director, CroisiEurope, said: “It’s a great honour to be recognised as the best river cruise line by the editors of Cruise Critic. At CroisiEurope we pride ourselves on our reputation for creativity, innovation and dynamism and we are thrilled that those who know cruising best appreciate our commitment to the river tourism industry.”

FINALLY! CRUISE YEAR ROUND FROM BERLIN TO THE HEART OF PRAGUE ON THE ELBE & MOLDAU WITH CROISIEUROPE ~ Berlin–Magdebourg–Wittenberg–Meissen–Dresden–Litomerice-Prague ~ From spring 2016, it will finally be possible to cruise year round from Berlin to the heart of Prague along the Elbe and Moldau (Vltava) rivers with the launch of CroisiEurope’s MS Elbe Princesse.

This innovative ship follows in the footsteps of sister ship, the MS Loire Princesse, and has been designed using advanced paddle wheel technology which will allow it to navigate year round in the lowest waters of the Elbe – something that vessels with regular propulsion are unable to do.

The new generation ship is 95 metres long and 10.5 metres wide, with two decks and two paddle wheels on the back. It has 40 spacious outside cabins and can accommodate 80 guests in maximum comfort offering WiFi, air conditioning and heating, flat screens, hair dryer and safe. There is also a panoramic restaurant that can accommodate all guests for single-service dining, a welcoming lounge bar with a central dance floor and a large sun deck with chairs. The stylish décor in contemporary colours is in perfect harmony with the warm and convivial atmosphere onboard.

Thanks to its size, this new ship will be able to berth in the heart of towns near historical centres which is a key selling point. From April 2016, it will visit iconic destinations and sites such as Berlinl; Potsdam and the Sans Soucis Park; Wittenberg, town of Luther, Meissen and its porcelain; Dresden, the Florence on the Elbe; Elbsansteingebirge, with its natural and architectural wonders; Litomerice, one of the most beautiful cities in the Czech Republic; and Prague, the mythical golden city.

The Elbe Princesse will be built in the prestigious shipyard of Saint-Nazaire.

With its fine fleet cruising on the loveliest rivers in Europe combined with this new and innovative ambitious project, CroisiEurope continues to demonstrate its creativity and dynamism in river tourism after 38 years in the business.

For reservations and further information call CroisiEurope on 020 8328 1281 or visit www.croisieurope.co.uk

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is ‘Best Value for Money’ three years in a row, as voted by Cruise Critic experts Cruise experts at influential consumer website Cruise Critic have voted Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines ‘Best Value for Money’ in its ‘Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Picks Awards 2014’, for the third consecutive year. The winners are selected by Cruise Critic’s international team of Editors, based on the lines and ships that they feel best represent excellence in each of the 18 categories.

Adam Coulter, UK Editor of Cruise Critic, said: “The cruise industry offers a wealth of choice, and the Editors’ Picks Awards share our expert insight and provide guidance to British holidaymakers who are interested in a cruise. With cruise lines constantly improving their products this isn’t an easy task, but we have identified the lines which have excelled in order to help cruisers plan their perfect cruise, and ensure the time and money they invest is well spent.”

The Cruise Critic Editors said of Fred. Olsen: “Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines offers a more traditional cruise experience at a great value – from two-for-one offers and drinks

cheaper than UK pub prices, to tips that are lower than most in the industry. It also has great offers for solo passengers, with double cabins available at solo prices.”

Nathan Philpot, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are pleased that, for the third year running, our great-value cruises have been recognised by the expert Editors at Cruise Critic. We know that value for money is an important motivator to booking a cruise, along with the destination, and we are committed to providing a consistently high-quality cruise experience to our guests, which doesn’t cost the earth!”

Fred. Olsen has been helping guests to budget for their cruise holidays and benefit from significant cost savings with its ‘all-inclusive’ drinks package, where guests can choose from a selection of discounted drinks on board from just £10 per person, per night.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www.fredolsencruises.com To learn more about the ‘2014 Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Picks Awards’, visit http://www. cruisecritic.co.uk/editors-picks/

Crystal Cruises’ New Asia Boutique Adventures Give Insight Into Dim Sum Making, Chinese Mixology, Sumo Wrestling & More Ultra-luxury Crystal Cruises has released a new selection of Boutique Adventures - intimate shoreside excursions not available on any other cruise line – which are available on its 2015 Asia voyages. The experiences include dim sum making and mixology in Hong Kong; immersing guests in the day and life of a Shanghainese in Shanghai; and learning how Sumo wrestlers stay in shape in Tokyo.

• Learning the art of Dim Sum Making and Chinese Mixology in Hong Kong, with lunch at Tin Lung Heen, a two-star Michelin restaurant at the RitzCarlton. Afterward, participate in a mixology class at Ozone, the world’s highest bar.

• Experience Shanghai: A Day in the Life for an experience immersing guests in the culture of Shanghai. Explorers will participate in a tai chi class in the park, shop at the wet market, take a cooking class for lunch, join a calligraphy and paper cutting workshop and pay a home visit to a local family for tea.

• Enjoy a Private Viewing of Bund 26 including a private dinner on the balcony of the ABC Bank following a showing of the art and the private rooms of the bank.

Cunard Wins Top Honours in 30th Anniversary Edition of the Berlitz Cruising and Cruise Ships Guide

Cunard dominates the top five spots in ‘Top 3 Large Resort Ships’ category in the 2015 Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships Guide with Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth all appearing in this top tier. Queen Mary 2’s Grills Suites and Queen Elizabeth fill two of the three top positions in this group, which evaluates ships that carry from 2,001 to 6,500 passengers.

Queen Mary 2 has also earned top positions in new categories such as ‘Most Luxurious Suites’, and ‘Best Cruise Ship Spas’. These recently added categories make the guide even more indispensable for veteran or first-time cruise-goers.

• Master Otaru Sushi Making with this cooking workshop that includes a visit to the local food market to shop for ingredients, followed by sushi making and sake tastings with the chef at a local sushi restaurant.

Angus Struthers, Cunard Director, says: “We are honoured that Cunard continues to achieve such high acclaim from such a distinguished and valued publication. 2015 is our 175th anniversary year and it is very encouraging to see Cunard being acknowledged for delivering a truly memorable experience at sea in what will be a truly memorable year”.

• Relish in the Taste of Kyoto by visiting the local market with a Kyoto chef for cooking ingredients and indulging in the cuisines and sake unique to Kyoto.

For further information and reservations please call Crystal Cruises on 020 7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk

Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth epitomise the grandeur and luxury of the ocean-going tradition, carrying forward a heritage symbolised by their iconic Transatlantic Crossings and World Cruises.

• Observe a Traditional Tokyo Sumo Stable where Japan’s wrestlers will be immersed in their morning practice called “asa-keiko”.

New Production Show Light Up Silversea Stages All-new, visually exciting musical experiences are coming to the stages of Silversea Cruises’ five ultra-luxury ships. The new production shows will feature live acts complemented with musical tracks recorded exclusively for Silversea by renowned artists such as the London Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Seven different shows, featuring rich costuming, imaginative set designs, and special visual effects, will spotlight the talents of an international ensemble of accomplished vocalists, known collectively as The Voices of Silversea. Following is a snapshot of the three principal productions that will be performed in the main Show Lounge fleetwide: Musica Maestro: A grand ballroom is the elegant backdrop for this signature show, a 45-minute tribute to popular operatic arias and classical crossover music. Led by renowned conductor Richard Balcombe, its captivating musical score has been arranged, performed, and recorded by the London Royal Philharmonic Orchestra exclusively for Silversea guests.

Mind the Gap: Mod fashions and the iconic imagery of a London tube station propel this lively journey back to the 1960s and the British Invasion that conquered the airwaves with such legendary pop and rock stars as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Lulu, Tom Jones, and more.

Don’t Stop the Music: Guests are welcome to don their best retro dancing shoes to join in this foot-tapping, sing-along homage to the disco era’s pulsating rhythms and colourful funky fashions - and then take to the dance floor when the ship’s DJ steps in to keep the party rolling.

Four additional shows will be rotated among the ships to provide guests with a total of four full-scale musical productions on each sailing. The additional shows include Caliente, a Latin-flavoured production encompassing tunes from Spain and South America; Shaken Not Stirred, celebrating the intrigue, glamour, and sophistication embodied in 50 years of James Bond films; Première, a chronological musical tribute to some of the world’s greatest movies; and Amore, featuring timeless love songs.

“It is an honour to collaborate with the London Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the world’s leading orchestras, and we’re delighted to enrich our guests’ onboard experience with these new entertainment offerings,” said Mike Bonner, General Manager Sales and Marketing Director, UK. “The shows celebrate some of music’s most enduring genres, and will likely bring back wonderful memories of bygone days.”

CMV thank the trade for a record week

Cruise and Maritime Voyages (CMV) 0844 414 6161 have advised that following the announcement of their new ship Magellan, a record of more than 3500 bookings were received last week.

Norwegian Epic to debut new entertainment in 2015 for year-round European sailings Norwegian Cruise Line today announced a new entertainment line-up for Norwegian Epic, the award-winning ship that will be based year-round in Barcelona, Spain, starting 30 April 2015. Two new Broadway shows will take the stage as headliners: Burn the Floor in April, 2015 and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert - The Musical in October, 2015. The ship will also feature an all-new British pop music entertainment experience, The Cavern Club, bringing the legendary Liverpool venue where the Beatles performed to life at sea.

“We are excited to bring Norwegian Epic to Europe year-round and want to provide our guests with even more exciting entertainment options on the ship that first elevated the onboard entertainment experience,” said Drew Madsen, Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief operating officer. “These new world-class entertainment offerings, along with Norwegian Epic’s innovative accommodation and plethora of dining options, are the perfect combination for the European cruise market and give guests the freedom and flexibility to customise their vacation.”

Broadway sensation Burn The Floor, which has received rave reviews on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, will bring the sizzle and passion of ballroom dancing to Norwegian Epic with an all new and exciting show specifically designed for European guests beginning on her transatlantic voyage, 19 April 2015. “Ballroom Blitz,” featuring 14 dancers, a live band and two singers, is an ultimate high-voltage theatrical dance experience that explodes with jaw-dropping choreography, heartpounding music and breath-taking moves.

Based on the Oscar-winning movie, Priscilla Queen Of The Desert - The Musical is the heart-warming, uplifting comedy adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship and end up finding more than they could have ever dreamed of discovering. The Tony Award winning musical features a dazzling array of over 500 awardwinning costumes, 200 extraordinary head-dresses and a hit parade of dance floor favourites, including “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive,” and “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” The show will open on the ship’s 18 October 2015 voyage.

Norwegian Epic will also receive a whole new entertainment venue created through an exciting partnership with the owners of Liverpool’s The Cavern Club, the birthplace of British pop music. Impressively, 57 years after its opening, the original Cavern Club survives and thrives as a contemporary music venue. Norwegian will re-create The Cavern Club experience at sea, rocking guests each evening to the sounds of The Beatles, along with other international musicians. The Cavern Club will debut on the 11 October 2015 sailing.

The 4,100 passenger ship will be the largest Norwegian Cruise Line ship to ever home port in Europe year-round. Throughout 2015, Norwegian Epic will offer a variety of exciting European itineraries offering guests the opportunity to experience why Norwegian was named “Europe’s Leading Cruise Line” seven years in a row by the World Travel Awards.

For more information on Norwegian Cruise Line, or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian on 0845 201 8900 or visit www.ncl.co.uk.

Lisa Jacobs CMV’s Head of Trade Sales said “Trade interest and support has been remarkable. We have had to open our reservations department for the last two Sunday’s in order to deal with the rush of bookings and it’s very much ‘all hands on deck’ to answer calls as quickly as possible.

More and more agents are using our easy ‘book online’ system, open 24/7.”

“The 12 night CMV Maiden Magellan cruise on 15 March from London Tilbury up to Scotland, the Faroes and Iceland is filling up particularly well with the added attraction of catching the total eclipse and, conditions permitting, the Northern Lights.

The introduction of Magellan came as a complete surprise to most travel agents, as it did many of our regular passengers. It has enabled us to add Liverpool and Dundee to our range of UK departure ports plus more sailings from Tilbury, Hull and Bristol.

We will keep our agents informed of any additional help we can provide in terms of opening hours and sales material. ” Mike Hall, Head of Marketing at CMV said “Magellan is an impressive small to midsized ship adding a more contemporary twist to the traditional CMV cruise experience. We believe that there are many people who will appreciate the more expansive surroundings and facilities that Magellan offers and appreciate our ‘adult friendly’ operation. Our BOGOF early booking deals mean that customers can secure the cruise and cabin of their choice at an exceptional fare. Feedback from the trade suggests that our pricing policy is encouraging early sales at a time of the year when bookings are otherwise hard to secure.”

Agents can order supplies of the new CMV ‘Introducing Magellan’ Special Launch Edition Brochure from BP Tradegate.

For further information and promotional material, please contact the CMV Agency Sales Team on 0844 414 6140 agents@cruiseandmaritime.com.

Seadream Yacht Club Returns To Islands Kicking off The 2014/15 Caribbean Season

This weekend, Saturday, November 15, 2014, sees the 112-guest mega-yacht SeaDream I depart from Bridgetown Barbados for a seven-day round-trip voyage; and her twin sister SeaDream II embarks on a 10-night voyage from Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

This marks the start of SeaDream Yacht Club’s 2014/15 Caribbean season and its most comprehensive itinerary collection to date.

Now through April 19, 2015 the SeaDream twins will visit the most popular islands including overnights in St. Barts as well as rarely visited ports including Union Island, the Grenadines as well as Norman Island and Anegada in the British Virgin Islands. Taking advantage of the warm waters of the Caribbean, SeaDream’s complimentary watersports are a popular amenity for guests.

“With an emphasis on relaxed luxury, including watersports launching directly from the yachts’ Marina, the SeaDream Yacht Club experience is the perfect way to explore the Caribbean,” shares President Bob Lepisto. “Whether it is snorkeling off the coast of Anguilla, or paddle-boarding a secluded cove in the Grenadines, guests have many exciting options to get out on the water and explore.”

Both SeaDream I and SeaDream II feature a retractable Watersports Marina that the captain and crew can deploy in less than 30 minutes to take advantage of pristine conditions between islands. Guests that feel energetic can enjoy complimentary water toys including personal watercraft, Laser Sailboats, Hobie Cat™ Catamarans, kayaks and stand up paddleboards.

Wakeboards and water skis are available along with a Banana Boat and tube at no extra cost. For those simply seeking a bit of

sun and fun, a floating island is deployed to soak in rays and enjoy the Caribbean.

The natural beauty of the Caribbean, with its miles of beaches, private coves and brilliant turquoise water is brought to life onboard SeaDream. Each voyage is designed to highlight the region’s colourful sightseeing, wonderful dining and nightlife.

Itineraries in the Caribbean emphasize relaxation and rejuvenation and guests can take advantage of the SeaDream Spa, with the highest therapist-to-guest ratio at sea. Each voyage culminates with the popular signature Champagne and Caviar Splash™, in which bubbles and caviar are served in the surf, followed by a beach barbeque on bone china.

MSC Cruises celebrates 20 years of National Lottery with VIP extras for winners What could be better than winning the National Lottery?

Collecting your cash and then celebrating with MSC Cruises, that’s what!

This week, the National Lottery celebrates its 20th birthday. And having created more than 3,600 millionaires since the very first draw on November 19 1994 one thing is clear – lottery winners love cruising.

Enjoying a luxurious break at sea is among the top holiday choices for winners, according to Lotto organiser Camelot Group. So it seems only right that every cruise is really special.

To mark the National Lottery landmark, MSC Cruises is rolling out the red carpet to all lottery millionaires past and future. For the next 12 months, anyone who has won £1m or more will get the full VIP treatment when choosing one of our fantastic fly-cruise holidays.

The new ‘Lotto Winners’ package includes: - Take the hassle out of your journey to and from the airport. We’ll collect your party from your front door in an executive limousine and deliver you back home the same way afterwards.

- Champagne and chocolate strawberries in your cabin to toast the start of your vacation.

- Exclusive excursions. Explore destinations at your own pace in style in a luxurious private vehicle, complete with your own Englishspeaking guide (three excursions per seven-night sailing).

MSC Cruises executive director Giles Hawke said: “It’s a credit to our industry that so many lottery winners choose cruising as a mustdo holiday. Being able to visit lots of different destinations aboard modern ships and enjoy fantastic food and entertainment offers a real taste of the high life.

“Our new Lotto Winners package adds an extra bit of sparkle to an already incredible holiday. With MSC Cruises guests can enjoy the luxury of our MSC Yacht Club. This ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept offers unrivalled levels of comfort, with private dining, 24-hour butler, concierge service and spectacular suites.”

For more information see www.msccruises.co.uk or call 020 3426 3010.

MSC Cruises Takes First Step Towards Doubling Fleet Capacity As Renewed MSC Armonia Relaunching in Genoa

Celebrity Cruises celebrates two awards in the Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Picks Awards Celebrity Cruises is celebrating after being selected as a winner in the 2014 Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Picks Awards, securing ‘Best Suites’ and ‘Best Cabins’ in the prestigious annual accolade. Celebrity Cruises’ Solstice Class ships won the Best Suites category for the second consecutive year whilst Celebrity Cruises celebrated winning the award for Best Cabins for the first time.

MSC Armonia, the first of four MSC cruise ships to be enlarged and enhanced under the Renaissance Programme, was re-launched in Genoa today before a 10-day inaugural cruise to the Canary Islands.

Hundreds of journalists and travel industry representatives boarded MSC Armonia as MSC Cruises CEO Gianni Onorato unveiled the ship’s range of sensational new options and features.

Mr Onorato told a press conference in the ship’s Business Centre: “I’m very proud of what we and our partners at Fincantieri have achieved with MSC Armonia. Not only is the ship smarter and more spacious, but we have given it a new lease of life that will appeal to experienced cruise travellers and first-timers.”

The €200m Renaissance Programme is the first step in a €5bn fleet enlargement plan, which includes four new ships in two innovative classes, to be delivered by STX France and Fincantieri, in Italy, between 2017 and 2019, with options for three more by 2022.

In 2004, MSC Cruises carried 80,000 guests a year; today the company has grown by 800% and the number of guests carried reaches 40,000 a day. The fleet’s capacity is on course to be doubled by 2022, meaning 3.4 million people holidaying with MSC Cruises every year.

The new-look MSC Armonia has more balcony cabins, more spacious common areas, flexible new dining options and new dedicated clubs for younger guests of all ages. The ship also has a stunning new outdoor Spray Park – a fun-filled wet zone with interactive jets, slides and ingenious water features.

MSC Armonia is also the first cruise ship in the world to feature tailor-made areas for children that have been officially designed, equipped and endorsed by Chicco and LEGO. All these enhancements add an impressive complement to MSC Armonia’s existing amenities, such as two open-air swimming pools, distinctive restaurants and bars and the beautiful Fenice Theatre.

Key new features: • 94 beautifully appointed balcony cabins • Redesigned restaurants and bars; buffet open 20 hours a day • 20 hours of spectacular entertainment daily • Separate Baby (0-3); Mini (3-6); Juniors (7-11); Young (12-14); and Teens (15-17) clubs.

• Baby Club designed and equipped by market-leading childcare company, Chicco • Playroom designed and equipped by the world’s favourite toy producer, LEGO

The achievement comes at an exciting time for the luxury cruise line as it prepares to launch its ‘Suite Class’ experience for guests from April 2015. Suite Class will be introduced on Celebrity Cruises’ state-of-the-art ships with exclusive new benefits including a suites-only restaurant, VIP lounge and complimentary premium drinks. From the incredible Reflection Suite, with ocean views and unique cantilevered shower, to the stylish Sky Suites, Celebrity Cruises’ Suite Class experience is designed to set the standard in modern luxury holidays around the world.

As well as Suite Class guests enjoying spacious suite accommodation with balconies that showcase sweeping ocean views, they also indulge in a variety of luxury amenities including deluxe Bulgari bathroom amenities, plush robes, premium bedding and a pillow menu. A host of other extras will also be provided during the guest’s stay including reserved theatre seating for all Suite Class guests.

Jo Rzymowska, Celebrity Cruises’ managing director UK and Ireland, said: “Winning awards and being recognised for excellence is something we’re very proud of. We’re thrilled to have won these Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Picks Awards when we’re on the cusp of launching the new Suite Class onboard our ships – our already award-winning accommodation is about to get even better. Celebrity Cruises offers the opportunity to see so many destinations throughout the world, and we ensure that our guests holiday in luxury as they make their way from port to port. To be recognised for this by such an industry authority is truly outstanding.”

Sailing to hundreds of destinations across the globe, Celebrity Cruises offers guests a complete holiday experience.

Celebrity Cruises’ ships feature cutting edge design with art and photography collections, first-class dining experiences and outstanding service.

Earlier this year Celebrity Cruises was awarded first place in 10 of the categories in the Cruise Critic Cruiser’s Choice Awards, with Southampton-based Celebrity Eclipse leading the ‘Best from the UK’ category. Additional awards in the large ship categories also included Celebrity Eclipse for ‘Best for Cabins’, Celebrity Equinox which was named ‘Best for Public Rooms’ and ‘Best for Service’ in recognition of our awardwinning crew. Celebrity Century has been named best overall ship in the medium ship category, where Celebrity Cruises was also honoured with first place awards in ‘Best for Dining’, ‘Best for Fitness’, ‘Best for Service’ and ‘Best for Value’.

Celebrity Cruises also shone in the Destinations category where the brand occupied the top three spots for ‘Best Mediterranean’ with Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Equinox.

To learn more about holidays with Celebrity Cruises, visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk, call 0844 493 2043, or talk to your travel agent.

Holland America Line’s new ms Koningsdam to debut an innovative design approach When Holland America Line welcomes ms Koningsdam to the fleet in February 2016, the ship will debut a new era in design approach for the line. As the first ship in the Pinnacle class, the 2,650-guest ship will have an interior that blends a fresh, contemporary styling in perfect harmony with the line’s renowned classic elegance.

Future guests, travel agents and ship fans can now get the first look at select interior renderings on Holland America Line’s website, www.hollandamerica.com. The story of the ship will unfold online over the coming months through vibrant renderings, engaging videos, ship facts and more details about the interiors created by Adam D. Tihany and Bjørn Storbraaten.

“When guests come aboard ms Koningsdam they’ll know they’re on a Holland America Line ship, but they’ll see we’re taking a forward-thinking approach to many of the design elements,” said Stein Kruse, CEO of Holland America Group.

“Revealing the first renderings and video of ms Koningsdam enables us to give future guests an advance look at the stunning interiors and over the coming months will reveal innovative new features along with our classics hallmarks that will create a cruise experience for the travellers of tomorrow.”

At the helm of the interior conceptualization is Tihany, regarded as one of the world’s pre-eminent hospitality designers. A leader in creating luxurious and creative interiors at some of the world’s most iconic properties, Tihany has approached ms Koningsdam with an eye toward creating public spaces that reflect the tradition and signature elegance for which Holland America Line is known, while elevating the design to strike a more modern balance of past, present and future.

Focusing on fluid curves and graceful lines, light-filled spaces and the natural flow of public areas, Tihany’s metaphorical approach to the interiors of ms Koningsdam was inspired by the “architecture of music.”

“The idea was to tell a story that guests can connect with throughout their voyage,” said Tihany. “I was inspired by the thought of what you might see from the inside of a musical instrument, what the architecture of the surfaces and the geometry look like.”

Key to his concept is utilizing visual interaction, where guests actively engage with the architecture rather than passively moving through it.

“The design isn’t a literal translation of music, but a conceptual approach where we seek to evoke the feeling and beauty of an instrument with graceful lines, dramatic textures, lighting effects and use of materials,” said Tihany. “My inspirations were not only instruments, but also majestic spaces and exaggerating the feeling of height, so guests feel the grandeur of every room.”

For example, at the heart of the ship Tihany is creating visual drama with the central atrium. Soaring three decks high, the space is graced by an airy stainless-steel sculpture that represents the synthesis of a string quartet. Like music, the

experience changes as guests move around and through it, so no two perspectives are the same. The atrium is capped by a ceiling “skylight” that serves as a backdrop for subtly changing highdefinition projections. Guests will look up by day and see wispy cirrus clouds floating in an azure sky or perhaps soothing images of light in water. By evening, the atrium takes on dramatic lighting hues or reflects the starlit constellations of the night sky.

Hallmark venues reimagined with a fresh approach The main Dining Room aboard ms Koningsdam will span two floors and be framed by views of the sea. A bright interior will be inspired by a modern, global design and sets the stage for the exceptional culinary experience to come. Strong, curved architectural pillars will accentuate the soaring ceiling. Chic, custom furnishings and modern glass lighting are being fabricated especially for the ship.

The centerpiece is a curved copper sheath surrounding a two-story wine tower showcasing an impressive selection.

The iconic Queen’s Lounge has been completely reimagined as an elegant theatre and entertainment venue that spans two floors. Tihany once again drew inspiration for the space from music, nodding to the sensual curves of a violin and featuring extensive use of wood, fluid waveforms and light. With state-ofthe-art technology, the Queen’s Lounge will showcase world-class musicians and the largest dance floor on the ship.

Architect and Designer Bjørn Storbraaten Joins Tihany in blending contemporary styling with brand hallmarks Architect and designer Bjørn Storbraaten joins Tihany in bringing the ship to life in a familiar yet innovative style. With his previous work on ms Eurodam and ms Nieuw Amsterdam, Storbraaten adds continuity of the brand to ms Koningsdam, while taking elegance to the next level.

Over the coming months, even more innovative features and detailed renderings of ms Koningsdam will be released on the company’s website. Early season premier itineraries will be revealed in the coming weeks, in advance of these first ms Koningsdam sailings opening for booking on 1 December.

For more information or to book, contact Holland America Line on www.hollandamerica.co.uk or call 0843 374 2300

Andy Harmer Director aharmer@cruising.org CLIA UK & Ireland Penny Guy PR Director pguy@cruising.org First Floor, 41/42 Eastcastle Street, Adele Fitzpatrick-Foster Events and Training Manager afoster@cruising.org London, W1W 8DU Alex Holubowicz Creative and Digital Executive aholubowicz@cruising.org www.cruiseexperts.org ukinfo@cruising.org Augustus Lonsdale Membership Services Executive alonsdale@cruising.org t: +44 (0)20 7436 2449 Kathy Bortolin Office Manager & Support Executive kbortolin@cruising.org