Edition 18 - October 2014
Membership News TER REGISW NO
THE CLIA UK & IRELAND
Regulatory & Technical Update & Networking Lunch
Wednesday 5 November 2014 | London, Venue TBC PLEASE SAVE THE DATE & FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Augustus Lonsdale alonsdale@cruising.org
CLIA UK & Ireland Welcomes One Of The World’s Leading Technology Providers Into Membership
Portsmouth International Port Premieres New Promotional Video Changing perceptions of Portsmouth, a new video highlighting the benefits of bringing a cruise ship to the waterfront city has just debuted online.
Amadeus, one of the global travel industry’s leading technology providers, has today become the latest member of CLIA UK & Ireland. Amadeus has been delivering technology solutions to the UK cruise industry and cruise sellers for almost 15 years. With a mission to simplify cruise sales for travel professionals, Amadeus is looking to maximise the huge potential to grow cruises sales and revenues and plans to make selling cruise more accessible to non-specialist agencies. CLIA UK & Ireland director Andy Harmer said: “Cruise holidays offer guests an exceptional experience with some of the finest dining, entertainment, enrichment and personal service available of any holiday type, and all combined with visits to some of the most inspiring and beautiful destinations on the planet. A tremendous amount of work is being done to communicate to travel agents that a cruise is a viable alternative to land-based holiday and I’m delighted that Amadeus is joining CLIA to further this message.” Diane Bouzebiba, managing director of Amadeus UK & Ireland commented: ““As a champion of travel agency distribution, Amadeus has been at the forefront of developing userfriendly booking solutions to help travel professionals meet the growing popularity of cruise holidays. However, the challenge is how to entice the 9 out of 10 traditional landbased holidaymakers to experience the many benefits of a cruise. That’s why our latest technology caters not only to cruise specialists but to the more generalist travel agents too. Our partnership with CLIA is based on a shared vision to equip travel professionals with both the know-how and tools needed to sell cruise at every opportunity.” For further information visit www.cruiseexperts.org
The video is part of a new “Cruise Portsmouth” campaign, and features shots of the excellent facilities at Portsmouth International Port, the wide range of vessels that came calling this summer and the world-class attractions that can be found on the doorstep. Councillor Linda Symes, Cabinet member for Culture, Leisure and Sport at Portsmouth City Council, features in the promotional video. She tells potential customers that Portsmouth is unique. She says, “There is nowhere that has the shoreline, the attractions or the history. Nowhere that has such a great maritime offering, or in fact a shopping offer, or an iconic Spinnaker Tower”. Martin Putman, Port Manager at Portsmouth International Port, also features in the new video. Interviewed in glorious sunshine outside the striking terminal building, Martin talks about Portsmouth’s excellent connections. He describes what lies in store for passengers visiting the city over beautiful footage of Old Portsmouth, Gunwharf Quays and the Historic Dockyard. Thousands of cruise passengers have witnessed the impressive views of the waterfront city since the start of the year. Managers at Portsmouth International Port hope that this latest marketing push will persuade operators to “Cruise Portsmouth” and bring even more passengers over the coming years. The video can be found on the website www.portsmouth-port. co.uk and youtube www.youtube.com/watch?v=KM7rVKEmSkc
Norwegian Escape Keel Laying Held At MEYER WERFT
Highest Distinction 5-starsPlus: Berlitz Cruise Guide 2015 Awards EUROPA and EUROPA 2
In the 30th anniversary edition of the Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships 2015 guide, EUROPA and EUROPA 2, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ luxury ships, have defended their pole position and have been awarded the highest distinction as the only 5-stars-plus cruise ships worldwide. The HANSEATIC was ranked as the only 5-star expedition ship globally among the group of “boutique ships”.
MEYER WERFT Project Manager Stefan Schmees, Norwegian Cruise Line CEO Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line Senior Vice President of New Build Christer Karlsson and MEYER WERFT Managing Partner Bernard Meyer at the Keel Laying for Norwegian Escape. Norwegian Cruise Line and MEYER WERFT today celebrated the keel laying of Norwegian Escape at MEYER’s state of the art facility in Papenburg, Germany. During the ceremony, block 35/41, the first of 86 blocks that will comprise the 164,600 gross ton vessel, was lifted into the covered building dock, officially marking the start of the ship’s construction. Norwegian Escape will be Norwegian’s largest ship to date, carrying 4,200 passengers, set for delivery in October 2015. Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer, was on hand in the dock and laid the traditional “lucky coin,” before the first block, weighing 400 tons, was placed by crane. A special commemorative coin featuring the ship was created to celebrate the day’s activities. “Norwegian Escape will be our largest and most innovative ship to date, building on the phenomenal success of Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway,” said Sheehan. “We are looking forward to seeing this ship take shape over the next year and welcoming her to our fleet in October 2015.” Norwegian Escape is the first ship in her class, and is being built by MEYER WERFT through a highly-efficient construction process that will deliver the ship of 164,600 gross tons in just over 19 months from steel cutting to delivery. “We are proud to begin the construction of Norwegian Cruise Line’s first Breakaway Plus vessel and continue our long-standing partnership,” said Bernard Meyer, managing partner of MEYER WERFT. “Norwegian Escape will be a spectacular ship and it is our honour to bring the dreams and innovations of the Norwegian team to life.” Norwegian Escape will begin weekly seven-day cruises from her year-round homeport of Miami to the Eastern Caribbean on 14 November 2015. The ship will be the largest to home port year-round in Miami, carrying 4,200 guests to tropical Caribbean destinations including St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship’s signature hull artwork is designed by marine wildlife artist and champion of ocean conservation, Guy Harvey, which features an underwater scene of marine wildlife. Norwegian’s newest ship is Harvey’s largest canvas to date, at 1065 feet in length, with his artwork spanning from the hull to the aft featuring two undersea scenes that blend seamlessly. Norwegian Escape will boast all of the exciting and innovative features found on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, plus a number of new spaces and interactive experiences that are yet to be announced. Accommodation includes the company’s signature luxury ship–within-a-ship complex: The Haven by Norwegian; along with Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; and many options for families, multi-generational groups, spa enthusiasts and more. To book a cruise on Norwegian Escape please visit www.ncl.co.uk or call 0845 201 8900.
Attaining 1,860 points out of a possible 2,000, the EUROPA 2 achieved the highest score among all ships and has been awarded 5-starsplus for the second time. The EUROPA, which has achieved this award the 15th year consecutively, received 1.851 points. Hence, both ships lead the ranking in the category “small ships up to 750 passengers” and are global leaders. The HANSEATIC has been awarded 5-stars with a total of 1.765 points, the BREMEN received the distinction 4-stars-plus with 1.555 points. “Both are beautiful ships to sail aboard”, comments Douglas Ward, author of the Berlitz Cruise Guide on EUROPA and EUROPA 2 “with an outstanding amount of space per passenger, high-ceilinged passageways, a superb range of dining venues and types of cuisine, and attentive, friendly, yet unobtrusive personal service. They have proven themselves to be unbeatable yet again.” “For EUROPA and EUROPA 2 to be awarded 5-stars-plus again this year fills us with pride and is a very special certification for our performance and our standards of quality, which proves once more our role as the foremost provider of luxury cruises” says Karl J. Pojer, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. “A special thanks therefore goes to our crew on board the ships as well as our team of staff in Hamburg.” The 30th anniversary edition of Berlitz Cruise guide is published on October 1st. Author Douglas Ward and his team tested a total of 270 cruise ships around the world and scored them based on criteria such as ship fittings, menus, restaurant quality, service, crew, entertainment and the cruise experience. For the first time, the guide includes a special on themed cruises this year.
SAVE THE DATE
THE CLIA UK & IRELAND
Consumer & Travel Law Update Thursday 15 January 2015 | London, Venue TBC PLEASE SAVE THE DATE & FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Augustus Lonsdale alonsdale@cruising.org
W E F T S LA CES PLA
CLIA UK & Ireland Annual Dinner Wednesday 17 December | Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines | Black Watch | London Cruise Terminal at Tilbury CLIA is delighted to once again bring you the Annual Dinner on-board a CLIA member cruise ship where you can network until the early hours with no need for taxi’s or expensive London hotels (we would even encourage you to network over breakfast too!). Please select the number of seats you would require for your booking. Due to the variation in table sizes onboard (sizes vary from 8, 6, 5, 4 and 2 persons), your table size(s) will be confirmed in due course by email. We are happy at this stage to accept TBCs for the names of your party. Passport details will be required for all persons attending, and it will be the responsibility of the lead booking to collate these and provide this information to Dellar Davies by Friday 14th November. Overnight Accommodation Overnight onboard accommodation is also available for purchase as part of your booking. Single Occupancy staterooms are available for £69, with Twin Occupancy available at £89. The Annual Dinner ticket price remains unchanged on 2013 at £159.00 per person, and this year we are pleased to include all beers, wines and spirits for the duration of the evening and dinner (premium brands available at a supplement). We look forward to seeing you onboard for what promises to be a fantastic night! We anticipate that seats will sell quickly – so do book early!
CroisiEurope Launches New Athens-Istanbul Cruise For 2014/2015 Season Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, is introducing a brand new “Culture & Cruise” themed Athens-Istanbul itinerary for winter 2014/15 onboard the 200-guest MS Belle de l’Adriatique. Between November 2014 and March 2015 the ship will offer an eight-day cruise on the Aegean and Marmara Seas, exploring the incredibly rich culture and heritage of this region. Starting in Athens, the cruise will take in Patmos, Kusadasi and Pergamon before finishing in Istanbul. Highlights will include the Acropolis, Cape Sounion and the Bosphorus and Dardanelles Straits. There will be a choice of fascinating excursions available such as the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian in Patmos, the ancient Greek ruins of Ephesus and Pergamon and the Basilica Cistern, Galata Tower, Grand Bazaar and Spice Market in Istanbul. Onboard, a guest lecturer will enhance the guest experience by giving talks about the destinations visited and placing them within historical context. Prices for this eight-day cruise start from £926 per person for accommodation in an outside cabin with all onboard meals, complimentary beer and wine at lunch and dinner as well as open bar throughout the voyage (not including Champagne, special wines or fine brandies), onboard entertainment and port taxes. Book a November, December or January cruise before 30th October to receive a discount of £170 per person. For reservations and further information call CroisiEurope on 020 8328 1281 or visit www.croisieurope.co.uk
Norwegian Cruise Line (UK) Joins Tipto In Its 16th Year
Tipto is delighted to announce that Norwegian Cruise Line (UK) has joined its organisation of specialist independent tour operators in time for the new Tipto year.
Silversea’s Luxury Day
Silversea hosted 10 Travel Agents at the Berkley Hotel on Tuesday 30th September for their annual Luxury Day. All winners who attended the day had made a Silversea booking between 1st March 2014 – 30th April 2014. Qualifying entrants were then entered into a draw for the chance to win one of ten spaces on a luxury London day. The prize included the iconic Pret-a-Porte afternoon tea at the Berkley Hotel, £100 voucher for Berkeley’s Haybarn Health Club, a fine dining experience at the chef’s table at Angela Hartnett’s Michelin starred Murano restaurant and an overnight stay at the Berkeley Hotel.
Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator in cruise travel with a 47-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising® which revolutionised the industry by giving guests more freedom and flexibility. Today, Norwegian provides guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed, resort style cruise vacation on some of the newest and most contemporary ships at sea. In the first quarter of 2014 Norwegian Cruise Line took delivery of its most innovative ship to date, the 4,000-passenger Norwegian Getaway and most recently it has agreed a deal to acquire Prestige Cruises, the parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Like Tipto’s new and long standing members, Norwegian Cruise Line has joined Tipto in order to work more closely with independent agents. The highly sought after membership will aid the operator in directly targeting independent travel agents with its core messaging and updates through Tipto’s events that take place all over the country throughout the year as well as through its interactive training modules, social media and website channels. Nick Wilkinson, Norwegian Cruise Line Director Business Development UK, Ireland & Scandinavia, said: “We are delighted to join TIPTO and feel extremely positive about what the relationship will bring. TIPTO is the leading independent travel agent network and the association will support us in our mission to work as closely with agents as possible; it creates the chance to reward and recognise independent agents through exclusive offers and opportunities, while enhancing their expertise to help them to increase their sales. We are looking forward to a strong year ahead and all that this relationship will bring.” Tipto Chairman, Zena Calderbank, commented: “We are so pleased to welcome another new member Norwegian Cruise Line to Tipto in our 16th year. Agents should look forward to benefiting from Norwegian’s business philosophy, Partners First – that focuses on its absolute commitment to the travel trade – through shared marketing resources, in-store training opportunities, and a dedicated training module on the TIPTO website. This year the Tipto roadshows are going to feature lots of new faces so they will be a brilliant opportunity for independent agents to get acquainted with Norwegian Cruise Line and all of the other new suppliers.”
Oceania Cruises Unveils Winter 2015-2016 Season Including 27 New Itineraries And 12 New Ports Of Call
Oceania Cruises has announced its 2015-2016 Winter Collection, revealing a lineup that features a variety of longer, destination-rich itineraries travelling to ports in South America, Asia, South Africa, the South Pacific and Caribbean. Of the 42 itineraries, 32 are voyages of two-weeks in length or longer and 27 sail on unique itineraries never before offered by the upper-premium line. Among the winter itineraries are 12 new exciting destinations not previously visited by Oceania Cruises ships, including Jeju, South Korea and Luderitz, Namibia.
The Winter Collection will see the Oceania Cruises fleet travel to all four corners of the globe, including two Amazon River voyages in South America, six transits of the Panama Canal, a roundtrip Cape Town sailing exploring the southern tip of Africa and multiple overnight stays in dream destinations across Asia. With three ships criss-crossing Asia, Australia and the South Pacific this winter, several of the new destinations for Oceania Cruises are located in this region of the world. The new ports of call include: • Boracay Island, Philippines • Eden, Australia • Jamestown, Saint Helena • Norfolk Island, Australia
• Cooktown, Australia • Gisborne, New Zealand • Jeju, South Korea • Raroia, French Polynesia
• Sanya, China • Shimizu, Japan • Luderitz, Namibia • Newcastle, Australia
With such an elaborate array of itineraries, the breakdown below outlines in more detail the regions and destinations where the five-ship Oceania Cruises fleet will sail in winter 2015-2016. Regatta Regatta will bridge the Americas, spending time in North, South and Central America, while calling on some Caribbean ports along the way. Itineraries include two new cruises that explore the Amazon River and four voyages that traverse the Panama Canal. Sailings will visit Peru, Chile, Brazil, Costa Rica, Argentina and many more exotic locales before heading up to the Pacific Northwest for the ship’s summer season in Alaska. Insignia Insignia will depart from Miami on January 4th 2016, for an incredible Around the World in 180 Days voyage. This epic cruise is the latest in a series that represents the most comprehensive and port-intensive world exploration opportunity available in the cruise industry. Nautica Nautica will call Asia and South Africa home for a series of eight unique itineraries, six of which are new routes for this region. The itinerary line-up includes a wealth of overnight stays in popular destinations such as Singapore, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long Bay, Shanghai, Beijing, Tokyo, Cape Town, Walvis Bay in Namibia, and many others. The schedule also includes an incredible 35-day voyage from Hong Kong to Istanbul that traverses the Suez Canal. Marina Marina opens the season with back-to-back South American voyages that will explore Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Chile. The ship will then set sail for the South Pacific with seven unique itineraries exploring several popular ports in French Polynesia, Fuji, Samoa Islands, Australia and New Zealand. Riviera Riviera will spend the winter months in the sunny Caribbean, with voyages ranging from seven to 14 days in length. The ship will split time between the eastern and western Caribbean and will offer a special 12-day holiday sailing that will visit St. Barts, Martinique, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, Grenada and Puerto Rico. For more information on Oceania Cruises or to order a brochure, visit www.oceaniacruises.com or call on 0845 505 1920.
Princess Cruises To Mark 50th Anniversary With On Board Celebrations
Princess Cruises has announced that commemorative food, drink and entertainment will be offered on its ships to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Throughout 2015, which marks five decades since the line’s first sailing, all cruises will include: • A souvenir menu in the main dining rooms for one night, which will feature dishes including duck terrine with apricot preserves and fillet of turbot with whipped truffle butter • Two new desserts – a chocolate raspberry mousse with vanilla crème brûlée & crunchy shortbread and chocolate pistachio dome with almond & pistachio nougatine. Both have been created by the line’s master chocolatier, Norman Love • Classic drinks including martinis, piña coladas and ananniversarylabelled Prosecco • The ‘Seawitch West Coast IPA’ craft beer, brewed exclusively for the anniversary • Deck parties, which will be themed on ‘The Love Boat’, a romantic US TV comedy show that ran for ten seasons from 1977-1987. It was mostly set on board Princess Cruises’ ships and is credited with assisting the expansion of both the line and the overall cruise industry • A wide range of entertainment including parties, quizzes and tribute acts • Anniversary décor and signage on board ships and in terminal buildings. Each ship in the fleet will feature a 50th anniversary flag on its bow • Limited edition merchandise from the on board boutiques The 50th anniversary will begin with the naming ceremony of Princess Cruises’ newest ship, Regal Princess, on November 5, 2014 in Florida by the original Love Boat cast members. The on board celebrations will launch on Regal Princess at this time and roll out to the rest of the fleet in early 2015. Paul Ludlow, Princess Cruises’ managing director UK and Europe, said: “Princess Cruises has gone from strength-to-strength during the past 50 years and we’re eagerly anticipating the Golden Anniversary. It’s going to be incredibly exciting on board and we hope that past and new guests alike will join us to raise a glass, or two, in celebration.” More information on the 50th anniversary can be found at www.princess.com/50
AmaWaterways Launches 2015 Europe, Russia, Asia and Africa River Cruise Brochure
AmaWaterways, acclaimed by the Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe guide, as having the top river cruise fleet in Europe, has launched its 2015 Europe, Russia, Asia & Africa river cruise brochure. Offering 24 itineraries on board 20 ships, visiting nearly 30 countries, the award winning line is introducing three new ships for 2015, Myanmar as a new destination and unique new theme cruises, as well as the return of the line’s popular wine and Christmas markets sailings. AmaWaterways has the most prestigious fleet afloat. Many of the ships feature a unique twin balcony design, multiple dining venues, offering exclusive `limited edition’ immersive tours, complimentary Internet and Infotainment systems, a heated swimming pool or whirlpool on the Sun Deck and a chef’s table on the newer ships, while AmaWaterways is the only river cruise line to be a member of La Chaine des Rotisseurs, a world-class culinary achievement. Highlights of AmaWaterways’ 2015 Europe, Russia, Asia & Africa brochure include: Three new ships: • AmaSerena and AmaVista – These new sister ships will sail the Danube, Main and Rhine. The 164-passenger vessels will feature Twin Balcony Staterooms, heated swimming pools with swimup bars, salon services, fitness rooms, elegant glass elevators and more. • AmaDara – This innovative new 124-passenger ship joins AmaLotus in 2015, offering an exciting voyage along the Mekong through Vietnam and Cambodia. The itinerary features a once-in-alifetime overnight experience on an authentic yet contemporary junk in Vietnman’s Halong Bay, stops at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and time exploring the ancient Khmer empire. New destination: Myanmar AmaWaterways will launch a new ship, the 56-passenger, all-balcony suites AmaPura, and new river cruise programme on Myanmar’s Ayeyarwady River in November 2014. One of the world’s most secretive, mysterious and fascinating places, Myanmar has a unique, centuries-old culture and spectacular architectural wonders, including sacred structures gilded with gold leaf and encrusted with precious gems. AmaWaterways’ river cruises are carefully designed to take in all the highlights, from the massive temple complex of Bagan to the ‘Golden City’ of Mandalay. AmaPura is built in colonial style, with luxurious, all-balcony suites, fine dining and a plunge pool on deck. New and returning theme cruises: In Celebration of Wine Cruise, Beer Cruise, Art Illumination Cruise, Jazz Cruise, Jewish Heritage Cruises, Christmas Markets Cruises In addition to its regular programme of sailings in 2015, AmaWaterways’ philanthropic arm, AmaCares, will offer a new way for travellers to give back. In honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the line will donate $500 per stateroom onboard its In Celebration of Life cruises on October 25th and October 28th to the American Cancer Society for breast cancer research, prevention and treatment. AmaWaterways was recently the only cruise line to receive a four star-plus rating by the Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe travel guide, taking the guide’s top 11 spots. AmaPrima received the highest possible score in the book, crowned ‘Queen of the River’ when compared to more than 280 rated vessels. For more information about AmaWaterways’ luxury river cruises contact AmaWaterways on freephone 0808 223 5009 or visit www.amawaterways.co.uk
Dover Harbour Board’s biggest ever investment in Dover starts now A momentous day for the future of the Port and the fulfilment of a promise to deliver for Dover, today Dover Harbour Board has agreed to move forward on the first substantial phase of works to transform the Port through its Dover Western Docks Revival project. Representing an initial and major part of the biggest single investment that will have ever been made by the Board in Dover and its port, tenders are being invited for construction companies to get involved in one of the most exciting development opportunities in the region. George Jenkins OBE, Chairman of Dover Harbour Board, said: “Today’s positive decision is a bold one that demonstrates the Board’s commitment to deliver for Dover. It is far sighted and reflects the shared vision that has been created by the Port, together with its customers and community to create long term prosperity for Dover and for the nation.” Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: “I am absolutely thrilled by this decision. It represents a further investment of up to £120 million in Dover and the employment prospects of current and future generations of local people over the next few years. The message today is that we are 100% for Dover, we are putting our money where our mouth is and we very much hope that this will give others the confidence to do the same. “The studies have been done and the conversations have been had with our customers, with our community and with our staff. Now it is time for action. Now it is time to deliver for Dover.”
Thomson Cruises Announces Investment In Thomson Dream and Celebration Thomson Cruises today announces a significant investment in Thomson Dream and Thomson Celebration as part of the cruise line’s modernisation strategy. Upgrades will include public areas such as sun decks and lounges, and the on-board dining experience will be enhanced with the introduction of a brand new a la carte restaurant on each ship. The news follows an earlier investment in the fleet in 2012 which saw all cabins on Thomson Dream and Celebration, together with some public areas, refurbished with clean-cut contemporary designs. Cruise lovers sailing on Thomson Dream and Thomson Celebration will enjoy a chic new sunbathing area, available to all guests. The on-board food and beverage offering will be enhanced, with the introduction of a new Asian-themed a la carte restaurant ‘Kora La’, offering delicious Indian and Chinese cuisine on both ships. Customers will also enjoy a new food offering and décor at ‘Terrace Grill’ on the Thomson Dream. A new look is also planned for the former ‘Argo Lounge’ and ‘Oceans Bar’ on-board the Dream as they reopen as ‘The Explorers’ Lounge & The Coffee Port’ and ‘Tides Bar’. Helen Caron, Managing Director of Thomson Cruises, says: “Listening to our customers is at the heart of all our planning, which is why we are investing further in both Thomson Dream and Celebration to give passengers an even better experience on-board. We are confident customers will love the enhanced dining experience in the a la carte restaurants and the overall new look of both ships.”
Thomson Cruises to surprise and delight customers in CLIA Cruise Week To celebrate CLIA Cruise Week, Thomson Cruises is saying thank you to customers with a series of ‘surprise and delight’ initiatives. All customers setting sail on Thomson Dream on 27th September will be given a chance to explore a port of call courtesy of Thomson Cruises, with the choice of one from a selection of shore excursions to enjoy free of charge. Or, if a ship based treat is more their thing, they can opt for £15 per person credit to spend on board. They will also receive a personalised bottle of sparkling wine to celebrate the start of their cruise holiday. As an extra thank you in Cruise Week one lucky cruiser will see their on-board spend totally wiped out. Whether they have enjoyed drinks at the bar, spa treatments, a spot of retail therapy or shore excursions, it will all be courtesy of Thomson Cruises. This is just the start of delighting customers in this way, as one passenger will be selected on all sailings across the fleet from 27th September to receive the same surprise. Helen Caron, Managing Director of Thomson Cruises, said: “We really value our customers and with nearly 60% coming back time after time, we like to say ‘thank you for choosing us’. We have made small gestures as a thank you over the last year, with great feedback from customers, and we are confident our plans to surprise and delight customers through National Cruise Week and beyond will further enhance and improve our customers’ cruising experience.” Customers will be encouraged to take part in conversations online using #MadeMeSmile.
Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific Offers Complimentary Infrastructure Workshop to Help Drive Cruise Market Forward In an effort to help drive forward the port infrastructure and development within the Pan-Asia cruise region, UBM, the organizer of Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific, is now offering all visitors and exhibitors complimentary access to a new session - The Cruise Line/Port Interface Workshop. Bruce Krumrine, Vice President, Shore Operations, Princess Cruises, and John Tercek, VP, Commercial & New Business Development, Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited, and Member of the CLIA Global Ports Committee, will lead this one hour workshop on how ports and destinations should structure their terminal and infrastructure development. “This is an excellent opportunity to engage key stakeholders within the Asia cruise industry” said UBM Asia’s Executive Vice President, Michael Duck. “By bringing the suppliers, ports and cruise lines altogether for this frank and open discussion, we are opening the door to infrastructure development and opportunity for economic growth within the region.” There is no charge to attend this workshop and it is open to any and all exhibitors and visitors who participate in Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific. To register to attend or exhibit, visit cruiseshippingasia.com
New Crystal Cruises’ Dress Code Reflects Casual Luxury, Evening Elegance
In response to valued feedback from its guests, luxury cruise leader Crystal Cruises is introducing a simpler evening dress code, beginning 21st December 2014 onboard both its award-winning ships. While casual daytime attire is acceptable onboard any time before 6pm, the suggested evening dress code simplifies the current options of Resort Casual, Elegant Casual and Black-Tie Optional and will now feature only two preferences: • New “Crystal Casual” – A dressed-up version of casual attire, the new designation for evenings applies to all areas of the ships after 6pm and includes dresses, skirts, dressy trousers and blouses or jumpers for women, and dress shirts and sport coats (no tie required), open-collar or collared polo shirt and dress trousers/smart trousers for men. • Black Tie Optional – More formal evenings boast the celebratory ambiance of a special occasion, calling for dark suits with ties or tuxedos for men and formal cocktail or evening dresses, or formal evening separates for women. “With an increasing mix of domestic and international holidaymakers, it is important Crystal stays on trend and supports the changing style preferences among them,” says Crystal President and COO, Edie Rodriguez. “With just two straightforward evening attire preferences, we ease the stress of packing and planning, and put the focus on the excitement of the voyage ahead.” With the new evening dress code policy, guests can expect one “Black Tie Optional” for seven- to 10-night cruises, and two on 11- to 13-night cruises. These estimates are subject to change depending on itinerary details, while World Cruise, festive sailings and ocean crossings may be scheduled differently. The new guidelines do not apply to daytime hours, when guests are encouraged to dress comfortably and appropriately for their chosen activities. Crystal Dining Room attire is casual during the day, and those not wishing to change outfits for evening dining may opt for dining on the ships’ spacious indoor/outdoor Lido decks. On Black Tie Optional evenings, jeans are not allowed in any dining venues or lounges, including the Crystal Casino. Until 31st October, all-inclusive, value-priced “Book Now” fly/cruise fares start at just £1,876 per person, double occupancy. For further information and reservations please call Crystal Cruises on 020 7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk
CMV say goodbye to Discovery as they prepare to say hello to Funchal & Azores
On Saturday 27 September, Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) saw the final cruise of Discovery+ as part of their fleet. Mike Hall, Head of Marketing at CMV said “We have received many e-mails, phone calls, social media messages and letters giving us compliments from passengers who have enjoyed their experience on this fine classic vessel.” After the final Discovery cruise, which starts this Saturday and returns to Bristol Avonmouth 6 October, CMV’s 2014 cruise programme will continue utilising the very intimate classic country house style Funchal. The ship is scheduled to operate two cruises - the Land of the Northern Lights cruise departs 6 October for 15 nights from £599pp. Followed by a Canary Islands & Madeira 9 night cruise departing 21 October* from only £499pp. *This departure terminates in Lisbon where there is the option to stay overnight on board before flying back to London. The 6 October 15 night cruise takes you up to Norway’s spectacular scenic coastline and right up into the Arctic Circle. Among the ports included in the itinerary are Alta, Tromsø and Narvik where there are particularly good chances of seeing the magical Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. The 21 October 9 night cruise you should be able to pick up some autumn sunshine visiting La Coruña in Spain, Madeira, Tenerife and Lanzarote before calling into Lisbon. The price includes transfer from the ship in Lisbon and a flight back to London. Prices are per person based on two people sharing an inner cabin on a full board basis with afternoon tea and late night snacks included. Also included in the fare are daytime activities, the guest speaker programme, stylish evening entertainment, complimentary tea and coffee (6am - 10pm). Sterling is the on board currency. Visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com where you will also find details of all CMV’s current and future cruise departures from Bristol Avonmouth and other UK ports. Tune in to CMV TV www.cruiseandmaritime.tv and view videos about CMV.
CLIA UK & Ireland Introduces Unique Digital Cruise Brochure Rack CLIA UK & Ireland is today launching a unique digital Brochure Rack bringing more than 90 cruise line brochures to agents’ desktops. The first of its kind in the world, the Brochure Rack provides information from over 60 ocean cruise lines with agents able to download, search and share with customers the e-brochures, some of which are only available via the Brochure Rack.
P&O Cruises Adds Extra Sparkle With New Strictly Come Dancing Competitions On All Cruises* In addition to P&O Cruises popular Strictly Come Dancing themed cruises, passengers can now slip on their dancing shoes as P&O Cruises ups the tempo with its first “official” Strictly Come Dancing contests on all ships. The new shows, to be held on all holidays with three or more sea days, build on the success of the line’s Strictly Come Dancing themed cruises. They follow the same format as the popular TV show and are launched in partnership with BBC Worldwide.
Software service provider, Widgety, has created the Brochure Rack which will initially be exclusively available to CLIA agent members. The search programme allows agents to look for specific information across the entire Brochure Rack including filtering by company, the name of the brochure, the year and geographical regions. It is readable and downloadable on PCs and mobile and tablet devices and the exceptionally high downloadable speed means that a 196 page, full colour brochure can be ready to read in just 5 seconds. Andy Harmer, director of CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “Brochure Rack is an invaluable tool when selling cruise holidays. Agents have never before had such access to cruise brochures all on one website and all searchable within a matter of seconds allowing our member travel agents to instantly share relevant pages with their customers either in store or via email or on social media.” He continued: “This is the perfect solution for travel agents as it gives them access to the cruise lines most up to date brochures, providing relevant information with high quality photos and imagery, and all within a matter of seconds. This week is CLIA Cruise Week so it’s particularly fitting that we are able to launch such an invaluable and effective tool, the latest in a number of new resources added to our website this year, all of which are key to the successful selling of cruise holidays.” Damian Gevertz, Widgety’s creator and founder, said, “We designed Brochure Rack to help agents find all the latest brochures, from their key lines, in one single digital place. We wanted to make it as quick and easy as possible for them to find the information they really needed to successfully sell more cruises; it has to be useful but also visually stunning. Brochure Rack complements the fantastic imagery in each of the operator’s brochures without ever taking away from that content. It simply replicates the traditional brochure shelves found in a retail store, but in a sleek digital format.” He continued: “We are pleased to continue supporting CLIA UK & Ireland with our unique online resources for travel agents. Our partnership has helped us to amass the largest online cruise database, consisting of copy, images, video and more. Widgety can power travel websites, allowing access to up to date content without the need to source the data directly.”
Exclusively recorded clips of judges Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli will be shown along with footage of celebrity performers from the show and the “voice” of Strictly, Alan Dedicoat. P&O Cruises marketing director Christopher Edgington said: “All passengers will have the opportunity to enter the competition, giving them an exclusive chance to become part of the Strictly magic – a real money can’t buy experience, which is only available with P&O Cruises.” The competition will be announced at the start of each cruise with a specially-recorded message from Len Goodman. Each couple that enters chooses a dance style and devises their own routine to selected music based on famous routines from the show. Solo entrants are also welcome and will be partnered with a member of the ship’s company.* Rehearsals take place during the sailing, culminating in a live show on a stage set resembling the famous Strictly TV studio in the main theatre, complete with judges’ desk and the distinctive mirrorball. Contestants are expected to provide their own costumes, but will be given exclusive back-stage access and offered hair and make-up sessions. Performances will be scored by the judging panel, armed with the famous golden paddles, and comprising members of the onboard entertainment team, senior officers, guest entertainers and fellow passengers. The couple accruing the most points will be crowned Strictly champions and presented with the famous mirrorball trophy, while their photo will be published on the front page of their own personalised copy of the ship newspaper Horizon. The Strictly Come Dancing competition is already running on P&O Cruises family friendly ships Oceana and Aurora and will be introduced to the line’s other ships later this year. To book a cruise, contact P&O Cruises on 0843 374 0111 / www.pocruises.com or visit your local travel agent. * The competition is available on all cruises with three or more sea days. The show will not run if fewer than three couples compete.
MSC Cruises Launches Free Mobile App For Holiday Hunters MSC Cruises is making it even easier for guests to research their next cruise holiday with the launch of a free mobile app. Available for Apple iOS devices (via the App Store) and Android devices (from Google Play), the MSC Cruises, Holidays and Travel app gives users access to all the information they need when planning a trip with the world’s favourite Mediterranean cruise line. Integrated functions include: • The chance to find out more about thousands of MSC Cruises’ exciting travel itineraries worldwide, along with information about the hundreds of dream destinations visited; • All the very latest cruise deals and news from MSC Cruises, with active push notification so you find out about special offers first and fastest; • Virtual tours, live webcam feeds and photos of the 12 luxurious ships in our fleet. Come aboard and explore restaurants, decks, entertainment and cabins; • Save selected cruises to your favourites for future reference and comparison; • The ability to call MSC Cruises’ UK Contact Centre directly from the app to book your cruise; • Follow the position of each MSC Cruises ship around the world in real time – and even see the view from the bridge. Giles Hawke, MSC Cruises executive director UK and Ireland said: “In line with our expansion plans, this new app gives us yet another way of reaching out to holidaymakers looking for a great-value fly-cruise. It is a fantastic research tool, making it invaluable for anyone who has booked, or thinking of booking, with MSC Cruises.” As part of MSC Cruises’ commitment to its trade partners, work is already under way to add a ‘Find your agent’ feature to the app. This will use GPS to identify the app user’s location to recommend the nearest MSC specialist travel agent. For more information see www.msccruises.co.uk or call 020 3426 3010.
Titan Cruise Compendium has the World in just one Brochure Titan has just released their very first Titan Cruise Compendium 2015 brochure. This beautifully designed brochure contains their full range of ocean, coastal and river cruise holidays, all together for the very first time - with more than 140 itineraries and over 50 brand new cruises to choose from. Featuring a range cruise partners, from the ‘traditional style’ ships, such as those operated by firm favourites Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and Azamara Club Cruises to the glitz and glamour of the ‘resort style’ cruises with Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Lines. NEW for 2015 and one of the best value tours in the brochure, is the Waterloo 200th Anniversary cruise commemorating the historic and iconic battle. Prices start from £449 and include a 3 night cruise on Fred. Olsen’s elegant Balmoral with all meals and an on-board exclusive Titan drinks party. There are some great offers to be had including special deals for solo travellers and savings of between £50 and £1500 on selected itineraries. Another brand new tour for 2015 is the Rio Carnival and Buenos Aires cruise. With prices starting from £3499pp, this amazing 15 day voyage takes in a host of highlights such as an overnight stay at the 4-star Hotel Windsor Atlantica overlooking Copacabana Beach and a city sightseeing tour of Rio de Janeiro with included lunch. It’s a great value cruise to one of the world most vibrant and exotic destinations. In addition, book by 31 October 2014 and clients receive up to $300 on-board cabin credit and savings of up to £1500pp* and EVERY Titan holiday includes Titan’s peerless VIP Home Departure Service as standard - now that’s a deal well worth doing the samba for! Bulk supplies will be distributed in the coming weeks but additional supplies can be ordered from BP Tradegate. To Book or for more information call FREE on 0800 988 5800 or visit titanagent.co.uk
Holland America Line announces free Emirates flight on Asia cruise specials Holland America Line has announced it is partnering with Emirates Air to offer a free flight to guests who book select segments of ms Rotterdam’s 88-Day Passage to the Far East Voyage before 16 October 2014. Sectors which include a free flight between London and Singapore start from £2,499pp whilst the full voyage, a roundtrip ex-UK cruise from Southampton, departs on 8 January 2015 with prices starting from £4,999pp Guests who book the 40- or 54-night segments, departing 8 January 2015, from Southampton to Singapore will receive free return air on Emirates Air from Singapore back to London. Guests who set sail from Singapore to Southampton on the 48-night segment, departing 17 February 2015, or the 34-night segment, departing 3 March 2015, will receive this fly/cruise special on flights to Singapore. These special fly/cruise fares start from £3,799pp for the 54-night segment, £2,799 for the 40-night segment, £3,499pp for the 48-night segment and £2,499pp for the 34-night segment. All prices are based on two sharing an Inside Stateroom. Third and fourth guests sharing one stateroom can also benefit from this flight offer but must book air at the same time as the first two guests. 88-Day Passage to the Far East Voyage ms Rotterdam starts the new year off with the 88-day “Passage to the Far East” voyage sailing roundtrip from Southampton on 8 January 2015. The ship sails east with calls in Portugal, Morocco, Spain, Malta and Greece, before a daylight transit of the Suez Canal. Following relaxing sea days, the ship stops at Muscat, Oman, and Dubai, U.A.E., before reaching India. After several calls there, the ship makes its way to Thilawa (Rangoon) for an overnight visit. The Far East is then extensively explored with calls throughout Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia before sailing back to Sri Lanka, India, Oman, Jordan and Egypt. During the voyage, guests can take advantage of extra time in port with overnight calls at Port Klang, Malaysia; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Mumbai (Bombay), India; Bali and Singapore. Following a transit through the Suez Canal, the ship explores Italy and Spain before returning to Southampton and Rotterdam. The segments ranging from 34 to 54 days between Rotterdam, Southampton and Singapore are eligible for the fly/cruise fares. For more information or to book, contact Holland America Line on www.hollandamerica.co.uk or call 0843 374 2300
MSC Cruises Counts Down To Relaunch of MSC Armonia MSC Cruises will relaunch the ‘stretched’ MSC Armonia with a 10-day repositioning cruise packed with celebrations. The ship is currently undergoing a £40 million ‘Renaissance’ at the Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo, Sicily – the first of the cruise line’s four Lirica-class vessels (along with MSC Sinfonia, MSC Opera and MSC Lirica) being lengthened and refitted over the next 14 months. The cruise: MSC Armonia’s comeback cruise will depart from Genoa, Italy, on November 19 2014 heading to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands. Over 10 days will call at some of the Mediterranean’s choicest destinations: Marseille, Cartagena, Gibraltar, Cadiz, Funchal, Santa Cruz de La Palma and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The sailing includes a unique programme of in-port entertainment, which will include dancers and musicians, gifts for guests and fireworks displays in Marseille and Tenerife. To continue the celebratory theme, MSC Armonia will also host a special gala dinner, along with spectacular theatre performances. Throughout the cruise, guests will also have the chance to watch a ‘making of’ documentary, explaining the remarkable engineering journey taken by MSC Armonia. Shore excursions: MSC Cruises has assembled a comprehensive range of shore excursions en route. Among them are many fascinating city tours, including in Aix-enProvence, Cartagena and Cadiz; a guided tour of Seville’s gothic cathedral – the world’s third largest church – and a visit to the wine cellars of Jerez de la Frontera to learn about the famous Jerez sherry. Explore Madeira’s historical capital city Funchal by 4x4, take part in the local tradition of toboggan riding in the streets of Pico dos Barcelos, or simply soak up the breathtaking island views that this town offers. For real exhilaration, take the whale and dolphin watching boat tour off the south coast of Madeira, where sightings are reported on 90% of outings.
In Santa Cruz de La Palma take in views of rugged volcanic landscapes at Fuencaliente, an area that not only boasts the most volcanic eruptions on the island, but is equally famed for its wine production. Itineraries: Following the inaugural cruise, the renewed MSC Armonia will operate two alternating seven-night Canary Island cruises (Canary Islands and Morocco and Canary Islands and Madeira), each with the option of extended overnights stays. Prices start at just £549 per person, including free upgrade to outside cabin, return flights to Gran Canaria and all transfers. The ship: MSC Armonia will offer more balcony cabins, more spacious common areas, flexible new dining options and new dedicated clubs for younger guests of all ages. It will also have a fantastic new Spray Park – a fun-packed wet zone with interactive jets, slides and ingenious water features. The new enhancements will bring added sparkle to MSC Armonia’s array of features, such as her two open-air swimming pools, distinctive restaurants and bars and the ever-popular Fenice Theatre. Key features include: • 94 beautifully appointed balcony cabins • Redesigned restaurants and bars, including 20-hour per day buffet • 20 hours of spectacular entertainment per day • Separate Baby (0-3); Mini (3-6); Juniors (7-11); Young (12-14); and Teens (15-17) clubs. • Baby Club designed by market-leading childcare company Chicco For more information see www.msccruises.co.uk or call 020 3426 3010.
MTN Terrestrial Broadband Network Coverage Triples by Region and Doubles in Ships Connected During the Summer 2014 Cruise Season After launching its Terrestrial Broadband Network (TBN) just more than one year ago, MTN Communications (MTN) announces the number of TBN-connected cruise ships has doubled and covered regions have tripled. Since the MTN TBN kick-off in Alaska in the Summer 2013 cruise season, several MTN partners, including Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises, are leveraging this new technology to enrich their passenger and crew communications experience. Thanks in part to this new technology, the MTN hybrid network now delivers approximately 10 Terabytes of data daily. The company enabled more than 33 million Internet logins last year. The MTN TBN optimizes the onboard bandwidth available to passengers and crew, especially when their ships enter port. TBN connectivity enables up to six times more bandwidth for communications and content sharing on the ship. Passengers and crew can now bring their daily online requirements to sea – including access to social media, infotainment, content and more. Passengers and crew today expect faster, land-like connectivity at sea. The challenge for operators has been staying ahead of demand while dealing with the cost of adding what has traditionally been only satellite bandwidth. MTN is a proven provider that enables disparate systems from multiple providers to seamlessly work together for “smart hand-off and switch over,” with a focus on user experience, cost and revenue growth. MTN launched its TBN as one key component of its advanced hybrid communications ecosystem. It is transforming communications at sea by enabling ships to connect through a first-ever hybrid network that seamlessly switches from satellite to the TBN, delivering higher network performance and speeds. This ecosystem is powered through smart computing and caching for super-efficient use of bandwidth onboard. And the company’s new Connect@Sea Internet platform delivers a higher level of service, along with new per-megabyte billing versus per-minute. The MTN TBN also optimizes corporate IT data so it flows through vessel networks more efficiently, freeing up space for additional applications. Since launching the TBN on cruise ships in Alaska last year, the company has expanded this new form of connectivity beyond Alaska. MTN access points now cover the East and West Coasts of the U.S., the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the United Kingdom, the highest trafficked cruising areas. “The reason behind launching the MTN TBN was to allow our customers to leverage a more practical communications ‘pipe’ while in port, versus costly satellite bandwidth,” said Brent Horwitz, senior vice president and general manager, cruise and ferry services, MTN. “In addition, the TBN enables greater throughput on the vessel for increasing IT and corporate communications demands. This differentiator delivers higher Internet speeds, a perk for crew retention and satisfaction. Crew no longer have to get off their ship and spend port days online catching up with family and personal business. Now they can quickly connect right from their ship, freeing up time for them to better enjoy being in-port. This also creates an improved passenger experience. Lastly, it generates further revenue for the operator.” MTN’s hybrid approach of satellite and TBN connectivity delivers the industry’s most sophisticated service to maintain multiple types of connections simultaneously. This enables the vessels to use the fastest data path available, such as accessing the TBN near and in ports. Broadband antenna tracking and stabilization systems help the ships “lock” onto MTN TBN access points in-port with no impact to end users during the switchover. Shipboard data centers are equipped with the industry’s most advanced processing technologies to deliver the improved online experience. MTN continues to grow the regional scope of its TBN. Expanded higher throughput Internet, TV and calling services allow guests and crew members to stay connected and productive at sea.
Azamara Club Cruises Launches Agents’ Prize Draw To Win A Monaco Grand Prix Weekend Break Azamara Club Cruises is giving agents the chance to win one of five weekend breaks in the glamorous south of France for the Monaco Grand Prix. This incentive is applicable to bookings for the current Double Upgrade promotion, or any other 2015/16 voyages booked between 1 October – 24 December 2014. All winners and their companions will enjoy a weekend trip to the Mediterranean coast, renowned for its opulence and movie star appeal. The lucky winners can spend their time on the Riviera exploring exotic gardens, dining in classic brasseries, wandering glossy boutiques or checking out the countless yachts in Monaco’s old port, not to mention they will have the exclusive opportunity to watch the famous Grand Prix. Plus, winners will be invited on-board Azamara Journey for dinner before returning home. Richard Twynam, Managing Director, Azamara Club Cruises UK & Ireland commented “We’re delighted to announce the latest in our series of trade prize draws aimed at rewarding our loyal partners. We’re really excited to be able to offer this fantastic prize of a trip to Monaco for the Grand Prix, which we visit annually. Azamara is so well supported by the trade and this is our way of giving something back for their on-going loyalty.” To qualify, agents must simply make a booking under the October – December Double Upgrade promotion, or any other 2015/16 voyage between 1 October – 24 December 2014, and complete the form on Cruising Power to enter the prize draw. See CruisingPower.co.uk for full details.
Record breaking cruise ship to arrive at Portsmouth International Port A cruise ship that has just sailed closer to the North Pole than any other before her arrives at Portsmouth International Port tomorrow (2nd October). Hanseatic, an explorer vessel owned and operated by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, is the first passenger ship to get within 480km of the North Pole using the North East passage. The record was achieved on August 26th during a cruise in the Arctic Circle. It will be her first visit to Portsmouth since 15 June 2006 for the five star explorer ship. Up to 175 guests enjoy luxury facilities on the122.8 metre long vessel that is designed to withstand the toughest of conditions in the Arctic and Antarctic. Highly experienced captains get them close to the ice in safety, with small inflatable craft transferring guests and expert guides from the ship to ever changing shoreline. Speaking after setting the new record in the North East Passage Hanseatic’s Captain Thilo Natke said: “Unusual ice conditions made this record possible. North of the New Siberian Islands in the Russian Arctic, there was a large ice-free zone stretching north through the Arctic Ocean, which we used for this spontaneous detour.” In temperatures of around zero degrees, and with a brisk Northeasterly wind, the passengers took a Zodiac ride along the edge of the pack ice. This event was then celebrated in style with a party on deck. The cruise ended in Norway, after a successful journey through the North East Passage that started in Alaska. Hanseatic is currently on a 14-day cruise from Hamburg to Madeira, exploring the “studio of masterpieces” - an art tour led by experts. Passengers are exploring the culture of Europe, with Portsmouth
their gateway to an exciting variety of destinations in Southern England. The ship arrives at seven in the morning, and a full day of discovery is planned. Guests will be heading west to unlock the mysteries of Stonehenge and to witness the wonders of Salisbury Cathedral. Others will choose to go east, to Chichester Cathedral and Petworth House, where William Turner painted countless oil paintings and watercolours. All the passengers will end their day back in Portsmouth for a music recital inside the classical splendour of the Guildhall. Captain Rupert Taylor, Harbour Master at Portsmouth International Port, said “We’re looking forward to having a record breaker sail into Port on Thursday, cruising past our own maritime marvels in the Historic Dockyard. We’ve worked hard to attract a growing number of explorer cruises, and this visit shows we are perfectly placed for passengers to experience an incredible day of discovery with a stop at our waterfront city.” Hanseatic is scheduled to leave Portsmouth International Port at 8pm, headed for Guernsey in the Channel Islands.
The Port Of Seattle And Sea-Tac Airport Received Accolade For Reducing Its Carbon Footprint Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is the first airport in North America to be certified for reducing carbon emissions by a world-wide independent programme with Level 2 certification under Airport Council International’s (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme.
by more than 7,750,000 kWh (7.8 MWh) per year, which is the equivalent amount of electricity that 700 single-family homes would consume in a year. A typical home in the U.S. consumes about 11,000 kWh per year.
“This is a significant step to be recognized world-wide for the conservation and environmental stewardship programmes we have instituted at Sea-Tac Airport,” said Port of Seattle Commission Co-President Stephanie Bowman. “Next year we expect to go even further in the certification as part of our Century Agenda goal to reduce aircraft-related emissions by 25 percent at Sea-Tac and 50 percent overall at the Port of Seattle.”
There are now 86 airports certified in Europe, 20 in Asia-Pacific, and 1 in Africa since the program was launched in 2009. In total, there are 4 different levels of ACA certification. Level 1 is carbon mapping; Level 2 is demonstrated carbon reductions; Level 3 is demonstrated reductions plus “optimization” with partners; and Level 3+ is carbon neutrality
Overall, Sea-Tac demonstrated an eight percent reduction in airport terminal carbon emissions in just three years through energy efficiencies and low-carbon electricity. In that three year span, Sea-Tac Airport has reduced its annual electricity consumption
For more information about Port of Seattle, Seattle and Washington State visit: www.portseattle.org
Family friendly challenges added to shore excursion options
Luxury cruise company Celebrity Cruises has launched Family Tour Challenge, a new programme of shore excursions, designed exclusively for teenage families. Each tour has been developed to enable travellers to discover the world together through entertaining, competitive and enriching experiences. Each tour is shorter than standard excursions in duration, yet still packed with adventure and fun in order to make them more enjoyable for 12 – 17 year olds. The new programme of excursions covers a range of activities including a Spanish family flamenco dance-off in Barcelona, learning to sail and take part in a mini regatta in Bermuda or even taking part in a gondoliering challenge through Venice. Jo Rzymowska, managing director, Celebrity Cruises, UK and Ireland, explains: “Family holidays are made by ensuring that all of the activities and adventures work well for children as well as parents. We’re extending our award-winning approach to children’s activities on Celebrity Cruises’ ships into our on-land shore excursion programme. The new programme has been developed to allow families to learn new skills, have fun together and embrace a little competitive spirit along the way.”
The Family Tour Challenge excursions include: • Family Flamenco Dance Off, Barcelona (Spain) • Palma Treasure Hunting Adventure, available in Palma de Mallorca (Spain) • Venetian Gondoliering Challenge, Venice (Italy) • Douro River Sailing Challenge, Porto (Portugal) • Athens Sightseeing and Family Olympics, Athens (Greece) • Bermuda Gold Cup – Learn to sail and mini Regatta, Kings Wharf (Bermuda) • Island Rainforest Geocaching Adventure, Ketchikan (Alaska) • The Big Nugget, Skagway (Alaska) Once back onboard younger guests will continue to be enthralled and entertained with a wide range of activities available to choose from. These include X-Club teen entertainment featuring social activities and hangouts for teens, dedicated Xbox stations and the latest game consoles, sports activities, teen-only dance nights and for budding DJs the chance to get involved with the Scratch DJ Academy classes taught by seasoned DJ personalities. All Celebrity Cruises Youth Programmes are designed to cater for specific age groups to ensure all younger guests can make the most of their time onboard. For more information on family tour challenges and Celebrity Cruises’ family friendly holidays please visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk, call 0844 493 2043 or talk to your travel agent.
Why Quantum of the Seas is travelling backwards for 26 miles through Germany The pace of life in Lower Saxony, Germany, is relaxed and slow, and a drive through the area, along the banks of the River Ems, will reveal miles of pastures, wetlands and farmland dotted with small towns and villages. But this week there’s a lot of excitement in this north western district, as one of the world’s largest cruise ships makes its journey, or conveyance, from the shipbuilding town of Papenburg out to the North Sea. The fuss is about Quantum of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International’s newest and most technologically advanced cruise ship, which was constructed at Meyer Werft, a family owned Papenburg-based shipyard. The conveyance is a unique process for ships built here, as Meyer Werft is unconventionally situated inland, along the banks of the River Ems, to avoid the impact of storms on the North Sea. This makes it necessary for ships to travel down the river to get to the sea. While the conveyance of ships is not new for Meyer Werft – the shipyard has been doing this since 1795 – there are plenty of challenges to having a successful conveyance, and Quantum of the Seas will be especially demanding due to the size of the ship. At 348 meters long (1,141.73 feet long), 41.4 meters wide (135.8 feet wide) and weighing in at 167,800 gross tons, this ship is the largest ever to go through conveyance. “With Quantum being the largest ship that has ever been built at Meyer Werft, there are some power lines that need to be rerouted, and some bridges along the river actually have to be lifted out of the way with a crane to allow the ship to pass, including one that is used by one of the main railways into Holland,” continued Dahlgren. Making the process even more of a spectacle, ships are conveyed backwards because it’s usually easier to manoeuvre them in reverse, and Quantum’s journey will be managed the same way. Thousands of revellers from the surrounding local villages along the 26 mile route typically gather at the river bank to watch and celebrate each ship’s distinct journey. Come November, crowds will once again line a river bank to catch a glimpse as Quantum passes by, only this time it will be as she sails through the New York harbour... and she’ll be sailing forward instead of in reverse. To learn more about Quantum of the Seas visit: http://www.royalcaribbeanpresscenter.com/live/
Earlier in the month, the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ship, Oasis of the Seas arrived into the Keppel Verolme shipyard in Rotterdam ahead of its sailing to the UK. Arriving in Southampton for the first time on 15 October 2014, the ship will be 40 per cent larger than any other cruise ship to ever dock in the UK. Oasis of the Seas is longer than four football pitches and wider than almost six London buses parked end-to-end.
Queen Mary 2 Brings Home ‘Sacred Soil’ From WW1’s Flanders Fields At a dockside ceremony at Queen Mary 2 in Southampton today, Wednesday 8 October, the final bag of ‘Sacred Soil’ was brought back to the UK. The soil was the last of 70 bags gathered from the First World War cemeteries in Belgium to create a Flanders Field Memorial Garden at The Guards Museum at Wellington Barracks in London. The final bag of soil was gathered at the Ypres Cemetery and, by the iconic Menin Gate war memorial, was presented to Captain Kevin Oprey, Master of Queen Mary 2, by Mr Ian Hussein from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, on Sunday 5 October while the ship was berthed at Zeebrugge. The sandbag was then brought aboard Queen Mary 2 and placed on prominent display in the central Grand Lobby for the ship’s 2,600 passengers to view. A Commemorative Dinner for all passengers was held on board on 6 October and Andrew Wallis, Curator of the Guards Museum, gave a talk about the project to a packed audience. The soil was brought ashore today by two Queen Mary 2 cadets and in a moving ceremony Captain Kevin Oprey presented the sandbag to the Mayor of Southampton, Cllr Sue Blatchford, who is also Admiral of the Port. The soil was transferred from the ship’s care to a stretcher draped in a union jack flag, borne by soldiers of the 17 PM Regiment. The regiment’s Padre blessed the soil before the soldiers, in ceremonial dress, marched the stretcher to the bed of an awaiting military vehicle. Under the Regiment’s charge, this special cargo has now progressed through the City of Southampton to the Civic Hall where it will remain overnight, and on display to the public, before its final journey tomorrow: to Southampton Central station where it will taken aboard the 1300 hours train to London Waterloo. On arrival there the soil will be taken to its final resting place at the Guards Museum. The delivery of the soil by the Cunard flagship marks the culmination of a project to build a Memorial Garden containing soil brought back from every battlefield in Flanders where soldiers of the seven regiments of the Household Division died in World War 1. This has been a unique project in that the Commonwealth War Graves Commission had previously never allowed soil to leave the battlefield cemeteries. The 70 bags of soil were gathered by British and Belgian school children during the summer of 2013 and over 1,000 children from 140 schools took part, including Upper Shirley High in Southampton. The sandbags are made of hessian to the same design and by the same Flemish company that produced them for the trenches 100 years ago. Her Majesty The Queen will open the garden in November. Captain Oprey said: “It is an honour for Queen Mary 2 and Cunard line to have played a part in bringing this last, special bag of soil home to the UK. Many of our passengers have been moved by the presence of the soil on board and have wanted to pay their respects. Today’s ceremony is a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice made by so many in World War One”. Teacher Jo Laybourne - whose 15 year old daughter Lizzie is a pupil at Upper Shirley High in Southampton and took part in the collection of soil in Belgium - said: “It was a very special for Lizzie and Upper Shirley High to have been chosen to take part in this project. Like so many families, we lost relatives in World War One – my grandfather’s brother died in the Somme one year to the day after he arrived in France, and his two cousins aged 18 and 19 were also killed. Bringing the soil back to the UK is so symbolic of all the people who died on the battlefields and didn’t come home.” Andrew Wallis, Curator of the Guards Museum “We at The Guards Museum are thrilled to have worked with Cunard in transporting this last bag to its final resting place in Wellington Barracks. The sacrifice made by the Guards in The Great War is echoed in the huge losses suffered by Cunard’s crew and passengers so we hope everyone onboard the Queen Mary 2 will empathise and share in this act of remembrance and commemoration”.
Travel Counsellors Furthers Cruise Offering With CLIA Membership Independent travel company, Travel Counsellors has announced it has joined CLIA UK & Ireland, part of a global deal with the world’s largest cruise industry trade association, enabling the company to offer membership to its Travel Counsellor agents worldwide. The global deal with the organisation, which has further representation in North & South America, Europe, Asia & Australasia, will see the agents benefit from the wide range of training and events, with Travel Counsellors providing this to their agents at no extra cost to them. The membership in the UK & Ireland includes access to CLIA’s comprehensive Learning Academy covering a host of cruise products, destinations, sales techniques and the latest industry trends. Travel Counsellors will also be invited to a range of training events, ship visits and cruising conventions. CLIA UK & Ireland also operates the only cruise accreditation programme in the country, accredited by City & Guilds. “As we continue to focus on the cruise support, tools and training we give to our agents we felt joining CLIA was a great way to further enhance this offering,” comments Commercial Director Kirsten Hughes. “This membership gives even more credibility to our agents when marketing themselves to potential cruise customers and gives them access to some excellent training programmes, events and products, with CLIA boasting an impressive 60 plus cruise line members globally. It’s also an effective tool for our Travel Counsellors who may be new to cruise, which again is complemented by the in-house training and support we offer.” The news comes as the company completes a series of cruise based activity to celebrate Cruise Week, organised by CLIA. This includes daily cruise webcasts featuring a host of cruise lines and products, as well as a special cruising ‘tool kit’ to help them promote cruise to new and existing customers. To support the event Travel Counsellors also produced a dedicated 32 page cruise brochure, which agents were able to personalise and send to their customers. Commenting on the partnership CLIA UK & Ireland Director, Andy Harmer, said: “The cruise sector offers huge potential for growth and I’m delighted that Travel Counsellors have become members and are investing in such a great industry. They have a great reputation in the travel industry and we have been keen to work with them and their agents for some time. It’s very gratifying that our association is recognised as providing unique cruise training and resources that support travel agents in promoting and selling ocean and river cruise holidays.” Picture caption: CLIA UK & Ireland Director Andy Harmer, left, joins Travel Counsellors Commercial Director Kirsten Hughes on the company’s TCTV agent webcast.
‘True Luxury Is Intangible’ - New Campaign From Regent Seven Seas Cruises Regent Seven Seas Cruises® is launching a new brand campaign highlighting the ‘intangible’ side of a luxury cruise with Regent. With a strapline ‘True Luxury is Intangible’ the most inclusive luxury cruise line invites cruisers to liberate their expectations from the usual cruise experience at sea. “We’re led to believe that every passenger ship afloat offers a life of hedonistic pleasure, with all mentions of ships prefaced by the word luxury”, said Cecilia Abert, Senior Director Sales and Marketing for UK and Europe. “The reality is the meaning of the term luxury’ has diminished in recent years, leaving a sense that tangible luxury has retreated. True Luxury is an integral element of our DNA. Our onboard experience elevates our experience to a different level of ‘luxury’. One that includes, space, freedom and elegance. Where the little things in life, that are personal and individual, assume a value that’s priceless. We’ve always been at the forefront of innovation, moving the industry forward with the addition of various inclusions - and the industry has followed, but not in the truly luxurious way that Regent offers. Our features, inclusions and what we offer are important, but it’s not just what’s included, it’s about how it makes our guests feel. True luxury is intangible. Guests who sail with Regent can liberate their expectations from a normal cruise experience! Our new 60 second snippets on the www.intangibleluxury.com are designed to educate both agents and consumers alike about the smaller ‘intangible’ subtleties that make all the difference to a guests’ onboard experience, and we’re delighted with the results.” The launch of the new campaign includes: • Adverts in both trade and consumer press • A dedicated ‘True Luxury is Intangible’ booklet for agents to send out to guests with other RSSC collateral • A dedicated ‘True Luxury is Intangible’ microsite (www.intangibleluxury.com) featuring a series of ‘True Luxury is Intangible’ 60 second snippets giving a snapshot into the intangible elements that make the line’s refined and sophisticated experience.
Voyages of Discovery Unveil Sleek New Look
Voyages of Discovery announces rebranding and launches new brochure with a simpler, more relaxed approach to travelling the world. Following extensive customer research, the brand will be introducing simplified cabin categories, brand new packages and exciting new itineraries as well as a new butler service from November 2015. Plus, Voyages of Discovery is offering agent 10% commission on all the new packages, including butler service. Colin Wilson, group sales director, says: “It was made very clear from our extensive customer research that passengers wanted a simpler, easier approach to their cruise booking. Simplified cabin categories, moving from 20 down to 11, will make it easier to pick the right one. A new butler service will add a touch of luxury for passengers travelling in the Owners Suite. Guests in Junior or Balcony suites will also be able to upgrade to this exclusive extra from just £435 per person.” He also adds: “Similarly, ‘add-ons’ including spa and drinks packages will allow guests to personalise their trip and make their own decisions about what is important to them. We also introduced a new logo and new website with a more contemporary look with simplified search functionality, improved content and tablet and mobile phone capabilities, will further enhance the experience from the very outset.” The new brochure, with its fresh look, includes 14 exciting new itineraries through the Atlantic, Caribbean, South and Central America – including cruising the Panama Canal – and across to Africa and Iberia. Highlights include Voyager’s maiden visit to Mexico’s Pacific coast and Algeria, along with a journey along the North East Coast of South America to explore unique ports of call including Suriname, Guiana and French Guiana. Exciting new itineraries include: Atlantic Showcase Join Voyager on this 14 day cruise to extend the summer as she heads south from Gaudi’s Barcelona, making her maiden call in Algeria, before travelling to Morocco, beautiful Maderia and ending the journey in the dramatic volcanic Canaries. Highlights of the cruise include the UNESCO world heritage site of ancient Tipasa, Portugal’s hidden gem Porto Santo, and wandering the narrow streets of Rabat’s old Kasbah and souks. Prices start from only £1,020. Departs Barcelona, 28th October 2015.
South America’s Wild Coast Alternatively, join Voyager as she makes a special journey along South America’s ‘Wild Coast’. An opportunity to explore the beauty between the Orinoco and Amazon deltas, guests will experience the former Dutch colonies of Suriname and Guyana before enjoying beautiful Caribbean islands including Tobago, Trinidad, Grenada and Barbados. Prices for this 13 day cruise start from £2,070 per person. Departs Bridgetown, 24th November 2015. Colours of Central America This brand new itinerary features all new ports of call for Voyager. Join her on this exciting itinerary and discover the atmospheric cities and untamed beauty of Central America, as the ship sails from colonial Cartagena to cosmopolitan Acapulco. Guests will travel up the beautiful Caribbean coast, through the extraordinary Panama Canal, to the sublime shores of the Pacific, dotted with national parks, palm-lined beaches, coffee plantations, tiny villages and forested mountains. Prices start from £2,070 for this 14 day cruise. Departs Cartagena, 31st January 2016 Prices for all cruises include all relevant overseas transfers, meals and entertainment and the guest speaker programme on board the ships. For further information, visit www.voyagesofdiscovery.com/ 0844 417 2471.
Hebridean Island Cruises In the 2015 edition of Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships, published last week, author Douglas Ward reflects on 30 of his most memorable cruise experiences, which serve as an ocean-going bucket list for cruisers who seek their own trip of a lifetime. Amongst the 30, is Douglas’ experience of the Hebridean Princess – which he described as: “This English country inn afloat is the real McCoy.” During the first 30-year lifespan of this book, I have been privileged to enjoy some wonderful experiences aboard cruise ships. Here, in no particular order, are my top 30 highlights: Fingal’s Cave Passing within an arm’s distance of Fingal’s Cave on the uninhabited island of Staffa (one of Scotland’s Inner Hebridean Islands), as Felix Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture (inspired by the real molten lava rock cavern) was played on the open back deck of the pocket-sized Hebridean Princess. At the time – late one chilly morning in spring – I was sitting wrapped in a tartan blanket under a grey, foreboding sky, enjoying a single malt whisky.
Silver Galapagos Completes Final Phase of Renovations Silversea’s intimate, all-suite Silver Galapagos is currently sailing on her first expedition voyage following completion of a second phase of renovations undertaken in September, during a month-long dry dock in Panama. All of the ship’s suites, corridors and the Explorer Lounge have been completely refurbished. An elegant blue and beige colour palette was utilised to create an interior décor echoing that of the recently refurbished Silver Discoverer. These further enhancements have achieved a consistency of interior design within the expedition fleet. The 100-guest Silver Galapagos underwent an initial partial refurbishment last year, highlighted by the installation of new in-suite bathrooms featuring rich marble detailing, plus a new fitness centre, massage room, beauty salon, outdoor Jacuzzi, and Silversea’s signature outdoor dining venue, The Grill. Silver Galapagos sails Saturday to Saturday on seven-day voyages through the Galápagos Islands, following either a western or north central route. These expedition cruises offer adventurous travellers the life-enriching chance to discover a wild, pristine paradise that has long been regarded as a natural laboratory of evolution. On complimentary expeditions ashore guided by an experienced expedition team (certified by the Galápagos National Park Service), Silversea’s guests may experience up-close encounters with an abundance of wildlife that includes sun-basking land iguanas, giant tortoises, blue- and red-footed boobies, colourful marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins and Darwin’s famous finches.
VIPs join award-winning Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines on board Black Watch to celebrate Port of Tyne success Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines welcomed a delegation of VIPs on a visit to its 804-guest cruise ship, Black Watch, on her turnaround call at the Port of Tyne, Newcastle on 9th October 2014. The VIP visit – which included North Tyneside and South Shields MPs Mary Glindon and Emma LewellBuck, along with a number of key travel agents and media partners – was hosted jointly by Fred. Olsen, the Port of Tyne and CLIA. Mike Rodwell, Managing Director of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines will be offering an even greater number of cruise departures from Newcastle in 2015, with eight in total, and we are pleased to be contributing to the £60 million that passenger shipping generates for the North Eastern economy each year.” Andrew Moffat, Port of Tyne Chief Executive Officer, said: “The Port of Tyne welcomes over 625,000 cruise and ferry passengers each year. Some are taking advantage of the Port’s popularity with some of the world’s largest cruise lines and joining a cruise ship here to sail across the globe. We look forward to welcoming many more visits from Fred. Olsen, who continue to introduce new and exciting cruise itineraries attracting customers from the North East and beyond.’’ Andy Harmer, Director of CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “Globally, cruise travel has grown 77 per cent in just the last 10 years, and last year, we saw a record 1.7 million Brits take a cruise. Our research shows that destination remains the number one reason why people choose a cruise holiday and there are some great cities and ports that can be visited on a cruise.”
Moody’s Upgrades Port Canaveral’s Bond Rating Moody’s Investors Service has upgraded Canaveral Port Authority’s $30.2 million in outstanding revenue bonds to A2 from A3 and rated its financial outlook stable. The upgrade was attributed to low leverage, cruise growth, stable finances and pro-active capital plan management. Port Canaveral’s five-year capital plan totals nearly $600 million, which will be financed with a combination of grants, matching funds, cash flow and unrestricted cash balances. The major current project is a new cruise terminal for Royal Caribbean, which is paying half of the $105 million total cost. Moody’s viewed as a strength, the Port Authority’s 35-year lease with GT USA, the U-S subsidiary of privatelyowned international cargo operator Gulftainer, to develop Canaveral’s container terminal. The agreement includes minimum guarantees and $100 million of investments in infrastructure, equipment and labor. The terminal begins operations at the end of this year. “We continue to strengthen our financial profile by growing our cruise business with market leaders and partnering with global cargo operator Gulftainer as we enter into the container business,” said Port Canaveral CEO John E. Walsh. According to Chief Financial Officer Rodger Rees, “The guaranteed minimum throughput and Gulftainer’s significant capital investment help to minimize our risk as we diversify our revenue base.” At the end of 2013, Canaveral had $98.5 million in total outstanding port revenue bonds.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises Brings Luxury To All Corners Of The World With Newly Released Winter 2015-16 Itineraries Regent Seven Seas Cruises unveiled its 2015-2016 Winter Collection, revealing a lineup that features a variety of destination-rich itineraries that incorporate the mystic lands of Asia and Africa, iconic cities in South America and Europe, and through the breathtaking landscapes of the Caribbean and Alaska. In total, the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet will visit more than 150 ports in 50 different countries with its Winter Collection, including several overnight stays in the world’s most desirable destinations. For sailings in the Mediterranean, Asia and Africa, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is introducing new options for its complimentary pre- and post-cruise land programmes which include a free three-night hotel stay, complemented by guided tours that immerse guests in the destination. The luxury line also introduced eight new Grand Voyages, ranging from a 35-night Cape Town to Miami sailing, all the way up to a 72-night South American roundtrip Miami cruise. In total, the just released Winter Collection includes eight destinations never before visited by Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships. The new ports of call include: • • • •
Boracay Island, Philippines • Fort-de-France, Martinique • Khasab, Oman • Santa Marta, Columbia •
El Guamache (Isla Margarita), Venezuela Jeju, South Korea Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe Shimizu, Japan
With such an elaborate array of itineraries, the breakdown below outlines in more detail the regions and destinations where the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet will sail in winter 2015-2016. Seven Seas Explorer is scheduled to join the rest of the award-winning Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet in the summer of 2016. Designed to be the most luxurious ship ever built, reservations for the maiden voyage and inaugural season for Seven Seas Explorer will be available to book in early 2015. For more specific itinerary information or for general information about Regent Seven Seas Cruises visit www.rssc.com or call Reservations on 023 8068 2280 or contact a specialist travel agent. Bookings for these exciting new 2016 cruises will open from 1pm, Wednesday 15 October 2015. In the picture (f.l.t.r.): Ian McQuade, General Manager, Portland Harbour Authority, Anita Hodson, Director Nautical and Port Operations, and John Stoll, Vice President, Land Programs, both Crystal Cruises.
Atlantic Alliance: Crystal Cruises receives TRIPLE A-Award 2015 The Atlantic Alliance honors Crystal Cruises with the “Triple A - Award” for 2015 and handed over the silver plaque to Anita Hodson, Director Nautical and Port Operations, and John Stoll, Vice President, Land Programs in their offices in Los Angeles last week. Hamburg, 14th October 2014. The Atlantic Alliance is a group of 18 Atlantic European cruise ports, representing a region that extends from northern Germany to southern Portugal, including Great Britain and Ireland. It enables all cruise lines and their guests to visit top tourist destinations each with their own unique identity but united by the sea. Each year The Atlantic Alliance awards cruise companies that have made a particularly significant contribution to this cruise region with the Atlantic Alliance Award, otherwise known as the “Triple-A Award”. For 2015, the Atlantic Alliance has chosen to honor the luxury cruise operator that has maximized destination involvement by spending on average, the longest time in port per call and hence contributing to the region. “We consider that the longer the ship stays in port the higher an overall contribution they provide to our ports, destinations and to the local cruise community”, Nadine Palatz, Marketing Manager Atlantic Alliance stated. The winner is...
CRYSTAL CRUISES Los Angeles based 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 sails to all seven continents, providing worldwide vacations of five to 100+ days that bridge the best of land and sea. Crystal Symphony & Crystal Symphony combined for a total of 28 calls staying a total of 410 hours in the Atlantic Alliance ports om 2014; with an average length of stay per call of 20 hours. Crystal Cruises will increase overnights and late port stays for the 2015/16 season. At the same time, the cruise will offer exciting pre/post hotel packages and Extended Land Program options which will offer more opportunities for guests to experience more of Atlantic Alliance cruise ports and destinations. Crystal Cruises received the award from Ian McQuade, General Manager, Portland Harbour Authority, who represented the member ports of the Atlantic Alliance during the award ceremony in Crystal Corporate Headquarters in Los Angeles on Tuesday, September 30, 2014. “We at Crystal Cruises, are honored to accept the 2014 “Triple A – Award”. We congratulate the Atlantic Alliance network of top luxury destinations which consistently exceed expectations. As we continue to expand our port-intensive itineraries featuring longer stays and overnights it is critical that we find quality destinations that offer unique and diverse shore side opportunities that will enhance our overall cruise experience. Our sincere thanks to the members of the Atlantic Alliance for this
Carnival Cruise Lines Announces Spring 2015 ‘Carnival Live Concert Series’ Artist Lineup Today Carnival Cruise Lines unveiled its new Carnival LIVE Concert Series roster for spring 2015, bringing more of the best live music to sea from some of the most popular and highly requested music acts. Coming on board at the beginning of next year will be Journey, Rascal Flatts, Little Big Town, Smokey Robinson, and Styx - back by popular demand for the second season. The exciting 2015 Carnival LIVE concert line-up continues this one-of-a-kind entertainment option, whilst building on the success of a debut year of high-energy, sold-out on-board performances. In addition to this incredible mix of GRAMMY® Award- and CMA Award-winning artists and nominees, next year the cruise line will announce even more acts scheduled for the latter half of 2015. Carnival LIVE was created to give guests the opportunity to experience exclusive live entertainment from major music artists, all at a tremendous value and with great convenience. Guests attend shows in the ship’s main theaters – which range in seating capacity from 900 to 1,300 – for an intimate on-board performance with not a bad seat in the house. Guests will have even more Carnival vessels, homeports and itineraries to choose from with a total of ten “Fun Ships” departing from six U.S. homeports hosting concerts in spring 2015. Carnival LIVE voyages will originate in Miami, Port Canaveral, Tampa, and Jacksonville, Florida; Charleston, South Carolina; and, for the first
time, Galveston, Texas - the line’s second largest homeport. The 2015 Carnival LIVE Concert Series kicks off next March and will feature one or more major artist each month, performing multiple shows on Carnival ships docked in one of three ports of call: Cozumel, Nassau and a new port for the programme, St. Thomas. Artists board the ship in port, perform in the main show lounge, and then debark following the concert. • Journey will kick off the 2015 roster with two rock anthem-filled performances on 18th and 19th March in St. Thomas. • The award-winning Little Big Town brings their unmistakable sound to “Fun Ships” in Nassau for three appearances on 30th and 31st March, and 1st April. • Guests “Cruisin’” to see Smokey Robinson sing timeless classics from his 50-year music career can catch the icon 21st, 22nd, and 23rd April in Cozumel. • In May, country trio Rascal Flatts, one of the top-selling live artists in any genre, will perform a series of three shows for guests in Cozumel (5th, 6th, and 7th May). • Rock fans are invited to “Come Sail Away” to see one of four Styx concerts to be performed in Nassau (16th, 17th, 18th and 20th June). Carnival LIVE tickets for 2015 range from $35 to $60 for general admission, significantly less than land-based concerts. VIP tickets are available for $125 to $250, offering fans seating in the first four rows, an artist meet and greet, a souvenir photo with the artist and a commemorative concert pass. For a calendar of spring 2015 Carnival LIVE concerts and to learn more about the Carnival LIVE sailings this fall featuring Lady Antebellum, Trace Adkins, Jewel, Daughtry and more, visit www.carnival.com/CarnivalLIVE, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL.
European Waterways’ Announces 2015 Journeys of Discovery Across Nine Countries This month has seen the launch to the marketplace of European Waterways’ 2015 Brochure, featuring a choice of luxury hotel barge cruises in nine European countries – France, Belgium, Italy, Holland, Luxembourg, Germany, Scotland, England and Ireland. The new 62-page, full-colour, illustrated Brochure - and accompanying price insert – features a double page spread on the scenic cruise destinations – from the Canal du Nivernais and Canal du Midi in France, to the River Po in Italy and Caledonian Canal in Scotland; sample regional menus and fine wines; and a taste of the daily excursions to be experienced en route. Highlights for 2015 include: • in April a series of three, 6-night World War One Commemorative cruises aboard the 12-passenger hotel barge La Belle Epoque, along waterways which pass through the battlefields of Flanders and the Somme • off-the-beaten-track excursions, for example, the Aalsmeer flower auction in Holland, or the Troglodyte cave dwellings in the Loire Valley • longer waterway journeys through Holland, Belgium, France, Germany & Luxembourg – trans-regional voyages for the more adventurous travellers, navigating a longer route of varied landscapes Accommodating from 6 - 20 passengers, the fully-crewed fleet of 18 European Waterways’ floating hotel barges offer discerning travellers the chance to embark on journeys of discovery along some of Europe’s most beautiful inland waterways, while enjoying firstclass service and like-minded congenial company. The hotel barge cruising “difference” – varying from that of the more mainstream forms of cruising – provides a relaxed, private house party atmosphere; access to waterways inaccessible to larger vessels; travelling less than 70 miles at a leisurely pace; and unique experiences such as the Arzviller Boat Elevator, Eiffel’s Pont Canal de Briare and the Malpas Tunnel. Groups of friends, or multi-generational families can also charter any of the hotel barges exclusively – perhaps for a special celebration; or a wide selection of themed charter cruises can be arranged, appealing to special interest groups, whether golf, or wine appreciation, walking, or tandem barge cruises for larger groups. Typically, 6-night voyages include all meals, selected domaine and chateau wines, an open bar, daily escorted excursions, local transfers and use of all onboard facilities such as bicycles and spa pools. European Waterways will also be exhibiting at these travel trade events in the coming weeks: • WTM, ExCel Centre, London, November 3-6. Stand Number EM2053 • PURE Life Experiences, Marrakech, November 10-14. Stand Number B09 • CLIA River Cruise Convention, Port of Amsterdam, November 16-17. when hotel barge Panache will be available to view
Tauck Launches U.K. Sales Team, Reservations Center & Marketing Efforts
Holland America Line launches winter 2015/2016 holidays
European River cruising
Tauck, the leader in premium quality guided tours, river cruises and small ship ocean cruises, is taking big steps to better serve U.K.-based travelers and travel agents. The company recently hired a field sales force to serve the U.K. market, it has opened a new reservations center in London, and it is launching a new U.K. website and travel brochures priced in GBP. This marks the first time ever in Tauck’s 90-year history that the company has embarked on any such initiatives in a foreign country.
In anticipation of cold weather to come, Holland America Line has launched a brand new winter cruise holidays brochure covering winter sun cruise holidays from September 2015 to April 2016. The brochure incorporates destinations such as Australasia, South Pacific, Asia, Caribbean, South America, the Panama Canal and Africa, as well as a number of Grand Voyages.
According to Steve Spivak, Tauck Vice President, Global Sales, the expanded efforts in the U.K. are all about providing service commensurate with the quality of Tauck’s journeys. “We currently bring travelers to more than 70 countries, so operationally we’re already a global company, and last year we actually hosted travelers from more than 80 different countries on our tours and cruises,” said Spivak. “However, in order to provide the best possible service to U.K.-based travelers and travel agents, we knew we had to have more of a presence here. We’ve clearly made that commitment, and we’re looking forward to better serving our guests and travel agents in the U.K. market.”
ms Noordam debuts in Australasia - more balcony staterooms than ever before Vista-class ship ms Noordam will be positioned in Australasia for the first time during winter 2015/2016. Carrying 1,972 guests, the ms Noordam offers 25 staterooms on the observation deck, most of which feature a private verandah. There is also a retreat area with luxury cabanas for guests to hire. The ship will be sailing 13 to 15- night Australia & New Zealand or South Pacific cruises from Sydney or Auckland, more leisurely Great Barrier Reef cruises and a 33-night Australia circumnavigation featuring Komodo Island and Bali.
Leading Tauck’s new three-person sales team as U.K. & Ireland Country Manager is Ray Steward, a travel industry veteran of nearly 30 years. Steward joins Tauck after holding sales, marketing and general management positions at firms including Western & Oriental Travel and Regent Holidays, and Mundicolor Holidays. Most recently, Steward was Sales & Marketing Director for The Cruise Portfolio. In addition to managing Tauck’s overall sales and marketing efforts in the U.K. Stewart will also personally manage the company’s accounts in the southeast of England. Emma Taylor brings over 15 years of travel industry experience to her new role as Tauck Sales Manager, including past positions with Mundy Cruising and The Cruise Portfolio. With Tauck, she’ll oversee accounts in Northern Ireland, Ireland, southwestern England, and southern Wales, Tauck Sales Manager Kathryn Coles has been in the industry for over a decade, including a number of positions with Club Med. Coles will manage Tauck’s accounts in central and northern England, as well as northern Wales and Scotland.
Unusual Asia itineraries – including Solar Eclipse Holland America Line’s ms Volendam will be sailing 14-night itineraries to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia through winter 2015/2016, whilst ms Rotterdam will again cruise an 89-night Passage to the Far East roundtrip from Southampton, departing on 8 January 2016. Holland America Line’s unusual Asia itineraries for winter 2015/2016 include an Indonesian Explorer & Solar Eclipse cruise departing from Singapore on 1 March 2016. There will also be two special cruise itineraries in autumn 2015 on ms Ryndam and ms Statendam. The ms Ryndam’s 28-night Far East Explorer sails from Venice to Singapore, via the Suez Canal and Arabia, to India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia; whilst the ms Statendam will be sailing a 30 night voyage from Seattle to Singapore, featuring the Hawaiian islands, the Philippines, Malaysia, the Marshall islands, Micronesia and Mariana islands.
Earlier this monrth Tauck also launched a new U.K. Reservations Sales Center, with company personnel assisting agents and travelers via its just-established toll-free number, 0800 810 8020, and through email at tauckreservations@tauck.co.uk. Tauck personnel are currently in the U.K. staffing the new call center, while the new U.K. Reservations Sales Counselors are undergoing training at Tauck’s U.S. headquarters.
Eight ships in the Caribbean and historical Panama Canal cruises Eight of Holland America Line’s ships will be offering seven to 16 night cruises of the Caribbean from October 2015 to April 2016, most including a day at the cruise line’s awardwinning, unspoiled private island Half Moon Cay. The seven night cruises have been designed to make them easy to combine for a more in-depth Caribbean experience, with no repeat ports and extra savings. Meanwhile, Holland America Line will be featuring 10 Panama Canal itineraries between 10 and 22 nights, all of which include a full daylight transit, calls into Central American and Mexican ports and educational talks by experts on the 100 year old canal.
NEW WEBSITE & BROCHURES PRICED IN GBP To support its expanded presence in the U.K., Tauck has also launched a new website, www.tauck.co.uk, and it will be producing British iterations of selected brochures. The first such brochure is now available, and the 116-page volume highlights 45 of Tauck’s land and cruise itineraries in Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East and Australia/New Zealand. Tauck’s journeys are priced in Sterling, air-inclusive packages are now available, and all itineraries are ATOL of ABTA-protected. Tauck will also be hosting approximately 75 U.K. agents aboard its newly-launched ms Savor riverboat from November 1 – 5, when they attend an educational Tauck Academy seminar. By successfully completing the Tauck Academy curriculum, attendees become Tauck Certified agents who qualify for special benefits and other exclusive opportunities provided by the company. Tauck Academy includes nine hours of intensive classroom training followed by a comprehensive exam. Topics covered include Tauck’s history, details of the company’s extensive product line, and what separates Tauck’s tours and cruises from those of its competitors. U.K. travelers interested in more information can contact their local travel professional, contact Tauck at 0800 810 8020 or tauckreservations@tauck.co.uk, or visit the company’s website www.tauck.co.uk.
Four ships take on South America and Antarctica – including Rio Carnaval cruises! Holland America Line will position four ships in South America for winter 2015/2016. The ms Zaandam will offer a range of 14-38 night itineraries, from South America Passage cruises featuring the Chilean Fjords, Glacier Alley, the Falklands, Chile, Argentina and Uruguay, through to Inca Discoveries focusing on Mexico, Guatemala and Peru, and 21-night Antarctica cruises with visits and lectures from scientists and polar experts. The Maasdam will also be offering a 47-night Amazon and Carnaval Explorer cruise, which spends two nights in Rio during Carnaval, whilst the ms Prinsendam will sail the Amazon, round trip from Florida. For more information or to book, contact Holland America Line on www.hollandamerica.co.uk or call 0843 374 2300
Crystal Cruises Emerges From Dry Dock With New Innovations and Lavish Finishes Award-winning Crystal Symphony has emerged from a two-week, $20 million-plus dry dock redesign with lushly re-imagined spaces, indoors and out. Luxury cruise leader Crystal Cruises unveiled the ship’s new look on 27th September as guests embarked on an eight-night Hamburg-Lisbon voyage, greeted by contemporary and elegant new designs in the Crystal Plaza and adjacent Crystal Cove Bar area – the ship’s main activity “hubs”. Luxury travellers onboard will also experience a new outdoor “Fitness Garden” spanning three aft decks; top of the line indoor fitness equipment; redesigned spa and casino spaces; additional PURE allergy-friendly staterooms; and technological upgrades throughout the ship. “We continue to invest in creating a contemporary and sumptuous environment that meets the travellers’ desire,” says Crystal President and COO, Edie Rodriguez. “The new features and spaces added during this dry dock are astounding, and offer our guests the relaxed, yet luxurious comfort that they have come to expect and enjoy on Crystal Cruises.” For further information and reservations please call Crystal Cruises on 020 7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk
Norwegian Escape to Feature Popular Design Innovation: 678 Ocean Place and The Waterfront Norwegian Cruise Line today revealed that Norwegian Escape will incorporate The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place, the immensely popular design innovation first introduced on Norwegian Breakaway and also on Norwegian Getaway. This concept includes an oceanfront boardwalk lined with restaurants, bars and shops, combined with three expansive, flowing decks of dining, bars, entertainment, gaming and more. The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place have taken cruising to new heights and offer an unparalleled experience with a unique connection to the ocean. Norwegian Escape is currently under construction and is scheduled for delivery in October 2015. Located on deck 8, The Waterfront is a revolutionary outdoor experience that adds a whole new dimension to Norwegian’s signature Freestyle Cruising, by offering a number of seaside venues that will feature breathtaking views and a sense of connection with the ocean. The hub of the ship will be 678 Ocean Place, a space that uniquely flows, intertwines and connects three decks of daytime and nighttime amusements. “The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place have revolutionised the industry, receiving rave reviews from our guests and travel partners,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “We knew from the start that Norwegian Escape should also feature this game-changing design. With this new, larger ship, we’ve taken the concept up another notch and we’ve added some additional interesting venues and features.” Following inaugural events in Southampton and its maiden transatlantic voyage, Norwegian Escape will begin weekly seven-day cruises from her year-round homeport of Miami to the Eastern Caribbean on 14 November 2015. The ship will be the largest to home port year-round in Miami, carrying 4,200 guests to tropical Caribbean destinations including St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship’s signature hull artwork is designed by marine wildlife artist and champion of ocean conservation, Guy Harvey, which features an underwater scene of marine wildlife. Norwegian’s newest ship is Harvey’s largest canvas to date, at 1065 feet in length. Accommodation includes the company’s signature luxury ship–within-a-ship complex: The Haven by Norwegian; along with Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; and many options for families, multi-generational groups, spa enthusiasts and more. For more information on the itineraries available and to book visit www.ncl.co.uk or call 0845 201 8900.
Andy Harmer Director aharmer@cruising.org CLIA UK & Ireland Penny Guy PR Director pguy@cruising.org First Floor, 41/42 Eastcastle Street, Adele Fitzpatrick-Foster Events and Training Manager afoster@cruising.org London, W1W 8DU Alex Holubowicz Creative and Digital Executive aholubowicz@cruising.org www.cruiseexperts.org ukinfo@cruising.org Augustus Lonsdale Membership Services Executive alonsdale@cruising.org t: +44 (0)20 7436 2449 Kathy Bortolin Office Manager & Support Executive kbortolin@cruising.org