CLIA UK & Ireland Monthly Newsletter Edition 24

Edition 24 - April 2015

Membership News

We are very happy to present you with April’s CLIA UK & Ireland Executive Partner & Cruise Line Newsletter.

So far April has been a busy time for CLIA UK & Ireland and we are delighted to report that we are now settled into our new premises in the heart of the city, close to London’s Cannon Street. Full address and new contact details are below and we will still be contactable via email with any queries you may have.

The end of March saw our first River Cruise Weekend and we are delighted with the response that we got from across the trade to help raise the profile of the River Cruise sector, so a huge thanks to all of those Cruise Lines and Executive Partners who got involved. Later on this month we welcome another huge addition to the UK Industry as Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas arrives in Southampton for her naming and Maiden Voyage.

We are very happy that we can now bring you dates for another two of our key Cruise events in 2015. The CLIA Luxury Cruise Expo will return to Dover on the 26th and 27th July. With ships from Crystal Cruises and a first CLIA visit on Windstar, tickets for this event are now available to our travel agent members.

Meanwhile the 2015 edition of our Annual River Cruise Convention will again be held in Amsterdam, with visits being offered by Amadeus River Cruises, AmaWaterways, A-Rosa, CroisiEurope, Scenic Tours, Tauck and Uniworld. Following the huge success of last year’s Convention we are delighted that

yet again we will have a stellar line-up to present to the trade between November 22nd and 23rd.

Finally, we look forward to seeing many of you at our AGM, being held on the 29th April in London. Details of our upcoming networking event, Autumn Cocktails, 21 October, will be distributed shortly, but do save the date.

Online we are delighted to have added a new resource to our Cruise Toolbox, with the addition of our new Cruise Search.

We are very hopeful this facility will continue to assist our agents in gaining more knowledge about the sector and finding the perfect cruise for their clients.

We have also updated our online CLIA Updates page with the latest Annual Cruise Report and the latest CLIA Europe Quarterly newsletter, both of which are now accessible from your Members Hub. I would also like to remind you that you have landing pages within our agent area, accessible from ‘The Bridge’ dropdown menu – please let us know if you have any updates you would like to make to that page and we would be happy to make these amends.

Should you need any assistance with logging into our site, please contact Augustus, either on alonsdale@cruising.org or 0203 582 4378.

Our new address is Room 203, Dowgate Hill House, 14-16 Dowgate Hill, London, EC4R 2SU

British Ports Continue To Attract A Record Number Of Cruise Visitors World’s Newest Cruise Ships Sail From Britain Figures released by CruiseBritain show that more passengers than ever before visited Great Britain through the country’s 57 cruise ports in 2014. 110 individual ships called into UK ports, with many ships calling on multiple occasions, and these ships brought a record 922,000 passengers on day calls, a rise of 6 per cent over 2013.

53 different cruise lines visited UK ports in 2014 from Kirkwall, Orkney in the far north to the Channel Islands and the Isles of Scilly off the south coast. Round Britain cruises remain steadily popular and allow an unusual and seamless way of exploring Britain’s diversity of coasts, castles, cities and countryside. The short sailing distances between Britain’s shores and a number of complementary countries adds to the itinerary possibilities.

‘The growth in day call passengers is the continuation of a seven-year trend and one that we and our members work tirelessly to encourage’ commented Daren Taylor, Chair of CruiseBritain. ‘2014 saw a drop in the number of passengers beginning their cruise at British ports but the introduction of P&O Cruises’ Britannia and Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas is anticipated to redress the balance. It is a glowing testament to Britain’s strength as a cruise destination that the country can attract the newest, largest and most contemporary cruise ships in the market’.

‘With 57 ports capable of welcoming a cruise vessel, Britain can offer a port for every cruise ship currently sailing - from the largest vessels carrying thousands of passengers to mid-range and boutique ships, and to the small expedition ships looking for a more remote experience,’ added Taylor. ‘As the global cruise market continues to grow, we are confident that Britain’s appeal as a cruise destination will mirror that growth.’

CruiseBritain and member ports and service providers can be found at stands 531 and 631 at this week’s Cruise Shipping Miami. The annual British Street Party held at Cruise Shipping Miami is supported by the British Consulate, Miami; UK Trade and Investment and Meantime Brewery, Greenwich.

Winning Ways At The 2015 Cruise Baltic Crown Awards

17 March,2015, Miami: At CSM today, network Cruise Baltic has awarded the “Cruise Baltic Crown Award 2015” to Michael Thamm, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Costa Crociere S.p.A. Speaking at the annual Award Reception, in front of industry guests and Cruise Baltic partners, Claus Bødker, Cruise Baltic Director said: “The reason for this nomination is to endorse our appreciation of the business brought to the Region by the deployment in the Baltic Sea of many cruise ships from both the Costa and AIDA fleets. We find the relationship between our partners and the cruise line representatives to be a friendly and effective one, resulting in high levels of cruise guest satisfaction.”

On receiving his award - presented by Claus Bødker - Michael Thamm commented: “On behalf of the Costa Group, I have accepted this Cruise Baltic Crown Award with considerable pride– it acts as recognition for all of us here involved working in the field of port and destination services.

significant difference to growing the Baltic Sea Region as a cruise destination.

“There are so many outstanding destinations in the Baltic, each worth visiting to discover the individual beauty and richness.

As cruise lines, it is in our mutual interest to actively develop our industry together, encouraging better understanding and knowledge of our worldwide destinations and looking to build even closer and stronger partnerships.”

The Baltic Sea Region’s considerable growth within the cruise industry can partly be contributed to the fascinating and unique history shared among the 10 countries surrounding the Baltic Sea. The word ‘crown’ illustrates strong bonds of royalty and acknowledges prestigious governing powers held, whether by Tsars and Regents, Kings and Queens, or heads of empires or states; and appropriately represents an emblem of victory, nobility, achievement and royal status.

Background: The Cruise Baltic Crown Award scheme was first launched in 2011. Each year the award is given to either an individual from the cruise industry - or an organisation – whose efforts have made a significant contribution towards making a

Cruise Baltic is a network of cruise destinations in the Baltic Sea offering easy access to 10 countries on a string with an ‘ocean of adventures’. The association - founded in 2004 with 12 destinations - has now grown in 2015 to 27 destinations.

Rocky Mountaineer To Offer Silverleaf Service On Rainforest To Gold Rush Route

Rocky Mountaineer, provider of inspiring journeys throughout the Pacific Northwest and majestic Canadian Rockies, is proud to announce that for the first time ever, SilverLeaf Service will be offered on the Rainforest to Gold Rush route.

The route will feature Rocky Mountaineer’s newly enhanced SilverLeaf Service featuring a delectable culinary programme that focuses on fresh, local and gourmet ingredients. Guests will enjoy seat side service, gourmet snacks, portion selection and more beverage choices including local beers and Okanagan wines throughout the journey.

Onboard the Rainforest to Gold Rush Route guests are treated to a myriad of breathtaking landscapes, including coastal rainforest, arid desert-like conditions and even ranchland that make this route so unique. They will travel through Quesnel, the Rocky Mountain Trench, Mount Robson and even the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, taking in the views through the oversized picture windows of Rocky Mountaineer’s custom-designed single-level dome coach.

The addition of the SilverLeaf Service on the route will introduce an extra 1,680 SilverLeaf seats with 840 seats on both Eastbound and Westbound trips. For more information call Rocky Mountaineer on 0800 088 5541 or visit www.rockymountaineer.com

San Juan Islands, Seattle’s best kept secret

Three CMV cruise ships ready with a drone camera for the Total Eclipse

Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) is set to have three of their ships in position off the Faroe Islands tomorrow morning and an airborne drone camera ready to, hopefully, catch the total solar eclipse.

The unique natural display of the moon passing across the sun is due to start at 8.45am on Friday 20 March, and expected to last a couple of hours. More than 2500 passengers onboard three CMV ships – Magellan, Marco Polo & Azores, will witness the event in unison.

Mike Hall CMV’s Head of Marketing, said “We have loaded the drone with its camera on board Marco Polo and have been testing take offs today. It must be the smallest ‘aircraft’ we have had on the ship’s helipad! We hope to capture on camera this most phenomenal sight, using the latest modern drone camera technology. We have been working closely with Essex based company, Pixelwork, who has drone pilots on board.

Everyone is hoping for fine weather, especially the passengers on board three of our ships who have all been issued with special viewing glasses.”

The islands have been declared a National Monument by President Obama and are of the hidden gems in the Pacific North West. Visitors can drive along Whidbey Island and take the ferry crossing from Anacortes or hop on the Victoria Clipper, straight out of Seattle harbour. For a quick daytrip, head to Lake Union and fly to Friday Harbor on a seaplane with Kenmore Air. Consisting of 172 Islands and reefs, San Juan County is located just a boat ride West of Seattle. The four main island are, San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island and Shaw Island and it is here that most activities take place.

The water surrounding the San Juan Island house some to extraordinary wildlife. In spring, Steller Sea Lions will gather on the beach to enjoy the sun and pods of Orcas call these waters home from mid-April until early October. You can watch them from a distance by boat or from the shore, or be adventurous and go kayaking, paddle your way towards these majestic creatures.

River Cruises Continue Growth In Popularity As UK Bookings Climb 24th March, 2015 – The popularity of river cruises has continued to grow with the number of UK passengers taking a holiday on waterways in Europe and further afield growing by 6% in 2014, according to figures released today by CLIA UK & Ireland.

The number of British travellers taking a river cruise grew by almost 8,000, taking the total number to 139,400 in 2014.

Europe remains by far the most popular region for UK travellers to take a river cruise accounting for 86% of all passengers. Within the Continent, the River Danube’s popularity continued to soar, growing 41%, whilst cruises on the Danube and Rhine rivers grew 37%.

Cruises on Russia’s rivers grew in popularity too, climbing 15%, whilst further afield, cruises on rivers such as the Mekong are up 55%, and in India, rivers including the Ganges and Brahmaputra are up 24%.

A key reason for the growing popularity of river cruises is the evolution of the holiday experience with the arrival of new, larger ships with greater on board amenities. A third of European river cruise ships have been built within the last ten years - a quarter within the last five. These offer the kind of multiple dining venues, spa facilities and range of cabins with balconies which have already combined to transform the experience offered on many ocean cruise ships.

The cruise industry’s investment in new ships is set to continue with 16 CLIA member river vessels due to be launched in 2015 alone.

Andy Harmer, Director of CLIA UK & Ireland, says: “With the continued investment in new, more innovative ships and the everincreasing choice and diversity of itineraries in Europe and further afield, it’s no surprise that more UK passengers than ever are opting for river cruises as their holiday choice.”

Later this week, CLIA UK & Ireland will launch its first ever River Cruise Weekend. Running from 26th – 30th March, 2015, it has been created to raise the profile of river cruise holidays and the diversity of great destinations available. Some of the world’s leading river cruise lines are offering a host of exclusive deals and added-value offers on a range of 2015 and 2016 cruises.

Consumers and travel agents are also being invited to post their photos of river cruise destinations and reasons to love river cruise holidays with the hashtag #lovecruise The photographs will be placed on CLIA’s Facebook page, with a winner selected at random at the end of CLIA River Cruise Weekend who will receive an iPad mini.

Further information on the 2015 CLIA UK & Ireland River Cruise Weekend can be found by visiting www.cruiseexperts.org

Crystal Cruises Offers Big Savings For Families On Enriching Autumn & Winter Sailings

Crystal Cruises is offering tremendous savings on multi-generational family travel on more than a dozen of its ultra-luxury cruises this autumn and winter, with complimentary berths for kids and a host of perks for families travelling together.

From September through December, kids under 17 can sail free in a third berth with two full fare adults, while groups and families of six or more also enjoy additional shipboard credits of up to $400 per stateroom, a $500 credit toward a Crystal Private Adventure, family photo and other benefits offered with the line’s “Crystal Family Memories” programme. The limited offer is available up until the 30th April “Book Now” deadline with all-inclusive fly/cruise fares for applicable sailings starting from £1,673 per person.

Sailing through the Mediterranean and Western Europe, New England/Canada and the North American East Coast, South America and the Caribbean, the voyages feature a selection of destinations rich in history and cultural pursuits as well as enriching adventures that only Crystal can deliver. Crystal Adventures ashore allow inquisitive guests and junior cruisers to explore the ruins of Pompeii (from Sorrento); take painting lessons from a local artist in Santorini; experience an up close encounter with dolphins at Prospect Reef in Tortola; explore the rich array of marine life aboard a submarine in Aruba; and even enjoy South American holiday customs in Brazil.

Onboard, stimulating enrichment opportunities continue for young travellers. Crystal’s purpose-built Fantasia and Waves children’s and teens’ facilities – unique in luxury cruising – also feature events and top video games and toys. On select voyages, junior activity directors arrange programmes for little ones, older kids and teenagers.

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

Norwegian Cruise Line launches Cruise Highlights Brochure for the 2016/17 season Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled its Cruise Highlights Brochure for the April 2016 – April 2017 season. The brochure concentrates on the wide choice of European itineraries, with four of Norwegian’s ships cruising in European waters again in summer 2016. Norwegian Epic will continue to be deployed in Europe year-round having been home ported in Barcelona for the first time in the 2015/16 season.

The brochure also includes year-round cruises to the Caribbean on board Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Getaway from Miami, Norwegian Gem’s new Caribbean cruises from Puerto Rico’s capital San Juan and sailings to both the Caribbean and Panama Canal on board Norwegian Pearl, as well as cruises in Hawai’i (from/to Honolulu), South America, Alaska and Canada & New England.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Cruise Highlights Brochure is available now and can be ordered or viewed online via www.ncl.co.uk. Travel partners can view and order the Brochure at www.tradegate.co.uk.

Worldwide Itineraries Eight of Norwegian’s worldwide itineraries – including year-long seven-night cruises from Miami on board Norwegian Escape, the company’s latest creation, and its “little sister” Norwegian Getaway – are also part of the Cruise Highlights Brochure. Norwegian Pearl will also sail from Miami to the Caribbean including a partial transit of the Panama Canal between November 2016 and April 2017, whilst Norwegian Gem will sail new itineraries from San Juan, Puerto Rico to the most beautiful Caribbean Islands. Pride of America will offer her unique year-round seven-night cruises from Honolulu around Hawai’i’s four main islands, whilst Norwegian Sun cruises to Cape Horn again sailing between Valparaíso (Santiago de Chile) and Buenos Aires from November 2016 to March 2017.

In summer 2016 Norwegian Cruise Line will have three ships cruising in Alaska.

Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Jewel will sail from Seattle on seven-night cruises between May and September, while Norwegian Sun will sail on seven-night cruises between Vancouver and Seward. Guests cruising to Canada and New England on board Norwegian Dawn in September 2016 for seven nights between Boston and Quebec City may look forward to a colourful Indian summer.

For more information and to book these exciting new itineraries, contact a travel professional, call 0845 201 8900 or visit www.ncl.co.uk

Industry Recognition For Althea Palmer, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Awarded “2015 Cruise Copenhagen Ambassador” At a presentation held this week at Cruise Shipping Miami, Althea Palmer has been recognised as ”Cruise Copenhagen Network Ambassador 2015”. Currently her role is Account Manager for the Product Development Division of the Global Tour Operations Department, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., with responsibility for shore excursions in Scandinavia and several other countries. ”Teamwork and long-lasting friendships” is the Copenhagen slogan, which reflects the importance of both efficiency and personal relationships in the destination’s work with the cruise industry. With this in mind and for the fifth year in a row, Cruise Copenhagen Network (CCN) has announced its ‘2015 Ambassador Award’ in Miami.

Recipient Althea Palmer received her accolade from Claus Bødker, Cruise Copenhagen Director. Speaking at the presentation, he said: “The Ambassador Award is presented annually to an industry personality, who has been an active part of placing Copenhagen, or Denmark on the global cruise map. Althea has more than assisted us in achieving our mission of bringing cruise business to our part of the Baltic Sea region.”

Althea responded: “I am honoured to represent my company and accept this prestigious award with pride.

For many years Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has been bringing cruise business to Copenhagen and Denmark on ships in our fleet; the many attractions of the region prove popular with our passengers and long may the relationship continue to be a mutually beneficial one.”

APT leads the way with launch of new 2016 Europe Brochure GUIDED TOURS

Outstanding offers, & RIVER CRUISES new ships, a new cruise through the Bordeaux region and all-inclusive luxury are just a few of the highlights of APT’s 2016 Luxury European River Cruising brochure, with 20 inspiring cruise itineraries showcasing the very best of Europe’s iconic waterways.

• New Bordeaux river cruise Revealing the majestic beauty of the Dordogne and Garonne Rivers, the new 8-day Grand Bordeaux River Cruise explores rural south-west of France.

Highlights include a private dinner at Bordeaux’s Château Pape Clément, enjoyed with perfectly paired wines from the estate’s 13th-century vineyard; a visit to a caviar estate for a tour and a tasting; and a visit to a family-owned cooperage before a wine tasting in Ludon. Prices for the 8-day Grand Bordeaux River Cruise start from £1,995 per person twin share, with departures from May to November 2016.

• More 15-day Royal Collection river cruises Marvel at the beautiful and varied landscapes of France from north to south on the Romantic Seine & Rhône; or explore the treasures along two of Europe’s most picturesque rivers on the Rhine & Moselle Discoveries.

• Two New Ships Two new state-of-the-art river ships join the superlative European fleet in 2016 – luxurious 164-passenger vessels MS AmaStella and MS AmaViola.

Akin to a floating five star hotel, guests will enjoy onboard facilities including a sun deck with heated pool and a ‘swim-up’ bar; a massage, hair and beauty salon; complimentary Wi-Fi; exclusive Twin Balcony SuitesTM; and up to five unique dining options, including the Chef’s Table Restaurant.

• More Freedom APT are proud to offer even more choice in 2016, with a diverse selection of 59 sightseeing experiences in 28 destinations across its’ Royal Collection cruises. Available in select destinations, Freedom of ChoiceTM lets guests choose the activity or restaurant that most interests them from a variety of options – all at no additional cost.

Options include truffle hunting in Viviers; a canal boat cruise in Amsterdam and a visit to the famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna.

• Set sail and save with APT’s early booking savings APT is offering incredible early booking savings of up to £2,600 per couple across the full range of 2016 European river cruises until 31 May 2015. For example, save up to £2,400 per couple on its popular 15-day Magnificent Europe river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest. The offer is valid on all cabin categories for departures between March and December 2016.

The cruise is priced from £2,195 per person, twin share, and travels through five countries: Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary.

Highlights include the three exclusive experiences; a journey aboard the luxurious Majestic Imperator train, an authentic replica of the Imperial Royal train of the Hapsburgs; a private visit to Namedy Castle, including a cocktail reception and lavish royal banquet; and a private musical soiree at Vienna’s newly refurbished City Palace, featuring members of the Mozart Boys’ Choir.

Offers are valid on all bookings made by 31 May 2015. Terms and conditions apply, and offer is subject to availability.

• No single supplements on selected 2016 cruises and dates APT is waiving the solo supplement across selected 2016 European Royal Collection cruises, representing a saving of up to £2,550 for solo travellers. This offer is available on selected dates and availability is limited.

For further information, please contact APT on 0800 046 3002 or visit aptouring.co.uk/royal

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Black Watch to commence inaugural cruise season from Liverpool in Spring 2015 Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ 804-guest ship Black Watch is due to commence her first-ever cruise programme from Liverpool’s Pier Head Cruise Terminal on 31st March 2015, with a 13-night ‘Canary Islands Easter’ cruise – for what will be the company’s third season from the popular North Western port. In all, Fred. Olsen is offering 15 sailings from Liverpool in 2015/16, which is an increase on the 11 cruises that it undertook from the city last year.

Fred. Olsen is offering a variety of exciting worldwide itineraries from Liverpool in 2015/16, including a 16-night ‘Rugged & Rural Canada’ journey, an 18-night ‘Canaries Christmas & Funchal Fireworks’ sailing and a two-night ‘Dublin Mini-Cruise’ over the Summer, to sample the famous Irish ‘craic’.

Nathan Philpot, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “This year, the City of Liverpool will welcome our most iconic ship, Black Watch, to its shores, and we look forward to receiving the same warm reception from the people of Merseyside as her sister ship, Boudicca, has experienced over the past two years. With its stunning vistas and proud maritime heritage, there is something very special about cruising from Liverpool, and it is a tremendous benefit to be able to offer our guests the chance to set sail from the world-famous Pier Head.”

Norwegian Star shines with new dining and entertainment venues as ship readies for Europe season Norwegian Cruise Line welcomed Norwegian Star back into service on 17 March 2015, following a two-week dry dock where the ship received numerous enhancements and new dining and entertainment venues as she readies for her busy summer season sailing the Baltic Capitals and Norwegian fjords from Copenhagen.

As a part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s NEXT Program, bringing new enhancements and experiences to the youngest fleet amongst leading North American cruise lines, Norwegian Star follows Norwegian Jewel as the third ship in the Norwegian fleet to receive updates since the programme launched in 2014. Highlights of the ship’s new features include two complimentary dining outlets, enhanced offerings in the popular Ginza Asian restaurant and Norwegian’s first Five O’Clock Somewhere Bar. “Our guests can dine like nowhere else at sea with Norwegian’s Freestyle Dining and these exciting new venues on Norwegian Star make it even easier, more exciting and more fun for guests to enjoy the freedom and flexibility that only a Norwegian cruise can offer,” said Andy Stuart, president and chief operating officer of Norwegian Cruise Line.

Parrotheads and patrons looking to escape and unwind can visit and enjoy the fleet’s first Five O’Clock Somewhere Bar, in an exclusive partnership with Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville®. The newest watering hole will serve up signature margaritas and “boat drinks” such as the “Who’s to Blame® Margarita,” the ice cold LandShark Lagers and more, coupled with nightly live musical performances.

Norwegian Star’s popular guest favourite Asian fusion restaurant, Ginza, can now be enjoyed on a complimentary basis, as the previous $15 cover charge has been eliminated. In addition to a full complimentary menu that now includes delicious dishes from a dedicated Noodle Bar such as traditional Chinese noodles, wok-fried specialties, and dim sum favourites, Ginza Asian Restaurant will now also feature exciting new à la carte offerings such as Japanese Hot Rock Ishiyaki for a nominal fee and a sushi menu developed by expert Sushi Chef Yuki Ieto. The new mouth-watering sushi and sashimi pieces such as the Sashimi Hamachi Poblano, Ten Shades of Grey Roll and more will be served at the restaurant’s sushi bar or guests can also choose from four specialty rolls directly from a moving sushi belt, a first for the cruise industry.

Norwegian Star has also been retrofitted with the popular O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, a 24-hour complimentary restaurant that serves up local traditional pub fare in a friendly neighbourhood-pub setting. In addition, the ship’s Moderno Churrascaria, the Brazilian-style steakhouse, was relocated to a more intimate setting on Deck 13 and Sugarcane Mojito Bar, first introduced on Norwegian Getaway, was added adjacent to the new restaurant.

A number of additional guest area enhancements included: updates to the Casino and Photo Gallery, new carpets and flooring throughout guest areas, window replacements, upgrades in galley areas and updates to the pool deck. Norwegian’s innovative digital signage, first introduced on Norwegian Breakaway, has also been added to the ship. The interactive touch screen signs allow guests to order specialty items, get directions and reserve dining and shore excursions simply with a scan of their stateroom key, providing even more freedom and flexibility for guests to create their ideal holiday experience.

Technical modernisations also took place during the dry dock. The ship has received an Azipod hydrodynamic upgrade and stateof-the-art silicone paint on the hull, in order to further improve fuel efficiency. Additional significant technical and safety updates include: lifeboat and tender boat release systems upgrade; thrusters and stabiliser maintenance; and ballast and bilge piping replacement.

Norwegian Star will spend her summer season sailing from Copenhagen with a number of seven to 14-night itineraries through the Baltic Capitals and Norwegian fjords. Norwegian Star’s nine-night sailing through the Baltic Capitals will feature culture-rich ports of call including Warnemunde, Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland; and Stockholm, Sweden.

To book a cruise on Norwegian Star, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian on 0845 201 8900 or visit www.ncl.co.uk.

Cunard’s Main 2016 Programme Highlights Richness and Variety Of Cruises And, After 175 Years, Still The Only Scheduled Atlantic Service Today, Cunard announces its exciting 2016 main programme of cruises, where between May and December the fleet will travel over 205,000 nautical miles visiting incredible places across Europe and around the World. Between them Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth will call at 100 destinations in 34 different countries, including five maiden calls. Each cruise, whether it’s a three-night short break or a 24- night Caribbean round trip will deliver luxury on a grand scale for all those on board.

Programme Highlights: • Five maiden calls for the fleet: Gaspe (Canada), Genoa (Italy), Pointe-a-Pitre (Guadeloupe), Saguenay (Canada) and Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides.

• Top 10 destinations in 2016: Boston, (USA), Cagliari (Italy), Flaam (Norway), Monte Carlo (Monaco), Mykonos (Greece), Philipsburg (Saint Maarten), Quebec (Canada), St Petersburg (Russia), Tallinn (Estonia) and Venice (Italy).

•10 overnight calls in spectacular destinations: Amsterdam (Netherlands), Barcelona (Spain), Istanbul (Turkey), Madeira (Portugal), Geiranger (Norway), Quebec (Canada), Reykjavik (Iceland), Boston, (USA), St Petersburg (Russia) and Venice (Italy).

• 14 Evenings in port (ship departs 2100 hours or later): Barcelona (Spain), Bergen (Norway), Dubrovnik (Croatia), Invergordon (UK), Kotor (Montenegro), Kusadasi (Turkey), Madeira (Portugal), Monte Carlo (Monaco), Mykonos (Greece), Istanbul (Turkey), Tenerife (Spain), Trieste (Italy) and Valencia (Spain).

• Verona Opera event cruises: In 2016 the Mediterranean Fly programme provides an opportunity for passengers to attend the Arena di Verona Opera festival. It is a summer festival of opera located in the city of Verona, Italy. Large-scale opera performances are given in an ancient Roman amphitheatre, which was capable of holding 30,000 spectators. Performances traditionally begin at dusk and spectators are given small candles to light as darkness falls and the performances begin, creating a unique and truly unforgettable atmosphere. There are three opportunities where an overnight stay in Venice will allow passengers to take an evening tour to Verona and these can be taken on seven-, 14 and 21-night sailings.

Angus Struthers, Cunard Director, says: “Cunard’s 2016 main programme offers incredible richness and variety, with itineraries that appeal to all. From three-night short European breaks to more exotic 24- night Caribbean cruises, with cruises departing from the comfort of our home port, Southampton, to fly cruising in the Mediterranean, all on board our iconic three ship fleet.

“And, of course, our flagship, Queen Mary 2, as the world’s greatest liner, will continue to provide an experience that is truly unique in travel – our Transatlantic Crossings to or from New York.

“Research has shown that it is important to strike the right balance between port days and sea days on any cruise. This is even more important on a Cunard cruise because the ships are a destination in themselves. The 2016 itineraries have been designed to offer plenty of time on board for passengers to relax and experience all the ships have to offer.

“All Cunard cruises in 2016 have a sea day on the first day of the voyage so that passengers can settle in and familiarise themselves with the ship; the majority of the cruises also have a sea day on the day before disembarkation to allow passengers time to relax and pack before leaving.

“The destinations visited are one of the main reasons why people choose to take a cruise. The most iconic destinations all share qualities exemplified by Cunard such as history, glamour, romance and renown. Our 2016 cruises focus on our top-rated ports, which continually receive the highest scores for customer satisfaction, and passengers can visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Pier Head in our ‘spiritual’ home in Liverpool where the magnificent Cunard Building stands. The Building celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2016 and we’re delighted Queen Elizabeth will be calling at Liverpool to salute this icon”.

Latest analysis shows continued rapid growth of cruise tourists sourced from China in 2015 Get the latest analysis and news on the development of the Chinese, Taiwanese and South Korean regional cruise market from this important report which is now available for immediate download from G. P. Wild (International) Limited’s website www.gpwild.com.

The research indicates that over 47 million Chinese could take a cruise if the level of market penetration reached current US levels. At the moment market penetration is only around 0.05%. High rates of double digit expansion are expected to continue in 2015 as the levels of affluence in China continue rise and the amount of capacity deployed increases.

To find out more about where the growth and future opportunities lie, order your copy of the China, Taiwan and Korea Regional Cruise Market Report now from www.gpwild.com or it can also be ordered by phone or fax Tel: +44 1444 413931 Fax: +44 1444 441952.

Renewed And Enhanced MSC Sinfonia Returns To Service Second MSC Cruises Ship Completes Renaissance Programme Overhaul London, 27 March 2015 – MSC Cruises, the world’s fourth largest cruise line and largest privatelyowned cruise company, and market leader in the Mediterranean, South America and South Africa, announces that MSC Sinfonia has left Genoa, Italy, to resume service following ground-breaking enlargement and enhancement work at Fincantieri’s shipyard, in Palermo, Italy.

MSC Sinfonia entered drydock in January and returns to duty ten weeks later with renewed amenities and enriched onboard spaces for cruise guests. The ship now has even more balcony cabins, more spacious public areas, a greater choice of restaurants and new clubs dedicated to younger guests, including the outdoor Spray Park with exciting waterfalls and water slides.

Thanks to recently agreed partnerships between MSC Cruises and best-in-class childcare and toy brands, MSC Sinfonia also has special kids’ areas equipped with Chicco and LEGO products.

MSC Sinfonia will now set sail first for a mini cruise to Ajaccio, Barcelona and Marseille before heading out of Genoa on March 31 for a series of western Mediterranean cruises, with calls in the Canary Islands, Madeira, mainland Spain and Portugal.

On May 6 the ship will leave Genoa for the seas of northern Europe and a busy summer of seven-night itineraries. Travellers on MSC Sinfonia will be exploring the fjords along the Norwegian coast or the jewels of the Baltic: Copenhagen, Helsinki, Stockholm, Saint Petersburg and Tallinn.

MSC Sinfonia is the second MSC Cruises ship to undergo restyling and extension, after sister ship MSC Armonia, which returned to sea in November 2014. In April, MSC Opera will sail to Fincantieri’s shipyard, in Palermo for her 10-week enhancement work and at the end of August 2015, MSC Lirica will also undergo her Renaissance, with a return to sea scheduled for end of June and end of October respectively.

MSC Cruises also recently announced that MSC Seaside, the first of its next generation Seaside class of ships, will sail year-round from Miami to the Caribbean, starting November 2017. In addition, MSC Cruises’ Miami-based operations will benefit from a newly renovated and expanded dedicated berth and terminal at PortMiami, a project that attests to the company’s increasing focus on the North American market and to providing guests with outstanding service.

MSC Cruises, which has grown by 800% in capacity since 2004, carried 1.67 million guests and achieved strong financial results in 2014, with a turnover of €1.5 billion. In addition, the company is forecasting an additional 10% growth in 2015.

The €200 million Renaissance Programme was undertaken to refit and extend four ships of the MSC Cruises fleet, and involves bisecting the ship before inserting a new 24-metre section into the space.

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

CLIA announces a series of dedicated river events as a record number of Brits take to the world’s waterways Monday 20 March: As the popularity of river cruises continues to increase with record numbers of UK passengers, CLIA UK & Ireland has unveiled details of a series of events designed to help travel agents take advantage of this growing sector of cruising.

The first, a River Cruise Masterclass, is a daytime event taking place in London on 7 July and will feature dedicated training on all aspects of river cruising including how to increase sales, together with the opportunity to hear from CLIA member river cruise operators. Registration is now open.

On 17 September, the evening River Cruise Showcase will take place in Manchester when agents can take advantage of networking with 12 different river operators offering itineraries across the world. Registration opens on 7 July.

And in November, the ever popular River Cruise Convention will take place in Amsterdam with a record eight ships being available for visits. The fourth River Cruise Convention takes place on 22 & 23 November with ships from Amadeus River Cruises, AMA Waterways, A-Rosa, CroisiEurope, Riviera Travel, Scenic Tours, Tauck and Uniworld. Five of the ships will be brand new to the event for 2015.

CLIA UK & Ireland director, Andy Harmer said: “With the continued investment in new, more innovative ships and the ever-increasing choice and diversity of itineraries in Europe and further afield, it’s no surprise that more UK passengers than ever are opting for river cruises as their holiday choice. The CLIA river events are designed for both those agents who already sell river and those who want to break into this sector.”

He continued: “Europe remains by far the most popular region for UK travellers with the River Danube growing by a staggering 41%. Further afield, cruises on Russia’s rivers also grew in popularity along with the Mekong, the Ganges and Brahmaputra.”

Wonderful River Cruise Journeys Across The Globe: A Seasonal Guide From River Cruise Line Experts

26 March, 2015 – As the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland celebrates it’s first-ever River Cruise Weekend (26-30 March, 2015), leading river cruise experts have put together a calendar of the best river cruise experiences for each month of the year.

With a total of 16 CLIA member river ships being launched in 2015 alone, there’s never been a better time to experience the wonderful waterways of the world. From the floating markets along the Mekong, to the astounding Dutch tulips in full bloom, this river cruise guide from seasoned professionals will ensure the perfect experience for both regular and new to cruise holidaymakers.

April: The Loire – recommended by CroisiEurope As the days begin to get longer and temperatures begin to rise, April is the perfect time to discover the Loire’s rich cultural heritage including areas such as Saint Nazaire, Ancenis, Angers, the Chateaux of the Loire Valley, Saumur and Bouchemaine.

Enjoy a slightly lower number of tourists at this time of the year, while spotting up to 300 stately homes and chateaux set to take your breath away.

May: The Rhine – recommended by Emerald Waterways Experience the warm May sun as you cruise through the stunning UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge for an unforgettable river cruise experience. Play ‘spot the castle’ upon the steep gorges that line what is undeniably known as the jewel of Europe’s rivers.

June: The Seine – recommended by Tauck Cruise the Seine in June to coincide with the anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, as well as enjoying the longer sunsets against the backdrop of architecturally rich Paris. This trip can be finished off with a visit to Giverny, the previous home and inspiration of Claude Monet.

July: Burgundy & Provence – recommended by Avalon Cruises The ‘Burgundy & Provence’ river cruise passengers attend the Vienne Jazz Festival, an annual event on the European and World Jazz scenes. Cruise highlights include guided sightseeing in Paris and Lyon, wine tasting in Beaune, visits to the medieval cities of Tournon and Viviers, the fortified city of Avignon and the capital of Provence - Arles.

August: Austria - recommended by Emerald Waterways The warm summer months are perfect for a trip down the Danube, where you can visit destinations including Melk, a pretty town situated in Austria’s wine-growing region. Here, you can sample the local tipple while you dine al-fresco.

September: The Rhine – recommended by The River Cruise Line Cruise through the magnificent Rhine Valley for the annual Rhine in Flames fireworks display to celebrate the harvest of Riesling grapes. This event is celebrated by tourists from across Europe and beyond, whether a regular cruise goer or first-timer, this spectacular display is set to thrill.

October: Germany – recommended by Avalon Cruises A visit to Germany in October can only mean one thing, Oktoberfest 2015 – the world’s largest funfair (19 Sept – 4 Oct).

A beer-tasting river cruise is a great way to sample a variety of German and Austrian beers whilst admiring the stunning scenery from the river.

November: Africa – recommended by AmaWaterways Escape the cold British weather in November and go further afield for a winter sun river cruise holiday in Africa. For a once in a lifetime trip, head for the Chobe River where you can view spectacular game as you cruise through destinations including Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

December: The Rhine – recommended by Tauck Heading for the Rhine in December gives you the chance to see beautifully-lit historic towns and visit traditional Christmas markets along the river. Enjoy plenty of glühwein (mulled wine) whilst meandering down the river through both France and Germany.

January: Vietnam & Cambodia – recommended by APT Best visited during the dry season in January, experience the essence of South East Asia during a Mekong River cruise as it flows from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap. Stunning experiences include seeing unique cultures, floating markets, quaint villages and amazing temples.

February: New Orleans – recommended by American Cruise Line Explore the music, culture, history and cuisine of the lower Mississippi river, known as the finest waterway in the whole of the US. For a comfortably cool temperature, visit in February to enjoy the vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations (9 February, 2016) along with the colourful and eclectic community.

March: Holland & Belgium – recommended by AmaWaterways Visit in March at the start of the legendary tulip season when the bulbs are in full bloom, creating carpets of colour across the vast and beautiful landscape of these classically European countries.

This is supplemented by the chance to visit the historic cities of Amsterdam and Bruges.

Say “I Do” to new weddings at sea with Norwegian Cruise Line Engaged couples dreaming of exchanging vows while sailing into the sunset can now do so, as Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that the line will begin offering legally recognised weddings at sea performed by the ship’s captain from this month on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, and on Norwegian Escape when she launches this autumn.

Norwegian’s Wedding At Sea package includes everything couples need to celebrate their nuptials, including a bridal bouquet and matching boutonniere, champagne toast, wedding cake and more, plus an experienced wedding coordinator to assist them every step of the way during the planning process. Once on board, they will enjoy their big day stress free, as onsite wedding coordinators handle all of the day’s details so the happy couple can relax and enjoy their special day. The on-board ceremonies will be performed by the ship’s Captain, with the couple’s marriage license issued by the Bahamas.

In addition to weddings at sea, Norwegian also offers bespoke wedding experiences in one of the line’s spectacular ports of call. Whether they choose to tie the knot overlooking the sparkling ocean, atop a majestic glacier in Alaska, or under a canopy of palm trees on an exotic Caribbean beach, couples planning their dream destination wedding with Norwegian can select a Harbourside Ceremony, performed on board while the ship is docked in select ports of call, or Destination Ceremony, performed on shore in select ports of call.

Ceremonies are available in a wide range of destinations - including beautiful destinations in Canada, Mexico, Europe, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. From a romantic, intimate ceremony in Santorini, Greece to an elaborate portside affair in Maui with dozens of wedding guests, engaged couples sailing with Norwegian can commemorate the most important day of their life as they’ve always imagined it.

With a wide range of packages available, Norwegian offers everything that couples need for their perfect celebration. All packages include an officiant or ship officer to perform the ceremony, on-site wedding coordinator, private ceremony location, ceremony vows, bouquet and matching boutonniere, pre-recorded ceremony music, a bottle of sparkling wine, keepsake wedding certificate and wedding cake.

Norwegian is also pleased to offer legal same-sex ceremonies, available in destinations where same-sex marriages are recognised by local law, including Boston, Hawai’i, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, Vancouver, Tampa, Miami and Port Canaveral.

Norwegian also offers a wide selection of enhancements and services that couples can choose from to further personalise their celebration, including spa and beauty treatments, flowers (including custom orders), professional photography and videography, transportation to and from the ship or wedding location, priority check-in, and a variety of wedding reception options, ranging from an elegant cocktail reception with gourmet selections and open bar to a four-course sit-down luncheon with wine service.

For couples who wish to re-confirm their love while at sea, Norwegian’s Vow Renewal package offers married couples the opportunity to celebrate their love all over again with a private vow renewal ceremony performed by one of the ship’s officers. The package includes ceremony music, a romantic single red rose, champagne toast, a celebration cake for two, a commemorative vow renewal certificate, an 8x10 professional portrait in an engraved frame, sparkling wine, canapés and chocolatecovered strawberries delivered to their stateroom the evening of the ceremony.

Honeymooners, too, can take advantage of all that Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising has to offer including romantic dinners for two in the line’s signature restaurants; pampering couples spa treatments in Norwegian’s award-winning Mandara Spas; and adventurous excursions in exciting ports of call.

New EXPERIENCE.tv episode now online: Accommodation on board

As featured in EUROPA 2’s current cruise brochure April 2015 – March 2016, two types of suite have been given new names and the inclusive services in these categories have been adapted accordingly.

The 52 m2 (560 ft2) Spa Suites are now known as “Grand Ocean Suites”. In this category, there is no longer the privilege of a personal butler, which means that the cruise price has been reduced accordingly.

The Grand Suites on decks 8 and 10 have been renamed as “Penthouse Suites” to reflect their location on the upper decks. The cruise price for the Penthouse Suites on deck 10 has been increased slightly to reflect this. This new EXPERIENCE.tv episode (3:44 mins) focuses on “Accommodation on board” and showcases how appealing the choice of on-board accommodation is for the guests. Click here to see the latest film online: http://www.hl-cruises. com/experiencetv “The EUROPA 2 provides a generous amount of space throughout the ship; and our design concept provides all suites exclusively with their own veranda, providing unobstructed ocean views”, explains Julian Pfitzner, Director Product Management EUROPA 2.

The highest living standards from the first category: The EUROPA 2 provides the highest living standards from the very first suite category upwards. All 141 Veranda Suites measure 35m2 (376 ft2), including the veranda, an optically-separated living area with recamier, a walk-in wardrobe, a bath tub and shower also form part of the standard equipment. The 59 Ocean Suites on board are the same size and they also have a rain shower and whirlpool tub with an ocean view.

All 251 suites have the most up-to-date equipment in line with the lifestyle-focused character of the EUROPA 2: Internet access via Wi-Fi along with Tablet PC, cordless telephones and Nespresso coffee machines are all standard items. A 24-hour suite service, with butler service in the higher categories of suites (from Penthouse Suite upwards), ensures the highest service quality. Contemporary art and upholstered furniture from the COR company are among the extras, which emphasise the high standards. Soft drinks are available free of charge in the mini bar in all suites; as well as some additional drinks such as quality spirits in higher categories of suite.

Owner Suite with whirlpool and steam sauna: The two Owner Suites on Deck 10 provide the greatest amount of personal space. Separate living and sleeping areas, a large bath with an additional toilet for guests and a walk-in wardrobe stretch over 114 m2 (1,227 ft2), including a 15 m2 (161 ft2) veranda. Special features include: a private whirlpool with ocean view, a shower with steam sauna and a day bed in the bath.

The butler service ensures the best care and support.

Both the 88 m2 (948 ft2) Grand Penthouse Suites are fitted out to an equally high standard and they have a ten square metre veranda as well.

Click here to see the latest film online www.hl-cruises.com/experiencetv

Port of Dundee welcomes the magnificent Magellan on her maiden voyage with Cruise & Maritime Voyages The 1250 passenger cruise liner Magellan sailed into the Port of Dundee this weekend (29 March) for her inaugural visit on her maiden season under new owner, Cruise & Maritime Voyages.

The 46,000 tonne liner was recently renamed at a ceremony in her home port of Tilbury by her Godmother, Gloria Hunniford, and will be calling at Dundee three times this season as the market demand for people being able to cruise closer to home increases.

Welcomed by the Lord Provost of Dundee and Forth Ports’ Director of Scottish Operations, Stuart Wallace, the ship was presented with a plaque from the city to mark the ship’s first call to the port. Forth Ports also presented the ship with a specially commissioned commemorative print of the city of Dundee (see photo) and a commemorative plaque.

Commenting on Magellan’s arrival, Rob Mason, Head of Cruise for Forth Ports Cruise said: “We were thrilled to welcome Magellan to Dundee at the weekend for her first call at the port. Dundee is increasing in popularity for cruise holidays with sightseers benefiting from the waterfront investment in the city and also the close proximity to other places of interest. Magellan will call two more times this season and we look forward to welcoming her again in the future.”

Mike Hall, Head of Marketing at CMV, owners of Magellan said: “Support for our cruise departures from Dundee and the area has been remarkable with more than 2,000 people choosing to cruise closer to home. We are pleased that it means good business for us and of course for the Dundee area with local transport companies, hotels, shops, suppliers and others benefitting. On Sunday (29th March) passengers already on Magellan enjoyed a day of sightseeing in Dundee, with many other passengers joining the ship for a 7 night Norwegian Fjords cruise.”

Magellan berthed at King George V Wharf at the port and will also call into Dundee on Easter Sunday (5 April) and 12th April for the 7 night Norwegian Fjords cruise.

Forth Ports has invested significantly in its cruise business which welcomes liners into both the River Tay and the River Forth at its ports in Dundee, Leith and Rosyth and also anchorage points in South Queensferry and Newhaven bringing over 80,000 passengers over the course of the 2015 season. Forth Ports also operates the London Cruise Terminal in Tilbury, which is Magellan’s home port, with its unrivalled connections to the UK’s capital city.

Fitch Affirms ‘A’ Bond Rating, Stable Outlook for Canaveral With $617 million in capital projects planned and under way for expansion of its cruise and cargo operations moving forward, Canaveral Port Authority has received Fitch’s ‘A’ rating for $26.9 million of outstanding revenue bonds, series 2005 and 2006 A&B, and a rating of ‘stable’ for all Port bonds.

Fitch attributed the rating affirmation to Port Canaveral’s established operating history, recent sustained tourism-related revenue growth and the corresponding favorable operating contracts and cost management, aggressive, but flexible, capital program and no anticipated borrowing. In addition, Fitch viewed Port Canaveral’s conservative debt structure, modest leverage, and strong coverage metrics as credit strengths.

“Our commitment remains to sound fiscal planning and capital investment as we expand our cruise and cargo operations with our network of international and regional partners,” said Port Canaveral CEO John E. Walsh. “Our strength lies in our flexibility.”

According to Chief Financial Officer Rodger Rees, “The market continues to be flexible in adjusting to our borrowing needs while we continue to be aggressive in our efforts to diversify our revenue. At the same time, we plan to maintain a deliberate, calculated approach to achieving our growth initiatives.”

At the end of 2014, Port Canaveral had $26.9 million in total outstanding port revenue bonds and $182.7 million in private placement bonds.

MSC Cruises leads the way for Middle East choice Abu Dhabi fly-cruise option added for winter season 2015/16 MSC Cruises has underlined it commitment to the Middle East by adding fly-cruise sailings from Abu Dhabi for its upcoming winter season.

Between December 2015 and March 2016, the cruise line will offer 16 week-long UAE sailings aboard the 2,550-passenger MSC Musica.

As well as offering fly-cruises to the ship’s home port of Dubai – flying from the UK with Emirates – guests will now have the option to start their holiday in Abu Dhabi. Flights will be available with national carrier Etihad Airways from London Heathrow, Manchester and Dublin.

MSC Cruises executive director UK and Ireland Giles Hawke said the new partnership with Etihad Airways was great news since it offers UK cruisers the chance to travel at the weekend – cutting the time they would have to take off from work to just five days.

Dhabi demonstrates our commitment to the destination and our flexibility.

“By flying into Abu Dhabi, guests have the opportunity to make the most of the time in Dubai, which includes an overnight stay.”

As well as being the first cruise line to offer Abu Dhabi embarkations, MSC Cruises’ MSC Musica will be the newest ship operating in the region for winter 2015/16.

Flight options for the Dubai, Emirates and Oman sailings now include Emirates departures from London Gatwick and Glasgow and Abu Dhabi departures from London Heathrow, Manchester and Dublin.

The sailing departs Dubai and calls at Abu Dhabi; Khor Al Fakkan; Muscat, Oman; Khasab, Oman; and Dubai.

Fly-cruise prices start at £749 per person, including return flights with Emirates (to Dubai) or Etihad Airways (to Abu Dhabi), overseas transfers and FREE ‘Fantastica’ onboard experience upgrade (in-cabin breakfast, 24hr room service), based on December 12 2015 departure (December 13 2015 from Abu Dhabi).

“Our Dubai, Emirates and Oman itinerary has proved to be immensely popular with since it began in 2011 – the spectacular scenery, amazing modern cities and guaranteed sunshine are the perfect tonic for British guests wanting to escape the cold weather at home,” he said.

Looking further ahead, MSC Cruises is offering both Dubai and Abu Dhabi embarkation for winter 2016/17 when the sailing will be operated by one of its largest class of ships, the 3,274-guest MSC Fantasia. This tweaked itinerary, including Bahrain for the first time, is included in the new MSC Cruises 2016-2017 brochure now on sale.

“MSC Cruises is unlike other cruise lines in that we offer multiple embarkation ports on many of our sailings around the world. Being able to offer fly-cruise holidays from Dubai and Abu

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

Azamara Club Cruises joins Royal Caribbean International’s trade loyalty programme, Club Royal Azamara Club Cruises has announced a deal with Royal Caribbean International to partner with its recently launched innovative loyalty scheme, Club Royal.

From 1st April 2015, Azamara’s travel partners will be able to enjoy the programme’s simple, fast and flexible rewards for bookings. For every Azamara booking made, (including netts) agents will receive a £10 credit loaded onto a prepaid Mastercard® for immediate use on almost anything.

Agents simply sign up for the programme at www.MyClubRoyal. co.uk where they just need to be a Royal Caribbean ‘Captain’ on the award-winning e-learning programme, Cruising for Excellence. Once registered, agents will receive their Mastercard® within 28 days of registration.

Additional membership benefits include discounts off Red Letter Days, as well as bonuses for bookings and even £100 added to their Mastercard® if agents book an Azamara or Royal Caribbean cruise for their own personal holiday. In 2015, Azamara will host select members at two exclusive ‘Loyalty Events’ offering unforgettable experiences.

Richard Twynam, Managing Director UK & Ireland, Azamara Club Cruises said, “Our involvement in Club Royal reinforces our trade focus, and we’re delighted to be rewarding our travel partners through this scheme which we highly value. We’re also

pleased that part of Royal Caribbean Regional Sales Managers’ time will be used to promote Azamara in High Street Travel agent branches which we do not have resources to cover. This signals a continuation of the close relationship we enjoy with our sister brand Royal Caribbean. .”

Ben Bouldin, Director of Sales UK and Ireland, Royal Caribbean International commented, “Following the decision to support Azamara Club Cruises in retail, it was the obvious next step for the brand to join ‘Club Royal. The scheme has resonated brilliantly with agents up and down the country and we have every confidence that this partnership will help Azamara broaden their footprint within the UK Trade. Equally we look forward to the enhancements Azamara Club Cruises will bring to our annual VIP Event Calendar for all of our Club Royal Members.”

For more information on Azamara Club Cruises visit www.cruisingpower.co.uk.

To join the club visit www.MyClubRoyal.co.uk

Ponant Joins CLIA As Newest Global Cruise Line Member Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced the addition of Global Cruise Line Member, PONANT Yacht Cruises & Expeditions. A French luxury yacht-style cruise line and a world leader in Polar cruising, PONANT joins the growing number of CLIA’s Global Cruise Line Members, now totalling 28 cruise lines.

Last month, CroisiEurope, Europe’s largest river cruise line, also joined as a CLIA Global Cruise Line Member. PONANT and CroisiEurope are both a part of the CLIA Specialty Cruise Collection, a group of 17 cruise lines representing the rapidly growing small ship, river, coastal, luxury, adventure and sailing ship member lines.

“It is evident that the cruise industry is continuing to flourish and we are thrilled to see prestigious cruise lines around the world, such as PONANT, recognize the benefits of joining CLIA as a global member,” said Adam M. Goldstein, CLIA Global Chairman and President/COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “Global Cruise Line Members take advantage of access to thousands of CLIA travel agent and agency members as well as tap into vast marketing and promotional activities across CLIA’s 15 global offices.”

“As the only French cruise line that specializes in luxury cruises and a world leader in Polar Expeditions, we are thrilled to move our CLIA membership to a global level and join its Specialty Cruise Collection,” said Jean-Emmanuel Sauvée, Founder and CEO, PONANT. “With the development of our sales offices in the USA or Australasia, we look forward to engage fully with CLIA’s office and CLIA travel agent and agency members around the world over the coming years.”

PONANT specializes in luxury cruising aboard its fleet of intimate yacht-style vessels (32 to 122 staterooms) embodying a lifestyle “à la française.” These elegant, smallcapacity yachts offers chic cruising without the crowds, being small enough to reach ports that are inaccessible to bigger ships with destinations to Antarctica, Alaska & the Arctic, the Caribbean, Central & South America, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe & the Baltic, West Africa, Asia and the Pacific. The latest eco-friendly technologies, attentive five-star service, bilingual crew, luxurious staterooms and suites, a gourmet cuisine and meticulously planned excursions guarantee a voyage that is unique and full of emotionally moving experiences. For more information on PONANT, visit www.ponant.com.

Holland America Line’s new ms Koningsdam to homeport at Port Everglades for Caribbean Cruises in winter 2016/spring 2017 7 April 2015 - Following its inaugural Europe season in 2016, Holland America Line’s new ms Koningsdam will homeport at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. The ship will sail a series of Caribbean voyages and one cruise to the Bahamas from November 2016 until March 2017. The four to 11-day Caribbean itineraries will be available for booking in late spring.

All voyages are roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. The seven-day cruises visit popular ports in the region, while the longer nine, 10 and 11-day itineraries provide more time for exploring as they include a diverse array of islands, some more off-the-beaten-track.

Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line, said, “We are excited to sail Holland America Line’s newest ship from Port Everglades on the most varied and robust Caribbean itineraries of any of our ships. The Caribbean remains among the most popular cruise destinations in the world, and by having itineraries that range from four to 11-days, guests will be able to enjoy a holiday that fits their schedule.”

Holland America Line partners with Billboard for Holland America Line introduces the new Lincoln new live music venue - Billboard Onboard Center Stage venue Holland America Line will be introducing a new live interactive music experience called Billboard Onboard as part of the ‘music walk complex’ on the new ms Koningsdam. In partnership with Billboard, one of the world’s most renowned music publications, Billboard Onboard will showcase live musicians including two pianists, a guitarist and a DJ, who will take turns performing shows themed around the music industry. During the nightly sets and songs, guests can sing and play along with trivia questions presented on screens throughout the room whilst also enjoying the music of course. “Our guests love music that spans all genres, and Billboard Onboard is the perfect way to showcase a wide range of popular hits under one roof,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “We’re thrilled to partner with Billboard to debut a venue that will cater to all ages and nationalities.”

B.B. King’s Blues Club to rock the Queen’s Lounge Stage on ms Koningsdam

ms Koningsdam is set to become the eighth Holland America Line ship to feature this Memphis music experience. Direct from Beale Street, the B.B. King All-Star Band — an eight-piece group featuring two vocalists backed by rhythm and horn sections — brings the best of the city’s music to sea. From funky and fast to soulful and smooth, the band will perform six nights a week in the Queen’s Lounge, and while guests are enjoying the music, they can also sip exclusive cocktails from the original clubs such as the tasty , rum-based Lucille and Rock Me Baby concoctions.

“From the moment we introduced B.B. King’s Blues Clubs, they became an instant hit and guest favourite, and we’re excited to make it a permanent feature on our newest ship,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “Koningsdam is going to feature a wide variety of entertainment options and having music of this calibre is another way we’re standing out when it comes to the guest experience.”

Holland America Line has announced the launch of the Lincoln Center Stage, a new onboard live music venue created in an exclusive partnership with the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts — a leader in artistic programming, arts and education and community relations. The Lincoln Center Stage will showcase an ensemble performing chamber music on ms Koningsdam. These world-class musicians will perform multiple shows nightly and will also perform afternoon recitals on sea days. “Classical music has been one of the many hallmarks of a Holland America Line cruise, and to partner with an organization as esteemed as Lincoln Center takes our program to an entirely new level,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “We are excited about this opportunity and look forward to bringing the best of this musical genre to our guests.”

Holland America Line showcases The World Stage concept with 270-degree panoramic LED screens Holland America Line will be launching a multi-purpose entertainment stage on the new ms Koningsdam. Known as the World Stage area, the flexible space will feature various stage configurations including conventional staging and theatre-style seating. The innovative panoramic LED screens, projection and sound systems can change depending on the production and will enhance guests’ entertainment experience. The theatre will initially host five new productions performed by an international cast sourced from around the world. “The World Stage on Koningsdam will enable us to debut new entertainment concepts to delight our guests with shows they’ve never seen before,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “Having the flexibility to configure the room into many different and vibrant settings enables us to set new heights for cruise entertainment in this extraordinary theatre at sea.”

Speakers confirmed for Seatrade Cruise Asia Figureheads from the world’s leading cruise lines and key industry professionals head to Busan, Korea for Seatrade Cruise Asia which takes place at the Busan Exhibition and Convention Centre from 11-12 June, 2015.

Speakers confirmed so far include: Ted Blamey Principal, CHART Management Consultants; Alan Buckelew Chief Operations Officer, Carnival Corporation & Plc; Mick Fogg Manager Marine & Operations Planning Asia Pacific, Ponant; Michael Goh SVP, Global Sales, Star Cruises; Michael Hackman EVP, Marine Operations and New Shipbuilding, Genting Hong Kong Limited; Helen Huang General Manager China, Costa Cruises Shipping Service (Shanghai); Anthony Kaufman SVP, Asia Operations, Princess Cruises; Ki-Tack Lim President, Busan Port Authority; Dr Zinan Liu, VP China & North Asia, RCCL and Chairman, CLIA North Asia; Eero Mäkinen Managing Owner, Emamnoa; Darius Mehta, VP, Air & Land Programs, Silversea Cruises; Sture Myrmell SVP, P&O Criuses; Stephen Payne Principal Consultant, PFJ Maritime Marine; Kelvin Tan Commercial Director, Asia Pacific, Celebrity Cruises and John F Tercek VP, Commercial & New Business Development, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. As well as discussing the future of the cruise industry in Asia, and its potential in terms of a source market, the geography of the region will also be a topic for deliberation, looking at which ports will be the most attractive to the cruise lines as the industry researches fresh itineraries. In addition, the panels will discuss the scale and opportunity for Asia shipyards, as well as port infrastructure and investment.

Complementing the conference sessions, the exhibition will see destinations, tourism authorities, cruise associations, tour operators, port agents and suppliers showcasing their products and services to cruise industry professionals. The event will also feature a travel agent training programme, and a full social programme for attending delegates.

Seatrade Cruise Asia is hosted by Busan Port Authority, Busan Metropolitan City, Korea Tourism Organization and Korea Marine Leisure Network.

Now is the time to explore and discover ‘The World’s Top 50 Experiences’ with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines From April 2015, approximately 18 million people in the UK, aged over 55, will be given access to up to 25% of their pension – tax-free – for the first time; and every year, a further 320,000 people will become eligible. It is estimated that £6 billion will be spent within the first three months after April, with the number one discretionary spend predicted to be on holidays. In light of these new changes, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has carried out an independent survey, which has highlighted that nearly a fifth of the 1,000 respondents (of between 50 and 59 years of age) will be looking to spend a portion of their savings on a significant cruise holiday.

Fred. Olsen’s survey also showed that 79% of respondents will be looking to spend up to £10,000 per person on a travel experience, with a further 15% prepared to spend up to £20,000 per person.

In addition, the independent research highlighted that Fred. Olsen was seen as one of the most trusted cruise brands to provide the very best destination experience.

To educate and inform guests as to the holiday options available to them, Fred.

Olsen has launched a new brochure, entitled ‘The World’s Top 50 Experiences’ – all of which can be enjoyed on a Fred. Olsen cruise. From uncovering mysterious Machu Picchu, swimming with dolphins in crystal-clear waters, or partying at the Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Fred. Olsen has a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ experience to tempt even the most seasoned traveller! These are the perfect way to celebrate a key milestone – whether it is a birthday, anniversary or even retirement; and, with the upcoming changes to how and when we can access our pension pots, it is even more accessible for guests to be able to enjoy these experiences now.

Nathan Philpot, Sales & Marketing Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ impressive list of ‘The World’s Top 50 Experiences’ showcases how dedicated we are to offering our guests so much more than ‘just a sun-tan’. From a two-week trip to see the stunning ‘Northern Lights’, a holiday across the Atlantic for a shopping spree in New York, or an epic safari adventure in Africa, we offer our guests the greatest variety of holidays and destination experiences.

“At Fred. Olsen, we are confident that we can offer our loyal guests and new-to-cruise customers a fantastic ‘holiday of a lifetime’; however, we are also sure that our well-informed cruisers will think carefully about the value of money today and their future earnings, before taking a decision to change their spending behaviour.”

In its study, Fred. Olsen asked which of the ‘The World’s Top 50 Experiences’ respondents would most like to do. The ‘Top 10’ results are as follows: 1. Discover the beauty of the cascading Victoria Falls in Africa 2. Go in search of the ‘Northern Lights’ in Norway 3. Cruise the Mississippi aboard a traditional steamboat in the USA 4. Discover their grace and beauty, as you swim with dolphins in the Caribbean 5. Visit the ancient Land of the Pharaohs on a trip to the Valley of the Kings in Egypt 6. Travel through the clouds and the tree tops of the Esperanza forests for views of the lunar landscape of Mount Teide in Tenerife 7. Experience the sounds and speed of the Monaco Grand Prix in France 8. Enjoy panoramic views on a cable car ride to the top of South Africa’s Table Mountain 9. Uncover the ancient wonder that is Machu Picchu in South America 10. Let loose and enjoy the fun of the Mardi Gras in New Orleans, USA Fred. Olsen’s new 2016/17 cruise season will see its fleet of four ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch – taking in 253 destinations in 84 countries around the world, sailing from ten convenient, regional UK departures ports.

Fred. Olsen’s new 2016/17 cruise programme went on sale on 5th March 2015 and led to record-breaking sales, including an amazing £2.1 million taken in revenue on Friday 6th March 2015. The ‘Top-Sellers’ for 2016/17 include a ‘German Waterways’ cruise, an adultsonly ‘Exploring the Fjords of Greenland’ voyage, and a lively ‘Central America & the Mardi Gras’ adventure.

Fred. Olsen is delighted to be named a ‘Gold Trusted Merchant’ by independent review site Feefo in 2015, for the second year in a row.

This accreditation is based on genuine customer feedback and, to date, Fred. Olsen has received over 10,500 reviews, with 95% of these being in the ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’ categories.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www.fredolsencruises.com Agents can book online at the Travel Agent Centre or via AmadeusCruise. Alternatively, call Reservations on 0800 0355 242 (Monday – Friday, 8am – 8pm; Saturday, 9am – 5pm; Sunday, 10am – 4pm).

TV blockbuster ‘Fortitude’ ‘drives sales North’ at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, as Spitsbergen, Greenland and Iceland are top-sellers for 2016

Silversea Sets Culinary And Wine Voyages For 2015 and 2016 Silversea is spicing up its enrichment offerings. Over the course of 2015 and 2016, 26 sailings will feature either a culinary or wine focus, including four that combine both themes.

“Our culinary and wine voyages add an extra dimension to enrich our guests’ experience, and deepen their understanding of a region’s culture,” said Steve Odell, Silversea President EMEA and Asia Pacific.

Sky Atlantic’s highly-acclaimed psychological thriller, ‘Fortitude’ – set in Pyramiden, Spitsbergen, the fictional Arctic settlement of Fortitude – has been helping to ‘drive sales North’ at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, as Spitsbergen, Greenland and Iceland are amongst the topselling itineraries for 2016.

In its 2016/17 cruise programme, Fred. Olsen is offering guests the chance to visit this fascinating region on five different cruises, including Balmoral’s 14-night L1615 ‘The Wonders of Spitsbergen’ sailing, to explore the snowcapped mountains, glaciers and elusive wildlife of Svalbard, the Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean.

Another highlight of Fred. Olsen’s 2016 itineraries is its 15-night D1615 ‘Exploring the Fjords of Greenland’ adventure on board Boudicca, for adults only.

Black Watch’s nine-night W1613 ‘A Taste of Iceland’ cruise in Summer 2016 will take guests to experience the majestic volcanoes, boiling mud pools, spurting geysers, sprawling glaciers and picture-perfect waterfalls of this intriguing country, not forgetting the abundance of spectacular wildlife: dolphins, whales and flocks of native sea birds.

Nathan Philpot, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred.

Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “There is an increasing trend amongst holiday-makers to want to visit the set of their favourite TV series and films, and Fred. Olsen’s range of Spitsbergen, Greenland and Iceland cruises in 2016 is proving particularly attractive to these ‘set-jetters’, as they are known, where they can visit the fictional settlement and filming location of their favourite TV programme, ‘Fortitude’.

“We have seen record-breaking sales in March this year, following the launch of our new 2016/17 itineraries, which feature cruises that take in unique and lesser-known destinations; a trip to these isolated locations is a truly breathtaking experience, for seasoned travellers, artists, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.”

In recent years, Ben Stiller’s hit movie, ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty’, has also served to heighten interest in Iceland, were the country features prominently, also acting as a stand-in for Greenland and Afghanistan. In Sky Atlantic’s TV smash ‘Game of Thrones’, Iceland also doubles as the fictional continent of ‘Westeros’.

CULINARY VOYAGES Silversea proudly features the only “L’École des Chefs by Relais & Châteaux” cooking school at sea. The innovative programme, offered free of charge, provides a bespoke culinary curriculum, including hands-on instruction, and dedicated events. It is hosted by acclaimed culinary trainer David Bilsland, a former instructor at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in London.

Highlights include specialised workshops covering an array of topics from basic knife skills and kitchen terminology to sauces and baking; cooking demonstrations with wine pairings and interactive Q&A sessions; lively cooking competitions between Chef Bilsland and the ship’s own culinary team; a “Lunch and Learn” event offering small groups of guests a chance to sample a selection of specially prepared dishes; and inspired “Take It Home” recipes that will give guests an edge when entertaining at home.

Offered on certain voyages, is a “Market to Plate” experience that provides an escorted tour of a local market to shop for fresh ingredients, followed by a cooking class on board or at a Relais & Châteaux property.

WINE CRUISES On each wine cruise, discerning travellers with a passion for fine wines can enjoy sampling great vintages and learn about the art of winemaking in complimentary tastings and lectures conducted

by Silversea wine ambassador Lawrence d’Almeida. On many itineraries, guests will also have the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most celebrated wine regions on optional guided shore excursions. As on all Silversea sailings, guests will enjoy an extensive complimentary selection of fine red and white wine pairings with both lunch and dinner.

UNIQUE PAIRINGS Guests can experience the perfect pairing of culinary and wine enrichment programs on select voyages, including two on Silver Spirit: Voyage 5534, a 15-day transatlantic crossing from Barcelona to Fort Lauderdale departing 9 November 2015, and Voyage 5603, a 21-day Brazil-focused sailing from Barbados to Buenos Aires departing 25 January.

For more information, please visit Silversea.com/onboard/ enrichment/culinary-and-wine-voyages/.

MSC Cruises prepares for future with innovative 2016/17 programme New-look brochure highlights Med, Northern Europe and extended cruise options London, April 1 2015 – An enhanced selection of longer Mediterranean sailings, new Northern Europe itineraries and the promised return of Southampton departures are among the highlights of the MSC Cruises 2016/17 brochure, to be launched on Thursday April 2.

While the emphasis remains firmly on great-value fly-cruises and cruise-only to the Med, MSC Cruises is ramping up the choice on offer for UK guests by featuring itineraries aboard all of its 12 ships for summer 2016 – offering a total of 270 sailings on 22 itineraries. These will be made up of nine ‘core’ Med itineraries of seven nights; seven ‘longer’ Med itineraries of between nine and 12 nights; new Baltic and Norwegian fjords options; plus the chance to sail on one of MSC Cruises’ largest Fantasia-class ships (MSC Splendida) from the UK for the first time.

MSC Cruises executive director UK and Ireland Giles Hawke said: “We have made no secret as a business that we are intent on continuing our phenomenal growth. This 2016/17 brochure will be the last before the arrival of two spectacular new-builds in 2017, so it is vital we maximise the impact we make – and that means showcasing our inventory to UK guests.

“MSC Cruises is already the number-one cruise operator in the Med with eight ships in the region for 2016/17, and fly-cruise continues to be our bread and butter. We know how much Brits love to get their holidays started and there’s no better way to do this than fly straight to the sun.

“We have also responded to feedback by making cruise-only an attractive option for those who wish to make their own arrangements or for agents who want to create their own packages.”

Guests booking before August 31 2015 will be able to take advantage of price reductions of up to £300 per person. For simplicity, cruise-only prices in Europe are set £150 lower than fly-cruise packages where available and £400 lower in the Caribbean and Emirates. On ‘Fantastica’ Experiences, upgrades from outside to balcony cabins are available for just £50pp.

The programme features a greater focus on cruises of eight nights or more. Introduced for summer 2015, longer sailings will operate in the shoulder seasons from Venice and Genoa on four ships [MSC Fantasia, MSC Lirica, MSC Opera and MSC Splendida].

Also new is the return of a limited ex-UK programme. MSC Splendida will operate six sailings from Southampton, including a roundBritain itinerary and continental coast cruise.

Meanwhile, MSC Cruises will continue to offer its comprehensive selection of winter sailings in the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, Caribbean and Middle East across seven ships. For the first time, the popular Dubai winter season will be operated by one of MSC Cruises’ largest, Fantasia-class, ships [MSC Fantasia], with a tweak to the itinerary to include the debut of Bahrain.

For 2016/17 MSC Cruises has opted for a more contemporary look for its brochure, with the majority of itineraries presented over two pages. Colour-coded grids detailing prices for each cabin and Experience type have been introduced, with each giving the cost depending on seasonality.

As an added bonus, the brochure features four teaser pages with information about facilities planned for MSC Cruises’ exciting new-builds. The company has four ships on order - the innovative all-season STX Vista project vessels [4,500 passengers double occupancy] will launch in spring 2017 and 2019, while Fincantieri’s Seaside project ships [4,140 passengers double occupancy], are set to join the fleet in November 2017 and 2018.

Details revealed include the news that both classes of ship with have larger MSC Yacht Club areas, including luxurious duplex suites and suites with private whirlpool bath. Both will also feature ‘cluster cabins’, where three adjacent cabins can be linked together for families.

As announced earlier in March at Cruise Shipping Miami, the first ‘Seaside class’ vessel will be named MSC Seaside, and based yearround in Miami. The ship will feature an innovative and high-tech aqua park with four thrilling slide rides.

State of the Asia Cruise Industry: More Cruise Ships, Passengers and Ports Than Ever Before Today, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) released the findings from comprehensive Asia Cruise Trends study.

Overall, the data reveals the cruise industry in Asia is experiencing robust double-digit growth of cruise ships, passengers and ports in the region. Using the findings, CLIA shared new data and identified trends on the Cruise Industry in Asia: 1.

Capacity Boost – The capacity to carry passengers continues to soar with the introduction of new and larger ships in the region. Since 2013, passenger capacity grew at a 20 percent compound annual growth rate and is expected to reach almost 2.2 million in 2015. The Asia region has quickly progressed to fourth in passenger capacity deployment, tied with Australasia.

2.

Asia Passenger Growth – With this increased ship capacity, Asians are cruising more than ever before. Cruise lines hosted nearly 1.4 million Asian vacationers in 2014, a 34 percent compound annual growth rate since 2012.

3.

Increase in Chinese Cruisers – From 2012 to 2014, the number of Chinese passengers grew 79 percent per year. In 2014, 697,000 passengers were from mainland China which is almost as many passengers as all other Asian markets combined (701,000).

4.

Under 40 Cruisers – China’s Generation Y – ages below 35 years old – made up most of the country’s outbound travel, according to statistics from the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF)1. This trend is echoed in the cruise industry. In four of the largest cruise markets – China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Philippines – more than 4 out of 10 passengers were under 40.

5.

More Cruise Ships in Asia – This year, 52 cruise ships will operate in Asia, a 10 percent compound annual growth rate since 2013. The number of cruises and longer voyages in the region has also grown with 1065 sailings scheduled this year, up 11 percent per year. There has also been a significant increase in the number of days cruise ships are in operation, from 4,307 operating days in 2013 to 5,824 operating days in 2015.

6.

Asian Exploration – While Asian outbound tourism is exploding around the world, the study found that Asian cruisers are primarily exploring Asian destinations. More than nine out of ten Asian passengers (91%) cruised within Asia. The remaining 9 percent flew to cruise destinations outside the region, primarily in Europe, followed by Alaska and the Caribbean.

7.

Proliferation of Ports – Cruising in the region includes more than 168 destinations across 18 countries, making traveling by cruise ship one of the easiest ways to see all that Asia has to offer. While the introduction of new ports throughout Asia is great for travelers, it is also great for local economies. With a 34 percent absolute increase in port calls since 2013, cruise lines are bringing more visitors to destinations in Asia having a direct impact on economic growth in the region. Japan ranks top with 646 port calls planned in 2015, followed by Malaysia (580), South Korea (377), Singapore and Thailand (374 each).

8.

Short Sailings – Depending on the market, many Asian guests have limited vacation entitlements. Therefore, there are more short duration cruises preferred by Asian consumers with 48 percent of Asian passengers choosing 4 to 6 day cruises in 2014, 38 percent choosing cruises of 2 to 3 nights, and only 12 percent opting for 7 to 13 night cruises.

9.

Attracting the Asian Traveler – Cruise lines have recognized the need to bring their best ships and amenities to the region. New onboard offerings tailored to the Asian guests include inclusive onboard activities aimed at multi-generational families, high-end shopping, and adapted menus to include familiar favorites and regional cuisine.

“It is exciting that, for the first time, we know the true size of Asian source markets and have been able to extend our understanding of Asia’s cruise industry growth and potential,” said Adam M. Goldstein, Global Chairman, Cruise Lines International Association. “2015 will be a record-breaking year in Asia with more travelers cruising the region than ever before. The cruise industry is responding by offering more cruises with experiences tailored to Asian travelers as well as enticing international travelers with an easy way to visit Asia’s array of fascinating destinations.”

Princess Cruises and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment take The Sound of Music out to sea Beginning mid-April, Princess Cruises will partner with Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment to screen the biggest movie musical of all time, The Sound of Music, on board all 18 of its ships and feature sing-a-longs, trivia games, and other movie-themed experiences throughout the year. The offerings celebrate the 50th anniversaries of both the cruise line and the musical and is part of a year-long campaign to honour the classic film.

The Sound of Music will be shown once on every sailing throughout 2015 on Princess Cruises’ 300-square-foot “Movies Under the Stars” screen, while the sing-a-long version will be shown in on board theatres. Song birds can meet and rehearse for a special The Sound of Music edition of Princess Pop Choir and a themed trivia challenge will test fans movie knowledge.

A phenomenon upon its debut in 1965, The Sound of Music won five Academy Awards®, including “Best Picture” and continues to inspire audiences around the world with unforgettable songs including “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favourite Things,” “Climb Every Mountain,” and “The Sound of Music.” Starring Oscar® winners Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, the film follows Maria (Andrews), the warm-hearted young woman who brings joy and music to Captain von Trapp (Plummer) and his seven children.

Paul Ludlow, Princess Cruises’ managing director UK and Europe, said: “Watching the von Trapps on our open-air big screen will be a unique experience for fans of the Sound of Music. In a year in which both Princess Cruises and The Sound of Music mark their golden anniversaries, this is a truly memorable way to join in the celebrations.”

The Sound of Music 50th Anniversary Blu-ray™ featuring the all-new documentary “The Sound of a City: Julie Andrews Returns to Salzburg” is available now.

MS Fram undertakes unique calvados experiment from pole to pole The MS Fram expedition ship is for the second year running, experimenting to see the effects that sea travel has on alcoholic drinks, having loaded a barrel of calvados on its voyages from pole to pole.

Last year, two 150-litre barrels of American oak were filled with 25-year-old Single Highland Malt Scotch Whisky and firmly anchored on deck 9 for the long journey around the globe. After bottling, the whisky became available for purchase on-board and is still regularly offered during whisky tasting sessions on-board.

This year, a barrel of 25 year old calvados has been loaded onto the ship and has been crossing the world’s oceans and covering thousands of nautical miles from Antarctica to the Arctic Circle. During its voyage it will cross the equator, Arctic Circle (north and south) and the Prime Meridian.

“We were delighted by the results of the Whisky project last year, which saw a definite improvement in the quality of the single malt after it had been subject to the continuous rolling wave movements, temperature changes and sea air” says MS Fram captain Arild Harvik. “This year we decided to try something slightly different, so are transporting a cask of calvados to ascertain whether it is improved by sea travel to the same degree. Who knows what we will try next year – maybe aquavit?”

At the end of its journey in August, the calvados will be will be transferred into limited edition bottles at 80 degrees north and will then be available for sale on-board.

Prices for a 10 day ‘Norwegian fjords’ voyage on-board the MS Fram start from £2,338 per person, based on two people sharing an inside cabin on full board basis. The trip departs on 1 May and starts and ends from Dover. Hurtigruten are currently offer 50% off the price of the second person when you book a twin cabin, meaning they can travel from £1,609 per person. http://www.hurtigruten.com/uk/explorer-voyages/norwegian-fjords/voyages/the-norwegian-fjords/ For more information call Hurtigruten on tel: 020 3582 6642 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk.

Ponant Supports Inuit Culture In keeping with its commitment to responsible tourism, PONANT is supporting the Inuit communities in the Upernavik district of North-West Greenland, to enable them to diversify their income by promoting local craftsmanship.

The Inuit communities of the Upernavik district live in harmony with their environment. In the past, this was seen in their hunting and fishing practices but also in the production of small amulets. These are easy to carry and made from narwhal tusks, musk-ox horns, bones, stones and driftwood.

THE UPERNAVIK FABLAB Since strict quotas have been placed on hunting, these communities must diversify their sources of income. In light of this situation, the EDANA research laboratory from the HE-Arc University in Neuchâtel in Switzerland, the Ethnographic Museum of Neuchâtel and Nicolas DUBREUIL, an Expedition Leader with PONANT, created the Upernavik FabLab, the first 3D printing laboratory in Greenland.

The aim of this FabLab is to produce 3D copies of certain Inuit amulets, held in the collections of European museums. The objects reproduced by Inuit sculptors from the Upernavik district will then be offered for sale in museums and aboard PONANT’s ships, providing a stable source of income for the craftspeople.

“This FabLab project in Upernavik will be of benefit to technical colleges, small local business and also to the entire population of Upernavik, allowing it to open up to the world,” explains Philippe GESLIN, Doctor of Social Anthropology and Ethnology and Professor at HE-Arc Ingénierie in Neuchâtel.

“The older members of the community who are no longer able to hunt on the ice will have an alternative source of income from the sculptures. And the younger members will have access to new technologies, to innovation and internet discussions with the entire world,” confirm in unison Ole and Knud, two young Greenlanders who went to Neuchâtel to receive training in 3D printing in September 2014. €10 FOR EACH DIGITAL TRAVEL FOLDER PONANT’s support for the FabLab is threefold: • A grant to help with the costs of setting up the FabLab. • The sale of the sculptures aboard the ships.

• An additional subsidy of €10 per digital travel folder* if passengers choose to receive this version rather than the “paper” copy for departures from April, 2015.*it takes the form of electronic files sent by email “At PONANT everything we do strives to be environmentally friendly, from the design of our ships to the organisation of our shore visits. Our support for the local communities of the Upernavik district is therefore a perfect extension of this company priority” underlines Jean-Emmanuel SAUVÉE, PONANT CEO. For more information, call 0800 980 4027 or visit www.ponant.com

Uniworld reaffirms commitment to the trade by offering agents the opportunity to experience selected departures at 70% discount Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection (www.uniworldrivercruises.co.uk), the world’s only authentic boutique river cruise line, is offering agents the opportunity to experience one of its luxurious cruises for up to 70% off the brochure price.

Demonstrating its continued commitment to the UK trade, Uniworld has launched the offer on selected European departures from May to August, subject to availability. The offer is based on double occupancy and gives agents the opportunity to experience the fantastic itineraries, unique interiors, fine dining, personalised service and exceptional shore excursions that are hallmarks of all Uniworld cruises.

Kathryn Beadle, Managing Director of Uniworld in the UK commented: “You have to experience Uniworld to really understand what makes us different, and so we’re making it easier than ever before for UK travel agents to enjoy our product, with these fantastic savings. We’re confident that having been on board one of our amazing vessels, travel agents will become valued and knowledgeable ambassadors and be able to sell with confidence.”

Selected itineraries are available on the Castles Along the Rhine , Legendary Rhine and Moselle, Enchanting Danube, Eastern Europe Explorer, European Serenade, European Jewels, Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy, Bordeaux, Vineyards and Chateaux For more details, please visit uniworldrivercruises.co.uk. Agents looking for more information or to book can call 0808 168 9110.

Join Uniworld’s social media community at facebook.com/uniworldrivercruises or twitter.com/uniworld_UK

CroisiEurope Inaugurates Three New Ships In April: The MS Camargue in Lyon, The MS Loire Princesse in Nantes & The MS Gil Eanes In Porto

Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, continues its expansion this month with the inauguration of three new ships.

• On 1st April in Lyon, the MS Camargue was christened on the Rhône. This spacious and contemporary ship is designed in the same style as the MS Lafayette (launched in 2014) and features MissoniHome furnishings. The two-deck MS Camargue can accommodate 104 passengers in 54 cabins and will cruise from April to November on six- and eight-day trips from Lyon through Macon, Vienne, Arles, Avignon, Viviers and Tournon. Cruise only prices from £795 per person.

• On 2nd April in Nantes, the MS Loire Princesse was christened on the Loire. Thanks to innovative paddle wheel technology, the Loire Princesse is the first hotel ship to cruise the shallow waters of the Loire, the longest river in France. The three-deck MS Loire Princesse accommodates 96 guests in 48 cabins and boasts a contemporary and stylish look thanks to MissoniHome curtains, furniture and bed linen. The ship will cruise from April to November on six- and eight-day cruises round trip from Nantes visiting Saint-Nazaire, Ancenis, Angers, the Castles of the Loire, Saumur and Bouchemaine. Cruise only prices from £1,001 per person.

• On 17th April in Porto, the MS Gil Eanes will be christened on the Douro. Built at the Meuse and Sambre shipyard in Namur, Belgium, this traditional propulsion vessel will accommodate 132 passengers in 66 cabins featuring MissoniHome furnishings which will also adorn the ship’s public areas. The MS

Gil Eanes will join CroisiEurope’s three ships already sailing the Douro and will offer eight-day cruises from Porto visiting Regua, Vega de Teron, Ferradosa and Pinhao. Cruise only prices from £991 per person.

Looking ahead to 2016 and 2017, CroisiEurope will be launching four new highly anticipated ships – the MS Elbe Princesse on the Elbe; the RV Princesse Apsara on the Mekong; and the hotel barges Daniele and Deborah on the Canal de Briare and the Canal de Garonne.

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

AmaWaterways to feature Bordeaux for the first time, with 22 new itineraries, including 8 wine-themed sailings

Debuting in spring 2016, AmaWaterways is introducing twenty two “Taste of Bordeaux” sailings for the first time, on board the luxury river cruise ship AmaDolce, sailing the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers in France’s most renowned wine region. Eight of the 22 departures will be special wine-themed voyages, featuring an even more immersive experience led by some of the world’s top wine experts.

Kristin Karst, Executive Vice President and Co-Owner of AmaWaterways said “Bordeaux is undeniably one of the richest destinations for culture seekers and wine lovers alike. We are so pleased to welcome guests aboard AmaWaterways as they set out to experience the wonders of this colourful region.”

The new “Taste of Bordeaux” sailings will follow a route along the Garonne River and its surrounding estuaries, exploring one of the world’s wine capitals. Guests will have the opportunity to visit Bordeaux’s famous chateaus and vineyards with stops at Cadillac’s Roquetaillaide Castle, a Medoc wine tasting in Pauillac and an excursion at Chateau de Montaigne in Libourne.

Those with a taste for wine, looking to enhance their river cruise experience even more, can choose one of eight wine-themed “Taste of Bordeaux” sailings aboard. Expert wine hosts and sommeliers will lead onboard lectures, host interactive tastings and multi-course dinners featuring gourmet cuisine paired with hand-selected vintages. The wine themed sailings will also offer complimentary tours of historic wine cellars, the opportunity to learn about winemaking and indulge in local culinary and wine themed traditions.

AmaDolce has spacious custom designed staterooms with French Balconies, a state-of-the-art entertainment system including complimentary wireless internet access, first run Hollywood movies and a full music library. The ship also features two dining venues, a lobby bar, a Sun Deck with a walking track and whirlpool, and bicycles are available for guests to enjoy group or self-guided shore excursions.

A seven-night Taste of Bordeaux cruise on AmaDolce round trip from Bordeaux costs from £1,559pp, departing 25th March 2016 and calling at Cadillac, Pauillac, Blaye, Bourg, Libourne and Cubzac-Les-Ponts. Price includes full board on the ship; wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and evening meals; complimentary daily excursions; free wi-fi; free use of on-board bicycles; on-board entertainment.

For more information about AmaWaterways’ luxury river cruises, contact AmaWaterways on freephone 0808 256 8422 or visitwww.amawaterways.co.uk.

Speakers announced for the Seatrade Caribbean Cruise Forum In just over a month, European cruise lines will be welcomed to the Seatrade Caribbean Cruise forum, taking place in the southern Caribbean island of Tobago and hosted by the Division of Tourism and Transportation, Tobago House of Assembly from the 13-14 May 2015, at the Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort. The forum will showcase the Caribbean and provide attending cruise lines with both an in-depth understanding and intimate knowledge of the region.

The Caribbean has consistently been a favoured choice for cruising. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Caribbean continues to rank as the dominant cruise destination choice; in 2002, 42% of those who cruised chose to do so in the Caribbean (CLIA) and projected figures for 2015 sees the region holding 35% of the Global capacity share. With its vast array of ports of call and year-round mild climate, the region has established itself as being a popular destination, seemingly made for cruising.

The forum will see a series of high-level discussions over the one and half day event, with a strong focus on the scope for development and opportunities within the Caribbean. Home-port and infrastructure, new itineraries and Shorex development will be key focuses of discussion for those attending the forum. Confirmed speakers leading the discussions for the event include Chris Coates Commercial Director, Cruise & Maritime Voyages; Mike Deegan Fleet Director, Noble Caledonia; James Langley Marine Superintendent, Saga Cruises; Michael Pawlus Director of Strategic Itinerary Planning & Scheduling, Silversea Cruises Ltd; Gianluca Suprani Head of Global Port Development & Shore Activities MSC Cruises and Steven Young Director of Port Services & Government Affairs, Carnival UK. Furthermore, the Seatrade Caribbean Cruise Forum will exclusively provide ports and tourism authorities the opportunity to meet cruise line executives via pre-arranged, one to one meetings.

Disney Magic on the Mersey One of the USA’s most popular cruise lines is heading to Liverpool on its first ever trip to the British Isles.

Disney Cruise Line has announced that in 2016 one of its fleet it will be coming to Britain for the first time and Liverpool is one of just two English destinations it will sail in to.

Disney Magic will call into Liverpool on Friday 27 May 2016 and Sunday 12 June 2016. The distinct vessel can carry around 2,700 passengers, and the two city visits are expected to have an economic impact of around half a million pounds.

Liverpool’s Cruise Terminal Manager, Angie Redhead, explained how this has come about: “We have been meeting with Disney Cruise Line for a few years at industry events, and in the early days their focus was on deploying ships within Florida and the Caribbean but over time, as new ships entered their fleet, their interest in possible British Isles deployment grew.

“Working in partnership with our port colleagues in Scotland and Ireland, we were able to encourage and suggest that a British Isles itinerary would be very well received by UK cruise passengers. The British Isles has a wealth of worldclass destinations within easy reach of our ports, with great facilities to ensure a seamless experience for each and every cruise guest.

“In discussions with Disney, I presented a broad and eclectic mix of great experiences that guests could enjoy during their time in Liverpool, ranging from cultural landmarks, fascinating heritage to spectacular countryside just a short hop away, as well as an assurance that the city of Liverpool would greet them with open arms with our famously friendly welcome when they call here.

“This year looks set to be another fantastic year for cruising in Liverpool with some of the world’s newest and most contemporary ships ever to sail in British waters calling here, and of course the three Cunard Queens making history on the Mersey in May. So it’s good to know 2016 is already looking strong, and the visit of Disney Magic will be one of the highlights of the summer. We look forward to welcoming their ships, passengers and crew and showing them everything that Liverpool has to offer.”

Facts about Disney Magic: • The ship boasts 11 expansive decks • It is 984 feet in length and 106 feet wide • It weighs 84,000 tonnes • It can comfortably hold 2,700 passengers and 950 cast and crew members • It has ten different eating areas/restaurants • There are five pools on board and two nightclubs

Hurtigruten revives its unique Northern Lights Promise, with free flights thrown in Imagine standing out on deck, watching a vivid display of green and purple lights dancing across the clear Arctic skies above you. Enjoy a truly unique adventure with Hurtigruten this winter and not only will they include your flights and buy you wine with dinner, they are so confident they offer the best way to experience the Aurora Borealis, that they are offering an exclusive Northern Lights Promise.

The offer is open to passengers booking a 12 day Classic Round Voyage for departure between October 2015 and February 2016 inclusive. Staff on-board Hurtigruten’s 11 coastal ships will be scouring the night skies and will announce any sightings of the lights. However, if they don’t appear during the voyage, Hurtigruten will offer guests the choice of a free 7 day Classic Voyage North, or 6 day Classic Voyage South in an inside twin cabin (voyage-only, b&b basis), departing between October 2016 and March 2017.

Not only that, but those booking a voyage departing in October, November and December 2015, will also enjoy incredible value for money, with flights from London Heathrow or Gatwick included, plus wine or beer with their evening meals.

Cecilia Abert, Hurtigruten commented “Seeing the Northern Lights remains one of life’s truly incredible experiences and we are so convinced that a voyage with us is one of the best ways to see them, that we have put our money where our mouth is. This winter our guests are not only benefitting from our unique Northern Lights Promise, but with flights and a wine or beer package included, there has never been a better time to go”.

Prices for an inside cabin on full board basis (based on two sharing) and including the free flights and wine package start from £1,197, on a choice of dates (including 30 October 2015).

Regional flights are available for small supplement.

Alternatively guests travelling in early 2016 can book an inside cabin on full board basis (based on two sharing), on a choice of dates in January 2016 (including 22 January) for just £995 per person. Flight and transfer packages start from an additional £330 per person.

The Classic Round Voyage hugs the Norwegian coastline from Bergen up to Kirkenes, where it turns around and starts its journey south back to Bergen. Travelling on a Hurtigruten voyage allows you to explore one of the most picturesque coastlines in the world and enjoy an authentic Norwegian adventure. Weaving through narrow waterways and fjords on small yet comfortable working ships, you will visit off the beaten track towns and villages and try activities that most tourists to Norway never have a chance to experience. Be pulled along the frozen Arctic on a husky sledge, or enjoy a thrilling rib boat ride through the world’s fastest tidal current – there are more than 50 incredible experiences on offer along the way.

The liner will embark on a 12 night cruise from Dover and will sail to Invergordon, Kirkwall and Greenock in Scotland; Newcastle, Liverpool and Dublin. She will also call to Le Havre in France, as well as Guernsey in the Channel Islands.

Back on-board, you will also enjoy a culinary journey along the coast, with menus not only reflecting the seasons, but the local specialities of the places you are sailing past. Delicacies are sourced from local small-scale producers and suppliers, and seasonal foods are brought fresh onto the ship each day.

All of these, except Kirkwall, are first-time ports of call for Disney Cruise Line.

Full terms and conditions are available on the Hurtigruten website: www.hurtigruten.co.uk/nlp

Bookings for the new itineraries is available and details can be found on the ‘Itineraries and Ports’ 2016 page of www.disneycruise.com

For more information call Hurtigruten on tel: 020 3582 6642 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk.

Carnival Cruise Line Announces Summer/ Autumn 2015 Lineup For Carnival Live Concert Series

Crank it up to 11, music fans! Today, Carnival Cruise Line unveiled the roster of artists for its upcoming Carnival LIVE concert series, adding The Band Perry, Boston, Lionel Richie and Heart to the diverse and talented lineup of musical acts set to perform on board the “Fun Ships” this summer and autumn.

The shows complement the highly anticipated spring series which kicked off last month and includes performances by Journey, Rascal Flatts, Little Big Town, Smokey Robinson and Styx.

Bringing the best of musical entertainment to the seas, Carnival LIVE is a one-of-a-kind entertainment option that provides

guests an opportunity to experience captivating concerts by major musical artists at a tremendous value. Concerts are held in the ships’ intimate main theaters – ranging in guest capacity from 900 to 1,300 – meaning there’s never a bad seat in the house.

Carnival LIVE concerts are performed on Carnival ships while they are docked in one of three ports of call: Cozumel, Nassau and St. Thomas.

Bernie Dillon, director of Carnival LIVE said: “We’re thrilled to build upon the tremendous success of Carnival LIVE with concerts this summer and autumn by The Band Perry, Boston, Lionel Richie and Heart – four incredibly talented acts that will provide our guests with an extraordinary entertainment experience.”

Crystal Cruises Offers Guests More Opportunities To Give Back In 2015 Ultra-luxury cruise leader Crystal Cruises continues its commitment to enriching the lives of its guests and the destinations to which its award-winning ships sail with an expanded number of its popular “You Care, We Care” shore excursions in 2015. For the line’s 25th Anniversary, 16 Crystal Adventures ashore – offered complimentarily to guests and crew alike – will allow participants to engage in the humanitarian and conservational activities of organisations throughout the world.

With three brand new excursions added to the line-up, 2015 marks the largest collection of opportunities to serve global communities Crystal has offered. Among the destinations where Crystal guests can provide shore-side aid are: •

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NEW Victoria, British Columbia – Guests will work alongside community members and volunteers at the Mustard Seed Food Bank, sorting food donations and helping prepare meals for those who would otherwise go without.

Santa Barbara, California – Backyard Bounty – a non-profit organisation that supplies the food bank of Santa Barbara – will take participants into the orchards to gather and organise fresh produce for local low income residents.

Dubrovnik, Croatia – At Domus Christi, a home boasting 660 years of history of assisting and sheltering the poor, elderly and infirmed, guests will meet with residents, providing companionship for a walk to the Old Port and along the waterfront, as well as helping with some of the home’s gardening chores.

Barcelona, Spain – With expert guidance from researchers at the Rehabilitation Centre, guests will learn about the centre’s dedicated efforts to help endangered marine life and their habitats, and even participate in a training drill for a stranded beach rescue of a dolphin.

Guernsey/St Peter Port, Channel Islands – Guests will get a glimpse into the daily operation of the Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as they assist with maintenance of the property.

Puerto Limón, Costa Rica – Participants will spend time with the children and families of SOS Children’s Village, where abandoned and orphaned children are brought up in a family setting, supported by the village environment.

Complete excursion and applicable sailing detail can be found on Crystal’s Shore Excursion Finder tool.

“The tremendous response to the ‘You Care, We Care’ programme continues to delight us, as our guests are savvy world travellers who relish the type of deeply immersive and authentic cultural education experienced during these excursions,” says Crystal’s president, Edie Rodriguez. “The act of contributing to the world in which we all travel is extremely rewarding – for everyone.”

In all, the “You Care, We Care” Crystal Adventures will be offered on more than two dozen of Crystal’s 2015 worldwide sailings.

Through the 30th April “Book Now” deadline, all-inclusive fly/cruise fares start from £1,673 per person.

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. Crystal Cruises has won “World’s Best Cruise Ship” in Condé Nast Traveler’s Reader Choice Awards for 21 years; has been voted “World’s Best Large Ship Cruise Line” by Travel + Leisure readers for 19-consecutive years; been named the “Best Luxury Cruise Line” by Virtuoso, Specialists in the Art of Travel; and both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity were rated as two of the “Top 5 mid-size ships” by the 2015 Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships.

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

MSC Cruises’ First Next Generation Ship Named “MSC Meraviglia” as First Steel Is Cut At STX France - Open For Bookings From June 2015, Will Be The First Ship With Three Homeports MSC Cruises, the world’s largest privately-owned cruise company and the leading line in the Mediterranean, South America and South Africa, marked a key milestone in its €5.1 billion growth plan today as the first steel for its new Vista generation of megaships was cut at STX France, during a ceremony in Saint-Nazaire.

At the steel-cutting ceremony, MSC Cruises Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago told assembled press and dignitaries that the cutting-edge 5,700-guest, 167,600-GRT ship — due to be delivered in May 2017 and open for bookings from June 2015 — will be named MSC Meraviglia. She will spend her first summer sailing the western Mediterranean, and will be the first to have three homeports: Genoa, Marseille and Barcelona.

“MSC Meraviglia will be the biggest and most innovative cruise ship ever built by a global European-based cruise line,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises Executive Chairman. “We chose a name that denotes the sense of awe and wonderment felt when you experience the ship’s stunning features, which only an MSC cruise, with its unique Mediterranean-style, can deliver.

MSC Meraviglia brings together the industry knowhow of MSC Cruises, a young, bold company built upon a 300 years of seafaring tradition and the expertise of one of the most advanced shipyards in the world. Today, building started on a true maritime marvel.”

STX France General Manager Laurent Castaing added: “Since March 2014, more than 400 people from our various teams have been working tirelessly to define the special features of a ship that, I am certain will set the standard for its generation. This extraordinary project is testament to MSC Cruises’ visionary approach, and we are proud to collaborate with them through our capacity for innovation and know-how.”

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises Chief Executive Officer said: “This steel-cutting event marks a decisive milestone in the company’s development plan, one that will see MSC Cruises double its capacity by 2022 through up to seven new ships and a €5.1 billion investment plan.”

He added: “MSC Meraviglia will be one of the greenest and safest ships in the industry, as well as one of the most technologically advanced. We are thrilled that in just a few weeks guests can start booking this truly remarkable ship, which will bring cruise travellers to the most exciting destinations around the world in outstanding comfort and style.”

Designed for unrivalled agility, MSC Meraviglia and the other upcoming Vista project ships will be perfectly able to call at any cruise port in the world, meaning guests from around the world will now be able to explore more of the best destinations on one of MSC Cruises’ next generation ships.

Among the ships’ manifold features will also be specially crafted ‘cluster cabins’ for families, and an extended MSC Yacht Club, the wholly self-contained luxury area on the prestigious foredecks, which will be enhanced with duplex suites, a vast solarium and a private lounge and restaurant. They will be packed with extraordinary features that make them ideal for cruising in summer and winter, including wide dining options and entertainment choices, stunning panoramic spaces, a large theatre and a spectacular amusement park linked to an outdoor aqua park, as well as a three-deck interior promenade.

MSC Meraviglia will also feature a range of technological advancements, such as ‘Near Field Communication’ technology, enabling guests to make onboard payments, access their cabins or geo-locate children, among other features, using their cruise card, bracelet or smartphone. Another jaw-dropping feature will be a 480-square-metre LED screen, which forms the entire ceiling of the ship’s interior promenade. Like a digital sky, this LED image vault will beam out compelling images and vistas day and night – including scheduled visual events – creating a variety of powerful atmospheres at all times.

MSC Meraviglia is the first of two identical ships on order from STX France, the second of which will be entered in to service in 2019.

In addition, MSC Cruises has options for two further Vista project ships to be delivered by 2022.

The Vista project is the result of a lengthy development process under STX’s ECORIZON® programme to create cleaner, smarter, more efficient ships. They will be water emission free, and their hulls and propulsion systems will be optimized for extreme energy efficiency. Scrubber technology will neutralize fumes and CO2 emissions in accordance with the latest international maritime regulations. In addition, the ship is fully compliant with the Safe return to Port requirement.

MSC Cruises, which has grown by 800% in terms of onboard capacity since 2004, carried 1.67 million guests in 2014 and generated a turnover of €1.5 billion. For 2015, MSC Cruises is forecasting an additional 10% growth.

March InterQuiz Winners: The two March InterQuiz winners were: Lee Daly (Land Product Executive, Carnival UK). On behalf of Lee, Intercruises donated to the Save Our Seas Foundation, an organisation that supports research, conservation and education projects worldwide, focusing primarily on threatened marine habitats.

March Interquiz Winners and Key Stats TAKE THE ONLINE APRIL INTERQUIZ & TEST YOUR TRAVEL KNOWLEDGE TODAY Test you travel knowledge and play Intercruises’ InterQuiz today – a quick, five minute quiz that features ten multiple choice questions, including: • In what year was Sydney Harbour Bridge officially opened?

• What is the name of the lagoon that separates Miami from Miami Beach?

• When was Georgetown (Penang, Malaysia) officially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Take the April InterQuiz today! https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/InterQuiz/9

Dan Marino (Operations Coordinator New York, Intercruises).

Dan donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, an organisation that is committed to ending breast cancer for ever.

March InterQuiz - Key Statistics Perfect Score – 6.9% scored 10/10 Most Common Score – 4/10 (17.2%) Most Difficult Question – “What is the official (de jure) national sport of Sri Lanka?” (Answer: Volleyball, only 36% answered correctly) Easiest Question – “All cruise ships must pass beneath the Lions Gate Bridge to reach which Canadian port?” (Answer: Vancouver, 79% answered correctly) “Are you a local Expert” – Play Now!

Norwegian Cruise Line adds complimentary restaurants across fleet Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that many of the line’s popular Asian dining venues can now be enjoyed on a complimentary basis across the fleet. Guest favourites including Shanghai’s Noodle Bar aboard Norwegian’s Breakaway Class ships and Norwegian Epic, Jasmine Garden aboard Norwegian Jade, Chin Chin aboard Norwegian Jewel and more will join the extensive list of complimentary dining venues available to Freestyle cruising guests.

As a part of the Norwegian NEXT programme, Norwegian Cruise Line is investing significantly into enhancing guests’ dining experience on board and offering even more culinary options to provide the best cruise vacation experience. As a part of these new initiatives, the cover charge and à la carte pricing for many Asian dining concepts across the fleet has been eliminated to further enhance guest satisfaction and provide them with more freedom to create their ideal cruise holiday.

“Norwegian’s Freestyle Dining is the most fun and flexible way for guests to enjoy some of the best dining experiences at sea, when they want and how they want,” said Andy Stuart, president and chief operating officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are thrilled to continue that legacy by providing guests with more of the food they have come to love and enjoy with the introduction of fleetwide complimentary Asian cuisine.”

Guests cruising aboard Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising ships can indulge in favourites like fried rice, spicy seafood udon noodles, steamed pork dumplings and more, free of charge at the following venues: • • • • • •

Orchid Garden, Norwegian Gem • East Meets West, Pride of America Lotus Garden, Norwegian Pearl • Shogun, Norwegian Spirit Chin Chin, Norwegian Jewel • Bamboo, Norwegian Dawn Jasmine Garden, Norwegian Jade • Ginza, Norwegian Star Shanghai’s, Norwegian Epic • Shanghai’s Noodle Bar, Norwegian Epic Shanghai’s Noodle Bar, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway

Norwegian’s popular Teppanyaki restaurants will continue to provide guests with the showmanship and culinary delights of Japanese iron-griddle cooking for a per guest cover charge, and Sushi venues across the fleet will retain nominal à la carte pricing.

For more information on the wide array of culinary options available aboard Norwegian ships and to book a cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 0845 201 8900, or visit www.ncl.co.uk.

The New 2016/2017 EUROPA 2 Brochure: New Destinations and Special Themed Cruises In the 2016/2017 cruise season, guests on board the EUROPA 2 can expect a range of exciting events, attractive cruise formats and premiere destinations. Guests can expect new exotic stops in Oceania, include Fiji, New Zealand and Australia. Also new on board, fashion2sea brings famous designers and their collections to guests on the ship, and the fitness area will have a new sports programme designed by Olympic champion Maria Höfl-Riesch.

New on-board fitness programme with Maria Höfl-Riesch BE.YOU is the name of the new on-board fitness programme developed exclusively for the EUROPA 2 by skiing star Maria Höfl-Riesch. The programme includes a personal body analysis, the results of which will be used to devise an individual training and nutritional programme for participants. Germany’s most successful Winter Olympian Maria HöflRiesch will join two cruises in May and November 2016, and will train alongside the guests.

Special-format cruises on fashion, art and contemporary issues fashion2sea will focus on fashion and style, with famous designers presenting their collections on board. There will be fashion shows, a popstore, make-up workshops, and fashionable shore excursions during these cruises.

On the art2sea cruise, art will not only be exhibited on board; major events at the destinations will also prove fascinating for art lovers, with highlights including exhibitions in Boston and New York. Popular artists will also be there to provide an exciting look behind the scenes of the international art world. On the EUROPA 2, art lovers and connoisseurs can discover a range of various artworks in the public areas and suites.

There are 890 originals on board in total, some of which were created as part of extra contract work for the EUROPA 2. The collection features works by Gerhard Richter, Ólafur Elíasson, David Hockney, Damien Hirst, Adam Fuss and Hans Hartung. This exclusive list is complemented by works by Jeppe Hein, Georg Küttinger, Ingrid von Kruse, Eva Hild, Minjung Kim, Cornelius Völker, Rupprecht Mathies, Kubach & Kropp, Tenka Gammelgaard, Christiane Baumgartner and Christian Schoppe.

Sabine Christiansen, a former German TV presenter and award-winning journalist, will present her exclusive talk-show format talk2christiansen on board the EUROPA 2. She will welcome famous international politicians, Nobel Prize laureates, entrepreneurs, experts, best-selling authors and public figures to discuss contemporary issues, tailored to the respective cruise destination.

Premiere ports and new destinations Two around-Britain, Summer cruises will, for the first time, feature a call in Dublin, Ireland’s capital. Departing Hamburg on 20 July, EUROPA 2 will set sail for Dublin on a 9-night voyage (family and golf-theme), with ports of call including Southampton, Falmouth and an overnight in Liverpool On 29 July, the ship will depart Dublin, returning to Hamburg on a 9-night cruise (family theme), featuring calls to Belfast, Tobermory, Portree and Edinburgh’s Rosyth.

Also for the first time, the EUROPA 2 will be visiting Oceania. In December 2016, passengers can fulfil their South Sea dreams when the EUROPA 2 drops anchor off the coast of Fiji and New Caledonia. From there, the ship will continue to New Zealand and Australia, with stops in Auckland, Wellington, Burnie, Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, Middle and Hamilton Island and of course, Sydney. New ports also include Taiwan, Thailand and Cuba with stops in Santiago de Cuba, Cienfuegos, Isla de la Juventud and the capital, Havana. In the far north, the new route leads from Greenland to Canada in August and September 2016, with stops in Nuuk/Greenland and Sisimiut/Greenland and cruising in Disko Bay/Greenland, St. John’s/Newfoundland/Canada, Saguenay (La Baie)/ Canada, Quebec/Canada and Montreal/Canada. In September 2016, the itinerary for two North American cruises take in fascinating destinations such as New York, Boston, Cape Cod, Charleston (South Carolina), Miami, Key West and New Orleans.

Leading luxury travel company, Scenic Tours, is changing and will now be known as Scenic The rebrand comes after an extensive 12-month project when the name Scenic Tours was no longer perceived as an accurate description of the company’s extensive product offering.

The business, founded by Glen Moroney in 1986, has evolved from an Australian coach touring operator to a luxury global travel company and needed a name and positioning which better reflected the company’s existing focus and resonated more strongly with guests and agents.

Commenting on the rebrand, Chairman Glen Moroney sees this as a new era for the company: “We started out as a very different company 29 years ago. Today, we’re globally recognised with a unique perspective on allinclusive luxury travel. In addition, we’re also specialists in river cruising – and we’re able to use our travel knowhow in ways that weren’t even possible just a few years ago.

“In that time we’ve come to define who we really are.

We’ve also learnt so much about our business, and about how to improve our guests’ travel experience. Our offering is now much more tailored. And, above all, we now have a much clearer idea of our mission – to help our guests discover the incredible wonder in the many locations we visit.”

With the name change comes a new logo and a refreshed colour palette of black and gold. This has already started rolling out across parts of the business, from documentation to on board the European fleet of Scenic Space-Ships, which have been entirely rebranded. These changes will continue over the next few months across website, brochures, press and TV advertising and events.

Glen added: “We have seen exponential growth in recent years and now have a truly global presence with sales offices in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, UK and USA but at heart, we are still very much the same - a travel company with a passion for sharing our expertise in order to create lifetime memories for our guests.”

As well as a new-look brand, 2015 will also see the launch of two new Scenic Space-Ships, Scenic Jasper and Scenic Opal. Both of these cutting-edge vessels have been built to the same renowned specification as Scenic’s current fleet, with new and enhanced on board facilities.

The 85-cabin Scenic Jasper features a heated vitality pool for guests to enjoy on the panoramic Sun Deck plus the largest suites on the rivers with the ultimate in private balcony accommodation - the 475ft2 Royal Panorama Suites and the opulent Royal Suite which boasts 360ft2 of space.

A 13th ship, Scenic Amber, is currently under construction and is expected to make its inaugural sailing on Europe’s waters in 2016.

Agents will receive extensive information about the rebrand so they can continue to confidently sell Scenic to their clients.

Agents give CMV’s Magellan the thumbs up Cruise and Maritime Voyages invited key travel trade partners to Newcastle – Port of Tyne and Dundee last week-end to have lunch and a tour around their latest fleet addition Magellan.

CMV took advantage of these regional departures to offer agents the opportunity for priority viewing and lunch on board their new flagship.

Wayne Beard, CMV’s Business Development Manager for Northern England and Scotland who was on hand to provide

information and details about Magellan said “We had more than 50 agents over the two days and we were delighted with many favourable comments from the agents who joined us. CMV were pleased that although the ship visit events took place on a Saturday and a Sunday demand from agents exceeded the number of places available.”

Wayne Beard took the opportunity to remind agents that CMV offers a stable and sustained level of commission that had led to the company having 80% of cabins sold for 2015 across the fleet.

He took the chance during the lunches to thank the agents in the North East and in Scotland for support of the local departures which he described as ‘remarkable and had exceeded all expectations.

Princess Cruises receives Good Housekeeping accolade Princess Cruises has become the first cruise line to be officially endorsed by Good Housekeeping magazine for its on board dining experience. Princess has been awarded the Good Housekeeping ‘Reader Recommended’ endorsement.

The recognition is based on readers’ feedback including taste, choice, freshness, healthy options and presentation. The line’s restaurants – covering its main dining rooms as well as speciality establishments such as the Crown Grill steakhouse and Sabatini’s Italian restaurant – were also rated for their ambience and service.

Overall, based on their dining experience, 9/10 Good Housekeeping readers would choose Princess again and 8/10 would recommend the line to a friend.

Paul Ludlow, Princess Cruises’ managing director UK and Europe, said: “We are honoured to be the first cruise line to receive such a prestigious award, which is testament to the wonderful dining we have on board. With a diverse range of menus and restaurants, all serving completely fresh food, there’s always something tempting on offer for our guests and we’re privileged to see this recognised.”

Princess will be accredited for 12 months.

Building Upon Leadership Position In Port Canaveral, Carnival To Expand Capacity On Short Cruises By 34 Percent And Offer Newest Class Of Ship On Week-Long Voyages From Space Coast Carnival Cruise Lines will build upon its leadership position in Port Canaveral, Florida, expanding capacity on three- and four-day Bahamas cruises by 34 percent and deploying its newest class of ship on seven-day Caribbean voyages in 2016.

Carnival will enhance its short Bahamas cruise programme from Port Canaveral with Carnival Victory replacing Carnival Sensation on this popular route in February 2016. The move not only increases capacity on the three- and four-day cruises but also provides guests with a greater variety of on-board features and facilities, including more than 500 balcony staterooms onboard the Carnival Victory.

Additionally, Carnival Magic will reposition to Port Canaveral in December 2016 to offer two different seven-day Caribbean itineraries, providing consumers with exciting new week-long cruise holiday choices from Central Florida. Carnival Magic is part of the line’s newest class of ship, offering features such as a WaterWorks aqua park, Cucina del Capitano family-style Italian restaurant and SportSquare outdoor recreation area.

In turn, Carnival Sensation, which boasts WaterWorks, Serenity adults-only retreat and numerous other features, will shift to Miami in February 2016 to operate the line’s attractive and convenient year-round four- and five-day cruise schedule.

Christine Duffy, Carnival’s President said: “We are significantly ‘upping our game’ in Port Canaveral with the addition of these great new ships to the important and growing Central Florida market.”

“When these ships join the spectacular Carnival Sunshine, this dynamic trio of ‘Fun Ships’ will offer our guests and valued travel agent partners with the widest array of attractive and convenient cruising options from the Space Coast,” she added.

The Royal Mint and P&O Cruises commemorate launch of two iconic Britannias The Royal Mint and P&O Cruises have commemorated the launch of two iconic ‘Britannias’ in 2015 – a new United Kingdom £2 coin and the cruise ship Britannia.

The Royal Mint revealed that the iconic figure of Britannia will return to rule over the United Kingdom’s circulating coins in the same week that P&O Cruises launched its new cruise ship Britannia.

To commemorate these two momentous occasions Shane Bissett, The Royal Mint’s Director of Commemorative Coin and Medals presented Captain Paul Brown of P&O Cruises with a special edition of the £2 Britannia coin to display on board the cruise ship Britannia. The new depiction of Britannia will be struck on the UK’s definitive circulating £2 and begin to enter circulation at some stage during 2015.

Speaking at the launch of the new £2 Britannia, the Prime Minister David Cameron said: “It is great to see Britannia’s welcome return to our currency. Making her first appearance on our coins in the 17th Century, Britannia is an enduring symbol of our national identity, ideal to help reinforce the strong sense of shared purpose and history for modern Britons.”

Shane Bissett, The Royal Mint’s Director of Commemorative Coin and Medals, said: “The instantly recognisable figure of Britannia has a long, enduring history which has evolved and changed in keeping with the nation which she represents. She has come to stand as a symbol of renewed optimism for our country, and has a rightful place on the currency of the United Kingdom.

“The birth of two such iconic Britannias almost simultaneously is an important event which The Royal Mint and P&O Cruises wanted to mark in an appropriate manner. It gives me great pleasure to visit our coin’s namesake, and it is an honour to have the opportunity to commemorate the launch of the cruise ship Britannia.”

Captain Paul Brown said: “It is a great honour to receive this special commemorative coin and very fitting that we are on board Britannia, which is “the nation’s ship”. The name Britannia has great historical resonance with P&O Cruises long and famous heritage and, most importantly, both the ship and new £2 coin pay homage to our past and celebrate the forward-looking Britain of today and the future.”

Carnival Expands Canaveral Fleet with Larger, Newer Ships - Carnival Victory and Carnival Magic to provide new options from Central Florida Starting in February 2016, Carnival Cruise Line passengers sailing from Port Canaveral will have the larger Carnival Victory as their vessel for shorter vacations and in December 2016, those seeking weeklong Caribbean cruises will have the new Carnival Magic as an option.

Carnival Victory will replace the Sensation, providing the popular three-and-four-day Bahamas itinerary with a 34-percent larger vessel that offers a greater variety of on-board features and amenities, including more than 500 balcony staterooms.

In addition, Carnival Magic will reposition to Canaveral, giving access to the line’s newest class of ship and features such as a WaterWorks aqua park, Cucina del Capitano family-style Italian restaurant and SportSquare outdoor recreation area.

“We are significantly ‘upping our game’ in Port Canaveral with the addition of these great new ships to the important and growing Central Florida market,” said Christine Duffy, Carnival’s president.

“When these ships join the spectacular Carnival Sunshine, this dynamic trio of ‘Fun Ships’ will offer our guests and valued travel agent partners with the widest array of attractive and convenient cruising options from the Space Coast,” she added.

“We thank Carnival Cruise Lines for offering these exciting vacation options from Port Canaveral and we are pleased that our strong partnership continues to grow and improve with the variety of diverse ships sailing from Orlando’s Port,” said Port Canaveral CEO John E. Walsh. “Today’s announcements of these new deployments, coupled with recently announced Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Valor schedules, will allow a variety of options for short and longer cruises, with Bermuda now among the choices from Central Florida’s Port of Choices.”

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 Co-ordinator aholubowicz@cruising.org www.cruiseexperts.org ukinfo@cruising.org Augustus Lonsdale Business Development Co-ordinator alonsdale@cruising.org t: +44 (0)20 7436 2449 Megan Saunders Office Manager & Support Executive msaunders@cruising.org