CLIA UK & Ireland Monthly Newsletter Edition 20

Edition 20 - December 2014

Membership News Regent Seven Seas Cruises Unveils First Visual Of Highly Anticipated Seven Seas Explorer And Launches Dedicated Ship Microsite

Regent Seven Seas Cruises revealed the first rendering of its new ship, Seven Seas Explorer, and launched a dedicated microsite for the ship designed to be the most luxurious ship ever built.

The microsite, found at http://www.rssc.com/explorer, is the official site for details, imagery and updates on the ship, which will debut in the summer of 2016. The site will feature the latest information on Seven Seas Explorer, including updates on construction, public space and suite designs, onboard amenities, itineraries and other elements as they are revealed. An added feature to the site is a never before seen two-minute video that sets the elegant tone for Seven Seas Explorer, while building anticipation for the newest addition to the fleet.

“We’re building the most luxurious ship ever created, and our loyal guests and travel agent partners are eagerly awaiting detailed information about Seven Seas Explorer,” said Jason Montague, president and chief operating officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

“This dedicated microsite provides us with a platform to provide our passionate brand advocates with the latest updates and exciting developments surrounding this extraordinary new ship from now through launch.”

The one-stop portal for updates on the stunning 750-guest, all-suite, all-balcony ship, includes sections on milestones and events, yet-to-be announced inaugural season details and general news leading up to the summer 2016 maiden voyage. There is a dedicated section for Seven Seas Society members, the line’s loyalty program, where guests can register for priority reservation details pertaining to the ship’s inaugural season.

Reservations for Seven Seas Explorer’s maiden voyage and inaugural season open 19 January 2015 exclusively for Seven Seas Society members, and become widely available from 11 February 2015. For more information about Regent Seven Seas Cruises or to receive a brochure, guests can call Reservations on 023 8068 2280 or contact a specialist travel agent.

Cunard Line Names Richard Meadows President of Cunard Line - North America

Cunard announced today that Richard Meadows has been appointed President of Cunard Line - North America, assuming operating responsibility for the iconic Cunard brand throughout the North American continent from 1 December 2014. He will report to David Noyes, CEO, Cunard. Meadows will retain his role as President of Seabourn, leading business and global operations for the ultra-luxury cruise line.

“With Rick having worked on so many brands within the Carnival Corporation portfolio, we are eager to leverage his knowledge, experience and skills to advance the Cunard brand in North America,” said David Noyes, CEO, Cunard, from the line’s headquarters in Southampton. “His background in leading Seabourn is particularly valuable, as he understands

well the nuances of delivering superior service and enriching onboard experiences – the things that directly appeal to Cunard passengers. We are thrilled to have him join our team.”

As President of Cunard - North America and Seabourn, Meadows will give his full attention to these two celebrated luxury brands, focusing in particular on generating brand awareness, growing revenues and yields, advancing exceptional product innovation and providing unmatched passenger experiences. Under his leadership, Cunard and Seabourn will continue to create outstanding cruise experiences and lifetime memories for their passengers.

Meadows has held key positions at a number of Carnival Corporation & plc brands over his 29 year career with the group and has held the position of President of Seabourn since 2011.

During that time, he also has served as Executive Vice President, marketing, sales and guest programmes for Holland America Line, where he had global revenue responsibility. With his appointment as President of Cunard - North America, Meadows will gradually step away from Holland America Line to give his complete focus to his new role. “It is an incredible honour for me to help lead Cunard” said Meadows. “I am excited about the prospect of working closely with David and the Cunard management team to enhance how we deliver luxury on a grand scale to discerning travellers in this region of the world.”

Ponant Launches Fifth Ship Le Lyrial

Norwegian Cruise Line UK give Partners The Full Picture

PONANT’s fifth luxury cruise ship Le Lyrial, ordered from Fincantieri, was launched on October 23 at the Ancona shipyard in Italy. The ship is to be delivered in Spring 2015.

The ceremony was attended, amongst others,

by Jean-Emmanuel SAUVÉE, CEO of PONANT, Véronique SAADÉ, the company’s Deputy CEO, and the ship’s godmother Virginia GOHAGAN, Thomas P. GOHAGAN’s wife, CEO of Thomas P. Gohagan & Company, a long-standing travel partner of PONANT in the USA. After Le Boréal (2010), L’Austral (2011) and Le Soléal (2013), the launch of Le Lyrial concludes this unique series of four beautiful yachts loyal to the PONANT spirit.

Like her sisterships, Le Lyrial embodies a subtle atmosphere, a combination of luxury, intimacy and wellbeing which is the company’s signature.

The elegance of her exterior and interior lines and intimate size (only 122 staterooms and suites, compared to 132 in the sisterships) make her a rare and innovative ship on the cruise market, giving passengers the feeling they are on a private yacht.

FIVE-STAR INTIMACY AND REFINEMENT Designed by Jean-Philippe NUEL, the ship’s welcoming contemporary interior mirrors the company’s destinations and the blue light of the Vega star in the Lyra constellation from which Le Lyrial takes her name. Shades of blue combine the luminous delicate grey-blues of the Polar ice with splashes of turquoise from Mediterranean coves.

A UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT OF SOPHISTICATION AND COMFORT On board, everything has been done to respect everyone’s independence and tastes: two restaurants, two indoor bars, an outdoor bar, relaxation area on the pool deck, lounges, a theatre for talks, films and shows, a Spa and a gym, a library, an internet corner, an Internet space, a games area with Wii™ consoles, and everywhere intimate spaces where passengers can get together or relax in peace.

ONE DECK DEDICATED FOR THE FINEST SUITES Deck 6 on Le Lyrial boasts beautifully spacious suites, up to 54m2 for the Owner’s Suite which also has a private 12m2 balcony.

From Italy to Turkey via Croatia, Montenegro and Greece, Le Lyrial is small enough to reach the most emblematic and secret ports inaccessible to the big ships.

Norwegian Cruise Line is the first cruise line to adopt Zolv’s visual conversation platform; Full Picture. Developed over the last 18 months under the brand SalesAssist and gaining several innovation awards, Full Picture makes conversations come alive by sharing photos, videos and other visual assets alongside a standard phone call. Norwegian is adding Full Picture to its trade communications channels, taking agent development and training to the next level, and demonstrating its continuing commitment to supporting the trade.

With Full Picture, Norwegian can now have remote one-on-one, visual conversations, improving the frequency and quality of the product and promotion training that can be delivered by its business development team. Presenting visual content alongside existing telephone briefings now gives agents an even greater understanding of Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising® product and experience, and providing better insight into the ships’ facilities and life on–board. This in turn helps agents better advise their customers, providing the consumer with more confidence in choosing Norwegian and developing long term loyalty.

Nick Wilkinson, Director Business Development, UK, Ireland & Scandinavia at Norwegian said: “In a time where matching the right cruise and ship to the right customer continues to be of paramount importance, the technology of Full Picture fits the bill, putting the knowledge into the hands of the agents more quickly and efficiently.

He further added “We are thrilled to have cemented this partnership with Zolv, underlining our commitment to the travel trade under our trade advocacy philosophy, Partners First. This move also continues to demonstrate Norwegian’s position as a leader of innovation within the cruise industry and we look forward to further technological advances this partnership will bring.”

Jardine Mercer, Sales Manager at Zolv stated: “We are delighted to be working with Nick and the team at Norwegian. Like us, Norwegian is a forward thinking business and we are pleased that our products and services will assist them in their agent training processes. I’m confident our partnership will result in increased bookings for their agent partners.” She further added “We are also very excited that Norwegian is making their product and point of sale content available to anyone with a Full Picture subscription, so agents can start a visual conversation with their own customers.”

To mark the partnership Zolv have also given four licenses to the finalists of Norwegian’s “Cruising to Success” competition which is being run in conjunction with TTG. The four new-to-cruise agent finalists will receive training throughout the year culminating with an invitation to the Norwegian Escape inaugural celebrations in October 2015. The overall winner of the initiative will be the agent who generates the most bookings throughout the year and Full Picture will be a key selling tool, providing technology that will help deliver the wonderful and exciting world of Norwegian Cruise Line to these agents’ customers. To find out more about Full Picture, please visit the Zolv team at WTM at stand TT520.

‘Premiere Sailings’ of Holland America Line’s brand new ms Koningsdam to take place in the Mediterranean

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. completes acquisition of Prestige Cruises International, Inc.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq: NCLH) (the “Company”), a leading global cruise operator, today announced it has completed its previously-announced acquisition of Prestige Cruises International, Inc. (“Prestige”), the market leader in the upscale cruise segment and parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, in cash and stock for a total transaction consideration of $3.025 billion, including the assumption of debt.

When Holland America Line’s ms Koningsdam sets sail in February 2016, the ship will first head to the azure waters of the Mediterranean on a seven-day Premiere Voyage and then continue on a series of 12-day Premiere Sailings through early May 2016. The debut cruises will explore some of the region’s most popular capitals, culturally rich cities, charming villages and beautiful beaches. Bookings for the Premiere Voyage and Sailings open on 1 December 2014.

The 2,650-guest ship is scheduled for delivery by Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard in Italy on 15 February 2016. Following its repositioning to Civitavecchia (Rome), ms Koningsdam will sail a seven-day Premiere Voyage roundtrip from Civitavecchia, departing on 20 February 2016 and sailing to Dubrovnik, Croatia; Kérkira (Corfu) and Katakolon (Olympia), Greece; and Naples, Italy.

“Since we announced ms Koningsdam, guests have been anxiously awaiting itinerary details, so we’re pleased to share the spring Mediterranean season,” said Richard Meadows, Holland America Line’s executive vice president of sales, marketing and guest relations. “We have a very loyal following and we anticipate these cruises will fill up quickly, so I recommend booking early.”

Following the Premiere Voyage, from the end of February through to early May, ms Koningsdam will cruise a series of six 12-day Premiere Sailings on two alternating roundtrip itineraries from Civitavecchia. The first itinerary calls at Katakolon, Piraeus (Athens), Rhodes and Crete, Greece; Istanbul (overnight) and Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey; and Naples, Italy. The other itinerary visits Naples, Italy; Palermo, Sicily; Cagliari, Sardinia; Gibraltar, British Territory; and Cádiz, Málaga, Cartagena and Barcelona (overnight), Spain.

Holland America Line is working to finalise details on the ship’s summer and autumn 2016 cruises and information will be released in the coming months. Cruise fares on Premier Sailings begin at £699 per person, cruise only, based on two sharing.

Koningsdam represents a new Pinnacle Class of ship for Holland America Line. The vessel will debut several innovative concepts and new public spaces and venues, while still featuring popular features that guests associate with Holland America Line.

To bring a fresh vision to ms Koningsdam, Holland America Line is working with Adam D. Tihany, one of the world’s pre-eminent hospitality designers. Tihany joins distinguished maritime designer and architect Bjorn Storbraaten, who worked with Holland America Line on ms Eurodam and ms Nieuw Amsterdam. The two firms will create an interior that blends a fresh, contemporary styling in perfect harmony with the line’s renowned classic elegance.

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

With this acquisition, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. operates a portfolio of brands that span all market segments in the cruise industry, from contemporary to upper-premium to luxury. Each brand offers differentiated experiences in their respective segments. The Norwegian Cruise Line brand provides the freedom and flexibility of a resort-style vacation on board some of the most innovative ships in the industry with its unique Freestyle Cruising proposition. Oceania Cruises offers an upper premium experience with the finest cuisine at sea on its fleet of mid-sized ships, while Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the market leader in the luxury cruise segment and operates three award-winning, all-suite ships, with an additional ship on order for delivery in summer 2016.

Commenting on the closing of the acquisition, Kevin Sheehan, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., said, “While for years we have competed successfully with our one brand in an increasingly consolidated industry, our acquisition of Prestige creates a new cruise operator with a range of complementary offerings as diversified as any in the industry. We now shift our focus from planning for the successful integration of these organisations to the implementation phase, with an organisational structure that allows for the realisation of significant synergies while maintaining the integrity of the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands that have made each a success in their respective segment.”

Frank Del Rio, chief executive officer of Prestige Cruise Holdings, Inc., commented, “We’re excited to officially join the Norwegian family and ready to begin this next chapter as one united company. Together, we will further our brands’ position as leaders in the upper-premium and luxury cruise markets by continuing to deliver an exceptional onboard experience for our guests, and expand the reach of both Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises throughout the world.”

Emerald Waterways’ “Star-Ships” Named “Best New River Ships” In 2014 Cruise Critic Editors’ Pick Awards For USA and UK

Emerald Waterways, Europe’s first new river cruise company in six years, has been awarded the “Best New River Ships” designation in Cruise Critic’s 2014 Editors’ Picks Awards for their Emerald Star and Emerald Sky “Star-Ships.” Emerald will launch two more ships, the Emerald Dawn and Emerald Sun, in 2015. The Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards are chosen by Cruise Critic’s international team of editors, based on the lines and ships they feel best represent excellence in each of the designated categories.

cabin design that replaces the run-of-the-mill French balcony, common to most ships, with an indoor balcony complete with decked area and an ingenious open-air system. The system allows guests to push a button and the upper half of the floorto-ceiling panoramic window drops down to allow an open-air opportunity; top suites separate the balcony from the cabin with sliding doors. Ships also feature an onboard hairdresser, massage therapy room and fitness area.

“We put a lot of thought into designing and building innovative, deluxe river ships that create an unparalleled experience for our guests,” said Glen Moroney, founder and managing director of the Scenic Group, the parent company for Emerald Waterways. “We’re very proud and pleased that our never-ending efforts to raise the standards on European river ships has been recognized by Cruise Critic as they share a similar benchmark amongst the cruise review and information publications.”

Emerald Waterways will offer nine itineraries in 2015, including the 8-day, Nuremberg-to-Budapest “Danube Delights;” the 15-day “Splendours of Europe,” which travels the Rhine and the Danube from Amsterdam to Budapest; the 10-day “Enchantment of Eastern Europe,” which travels Eastern Europe via the Danube River through Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania; and the 8-day “Highlights of the Netherlands and Beauty of Belgium,” which begins and ends in Amsterdam and shows off this region at the height of spring, when the tulips are in bloom.

Emerald Waterway’s “Star-Ships” – Emerald Star and Emerald Sky – each carry 182 guests in 72 suites and 20 staterooms, including two built for solo occupancy. Unique items include an onboard heated swimming pool with a retractable roof, which transforms into a cinema in the evening; two restaurants: Reflections, the main dining room, and The Terrace for breakfast and lunch; and a new type of

As part of the Scenic Group, Emerald Waterways is backed by the award-winning expertise of the world’s leading luxury river cruise operator. Additional information can be found on Emerald Waterways’ website, www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk; or by calling the UK based call centre – 0800 270 7017.

Francis Riley Promoted To Senior Vice President, International; Takes On New Role Spanning Three Brands

Following the closing of Norwegian Cruise Line’s acquisition of Prestige Cruises International Inc., Francis Riley, most recently Norwegian’s vice president and general manager international, has been appointed to the newly created position of senior vice president, international spanning across three brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. In this role, Riley will be responsible for business development, marketing, and passenger services in all international markets, including the UK and Continental Europe, along with Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa regions. Riley will be relocating to the company’s Miami headquarters in order to oversee the global business. He will report to Andy Stuart, executive vice president of international for Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas.

As a result of the growth in the UK, Graham Sadler, currently Managing Director of Regent Seven Sea Cruises for UK, will now become Managing Director of the three combined brands for the UK. Graham will oversee the UK business and have a presence in the offices located in London and Southampton.

Sadler has led the Regent Seven Seas UK office since 2001.

Recognising his significant contribution in developing the Oceania brand in the UK and Europe over the past 10 years, the line’s current managing director, Bernard Carter, will remain responsible for Oceania’s UK and EU business. He will report into Sadler for UK business.

Holland America Line Names Orlando Ashford As President Holland America Line announced today that, effective from 1 December 2014, Orlando Ashford will join the company as president to lead the award-winning cruise line’s brand and business - including its fleet of 15 premium vessels carrying approximately 850,000 guests annually to all seven continents.

Ashford joins the company from Mercer, the global consulting leader in talent, health, retirement and investments, where he was president of the Talent Business Segment.

“We are fortunate to have Orlando join our team, bringing with him a career’s worth of global experience leading high-performance teams that helped innovate some of the most respected and well-known companies in the world,” said Stein Kruse, chief executive officer, Holland America Group. “I am confident that Orlando’s leadership will enable Holland America Line to build on its uncompromising Signature of Excellence commitment, to deliver a superior guest experience that will continue generating rave reviews from our guests, travel professionals and the industry alike.”

“Holland America Line is a remarkable and highly respected company that delivers exceptional experiences and indelible memories of joy and adventure to its guests,” said Ashford, newly appointed president of Holland America Line. “It’s a noble mission, and I am eager to get to work with this talented group of service-minded employees to unleash new ideas, while building on the success of this thriving global business.”

Ashford will oversee Holland America Line’s sales and marketing, revenue management, deployment and itinerary planning, public relations, hotel operations and strategy. He will report to Holland America Group CEO, Kruse, and will be part of the Group’s executive leadership team, alongside brand leaders Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises; Richard Meadows, president of Seabourn and president of Cunard North America; and Ann Sherry AO, chief executive officer, Carnival Australia. Ashford will relocate to the Holland America Line headquarters office in Seattle.

Prior to his role at Mercer, Ashford served as senior vice president, chief human resources and communications officer of Mercer’s parent company, Marsh & McLennan Companies. He has also held several other leadership roles during the course of his career, including group director of human resources for 90 countries in Eurasia and Africa for the Coca-Cola Company and vice president Corporate Center human resources and cultural transformation. Previously he was vice president of global human resources strategy and organisational development for Motorola, Inc. where he helped modernise the human resources function for the global tech leader.

Ashford’s recently published book, Talentism, addresses the global disconnect between available jobs – more than one-third of employers worldwide cannot fill all available jobs – and the estimated 202 million eligible workers who are unemployed worldwide.

Ashford examines how technology and human networks can help bridge the skills gap, improve business performance, and lead to the betterment of society at large.

Ashford is on the Board of Directors for a global manufacturing company ITT Corporation. He is among the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) 2013 and 2014 “Directorship 100,” and has been honored as a Purdue University School of Technology Distinguished Alumnus. An active community supporter, he is on the Board of Directors for the Executive Leadership Council, the preeminent membership organisation for the development of global black leaders, and for Streetwise Partners, an organisation that brings together low-income individuals and volunteer business professionals to develop workplace skills and employment networks.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Science degree in Organisational Leadership and Industrial Technology from Purdue University.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. Announces Fleet Expansion for Oceania Cruises in 2016

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq: NCLH announced a definitive agreement with Princess Cruises, Ltd. to purchase Ocean Princess for its newly acquired Oceania Cruises brand. The 684-passenger ship joins Oceania Cruises’ trio of award-winning sister ships Insignia, Regatta and Nautica.

The new addition will be named Sirena.

Upon delivery in March 2016, Sirena will immediately undergo a 35-day, $40 million refurbishment in Marseille, France to elevate the ship to the Oceania Cruises’ standard of elegance. Drawing on the recent transformation of Insignia as inspiration, the ship will feature Oceania Cruises’ renowned specialty dining restaurants, Toscana and Polo Grill, along with more recent additions to the fleet such as Baristas and the cook-to-order grill at Terrace Café.

The ship will welcome her first guests in late April 2016.

The addition of Sirena, along with the recently completed refurbishment of Insignia, Nautica and Regatta, demonstrates Oceania Cruises’ unwavering commitment to mid-size ships and destination orientated cruising. With Sirena, Oceania Cruises will expand the number and diversity of destination-rich itineraries offered, appealing to both seasoned world travelers and passionate cruisers.

“The acquisition of Sirena provides measured capacity growth based on the proven platform of Oceania Cruises’ highly regarded mid-size ships,” said Kevin Sheehan, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, parent company of Oceania Cruises. “Our belief in the Oceania Cruises brand and our commitment to its growing base of loyal guests were the rationale behind our decision to bring Sirena into the fleet.”

“The addition of Sirena opens up an entire array of new itinerary options for Oceania Cruises as we think about our deployment strategy,” added Kunal S. Kamlani, president and chief operating officer of Oceania Cruises. “The award-winning guest experience delivered on our ships, coupled with a collection of innovative itineraries that cater to new markets, will combine for an alluring siren song for both our current and future guests.”

Take a Fred. Olsen cruise to watch British double World Champion Lewis Hamilton defend his F1 title at the Monaco Grand Prix in 2015

Described as the highlight of the Formula One season, the Monaco Grand Prix is the race that every driver wants to win; so it is a treat for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ guests to be able to visit this top-class circuit first-hand, on Boudicca’s 15-nights D1511 ‘Film Stars & Fast Cars’ cruise around the south of France and Spain, sailing from Dover on 16th May 2015.

As part of Fred. Olsen’s pledge to take guests closer to the world’s best attractions, this unique cruise holiday offers a tour to this remarkable Grand Prix, when Boudicca calls at the stunning beachfront destination of Nice. This most exhilarating and challenging of races is always a memorable occasion, and guests will be able to experience the noise, speed, atmosphere and thrill of the circuit, where recently-crowned double World Champion Lewis Hamilton will be defending his title in 2015.

Fred. Olsen is offering guests a choice of two special tours packages, each offering a spectacular view of the big race: Grandstand K stretches from Tabac to the Swimming Pool section, and tickets for the Upper section guarantee a great view of this part of the circuit, as well as a view up to the Tunnel Exit. This is a great spot to see the impressive performance of the F1 cars as they corner at high speed between the unforgiving barriers.

Grandstand T is located in Monaco Harbour. With a large seating capacity, it enjoys a view of the straight section that follows the Swimming Pool Complex. Its location in front of the pits places guests at a key part of the track, and the big screen opposite follows the action on other parts of the circuit.

Prices for this ‘Cruise & Grand Prix’ package start from £2,148 per person, and include: • En-suite accommodation, all meals, tea and coffee, evening entertainment, daytime activities and on board leisure facilities • Return coach transfers from Nice to Monaco • Escort to and from the coach parking spot to the Grand Prix entrance gates • Race day tickets in your choice of Grandstand K or T • A picnic lunch • And even the essential earplugs!

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Announces Voyage Featuring PBS Talent and Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker Rory Kennedy

Regent Seven Seas Cruises will host Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Rory Kennedy for an exclusive preview of her latest project, Last Days In Vietnam, aboard Seven Seas Voyager during the 18-night Dynasties and Dragons sailing in Asia on 21 February 2015. The filmmaker will engage with guests during a question-and-answer session at the end of the screening and provide compelling insight into the making and significance of the film.

Kennedy’s documentary chronicles the chaotic final days of the Vietnam War as the North Vietnamese Army closes in on Saigon and the South Vietnamese resistance crumbles. As the U.S. readies to withdraw, a number of heroic Americans take matters into their own hands, engaging in unsanctioned and often makeshift operations in a desperate effort to save as many South Vietnamese lives as possible.

Continuing a longtime relationship with PBS, Artful Travelers is partnering with Regent Seven Seas Cruises on this exclusive enrichment series showcasing exceptional PBS programming and beloved personalities. The sailing will offer enlightening travel experiences with rare opportunities to meet and interact with

some of the nation’s most celebrated minds and admired media figures.

As the ship sails from the mystical city of Beijing to incredible ports in China, South Korea, Taiwan and Japan, guests will have the opportunity to join panel discussions, question-andanswer sessions and special presentations in the ship’s signature showplace, the Constellation Theatre. Additionally, private dinners and cocktail receptions will take place during the voyage allowing guests to enjoy one-on-one conversations and personal interactions with the guest presenters.

Scheduled guests to appear on this voyage include: • Rory Kennedy, Emmy Award-winning independent documentary filmmaker (Last Days In Vietnam and American Hollow).

• Steven Johnson, Noted author, technology expert and host of PBS’ How We Got to Now with Steven Johnson.

• Mark Bailey, Emmy Award-nominated screenwriter and best-selling author (Of All The Gin Joints: Stumbling Through Hollywood History and Last Days In Vietnam).

• Lauren Prestileo, Series Manager of the acclaimed PBS series American Experience.

These special activities are available to guests at no additional cost. At the time of booking, guests or their travel agents need to request the promotional code “ARTFUL” to be added to the guest’s reservation.

For more information about Regent Seven Seas Cruises visit www.rssc.com or call Reservations on 023 8068 2280 or contact a specialist travel agent.

Cunard auctions off one-off oil painting in aid of The Princes Trust One of the UK’s most prestigious maritime artists has helped Cunard raise over £3,000 for The Prince’s Trust, after auctioning off a one-off oil painting produced during Queen Mary 2’s transatlantic crossing to New York.

The project titled, ‘Atlantic Splendour’ was executed in oils by renowned maritime artist, Robert Lloyd and depicts Queen Mary 2 cutting through the waves during her transatlantic route. Robert spent each morning of the seven night crossing in the Grand Lobby where passengers were able to watch the masterpiece come to life and ask questions about his work.

The painting was auctioned on the final day of the crossing in the Queens Room for $4,600, and the artist donated a further sketch which sold for $700 making a grand total of £3,400 for The Prince’s Trust.

Robert said, “It has been such a pleasure working on this project in such a grand setting as Queen Mary 2 herself.

Concentrating on the painting and talking to the guests looks easier than it is, but I’ve loved the challenge and I’m thrilled we’ve been able to raise so much money for The Prince’s Trust.”

Robert’s association with Cunard Line started after a meeting with Liverpool-born retired Commodore Ron Warwick. Since then he has completed around a dozen paintings for Cunard,

sailing on board QE2 and Queen Mary 2 on special celebration voyages, painting works featuring the ships.

In less than seven years, Cunard, now Platinum Ambassadors for The Prince’s Trust has raised over £1 million as it works to turn around the lives of disadvantaged young people in the UK. The Trust gives young people practical and financial support, developing key workplace skills, confidence and motivation. It works with 14 to 30 year olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law.

Angus Struthers, Marketing Director for Cunard, said, “I’d like to thank Robert for joining us on board Queen Mary 2, for what has been a fantastic project. Cunard have been proud supporters of The Prince’s Trust since 2007 and this is just another example of how committed we are to ensuring we raise a further £1 million for the young people, which it so devotedly supports by 2018.”

River Cruise Line’s Movember Mo’ket!

The men of the River Cruise Line have gone moustache mad for Movember, with Sales and Mo’keting Director Steve Goodenough and Sales & Business Development Mo’nager Tim Fleming leading the challenge to grow upper-lip hair to raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK. As part of the Diamond Holidays group, the River Cruise Line is in good company in the Leicestershire town where the travel operator is based. Market Harborough officially changed its name to Mo’Ket Harborough for the entire month of November.

The town sign and logo have sprouted moustaches, cars sported plastic ‘tashes and special edition beers and gin have been created by local businesses. Diamond Holidays added a moustache to their logo and changed their job titles to fully embrace the Movember campaign.

River Cruise Line’s Mo’keting Director Steve Goodenough says, “When we heard that Market Harborough was officially changing its name to Mo’ket Harborough for the month of November we were easily persuaded to join in and raise money for Prostate Cancer UK. Despite various comments and jokes around the office and whilst out and about at meetings.....as well as at home....8 of us in the company managed to stay the distance. We are still collecting sponsorship but hope the final total to be close to £500, and all further donations are welcome.”

Now Movember is over the River Cruise Line team are now need some extra support so please take a look at this line-up of The River Cruise Line Moustachios! and give generously. Thanks in anticipation of your support for this worthy cause.

MSC Cruises Wins Award For “Best M.I.C.E. Cruise Company Middle East”

New ports of call for Thomson Cruises in Winter 2015 NEW PLANS FOR THOMSON DREAM From winter 2015, Thomson Dream will showcase the unique offering of Cuba with its exciting new Cuban Revolution itinerary.

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

MSC Cruises has been named Business Destinations magazine’s 2014 Best MICE Cruise Company in the Middle East, in a poll of business travellers around the world.

The annual Business Destinations awards are conferred by a cross-section of travel executives and high-end commuters from Fortune 500 companies, MICE solution providers and other influential figures from the business travel community.

The Best M.I.C.E. Cruise Company, Middle East accolade recognizes MSC Cruises’ focus on providing Middle East cruise itineraries with top quality solutions for business travellers and corporate events.

MSC Cruises makes every effort to meet the needs of business travellers in the Middle East, who are increasingly seeking unexplored ways to meet and network. MSC Cruises offers state-of-the-art onboard conference facilities, and a specialist M.I.C.E. team with special expertise in marketing, branding, planning and logistics, to ensure the success of corporate events.

Antonio Paradiso, MSC Cruises Executive Director Emerging Markets said: “To have our M.I.C.E. services in the Middle East recognized by the industry is very gratifying, since this is an area we’re focusing on. We’ve added four new itineraries to our offer in Dubai and the Emirates for the 2014-2015 cruise season and positioned the 2,500-guest MSC Orchestra in the region. She’s a beautiful ship and perfectly equipped to meet the needs of our guests and business travellers.”

He added: “Growing awareness of Dubai and a new multientry visa system implemented by the UAE that makes multi-stop cruises in the region easier and more costeffective, are driving interest. Today, business travellers find Dubai more attractive than ever and we’re ready to help them create corporate events they can be proud of.”

During the 2014-2015 winter season, MSC Orchestra sets sail from the ultramodern port of Dubai on a heading for UAE capital Abu Dhabi, before calling at Khor Fakkan then Oman’s capital Muscat, one of the largest ports in the world, and finally Khasab. Dubai will also be the departure port for the first MSC Grand Voyage to Australia, when MSC Orchestra will weigh anchor for an epic 33-night journey covering India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia and Australia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Helen Caron, Managing Director for Thomson Cruises, says: “I’m delighted that we are able to introduce some exciting new ports for our second season with two ships in the Caribbean. Cuba is a fantastic destination and one that our customers tell us they want to visit more, so I am sure the itinerary centred around the island will prove extremely popular.”

Britannia to serve up the largest selection of British beers at sea

Where will you find an Orchard Pig Reveller side by side with a Knight of the Garter? A Rutland Panther sitting next to a Black Sheep?

Or a Speyside Oak Aged Blonde rubbing shoulders with Admiral Lord Collingwood?

You’ll find all of these - plus many more interesting beers, ales and ciders - on Brodie’s Great British Beer Menu on P&O Cruises newest ship Britannia when it launches next March.

The Great British Beer Menu features 70 different bottled beers, ales and ciders from 56 UK counties including pilsners, ales, stouts, gluten-free beer and speciality beers such as Chocolate Tom from Robinson’s Brewery in Cheshire, Ginger Hare from Bath Ales in Somerset and Orange Peel from the Wadsworth Brewery in Wiltshire.

P&O Cruises spent months scouring the UK to source this selection of beers both from smaller, local, artisan brewers such as Windsor & Eton Brewery (Berkshire), Elgoods Brewery (Cambridge), Whitewater Brewery (Belfast), Fyne Ales (Dumbarton), Felinfoel Brewery (Pembrokeshire), Okell`s (Isle of Man) and the Hilden Brewing Company (County Antrim) as well as renowned breweries including Marstons (West Midlands), Greene King (Suffolk), Belhaven (Dumfries), Fullers (London), Theakstons (North Yorkshire), Brew Dog (Aberdeen) and Hall & Woodhouse (Dorset).

P&O Cruises marketing director Christopher Edgington said: “The UK boasts more breweries per head of population than any other country in the world with the industry growing at over 10% each year. This new beer menu celebrates the growing popularity of traditionally made British beers and ciders and reflects our aim of showcasing the very best that Britain has to offer.”

The Great British Beer Menu is available in Brodie’s, a classic pub which is named after one of the founders of P&O Cruises, Brodie McGhie Wilcox. A great place to meet with friends, relax with a beer or glass of wine, Brodie’s offers a variety of entertainment including quizzes, live music and karaoke as well as poker and roulette tables in the adjoining casino.

AmaWaterways’ supports agents with river cruise initiatives River cruise line AmaWaterways, acclaimed by the 2014 Berlitz River Cruise Guide as having the best ships in Europe, has launched a programme of initiatives for travel agents in which it aims to fulfil a `consultative’ approach on behalf of the river cruise industry.

Included in a new and proactive approach to helping agents sell river cruises is a series of webinars, presented by AmaWaterways’ Business Development Manager Paul Sharp, presented via CLIA. The webinars are available to individual travel agencies on request.

The line is also offering agents information about destinations, trends, tips on how to sell river cruises, and footage of ships, via `Ama TV’, a series of 10 – 15 minute programmes showcased on YouTube and available for viewing via www.amawaterways. co.uk. Presented through ‘on the sofa’ interviews and dialogue, Ama TV also includes clips of destinations and ships, and is designed to assist agents to gain better product knowledge of the industry, the rivers, the destinations and shore excursions.

In a third new initiative, AmaWaterways is partnering with other cruise lines to offer travel agents afternoon and evening presentations to clients. The lines bring refreshments to agents’ premises and host events lasting from one to two hours, during which invited members of the public can gain a better understanding of the cruise industry and the products offered by AmaWaterways and partners that include Star Clippers and other niche cruise lines.

Paul Sharp said “River cruising is going through considerable growth at the moment and travel agents are advised to keep ahead of what’s going on in the industry as this is a huge commercial opportunity for them.

AmaWaterways’ owners have been at the forefront of the development of river cruising for the past ten years and we want to ensure that agents are not just inundated with price-led incentives, but are helped to really understand and optimise the opportunities that are there to sell river cruises.

This is why we have invested in our web and TV based presentations and why we still feel it is so important to bring our product into the agencies themselves, right to the target customers”.

For information about in-agency presentations or to find out about Webinars, please contact pauls@amawaterways.co.uk or natalie@amawaterways.co.uk

Emerald Waterways launch biggest ever TV ad campaign on Christmas day Emerald Waterways, Europe’s newest river cruise line, are embarking on their biggest ever television ad campaign at the start of 2015.

The multi-channel advert launches on Christmas day before the Queen’s speech and will run throughout January. Featuring a voiceover by India Fisher, it showcases the unique experience and incredible inclusions enjoyed by guests on-board Emerald Waterways’ cutting-edge Star-Ships, which were recently voted ‘Best New River Ship’ in the Cruise Critic Editors’ Pick Awards 2014.

Backed by a ¼ million pound investment, the advert also promotes their January Sale in which guests are entitled to save £1,000 per couple when they book their European river cruise by 30th January 2015.

With over 80% of spaces on-board 2015 cruises already sold out, Emerald Waterways have released new dates and availability on their popular Danube Delights cruise. What’s more, to accommodate exceptional demand, they have also created a new Rhine-Main Discovery cruise that sets sail next summer.

With more amenities and state-of-the-art features than any other river cruise line, Emerald Waterways’ innovative ‘Star-Ships’ are making heads turn by setting a new standard in river ship design. Take a look for yourself on their 360° virtual ship tour which can be viewed at www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk/our-ships/360-tour. Full details on the ships and itineraries can be found online at www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk Keep an eye out for Emerald Waterways’ television advert on channels including ITV, ITV3, More4, Yesterday, Gold and Sky Atlantic.

Spring Cruising Aboard Luxury Hotel Barge ‘La Belle Epoque’ in 2015 Emotive exploration of the French and Belgium World War One Battlefields European Waterways is offering four, all-inclusive ‘World War One Commemorative Cruises’ in April 2015 aboard its 12-passenger hotel barge La Belle Epoque, on a cruise route that passes right through the battlefields of Northern France.

These special cruises, departing April 5, 12, 19 and 26, will be along the Canal du Nord, between Lille and Compiègne and on the Canal de la Somme between Villers-Bretonneux and Compiègne. Both these waterways were at the centre of battles during the conflict and the cruises will feature excursions to some of the most significant sites and memorials in Flanders and the Somme, such as: • • • • •

The Menin Gate in Ypres for the very moving Last Post ceremony.

Vimy Ridge, site of the Canadian National Memorial, Canada’s largest overseas memorial.

The Thiepval memorial, a heart-rending monument to 75,000 missing soldiers who fell during the Battle of the Somme.

The forest clearing at Compiègne where the Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918.

The Anzac Dawn Service at 5am on April 25 at the Australian National War Memorial.

Each cruise has a carefully planned itinerary and is led by a knowledgeable tour guide. The excursion programmes will have some flexibility built in to allow, where possible, guests of different nationalities to visit sites of particular significance to their own countries.

For more information on pricing, cruises and schedules on these barges and more, please visit www.gobarging.com, email sales@gobarging.com or call 01753 598555

Holland America Line’s new ms Koningsdam to feature new single and family staterooms

When ms Koningsdam debuts in 2016, the ship will feature Holland America Line’s first-ever purpose-built staterooms for families as well as single staterooms among its 1,331 guest accommodations, with a total capacity of 2,650. In addition, many familiar stateroom categories such as Neptune, Signature and Vista suites will be available in a wider range of sizes and there will be different configurations to choose from.

square feet with a bedroom, living room, dining area, dressing room and private veranda with whirlpool. The two Neptune Spa Suites and 43 Neptune Suites range from a generous 465 to a huge 855 square feet. Neptune and Pinnacle Suite guests have access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private place to relax, socialise with other suite guests and enjoy the personalised service of a concierge. The fleet-wide lounges provide worktables, a large screen television, library, sofas and chairs, and complimentary refreshments throughout the day.

Pinnacle and Neptune Suite amenities also include corsages and boutonnieres for the first formal night, a cocktail party with the ship’s officers, priority dining and seating requests, binoculars and umbrellas for use during the cruise, a wall-unit bar, cold hors d’oeuvres served before dinner each evening on request and complimentary laundry, ironing and dry cleaning throughout the cruise.

The 32 new specially designed family ocean-view staterooms will range from 222 to 231 square feet and feature two bathrooms and accommodation for five people. The 12 single ocean-view cabins will range from 127 to 172 square feet in size and will be available on multiple decks at a variety of forward, mid-ship and aft locations.

The 14 Signature Suites are up to 400 square feet in size and the 104 Vista Suites range from 260 to 356 square feet. Signature and Vista suite guests receive their own special extras, including personalised cruise stationery, oversized bath towels, fresh flowers, a pillow menu, mini bar and one-touch phone concierge service.

“A cruise is one of the most popular ways to travel as a family, and we continue to welcome more multigenerational groups each year. To help us better serve families, we are pleased to be able to offer these tailored staterooms on ms Koningsdam,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, sales, marketing and guest programs. “And the new one-person staterooms enable us to serve the growing market of solo travellers.”

“Holland America Line is known in the cruise industry for providing well-appointed staterooms,” said My Nguyen, Holland America Line’s deputy director of interior design. “With ms Koningsdam we enhanced these qualities by including many thoughtful details that improve the functionality of the staterooms. We also adopted a colour pallet that takes advantage of texture and quiet colour combinations to achieve a feeling of serenity and luxuriousness in each category.”

With a sophisticated colour palette and designs based on guest feedback, ms Koningsdam’s staterooms and suites feature a host of modern functional details such as bedside USB ports, custom casework and frameless glass shower doors that feel elegant and luxurious.

Additional amenities found in all suites and staterooms include Holland America Line’s signature Mariner’s Dream bed with finely woven cotton linens, plush bathrobes for use during the voyage, a premium massage showerhead, flat-panel TV with video-on-demand, mini fridge, complimentary fresh fruit on request and toiletries from Elemis Aromapure.

On ms Koningsdam, the “suite life” gets sweeter with larger, more luxurious cabins. A Pinnacle Suite is an expansive 1,290

The ship will have the most staterooms with verandas in the Holland America Line fleet with 912 in total from Veranda to Pinnacle Suite categories. Guests looking to focus on health and wellness during the cruise can book veranda spa accommodations, conveniently located near the Greenhouse Spa & Salon that come with yoga mats for use during the voyage and an iPod docking station.

For guests looking for a more affordable option, the line is offering 266 standard or large interior accommodations at up to 225 square feet in size.

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

Meet The Fleet comprehensive guide to the worlds cruise ships

29

584

SHIPS USE BRITISH POUND STERLING AS THEIR PRIMARY ONBOARD CURRENCY,

WITH 161 USING UNITED STATES DOLLARS

41 35

65 1000 have over

ultra luxury ships

CREW

onboard

have solariums

41

small

42

medium

139

large

BOUTIQUE

SHOPS

168 OFFER SUITES

15

offer SINGLE cabins

9

offer

ICE skating onboard

HAVE theatres

21

125

AND NURSERIES

ONBOARD

43 OFFER JUST BABYSITTING

while

2000 5

18 have celebrity tie-ins

113

222

offer in cabin

BABYSITTING

ships have received a refit since

23

70

ships have nurseries

SHIPS OFFER

ships have launched since

2013

SPECIALITY RESTAURANTS WITH COVER CHARGES 168 OFFER SUITES

ships have SUSHI restaurants,

7

offering other

Japanese-style restaurants

ships allow SMOKING in designated areas only, while

0

180 11

ships on the system have outright banned smoking. cruiseexperts.org.uk

SHIPS HAVE

7

146 don’t provide ANY FACILITIES FOR

TODDLERS

offer

bakeries and pastry shops

KIDS FACILITIES, CAN PROVIDE THEM DEPENDING ON THE ITINERARY

54 capacity

ships have a passenger of over

3000

Wild beauty! Hurtigruten unveils new products and brochure for Summer 2015 Hurtigruten has launched three new flight-inclusive packages for Summer 2015. The company’s Classic Voyages continue to be bookable as packages including direct charter flights during the Winter months. However, it is the first time that the voyages have been pre-packaged with scheduled flights for the Summer programme.

Southern Sights – The Voyage South A new 8 day ‘Southern Sights’ itinerary includes scheduled flights, transfers, 2 nights on bed and breakfast basis in Oslo and a six day Voyage South on full –board basis. Prices start from £1,084 per person departing on a choice of dates in April or October from London Heathrow.

Northern Soul – The Voyage North The seven day Voyage North is now available, pre-packaged with scheduled flights and transfers, along with the voyage on full board basis. Prices start from £955 per person on a choice of dates in April 2015 from London Heathrow.

The Classic Round Voyage There are now a number of dates when the Classic Round Voyage had been packaged up with scheduled flights from Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Bristol, Glasgow and Cardiff.

Prices including the flights and voyage on full board basis plus transfers, start from £1,189 per person.

Free lounge access is included for departures from London Airports.

The itineraries have been showcased in a new 12 page brochure, also featuring highlights of the previously announced explorer voyages around Spitsbergen on MS Nordstjernen. The ship returns to the Hurtigruten portfolio having been chartered for the Summer 2015 season.

All prices are based on two people sharing an inside cabin. For more information call Hurtigruten on tel: 0208 846 2647 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk/agents

CLIA Releases Initial Asia Cruise Trends Findings The newly-formed Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) bodies in Southeast and North Asia today released initial findings from the new Asia Cruise Trends Project: “Analysis, Assessment, Appreciation.” The work follows on from the 2013 Asia Cruise Association White Paper: “Information, Intelligence, Insights.” Both projects have been conducted by CHART Management Consultants, a global expert in cruise tourism and strategy.

The new project provides today a comprehensive view of the cruise industry throughout Asia in 2015 with trends in deployment and capacity since 2013. Detail on ports-of-call and destinations visited in all Asia destinations will be released shortly. Finally, the effort intends to provide the first ever analysis of the size of 12 Asian passenger source markets with data consolidated directly from cruise operators.

Ms. Christine Duffy, president and CEO of CLIA said, “The cruise industry continues to grow rapidly in Asia and many cruise lines are deploying more capacity in the region, including some of the most modern cruise ships. CLIA decided to undertake an analysis of hard data on the size of Asia cruise source markets – the first of its kind – because cruise lines and many cruise industry stakeholders are keen to better understand the trends, source market size and the potential for growth in this vibrant and exciting region.”

Commenting on the findings released today Ms. Ann Sherry, Chair of CLIA Southeast Asia said, “The scale of cruising in Asia and its growth over these three short years is remarkable. Next year will see 26 cruise brands operate 52 ships in Asia, nine of which are year-round.”

“In 2013 there were 802 Asia-Asia cruises, in 2015, we will see 981,” she continued. “But the growth in capacity is even more impressive, driven by increasingly large and modern ships being deployed. Last year, in 2013, there was capacity for 1.4 million guests to take Asia-Asia cruises, next year there will be room for 2.05 million, an annual growth of 19.5 percent.”

“On top of that, another 115,360 guests may transit through Asia on longer voyages, up 25 percent per annum from the 73,616 capacity in 2013,” she observed.

“It is insightful to see where the growth is occurring,” said Dr. Zinan Liu, Chair of CLIA North Asia. “The project reveals that days deployed in East Asia are growing 20.5 percent annually and in Southeast Asia 10 percent. Deployment in South Asian destinations, which account for just 6 percent of the total, is growing at 34 percent per annum.”

“The work has also revealed capacity, deployment and growth by ship type and for each of the 26 brands covered by the project,” Dr. Liu added. “It separates cruise activity by brand into four tiers. Three participating CLIA Member cruise lines in Tier 1, Star Cruises, Costa Crociere, and Royal Caribbean, have over 100 sailings in 2015 and about 25 percent each of total passenger capacity in Asia. Participating CLIA Member cruise lines in Tier 2, Princess Cruises and Celebrity, operate 25 or more cruises and voyages. The eight brands in Tier 3 operate nine or more annually, and Tier 4 offer eight sailings or less.”

“Asia is, of course, dominated by short duration cruises,” Ted Blamey, CHART Principal, explained. “We report that cruises under one week account for 81 percent of all those offered in 2015. The 2- to 3-night duration is largest in total with 425 cruises next year. The 4- to 6-night duration is growing fastest, up from 263 to 367 cruises in two years.”

“But there are certainly many opportunities for international guests to cruise Asia that suit their travel patterns,” Mr. Blamey pointed out.

“There are 162 cruises between 7 and 14 days offered in 2015, and 27 cruises longer than that. Asia has something for everyone, even though much of the activity is focused on the short-vacation local market.”

Murray Walker congratulates Lewis Hamilton on board Cunard’s Queen Victoria Legendary Formula One commentator, Murray Walker was one of the first to congratulate Lewis Hamilton on his second F1 world title yesterday, after arriving in Southampton on board Cunard’s Queen Victoria.

The 91-year-old motor sport legend watched the final stages of the 2014 FIA Formula One world championship in luxury this year, as a guest Insight speaker on board the luxurious Queen Victoria. After completing his fourteen night cruise, ‘Canary Islands Explorer with Murray Walker,’ which explored some of the most stunning islands in the Canaries, Walker was one of the first to congratulate the British world champion: “It’s been another absolutely wonderful season and Lewis Hamilton is world champion, not for the first time but for the second time!

“Lewis Hamilton richly deserves the reward of being world champion. Mind you, Nico Rosberg would have deserved the reward too; he’s been almost as good as Lewis Hamilton this season, but not quite. A British driver winning first place in the F1world championship, what could be better than that.”

As one of Cunard’s most popular Insight speakers, Walker entertained guests over the fourteen night cruise with anecdotes from his worldwide travels and ‘Magical Monaco’ as he discussed his days as the BBC’s favourite F1 commentator. However, it hasn’t been all work for the national treasure who still managed to find time to relax on board Queen Victoria while sharing his motor sport expertise: “I’ve travelled on Queen Victoria before so I know what a lovely ship it is. However, I haven’t been on her for a while, so when my wife and I decided we wanted to get some sunshine we thought this cruise to the Canary Islands would suite us perfectly. We’ve had fourteen wonderful nights!”

When asked what his favourite part of the cruise was, Walker had no hesitation: “I think the Grill experience has been wonderful. The restaurant area is extremely nice and the staff have been absolutely terrific, great fun and they looked after us extremely well. I also have to say that for someone who does quite a lot of talking, I have really enjoyed the talks I have done as an Insight speaker. The Royal Court Theatre was full every time, and it’s enormously warming when you walk out on stage and you see every seat occupied, because it means people really are interested in what you have to say.”

Angus Struther’s Cunard’s Marketing Director was thrilled the popular guest speaker enjoyed his time on Queen Victoria as this pivotal time in British motor sport history: “It goes without saying that Murray Walker is a motor sport legend and a national treasure. We have been so privileged to have him on board Queen Victoria during this crucial stage of the F1 World Championship. He is always incredibly popular but at this crucial stage of the F1 title, he has been busier than ever. The only thing left to say is congratulations to our British F1 world champion, Lewis Hamilton who had us all on the edge of our seats yesterday.”

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. appoints Jason Montague President and Chief Operating Officer for Prestige Cruise Holdings Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. announced today that Jason Montague has been named President and Chief Operating Officer of Prestige Cruise Holdings, Inc. effective today, following the resignation of Kunal S. Kamlani. Montague was instrumental in launching Oceania Cruises in 2002 and is widely regarded as one of the original co-founders of the company.

“As we continue to refine the future organisation, Jason stands out as a leader who is knowledgeable about the brands and is so passionate about them,” said Kevin Sheehan, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “Jason’s financial background also aligns well with our corporate culture and strong focus on financial discipline.”

Prestige Cruise Holdings, Inc. Chief Executive Officer Frank Del Rio noted that Montague had played a key part in creating the great brands that have been built at Prestige. “We are confident that both the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands will continue to prosper and grow with Jason at the helm,” said Del Rio. Most recently, Montague served as Executive Vice President and Chief Integration Officer for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. Prior to the acquisition of Prestige, he served as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Prestige Cruise Holdings, Inc. During his twelve year tenure, he helped Del Rio launch Oceania Cruises in 2002 and has seen the company through the purchase of its initial three R-class vessels, the equity investment by Apollo Management, the acquisition and integration of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the financing and delivery of Oceania Cruises’ Marina and Riviera new builds and the recent acquisition by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “I am truly excited to take the helm of these two amazing brands which have had so much success and have such a bright future ahead,” said Montague. “I look forward to building relationships with the travel agent community, delivering an exceptional product for our loyal guests, and engaging our hard-working team members.”

Prior to joining Oceania Cruises, Montague operated a successful consulting practice focused on strategic planning and development of small to medium-sized companies. Previously, he held the position of Vice President Finance for Alton Entertainment Corporation, a brand equity marketer who was majority owned by the Interpublic Group of Companies. Montague holds a BBA in Accounting from the University of Miami.

Local skills agreement for Dover signed The Port of Dover and East Kent College have signed an important agreement, which will see them strengthen the local economy and deliver exciting career prospects for young people in Dover.

The Memorandum of Understanding, signed by Tim Waggott, Chief Executive at the Port of Dover and Graham Razey, Principal of East Kent College, focuses on how to develop the skills of local people to support the ongoing development and future success of the Port.

The Port of Dover, as the major local employer, and East Kent College will now work closely to identify the skills needed by Europe’s busiest ferry port and its customers. Once the skills issues have been identified, the two organisations will develop joint training programmes.

The agreement also focuses on the future skills required as part of Dover Western Docks Revival, a key transformational project bringing 600 new jobs, so the training can be put in place for local people to benefit from this significant opportunity.

Graham Razey, Principal of East Kent College, said: “Since taking on the Dover campus from the former K College, and establishing a base at Discovery Park, we have worked hard to get to know the local business community and better understand their needs in terms of skills and training.

“It is clear from our conversations with Tim and his colleagues that we have a shared vision for a stronger, more dynamic Dover economy with a greater emphasis on matching the skills needs of business with the vocational skills we are helping to deliver, particularly those of the Port.

“This agreement is the first of what we hope will be a series of strategic alliances with the major businesses that are driving the economy of Dover, Shepway and Thanet forward.”

Given the Port’s current and future importance to the country’s freight and logistics industry, the agreement has identified the need to consider developing Dover into a nationally recognised centre of excellence for logistics training as one of its priorities.

Tim Waggott, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover, added: “Our plans for the revival of the Western Docks have been warmly welcomed by local residents and businesses. This agreement will help ensure that local people will be able to gain the necessary skills and be well placed to benefit from the future growth of the port.

“As we invest in our future and that of Dover, there will be a greater demand for appropriately skilled people and we need to ensure that we can continue to and increasingly recruit them locally to support our growth. This agreement is therefore extremely important in ensuring our collective ability to help strengthen the economy of Dover, and East Kent more widely.”

As part of the collaboration, the Port and East Kent College will explore opportunities to develop high quality facilities for the delivery of the programmes, either at East Kent College’s Dover campus or at the Port. There will also be collaboration on funding bids and projects to increase the investment in skills that supports the efficient running of the Port’s operations.

Through the programme, East Kent College students will have the opportunity to undertake a range of work placement and experience opportunities at the Port, with the aim of ensuring there are increased employment opportunities for local students.

AmaWaterways launches new river cruise destination

In an advance preview of its 2016 Europe and Asia luxury river cruise programme, AmaWaterways has announced the inclusion of a new 7 night sailing through Bordeaux for the first time, with 22 embarkation dates between March and November 2016.

The new `Taste of Bordeaux’ itinerary along the River Garonne and the Dordogne is on board the 148-guest luxury river cruise ship AmaDolce, with special interest wine tours, presentation and tastings at some of south west France’s most renowned vineyards and an optional Cognac tasting tour.

Seven of the scheduled departures are designated `In Celebration of Wine’ theme cruises, when experienced wine hosts and wine producers will be on board to present and guide guests as to how to taste, choose and appreciate wine.

All tours, presentations and excursions are included within the cruise fare, which also includes all meals, wine / soft drinks / beer with lunch and dinner, free wifi and complimentary use of on board bicycles.

The new Taste of Bordeaux cruises cost from £xxxx per person, based on two sharing a stateroom, including port taxes, excluding travel.

For more information about AmaWaterways’ luxury river cruises contact AmaWaterways on freephone 0808 223 5009 or visit www.amawaterways.co.uk

Norwegian Cruise Line sets sail for exclusive partnership with Margaritaville®

Norwegian Escape to prominently feature Jimmy Buffett’s celebrated eatery, the first location at sea, along with 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar and waterfront music venue Cruisers should get their Fins Up and shakers of salt ready, as the first-ever floating Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville restaurant and 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar will soon set sail onboard the all-new Norwegian Escape. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq: NCLH) Chief Executive Officer Kevin Sheehan announced the news at a company-wide event, with the help of a very special guest – the legendary Jimmy Buffett who performed for the crowd. Norwegian’s exclusive partnership with Margaritaville Holdings LLC extends to Norwegian’s island destinations including the new Harvest Caye in Belize and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, as well as other ships in the fleet.

“Jimmy Buffett is an icon who embodies the island lifestyle and his Margaritaville lifestyle brand which includes restaurants and bars in its portfolio is a perfect fit for Norwegian Cruise Line and the incredible new Norwegian Escape, that will sail the Caribbean and offer our guests the first and only Margaritaville experience at sea,” said Sheehan. “We are more than thrilled to form this exclusive partnership with Jimmy and his talented team and we know our guests are going to love the new tropical experiences.”

Margaritaville’s iconic name brings to mind the desire in everyone to kick back and escape the everyday, if only for a few hours or days. Norwegian Escape’s Margaritaville restaurant and bar will embody that essence of escapism with a laid back atmosphere inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett. Nostalgic island moments will come to life with a menu that invites guests to take a bite out of paradise with signature items like the Cheeseburger in Paradise and Who’s to Blame Margarita. This venue will be one of Norwegian Escape’s many complimentary dining outlets. In addition to the restaurant, Norwegian Escape will feature the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar, a music venue and outdoor bar on The Waterfront. The 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar will feature live nightly performances

so guests can enjoy the sounds of the tropics while sipping a signature margarita or “boat drink” and gazing out to the beautiful Caribbean Sea. “This partnership is a perfect match between two brands that celebrate escapism, relaxing and having fun,” said John Cohlan, chief executive officer of Margaritaville. “Opening our first Margaritaville at Sea on Norwegian Escape will be a huge milestone for our company. We can’t wait to bring the Margaritaville experience to Norwegian guests and let the floating ‘fin’ begin!”

Along with the venues on Norwegian Escape, the partnership also includes Margaritaville branded food and beverage locations on Norwegian’s new island destination in Harvest Caye, Belize, set to open in autumn 2015 and a 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar on Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, planned to also debut in 2015. In the future, the partnership will extend to other ships in the fleet.

Norwegian Escape will begin weekly seven-night cruises from her year-round homeport of Miami to the Eastern Caribbean beginning on 14 November 2015. The ship will be the largest to home port year-round in Miami, carrying 4,200 guests to tropical Caribbean destinations including St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas.

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

Carnival Cruise Lines To Offer Series of Series of Unique Longer Length Voyages In 2015-16 Carnival Cruise Lines will offer a series of unforgettable 10- to 14-day voyages on six different ships in 2015-16 that feature extended calls at glorious destinations throughout the Caribbean, Bermuda, Mexican Riviera and The Bahamas.

Reservations opened today on 11 different voyages offered on Carnival Miracle, Carnival Dream, Carnival Glory and Carnival Sunshine which depart from five convenient U.S. homeports and visit more than 24 tropical destinations, including less travelled ports like Bonaire, Martinique, Dominica, Grenada and, for the first time on a Carnival ship, Trinidad & Tobago. Several of the 10- and 11-day voyages can be combined into three-week-long Caribbean adventures providing an unmatched combination of breath-taking ports of call, amazing experiences ashore, and fun-filled days at sea, all at an incredible value.

These new voyages are in addition to a previously announced series of nine 10- to 14-day departures to the Caribbean and Bermuda offered on Carnival Triumph and Carnival Pride in 2015-16.

Terry Thornton, Carnival’s senior vice president of itinerary planning and revenue development said “Based on feedback from our guests and travel agent partners, we’re delighted to offer these longer length voyages which provide holiday-makers an opportunity to visit some of the world’s most breath-taking destinations while enjoying all the wonderful on-board innovations and features found aboard Carnival’s ships”.

In addition to fantastic dining, entertainment and activity options available on board, each of these destinations offers beautiful beaches, interesting historical attractions and natural landmarks, and unique sightseeing, dining and shopping opportunities. During these cruises, guests can zipline across the lush countryside, view centuries-old architectural structures, visit world-class museums, and snorkel and scuba dive in crystal-clear waters full of tropical fish and other sea life.

Virgin Group, The Branson Family-Owned Branded Investment Group, Announced The Formation Of Virgin Cruises Virgin Group, the Branson family-owned branded investment group, today announced the formation of Virgin Cruises, its new cruise line business, as well as the appointment of a CEO and its lead investment partner, Bain Capital.

Financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed.

Proven industry leader Tom McAlpin will join Virgin Cruises as CEO and will head the management team. Most recently, Tom has been President and CEO of The World, Residences at Sea. Tom also served as President of Disney Cruise Line having joined as part of the founding management team.

Virgin Cruises will be headquartered in theMiami/Fort Lauderdale area and plans to design and construct two new world class cruise ships. At this time, the company has not disclosed when it will start operating for competitive reasons. As part of one of the world’s most recognized and respected brands, Virgin Cruises will offer guests an outstanding experience and service aimed at broadening consumer targets for the cruise market.

Virgin Group Founder Sir Richard Branson said, “We plan to shake up the cruise industry and deliver a holiday that customers will absolutely love. They’ll be sailing on the latest ships offering great quality, a real sense of fun, and many exciting activities all delivered with the famed Virgin service.”

Stephen Pagliuca, a Managing Director with Bain Capital, said, “From our earliest conversations with the Virgin team, we recognized there is a unique opportunity here to help build the next great cruise line serving travelers from around the world. We know that thanks to the strategic vision laid out by our collective team - and now under the guidance of Tom McAlpin - Virgin Cruises will help reshape consumers’ expectations of what a cruise experience can be. All of us at Bain Capital are thrilled to partner with the Virgin team on this compelling opportunity.”

Tom McAlpin said, “Cruise guests deserve something better and different to what is being offered today, and Virgin Cruises is committed to creating breathtaking experiences for them and a new generation of guests. Opportunities like this do not come often, so I am very excited to lead this business and introduce the Virgin brand to the cruise industry, as it has always put customers at the heart of what it does.”

Making waves in comedy: Thomson Cruises launches new collaboration with The Comedy Store

Thomson Cruises has signed a new collaboration with The Comedy Store, which will further boost its reputation for leading onboard entertainment.

The tie up will bring the best in stand up from the company responsible for launching the careers of a host of famous comedians including Paul Merton, Lee Evans and Michael McIntyre to its customers on board the themed Thomson Dream’s Beyond the Sunset itinerary and Thomson Celebration’s Transatlantic Quest.

The new programme will feature two 45 minute performances on two different nights from some of the best talent on the international comedy circuit.

Helen Caron, Managing Director for Thomson Cruises, says: “We’re really excited about the collaboration with The Comedy Store on our transatlantic itineraries. At Thomson Cruises we pride ourselves on offering world-class entertainment and think our customers are going to really enjoy the best that the comedy world has to offer.”

Taking the theme of comedy further, Thomson Cruises has developed three additional sessions for its customers to take advantage of; • Open Mic – inviting customers on stage to try their hand at stand up • History of comedy – a special guest speaker talking about comedy through the ages • Comedy workshops – an interactive introduction to techniques behind comedy creation and presentation This announcement comes hot on the heels of the recent launch of Thomson Cruises’ brand new winter 2015 programme, which includes 10 fantastic new destinations and seven exciting new itineraries across its popular winter destinations.

Virgin Group has partnered with one of the world’s leading private investment firms, Bain Capital, to work on this new venture. The partnership is committed to exploring the creation of a global cruise business and setting new industry standards.

Ryan Cotton, a Principal with Bain Capital, said, “We are pleased to pursue this exciting opportunity with Virgin, one of the world’s most respected and iconic brands. With a small number of global players, an experience in need of refreshing, and consumers ready for something new and exciting, the industry exhibits all the characteristics of one that is ripe for a new entrant. Drawing on our long history of growing and building great companies, we are confident that together with Virgin and the management team we will build Virgin Cruises into a new favorite for leisure travelers.”

Evan Lovell, Partner at Virgin Management Limited said, “Virgin Cruises complements our extensive travel and leisure experience, which includes our award winning global airlines, passenger train service, and new hotel brand which will open its first property in Chicago next month. We are thrilled that Bain Capital is joining us on this journey.”

Allen & Company LLC is advising Virgin Group on the transaction.

Seattle’s Christmas Ship Festival The Argosy Christmas Ship festival is the largest floating Christmas parade in the world, taking place from 28 November to the 23 December.

The Argosy Christmas Ship will be leading the nightly parade with a choir on board to serenade passengers in the entire fleet. The parade will visit 40 different Puget Sound waterfront communities along the way where locals will gather around bonfires on the shore to watch ships covered in colourful lights sail to the sounds of the season.

From the flotilla of ships to the crowds of people who gather onshore, this celebration is one of the gems of the holiday season. More information on: www.argosycruises.com/dining-cruises/christmas-ship-festival

APT Named Best River Cruise Line at Telegraph Travel Awards 2014

GUIDED TOURS & RIVER CRUISES Leading luxury cruise and tour operator, APT, has been named Best River Cruise Line at the UK’s prestigious Telegraph Travel Awards 2014.

Voted on by almost 90,000 people, the awards are recognised as being the most comprehensive, wide-ranging and reliable reader survey in the world. APT was also named runner up in the Escorted Tour Operator category.

Held on the 8th December 2014 at Banking Hall in central London, the awards included product and destination categories.

Commenting on the award, APT CEO Chris Hall said, “We are delighted to have been voted Best River Cruise Line and also runner up as Best Escorted Tour Operator and would like to thank all our loyal guests for voting for us.

dedication in providing unforgettable travel experiences for our guests each and every day.”

APT offers river cruises through some of the world’s most iconic destinations, including along the Rhine, Danube, Rhone and Douro rivers in Europe; the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia; the Yangtze in China; Lower Ganges in India and Mississippi in the USA.

“Each and every member of our team is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations with every experience they have with us.

Winning these awards is a direct reflection of their efforts. Assisting our team in the UK is our product, operations and onboard staff and To find out more about APT’s award winning river cruise and crew, all of whom have played a huge part in this. I would therefore escorted touring programs 0800 046 3002 or visit aptouring.co.uk. like to publically thank everyone at APT for their contribution and

Norwegian Cruise Line honoured as “World’s Leading Large Ship Cruise Line” by World Travel Awards Norwegian Cruise Line has once again been named the “World’s Leading Large Ship Cruise Line” by the World Travel Awards, marking the third consecutive year that the company has been honoured with this award.

The recognition was bestowed upon Norwegian at the 21st annual World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala, held on 7 December 2014 in Anguilla. The annual awards are voted on by travel agents and consumers across the globe and honour travel companies that provide outstanding products and customer service.

In addition to the award for top large ship cruise line worldwide from the World Travel Awards, Norwegian Cruise Line has also received the award for “Europe’s Leading Cruise Line” for the past seven years, and has been named “Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Line” for the past two years. “We are thrilled to once again be leading the industry and thank our travel partners and guests worldwide for voting Norwegian the World’s Leading Large Ship Cruise Line,” said Drew Madsen, president and chief operating officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are very proud of this incredible achievement, which is a testament to our continued fleet enhancements, hard-working crew and top-notch guest service.”

Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising vessels sail a variety of exciting itineraries, from the Caribbean to Panama Canal, Pacific Coastal and Mexican Riviera. The line’s newest ship, Norwegian Getaway, cruises the Caribbean year-round from Miami. Norwegian has three ships sailing Alaska, four ships sailing in Europe seasonally including Norwegian Epic that will sail in Europe year-round beginning in May, and Pride of America, which sails weekly inter-island Hawaii cruises that offer 100 hours of port time.

The World Travel Awards has been recognising and acknowledging excellence amongst companies involved in the global travel and tourism industries since 1993, and has set high standards for all of their participants.

To book an award-winning cruise with Norwegian, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian on 0845 201 8900 or visit www.ncl.co.uk.

Cruising into 2015 at Portsmouth International Port, - welcoming “one of the most impressive ships afloat” Just as Santa’s Elves spend the months before Christmas getting presents ready for the big day, the Cruise team at Portsmouth International Port are beavering away in the background, filling the calendar with exciting visits and ship calls.

The diary for 2015 is shaping up well, with 38 cruise calls booked so far. The season starts on March 1st and runs all the way through until November. Many of the cruise ships coming to Portsmouth International Port are repeat visitors, although there are some ships that are arriving at the waterfront city for the first time.

The first cruise liner into Port will be Voyager on St David’s Day. She will arrive from La Coruna in the morning, disembarking passengers from one cruise holiday then leaving for Kristiansund in the late afternoon with a new set of holidaymakers. These ‘turnaround’ calls are an important part of the business at Portsmouth International Port, built on large investment in new passenger facilities and a reputation for a flexible and tailored service. 2015 sees an increase in ‘turnaround’ calls at Portsmouth.

‘Europa 2’, a brand new visitor to PIP arrives in June and is described by the Daily Telegraph as “the ultimate in casual luxury for those who don’t stand on pomp and ceremony”; the paper says it is one of the most impressive ships afloat.

Europa 2 only came into service last year, so is also one of the most modern cruise liners to come calling at Portsmouth International Port next year. She is also one of the longest vessels to dock at Portsmouth, made possible by investment in new berthing facilities.

The ship is 225 metres long, yet carries just 516 passengers. The focus is on space and luxury, with a variety of grand suites, penthouses and family apartments. The liner is owned and operated by German company Hapag-Lloyd, and most of the passengers on board will be from her home country. The ship operates on a bi-lingual basis though, so some British customers are likely to be tempted to experience the latest in top end, relaxed and stylish travel.

Another new visitor in 2015 will be Funchal, booked to call four times during the season. The Portuguese vessel is a small vintage ship with wooden decks and public rooms all on one level. Funchal’s cruises are very much based on exploring and discovery - a niche of the cruise market that Portsmouth fits into beautifully.

Passenger visiting Portsmouth are able to experience the magical entry into the Port, sailing close to the Spinnaker Tower and with a great view of ships in the Historic Dockyard. Close access to the channel gives operators the chance to head off to other ports around the UK coast.

Portsmouth International Port is also looking forward to welcoming Sea Explorer to the waterfront city for the first time. Sister ship of Noble Caledonia’s Island Sky, a regular at the Port, Sea Explorer is also described as one of the “world’s finest small ships”. Although the luxury cruise ship will be heading to and from the Channel Islands from Portsmouth in May, it’s designed to withstand the toughest conditions. Sea Explorer has a proud history of exploring the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

Captain Rupert Taylor, Harbour Master at Portsmouth International Port, is in charge of cruise ship bookings and operations. He said “2015 is shaping up to be another successful year. I’m particularly pleased to see the number of turnaround calls is up next year, a vote of confidence in the cruise services that we offer operators and passengers alike. It also means more work for the outside companies that provide services to cruise ships at Portsmouth International Port.”

Details of the 2015 Cruise schedule at Portsmouth International Port can be found here: http://www.portsmouth-port.co.uk/cruise/ cruise_schedule_2015

Russian Government announces new Visa Requirements From 10th December 2014 the Russian Government are implementing a pilot scheme which requires all UK-based applicants to submit biometric (fingerprint) data when applying for any visa at the application centres in the UK (London or Edinburgh).

Some application procedures therefore may have changed and we would recommend reading the below announcement to make sure everyone is fully up to date if they should have clients travelling to Russia in the near future.

Read more about the official announcement from the Russian Embassy in London.

If you should have any further questions regarding the new requirements, please contact our Executive Partner, The Travel Visa Company on 01270 250 590. More details about the company can be found at http://www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk/

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