CLIA UK & Ireland Monthly Newsletter Edition 27

Edition 27 - July 2015

Membership News CRUISE INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTION TO UK PLC GROWS WITH NEW CAPACITY FORECAST TO BOOST MARKET IN 2015 The cruise industry’s multi-billion pound contribution to the British economy continued to grow in 2014, according to a Europe-wide report released today by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

The cruise industry’s direct contribution to the UK economy, including items such as goods and services purchased by the cruise lines, and the salaries of their employees, grew to €3.155 billion (£2.247 billion) from €3.125 billion (£2.225 billion) the previous year.

The cruise industry’s direct contribution to the combined economies of Europe grew by 2.8% to €16.637 billion (£11.842 billion) in 2014, whilst the overall contribution of the cruise industry, including indirect items such as spending by cruise line suppliers, grew by 2.1% from €39.361 billion (£28.043 billion) to €40.223 billion (£28.659 billion).

The industry created around another 800 jobs in the UK in 2014, taking the total number to 71,222, and accounting for a fifth of all cruise industry jobs across Europe. The cruise industry supports almost 350,000 jobs in Europe.

The UK remains one of Europe’s biggest cruise markets, with a 25.7% share of passenger numbers in 2014 – a year in which 1.64 million British passengers took an ocean cruise.

The port of Southampton retained its position as Europe’s largest embarkation and disembarkation port, with a total of 1.57 million passengers passing through the port in 2014. During the year, there were 422 cruise ship turnarounds at Southampton, each of which is estimated to contribute £2 million to the local economy according to research undertaken by the port.

Southampton is one of a number of UK ports forecasting a major increase in cruise traffic in 2015, predicting that passenger numbers will jump 11% to 1.75 million.

This year, the Hampshire port is the base for two brand new ships - P&O Cruises’ Britannia and Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas – whilst Princess Cruises Royal Princess, which launched in 2014, returns to Southampton for the summer 2015 season.

Tilbury Port, which serves London, is also seeing a large jump in cruise traffic. 2014 passenger traffic totalled 54,000 and Tilbury is forecasting that this will almost double to 100,000 passengers in 2015, with further growth also expected in 2016 Other ports predicting an increase in cruise traffic include Liverpool, which in May hosted Cunard’s ‘Three Queens’ – the Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 – and forecasts cruise passenger growth of 12% to 83,000 in 2015.

Bristol’s renaissance as a port continues this year, having restarted cruise ship sailings in 2013 for the first time in 20 years, with passenger traffic forecast to grow 11.5% in 2015 to 20,000.

Cruise traffic to islands around the UK mainland is forecast to grow strongly too with cruise traffic through Guernsey port predicted to jump 20% to 130,000 and through Orkney by 17% to 79,000 passengers.

Andy Harmer, Director, CLIA UK & Ireland, says: “Today’s reports reaffirms the UK’s position not only as one of the world’s major cruise markets, but as a country which continues to reap multi-billion pound dividends from the cruise industry.

Across the UK, ports and the cruise lines that serve them are playing an ever-increasing role in boosting the economies that surround them.”

Pierfrancesco Vago, CLIA Europe’s Chairman, said: “The cruise industry is making a vital contribution to Europe’s economic recovery. In 2014 the cruise industry injected nearly €40 billion into the European economy and sustained almost 350,000 European jobs, over 80,000 of which were in the manufacturing sector. These record results are something we’ve all worked hard for and we should celebrate and build on.”

Crystal Cruises To Expand Luxury Travel In Ocean, River, Yacht And……Air

Luxury Line Announces Unprecedented Plans to Become First and Only Hospitality Brand to Offer Luxurious Explorations and Adventures for Ocean, Expedition, River, Yacht and Air Exactly 25 years after Crystal Cruises set its course as a leader in luxury cruising with the launch of the first of three ships, the world’s most awarded luxury cruise line is charting a new, much more vast, route. Aboard the line’s annual President’s Cruise on Crystal Serenity and Chairman’s Cruise on Crystal Symphony respectively, Crystal’s president and CEO, Edie Rodriguez and Chairman Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay announced today Crystal’s plans for the most significant brand expansion in the history of luxury travel and hospitality. Over the next three years, Crystal Cruises will introduce new ships – effectively establishing three brand new classes of cruising – as well as its own Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

In their special address to guests, Rodriguez and Tan Sri Lim made clear of new parent company, Genting Hong Kong’s investment in maintaining Crystal’s award-winning reputation and writing a new chapter in the continuing story of Crystal Cruises. The Chairman stated, “Our intent is to make Crystal Cruises the core of what will become the world’s premier luxury hospitality and lifestyle brand portfolio, not only for the immediate future but for years to come.”

In her announcement on Crystal Serenity, Rodriguez shared her enthusiasm about the expansion of Crystal Cruises, saying, “We continue to think bigger, aiming to create unparalleled luxury experiences and adventures for our loyal and new guests, who – like Crystal – continue to seek broader horizons and new perspectives on the world.” She added, “We are ecstatic to continue pioneering new areas of luxury travel. Crystal’s newly expanded fleet will truly be travelers’ passport to virtually the entire world.”

The stunningly ambitious timeline of new Crystal products begins at the end of 2015.

Crystal Yacht Cruises – December 23, 2015 Late this year, Crystal Esprit will embark on its maiden voyage as the first expansion of the Crystal Cruises fleet.

The vessel is an extravagantly appointed yacht, delivered to Crystal Cruises by Genting Hong Kong (GHK), and extensively redesigned to reflect the stylish elegance for which Crystal is renowned. The 62-guest, 3,300-tonnage yacht will offer intimate, exclusive, and immersive experiences with a boutique ambiance. The all-suite yacht will feature posh, high-end finishes and modern technology, and is outfitted with some decidedly extreme features, like a two-passenger submarine, four 10-passenger zodiacs for special excursions and a 12-passenger Wider 32-foot super yacht tender for special boating adventures. Additionally, at their guests’ fingertips are water skis, wake boards, kayaks, jet skis, fishing, scuba, and snorkel equipment.

Set for delivery in November 2015, Crystal Esprit marks the debut of the new all-inclusive Crystal Yacht Cruises programme, which will sail regional, warm-water itineraries of seven days and offer thrilling experiences on water and ashore. The first voyage sails December 23, 2015, exploring the Seychelles Islands, followed by an inclusive, postcruise New Year’s Eve celebration at the Taj Dubai Hotel. Effective immediately for Crystal Society members (the line’s repeat guest loyalty programme), 2015 through early 2018 Crystal Yacht Cruises itineraries are exclusively available for booking through August 31, 2015.

Crystal River Cruises – 2017 The spring of 2017 brings more growth with Crystal River Cruises. Featuring expertly curated itineraries, Crystal River Cruises will offer the hallmarks of the all-inclusive Crystal experience – six-star service, world-class dining, and enriching shore-side adventures. Spacious suites with exquisitely designed interiors and elegant public rooms will punctuate Crystal’s entry into worldwide river cruising.

Crystal Luxury Air – 2017 Also in 2017, Crystal’s brand of Six-Star luxury will soar to new heights with the launch of Crystal Luxury Air, becoming the first in the luxury travel industry to offer extravagant around-the-world trips on the world’s most advanced twin-aisle Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

The plush aircraft, which typically seats 300, will fly 60 guests in fully reclining business class seats to coveted destinations to which major airlines do not offer nonstop service. Each approximately 28-day itinerary will visit 10-12 remote and/ or sought-after locales, with accommodations at some of the world’s finest hotels and resorts; cuisine prepared by celebrity chefs inspired by the destination; and world-class cultural entertainment.

Ocean Vessels: “Crystal Exclusive Class” – Late 2018 Certainly not resting on any laurels, Crystal returns its focus to the seas, with three new “Crystal Exclusive Class,” cruise ships with the first expected for delivery in late 2018. Genting Hong Kong has signed a letter of intent with Lloyd Werft in Germany to build the polar ice class vessels.

Lloyd Werft is widely recognised in the shipping industry for its excellent reputation and success with world-class new builds, building and lengthening six Norwegian Cruise Line vessels, including the Pride of America, the only ocean cruise ship flying the American Flag, sailing year round in Hawaii.

With the introduction of these new vessels, Crystal will be the first-ever cruise line to deliver expedition-capable ships with all the signature features and amenities of a luxury ship or private yacht. The all-suite, all balcony ship will accommodate 1,000 guests, similar to the capacity on Crystal Symphony (922) and Crystal Serenity (1,070), and weigh more than 100,000 GRT. Additionally, for the first time ever, guests will have the opportunity to call a Crystal ship “home,” with innovative Crystal Residences. Situated on the top deck of the new ships will be 48 unique homes, boasting their own private restaurant, reception and facilities, and much higher ceilings (9 feet) than residences on any other cruise ships or yachts; and equal to most land apartments. Residences will start at 600 square feet and go to more than 4,000 square feet of interior living area, which will be the largest on the high seas.

Other revolutionary features being introduced on Crystal’s new vessels are: a whopping 400 square feet minimum for the guestroom suites - nearly doubling the size on other luxury vessels; increased ceiling heights by one f00t to 8 feet in all suites and decks; raising the bar on personal attention and service with 1,000 crew members on the ships to provide an unheard of one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio; an abundance of mouth-watering options centred on the art and expertise of Michelin-starred and celebrity chefs; and intrepid yacht-like amenities including submarines, helicopters and zodiacs.

The plans fulfil Rodriguez’s growing vision for the company since taking the helm in 2013, while also solidifying Crystal’s unrivalled reputation for innovating new facets of luxury travel.

Welcome to the Orkney Islands

When the port of Kirkwall officially opened its newly extended berth at Hatston in 2013 with a length overall of 385 meters, it’s impact on Kirkwall’s cruise business was unknown. Two years later, the berth is now delivering 3.5 million gross tonnes of cruise shipping and 80 thousand passengers annually. It has been a major success story for Orkney.

In 2016, with 90 port calls already booked, Kirkwall will celebrate the arrival of its 1500th port call and 750,000th passenger since official records began in 1992.

This season has seen the arrival of prestigious first time callers such as the Royal Princess, MSC Splendida, Disney Magic, Magellan and Aidaluna.

Contact Us Michael Morrison Michael.Morrison@orkney.gov.uk Telephone: +44(0)1856 885219

www.orkneyharbours.com

Silversea Introduces Free Wi-Fi For All Guests

New Video Series From Carnival Offers Behind The Scenes Look At Construction of Carnival Vista

Carnival Cruise Lines is taking a fun and engaging approach to showcase the construction of its newest “Fun Ship,” Carnival Vista, creating a series of monthly behind-thescenes videos shot at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, where the 3,954-passenger vessel is being built.

Silversea has launched the most comprehensive free Wi-Fi package ever offered by an ultra-luxury cruise line.

Available on voyages departing from January 2016 onwards, Wi-Fi will be available to all guests in all suites and public spaces, on all cruises including expedition cruises.

“For well over 20 years, Silversea has set the course in defining the all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise experience. By offering truly free Wi-Fi to all guests regardless of the suite reserved, Silversea is once again setting the standard for all-inclusive luxury,” Steve Odell, Silversea President EMEA and Asia Pacific. “Because we know how important it is for travellers to stay informed and connected, we’re delighted to enhance the all-inclusive Silversea experience with this new benefit.”

Silversea’s offer is unprecedented in the industry. Every guest will enjoy at least one hour of free Wi-Fi per day. Unlimited free Wi-Fi will be available to guests sailing in the Owner’s, Grand, Royal, Silver and Medallion suites on the line’s ocean ships, and as follows for expedition ships: Silver Explorer: Owner’s, Grand, Silver, Medallion, and Expedition suites Silver Galapagos: Silver, Deluxe Veranda, and Veranda suites Silver Discoverer: Medallion, Veranda, and Vista suites Silversea’s all-suite ships feature stem-to-stern Wi-Fi, in port and at sea, allowing guests to conveniently access the Internet on their personal devices in public spaces and suites, or on the computers in the Internet cafés available on all ocean ships and the Silver Explorer.

The 2016 free Wi-Fi service will join an array of included amenities that already features: open-seating gourmet dining; butler service for all suites; Champagne, select wines, premium spirits, speciality coffees, bottled water, juices and soft drinks; in-suite bar stocked with guests’ preferences; in-suite dining and 24-hour dining service (from a formal dinner ordered from The Restaurant menu and served in-suite, to lighter fare served in attended lounges); lecture and enrichment programmes; roundtrip transportation into town (in most ports); and onboard gratuities (exclusive of spa treatments).

Host Peter Gonzalez – who has travelled to 30 countries to create videos showcasing the “Fun Ship” fleet – takes viewers on his 5,132-mile journey from Miami to Monfalcone, Italy, to document Carnival Vista’s 26-month construction.

In the first video, “Birds’ Eye View,” Gonzalez dons a hard hat and ventures high above the Fincantieri shipyard to demonstrate the incredible size of Carnival Vista while highlighting the painstaking process for cutting and assembling the 150,000 tons of steel needed to build the massive 1,055-foot-long vessel – the largest in the Carnival fleet.

Gonzalez visits Fincantieri’s fabrication bunker where he follows workers as they cut, with expert precision, six tonne steel panels that are conjoined into 1,000 tonne sections positioned via crane to form Carnival Vista’s superstructure.

Once the exterior build-out is completed, workers will begin installing innovations such as SkyRide, a one-of-a-kind suspended cycling experience, a new 455-foot-long tube slide called Kaleid-o-Slide, and more.

Future segments in the series include preparations, both on board and ashore, to create the line’s first on-board brewery, a below-deck look at the ship’s technical spaces, and the logistics of installing the three-deck-high IMAX Theatre, a cruise ship first.

Carnival Vista is scheduled to enter service from Europe May 1, 2016, then reposition to New York for a series of voyages in November 2016 followed by the launch of year-round Caribbean service from Miami later that month.

Cruise fans, those new to cruising and travel partners can get a preview of Carnival Vista at http://www.carnival.co.uk/cruiseships/carnival-vista.aspx and follow @CarnivalVista for regular Twitter updates.

Cunard flagship Queen Mary 2 to undergo major refurbishment in early summer 2016, befitting the world’s most iconic ocean liner As Cunard marked its illustrious 175 year history with yesterday’s celebratory departure from New York of its flagship, Queen Mary 2, it is proud to announce the next chapter of innovation and investment, introducing new designs and guest experiences to the world’s most iconic ocean liner.

From the company’s inception, Cunard has been at the forefront of ocean travel. Through establishing the first scheduled transatlantic crossings, to the first electric lightbulbs and ensuite bathrooms at sea, to the grandeur of the floating palaces of Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth, to the launch of the current fleet.

which will be revealed over the coming months, building on the flagship’s strengths as the epitome of luxury on a grand scale.

Angus Struthers, Cunard Director, said: ““Queen Mary 2 is an icon in the world of luxury ocean travel. A ship that turns heads everywhere she goes, she is the pride of the Cunard fleet and we are committed to ensuring her reputation grows ever stronger.”

“These enhancements are just the beginning of an exciting revitalisation for Queen Mary 2, and we look forward to making more announcements about this impressive refit in the coming months,” Struthers added.

The newly announced additional accommodation goes on sale on 15 July 2015 for Queen Mary 2 Summer sailings from late June 2016.

To ensure the tradition continues, Queen Mary 2 will undergo an extensive 25 day dry dock refurbishment at the Blohm+Voss Shipyard in Hamburg, Germany next summer, 27 May- 21 June 2016.

This major refurbishment will further refine and refresh guest interior spaces and launch new exciting innovations designed to exceed guest expectations. Three of the key developments are announced today, reflecting the changing needs of Cunard’s guests: • Research shows that increasing numbers of guests are seeking to holiday in multi-generational groups – grandparents, parents and children. Often this necessitates one member of the family travelling as an individual. To support this, and for those simply travelling alone, for the first time, 15 Single Staterooms will be introduced onto Queen Mary 2 during the refit.

• With further growing trends for those booking Balcony staterooms and those wishing to have more flexibility in their dining arrangements, 30 additional Britannia Club Balcony Staterooms will be created on board. Guests travelling in these staterooms will be able to dine at a time of their own choosing in the dedicated Britannia Club restaurant, which will be expanded.

• Just as families are holidaying across the generations, so pets are increasingly seen as integral to the family group. Queen Mary 2 is already the only cruise liner in the world to offer dedicated kennels and currently carries up to 12 dogs and cats on each Transatlantic crossing. To meet strong demand - these kennel places frequently sell out - a further ten kennels will be created for four legged travellers.

With an eye to the detail that differentiates Cunard, both a lamp post and a fire hydrant will be installed on the area of deck reserved for dog walking as part of the kennels development, so that dogs from either side of the pond will feel equally at home.

This was previously a feature of the kennels on Cunard’s former flagship, QE2, and was first introduced on board Queen Mary at the suggestion of The Duke of Windsor.

Extensive research has informed a series of further developments

Cunard at the New York Stock Exchange David Dingle, Chairman of Carnival UK, brings down the gavel and Captain Kevin Oprey, Master of Queen Mary 2, rings the closing bell Senior Cunard, Carnival UK and Carnival Corporation personnel attended the closing of the New York Stock Exchange on 14 July as a testament to the ongoing achievements of Cunard and to mark Cunard’s 175th anniversary as the line’s flagship, Queen Mary 2 visited the city.

David Dingle, Chairman of Carnival UK, brought down the gavel and Captain Kevin Oprey, Master of Queen Mary 2, rang the closing bell.

David Dingle said: ‘In Cunard’s 175th anniversary year, it’s a pleasure to close the New York Stock Exchange in the city which has become synonymous with Cunard’s transatlantic story.

Our long partnership with New York is one that we continue to value and we are pleased to be contributing to the continuing economic success of the city’s cruise business.’

Photo includes Arnold Donald, President and CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc (3rd from right), Micky Arison, Chairman of Carnival Corporation & plc (4th from left), David Noyes, CEO of Carnival UK (2nd from right), David Dingle, Chairman of Carnival UK (centre left with gavel) and Captain Kevin Oprey, Master of Queen Mary 2 (centre right).

AmaWaterways waives single supplement on all sailings On all luxury river cruises in Europe, Asia and Africa AmaWaterways (www.AmaWaterways.co.uk), the world’s leading river cruise line, has allocated cabins on every future sailing in Europe, Africa and Asia for solo travellers to experience the luxury of a river cruise without the penalty of paying a supplement for a double cabin.

UK Sales Manager Natalie O’Mahoney said “An AmaWaterways cruise is an excellent way for solo guests to travel. The ships’ varied daily itineraries ensures a once-only check-in, yet guests can explore a different destination every day, with complimentary guided tours and excursions included in the price. There’s no need to carry luggage around because optional transfers from airport to ship can be arranged. Free seating in the restaurants and an amiable atmosphere on board, with a maximum of 164 guests, ensures ample opportunity to make new friends, have good company during meals, and not have to navigate unfamiliar destinations alone; unless the guest should want to of course”.”

Kristin Karst, Executive Vice President and Co-Owner of AmaWaterways said “We are thrilled to extend this special perk to solo travellers, inviting them to enjoy the best of our line’s ultra-comfortable accommodations without any additional costs or sacrifice. We continue to see high demand in this fast-growing market and are delighted to introduce even more options for our solo travellers.”

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

Norwegian Cruise Line introduces à la carte speciality dining Norwegian Cruise Line announced today the introduction of à la carte speciality dining at the line’s signature speciality restaurants, providing guests the freedom to savour an array of tastes and gourmet dishes and the flexibility to choose how many courses they wish to enjoy during their meal.

Guests will experience the ultimate in Freestyle Cruising beginning this October on the all-new Norwegian Escape, where they can choose to dine at any of 11 complimentary dining options or experience new flavours at Norwegian’s signature speciality restaurants La Cucina, Le Bistro, Cagney’s Steakhouse and the new Bayamo by James Beard Award winning chef Jose Garces, on an à la carte basis.

Norwegian’s signature speciality restaurants on Norwegian Escape will feature enhanced menus that include favourite dishes and new tastes alike, offering guests the freedom to select how many courses they’d like to enjoy during their dinner, with per-item pricing.

Whether guests wish to have a light meal of a favourite appetizer and soup or salad, or indulge in a multi-course dinner featuring Maine lobster, with Norwegian’s new à la carte options, guests will now have the opportunity to create their desired dining experience, just as they would at any land-based restaurant.

At Cagney’s Steakhouse, starters on the new à la carte menu range from $4.99 to $7.95 and main courses from $17.99 to $29.99, featuring Certified Angus Beef® brand steaks, the world’s leading Angus brand and consumers’ top choice for premium beef. At Le Bistro, guests will find delicious new main courses in addition to traditional French favourites, including Bouillabaisse, Pan-Seared Jumbo Bay Scallops and Veal Medallions with Sauce Morel, starting at $15.99. And guests looking to find a taste of “la dolce vita” will be transported to the Mediterranean when they choose from an

expanded menu at La Cucina, featuring antipasti, pasta, risotto and traditional secondi courses starting at $12.99 including Osso Buco alla Milanese, Free-Range Chicken with Prosciutto or PanSeared Sea Bass Filet.

Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki will remain at a cover charge of $19.95 and $29.95 respectively, as will entertainment dining including Wine Lovers The Musical and For The Record™: The Brat Pack.

Guests who purchase a Norwegian Speciality Dining Package have the freedom to indulge as they wish, as Speciality Dining Packages will allow guests to enjoy La Cucina, Le Bistro and Cagney’s Steakhouse at no additional charge. Guests with a Speciality Dining Package can dine in Bayamo by Jose Garces for an additional fee of $15.

In addition to Norwegian Escape’s speciality restaurants, Ocean Blue on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway will also begin offering à la carte options on 3 October 2015, and the new à la carte dining will be available fleetwide beginning 1 January 2016.

Other entertainment dining across the fleet, including Cirque Dreams & Dinner and The Illusionarium, will remain at a cover charge. For those guests who wish to reserve their dining times ahead of time, they can continue to do so via MyNCL; there is no charge to make a reservation and guests will have any à la carte selections added to their on-board account at the time of dining.

Silversea Cruises Announces New Ship The Silver Muse, Arriving Spring 2017 Silversea Cruises is happy to announce its new flagship, the Silver Muse, to be delivered in the spring of 2017. The new ultraluxury ship is being built by Fincantieri and at 40,000 grt accommodates 596 guests, representing an exciting evolution of the Silver Spirit that will redefine ultra-luxury ocean travel, enhancing the small-ship intimacy and spacious all-suite accommodations that are the hallmarks of the Silversea experience.

The addition of the Silver Muse will expand Silversea’s fleet to nine ships, and will once again significantly raise the bar in the ultraluxury cruise market with a wealth of enhancements to the on board experience, while satisfying the uncompromising requirements for comfort, service, and quality of the world’s most discerning travellers.

“We have always had a special relationship with Fincantieri, since my father ordered from them the first cruise vessels for Sitmar Cruises in 1987,” said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, chairman of Silversea. “Both companies have a clear understanding of what today’s affluent traveller seeks, and each approaches the market with originality, creativity, and quality. The management team led by Giuseppe Bono has been exceptional in managing Silversea’s project.”

According to Enzo Visone, Silversea’s CEO, “With enhanced design specifications and enriched content, the Silver Muse will continue to build on the sophistication, innovative style and ground-breaking concepts for which Silversea ships are renowned. This ship contributes to our ambitious growth plans that will ensure our continued leadership in ultra-luxury cruising.”

“We’re very pleased to once again partner with Silversea,” commented Giuseppe Bono, CEO of Fincantieri. “Silversea has shown remarkable dynamism and ability to achieve important results in this market. This project offers us the opportunity to develop creative solutions and set new standards for shipbuilding in the ultra-luxury segment, a segment in which Fincantieri has won every new order on the market in the past year.”

Additional details and specifications on the new ship will be announced in the near future.

Uniworld Expands In-Suite Butler Service Throughout Award-Winning European Fleet

London, July 2015-Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection (www.uniworldrivercruises.co.uk) is expanding the in-suite butler service across its entire award-winning European fleet for 2016. Having trained at the renowned Ivor Spencer Butler School, Uniworld’s in-suite butlers provide personalised service of the highest standard to each guest staying in a suite.

This service is currently offered on the River Beatrice, S.S. Antoinette, S.S. Catherine and S.S. Maria Theresa but will be extended to all Uniworld owned European ships in 2016.

Kathryn Beadle, Managing Director of Uniword UK, commented “Uniworld already has the highest staff-to-guest ratio of all river cruise lines and increasing the number of highly trained professionals on-board our ships ensures that second-to-none service. We are really pleased to announce that the in-suite butler service will now be a consistent feature across all our European itineraries, providing guests with a truly luxurious and personalised experience.”

Each suite is assigned a private butler on arrival who will provide services such as unpacking and packing on arrival and departure days, laundry service, in-room breakfast and service during evening meal times and the fulfilment of other special requests which guests may have during their time on-board. Uniworld suites have all been uniquely decorated and boast additional amenities including Nespresso coffee machines, shoe shine service, Hermes bath products and a bottle of wine upon arrival.

For more details visit uniworldcruises.co.uk call 0808 168 9110 or connect with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises at facebook.com/ uniworldcruises or twitter.com/Uniworld_UK

Carnival Dramatically Enhances Shore Excursion Offering

Cunard Celebrates 175th Anniversary in Boston Cunard celebrated 175 years of history, tradition, and industrial achievement in Boston, Massachusetts on Sunday 12 July starting with a special invitation to Captain Kevin Oprey, Master of Queen Mary 2, to throw the ceremonial first pitch at the Boston Red Sox vs New York Yankees game at Fenway Park.

The day-long celebrations marked Cunard’s 175th anniversary Transatlantic Crossing, commemorating the creation of the first scheduled mail and passenger service across the Atlantic.

In July 1840, the company’s first flagship, Britannia, set sail from Liverpool for Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Boston, with Samuel Cunard and his daughter on board. The Britannia’s crossing of the Atlantic in a fortnight marked a revolution in communication in an era when mail and newspapers could take six weeks to reach their destination.

The cutting-edge paddle steamer, capable of speeding at nine knots, carried 115 passengers, 89 crew, 600 tons of coal, the Atlantic mail, chickens, and one cow to provide fresh milk. One hundred and seventy five years later, a Transatlantic Crossing on the Queen Mary 2 offers the ultimate in luxury.

As Captain Kevin Oprey took to the pitch at Fenway Park to an audience of nearly 40,000, he successfully threw the first ball to mark the start of the American Baseball game.

Captain Oprey afterwards commented: “It was great, absolutely wonderful. I just wish I had thrown the ball harder, that’s all!”

Celebrations and commemorations continued throughout the day with Captain Kevin Oprey, senior Cunard personnel and local Boston officials presenting Cunard’s Servia, an historic ship model, in a special ceremony to launch the newly renovated Cunard Building at 120 State Street.

The 11-foot long model, built in 1881, was transported over to the United States aboard Queen Mary 2 from the Science Museum in London and was placed in the front entrance of the former North American Cunard headquarters for passers-by to view.

Angus Struthers, Cunard Director, said: “Boston will always have a special significance for Cunard and we are grateful for our historic partnership. It is a tribute to Samuel Cunard that his legacy in Boston lives on in such a dynamic manner.”

Evening crowds were treated to a grand fireworks display at 9:45 pm as Queen Mary 2 sailed from Boston for New York City on the final leg of her 175th Anniversary crossing.

Spectators along the waterfront enjoyed prime viewing, although guests onboard Queen Mary 2 had the best seats for the impressive display.

For more information about Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth and to book a voyage, visit www.cunard.com or call 0843 374 2224.

Carnival Cruise Lines has dramatically expanded its shore excursion offerings, adding exclusive new on-shore experiences and customised private tours, as well as new family-friendly enhancements, including fun complimentary beachside activities, value pricing and free tours in select ports for children under the age of five.

The new options build upon Carnival’s leadership position in the shore excursion arena, with nearly 1,200 unique on-shore experiences offered by the line in more than 50 ports of call throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Bahamas, Canada, New England, and Central and South America.

Erika Tache, Carnival’s director of product development said: “Shore excursions are an important part of the Carnival holiday experience and we’ve gone to great lengths to provide our guests with even more choices and offer families unique value-added services and pricing options that are exclusive to Carnival.”

Exclusive ‘Only-On-Carnival’ Tour Options in Select Caribbean Ports For those who want to create unforgettable holiday memories in their own tropical paradise, Carnival now offers exclusive tours that not only include facilities like access to luxurious private villas but also unique enrichment activities that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in local culture and cuisine.

New Family-Friendly Services and Tours Carnival is offering new “family friendly” shore excursion options in ports throughout the Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico, with tours offered at multiple price points to provide parents with the ultimate flexibility, value and convenience. Children age five and under receive complimentary beach excursions with their parents’ paid tour.

Well-staffed beachside excursions provide families with extra assistance with services such as pram storage as well as hosted fun activities like beachside games, and arts and crafts, along with play areas and water slides and toys, all available on a complimentary basis. Offered in all of Carnival’s Caribbean ports, the new activities are designed to keep kids entertained while offering parents some much-needed “we” time.

Unique Valued-Added Options For guests seeking a more authentic on-shore experience, there are exclusive private tours – operated via custom coaches, sailboats, yachts, and even helicopters – that take guests on off-the-beaten-path excursions tailored to the guests’ specific preferences. These excursions showcase non-traditional sightseeing sites typically not available to other guests, all under the guidance of an experienced local who provides an “up close and personal” view of the destination.

And with Carnival’s new on-board lounge tour dispatch system, tour operators come on board to meet shore excursion participants and tours depart from a ship-side venue versus the previous method of tour operators assembling large groups of guests on the pier, thus providing a more streamlined, organised and speedy departure. Carnival is the only cruise operator in the Caribbean to have local tour operators involved with this enhanced service option.

Industry-Leading Programmes and Offerings All of these new offerings complement Carnival’s industry-leading programmes such as the Shore Excursion Best Price Guarantee. The only one of its kind in the cruise industry, the programme provides a 110 percent refund in the form of a ship-board credit should guests find a better price on a similar tour, providing much-needed peace of mind knowing that they’re getting the best price.

Each of Carnival’s 24 ships also offers a dedicated shore excursion desk with highly trained and experienced staff members who can recommend particular tours and answer any questions guests may have. Shore excursion personnel also personally experience the wide selection of shore-side options in every port and obtain feedback from guests to strive for continuous improvement in the line’s shore excursion choices.

Carnival has also revamped the shore excursion section of its website to include a greater variety of photos and videos, enhanced navigation and on-line reservations for both desktop and mobile devices, as well as guest-written reviews of the various options ashore.

The future of Green Cruising to be discussed at Seatrade Europe

The UK’s largest cruise ship Britannia calls into the River Forth with a welcome from her royal namesake The UK’s largest and newest cruise liner, P&O Cruises’ Britannia, called into the River Forth today (8 July) with around 5,000 people on board as part of her first British Isles tour.

The brand new 141,000 tonne luxury liner, which was launched by Her Majesty the Queen earlier this year, was warmly welcomed into the river by tugs displaying their water cannons in the time honoured way as she made her way to Forth Ports’ new anchorage point off Newhaven, near Leith, Edinburgh.

At 12 noon, the P&O Cruises Britannia took part in a “ships’ horn” welcome which could be heard across the city with the cruise liner and other ships in Newhaven and the Port of Leith sounding their horns to mark the occasion.

In a ceremony on board the new Britannia, Captain Paul Brown was presented with a gift from the City of Edinburgh by the Deputy Lord Provost Steve Cardownie who welcomed the ship and her passengers to Scotland’s beautiful capital city.

The Captain also welcomed guests from the ship’s royal namesake, The Royal Yacht Britannia, the Queen’s former floating palace, which is now a five star visitor attraction, permanently berthed in Leith, for a tour of the P&O Cruises Britannia ship and for the Royal Yacht’s Chairman - Rear Admiral Neil Rankin - to see for himself the bridge of the new £473m liner. The Royal Yacht Britannia returned this welcome by inviting Captain Paul Brown aboard the Royal Yacht.

Commenting on Britannia’s inaugural visit, Charles Hammond, Chief Executive of Forth Ports, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the magnificentBritannia to Newhaven today. Forth Ports’ cruise business is an important economic generator for Scotland with the draw of Edinburgh being very attractive for cruise operators around the world. We have opened this anchorage this season as a permanent option for larger liners to call into the Forth and we look forward to welcoming more vessels this year.”

Captain Paul Brown from P&O Cruises Britanniasaid: “I am delighted to bring Britannia into Newhaven and personally very excited to be in this historic port. To see The Royal Yacht Britannia is a highlight for me and I know all our passengers are looking forward to seeing the stunning city and landscape along the Forth.”

The Royal Yacht Britannia’s Chief Executive, Bob Downie, said: “It is great to see this new anchorage welcoming such a high profile cruise ship to Edinburgh, and we look forward to seeing many more similar visits in the coming years.”

Edinburgh’s Deputy Lord Provost, Steve Cardownie, said: “The two Britannias - one with 5,000 passengers and crew on board and the other with 300,000 visitors a year in Edinburgh and indeed the UK’s number one attraction* - is great news for the capital’s ports. The new deep water anchorage that has been opened at the site is a positive step towards further reinvigorating the Newhaven and Leith area, and the city will certainly benefit from the increase in visitor footfall. It really is a spectacle to see them so close in Edinburgh’s waters.”

P&O Cruises Britannia’s maiden itinerary, which many are describing as a lap of honour, is a celebration of all things British, from its bold Union Flag livery, contemporary elegant design and cutting edge art collection to the best chefs this country has to offer, the range of British cheeses and its Great British Beer and Gin menus. During its day-long call at Newhaven, many passengers disembarked using a tender operation managed by Forth Ports, to enjoy bus tours calling at the iconic Falkirk Wheel, the Kelpies, the golfing attractions of St Andrews and the World Heritage Site of Edinburgh while others strolled along from Newhaven Harbour to nearby Leith to visit The Royal Yacht Britannia.

Forth Ports’ new cruise ship anchorage operation off Newhaven Harbour was opened this season to accommodate larger liners like Britannia who have thousands of passengers on board looking for direct access to Edinburgh. The anchorage point will see a further three calls during the 2015 season.

With clean seas and destinations vital to securing the future of cruise, the industry has undertaken significant investments in order to ensure the next generation of cruise ships are even more environmentally friendly.

At Seatrade Europe, taking place at Hamburg Messe, there will be a session led by the Global Maritime Environmental Congress (gmec) on Thursday 10 September 2015 from 14301600 hrs, discussing the legal framework for cruise operators in the EU. Topics will include the implementation of the new sulfur limits in the North and Baltic Sea as well as alternative energy sources for cruise ships.

Multi-stage waste gas purification systems, designed to reduce nitrogen oxides, soot particulates and sulfur oxides are increasingly featuring on cruise ships and pushing the envelope even further, newbuilds using LNG in dual-powered hybrid engines to power both in port and on the open sea eliminating emissions of soot particles and sulfur oxides, have recently been contracted.

As cruise vessels themselves spend around 40% of their time in ports, CLIA and its member cruise lines are playing a proactive role to ensure that onshore power supply facilities in ports are extended. Hamburg, the host city of Seatrade Europe, is building an onshore power supply facility for cruise ships at the Altona terminal.

“The cruise industry is a pioneer for environmental protection. In recent years, the industry has invested in research into and implementing new initiatives into reducing the volume of garbage, waste water and air emissions.

Not only do we comply with legal requirements, but we often go beyond, for instance in the field of purifying waste water,” says Raphael von Heermann, secretary general for the CLIA Europe.

Ben Ainslie Racing – another exciting benefit of visiting Portsmouth International Port Rupert Taylor is the Harbour Master at Portsmouth International Port, and has play a key role in the development of the new Ben Ainslie Racing (BAR) building on the Camber.

He told Portsmouth Quarterly Business News that it’s incredible to think construction of such an impressive building and complex has taken just 12 months.

Rupert says,”During that time we have had to work together to overcome the difficulties of building something so quickly, whilst keeping Port operations running as normally as possible.”

The Camber falls under the control of Portsmouth International Port, and it has been important for Rupert and his team to manage the needs of the entire community. That means balancing the requirements of the BAR Team, fishing crews, leisure and industrial users, Wightlink Ferries and, of course, local residents.

Rupert explains it’s been something of a logistical challenge. He says, “With so much activity going on in such a relatively small footprint, one of the biggest challenges to overcome has been craning the AC45 Catamarans into and out of the dock whilst not disrupting the busy Wightlink car ferry service - an impressive sight for all of those who were watching.” He’s obviously delighted that Portsmouth City Council gave BAR the go ahead to bring their team HQ to the Camber. Now that the building is all but finished, Rupert believes the fun really starts. As the man responsible for attracting cruise ships to the Waterfront City he’s excited about what the future will bring.

“It’s another landmark for passengers departing and arriving on ferries and cruise ships to see, and the BAR Visitor Centre will soon become a major attraction. Just imagine - someone arriving on a cruise ship at Portsmouth International Port in the morning can witness centuries of maritime development. From the Mary Rose, Victory and Warrior in the Historic Dockyard, they can stroll through Gunwharf Quays and Old Portsmouth to experience the cutting edge of 21st century racing yacht design on the Camber. That’s quite a day out, and a great sales pitch for us to put to cruise ship operators.”

As the UK’s second busiest RoRo port, and the destination for 65% of all bananas eaten in the country, life is never quiet at Portsmouth International Port. Rupert points out that Portsmouth has really found its feet as a major tourist destination and at the same time the Port has also seen growth in the cruise ship business, gaining a reputation as a great destination for smaller explorer vessels.

Reflecting on recent developments, Rupert says, “The building blocks are all in place for tourism to become an even bigger part of the local economy and the addition of the BAR Visitor Centre as another high quality attraction can only be good news. The America’s Cup Challenge Events will be a huge global advert for our wonderful city, really putting Portsmouth on the international map. Now we need Sir Ben and the team to go out and win the Cup back for Britain. Helping to host the World’s biggest sailing event in Portsmouth is just the kind of challenge I would relish!”

Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour Roam the streets of old downtown Seattle on a whole new level: underground. What once where bustling main roads and storefronts are now hidden away and Bill Speidel’s underground tour gives visitors a chance to explore these hidden passages.

Bill Speidel founded the Underground Tour in 1965 and he is still remembered today as one old-time Seattle most striking characters. He reminds visitors of Seattle before Microsoft and Starbucks.

Starting in Doc Maynard’s Public House, a restored 1890’s saloon, the tour will take visitors through historic Pioneer Square to three separate underground sections. The experience ends in the underground gift shop, Rogues Gallery.

The tours take place daily from 9am to 7 pm and last 75 minutes. Tours start every hour, with extra tours every half hour from the end of May to September. Tours are $19 for adults and $9 for Children (7-12 years old).

More information on: http://www.undergroundtour.com/index.html

Britain’s Biggest Cruise Ship Makes Maiden Calls Around The British Isles This round Britain cruise, which many are describing as a lap of honour, is particularly special as the ship is a celebration of all things British - from its bold Union Flag livery, contemporary elegant design and cutting edge art collection to the best chefs this country has to offer, the range of British cheeses and its Great British Beer and Gin menus.

expert Olly Smith and cheese expert Charlie Turnbull. In the new Cookery Club, a 24 person state-of-the-art cookery school, these celebrity chefs and experts will demonstrate their culinary skills, and will be joined throughout this year by other famous chefs including Mary Berry CBE, Pierre Koffmann, Paul Rankin and Commendatore Antonio Carluccio OBE.

The biggest ship designed exclusively for Britain, Britannia is P&O Cruises’ latest “modern classic”, heralding a new era of holiday choice. Chief amongst her features are her restaurants, bars and cafes, with menus and culinary experiences created by P&O Cruises’ ‘Food Heroes’; James Martin, Marco Pierre White, Atul Kochhar, Eric Lanlard, wine

Britannia’s most outstanding design statement is reserved for her three-deck high atrium with illuminating Star Burst sculpture.

She also provides the largest British spa at sea, a state-of-the-art theatre with LED wall, four pools, gym and a multi million pound art collection including a specially commissioned representation of the “Spirit of Modern Britain” from artist Johnny Bull.

CruiseBritain announces new Chair

and I feel absolutely confident that Angie’s passion for the industry will enable our organisation to continue to flourish.

The cruise industry has great potential for Britain’s ports, destinations and services; each cruise ship call can bring significant revenue into the port and surrounding area and we are working with both VisitBritain and VisitEngland to increase Britain’s share of the Northern European day call market.’

CruiseBritain, the destination association of British ports and services, has today announced the appointment of a new Chair.

Angie Redhead, Cruise & Operations Manager at Liverpool Cruise Terminal, has taken office for a three-year tenure.

Outgoing Chair, Daren Taylor, said, ‘CruiseBritain is a thriving organisation that works to raise the profile of Britain as a cruise destination. I’ve enjoyed my time at the helm and wish Angie every success; her appointment has the unanimous support of CruiseBritain’s Steering Group. Angie has been enormously successful in her work for Liverpool itself and is also a tireless and positive ambassador for Britain. Her experience in the cruise industry, plus the wider travel business, will be of great value to CruiseBritain

‘CruiseBritain is also now working closely with the European Sea Ports Association newly formed Cruise & Ferry Ports Network.’ added Taylor. ‘This is a great opportunity to work towards better Europe-wide co-operation. The Network aims to achieve a clear voice with European institutions, develop a useful Code of Practice and engage in constructive dialogue with other industry stakeholders such as the cruise lines.’

Angie Redhead commented, ‘I am delighted to take on the position of Chair of Cruise Britain at a time when the UK cruise offer is stronger than ever and our potential is at its greatest. UK ports have always worked collaboratively together to enhance our offer to both the passenger and the cruise line and I am really looking forward to the challenge and opportunity during my time as Chair.’

Opening of Sales for MSC Cruises’ First Next Generation Ship, MSC Meraviglia MSC Cruises S.A., the world’s largest privately-owned cruise line and market leader in the Mediterranean, announced today that cabins for the inaugural summer 2017 cruises of MSC Meraviglia, its first next generation of ship, are now on sale.

Sales of cruises on this ground-breaking, 315m-long ship will initially be open exclusively to MSC Club members, with the ship going on general sale on July 5.

Gianni Onorato, Chief Executive Officer of MSC Cruises, said: “The opening of sales marks yet another decisive milestone in MSC Cruises’ expansion plan, especially as MSC Meraviglia’s inaugural cruise will take place two years from now. MSC Meraviglia is a true maritime marvel and will be one of the greenest and safest ships in the industry, as well as one of the most technologically advanced.

We are thrilled to offer MSC Club members the first pick to book their distinctive holiday experience so far in advance and the demand we are seeing for our product translates the eagerness with which MSC Meraviglia is awaited.”

MSC Meraviglia will be the biggest and most innovative cruise ship ever built by a global European-based cruise line. The cutting-edge 5,700-guest, 167,600-GRT ship — due to be delivered in May 2017—will spend its first summer sailing the western Mediterranean and will be the first to have three homeports: Genoa, Marseille and Barcelona. Ideally designed for all seasons, MSC Meraviglia will be able to call at any cruise port in the world, allowing guests from more than 150 countries to explore some of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

On board, guests will be able to access a whole range of facilities via the latest Near Field Communication technology. By using NFC wristbands, cruise cards or their smartphone, guests will be able to make payments, book spa treatments and speciality restaurants, access their cabin and safe, and even geo-locate their children.

The sales announcement came as MSC Cruises celebrated another milestone event – the start of building of its new ‘Seaside-class’ ship MSC Seaside, which was marked with an official steel-cutting ceremony at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.

The ship is set to debut in November 2017, and will be christened the following month in Miami – the first time an MSC Cruises’ ship is christened in the USA. In addition, MSC Cruises’ Miami-based cruise operations – with the addition of MSC Divina in Autumn 2015 - will benefit from a newly renovated dedicated berth and terminal at PortMiami, further signifying the Company’s strong ambitions in the North American market.

“Today, we have witnessed the beginning of the work on an extraordinary ship, MSC Seaside. It is a ship that revolutionises industry standards, with a bold design that delivers unparalleled experiences in entertainment, leisure and dining while being a benchmark in eco-friendliness and safety. It is testament to MSC Cruises’ constant focus on excellence and innovation,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman.

Large, spacious and designed for the utmost comfort, MSC Seaside will benefit from leading-edge technology while boasting a 360° seafront promenade. In addition, the ship will be characterised by the most interactive and originally-designed aqua park at sea with five water slides and attractions for all ages.

The ship will feature cluster cabins for families and groups and luxury suites with private whirlpool baths. MSC Seaside will also boast an enhanced MSC Yacht Club with private sun-deck, lounge and pool. The public spaces of the ship will feature breathtaking views with a two-deck glass-walled atrium, panoramic exterior lifts and a wide choice of indoor/outdoor dining and bars and beautifully designed entertainment spaces.

Lonely Planet: Akureyri BEST Place in Europe!

The tiny city of Akureyri in North Iceland tops Lonely Planet’s list of 10 Best Places to visit in Europe. According to Lonely Planet: Akureyri tops the list as the best place in Europe thanks to its easygoing feel combined with an urban buzz, while also providing a great base for exploring North Iceland’s green pastures, fishing villages and waterfalls, not to mention glimpsing awe-inspiring glaciers, volcanoes and lava fields.

With only 18,000 residents, Akureyri offers big-city surprises, complete with gourmet dining, galleries, outdoor cafes and a splendid geothermal swimming pool. Seasonal delights include golf under the midnight sun and magnificent ski slopes. Nearby Lake Mývatn is a geological wonderland of volcanic craters, mudpots & lava fields.

Trimline completes stellar refurbishments for Star Breeze and Star Legend Southampton-based marine refurbishment specialists Trimline have completed comprehensive refitting of Windstar Cruises’ Star Breeze and Star Legend at San Giorgio del Porto, Genova.

These refurbishments mean that Trimline have now transformed all six of Windstar’s ships. Star Breeze and Star Legend now feature striking new AmphorA restaurants, setting the highest standards in dining with new furniture, décor, curtains and lights. Meanwhile, passengers who prefer to dine al fresco can enjoy the Veranda at the stern, which becomes Candles Restaurant by night, complete with a protected outdoor seating area in place of the old swimming pool. This welcome new feature has an impressive seven metre wide archway encompassing an artificial living wall, as well as new seating.

Similarly, the Compass Rose lounges and bars have been completely revitalised, with new Amtico flooring and elegant contemporary decoration creating the perfect spots to relax and unwind. Alternatively, passengers can enjoy the StarBar, with their new teak decking and reupholstered seating.

Film buffs will be sure to take in the Star Screening Rooms: intimate, comfortable cinemas newly converted from two rooms. Similarly, the new flooring, decoration and plantation shutters make the Gyms ideal places to work out, whilst the upgraded Star Signature Shops are the venue for a little retail therapy.

“We are pleased to have partnered with Trimline to renovate all six of our ships,” said Windstar’s CEO Hans Birkholz. “Both Star Breeze and Star Legend look simply stunning Trimline’s certainly has the ability to complete high quality turnkey refits within very quick time frames. The quality of their workmanship is evident in everything they do, which is why they continue to be our preferred provider.”

“We are delighted to have been the driving force behind the transformation of all Windstar Cruises’ vessels,” added Mike Oliver, Trimline’s Sales and Marketing Director. “Having worked with Windstar for many years now, we have a deep understanding of their requirements and have been able to anticipate design changes as we’ve progressed. Once again we’ve delivered right on time and exceeded expectations.

Virgin Cruises Announces PortMiami As Home For Its First Cruise Ship Virgin Cruises has selected PortMiami as the home port for its first cruise ship that will set sail in 2020 and has signed a binding letter of intent with Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri for three new mid-size ships.

Virgin Cruises’ three new mid-size ships, of about 110,000 gross tons each, are slated for delivery in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Each ship will feature 1,430 guest cabins to host more than 2,800 guests. There will also be 1,150 crew on board to look after the guests and deliver the Virgin service. Embarking from PortMiami, Virgin Cruises plans to offer a range of seven-day Caribbean itineraries, with a Sunday sail date.

“This is a very exciting day for Virgin and travellers around the globe,” Richard Branson said. “We now have the right partners in place to build a world-class cruise line that will redefine the cruising experience for good. The Virgin Cruises approach will appeal to cruisers and non-cruisers alike, and we look forward to being in Miami and delivering an experience for people who want a new way to cruise.”

Virgin Cruises’ binding letter of intent with Fincantieri is the first part of a two-step process with both companies committed to signing a contract at the end of 2015. The PortMiami agreement will be present at the Miami-Dad County Board of Commissioners meeting on June 30th, 2015.

“We are committed to making waves in the cruise industry, and partnering with Fincantieri and PortMiami sets Virgin Cruises up to do just that,” said Virgin Cruises CEO Tom McAlpine. “Today’s announcement brings together important ingredients in our future success – Miami’s vibrant culture paired with the excellent Port infrastructure and Port team; and Fincantieri’s expertise in prototyping, their creativity and understanding of our vision.”

Customers are invited to join the journey by visiting the Virgin Cruises website to share their ideas on what the new cruise line can do to deliver an incredible experience at sea.

July Interquiz: Movie Edition - Test Your Knowledge of The Silver Screen Test your knowledge of the silver screen and play the July InterQuiz: Movie Edition today – a three minute quiz comprised of destination related multiple-choice questions provided by local Intercruises teams worldwide. “Are you a local Expert” – Play Now! Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones and Mad Max all get a mention in the July InterQuiz: Movie Edition https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/InterQuiz/18 June InterQuiz Winners Congratulations to Natasha Harris, Shore Excursion Executive Carnival UK and Sonia Lokossou, Intercruises Senior Account

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. to open sales office in Australia Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq: NCLH) announced today the expansion of its presence in the Australia and Pacific region, with the establishment of a sales and marketing centre based in Sydney, Australia to support the growing demand for cruise travel in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

The office will represent the company’s three lines: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Industry veteran Steve Odell will be joining the company as Senior Vice President and Managing Director Australasia for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. Beginning 1 October 2015, Odell will be responsible for the continued growth of the company’s presence in the region and differentiating each brand’s unique offerings.

“In view of the growing international interest in cruising combined with our strong growth strategy, the new office in Australia is a natural next step in our global expansion of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings,” said Harry Sommer, executive vice president of international business development for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “It reflects our confidence in the growing Australia and New Zealand markets and we believe that our three brands – Norwegian with Freestyle cruising, Oceania Cruises as an upper premium product and Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the luxury sector – are all a perfect fit for the Australian market, offering a wide variety of experiences and worldwide itineraries.”

Manager, Turnaround Services-UK & Ireland. On behalf of Natasha, Intercruises donated to ME Research UK, which investigates the causes, consequences and treatment of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (also known as ME/CFS).

Find out more information: http://www.meresearch.org.uk/ Sonia donated to British Red Cross, a volunteer-led humanitarian organisation that helps people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are.

Find out more information here: http://www.redcross.org.uk/ June InterQuiz: History Edition – Key Statistics • Perfect Score: 18% scored 6/6 • Most Common Score: 32% scored 4/6 • Most Difficult Question: “What was the name of the last Queen of Cyprus?” (Answer: Catherine Cornaro, only 38% answered correctly) • Easiest Question: “What is the name of the formal writing system used in ancient Egypt?” (Answer: Hieroglyphics, 88% answered correctly)

Odell joins the company with broad cruise industry experience earned over the past thirty years through pioneering activity in a variety of senior positions in the luxury sector. He has played a key role in the establishment of the luxury cruise segment in Australasia since 2000, most recently as Silversea’s President EMEA & Asia Pacific. He has also served as Chairman ICCA (now CLIA Australasia) between 2005 & 2007 and was a founding Board member of the Asia Cruise Association (now CLIA Asia).

The new Australia office will offer sales and marketing support for all three brands, providing additional training opportunities on a more regular basis and directly by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd staff. The company’s relationships with current travel industry partners and local representatives will remain in place, with the office providing further on-site support.

Norwegian Hurtigruten invests in new expedition ship The new ship’s manoeuvrability and optimal size will bring Hurtigruten`s guests even closer to nature experiences. - We invest in our fleet to ensure that Hurtigruten remains a world leader in sustainable explorer travels along the Norwegian coast and in polar waters, says CEO Daniel Skjeldam.

It’s been close to ten years since last time Hurtigruten invested in a new ship. The new ship was built in Portugal in 2009 and has been given the temporary name “MS Norway Explorer.”

She will have the capacity of 320 guests and 180 berths.

The new ship is a strong addition to the Hurtigruten fleet and will replace MS Midnatsol along the Norwegian coast, when she sails to Antarctica for the winter season of 2016/2017, says Skjeldam.

Optimized for polar waters Already this week, the ship makes its first voyage as member of the Hurtigruten fleet, from Portugal to Scandinavian waters. There she will be docked to undergo a total reconstruction in order to meet Hurtigruten`s high standards, before she is included in Hurtigruten operations next year. At that time she will be specially adapted for sailing in polar waters.

The guest area will consist of comfortable cabins and common areas that makes it possible to experience the spectacular scenery in comfortable surroundings. It is a modern and environmentally friendly ship, and we will make further adjustments to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, says Skjeldam.

Investing for the future The Hurtigruten fleet now consists of a total of 13 vessels.

This investment gives us increased flexibility and opens great opportunities to enrich our guests’ unique polar experiences.

The vessel complements our fleet of expedition ships and also opens a window of opportunity to expand our service and offers at destinations such as Greenland, Svalbard and Antarctica, says Skjeldam.

Fast, Free Internet and Exciting New Features For Royal Caribbean’s Majesty of the Seas Following popular demand, Majesty of the Seas will continue to offer short cruises under the Royal Caribbean International brand and will homeport in Port Canaveral, along Florida’s Space coast, from summer 2016. Before her season in Port Canaveral, where she will sail to the Bahamas, Majesty of the Seas will go into dry dock for upgrades and receive a range of innovative on board amenities.

Voom, the fastest internet at sea, will be available free exclusively for guests on Majesty of the Seas, enabling them to stay connected, brag about their holiday to friends and family, stream their favourite movies and music, and enjoy popular online video gaming.

Other exciting new features to be introduced on Majesty of the Seas include thrilling waterslides, family-friendly Jacuzzis, a poolside movie screen and award-winning entertainment. Guests will also be able to enjoy the Dreamworks Experience, featuring activities and entertainment with Shrek, Fiona and other favourite characters from the animation studio’s popular movies. An enhanced casino will offer gamers a variety of popular slot machines and table games and suite guests will enjoy exclusive amenities and services as part of a newly enhanced suite programme.

Some of the new culinary options include Izumi Japanese cuisine with fresh sushi rolls and sashimi, the Sabor Taqueria, featuring a mouthwatering menu of authentic and modern Mexican dishes, which can be enjoyed alfresco; and the Chef’s Table, an exclusive experience hosted by the Executive Chef and Sommelier for an intimate wine pairing dinner.

Majesty of the Seas will sail three and four night cruises to the Bahamas with visits to the cruise line’s private island destination, CocoCay. Highly rated among guests, this tropical paradise offers white sand beaches and turquoise blue waters set in 140 acres of lush vegetation. The secluded Bahamian island, reserved exclusively for Royal Caribbean guests, features an aquatic park and water slide, beach volleyball and football, snorkelling and other water-based recreation.

With Majesty of the Seas’ move, the cruise line is now able to deploy Rhapsody of the Seas – which was announced to sail short Bahamas itineraries from Port Canaveral – to Tampa offering seven-night Western Caribbean cruises in winter 2016. The new itineraries will further expand the choices for guests in Central Florida and help Royal Caribbean increase the total number of U.S. destinations, from where holidaymakers can find conveniently accessible ports to embark on the ultimate Caribbean cruise adventure.

The exact day of the company’s 175th anniversary was celebrated in style by Cunard with two concerts for the flagship’s passengers and region’s dignitaries. Held at Liverpool’s Anglican cathedral, Cunard’s story was told in words and music with noted speakers from the worlds of politics, TV and beyond introducing musical interludes representing key periods in the line’s 175 year history, performed by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Anthony Inglis, The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir, The Liverpool Cathedral Choir, The band of the Welsh Guards and highly-acclaimed soloists Laura Wright, Jon Christos and Jenny Williams.

Cunard marks the 175th anniversary to the day of the inauguration of regular Transatlantic crossings Queen Mary 2 sounded her ship’s whistle (foghorn) at 1400 hours in Liverpool today to signify the time exactly 175 years earlier that Cunard’s first ship Britannia left the city’s Coburg Dock and inaugurated the first ever scheduled Transatlantic service.

That first crossing changed the face of ocean travel, establishing the first permanent link between the Old World and the New – a link that has remained unbroken for 175 years as Cunard’s ships have crossed and re-crossed the Atlantic every year since, in peace and war, without fail.

Britannia was Cunard’s first flagship but at just 1,154 tons and carrying just 115 passengers, she could fit inside the Britannia Restaurant of today’s 150,000 ton flagship Queen Mary 2, which accommodates 2,600 guests. But the little ship’s departure heralded the start of passenger shipping sailing from Liverpool.

History was also made in the city today when 400 Cunard passengers embarked Queen Mary 2 bound for Halifax, Boston and New York. This was the first time in nearly 50 years that passengers have set out on a Transatlantic crossing from Liverpool since Cunard’s Franconia’s last crossing from the city in 1968.

RAF Red Arrows honour Cunard’s 175th anniversary with a spectacular fly-past in Liverpool

Eyes were on the skies in Liverpool at 4.15pm today as the RAF Red Arrows performed a surprise flypast over Queen Mary 2 to mark Cunard’s 175th anniversary to day, thrilling spectators who had gathered along Prince’s Parade to see Cunard’s flagship and the nine Red Arrows jets in dramatic combination.

The world’s leading aerobatics team provided the flypast as Queen Mary 2 celebrated the company’s 175th anniversary to the day in her ‘spiritual home’ of Liverpool. This evening the flagship will continue the celebrations with a Transatlantic Crossing to New York, calling en route at Halifax and Boston to re-create the original Liverpool/ Halifax/Boston voyage of Cunard’s first ship, Britannia, back in 1840.

Cunard’s Marketing Director, Angus Struthers said: “Just six weeks after the RAF Red Arrows delivered the finishing touch to the Three Queens Liverpool Salute, it’s wonderful to have them perform a flypast over flagship Queen Mary 2 on the exact day 175 years ago that Cunard’s first ship inaugurated the first regular transatlantic service, on 4 July 1840. It was the perfect send-off as Queen Mary 2 prepares to sail to North America on this special 175th anniversary voyage that pays tribute to the early days of the company that grew to become the Cunard we know today.”

For further information about this voyage please visit www.cunard.co.uk.

Working in partnership with the city and its 175 Transatlantic themed activities at Pier Head, which included a Food and Vintage Festival, Classic Car cavalcade and world record Catwalk bid, Cunard’s 175 year celebrations culminated in a dramatic firework display fired from a mid-river barge as Queen Mary 2 prepared to set sail.

Angus Struthers, Cunard Director said: “It’s just six weeks since the Three Queens Liverpool Salute made news around the world and the city has once again given Cunard the warmest of welcomes. The atmosphere in the city is still amazing and the support for Queen Mary 2 has been fantastic on this, the exact day that Cunard’s first ship set out on her maiden crossing from Liverpool, 175 years ago.

Queen Mary 2’s departure today on a special crossing from Liverpool to Halifax and Boston re-creates that first voyage, and on board talks by historians, ship designers and Cunard specialists will bring fresh new perspectives to the Cunard story, just as our two concerts in Liverpool’s Anglican cathedral today have really brought the company’s history alive in such a resonant way.

Today has also been the first time in nearly 50 years that we’ve been able to welcome transatlantic passengers aboard in Liverpool and those 400 people have each made a little bit of history.

This has been such an extraordinary year for Cunard but it has been the strength of the partnership with Liverpool, our ‘spiritual home’ which has made our 175th anniversary so special. Thank you Liverpool for celebrating with us today!”

VIPs join Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines on board Balmoral at the Port of Tyne to celebrate first-ever cruise season from Newcastle in 2016

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines returns to Belfast in 2015 with Black Watch Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines will return to Belfast in Autumn 2015, with three cruises on board 804-guest Black Watch. Fred. Olsen will be offering guests a choice of a 16-night W1527 ‘Scandinavian Capitals’ cruise, an eight-night W1518 ‘Discovering Spain & France’ adventure and a 14-night W1519 ‘Morocco, Portugal & The Canaries’ getaway.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines was delighted to welcome a delegation of VIPs on a visit to its 1,350-guest flagship, Balmoral, at the Port of Tyne on 1st July 2015, as part of her tennight ‘Around the UK’ cruise. Fred. Olsen will be basing Balmoral at the Port of Tyne from May to August 2016, for her first-ever cruise season from Newcastle. In fact, this will be the first time that the ship has operated from any port other than Southampton.

The VIP Reception on Balmoral was hosted jointly by Fred. Olsen and the Port of Tyne, and dignitaries attending included the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Newcastle, the Mayor and Mayoress of Gateshead, and the Honorary Consuls for Finland and Germany, as well as a number of key travel agents and media partners. Whilst on board Balmoral, the VIPs were treated to a Champagne welcome in the ship’s main show lounge, presentations by Fred.

Olsen and the Port of Tyne, and a delicious afternoon tea, complete with a spectacular ice carving!

Balmoral’s move to Newcastle will mean that Fred. Olsen will be almost doubling its capacity from this important, strategic region next year, and will be offering its loyal guests in the North East an even greater number of cruise departures than ever before, with a choice of 11 in total.

Mike Rodwell, Managing Director of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are delighted to welcome such prestigious visitors on board Balmoral, the flagship of our fleet, and we would like to thank the Port of Tyne for their hospitality. This visit to Balmoral is an important opportunity for us to give our partners in the North East the chance to find out more about cruising with Fred. Olsen from ‘right on your doorstep’, from the Port of Tyne, and also how we might be able to help to benefit local businesses.

“The Port of Tyne is ideally placed for our ever-popular Norway, Scandinavian and Baltic itineraries, and we can save up to three days’ cruising time sailing from Newcastle to Norway than from Southern ports. Bookings for 2016 have shown that, so far, our 14-night ‘The Wonders of Spitsbergen’ and 11-night ‘Icelandic Wildlife, Falls & Hot Springs’ cruises are amongst the bestsellers in the North East.”

Susan Wear, Director of Corporate Affairs Director at the Port of Tyne, said: “Last year, there were 31 cruises from the Port of Tyne and we’re expecting a record 41 next year. The impact on the economy of that is so important. It’s the money tourists spend when they’re here. £55 million goes into the local economy from cruise and ferry passengers and that supports 1,800 tourism jobs. Fred Olsen’s decision to base Balmoral here is helping us to grow the market and it’s a real vote of confidence in the port.”

Fred. Olsen has over 100 years of heritage in running passenger services from the Port of Tyne, and has been operating regular cruise calls from Newcastle since 2006. To demonstrate its commitment to its growing share of the cruise market in the North East, Fred. Olsen has made a considerable investment in adding its unique branding to the Port of Tyne’s International Passenger Terminal.

The appealing combination of choice and value offered by Fred. Olsen has already seen many first-time cruisers and repeat customers from the North East make the decision to use their local port and sail from the Port of Tyne. Research shows that guests from the North East rate the choice of destination as the most compelling factor when booking a cruise with Fred. Olsen. As a result, in 2016, guests can choose from a wider selection of destinations sailing directly from the Port of Tyne, including the cooler climes of Norway, Scandinavia and the Baltics, to the warmer shores of the Canary Islands, Madeira, the Azores, Portugal, Morocco and Spain.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www. fredolsencruises.com To find out more about the Port of Tyne, go to www.portoftyne.co.uk

Nathan Philpot, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is pleased to be back in Belfast for a third season, following a successful series of cruises in 2013 and 2014.

“It is a great opportunity for our guests from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to take a cruise so much closer to home, from ‘right on their doorstep’, and enables them to start their holiday in a relaxed, stress-free way…ready for the warm Fred. Olsen welcome that our guests have come to expect from us!”

One Northern Irish guest on board Fred. Olsen’s popular 10-night ‘Morocco, Portugal & Spain’ cruise ex Belfast in September 2014 commented upon his positive experience: “Half-an-hour after leaving my house, I was settled in my cabin on board ship, marvelling at how easy and convenient the whole experience was. After my taxi dropped me at the terminal, my suitcase was whisked away by a porter who informed me that the next time I would see my luggage it would be in my cabin.

The check-in process was so simple - I presented my passport and was issued with a boarding card, then it was on to a shuttle bus, which delivered me to the ship’s gangway, from where I was able to proceed directly to my cabin.”

Fred. Olsen is pleased to have been awarded the ‘Gold Trusted Merchant’ status by independent review site Feefo in 2015, for the second year in a row.

This accreditation is based on genuine customer feedback and, to date, Fred.

Olsen has received over 11,000 reviews, with 95% of these being in the ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’ categories.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www.fredolsencruises.com.

Last chance to vote in the Cruise Awards 2015

Princess Cruises’ new ship begins countdown to summer 2017 debut for China year-round cruising Carnival plc recently marked the beginning of construction of Princess Cruises’ third new generation of ships with the official keel laying ceremony at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. As the keel – the bottommost part of the ship – was ceremoniously lowered into position, shipyard officials celebrated the occasion with a traditional Chinese lion dance. The yet-to-be-named ship will be customised to appeal to the China market when it debuts in summer 2017.

Following the lion dance and a traditional blessing by a priest, the ship’s keel – which weighs approximately 500 tonnes – was moved into position by crane onto the keel blocks. The computer-guided manoeuvre took only minutes, belying the more than two million man-hours that will ultimately go into building the vessel. The 3,600-passenger, 141,000-ton ship will remain in the building dock until float out next summer.

“We’re incredibly excited to mark this step in the ship’s construction,” said Anthony Kaufman, Princess Cruises’ senior vice president of Asia operations, who travelled to Italy for the ceremony. “We’re very pleased to be working with our long-term partner, Fincantieri, on our newest ship and we appreciate their partnership and collaboration to customise and tailor the ship for the Chinese market.”

“The lion dance has been part of the Chinese culture for thousands of years and is performed on various auspicious occasions and celebrations.

According to traditional Chinese belief, the lion signifies courage, wisdom, and good fortune and brings happiness, longevity, and good luck. We believe this special ceremony will bring prosperity and good fortune to Princess Cruises and our guests in China,” said Cherry Wang, country director of Carnival China, who also travelled to Italy for the ceremony.

The new Royal Class ship will offer many of the same special features as Royal Princess and Regal Princess, which have been well-received by the industry. These include a dramatic multi-story atrium serving as the social hub of the ship; an over-the-ocean SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship; the Princess Live! interactive studio; and a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light.

Guests will enjoy the international flavour of cruising with Princess, including experiencing cuisines from China, Japan, South-East Asia, Italy, France, and North America among other regions. They can also experience an array of international festivals re-created to celebrate cultures around the world; Princess Watercolor Fantasy, a fountain and music show; Movies Under the Stars featuring the largest outdoor screen at sea; and balconies on all outside staterooms. Accommodations will be configured to appeal to families and multi-generational travellers.

In addition, the new ship will showcase the exclusive Princess Class experience designed specifically for the Chinese market. Delivered by the ship’s dedicated and caring crew, Princess Class enriches the travel experience of each cruise guest, enabling them to participate in unique cultural, culinary and entertainment programmes including the World Leaders Dinner, traditional English afternoon tea, a Lobster Grill, Ultimate Balcony Dining, an ocean view hot pot dinner option, ballroom dancing and an unparalleled duty-free shopping experience.

Additional details about the new ship’s features and deployment schedule will be announced over the coming months.

Voting for the prestigious Cruise Awards 2015 closes on Friday 21 August, and every company on the shortlist is encouraged to let their customers know the closing date so they can vote for them.

With categories including Best Cruise Agent, Best Cruise Line (ocean and river) and Best New Ship (ocean and river) this year’s awards promise to be the biggest yet.

Liz Jarvis, Editor of Cruise International, said: “The Cruise Awards celebrate the cream of the cruise industry, and because they’re voted for by the holidaymakers themselves they’re an excellent benchmark of consumer opinion.

“Last year’s Cruise Awards attracted over 26,000 votes and this year’s awards are being really hotly contested – it’s going to be very interesting watching how things develop in certain categories over the next few weeks.”

Consumers are asked to vote here for their favourites in each category (see below for a full list).

Everyone voting in the Cruise International Awards 2015 will have the chance to win a holiday for two to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The twitter handle for the awards is @CruiseAwards and the hashtag is #CruiseAwards2015.

The Cruise Awards 2015 ceremony will be held at the Ham Yard Hotel in London on September 16.

For marketing and sponsorship opportunities for the event, contact chatty.dobson@chelseamagazines.com.

The categories are: Best Cruise Line Best New Ship (Ocean) Best New Ship (River) Best River Cruise Line Best Luxury River Cruise Line Best Luxury Cruise Line Best Boutique Cruise Line Best for First-Time Cruisers Best Destination (Europe) – sponsored by Azamara Club Cruises Best Destination (Rest of World) – sponsored by Azamara Club Cruises Best for Enrichment Best Cruise Agent Best Holiday Extra Best for Food Best for Onboard Entertainment Best for Activities Best for Families Best for Adventure Best Value for Money Cruise Line Best for Wellbeing Best Cruise Blogger

MSC Cruises Adds New Cuba Sailings From December 2015

MSC Cruises, the world’s largest privately-owned global cruise line and the market leader in the Mediterranean and South America, announced today that, starting in December 2015, it will be the first mainstream cruise line to homeport in Cuba. Its 2,120-guest MSC Opera will homeport in Havana for the winter 2015-16 season to offer guests 16 Caribbean cruises.

The new itinerary will give holidaymakers from around the world the opportunity to visit Jamaica, the Cayman Islands and Mexico with two nights and two and a half days in the Cuban capital.

Gianni Onorato, Chief Executive Officer of MSC Cruises, commented: “We are particularly proud to make this exciting new destination available to our guests. For this, I wish to personally thank all those who worked with us over the past several months to make it possible for MSC Cruises to launch Cuba as a destination to its guests. In particular, I wish to thank the Ministers of Transportation and Tourism of the Cuban Government and their representatives for their continued, highly professional contribution.”

Mr. Onorato added: “The move to Cuba proves our commitment to offer our guests and holiday-makers the best and most sought-after destinations as they become accessible – thus further enhancing our global offering while providing travellers best-in-class experiences and service.”

“The inaugural cruise will take place in less than six months from now,” concluded Mr. Onorato, “but we can definitely confirm the strong demand for the product, due to the combination of the attractiveness of Cuba as a culture-rich destination, coupled with the fact that it is offered through our distinctive MSC Cruises experience.”

The sailings will be available to UK guests on a cruise-only basis, going on sale across all channels on Thursday 9 July.

To offer local ground services and shore excursions MSC Cruises will partner with Cubanacan, the Cuba-based group created more than 20 years ago known for its experienced professionals and high quality of service.

The first cruise will depart from Havana on 22 December 2015, following MSC Opera’s Grand Voyage to Cuba from Genoa, departing on 2 December 2015. To ensure that guests can enjoy and discover the capital city, the Grand Voyage will include a call in Havana on 18 December, and resume its itinerary in the region before heading back to Cuba for its final call of the journey on 21 December.

On 12 April 2016, the ship will leave Havana for a Grand Voyage back to Europe, with Warnemünde (Germany) as its final destination, arriving on 7 May 2016.

During their two-and-a-half-day stay in Havana, MSC Opera’s guests can explore the city’s stunning old centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover its history, culture and architecture. No visit to Havana is complete without a stroll along the famous Malecón seafront promenade, where the island’s renowned laid-back lifestyle is in full effect.

In connection with the deployment to Cuba, MSC Opera’s original winter 2015-16 schedule in the Canary Islands, Madeira and Morocco has been cancelled.

UK guests who have already booked a Canaries sailing for winter 2015-16 will have the opportunity to get a full refund or transfer their holiday to alternative MSC Cruises Mediterranean itineraries, with the offer of upgrades or on-board credit as compensation.

Alternatively, guests can switch their booking to Cuba. Fly-cruise customers will be charged a low rate fixed fee (approx. £285 per person TBC) to account for the difference in flight costs.

MSC Cruises Becomes Europe’s Number One Cruise Line Company To Host 1.1 Million Passengers On Board Its Ships The just-published 2015-2016 Cruise Industry News Annual Report declared MSC Cruises the number one cruise line in Europe. The Report, which is one of the most reputable sources of information for the industry, stated that MSC Cruises dominated the leading rank in the industry thanks to a deployed capacity across the Continent of approx. 1.1 million passengers.

MSC Cruises CEO Gianni Onorato commented: “We are particularly proud of this achievement. For it, we wish to thank all of our guests who, by choosing MSC Cruises, have recognised the quality of our product and offering .”

“MSC Cruises is a European-based company with bold global ambitions; we sail to many select destinations worldwide, from the Caribbean to South America and South Africa.

But Europe, and the Mediterranean in particular, remains at the heart of our business even as we grow and open up new geographical possibilities – Cuba being the most recent example.”

Swiss-based MSC Cruises S.A. is the world’s largest privatelyowned cruise line. In addition to being the market leader in Europe (including in the Mediterranean) the Company benefits from a leadership position in the South American and South African markets.

MSC Cruises also offers cruises in the Caribbean, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Oman and Northern Europe. Earlier this month MSC Cruises made the headlines when it announced that, as of December 2015, it will be the first mainstream cruise line to offer guests the opportunity to visit Cuba and set sail on one of the 16 cruises that MSC Opera will operate from Havana. MSC Cruises will give cruisers the unique chance to get aboard the completely renovated MSC Opera, part of the Company’s €200 million Renaissance programme, and cruise to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands and Mexico, with two nights and two and a half days in the Cuban capital.

MSC Cruises grew 800% in its first 10 years to become the fourth largest cruise company in the industry. The Company is set to double its fleet capacity by 2022 through a €5.1 billion investment plan, which includes confirmed orders for four ships and the option to build three more.

Of these ships, MSC Cruises also recently announced the opening of sales for MSC Meraviglia’s inaugural cruises – the Company’s first new-generation ship, which is part of this investment plan. As of June 2017, the ship will sail in the Mediterranean from Barcelona, Genoa or Marseille. The second next-generation ship currently under construction, MSC Seaside, will sail year-round in the Caribbean starting in December 2017.

TUI Cruises To Continue Its Expansion Course Order Placed For Two Additional New Cruise Ships

TUI Group and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. have given further expansion plans for joint venture TUI Cruises concrete shape: with the Supervisory Boards of the two holding companies RCCL and TUI Group approving orders for two additional cruise ships.These orders have now been placed with Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.

Sebastian Ebel, responsible for the Cruise activities on the Board of TUI Group: ”We regard the cruise market as a growth market for our Group. By expanding our activities in this segment we want to drive the planned revenue and earnings increases for the TUI Group and at the same time develop into one of Europe’s leading cruise providers.”

“The evolution of TUI Cruises has been extraordinary,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “The addition of two new builds reinforces TUI’s leadership position in the premium cruise market and further solidifies the successful partnership of our two companies.”

“TUI Cruises has firmly established itself in the German-speaking market, with occupancy of our fleet totaling more than 100 percent last year,” said Wybcke Meier, CEO of TUI Cruises. This year, demand has also been excellent so far – with bookings currently being taken for five ships. A further expansion provides a great opportunity to strengthen our position with one of the most modern fleets in the German market.”

The new builds planned for 2018 and 2019 will successively replace Mein Schiff 1 and Mein Schiff 2. The first two TUI Cruises ships will be passed on to Thomson Cruises within TUI Group.

Mein Schiff 4 has been launched in the market on June 6 2015, Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 6 are to be commissioned in 2016 and 2017, respectively.The other two new builds would follow in 2018 and 2019. With a modern 6-ship-fleet, TUI Cruises is well positioned to participate in the growth of the market in the long term.

CLIA Recognizes Mercy Ships as Their Charity of Choice Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has selected Mercy Ships as their Charity of Choice. Through this partnership, CLIA will work with Mercy Ships to further endorse their initiatives to deliver healthcare to developing nations and make CLIA global members aware of the international nonprofit’s mission and efforts.

Mercy Ships operates floating hospitals that provide training for medical professionals, along with curative surgical interventions. The partnership will help Mercy Ships gain increased visibility in the cruise industry as well as facilitate collaboration with CLIA and its members.

“We’re proud to support the work that Mercy Ships is doing to increase access to healthcare throughout the world,” said Thomas P. Ostebo, President and CEO, CLIA. “The partnership is a natural fit, and we are delighted to be working with this reputable organization who is making a positive difference in the world.”

“As the world’s largest cruise industry association, CLIA will bring great value to our organization.” said Donovan Palmer, Group Managing Director for Mercy Ships. “Their knowledge of the industry and willingness to help get our message out to its members will be immeasurable.”

Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to deliver free, world-class healthcare services, capacity building and sustainable development to those without access in the developing world. Mercy Ship volunteers have been able to operate across the globe. A few examples include: • 78,000 life-changing operations such as cleft lip and palate repair, cataract removal, orthopedic procedures, facial reconstruction and obstetric fistula repair • 353,000 dental procedures • Trained 5,800 local teachers • Trained 35,300 local professionals in their area of expertise (anesthesiology, midwifery, sterilization, orthopedic and reconstructive surgery, leadership) • Basic healthcare education classes for 183,000 local people • 1,100 community development projects focusing on water and sanitation, education, infrastructure development and agriculture

Seatrade Cruise Awards 2015 Competition within the cruise and river industry has never been fiercer. In excess of 23 million passengers expected to board a cruise ship in 2015 and with this figure set to rise to above 25 million by 2020, the has never been a better opportunity to recognise those who are standing head and shoulders above the rest.

Formerly known as the Seatrade Insider awards, the 2015 Seatrade Cruise Awards are judged by an independent panel of expert judges, who are focused on rewarding innovation, exceptional service and notable contributions towards promoting cruise tourism.

The categories for the 2015 Seatrade Cruise Awards include: • Port of the Year • Destination of the Year • Environmental Initiative of the Year • Supplier of the Year • Seatrade Cruise Personality of the Year • Seatrade Lifetime Achievement Award for Services to Cruising Entries for the 9th edition of the Seatrade Cruise Awards are now open, and close at midnight, 31 July 2015.

Entry is free, quick and simple – so enter today at www.seatrade-cruise.com/awards

Scenic Launches South East Asia Brochure For 2016

Emerald Waterways Unveils New Itinerary For Southeast Asia Emerald Waterways is delighted to announce its brand new itinerary for the exciting destination of Southeast Asia. For the very first time, Emerald Waterways will combine the best of fully-inclusive river cruising and touring to take you on an unforgettable journey through the majesty of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand.

Experience the beauty and intrigue of Hanoi, a city filled with culture, combining traditional customs and modern flair. Float into Halong Bay and behold the majestic sight of hundreds of limestone pillars engulfed by azure waters, a truly unique experience.

Next, encounter the elaborate pagodas and temples lining the Perfume River, the mysterious palaces of the Former Imperial City of Hue, and the famous ruins of Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples.

Launched in 2014, Emerald Waterways has exclusively chartered the impressive Mekong Navigator, one of the most luxurious vessels on the Mekong. Breath taking fivestar facilities include a spa, sundeck library as well as spacious and opulent suites decorated to blend the French Colonial style and rich culture of the region.

A cruise on the Mekong with Emerald Waterways gives guests the chance to see secret pockets of Vietnam with its Enrich Experiences ensuring this is truly a trip of a lifetime.

To celebrate the launch of this brand new itinerary, Emerald Waterways is offering an exclusive discount £1000 per couple until 31st August. So take the chance to soak up the sights of Southeast Asia for truly wondrous experience.

For the first time leading luxury travel company, Scenic has combined its expertise of all-inclusive river cruising, with fully-inclusive touring, through the launch of the new Southeast Asia brochure.

Scenic is offering seven unforgettable itineraries through Myanmar, Indochina, Thailand and Singapore with journeys ranging from 15 to 29 days. Each cruise offers guests the chance to experience the majesty of the region and discover their individual moments of wonder.

Each cruise includes a stay on one of Scenic’s brand new ships. Enjoy either a 10-night cruise on the Irrawaddy aboard the Scenic Aura, or a seven-night cruise on the Mekong aboard the Scenic Spirit.

Set sail on the Irrawaddy on the Scenic Spirit and be entranced by the mystical Myanmar from Royal Mandalay to Lake Inle. From tea in a village monastery to taking part in a traditional cooking class, your times on the Irrawaddy will be some you’ll never forget.

Experience the enchantment of the Mekong aboard the Aura. With hilltop pagodas, striking views of lush countryside, the exotic escapism of Ho Chi Minh City and the gentle shorelines of Thailand’s beaches, this cruise gives you an authentic look into the sights and sounds of South East Asia The custom-built Scenic Spirit offers guests a third more room than other ships on the Mekong. With Asian-influenced decór throughout, and Sun Lounges for you to unwind and take in the colourful sights that line the riverbanks, the Scenic Spirit will help ensure you have the trip of a lifetime. The Scenic Aura, offers an intimate and boutique environment, with just 44 guests per voyage who will enjoy guaranteed five star luxury travel.

Both ships boast a choice of dining venues offering a la carte menus to a casual buffet, a vitality pool and bar area, spacious bar and lounge, Sun Deck with open-air cinema, complimentary beverages and a butler service for all guests.

To complement their custom built ships, guests will also enjoy Scenic’s celebrated all-inclusive service. That means all on board drinks and dining, flights, Freechoice excursions, Enrich experiences, activities, internal transfers, tips and gratuities are included in the price of the cruises.

When guests depart the comfort of the ships, they can look forward to staying in great hotels and enjoying even more included experiences, as well as ample independent touring and dining opportunities. Breakfast is included every day, and a Scenic Tour Director or local representative will be on hand to ensure checking in to your hotel and getting to the airport is hassle-free.

To accompany the release of their new brochure, Scenic are giving guests the chance to save £1,500 per couple on the price of their journey when they book by 14 August 2015. With journeys starting from as little as £3,495pp, now is the perfect time to experience South East Asia in style.

For more information, visit www.scenic.co.uk

Celebrity Cruises And Waitrose Join Forces To Tell Taste Of Travel Stories Modern luxury cruise line Celebrity Cruises has partnered with Waitrose, to create a series of travel-inspired mini films that showcase food and drink experiences on offer around the world.

The series of films entitled ‘A Taste of Travel’ have been created to offer travel and food fans a different perspective on popular destinations such as Barcelona, Istanbul and Reykjavik and will be presented by cookery writer and deli-owner Rosie Lovell.

Each film offers insight that unveils the lesser-known food and drink specialties, customs and cultures of six different destinations that they can enjoy at home on Waitrose TV, the brand’s online television portal, or on holiday with Celebrity Cruises.

The six short films will be available to view on both Waitrose and Celebrity Cruises own websites and Youtube channels between July and September 2015.

Discovering the origins of the food and drink cultures throughout Europe, the new short films all tell behind-the-scenes stories, and introduce the viewer to local experts from the region where a certain speciality comes from. Through the ‘A Taste of Travel’ series, Celebrity Cruises and Waitrose hope to invite their customers to try new tastes and share new experiences, whether from the comfort of their home or the shores of new climes – each delivering something out of the ordinary for their customers and guests.

In addition to award-winning food and wine, Celebrity Cruises is also renowned for its attention-to-detail stylish rooms, Canyon Ranch spas on-board ships, real grass lawns; stunning boutiques from designer brands such as Michael Kors, iLounges with Apple Specialists at Sea and much more.

The shows will be available to view on the Celebrity Cruises website celebritycruises.co.uk/atasteoftravel and on Waitrose TV via a computer, tablet or smartphone at waitrose.com/tv. Waitrose TV features new videos every week and is also a great new way to find and share recipe inspiration, improve your cooking skills and then shop for the ingredients you need, or find out more about where food comes from.

For more information on Celebrity Cruises please visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk.

Richard Exley

CLIA would like to wish Richard Exley the best in his upcoming retirement, and thank him for his dedication to the industry over his career.

Norwegian Cruise Line appoints cruise brand specialist as new Managing Director Europe Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that Christian Boell has been appointed as Managing Director for Europe and will lead the teams in the company’s newly opened Southampton office as well as its existing European office locations in Germany and Malta as of 1 July 2015.

He will be based in Germany and report directly to Francis Riley, Senior Vice President International Sales & Operations. ”We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Christian Boell, a well-respected and talented marketer with a wealth of experience and a true cruise enthusiast. We welcome him to Norwegian, where his extensive industry know-how will play a vital role in better positioning the Norwegian Cruise Line brand and our innovative Freestyle Cruising concept in our European key markets“, says Francis Riley.

Over the last couple of years, Christian Boell successfully managed different tourism brands and has initiated innovative branding concepts to better meet demand and the requirements of different target groups. Before joining international Steigenberger and Schörghuber hotel group (Arabella Sheraton), he played a major role in the launch and expansion of German cruise lines AIDA and Arosa. In his last role, he headed marketing and sales as managing director of German river cruise brand nicko cruises.

Andy Harmer Director aharmer@cruising.org Penny Guy PR Director pguy@cruising.org Adele Fitzpatrick-Foster Events and Training Manager afoster@cruising.org Alex Holubowicz Creative and Digital Co-ordinator aholubowicz@cruising.org Augustus Lonsdale Business Development Co-ordinator alonsdale@cruising.org Megan Saunders Office Manager & Support Executive msaunders@cruising.org

CLIA UK & Ireland www.cruiseexperts.org ukinfo@cruising.org t: +44 (0)20 3582 4378