Cruise News  September - December, 2022

30 November, 2022

MSC CRUISES’ LATEST FLAGSHIP, MSC SEASCAPE, ARRIVES IN NEW YORK CITY AHEAD OF GLITZY NAMING CEREMONY

MSC Seascape, MSC Cruises’ latest fun-filled flagship, reached New York City on 5 December (New York time) ahead of her glamorous Naming Ceremony. The event will take place on Wednesday 7 December at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, and will be the Line’s first ship to be named in New York City, in recognition of the addition of New York as a new homeport in April 2023 bringing even more choice of North American embarkation ports and itineraries for MSC Cruises guests from both North America and the rest of the world.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, a number of lucky travel partners, joined MSC Cruises AU/NZ on Sydney Harbour.  Hosted by Lisa Teiotu, Sales Director, MSC Cruises AU/NZ travel partners were treated to champagne and canapes aboard a luxury yacht.  A sunny Sydney day allowed travel partners to engage in a true connection with the sea, to be educated on MSC Cruises latest flagship, MSC Seascape.    

MSC Seascape will offer an immersive experience through the beautiful design and her impressive outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed for relaxation, dining, and entertainment. 

Some of the key highlights include:

• Technologically advanced onboard entertainment options, including the new ROBOTRON – a thrilling amusement ride that offers the breath-taking thrill of a rollercoaster at sea combined with a personalised DJ music experience
• Awe-inspiring entertainment, with six fantastical new productions and 98 hours of exclusive onboard entertainment featuring interactive elements
• 700 square metres of dedicated kids’ space and cutting-edge amusement options, with newly designed spaces for ages 0 to 17
• 2,270 cabins, featuring 12 different kinds of suites and staterooms with balconies (including the iconic aft suites featured on all Seaside class ships)
• 11 dining venues, 19 bars and lounges, with many options for ‘Al Fresco’ dining and drinking
• Six swimming pools, including a stunning aft infinity pool with incredible ocean views
• The largest and most luxurious MSC Yacht Club in MSC Cruises’ fleet, with approximately 32,000 square feet of space featuring sweeping ocean views from the front of the ship
• An expansive 1,772-foot-long waterfront promenade that puts guests closer to the ocean
• A spectacular glass-floored Bridge of Sighs at deck 16 with a unique view of the sea

MSC Seascape will offer two different 7-night itineraries from Miami, in the sun-soaked Caribbean:

• Eastern Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Nassau in The Bahamas, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic
• Western Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel in Mexico, George Town in the Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios in Jamaica

MSC Cruises is the world’s fastest growing cruise line and the third largest cruise brand in the world. With a truly global footprint, the line is continuing to expand and grow with two new ships coming into service in 2022 – MSC World Europa and 

MSC Seascape – and MSC Euribia hot on their heels in summer 2023.

To find out more about MSC Seascape visit msccruises.com.au msccruises.co.nz

30 November, 2022

Cunard Launches New 2024 Summer Season Offering 195 Voyages To Over 90 Destinations

Queen Anne’s maiden season goes on sale

28 November, 2022 

BRINGING LUXURY TO THE HIGH SEAS: MSC SEASCAPE TO FEATURE FIRST TIMEVALLÉE BOUTIQUE AT SEA

MSC Cruises’ upcoming flagship, launching in November 2022, will house a luxury watches multi-brand concept - TimeVallée

MSC Cruises is stepping up its high-end retail selection on board, thanks to a further enriched catalogue of luxury brands and a new partnership with TimeVallée. The two Geneva-based companies are bringing the “Swiss touch” to the high seas, the sense of elegance and high-quality that the country is known for and bringing along with them a host of revered Swiss watch brands to the delight of guests.

 

Launching this December, for the first time on any cruise ship, the TimeVallée concept will feature on MSC Seascape. Since its inception in 2014, TimeVallée has been making waves in the luxury watch retail sector. Their curated multi-brand selection makes for a destination store that offers some of the most prestigious watches available from over 30 top luxury brands.

 

Aboard MSC Seascape, TimeVallée store will feature a wide inventory of world-famous Maisons, including: Cartier, Baume & Mercier, Hublot, IWC, Mont Blanc, Panerai and Tag Heuer. The look and feel of the space will replicate that of other TimeVallée shops on land and offer the same unique service, complete with extensive brand storytelling and know-how.

 

Brandon Briggs, MSC Cruises SVP Onboard Revenues, shared: “The beauty of luxury shopping at sea is that cruise guests have plenty of time on board. Since cruises are most often at least seven days long, guests have the ability to return throughout the cruise, revisiting their desired purchases and savouring the luxury experience. As we evolve our ships, we have understood the importance of evolving our retail spaces along with them; creating larger retail spaces that are more tailored to customer needs, which is why TimeVallée’s multi-brand but in-depth approach was a perfect fit for our guest experience.”

 

Michael Guenoun, CEO of TimeVallée International, added: “We are delighted to partner with MSC to open TimeVallée at sea for the first time. We are bringing the utmost luxury experience for watch lovers to discover a unique luxury retail concept where client can discover and browse through the most sought-after fine watchmaking brands.”

 

The name TimeVallée, is evocative of the valleys wherein many fine Swiss watches have traditionally been manufactured throughout history. TimeVallée perpetuates the heritage and savoir-faire of the fine watchmaking and invites both newcomers to luxury and watch aficionados alike to browse, learn, share and experience the watchmaking world. Catering to a host of luxury watch maisons, mixing heritage and contemporary design, TimeVallée offers guests dedicated brand experiences in the different areas of the boutique, hosted by well-versed expert brand ambassadors.

 

Worldwide, TimeVallée now has 34 stores, each offering an immersive experience for lovers of fine watches.

 

The Naming Ceremony for MSC Seascape will take place in New York City, in a glittering event on 7 December 2022. The new ship will offer two different seven-night itineraries, stopping at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Nassau in The Bahamas, San Juan in Puerto Rico and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, or calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel in Mexico, George Town in the Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios in Jamaica.

 

For more details on MSC Seascape, please click here msccruises.com.au or msccruises.co.nz

23 November, 2022

MSC CRUISES ‘TURN BLACK INTO BLUE’ BLACK FRIDAY SALE

23 November, 2022

OCEANIA CRUISES LAUNCHES  

BLACK FRIDAY SALE WITH DOUBLE INCENTIVE OFFER 

Guests Enjoy a FREE US$300 Shipboard Credit on Over 60 Sailings in 2023 & 2024 
Travel Advisors Can Earn an AU/NZ$300 Gift Card on Black Friday Sale Bookings 

22 November, 2022

MSC CRUISES NEW FLAGSHIP MSC SEASCAPE TO BE NAMED IN NEW YORK, 7 DECEMBER 2022

9 November, 2022

OCEANIA CRUISES’ REGATTA RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND 

Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, is preparing for a long-awaited return to Australia and New Zealand with the recently re-inspired Regatta set to spend the summer season in local waters. 

 

Oceania Cruises’ Regatta is better than new, having been recently re-inspired as part of an ambitious OceaniaNEXT initiative. All-new suites and staterooms are complemented by dramatically restyled public spaces replete with chic and classy residential furnishings and accented by an intriguing international art collection.

 

The 656-guest Regatta will arrive in Darwin on 9 November, 2022, before heading up to Asia. She will then return to local shores in late November, cruising the coast of Western Australia with further stops in Kangaroo Island, Burnie and Melbourne. Regatta arrives in Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay on 12 December, ahead of a busy summer season with seven destination-intensive itineraries.

 

“This is the first time we’ve had an Oceania Cruises ship in Australia and New Zealand since 2019, so we are delighted to welcome  Regatta back to the region. She will be in Australia, New Zealand, Asia and South Pacific waters for the entire summer season, with plenty of opportunities for immersive exploration,” said Steve Odell, SVP & Managing Director Asia Pacific, Oceania Cruises. 

 

“Seeing Regatta sailing back into Sydney Harbour will be cause for celebration for many Australians who enjoy her luxury small ship ambience.” 

 

Explore hidden local gems with destination-immersive itineraries

Highlight voyages from Regatta’s local season include The Aussie Adventure, a spectacular 35-day voyage that travels the entire coast of Australia on 12 December, from Sydney to Sydney, via Bali. This cruise can also be enjoyed as a 14-day voyage from Sydney to Bali on 12 December, via Australia’s east coast and a 21-day Boxing Day return journey to Sydney via Australia’s west coast.

 

Sailings to New Zealand include a 14-day cruise on 16 January 2023 from Sydney to Auckland via Milford Sound, Christchurch, Napier and the Bay of Islands; and a return journey arriving back in Sydney on 13 February 2023. Another immersive 15-day exploration of New Zealand, Fjords & Tasman Tales, departs Sydney on 13 February 2023, and travels via Hobart to the entire east coast of New Zealand’s south and north island, and the Fjords of Milford Sound.

 

On 28 February, Regatta will leave Australia for a 28-day sailing from Sydney through the Coral Sea and South Pacific to Papeete, Tahiti, via Brisbane, Vanuatu, Fiji, Samoa and Bora Bora.

 

Popular South Pacific sailings include her Papeete round-trip sailings in March, including the 10-day Tahitian Legends on 17 and 27 March, island hopping between French Polynesia’s gems of Tahiti, Moorea, Rangiroa and Bora Bora. 

 

Book Now to Secure Your Dream Voyage

Limited opportunities remain to join one of this season’s Oceania Cruises’ local itineraries. The upper premium cruise line is enticing travellers to secure their dream voyage now, with flexible Reduced 50% Deposits for all sailings booked during November 2022. 

The offer also applies to voyages booked across the line’s destination-immersive itineraries including the Mediterranean, the British Isles, Northern Europe, Scandinavia, the Caribbean, Panama Canal and Transoceanic itineraries.

 

Regatta Returns in 2024

For those guests who may have missed out this year, Regatta will return to the region for the 2023 – 2024 summer season. Enticing itineraries with availability include the 35-day Sydney to Sydney Australian Panorama circumnavigation voyage on 21 December, 2023, the 14-day Sydney to Sydney New Zealand Discovery sailing on 25 January, 2024 and the 15-day Dazzling Oceania Auckland to Sydney itinerary on 24 February, 2024.

 

Re-Inspiration Program

Regatta’s return to this region will offer guests the first opportunity to experience the sweeping array of dramatic enhancements designed to elevate every aspect of the guest experience, as part of the OceaniaNEXT initiative.

 

Together with Oceania Cruises’ three other R-class ships, including Insignia, Sirena and Nautica, Regatta has undergone a dramatic re-inspiration, resulting in these better-than-new ships emerging with brand new designer suites and statements, and stunning new décor in the restaurants, lounges and bars. The total investment for the fleet’s enhancements totalled more than US$100 million.

 

Regatta features four unique open-seating restaurants with eight lounges and bars, a casino and the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Centre. The suites and staterooms boast luxurious, neo-classical furnishings, offering every luxury on board, with 410 professionally trained staff catering to 656 guests.

 

For more information, please visit www.oceaniacruises.com.

 

9 November

Ready, Set, Sail! Just Six Weeks until Norwegian Spirit Debuts Down Under

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 55-year history of breaking boundaries, is counting down the weeks until the arrival of the all-new Norwegian Spirit in Sydney on 21 December 2022. To celebrate the line has just released incredible value deals so Aussies and Kiwis can #CruiseNorwegian right from their doorstep. Plus, a selection of eight all-new 2023 South Pacific itineraries have just been released to entice travellers to the island paradise destinations of French Polynesia and Hawaii.

 

A completely reimagined ship following her extensive bow-to-stern USD$100m renovation – the most expensive refurbishment in NCL’s history – Norwegian Spirit’s arrival on 21 December 2022 also marks NCL’s long-awaited return to Australian waters after nearly three years.

 

“We’re so excited the wait is almost over!“, said Ben Angell, Vice President and Managing Director NCL, APAC. “With just six weeks until Norwegian Spirit sails into spectacular Sydney Harbour we are counting down until local cruise fans can experience this totally transformed ship from their very own doorstep. And with fantastic new offers designed to allow our Australia and New Zealand cruisers to sail with more included, there’s never been a better way to explore the wonders of our own backyard than aboard Norwegian Spirit.”

 

Travellers planning a summer escape will receive incredible value on Norwegian Spirit’s Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific voyages. For a limited time, the second guest sails FREE, plus both guests enjoy NCL’s Free at Sea bonus offers – including a free beverage package, free wi-fi package, shore excursions credit and a free specialty dining package*.

 

Brand New Itineraries in the South Pacific

 

NCL has just released eight brand-new spectacular South Pacific itineraries aboard Norwegian Spirit sailing from September 2023, including a selection of open-jaw sailings between Honolulu, Hawaii and Papeete, Tahiti, each visiting a range of idyllic Hawaiian and French Polynesian destinations where guests can discover the cultural traditions, cuisine, craft and music of the local people. An 11-day South Pacific: Kauai, Maui & Moorea cruise departing 22 October 2023 is priced from AUD$3445/ NZD$3791 per person.

 

Natural Wonders in Australia and New Zealand

 

For her debut season Down Under, Norwegian Spirit will sail a selection of 12-day open-jaw sailings between dual home-ports of Sydney and Auckland, visiting a variety of regional and metropolitan destinations such as Hobart, Burnie, Melbourne and Eden in Australia, as well as Napier, Tauranga, Wellington and Akaroa in New Zealand. Prices start at just AUD$2344 /NZD$2580 per person for the 12-day cruise departing from Sydney on 08 February 2023.

 

Click here to learn more about Norwegian Spirit’s local cruises in 2022, 2023 and 2024.

 

For more information or to book a cruise with NCL, please contact a travel professional; call NCL in Australia on 1300 255 200 or in New Zealand on 0800 969 283; or visit www.ncl.com.

 

 

8 November, 2022

Westerdam calls in Sydney marking the return of Holland America Line to Australia

8 November, 2022

PACIFIC ENCOUNTER FIRST CRUISE SHIP TO RETURN TO LIFOU AS P&O CRUISES AUSTRALIA RESUMES TRADITIONAL SEVEN-NIGHT SOUTH PACIFIC CRUISE ITINERARY

7 November, 2022

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth returns to Fremantle after nearly three years with a ‘shopping list’ of fine WA produce

7 November, 2022

Princess Cruises Unveils 360: An Extraordinary Experience on Discovery Princess; Coming Soon to Enchanted Princess

7 November, 2022

NOW CRUISING FROM THE FUN-SHINE STATE

CARNIVAL LUMINOSA DEPARTS ON ITS FIRST PASSENGER CRUISE FROM BRISBANE

 
Celebrating the momentous occasion, visitors to the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal were treated to a “Here Comes The Fun” event, with live music, a magician, free ice cream, and a special visit from Dr. Seuss characters including The Cat in the Hat.
 
On board Luminosa, the festivities continued with a special presentation from Carnival Cruise Line Executive Vice President and CCO, Ken Tate; Carnival Cruise Line Australia VP, Kara Glamore; and Port of Brisbane CEO, Neil Stephens.
 
As part of the celebration and to welcome Carnival Luminosa into Australian waters, Neil Stephens presented Carnival with Luminosa’s Citizen-‘Ship’ certificate, the light-hearted moment marking Luminosa as the first ship to become an honorary Australian and acknowledging Carnival’s commitment to fun in Queensland.
 
“Luminosa is, without a doubt, a multicultural ship with Italian roots and a history of sailing around the globe. But with her abundance of natural light and unique fun offerings, she feels right at home in the Sunshine State. Bringing a Carnival ship to Queensland has been a long-term goal of ours, so this cruise is a very special occasion,” said Ken.
 

1 November, 2022

THE FUTURE OF CRUISING IS HERE –

MSC CRUISES’ TRAIL-BLAZING NEW FLAGSHIP, MSC WORLD EUROPA, SETS SAIL FOR NAMING CEREMONY IN DOHA, QATAR

31 October, 2022

OCEANIA CRUISES INTRODUCES 2024-2025  TROPICS & EXOTICS VOYAGE COLLECTION

Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, unveiled its 2024-2025 Tropics and Exotics Collection of itineraries, which opens for sale on 3 November, 2022. 

 

The new collection of 157 voyages spans seven continents and ranges from 7 to 200 days in length. Featuring more than 300 ports of call, the collection includes 14 new off-the-beaten-path ports. With 30% to 50% more time in port than premium lines, the itineraries include an astounding 451 overnight stays across 123 voyages. 

 

“This new collection of itineraries showcases iconic ports of call along with a wealth of opportunities to explore corners of the globe nearly untouched by tourism, and with seven brand-new or better-than-new ships, the journey will be just as rewarding as the destinations,” stated Howard Sherman, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises.

 

Travellers seeking to explore more of the world will revel in the selection of 70 Grand Voyages that afford opportunities for epic explorations across distinct regions and multiple continents. Destination immersion is another key element of the 2024-2025 Tropics and Exotics Collection with a wide variety of voyages focused on singular destinations such as the Amazon, the coastal villages of Brazil, the Arabian Peninsula, Japan, and an epic circumnavigation of Australia. 

 

For those seeking to chart a course less travelled, there are in-depth explorations of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, the yacht harbours and tiny atolls of the South Pacific, and even an invigorating early-spring traverse of the North Pacific that combines Japan’s verdant northern prefectures with the rugged Alaska outposts of Dutch Harbor, Kodiak, and Whittier. 

 

2024-2025 Tropics and Exotics Collection Highlights

More than 150 itineraries, featuring 123 cruises with overnight stays and 70 Grand Voyages spanning the globe.

With Caribbean, Mexico and Panama Canal voyages, travellers can revel in new corners of the tropics with visits to refreshingly less-travelled islands such as Bonaire, Carriacou, Dominica and Guadeloupe.

In South America, there are multiple adventures into the pristine landscapes of Patagonia, sailings along the Amazon River or voyages that explore the golden coasts of Brazil and Uruguay.

Across Asia, explorers will delight in travelling to far-flung places and iconic attractions that many only dream of with expansive options for Southeast Asia explorations and a number of fascinating Japan-focused journeys.

Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific journeys reveal a blend of dynamic marquee cities as well as unsung treasures in delightfully off-the-beaten-track places such as the coast of Western Australia; Bluff, Gisborne and Timaru in New Zealand; and blissful islands in French Polynesia and Melanesia.

The collection offers a sweeping array of far-flung Grand Voyages, with options linking multiple distinct regions and region-specific journeys that feature in-depth explorations of South America, the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, and even extended Caribbean and Panama Canal journeys.

New Ports of Call

Camarones, Argentina

Champagne Bay, Vanuatu

Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, Tristan da Cunha

Fernandina Beach, Florida

Hambantota, Sri Lanka

Hillsborough (Carriacou), Grenada

Hitachinaka, Japan

Hualien, Taiwan

Isla de los Estados, Argentina

Kupang, Indonesia

Puerto del Rosario, Canary Islands

St. Helier, Channel Islands

Takamatsu, Japan

Waingpu, Indonesia

THE EVOLUTION OF PERFECTION – A BETTER-THAN-EVER EXPERIENCE

OceaniaNEXT is Oceania Cruises’ continual quest to evolve and elevate the guest experience. It focuses on the hallmarks that inspire guests to return to Oceania Cruises time and again: Exquisitely Crafted Cuisine, Curated Travel Experiences and Small Ship Luxury. Reflecting the crisp sophistication of Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Sirena and Vista, the sweeping Re-inspiration of Marina and Riviera presents a symphony of entirely new suites and staterooms as well as elegant public spaces imbued with a new light, airy ambiance. 

 

The signature onboard experience is better than ever too, with the addition of an extensive collection of new flavours and culinary experiences that transforms dining into a sublime experience and service into an art form. The gourmet cuisine has been entirely reimagined, from a bounty of new flavourful dishes at The Grand Dining Room to a Dom Pérignon pairing dinner that is the only one of its kind. Oceania Cruises’ newest ship, Vista, offers multiple unique firsts in the realms of dining and guest experience. Across all ships, holistic wellness encounters at Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center encourage a lifestyle of health and longevity, while new destination experiences such as Go Green, Go Local, Beyond Blueprints, Culinary Discovery Tours™, Food & Wine Trails tours, and Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar encourage deeper explorations.

 

THE HEART OF THE EXPERIENCE

One aspect of the Oceania Cruises experience remains constant and unchanged: the trademark warm and personalised service. Whether guests are sailing for the first time or the fifteenth, they will note the ease with which the staff remembers their names and their preferences along with the genuine smiles and enthusiasm that can only come from the heart.

 

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call Oceania Cruises on 1300 355 200 (Australia), 0800 625 691 (NZ) or speak with a professional travel advisor.

31 October, 2022

HERE COMES THE FUN QUEENSLAND! CARNIVAL LUMINOSA ARRIVES WITH A LOVE LETTER FOR THE SUNSHINE STATE

Sailing into Australian waters on Sunday, Carnival Luminosa has officially arrived in the Sunshine State, bringing her unique blend of Carnival fun to Brisbane for the very first time.

 

Ported at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal, a special message was sent to locals overnight as 61 of Luminosa’s windows were lit with “We <3 QLD” across her 290m+ length.

 

Setting sail on her first passenger cruise on November 06, Carnival Luminosa will be the first Carnival ship to sail from Brisbane, with 28 sailings from November 2022 to April 2023. With 60 ports of call across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, Luminosa will visit a number of Queensland destinations including Airlie Beach and The Great Barrier Reef, supporting Carnival Australia’s anticipated $165 million contribution to the Queensland economy this year.

 

Last week, Carnival revealed some of the ship’s unique special features including a 10-deck-high atrium, a multi-million dollar bronze sculpture by world-renowned artist Fernando Botero, a sunset bar, a two deck high sky dome and one of the fleets largest spas and thermal areas.

 

On Luminosa’s arrival, Carnival Cruise Line Australia VP, Kara Glamore said the ship is a testament to the brand’s ongoing commitment to Queensland: “Brisbane is the first market globally to experience the big, bright, fun that Carnival Luminosa has to offer and we thank Queenslanders for their patience, love and support. Having a Brisbane-based ship has been a goal of ours for quite some time and it’s only appropriate that our ship in the Sunshine State is packed with natural light, plus the hospitality and fun that Carnival is famous for.”

 

Carnival Luminosa will operate out of Brisbane seasonally from November 2022 to April 2023. The ship will then reposition to Seattle from May 2023 before returning to Queensland later in the year.

 

Facts about Carnival Luminosa:

Capacity: Over 2,200 guests and 920 crew

Length: 964 feet (294m)

Decks: 12

Weight: 92,720 gross tonnage

Beam: 106 feet (32m)

27 October, 2022

Regent Seven Seas Cruises® & Fabergé Collaborate to Design the First Fabergé Egg to Permanently Reside at Sea

Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, the world’s leading luxury ocean cruise line, and Fabergé, the globally revered jewellery maison, announce a very special collaboration to create a rare, first-of-its-kind treasure for the line’s latest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, which sets sail in November 2023.

 

Together, the leaders in luxury have unveiled a bespoke design for a hand-crafted Fabergé x Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Egg Objet to anchor the ship’s new art collection, becoming the first Fabergé Egg Objet to reside permanently at sea. Capturing the essence of how the powerful natural elements of the sea create ‘The Voyage’, this unique creation also reveals a number of ground-breaking firsts for Fabergé.

 

This exciting partnership extends to the creation of two exclusive ‘Spotlight Voyages’ which will immerse guests and art enthusiasts into the world of Fabergé and provide exclusive access to Fabergé experiences and experts onboard these sailings.

The Fabergé x Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Egg Objet, titled ‘Journey in Jewels’, will be the pièce de résistance of a multi-million dollar curated art collection which will debut on Seven Seas Grandeur. Regent is known for providing guests with access to exceptional artwork by the likes of Picasso, Miró and Chagall on display across the fleet.

 

‘Journey in Jewels’ is not available for sale and the prized art piece will only be on display to guests aboard the highly anticipated Seven Seas Grandeur. Regent chose to partner with Fabergé for the central piece of the art collection due to the iconic jewellery brand’s legacy of perfection, craftsmanship, relentless pursuit for excellence and ability to capture a moment in time and create stories and art pieces that span generations. Similarly, Regent’s newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, is inspired by the past and stunningly reimagined for the future, exemplifying the cruise line’s Heritage of Perfection with unrivalled space, unparalleled service, exceptional cuisine, and transformative experiences that begin the moment guests step onboard.

 

A captivating video which reveals the design can be viewed at RSSC.com/faberge.

 

“With each new ship we want the journey itself to provide opportunities for discovery and enrichment as much as the destinations along the way,” said Jason Montague, President and Chief Executive Officer, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “Likewise, each Fabergé objet has a different story to tell, and we knew that our very own Fabergé x Regent Egg could become the type of awe-inspiring piece that would captivate and inspire our guests throughout their voyage with us. It’s the perfect art piece to place on board our newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur.”

 

“For Fabergé to have been selected to create the jewel in the crown of Seven Seas Grandeur’s prestigious art collection, which will permanently live at sea, is a very exciting milestone and a first in Fabergé’s 180 year history,” said Josina von dem Bussche-Kessell, Fabergé Creative Director. “It’s a great privilege to be able to creatively pay homage to what makes being out at sea such a special experience.”

 

Ground-breaking Techniques Inspired by Heritage, Nature and “The Voyage”

 

As a nod to the importance placed on heritage by both Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Fabergé, the unique ‘Journey in Jewels’ Egg Objet takes inspiration from the iconic Fabergé Winter Egg of 1913, while also heavily representing the natural elements of the sea. Conjuring up visions of epic voyages on the water, the egg’s three-tiered base is a gentle cascading waterfall of ocean greens and subtle turquoise, while its outer shell’s soothing deep blue waves become lighter, before breaking into a sea spray of pearls.

 

Exterior features of the egg objet design include a ground-breaking ombre enamel shell; this is the very first time that Fabergé has applied this intricate enamelling technique to an egg, marking this a milestone moment for the Maison. Enamelling is an incredibly technical skill, which is made even more challenging with egg objets due to the added complexity of applying the enamel to a curved surface.

The outer egg ‘shell’ is comprised of seven blades, representing the seven seas, which will unfurl to reveal a surprise hidden inside, details of which are being kept as a closely guarded secret until Seven Seas Grandeur is christened in 2023.

 

Bussche-Kessell continues, “With the ‘Journey in Jewels’ Egg Objet we have introduced some new enamelling techniques, whilst also honouring one of the most valuable and artistically enchanting historic Fabergé Egg Objets, the Winter Egg. We’ve also carefully referenced nature’s spectacles of the sea, with stunningly delicate details across the many layers of this technically advanced piece.”

 

‘Journey in Jewels’ will stand at approximately 18cm tall, with a three-tiered base which hides the movement of the egg’s opening mechanism - the first time that Fabergé has hidden the movement in this way.

 

Designed by Fabergé’s Head of Design, Liisa Tallgren,  ‘Journey in Jewels’ is being entirely hand-crafted by one of Fabergé’s appointed Workmasters, and a dedicated team of artisans based in south-east England. From conception to crafting, the egg will have taken 24 months to complete come November 2023 when it will be specially housed, pride of place in Seven Seas Grandeur’s splendid atrium.

 

Fabergé-themed Spotlight Voyages Revealed

 

In celebration of the ‘Journey in Jewels’ Egg Objet, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Fabergé have created two new Spotlight Voyages. These very special sailings will immerse guests into the world of Fabergé with unique and intimate tours, as well as spell-binding lectures.

 

The first exclusive sailing will be hosted by Fabergé’s Curatorial Director Dr. Géza von Habsburg on board Seven Seas Splendor in June 2023, sailing from Southampton, England to Stockholm, Sweden. Guests will explore Fabergé s connection to Great Britain and British royalty, before extending to Scandinavia to discover the origins of Fabergé’s craftspeople and the Fabergé collections in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

 

Sarah Fabergé, great-granddaughter of Peter Carl Fabergé and founding member of the Fabergé Heritage Council, will also host a sailing on board Seven Seas Grandeur in 2024.

 

Montague continued, “These exclusive new Spotlight Voyages are inspired by the timeless allure of the Fabergé Maison, lifting the veil of untold stories throughout its legacy. Travellers will not only be immersed in the rich culture and heritage of the world’s foremost jewellery brand, but they will also enjoy the unrivalled Regent experience, which has been honed to perfection over 30 years.”

 

More details about both Fabergé Spotlight Voyages will be announced at a later date.

 

For more information, please visit RSSC.com/faberge, call 1300 455 200 (Australia), 0800 625 692 (New Zealand), or contact a professional travel advisor.

26 October, 2022

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam Arrives at New York City on Historic Maiden Call

 Ship to overnight in celebration of the cruise line’s 150th Anniversary

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam arrived at New York City this morning on its maiden call to the city following a transatlantic crossing that departed Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Oct. 15. The ship is nearing the end of a 15-day cruise that is recreating the maiden voyage of Holland America Line’s first ship — Rotterdam I — that departed Rotterdam 150 years ago Oct. 15, 1872.

 

Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine officially declared today, Oct. 26, an “honorary day” for Holland America Line to recognize the occasion and the historic contributions of the company to Manhattan throughout its 150 years.

 

To celebrate the milestone, an event is being held on board tonight for invited guests. A highlight of the evening will be the performance of a musical piece by Emmy Award-winning producer and Emmy-nominated composer Steven Schoenberg, written exclusively for Holland America Line’s anniversary to accompany a special short film about the cruise line’s journey. The composition will be performed by a 25-piece ensemble of former Holland America Line’s Lincoln Center Stage musicians.

 

In addition, the premium line will introduce a partnership with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation to celebrate the cruise line’s 150-year journey from immigrant carrier to consumer ocean liner fleet. The partnership features on-board video content across Holland America Line’s entire fleet produced by an Ellis Island researcher, as well as a curated exhibit launching in 2023 at Ellis Island detailing the brand’s historical prominence in bringing one in 10 immigrants from Europe to the United States.

 

“We are excited to be celebrating our 150th Anniversary in such a vibrant city with our newest ship on a rare overnight call,” said Gus Antorcha, Holland America Line’s president. “There’s nothing like sailing into New York under the Verrazano Bridge, past the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Standing on deck, you can’t help but think back to more than a century ago, feeling the emotion of arriving in America for the first time. Recreating our first voyage has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

 

During the crossing, guests indulged in exclusive menus that showcase Holland America Line's 150-year history with entrées each evening reminiscent of dishes served as early as the 1920s. One special 150th Gala Menu only featured items — from appetizers to desserts — from a previous Holland America Line voyage.

 

In addition to the cuisine, special programming included a “Throwback Happy Hour” that rolled back time with drinks priced as low as 25 cents, Dutch High Tea, presentations that relived the history and roots of the company and anniversary-themed trivia.  Holland America Line also introduced a limited-edition Pilsner beer — HAL Pils — in a commemorative can adorned with the iconic Jan van Beers advertising poster of 1898 showing a woman holding a Holland America Line steamship above her head.

 

For travelers looking to continue the celebration, many of the same special culinary and enrichment programs will be offered on another 150th Anniversary Transatlantic departing April 6, 2023, from New York, ending at Rotterdam April 18, the cruise line’s 150th birthday.

 

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel agent, call 1300 987 322 or visit hollandamerica.com.

 

 

26 October, 2022

MSC EURIBIA MAIDEN SEASON SALE

MSC Cruises second LNG-powered ship, MSC Euribia, marks another step forward in substantially reducing greenhouse gas emissions. LNG plays a key role in the journey towards climate change mitigation and will reduce CO emissions by up to 25% on MSC Euribia, compared to standard fuels while also virtually eliminating other air emissions.

MSC Euribia’s inaugural season commences 10 June 2023 and MSC Cruises wants you to join the celebration with 50% off the cruise fare for the second passenger!

MSC Euribia will offer incredible seven-night itineraries sailing to the Norwegian Fjords with weekly departures from Kiel, Germany with calls including Copenhagen, Denmark; Hellesylt, Norway for the Geirangerfjord; as well as Alesund and Flaam, also in Norway, among others.

Or experience a European adventure. Departing Hamburg, Germany on 15 October 2023, over 9-nights guests will sail to Rotterdam for Amsterdam, Le Havre for Paris, Southampton and Falmouth, UK, where guests can visit Pendennis Castle, the 16th-century fortress built by Henry VIII.  The next stop is St Peter Port on the island of Guernsey before arriving back in Hamburg, Germany. Priced from only AUD $1,579 per cabin, twin share.

About MSC Euribia:

MSC Euribia is named after the ancient goddess Eurybia who harnessed the winds, weather and constellations to master the seas, furthering the vision of the ship to master the deployment of state-of-the-art sustainable technologies to protect and preserve the precious marine ecosystem. MSC Euribia will strike a markedly different silhouette than her sister ships in the Meraviglia-Plus class, thanks to an exclusive artwork designed as a commitment by MSC Cruises to the sea.

As a Meraviglia-Plus ship, MSC Euribia will offer a dynamic guest experience with innovative features and facilities. Some of the highlights include:

·        An enhanced MSC Yacht Club, with stylish private facilities and accommodation including a panoramic lounge, gourmet restaurant and private pool and sun deck

·        MSC for Me – the multi-channel digital experience to help guests make the most of their holiday experience

·        A choice of 10 restaurants and 21 bars including specialty restaurant options

·        A 945-seater theatre and the stunning Carousel Lounge at the aft of the ship

·        Extensive kids’ facilities including with LEGO® play areas and a Chicco baby club

·        112-metre-long Mediterranean promenade lined with boutiques bars and restaurants topped with a breathtaking LED sky screen with animations throughout the day and night

·        Five swimming pools including an extensive pool with retractable roof and a 1,000sqm aquapark

·        The luxurious MSC Aurea Spa with full range of treatments and the state-of-the-art MSC Gym by Technogym®

 

Future Cruise Credits are welcome. But hurry the MSC Euribia maiden season sale is valid from 26 October to 11 November, 2022 only.  The promotion is applicable to over 150 selected sailings from 10 June 2023 to 7 April 2024 for inside, outside and balcony cabins only.

Call AU 1300 028 502 or visit www.msccruises.com.au 

26 October, 2022

Service Dog Sails into Elite Status; More than 700 Cruise Days with Holland America Line

Holland America Line’s favorite four-legged friend, Joska the service dog, reached a milestone achievement of 700 cruise days on Rotterdam’s current 150th Anniversary Transatlantic Crossing, making her eligible to receive the Platinum Medallion, the highest past-guest award for cruising days. Joska, a 10-year-old black Labrador retriever, is the ultimate globetrotter and spends most of her days cruising on Holland America Line with her owners, Cornelia “Connie” and Cornelis Marinussen, who previously received their Platinum Medallions. 

 

A special ceremony for Joska was held on board Rotterdam Oct. 26 to mark the milestone. Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha and Rotterdam’s Captain Werner Timmers presented Joska with her Platinum Medallion, 5-Star Mariner status (highest level) in the cruise line’s loyalty program and a selection of dog-friendly, Holland America Line-branded gifts.

 

“Joska is the first service animal to achieve this lofty status and we wanted to honor her with an event that shows her how special she is to everyone in our company,” said Antorcha. “Registered service animals are always welcome aboard Holland America Line ships, and Joska has become a member of our family. She not only brightens the spirits of everyone on board, but she also allows Connie to do what she loves most, which is to cruise and explore the world.”

 

The Dutch couple have been cruising with Holland America Line since 2013 and have taken nearly 60 cruises. From Alaska, Hawaii and Canada to Europe, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean, Joska has sailed on more than 50 Holland America Line voyages since joining the Marinussen family in 2014 to assist Cornelia, who is legally blind, and is among the most traveled dogs in the world.

 

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.

25 October, 2022

SOPHIA LOREN REVEALS HER FAVOURITE CHIC DESTINATIONS TO VISIT ON AN MSC CRUISES SHIP

Leading up to the naming ceremony for MSC Seascape in New York iconic actress Sophia Loren shares her favourite destinations for immersive experiences and unique culture

MSC Cruises offers guests the opportunity to explore Sophia Loren’s top destinations with itineraries that sail around the world

The iconic actress Sophia Loren is the celebrated godmother for the MSC Cruises fleet in a relationship that spans nearly 20 years and the internationally renowned movie star embodies the core essence of MSC Cruises with her European style and glamour. As one of the greatest female stars of Classic Hollywood cinema, Sophia Loren has visited some of the world’s most renowned destinations and has a passion for travel. Leading up to the launch of MSC Seascape in New York City, the award-winning actress is sharing a list of her favourite chic destinations that she has visited over the years.

Sophia Loren commented: “Throughout my life I have had the privilege of visiting some of the most beautiful places in the world, so it was hard to pick just a few that top the list. What makes these destinations so special are the unique experiences I have had in each one, from naming a glamorous cruise ship to creating special memories with my family. For me, traveling is all about experiencing new people and places and, in turn, discovering yourself all over again. Each of these destinations provide a chic atmosphere to unwind, relax and truly immerse yourself in a new place and its unique culture.”

MSC Cruises offers a truly global experience and this winter will offer 21 modern ships sailing to more than 190 of the world’s most sought-after destinations across 85 different countries, including Sophia Loren’s must-visit destinations. From cosmopolitan cities to towns seeped in culture and history or tropical oases, her top destinations to visit include:

 

1. New York City: Full of energy, bright lights and renowned landmarks, New York City is filled with experiences for every type of traveller. On 7 December 2022, Loren will name MSC Seascape while docked in Manhattan, making it the fleet’s first ship to be launched in “the city that never sleeps”. The ceremony will reflect MSC Cruises’ commitment to the North American cruise market as next year MSC Meraviglia will homeport in the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal beginning April 2023.

Recommended Itinerary: 10-night Canada & New England itinerary on MSC Meraviglia

2. Barcelona, Spain: This beloved destination was the backdrop of the naming ceremony for MSC Splendida in 2009 and the spot for many of Sophia Loren’s vacations throughout the years. With vibrant city life, world-class art museums and designer restaurants, bars, galleries and shops, it’s no wonder this city is one of the Hollywood icon’s top chic destinations. Guests can visit this lively spot on one of MSC Cruises’ popular Mediterranean itineraries.

Recommended Itinerary: 7-night Mediterranean Cruise onboard MSC Grandiosa

3. The Caribbean: Home to pristine white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and MSC Cruises’ very own private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the Caribbean is the perfect spot for a relaxing escape. In 2021, MSC Cruises and Sophia Loren named MSC Seashore at Ocean Cay, marking the official opening of the island. The unique private island destination and marine reserve was designed as a part of the cruise line’s commitment to the environment. The natural beauty of the Caribbean makes this one of the actresses’ favourite destinations. MSC Cruises will offer sailings to Ocean Cay and the Caribbean onboard its newest ship, MSC Seascape, starting December 2022.

Recommended Itinerary: 7-night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise onboard MSC Seascape

4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates: With the tallest buildings in the world, the most luxurious hotels and the boldest architecture that coexists with historic palaces, Dubai is a destination full of enchanted experiences and astounding views. In 2021, Dubai was the stunning backdrop for the naming ceremony of MSC Virtuosa, where Godmother Sophia Loren cut the ribbon welcoming guests to the ship.

Recommended Itinerary: 7-night Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Qatar itinerary on MSC World Europa

5. The Greek Islands:With a rich historical and cultural heritage combined awe-inspiring landscapes and fantastic beaches of long stretches of white sand to tiny bays and hidden coves, the Greek Islands are universally recognized as must-visit destinations. Sophia Loren brought fame to the island of Hydra in the 1950’s where she fell in love with the beauty of Greece whilst on a film set.

Recommended Itinerary: 6- or 7-night Mediterranean itinerary on MSC Armonia

6. Copenhagen, Denmark: Another popular filming spot for the actress, Copenhagen provides an energetic and hip waterside vibe with a compact city center. Café culture permeates the city and top-notch museums await travelers seeking to discover the area’s unique art and history. Shore excursions on MSC Cruises include exploring landscaped gardens, outdoor concerts and beautiful castes. Guests can explore this Sophia Loren favorite with a variety of Northern European sailings offered by the cruise line.

Recommended Itinerary: 7-night Northern Europe itinerary on MSC Fantasia

7. Naples, Italy: Sophia Loren has fond memories of growing up in Naples, Italy. The destination is home to a bustling Mediterranean port with a variety of unique spots waiting to be discovered. From historic streets to lively quarters, Italian culture can be found around every corner of the celebrated actress’ hometown. MSC Cruises’ Mediterranean itineraries offer excursions to Pompeii—one of Campania’s most important commercial centers and the site of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Recommended Itinerary: 6- or 7-night Mediterranean Cruise on MSC Bellissima

25 October, 2022

SPECIAL FEATURES OF CARNIVAL LUMINOSA REVEALED AHEAD OF BRISBANE ARRIVAL

Ahead of Carnival Luminosa’s first Australian sailing on November 06, Carnival Cruise Line has today revealed some of the special features guests can expect that make the ship unique to the fleet. 

Found only on Carnival Luminosa, and serving as the centrepiece of the 10-deck-high atrium, is a particularly monumental bronze sculpture Reclining Woman 2004 that was specially commissioned for this ship from world-renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The multi-million-dollar sculpture, more than 3 metres in height and weighing nearly one tonne, depicts a female figure daydreaming in a reclining position with a subtle and ironic facial expression. She serves as a good luck charm to the ship, her crew, and her guests.

Other unique features include a two-deck-high sliding sky dome over the ship’s large pool deck, allowing the area to be used in all types of weather; a collection of 120 Murano glass light fixtures and chandeliers known worldwide for their quality and craftsmanship; and a sunset deck bar perfect for enjoying a drink in an enchanting atmosphere. The ship also features one of the fleet’s largest spas spanning across two decks with one of the most expansive thermal areas, as well as an arcade with games for guests of all ages to enjoy.

“While Carnival Luminosa will feel like a Carnival ship through and through with our signature service and offerings, the ship offers her own unique features that our guests are going to love,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. 

Carnival Luminosa will serve as the first Carnival ship to be homeported in Brisbane, Australia with a variety of itineraries beginning on November 6, 2022 and running through April 13, 2023. The ship will then reposition for seasonal service from Seattle to Alaska next May, including some first-time destinations for Carnival.

Carnival Luminosa is a sister ship to the four other Spirit-class ships in the Carnival fleet and she will be home to many of the activities and experiences from other Carnival ships that guests have come to know and love, as well as some new spaces.

For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit  

https://www.carnival.com.au/

 

25 October, 2022

SUSTAINABLE CRUISING: THE CRUISE DIVISION OF MSC GROUP AND CHANTIERS DE L’ATLANTIQUE MARK A MAJOR STEP FORWARD WITH THE DELIVERY OF MSC WORLD EUROPA

MSC World Europa represents the most environmentally high-performing cruise ship to date, thanks to a range of technologies and solutions that minimise her impact on the air and marine environment;

The vessel also incorporates fuel cell technology that has the potential to deliver significant CO2 emission reductions;

The two Companies also cut the first steel and named the second World Class ship, MSC World America, destined for the North American market when the ship comes into service.

 

The Cruise Division of MSC Group and Chantiers de l’Atlantique celebrated took delivery of MSC World Europa, the world’s largest LNG-powered cruise ship and one of the first to incorporate fuel cell technology on 24 October (European time). The ceremony marked the next step in a long-term and successful partnership between the two companies, which has resulted in the building of the most innovative and environmentally advanced cruise ship to date for the MSC Cruises fleet. On top of immediate ground-breaking advances in terms of reduction of emissions and energy efficiency, MSC World Europa also paves the way towards the uptake of carbon-neutral synthetic and other alternative fuels as soon as they are available at scale.

A joint contribution to the future of cruising

MSC World Europa is the first from the trail-blazing World Class ships from MSC Cruises. She is an ultramodern urban metropolis at sea that represents the future of cruising and offers a world of different experiences pushing the boundaries of what is possible at sea - setting a new standard for the cruise industry.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, said: “We are proud to welcome to our fleet MSC World Europa, our 20th ship and the first to be LNG-powered. This groundbreaking vessel represents the next phase in our journey toward net zero and sustainable cruising and a symbol of our unwavering commitment to both.

“MSC World Europa represents a major step forward for our Cruise Division, the entire MSC Group, and our industry, with a range of unprecedented innovations in terms of environmental and marine technologies, design and guest-centric features. This is the result of more than four years of work between us, builders Chantiers de l’Atlantique and numerous leading providers of next-generation environmental and maritime technologies and solutions as well as many thousands of hours of training for those onboard and at ports.”

Mr Vago concluded: “Now more than ever we need closer cooperation from suppliers, Governments and others to complement our continued investments and take further steps towards the zero emissions future we all desire. The innovative technologies we create here to use on our vessels can benefit all of society not just the cruise industry or the shipping sector overall.”

Laurent Castaing, General Manager of Chantiers de l’Atlantique, said: “We have reached a new stage in the cruise industry with MSC World Europa, the largest ship ever built for a European shipowner. She is equipped with all the latest technologies to offer the passengers an unprecedented cruising experience. From a technological standpoint MSC World Europa, which is equipped with a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system, present a new level of performance and efficiency of the cruise industry. This represents a major milestone in minimizing emissions as MSC World Europa is the least emitting ship of the entire cruise industry[1].”

The first cruise ship to feature fuel cell technology powered by LNG

MSC World Europa is the world’s first contemporary cruise ship to feature brand new solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). The ship will include a 150-kilowatt SOFC demonstrator that will use LNG to produce electricity and heat on board in a highly efficient way by means of an electrochemical reaction. It will be a testbed to accelerate the development of fuel cell technology for contemporary cruise ships and offers a potential to enable hybrid propulsion solutions in the future.

“We anticipate SOFC will reduce emissions of greenhouse gases substantially compared with conventional LNG engine without producing emissions of nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides or fine particles. It also has the advantage of not only being compatible with LNG, but also with low and zero carbon fuels such as green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen. We could also in the future transition to synthetic LNG or other alternative non-carbon fuels,” said Linden Coppell, Vice President of Sustainability & ESG at MSC Cruises.

LNG: a transitional fuel and the cleanest currently available at scale

“We chose LNG for the very clear reason that it is the cleanest marine fuel currently available at scale, a transitional fuel as we look ahead to source and use synthetic LNG or other alternative non-carbon fuels as soon as they become available at scale”, said Pierfrancesco Vago.  

Compared to standard marine fuels, LNG nearly eliminates air pollutant emissions, including sulphur oxides and fine particles, greatly reduces nitrogen oxides, and already achieves a CO2 reduction of up to 25%. LNG will also enable the development of low-carbon fuels and solutions such as green hydrogen, synthetic-LNG, and fuel cells.

Energy efficiency at its core

In partnership with the shipyard, MSC World Europa has been designed with an innovative hull shape to minimise resistance through the water.

MSC World Europa also incorporates a wide range of equipment to optimise energy use throughout the ship. These include smart ventilation and advanced air conditioning systems, with automated energy recovery loops, allowing effective distribution of heat and cold across the ship. The ship uses LED lighting throughout the ship, controlled by smart management systems to further enhance the energy saving profile.

It will also be fitted with enhanced automatic data collection systems for remote energy monitoring and advanced analysis, allowing real-time shoreside support to optimise operational efficiency onboard.

These efficiency advances, and the use of LNG, will enable an operational performance far higher that the IMO-required energy design criteria for new ships. MSC World Europa is designed to perform 47% better than its Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) required by regulation.

Advanced water treatment and waste management systems, and other innovative features 

MSC World Europa is equipped with an advanced wastewater treatment system (AWTS) that meets the world’s highest regulatory requirements, including the so-called Baltic standard. It treats all wastewater produced onboard to close to tap water standards. The ship also includes a state-of-the-art ballast water treatment system that prevents the introduction of invasive species in the marine environment through ballast water discharges, in compliance with IMO’s Ballast Water Management Convention.

“We have an entire team of crew dedicated to implement strict waste management protocols which separate all wastes into seven distinct types, for example, glass, aluminum and paper, with specialised equipment to crush or bundle these waste types in the ship’s waste management facility,” said Linden Coppell.

In addition, MSC World Europa features a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system that reduces NOx emissions by 90% when LNG is not available, and the ship must run on marine gas oil. As LNG fuel achieves a similar reduction, MSC World Europa will always be ready to meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO’s) Tier III NOx emissions standards. Like all MSC Cruises’ new builds, the ship is fitted with shore power capability, which allows for us to minimise engine use at ports where the required infrastructure is available.

MSC World Europa’s hull and engine room have been designed to minimise acoustic underwater sound impact, reducing the potential impact on marine mammals in the surrounding waters.

Next-generation cruise experience

Boasting future-proof marine and onboard hospitality technologies, MSC World Europa will redefine the cruise experience with a variety of never-before-seen concepts and creative areas unlike anything at sea today. The ground-breaking design features a Y-shaped aft structure that leads to the impressive 104-metre-long half-open half-covered Europa Promenade with breath-taking ocean views. Brand new balcony cabins overlook the stunning promenade, which features a striking architectural centrepiece in the form of The Venom Drop @ The Spiral, an 11-deck-high slide, the longest at sea.

MSC World Europa’s ‘firsts’ include a micro-brewery, gin bar, healthy juice bar, coffee emporium and tea-house.  The ship has 13 different dining options including two new specialty restaurants, La Pescaderia that will offer fresh seafood and Chef’s Garden Kitchen will dish up seasonal farm-to-ocean cooking. 

Steel cutting ceremony of MSC World America

The name of the second World Class ship was revealed today during the steel cutting ceremony and MSC Cruises announced that MSC World America is destined for North America when she comes into service in 2025. This is further proof of the line’s commitment to deploy its newest ships to this important cruise market and to provide U.S guests with a ship and guest experience that is tailored to them.  MSC World America will become the fourth new flagship to be deployed in this region.

MSC World Europa’s features and environmental technologies:

 

Key figures:

Gross Tonnage – 215,863

Length – 333.3m

Width – 47m

Height – 68m

Passenger cabins – 2,626

Passenger Capacity – 6,762

 

Engines and fuels:

5 Wärtsilä 14V 46DF engines dual-fuel engines, that can run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and on low-sulphur marine gasoil (MGO)

150-kW solid oxide fuel cell demonstrator

 

Air Emissions:

Selective catalytic reduction system that reduces NOx emissions by 90% when the ship runs on MGO (LNG offers a similar NOx reduction); MSC World Europa is capable of meeting IMO’s Tier III standards regardless of the fuel it uses

Shore-to-ship power connectivity, allowing the ship to switch off engines at ports where shore-to-ship power infrastructure is available

 

Wastewater treatment:

Advanced wastewater treatment system complying with the most stringent standards on IMO’s MEPC 227(64) Resolution (the so-called Baltic Standard)

Ballast water treatment system with UV treatment to prevent the introduction of invasive species in the marine environment through ballast water discharges, in compliance with IMO’s Ballast Water Management Convention

 

Underwater radiated noise management system with hull and engine room designs that minimises acoustic sound impact, reducing their potential effects on marine fauna, most particularly on marine mammals in the surrounding waters.

 

Energy Efficiency: All MSC Cruises’ newbuilds incorporate a wide range of energy efficient equipment that help reduce and optimise engine use. These include smart ventilation and advanced air conditioning systems with automated energy recovery loops that redistribute heat and cold to reduce demand. The ships use LED lighting throughout the ship controlled by smart management systems to enhance further the energy saving profile. In partnership with the shipyard, MSC World Europa has been designed with an innovative hull shape to minimize resistance through the water and it will be fitted with automatic data collection systems for remote energy monitoring and advanced analysis, allowing real-time shoreside support to optimise operational efficiency onboard.

 

About the Cruise Division of MSC Group

 

The Cruise Division of MSC Group, the leading privately held Swiss-based shipping and logistics conglomerate with over 300 years of maritime heritage, is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and has two distinct brands within its structure - the contemporary and luxury brands.

 

MSC Cruises, the contemporary brand, is the world’s third largest cruise brand as well as the leader in Europe, South America, the Middle East and Southern Africa with more market share in addition to deployed capacity than any other player. It is also the fastest growing global cruise brand with a strong presence in the Caribbean, North America and the Far East markets.

 

Its fleet comprises 19 modern vessels combined with a sizeable future global investment portfolio of new vessels and is projected to grow to 23 cruise ships by 2025 with options for six more vessel orders in place through 2030.

 

MSC Cruises offers its guests an enriching, immersive and safe cruise experience inspired by the Company’s European heritage, where they can enjoy international dining, world-class entertainment, award-winning family programmes and the very latest user-friendly technology on board. To learn more about contemporary brand’s itineraries and experience on board its ships please see here.

 

Meanwhile the luxury brand, Explora Journeys, is set to start operating in 2023 with a fleet with the latest and most advanced environmental and maritime technologies available. The first of which will have a gross tonnage of 63,900 GT and feature 461 of the largest suites at sea, all with ocean front terraces. These luxury ships will introduce to the luxury segment a broad range of new guest experiences and other activities as well as generous ratios of public spaces, in addition to showcasing highly innovative design. For further information about Explora Journeys please see here.

 

MSC’s number one priority across all its operations has always been the health and safety of its guests and crew, as well as the communities at the destinations its ships serve.  In August 2020, MSC Cruises implemented a new comprehensive and robust health and safety protocol to become the first major line to return to sea. To learn more about MSC Cruises’ health & safety protocol please see here.

 

MSC has long been committed to environmental stewardship with a long-term goal to achieve net zero emissions for its operations by 2050. The Company is also a significant investor in next-generation environmental marine technologies, with the objective to support their accelerated development and availability industry-wide. To learn more about the Company’s environmental commitment please see here. 

 

Finally, to learn more about the MSC Foundation, MSC Group’s own vehicle to lead, focus and advance its conservation, humanitarian and cultural commitments please see here.

 

24 October, 2022
CUNARD ANNOUNCES ALASKA 2023 INSIGHT PROGRAMME FEATURING WORLD-FAMOUS ADVENTURER BEAR GRYLLS

Cunard announces an exciting new line-up for Alaska 2023’s Cunard InsightsTM enrichment programme with one of the most recognised faces of outdoor adventure, Bear Grylls OBE, headlining the season.

 

Bear will be joining Queen Elizabeth’s maiden 2023 Alaska voyage, departing Vancouver on 8 June (Q320), where he will share his experience as one of the youngest-ever climbers of Mount Everest, bestselling author, TV presenter and all-round adventurer. This voyage will mark the first time Bear has returned to Alaska since his memorable visit with the then-President of the United States, Barack Obama, in 2015 – and his first appearance ever speaking on a cruise ship.

 

Guests aboard this 12-night voyage will be able to experience all that the luxurious Queen Elizabeth has to offer – such as indulging in Mareel Wellness & Beauty’s relaxing spa treatments – while cruising past the breath-taking Alaskan landscape. Highlights include the Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord and the magnificent Hubbard Glacier.

 

Queen Elizabeth will sail six further voyages from Vancouver throughout June, July and August, visiting a number of superb ports, including Skagway, Juneau, Anchorage and Sitka. Each voyage has its own inspiring adventure and exploration Insights Programme, featuring award-winning naturalist, Dr Rachel Cartwright, a Cultural Heritage Guide from Alaska Native Voices, as well as talks and Q&A sessions from an expert in the field of adventure and exploration. These experts include British mountaineer Kenton Cool - who has summited Mount Everest 15 times, including leading Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Ben Fogle in their respective expeditions, Ann Daniels – one of Britain’s leading

 

Polar explorers and the first woman in history to ski to the North and South Poles as part of an all-women team, and Felicity Aston MBE – Polar scientist turned Explorer, award-winning author, TV presenter and world-record holder for being the first woman to ski alone across the Antarctic. One voyage will feature British maritime archaeologist Mensun Bound, who has led some of the most famous shipwreck discoveries, including the discovery of Shackleton’s lost ship Endurance earlier this year in Antarctica.

 

Sture Myrmell, President, Carnival UK, said: “We’re delighted to welcome all of our world-class adventurers onboard next year for yet another fantastic enrichment programme. There’s no better way to experience Alaska – one of the most magnificent places in the world – than aboard the magnificent Queen Elizabeth!”

 

For more information about Cunard, visit www.cunard.co.uk.

21 October, 2022

‘SOMEDAY’ IS FINALLY HERE DOWN UNDER!
CELEBRITY CRUISES, LEADERS IN RELAXED-LUXURY CRUISING, MAKES ITS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND RETURN

 

For travellers with their heart set on a dream holiday, sailing the captivating coastlines of Down Under, the wait is finally over. Today marks a new beginning, as Celebrity Cruises celebrates its highly anticipated return to Australian and New Zealand waters.

On Saturday, Celebrity Eclipse set sail from Sydney, Australia, allowing guests to Journey WonderFULL on a 12-night itinerary exploring the ruggedly scenic wilderness of New Zealand. This voyage is the first of 17 sailings departing from Sydney and Auckland through April 2023, and the first for Celebrity Eclipse in Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific waters.

Guests onboard the award-winning Celebrity Eclipse will be treated to experiences as enchanting as the cosmopolitan cities, stunning beaches and exotic wildlife they will explore as part of the season’s enhanced onboard and shore-side experiences, with a focus on luxury and relaxation, destination immersion, and culinary exploration.

“The return Down Under has been long-awaited but someday has finally arrived! Celebrity Eclipse is the first Celebrity ship to sail this region for 930 days - a momentous occasion for the brand and our team members who have worked so hard to get to this point; and the first of many WonderFULL sailings ahead,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, 

President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “Returning to this region is another significant milestone in the industry’s global recovery, as we sail forward into a bright future.”

Celebrity Cruises Vice President and Managing Director of Australia and APAC, Tim Jones, added, “We’ve been patiently waiting for this moment for so long, and to finally see the freshly painted blue hull of Celebrity Eclipse slice through the waters of Sydney Harbour didn’t disappoint. We were one of the remaining major cruise markets to return to service, and we are really proud to be contributing to the tourism industries of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific once more, alongside rebuilding the economy of key coastal communities.

“Continuing our momentum in the region, next year we’ll be taking the guest experience to the ‘Edge’ with the debut season of Celebrity Edge Down Under! It’s the great outdoors that makes this region truly exceptional and we can’t wait to welcome an equally exceptional ship that’s been uniquely designed to connect guests with their surroundings. Whether you’re flying Down Under to join us, or stepping aboard from your front door, Celebrity Edge is a chance to explore our exotic landscapes like never before, all while sailing in complete luxury. ”

Highlights of Celebrity’s 2022-23 season Down Under include:

Discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef from above and below with a choice of multiple exceptional experiences from privately chartered yachts to scenic helicopter rides

Savour some of the country’s most revered wines poured by the winemakers themselves during the first-ever Australian food and wine itinerary to Melbourne, Adelaide and Hobart;

Enjoy a new overnight opportunity in Hobart, Cairns and Adelaide to experience the vibrant nightlife in each of these capital cities;

Stay longer in port with 8pm departures from popular destinations such as Melbourne, Brisbane and Christchurch;

The popular Auckland to Fiji voyage makes a comeback, departing for the first time in January, and providing New Zealand guests the opportunity to enjoy this much-loved cruise for the holiday season;

Three South Pacific Island itineraries taking guests to some of the world’s most beautiful islands;

And, a new transpacific sailing at the end of the season, seamlessly transporting guests between Sydney and Honolulu and crossing the international date line.

Boasting 21 world-class restaurants and bars, stylish accommodations, an exclusive resort-within-a-resort area for suite guests at The Retreat®, plus an array of indulgent treatments at The Spa, Celebrity Eclipse exudes relaxed luxury. For guests looking to relax outdoors, Celebrity Eclipse is one of the only ships in the world featuring a ½ acre of real lawn grass. Appropriately named, The Lawn Club, this area of the ship is the perfect spot to play outdoor games, watch a movie, enjoy live music, enjoy endless ocean views or catch some sun.  

 

And, because vacations should be effortless from the start, guests can choose to have Wi-Fi, drinks and service charges All IncludedSM, simplifying the luxury sailing experience.

 

For more information on all sailings available onboard Celebrity Eclipse this 2022-23 season, guests can contact a trusted travel advisor, visit celebritycruises.com/au or call 1800 003 002.

 

Princess Cruises’ Majestic Princess sailed into Sydney this morning, bringing over 3,500 guests after completing her 31-day trans-Pacific voyage from Vancouver, visiting Los Angeles, Papeete, Tauranga, Auckland, Bay of Islands.

Majestic Princess is the second Princess ship to join Coral Princess and has been homeported in Brisbane since June. 

The 3560-guest, 143,000-tonne Majestic Princess will commence her homeport season from Sydney today, where we’ll call the Harbour city home for 197 days.

This summer season, the MedallionClass ship will sail on 17 voyages, visiting 19 ports, with 71 calls across the region.

Grand Princess will join the Princess Australian fleet in early November, where she will be homeported from Melbourne.

Princess will operate in Australia with a fully MedallionClass enabled fleet.

 

Itinerary Highlights:

5-night + 8-night voyages to Tasmania (includes 2 x overnight calls in Hobart)

2 x Fiji voyages

2 x voyages commence from Auckland, sail around New Zealand and finish in Sydney.

Sydney Roundtrip Christmas + NYE voyage around New Zealand

 

Economic Impact:

$49M estimated economic impact on the Australian economy

18 October, 2022

DECADE OF FUN!
CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS IN AUSTRALIA

It's been just over two weeks after returning to Australian shores and yesterday Carnival Cruise Line celebrated an incredible 10 years of providing Australians with fun-filled holidays at great value.

 

Kicking off celebrations at Tangalooma, Moreton Island, passengers aboard Carnival Splendor were treated to the party of a lifetime with beach games on the sand, Carnival cupcakes and a giant ‘10 Years in Aus’ sandcastle before returning to the ship for her journey home to Sydney.

 

Carnival Fun-bassador Beau Ryan joined in the festivities and said the party was the most fun you could have on dry land: “The energy at Tangalooma was incredible. Everyone is just so excited for Carnival to be back in Australia, and to have this celebration so soon after their return shows that fun cruising is well and truly home.”

 

As thanks for their ongoing support over the past decade, Carnival also hosted a special lunch for key trade partners. Bringing the best of Carnival Splendor to the shore, guests were treated to ‘Green Lightning’ cocktails, elements of Carnival’s famous theme nights including ‘80s RocknGlow’, ‘Island night’ and all-new ‘Outback Country Night’, music, games, and prizes. Carnival Cruise Line also donated a seven-night, South Pacific cruise onboard Carnival Luminosa to the Children’s Hospital Foundation in Queensland to gift to a family in need of a holiday. Carnival Cruise Line has supported the Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation since 2016 and have raised over $250,000 through their Wiggle for Westmead initiative. Carnival are extending this partnership into Queensland, raising funds for the Children’s Hospital Foundation with the Conga for Kids program on sailings departing from Brisbane.

 

First arriving down under in October 2012, over one million guests have since experienced the fun of a Carnival cruise. In 10 years, Carnival has welcomed three ships to Australia, with a fourth ship to follow very soon – Carnival Luminosa.

 

The latest in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, Australia will be the first market to experience Carnival Luminosa as she departs on her first passenger cruise in November 2022. Luminosa’s arrival will also kick-start Carnival’s first-ever Queensland program with 28 sailings departing from Brisbane from November 2022 to April 2023.

 

On the momentous occasion, Carnival Cruise Line Vice President, Kara Glamore said: “The saying ‘time flies when you’re having fun’ comes to mind when I think of our time in Australia. Although it has been a challenging few years, today’s celebration and the reception we’ve had for our return has been truly incredible. We can’t thank our guests, partners, and crew enough for all their support, and we can’t wait to offer our signature style of fun cruising for many years to come.”

 

For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit  

https://www.carnival.com.au/  

18 October, 2022

MSC WORLD EUROPA FURTHER ELEVATES FOOD AND BEVERAGE EXPERIENCE WITH NEW INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS FOCUSED ON ARTISANAL EXPERTISE

 

MSC Cruises has revealed two new partnerships that will enrich the food and beverage offering on the line’s upcoming flagship MSC World Europa.

 

Michelin-starred chef, TV personality and author Niklas Ekstedt has collaborated with MSC Cruises to design the menu for the specialty restaurant Chef’s Garden Kitchen, focussing on the natural ingredients and a farm-to-ocean ethos. This new restaurant will feature the first-at-sea hydroponic garden and guests will be treated to a uniquely immersive experience with the master chef preparing Ekstedt’s extraordinary creations in an open kitchen against a backdrop of panoramic sea views.

 

Meanwhile award-winning brewmaster Teo Musso, who created the Baladin Farm Brewery, has worked with MSC Cruises to create a bespoke range of MSC signature craft beers that will be brewed at sea in the ship’s full-scale micro-brewery. The brewery will produce and serve the range of “Oceanic” beers made with desalinated sea water exclusively on board, offering a pils, a bitter and a wheat beer, to be enjoyed alongside classic pub snacks.

 

These partnerships bring together international experts in their field who have been carefully selected as they share common values with MSC Cruises, focussing on quality and passion, as well as working with carefully chosen ingredients. Thanks to the skills and knowledge of Chef Niklas Ekstedt and master brewer Teo Musso, these venues will offer a distinct and elevated experience that will set them apart, in line with MSC World Europa’s mission of redefining the future of cruising.

 

Chef Ekstedt shared: “Working with MSC Cruises to develop a new dining concept on MSC World Europa has been an exciting experience and we have created something really special and unique. The menu is rooted in my core philosophy that everything needs to start with the very best natural ingredients and as such the dishes are simple but full of flavour and will feature the hydroponic micro-greens that are grown in on board in the restaurant to enhance the flavours, texture and colours.” 

 

Birra Baladin founder and brewmaster Teo Musso added: “I have always loved to experiment and be creative with my beers. This partnership with MSC Cruises was a gift, a chance to create not only three new beers but to do so in the most romantic of ways: at sea. The result is three totally new “Oceanic” brews, a pils, a bitter and a wheat, each with its own unique array of flavours. A chance for MSC Cruises’ guests to discover new tastes, just as they discover new destinations.”

 

 

CHEF’S GARDEN KITCHEN – A FOODIE OASIS

The Chef’s Garden Kitchen’s promises fresh and seasonal flavours, taking its cues from nature. Menu highlights include scallop ceviche, pickled kohlrabi, spruce, lingonberries, grapefruit or for a main dish seared Langoustine tails, carrots, finger lime, infused broth rounded off with a dessert of meringue, sea buckthorn, white chocolate, verbena.

 

Born in Sweden, the son of a produce seller, Niklas Ekstedt began his strong connection with nature and the Earth’s flavours at a young age. Modernising cuisine with art not technology, Ekstedt combines traditional Nordic cooking and preserving techniques with astonishingly creative combinations of rigorously fresh seasonal ingredients.

 

This close family bond spoke directly to MSC Cruises, which began and remains a family-owned and operated Company. As a key pillar of the brand, each ship is designed to welcome families of all sizes and ages for the best experience for all involved.

 

MASTERS OF THE SEA – CRAFT BEERS LIKE NOWHERE AT SEA

The Masters of the Sea pub has long been a favourite spot to grab a quick bite and to delight in the extensive beer list, but this will be the first time that it features an onboard brewery. For this undertaking, it was essential for MSC Cruises to choose a partner that would understand the complexities of brewing under complicated conditions, as well as someone who understood the brand’s vision and philosophy.

 

Birra Baladin is an Italian craft and farm brewery with its own blend of delectable flavours, as well as creative innovations and a history steeped in beautiful traditions. The founder and brewmaster Teo Musso is the visionary powerhouse behind the brand,  considered the “father” of the Italian craft beer movement and an influential craft beer player, internationally. He introduced a new concept in the beer business, suggesting to restaurants to use beer as food pairing. He supports the Italian agricultural blockchain to certify the production of real craft beers Made in Italy. . His beers have gained cult status since their inception in the 90s and are still brewed just outside Teo Musso’s hometown (Piozzo) in Piedmont.

 

Once again, Teo Musso’s strong bond with his family struck a chord with MSC Cruises. He was raised by Italian farmers that taught him the values of natural ingredients and he has dedicated beers to both his children and their mother. Teo Musso’s values are a natural fit for the cruise brand, and so is his shared Italian heritage.

 

A TEMPTING ARRAY OF RESTAURANTS, BARS AND LOUNGES

MSC World Europa rounds up her list of gustatory venues with seven brand new bar and lounge concepts, as well as new dining locations, including:

NEW! Coffee Emporium. This sleek and modern coffee house is a coffee connoisseur’s dream.

NEW! Raj Polo Tea House takes a step back in time to turn-of-the-century India, where Indian and English tea traditions converge in a relaxing tropical setting.

NEW! The Gin Project is a must-stop shop for gin aficionados with over 70 craft gins, with classic cocktails expertly prepared by gin-tenders along with a vintage Crawley’s shaker.

NEW! Elixir - Mixology Bar is THE “It Bar” for cool and edgy cocktails, with expert mixologists creating handcrafted concoctions, featuring delicious Fever Tree mixers.

NEW! Fizz - Champagne Bar elevates the bubbles experience from previous ships with a dedicated sumptuous lounge, offering an elegant atmosphere to enjoy decadent Champagne.

NEW! La Pescaderia offers a fresh selection of seafood in a market-style setting, complete with a fresh fish display, where guests may choose their whole fish or from a selection of takeaway options. The restaurant prepares traditional seafood, complemented with a variety of Mediterranean mezze, and includes outdoor patio seating.

NEW!  Luna Park Pizza & Burger is a casual buffet, featuring bright ambiance and inventive design elements for all ages. The interactive experience includes family games and a fun menu featuring classic American fare from “coney dogs” and salted pretzels to funnel cake.

 

MSC World Europa will welcome her first guests from December 2022. She will spend her inaugural season in the Arabian Gulf region, providing the ultimate winter sun cruise experience, when guests will enjoy 7-night cruises from Dubai. The ship will sail to the nearby modern metropolis of Abu Dhabi, on to Sir Bani Yas Island, Dammam in Saudi Arabia and the breath-taking Al Ahsa oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before heading to futuristic Doha, Qatar, and returning to Dubai with an overnight in the city to discover all the marvels it has to offer. 

 

Departing Dubai on March 25, 2023, MSC World Europa will head to the Mediterranean Sea. In summer 2023, she will offer 7-night cruises calling at the Italian ports of Genoa, Naples and Messina, as well as Valletta in Malta, Barcelona in Spain and Marseille in France.

 

For more information about MSC World Europa, please click here

 

 

END

 

ABOUT MSC WORLD EUROPA

 

MSC World Europa is the first in the trail-blazing MSC World Class - a brand new class of ships that introduces a completely new cruising platform. Boasting future-proof marine and onboard hospitality technologies, MSC World Europa will redefine the cruise experience with a variety of never-before-seen concepts and creative areas unlike anything at sea today. The ground-breaking design features a Y-shaped with an impressive 104-metre long World Promenade with breath-taking ocean views. Brand new balcony cabins overlook the spectacular promenade, which features a striking architectural centrepiece in the form of The Venom Drop @ The Spiral, an 11-deck-high slide which will be the longest at sea. 

 

Holland America Line’s Westerdam calls in Apia, Samoa tomorrow marking the return of cruising to the island nation

Tomorrow, on Tuesday 18 October, Holland America Line’s Westerdam will be the first cruise ship to return to Samoa since the pandemic, with the visit also marking Westerdam’s maiden call to the port.

 

The call is being made as part of Westerdam’s repositioning voyage from Vancouver to Sydney where she will be homeported for part of the 2022-23 Australian and New Zealand wave season.

 

Westerdam will arrive in Samoa’s capital of Apia at 8am and depart at 5pm, giving her 1,964 passengers a full day to head ashore and explore the magnificent island, generating substantial spend and bolstering the nation’s tourism economy.

 

The Samoa Tourism Authority in conjunction with the Samoa Ports Authority, as well as port and excursion agents, are planning a warm Samoan welcome to mark Westerdam’s port call.

 

“Apia will be a popular port call for Westerdam’s guests because of its natural coastal beauty, and cultural and natural attractions,” Holland America Line VP Sales and Marketing Ryan Taibel said.

 

“Westerdam’s guests will enjoy a host of experiences that Apia and the wider region has to offer including the Museum of Samoa, and the Rober Louis Stevenson Museum, excursions to Lalomanu and Manu Sina beaches and, of course, local vanilla farms – all of which are adding invaluable tourism dollars to the local economy,” Mr Taibel said.

 

Homeported out of Sydney from November 8, 2022, to January 3, 2023, Westerdam will sail seven itineraries around Australia and New Zealand ranging from 13 to 30 days. It will be Westedam’s first season in Australia and New Zealand, and the first time since 2016 Holland America Line has had two ships sailing simultaneously around the region.

 

One of Holland America Line’s Vista Class ships, Westerdam features some of the line’s most lauded entertainment venues such as B.B. King’s Blues Club and Lincoln Center Stage, exemplary dining experiences including much-celebrated steakhouse, Pinnacle Grill, and Asian fusion restaurant, Tamarind, plus the World Stage for dynamic evening shows, and Gallery Bar which is one of Holland America Line’s newest cocktail destinations. 

MSC OPERA TO OFFER ACCOMODATION AS A CRUISE SHIP HOTEL FOR FOOTBALL FANS IN DOHA, QATAR

MSC Cruises has announced that MSC Opera will become a cruise ship hotel in Doha working in cooperation with Qatar’s Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy. The ship will be berthed ready to welcome visitors in the port from 19 November through to 19 December and will join MSC World Europa and MSC Poesia during this period. 

 

This new accommodation opportunity for football fans and visitors to Doha can be booked for a minimum of two nights through MSC Cruises Australia here & New Zealand here by calling the MSC Cruises Contact Centre on AU 1300 028 502/ NZ 0508 4278 473 or through a preferred travel agent.

MSC Opera offers elegant comfort and unique hospitality with a variety of lounges and entertainment venues including the glamorous La Cabala Piano Lounge, the magnificent Teatro dell ‘Opera theatre for evening entertainment, a range of restaurants, a spa, gym, swimming pools and whirlpools located throughout the ship’s nine decks.

For more information visit here msccruises.com.au  or msccruises.co.nz

10 October, 2022

Easing of Vaccination Rules for Children Means Families 
Can Book Cruise Holidays with Confidence 

Carnival Australia welcomes the New South Wales and Queensland Government’s action to accelerate a planned easing of Covid vaccination rules for children enabling more families to cruise under protocols that have supported the restart of cruising in Australia. 

 

Although the rule change is currently limited to NSW and Queensland, it is expected to soon become the model for the Eastern Seaboard Cruise Protocols that have been adopted nationally.

 

A problem with existing arrangements emerged following high family demand during the recent spring holiday period with cruise lines unable to accept some family bookings or having to cancel some cruise holidays.

 

These families were left disappointed because under the rules unvaccinated children aged under 12 were limited to a five per cent threshold that also accounted for unvaccinated adult guests with medical exemptions. 

 

“The last thing we want to do is disappoint our guests, so we are pleased that the governments are showing empathy for families in the vaccination arrangements that apply to children,” said Ryan Taibel, Carnival Australia Vice President of Sales. 

 

“The governments reacted quickly to the problem but unfortunately the rule change couldn’t be in place for the recent school holiday period when there was such high demand from families wanting to cruise.

 

“However, it is good to know that the easing of vaccination requirements for children means that families will be able to book their summer cruise holidays with confidence. Our onboard teams can’t wait to welcome our young guests on our ships.”

 

10 October, 2022

Growing Interest in Alaska 2023 as Holland America Line’s 75th Anniversary Season in the Great Land Comes to an End 

Following a full season of 107 cruises and Cruisetours aboard six ships, Holland America Line set sail from Alaska for the last time this year with Eurodam and Koningsdam completing a final port visit at Ketchikan on Thursday, Oct. 6, before ending at Seattle, Washington, and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, respectively on Saturday.

 

“As this successful season winds down, we’re pleased to see growing interest in Alaska 2023,” said Gus Antorcha, president, Holland America Line.  “Alaska is a bucket-list destination and people are excited to travel more. We’re seeing bookings well above levels from similar periods in the seasons prior to the industry pause.”

 

The 2022 Alaska season was Holland America Line’s milestone 75th Anniversary exploring the Great Land, and the cruise line celebrated with a “Love Letters to Alaska” contest, new “Alaska Up Close” shipboard programming, a “We Love Alaska” marketing campaign, and two new partnerships that celebrate the brand’s commitment to serving sustainable Alaska seafood.

 

“Holland America Line’s 75th Anniversary in Alaska got off to an incredible start with Koningsdam as the first ship back in Canada in more than two years, and we kept building momentum with new immersive programming, partnerships that focused sustainability and more,” added Antorcha. “No other cruise line can deliver Alaska like Holland America Line, and this season we focused all of our expertise and passion on giving guests a memorable Alaska experience that touched all elements of their holiday, from enrichment to culinary to shoreside tours.”

 

Koningsdam First Ship to Resume Cruising in Canada

At the start of the season on April 8, Koningsdam became the first cruise ship to return to Canada in over two years with a call at Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. The ship’s call marked 905 days since a cruise ship has visited the port, and it also was a maiden call for the ship. The next day Koningsdam arrived at Vancouver for the start of its Alaska season.

 

‘Alaska Up Close’ Immerses Guests in the Local Culture

Holland America Line launched its “Alaska Up Close” program that deeply immerses guests on Alaska cruises in the local culture with authentic onboard programming, cruise activities and award-winning shore excursions. The exclusive experiences are delivered through experts leading workshops and lectures from those who know Alaska best, EXC Talks exploring the stories of real Alaskans, tours highlighting the best of each destination, and fine dining events showcasing the culinary traditions of the region. 

 

Partnership with Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute

Holland America Line partnered with Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI) to highlight the line’s leadership and commitment to sustainably sourced local seafood. The first formal partnership of its kind between ASMI, the state of Alaska and Alaska’s fishing industry, and a major cruise line highlights Holland America Line’s use of Alaska seafood exclusively on all six ships serving the Great Land.

 

To celebrate, Holland America Line introduced three new seafood dishes created by Culinary Council Member Ethan Stowell: a fried Alaska cod sandwich, Alaskan salmon chop and roasted fennel crusted Alaska halibut. This is in addition to several Alaska seafood dishes that are already on menus throughout the ships. On any Alaska cruise, the line serves more than: 900 kilograms of Alaska Salmon; 450 kilograms of Alaska cod; 360 kilograms of Alaska halibut; 225 kilograms of Alaska rockfish; and so much more.

 

Certified by Responsible Fisheries Management

Holland America Line was awarded Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification — making it the first cruise line to achieve this distinguished credential by serving only fresh, certified sustainable and traceable wild Alaska seafood. RFM certified all six of the cruise line’s ships that sail to Alaska following an independent audit. RFM is a third-party certification program for wild-capture fisheries and is aligned with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries

 

Fans Profess Passion for Alaska in ‘Love Letters to Alaska’ Contest

On Valentine’s Day 2022 Holland America Line launched a “Love Letters to Alaska” contest in celebration on the 75th Anniversary. More than 40,000 hopefuls submitted a letter professing their love for Alaska or why they would like to visit. Selected as the best of the best by a panel of judges who have a connection to Alaska, Washington state or the cruise line, Deborah Thelwell from Phoenix, Arizona, was named the grand prize winner of a seven-day Holland America Line Alaska cruise for two in a Neptune Suite.

 

‘We Love Alaska’ Campaign

With 75 years of Alaska exploration, Holland America Line wanted to show the locals its devotion to the region by having all six Alaska ships proudly display a new “We Love Alaska” logo below the Bridge. Holland America Line encouraged guests to snap a photo of the ship with the logo and post to social media.

 

2023 Alaska Season

From April through September 2023, guests can explore Alaska on 121 cruises aboard six Holland America Line ships. In addition to seven-day itineraries, Holland America Line is bringing back the popular 14-day “Great Alaska Explorer” cruise for two departures. For explorers who want to travel farther into the Great Land, 16 different Cruisetours combine a three-, four- or seven-day Alaska cruise with an inland exploration of Denali National Park. Holland America Line is the only cruise line that extends land tours up to the unspoiled reaches of Canada’s Yukon Territory.

 

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel agent, call 1300 987 322 or visit hollandamerica.com.

10 October, 2022

Cruising Returns to Papua New Guinea as

P&O Cruises Pacific Encounter Makes Inaugural Call

Cruising has officially resumed in Papua New Guinea, with P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Encounter making its maiden visit to the nation last week.

Pacific Encounter, which joined P&O Cruises’ fleet in August, made its inaugural visit to Alotau last Friday, followed by calls to Kiriwina, Rabaul and the Conflict Islands.

The calls are the latest in a series of Pacific visits as countries across the region reopen their maritime borders to cruising. Pacific Encounter’s sister ship, Pacific Explorer, became the first cruise ship to return to New Caledonia this week and led the resumption of cruising to New Zealand and Fiji in August.

President of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia Marguerite Fitzgerald thanked the government and the community of Papua New Guinea and the Milne Bay Province for their continued support of cruising.

“P&O Cruises first started operating dedicated cruises to Papua New Guinea in 2013 so we are thrilled our guests can once again enjoy the nation’s beautiful scenery and vibrant culture,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

“Cruise tourism makes a valuable economic contribution to Papua New Guinea and we’re excited to be working with our partners there as we recommence our cruises to Alotau, Rabaul, Kiriwina and the Conflict Islands.”

Ships from three Carnival Australia brands - P&O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line - are scheduled to make 14 port calls to Papua New Guinea over the remainder of 2022.

Ms Fitzgerald said the itineraries would include longer calls and some overnight stays in Rabaul, delivering greater benefits to the PNG economy.

Carnival Australia’s return to PNG will be followed by the reopening of Vanuatu in November.

“Once cruising to Vanuatu resumes, our Pacific cruise network will be up and running again, which is wonderful news for our guests and the cruise community,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

4 October, 2022

Holland America Line’s Special 150th Anniversary Crossing is a Celebration of the Brand’s Journey

As Holland America Line prepares for its 150th Anniversary in 2023, the cruise line is kicking off a year of celebrations with a special transatlantic crossing in October. Primed to recreate a bygone era of ocean travel through Holland America Line’s history, guests on board the voyage are in for a journey from past to present with special events, activities, and commemorative keepsakes.

 

Departing Oct. 15, 2022, from Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to New York City aboard Rotterdam, the voyage retraces Holland America Line’s first cruise back in 1872 aboard Rotterdam I. Guests will see the brand’s history come alive through onboard enrichment programming, memorable culinary experiences and exclusive entertainment.

 

“Holland America Line has evolved from a shipping company to a brand synonymous with exceptional cruise vacations, and this anniversary crossing is a tribute to the voyage millions of immigrants took to the New World,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “We have guests who are sailing in October because their grandparents immigrated to the United States on a Holland America Line ship or because they’ve been fans for years, and we’ve filled the voyage with special moments that will create wonderful memories for everyone on board.”

 

Exclusive Lincoln Center Piece Composed for Anniversary

A highlight of the crossing will be a performance of a musical piece by Emmy Award-winning producer and Emmy-nominated composer Steven Schoenberg, written exclusively for Holland America Line’s anniversary to accompany a special short film about the cruise line’s journey. The composition will be performed by a 25-piece ensemble of former Holland America Line’s Lincoln Center Stage musicians. The piece will debut on board Oct. 26 in New York on World Stage.

 

During the sailing, guests also will be entertained by Dutch sensation Tiny Little Big Band, bringing their unique sound of jazz and soul with a hint of swing, along with the ship’s Music Walk entertainment featuring BB King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard, Lincoln Center Stage and Rolling Stone Rock Room.   

 

Culinary Delights an Ode to Dutch Heritage

Every evening in the Main Dining Room, menus will showcase Holland America Line's 150-year history with a Classic Entrée reminiscent of a dish served as early as the 1920s. Guests can choose from selections including Royal Rib of Beef a la Medicis, Holland Duckling Port Wine Sauce and Artic Char a la Normande.

 

A special 150th Gala Menu one evening in the Dining Room will be a memorable collection of dishes, with every option — from appetizers to desserts — from a previous Holland America Line voyage. The menu is designed to evoke a feeling of days gone by and features a keepsake cover that guests can take home.

 

At least once during the voyage as a pop-up experience in Tamarind, guests can indulge in a Rijsttafel — a Dutch word that translates to "rice table” — with side dishes served in small portions, accompanied by rice prepared in several different ways. The Dutch adapted the Indonesian tradition so they could enjoy a wide array of dishes at a single sitting with an abundance of flavors and textures.

 

The toasting continues with a “Throwback Happy Hour” that will roll back time and feature drinks priced to when the brand began, as low as 25 cents. Guests who want to learn about wine can join Holland America Line Vice President of Dining and Beverage Operations Anthony Stice for wine tastings and surprises around the ship.

 

Additional culinary delights in honor of Holland America Line’s 150th Anniversary include a special Dutch High Tea, Dutch station in Lido Market that features traditional sweet and savory items, one Dutch-themed lunch with classic Dutch items and one Indonesian-themed lunch, both in Lido Market.

 

Enrichment and Activities Bring History to Life

Presentations reliving the history and roots of the company will be offered by Bill Miller, maritime historian, and Holland America Line authority, while Dr. Jennifer Foray, professor of history at Purdue University, will deliver lectures on Dutch history.

 

Origin Story, a staple on every Holland America Line cruise, is visual telling of the company’s history from founding through present day. The presentation is offered in World Stage with 270-degree wraparound LED screens that envelop the audience in an emotional journey that includes incredible, historical images.

 

Guests looking to exercise their mind can take part in anniversary-themed trivia, while those looking to test their physical skills can participate in classic cruise sporting activities and games. 

 

Bring Home a Memento

Holland America Line will be presenting all guests with an exclusive 150th Anniversary Royal Goedewaagen tile, and limited-edition, specially designed 150th Anniversary retail items will be available in the shipboard shops.

 

April 2023 Crossing Arrives in Rotterdam on Birthday

For travelers looking to continue the celebration, many of the same special culinary and enrichment programs will be offered on another 150th Anniversary Transatlantic departing April 6, 2023, from New York, ending at Rotterdam April 18, the cruise line’s 150th birthday.

 

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1300 987 322 or visit hollandamerica.com.

4 October, 2022

P&O Cruises Returns to Noumea as Cruising Resumes in New Caledonia

The resumption of cruising in the South Pacific is gaining momentum, with P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Explorer today becoming the first cruise ship to return to New Caledonia.

 

Pacific Explorer sailed into Noumea this morning for a historic overnight stay following the reopening of New Caledonia’s maritime borders to cruise tourism.

 

The call is the latest in a series of milestones for P&O’s flagship, which was the first cruise ship to return to Australia in April this year, as well as the first ship to visit New Zealand and Fiji in August.

 

Speaking in Noumea after the ship’s arrival, President of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia Marguerite Fitzgerald said the cruise company was excited to see New Caledonia reopening to cruise tourism.

 

“P&O Cruises has been sailing to New Caledonia for many decades, and so we are thrilled to return to this beautiful nation,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

 

“Cruise tourism makes an important economic contribution to the island nations of the South Pacific, and we are looking forward to renewing our partnerships with the governments, businesses and communities of New Caledonia and strengthening them even further as our ships call once again.”

 

Ships from across Carnival Australia’s family of brands will make more than 20 visits to New Caledonia over the remainder of 2022, with more than 150 calls scheduled for 2023.

 

Ms Fitzgerald said Pacific Explorer’s overnight stay was an exciting development.

 

“New Caledonia has always been one of our guests’ favourite destinations, so we’re keen to give them even more opportunity to explore its offerings, including Noumea’s exciting new Quai Ferry development beside the cruise terminal.”

 

Ms Fitzgerald said Carnival Australia’s cruise lines were also looking at scheduling longer days in Noumea when their ships visited, an initiative made possible with the recent opening of the new Brisbane International Cruise Terminal. 

 

“Thanks to the location and the design of the new Brisbane terminal, we can now reach Noumea faster than we used to, so we can spend more time visiting the city,” she said.  “That’s a real win-win development for New Caledonia and for our guests.”

4 October, 2022

MSC CRUISES REVEALS DETAILS OF MSC SPLENDIDA’S RED SEA ITINERARY FEATURING NEW DESTINATIONS AND EXPANDED EMBARKATION OPTIONS

MSC Cruises has announced that it will offer an enriched Red Sea 7-night itinerary with MSC Splendida for the Northern hemisphere winter 2022/2023 season with 33 shore excursions available including the addition of Cairo, Egypt, and three embarkation ports in Sokhna Port and Safaga in Egypt plus Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.

MSC Splendida’s 7-night sailings call at Sokhna Port, Safaga for Hurghada and Luxor, Egypt; Aqaba for Petra, Jordan; Jeddah for AlUla, Saudi Arabia and Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. 

An extended 13 hour stay in Sokhna Port, Egypt allows for trips to the Great Pyramid of Giza, the only remaining ‘Seven Wonders of the World’, a must-see, once-in-a-lifetime destination.

A programme of shore excursions is available at each port to enable guests to discover and explore incredible sights and attractions in this fascinating part of the world – highlights include the following:

SOKHNA PORT FOR CAIRO, EGYPT - FIVE SHORE EXCURSIONS AVAILABLE: Open the door to Egypt’s capital city, with world-class sights not to be missed. Dive into history at the Great Pyramid of Giza, a wonderfully well-kept sight with the last intact ancient Wonder of the World, one of the most recognisable sights in the world.

Located on the Nile River, Cairo is also known as the ‘city of a thousand minarets’, enriched with its famous mosques including the stunning Citadel of Saladin, madrasas, hammams and fountains.  Visits to vibrant bazaars provide an opportunity to haggle a best price for a souvenir to remember the incredible and lively city.

SAFAGA FOR HURGHADA AND LUXOR, EGYPT – 13 SHORE EXCURSIONS AVAILABLE: The port town of Safaga is just down the beautiful coastline from the popular resort town of Hurghada, known for its incredible beach life. Here, discover stunning white-sand beaches stretching along the coast both north and south of the town, the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine.

For those wanting to tick off a once-in-a-lifetime experience can explore the grandeur of the ancient city of Luxor.  See where pharaohs ruled and step back in time during a visit to Luxor Temple or Karnak Temple, or head to the world-famous Valley of the Kings.

AQABA FOR PETRA, JORDAN – EIGHT SHORE EXCURSIONS AVAILABLE: An undeniable highlight is a visit to the Wonders of Petra - the ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage site in the middle of the Jordanian desert. After laying hidden for centuries, this jewel of early engineering was rediscovered in 1812. Hewn out of the solid rock by Nabatean Arabs more than 2,000 years ago, it served as their capital city and featured a sophisticated water conduit system that turned the city into an artificial oasis.

JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – THREE SHORE EXCURSIONS AVAILABLE: Saudi Arabia’s second largest city blends history and modernity and for a taster of everything it offers.  A City of Culture and History tour offers a journey through centuries of local traditions.

The extraordinary archaeological site of Hegra became the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia and offers more than 100 monuments.  The ancient city of AlUla is situated in a desert setting in the Hijaz mountains and where pilgrims, travellers and permanent settlers have gathered over the centuries.  Surrounded by an ancient oasis, the old town of AlUla is dominated by a citadel dating back to the 10th century and has some 900 brick houses, 400 shops and an atmospheric maze of alleyways and squares. 

YANBU, SAUDI ARABIA – FOUR SHORE EXCURSIONS AVAILABLE: Known as ‘the diving capital of Saudi Arabia’, Yanbu offers adventure-seekers snorkelling at Iona Coral Reef where they can enjoy a kaleidoscope of fish, marine flora and the sunken wreck of the British ship Iona. Enjoy this adventure swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Yanbu with some of the most amazing reef systems in the world. For guests who prefer to kick back and enjoy the sun for their holiday, the Baridi Island Getaway offers hours of relaxation, fun, sun and a crystal-clear sea on a secluded spot of Baridi Island.

For more information on MSC Splendida’s enriched itinerary and to book, visit here 

1 October, 2022

SET SAIL FOR FUN! 
CARNIVAL SPLENDOR DEPARTS ON FIRST AUSTRALIAN PASSENGER CRUISE IN NEARLY THREE YEARS

In a celebration for fun lovers and cruise fans alike, Carnival Splendor has officially departed Sydney on her first Australian passenger cruise in nearly three years.

 

With over 3,500 passengers onboard including 100 VIFPs (Very Important Fun People), the momentous occasion was celebrated with an official ‘Back to Fun’ event at the Overseas Passengers Terminal.

 

Hosted by Carnival Cruise Line President, Christine Duffy and resident Carnival fun-bassador Beau Ryan, the pair enlisted the help of Sydney locals and avid cruise fans, Joe and Van Huddleston to be the first passengers onboard.

 

Cutting the ceremonial ribbon to welcome Splendor home, the Huddlestons also celebrated their 80th cruise onboard Carnival with the departure of the four-day cruise visiting the tropical paradise of Tangalooma – Moreton Island.

 

“Today’s festivities are just a taste of what’s to come for Australia. We know that Aussies have been patiently waiting for Carnival to return to their sunny shores for some time, but now we’re pleased to say that fun is officially back on the water,” said Christine Duffy.

 

“As we celebrate 10 years in Australia later this month and welcome the arrival of our newest ship, Carnival Luminosa, to Brisbane in November, there’s a lot to look forward to from Carnival and even more fun to be had.”

 

First arriving in late 2019, Carnival Splendor was only in Sydney for a matter of months before departing due to a global pause in operations. Now, Australians will again have the opportunity to discover all of the fun Splendor has to offer, from the action-packed green and gold Carnival Waterworks™ featuring the Green Lightning thrill-slide, Splashy Cove waterpark to the luxurious Cloud 9 Spa and Serenity™Retreat.

 

Operating year-round from her Sydney homeport, Carnival Splendor will provide Sydneysiders with a broad array of cruises across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

 

On Splendor’s return, Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Kara Glamore said: “To finally welcome Splendor home is an incredible milestone and a credit to the dedication of our amazing team. It’s been a long journey to get here and we cannot thank our trade partners, our suppliers and, of course, our guests enough for their ongoing support.”

 

For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit  

https://www.carnival.com.au/  

N.B Cruising With Honey was onboard the first sailing

30 September, 2022

MARITIME PAGEANTRY ON GRAND SCALE AND A PROMISE FULFILLED
AS PACIFIC ADVENTURE LEADS CARNIVAL SPLENDOR IN SYDNEY HOMECOMING POINTING TO FANTASTIC 2022-23 SUMMER CRUISE SEASON

In one of Sydney Harbour’s epic maritime events, Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Splendor arrived home today escorted by sister brand ship P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Adventure as the official summer cruise season gets underway for Carnival Australia’s eight brands, signalling growing cruise industry recovery.

 

Carnival Splendor and Pacific Adventure met off the coast sailing together before separating to enter the harbour in majestic single file and momentarily pausing adjacent to Fort Denison, and the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge providing a stunning backdrop.

 

This spectacular Fort Denison ‘moment’ signified the fact that Carnival Splendor and Pacific Adventure are now both home-ported in Sydney to resume cruising on itineraries in Australia and to the South Pacific.

 

Carnival Splendor’s return also fulfilled a promise made by the crew of Carnival Spirit the night before their ship left Sydney in March 2020 as the two-year cruising pause began. They used cabin lights along the length of the ship to spell out the message: ‘WE WILL BE BACK’.

 

Today’s maritime pageantry also served to highlight the rapid recovery of cruising in Australia.

 

Eighteen ships from Carnival Australia’s eight brands are set for a peak summer cruise season in 2022-23 making 667 turnarounds and port calls to 33 destinations across the country.

 

The number of ship turnarounds and calls eclipses the 625 that were announced prior to the 2019-20 season, which was curtailed due to the onset of the covid pandemic.

 

Carnival Australia’s three cruise brands that base ships year round in Australia — P&O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line — are well advanced in their restoration of local operations.

 

In addition, Cunard will base Queen Elizabeth in Australia for its longest ever local season of cruises, while two Holland America Line ships and a Seabourn ship will also spend significant periods in Australian waters.

 

“We are seeing the rapid recovery of cruise tourism in Australia and Carnival Australia’s brands are set to make an important contribution during the 2022-23 summer cruise season,” President of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia Marguerite Fitzgerald said.

 

“The resurgence of cruising and the revitalisation of the $5-billion-a-year cruise industry has happened at a faster rate than could have been expected after more than two challenging years.

 

“As Australia’s main cruising organisation, we are grateful to our guests and suppliers who kept the faith and to federal and state government authorities that backed the resumption of cruise operations.

 

“As our ships have progressively returned to service, we have experienced the excitement of regional destinations as they have seen cruise visitors and opportunity return.”

 

From September 1, 2022 to April 30, 2023, Carnival Australia-brand ships turnarounds and calls will generate strong economic activity around Australia as the $5 billion a year cruise industry continues to rebuild.

 

Carnival Splendor returned to Sydney after a 23-night Transpacific voyage from Seattle. Her arrival comes near to a thousand days since her last Australian sailing.

 

Celebrating Splendor’s return, Carnival Cruise Line President, Christine Duffy said: “After an extremely successful restart in the US, we’re thrilled to bring our signature brand of fun cruising back into Aussie waters. The return of Carnival Splendor to Sydney is a milestone achievement, not just for us, but for the Australian cruising industry as a whole.

 

“Her arrival marks the first cruise ship to enter Australian waters with international passengers in nearly three years. Splendor’s return also kick-starts an exciting time for Carnival Cruise Line as it celebrates 10 years in Australia in October, and Brisbane being the first to experience our newest ship, Carnival Luminosa, in November.”

 

Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin congratulated Carnival Australia and the cruise lines it represents for their efforts in preparing for a spectacular summer season of cruising.

 

“The NSW Government is so excited that the cruise industry is now opening its doors to an increased number of bookings in a safe manner as it roars back to life this summer,” Mr Franklin said.

 

“Cruising is very important to NSW, delivering thousands of visitors to our ports and injecting billions of dollars into the state and regional economies.”

 

The NSW Minister for Transport, Veterans and Western Sydney, David Elliott, also added:

 

“NSW is Australia’s capital of cruise. Prior to the pandemic Australia was the fastest growing cruise market per population in the world, with NSW leading the sector.

 

“Today is a historic occasion for Australia as we welcome back the first international passengers to arrive in well over two and a half years.

 

“It marks an official restart of the international cruise industry for our country – which is great news for tourism in NSW, local businesses and suppliers and our economy.”

 

Six of the 18 Carnival Australia ships sailing local waters will be making their maiden visit to Australia this summer, including P&O Cruises Pacific Adventure, Princess Cruises Grand Princess and Island Princess, Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Luminosa and Holland America Line’s Westerdam and Zuiderdam.

 

Destinations in all Australian states will benefit from cruise calls and turnarounds including:

 

NSW — Sydney, Eden and Newcastle. 

QLD — Brisbane, Moreton Island, Airlie Beach and Cairns. 

VIC — Melbourne and Phillip Island

SA — Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln. 

WA — Fremantle, Albany, Broome and the Kimberley region. 

TAS — Hobart, Burnie and Port Arthur. 

 

“This summer’s epic cruise season confirms that the excitement of cruising has returned to Australia,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

 

“It provides a great trajectory for cruising in Australia to regain its world leading position as the most popular international cruise market.”

 

2022-23 Highlights by Brand

 

P&O Cruises

 

·         As its fleet evolves, Australia’s homegrown cruise line P&O Cruises will welcome the debut of its third ship, Pacific Adventure, this cruise season.

·         Arriving in Sydney in September 2022, Pacific Adventure will embark on her first cruise from the city on October 22.

·         Pacific Adventure will join Pacific Encounter, which debuted in Australia in August 2022, and Pacific Explorer in a full program of itineraries across the summer.

·         Between them the P&O ships will sail on 114 cruises during the 2022-23 season and make more than 200 calls to Australian ports including 20 maiden ship visits to Australian ports.

·         Highlights of the season include the return of P&O’s popular Melbourne Cup and Australian Open Tennis cruises and a new solar eclipse cruise in Western Australia in April 2023.

Princess Cruises

 

·         Princess Cruises 2022-23 summer season will feature three ships homeported in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne - Majestic Princess, Coral Princess and Grand Princess - as well as a world cruise visit by Island Princess

·          The summer season will see the Australian debut of Grand Princess for her maiden season Down Under, the inaugural visit to Australia by Island Princess, and more maiden visits to Australian ports by Coral Princess which arrived in Australia in June 2022 for her first season Down Under.

·         For the first time, all Princess ships operating in Australia will be MedallionClass-enabled.

·         The ships will feature a new range of shore tour excursions led by local experts offering authentic experiences. 

·         Between them the four ships will make 180 calls to Australian ports including almost 30 maiden ship calls.

Carnival Cruise Line

 

This summer will see the return of Carnival Splendor to Australian waters, sailing from Sydney from October 2022, and the Australian debut of Carnival Cruise Line’s latest ship, Carnival Luminosa, which will be based in Brisbane for a series of 28 cruises commencing November 6, 2022.

During the summer season, Carnival Luminosa will make four maiden calls to Australian ports, while Carnival Splendor will make two.

The two Carnival ships will make more than 100 calls to Australian ports over the season.

Cunard

 

All three Cunard ships - Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria - will sail in Australian waters this summer.

Queen Elizabeth will be home ported in Sydney and Melbourne for a record 121-day season offering 29 voyages. 

Highlights of Queen Elizabeth’s season include Cunard’s inaugural Australian gardening and culinary themed voyages as well as the ship’s first Australian circumnavigation. 

Across the season, Cunard’s fleet will make 55 calls to Australian ports.

Holland America

 

Three Holland America Line ships will sail in local waters during the cruise season: Noordam (based in Sydney from November 12-April 8); Westerdam (sailing from Sydney from November 8 to January 3) and Zuiderdam which will make six Australian calls in February 2023 during her world voyage.

Both Westerdam and Zuiderdam will be making their inaugural visits to Australia.

Between them, the three ships will make more than 60 calls to ports around Australia, including more than 20 maiden ship visits.

Noordam and Westerdam will offer 17 voyages from Australia including Noordam’s inaugural 35-day Australia Circumnavigation during November and December 2022.

Seabourn

 

Seabourn will once again host two ships in Australian waters this summer, with Seabourn Odyssey spending four months sailing local waters between November 2022 and March 2023, and Seabourn Sojourn making 14 calls to Australian ports in March as part of her world cruise.

Between them, the two ships will make more than 40 calls to Australian ports across the season including seven maiden ship calls

The season will include Seabourn’s first ever call to Albany in Western Australia when Seabourn Sojourn visits the port on March 17, 2023.

Highlights of Seabourn Odyssey’s season include an array of 12 to 26 day voyages between Australia and New Zealand and a 14-day NZ Yacht Harbours voyage.

P&O Cruises World Cruising

 

P&O Cruises World Cruising’s popular Arcadia will visit Australia as part of her world cruise – a 99-night circumnavigation which departs Southampton on January 3, 2023.

Arcadia will overnight in Sydney on February 19 before sailing north to Brisbane, Airlie Beach and Cairns.

30 September, 2022

MSC VOYAGERS CLUB CARD EXTENDED TO DECEMBER 2023

MSC Cruises is excited to advise they are extending Voyagers Club card benefits until 31 December, 2023 for cards expiring between October 2022 and April 2023.

Voyagers Club members will have the unique opportunity to keep their current membership level and continue to receive all benefits. This is a great moment to book your next cruise and choose the destination you’ve been dreaming about.

Book any cruise sailing between 1 November, 2022 and 28 February, 2023 before 30 November, 2022 and Voyagers Club members will receive 700 extra points credited before their departure. This is on top of the 5% membership discount to assist guests in upgrading their membership level faster.  

Experience the beauty of the Mediterranean without the summer crowds or cruise to Northern Europe in search of fairytale castles, fascinating cities and ancient legends. Bask in the tropical paradise that is the Caribbean and discover the exclusive Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Immerse yourself in the desert dunes and stunning skylines of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar, or dive into the turquoise waters of Egypt, Red Sea and Saudi Arabia. 

The MSC Voyagers Club is designed to reward MSC Cruises’ repeat customers, a way of sharing the love of travelling by sea with members and reinforcing the Company’s consistent commitment to offer guests an exceptional all-around experience before, during and after their cruise. With an ever-growing fleet of elegant ships, an onboard guest offering that is designed around unique experiences and an incredible choice of itineraries all around the world, there are more reasons than ever before to choose a holiday with MSC Cruises.

To book call AU 1300 028 502/ NZ 0508 4278 473 or www.msccruises.com.au www.msccruises.co.nz

27 September, 2022

CUNARD CELEBRATES THE KEEL LAYING OF QUEEN ANNE WITH TRADITIONAL CEREMONY IN VENICE

Cunard recently celebrated the keel laying of its newest ship, Queen Anne, with a traditional, iconic ceremony on 8 September 2022. This ceremony marked the formal start of her construction at the historic Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice, Italy.

The ceremony was attended by the Cunard and Carnival UK leadership team, along with representatives of Fincantieri and their Marghera Shipyard and the guest of honour, Captain of Queen Anne, Inger Thorhauge. 

27 September, 2022

Holland America Line’s Volendam Returns to Guest Cruising Operations

Two-and-a-half years after the cruise industry pause, Holland America Line’s Volendam returned to cruising on Saturday at Trieste (Venice), Italy. The ship embarked guests for a 14-day Holy Land and Ancient Kingdoms Explorer itinerary.

 

To commemorate the occasion, Holland America Line held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the terminal to open embarkation, attended by the ship’s captain and senior officers, with flag-waving fanfare from team members lined up to greet guests as they boarded.

 

“This is a milestone day as Volendam embarks on its first full cruise since the industry-wide pause,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “We are thankful for the incredible work of the shipboard team these past six months, caring for Ukrainian families. As we get back to cruising, we are excited to welcome guests on Volendam for a series of longer voyages that include explorations of the Mediterranean, Amazon and South America.”

 

Volendam has spent the past six months in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, under charter to the City of Rotterdam to house Ukrainian families. The ship was a temporary home for up to 1,500 refugees through the charter, part of a larger commitment from the Netherlands to accommodate 50,000 people who fled the war in their homeland.

 

Following the Holy Land and Ancient Kingdoms cruise, the ship will sail 14-day itineraries to Greece, Turkey, Italy, Croatia and Montenegro. In late October, the ship will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to offer a 28-day Amazon Explorer voyage, followed by a series of Caribbean cruises. In January 2023, the ship departs on the 74-day Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage that circumnavigates the continent.

 

21 September, 2022

Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Announces Partnership with Iconic Luxury Department Store, David Jones

                                          

First Cruise Line to Partner with Australia’s Most Premium Retailer

 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, the leading luxury cruise line, has become the first cruise brand in Australia to partner with iconic premium retailer, David Jones, in a highly integrated campaign across multiple touchpoints, that will help raise awareness of Regent among the department store’s high value shoppers.

 

Taking place during Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia’s “Cruise Month”– a cruise industry awareness campaign throughout September – Regent Seven Seas Cruises has unveiled three branded David Jones windows in the flagship Sydney store.

 

Lisa Pile, Vice President Sales, Australia & New Zealand, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, says the exclusive partnership, which commenced this year, is an exciting first foray for the brand into the luxury retail space, to showcase the line’s all-inclusive, destination-immersive product.

 

“Cruise sentiment among consumers is more positive than ever. We are continuing to witness strong pent-up demand and a growing appetite among luxury travellers for the Unrivalled Experience that Regent offers. This prestigious partnership with iconic brand David Jones will create intrigue, excitement and stimulate inspiration for future voyages, cementing our commitment to providing unforgettable luxury travel experiences for our guests.

 

“With David Jones celebrating 2022 as the year of Wonderworld, there is no better time to launch this joint partnership. Wonderworld represents optimism for novel and exciting journeys ahead filled with new possibilities.

 

“When the David Jones flagship store opened on Elizabeth Street, it positioned itself as ‘an emporium of unrivalled grandeur, a destination in its own right and an integral part of Sydney life’.  Regent Seven Seas Cruises is delighted to unveil our first ever integrated window display and in-store activation in partnership with this store. It is an exciting opportunity for us to introduce Regent’s unrivalled lifestyle brand and experiences onboard and ashore, which aligns with David Jones’ vision to provide quality, innovation, value and sustainability,” said Pile.

 

Through imaginative and immersive displays and stunning visual showmanship, the theatrical, grand scale windows beside the entrance on Elizabeth Street at David Jones’ flagship store in Sydney are a spectacular sight for passersby. The iconic windows will be integrated with QR codes for shoppers to scan for more information on the all-inclusive cruise line, and will be ‘live’ from now for two weeks ending, Sunday 2 October 2022.

 

The dramatic displays showcase a snapshot of the most captivating locales around the globe that The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet™ visits, including popular Mediterranean itineraries that call upon ports such as Lisbon, Rome and Malta, as well as sharing a preview of the unique dining experience onboard the cruise line’s newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, launching in November 2023. The glamorous French era of the 1920s serves as the inspiration for the chic new design of the ship’s French restaurant Chartreuse, from the Chanel suit and little black dress to the Art Deco movement in Paris.

 

In store, David Jones has a series of digital screens to showcase the key ports visited by Regent’s luxurious fleet of ships, and its Unrivalled Space at Sea™.

 

On Level 7, a pop-up Regent Cruise Lounge is live for four days from Tuesday 27 September until Friday 30 September 2022, offering a relaxed and inviting concierge-style space for shoppers to enjoy a glass of champagne while they chat to a Regent Cruise Consultant about their next dream voyage. No prior appointment is required.

Guests will learn more about the recently launched 2024-25 Voyage Collection and the 160 new voyages sailing on board The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet™. Voyages encompass every continent in the world, from Africa and Arabia, North America and Europe, then closer to home with Asia, Australia and New Zealand. In addition, there are fascinating cruises in South America and the South Pacific, as well as scenic sailings of Antarctica.

 

Visitors will also learn about the inaugural visit of Seven Seas Explorer® to Australia and New Zealand this summer, calling in Sydney on 29 December 2022, after docking in Darwin and stopping at Thursday Island, Cairns, Airlie Beach and Brisbane. The luxury ship will do a Sydney to Auckland and Auckland to Sydney sailing culminating in an 18-night sailing leaving Sydney on January 26 bound for Bali.

Visiting more than 450 ports around the world, Regent’s spacious and stylish ships offer almost all-suite, all-balcony accommodation – with fares including Unlimited Shore Excursions and gourmet speciality dining – and an enviable staff-to-guest ratio, providing travellers with a highly personalised service onboard.

For more information, visit RSSC.com, call 1300 455 200 (AU), or 0800 625 692 (NZ), or contact your preferred travel advisor.

 

21 September, 2022

50 days and counting: Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth returns with first-ever local themed voyages, star power and inaugural circumnavigations

 

With select sailings offering up to 25% off when booked before end of November

 

In less than 50 days on 7 November 2022, Cunard line’s iconic Queen Elizabeth returns to Australian shores for the first time since early 2020. Fremantle in WA will host Queen Elizabeth’s first local call this homeport season.

 

For many, the arrival of a Cunard Queen marks the beginning of the local summer cruise season. Throughout her 121-day record Australian residence, Queen Elizabeth invites guests to experience once-in-a-lifetime encounters and unique itineraries.

 

The inaugural Great Australian Culinary Voyage features Australian produce and bespoke menus created by leading chefs Matt Moran, Mark Olive and Darren Purchese. The 5-night roundtrip from Sydney departing on 28 January 2023, features calls in Melbourne and Burnie where the culinary experiences continue on shore with one-off excursions curated especially for the sailing.

 

Gardening royalty Graham Ross and Jamie Durie will share their knowledge onboard Cunard’s first Gardening Journey departing Melbourne on 4 February 2023. Throughout the 7-night-sailing, these and many more special guests will share their best tips and the top trends in gardening via informative talks, hands-on workshops and on-shore experiences.

 

Australian personalities Sir Peter Cosgrove, Dawn Fraser and Nova Peris will inspire guests with anecdotes from their lives on Queen Elizabeth’s inaugural circumnavigations of Australia.

 

For a special fare starting from AU$7,029 (instead of AU$10,349) per person twin share in a Balcony Stateroom guests can join the ship’s first ever circuit of Australia featuring calls to iconic cities and regional gems such as Port Douglas, Airlie Beach, Esperance, Eden and Kangaroo Island departing Fremantle on 7 November 2022.

 

The last time a Cunard Queen circled the continent was back in 2014, so this is a very rare opportunity for travellers to enjoy what the prestigious British cruise line is all about on an extended sailing: impeccable service, exemplary fine dining, grand Gala Nights, dynamic West End style entertainment and enough room to feel special, unwind and relax.

 

Cunard’s signature experiences which set the brand apart include daily Afternoon Tea, Gala Balls, art deco inspired public spaces, grand on-board libraries, dance classes and deck games.

 

A range of select Cunard sailings are currently available for a reduced fare with savings of up to 25% as part of the brand’s Annual Savings Event when booked until 30 November 2022.

 

For more information and to book, visit www.cunard.com.

For Circumnavigation ex Fremantle, visit https://www.cunard.com/en-au/find-a-cruise/Q231C/Q231C

For Circumnavigation ex Sydney, visit https://www.cunard.com/en-au/find-a-cruise/Q232A/Q232A

 

20 September, 2022

MSC WORLD EUROPA OFFERS NEW INNOVATIVE ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT IN HIGH-TECH VENUES FOR HOURS OF ENDLESS FUN

MSC Cruises’ first World Class ship to offer guests of all ages an abundance of exciting entertainment options including new shows, immersive experiences, surprises and more

Guests can enjoy five new themed parties, two new interactive big screen game shows, multiple state-of-the-art attractions and more in high-tech venues across the ship.

MSC World Europa, MSC Cruises’ most innovative and environmentally advanced flagship, is set to feature new and exciting next-level entertainment options that complement the ship’s innovative design and cutting-edge technology and will bring the onboard guest experience to a whole new level.

 

Guests of all ages will be able to enjoy awe-inspiring entertainment from morning to night, including three new concert-style shows in the multipurpose Luna Park Arena; five new full-scale theatre productions in the World Theatre; four themed experiences in the Panorama Lounge; and surprise, pop-up live exhibits throughout the ship. 

 

Steve Leatham, MSC Cruises Global Head of Entertainment, said: “The brand-new interactive entertainment featured on board MSC World Europa will be unlike anything that our guests have ever experienced, combining futuristic technology and unique specially designed venues. From surprise moments that will take place during the entirety of the cruise to spectacular shows and state-of the-art venues, our guests will be blown away by the abundance of fantastic entertainment options on board as they find themselves at the heart of productions and immerse themselves in incredible performances and activities.”

 

The rich assortment of entertainment on board includes:

 

LUNA PARK ARENA WITH THREE INTERACTIVE SHOWS

The new Luna Park Arena is a 300-seat multifunctional entertainment venue that will host films, game shows, kids’ activities and different themed parties. During the day, the venue will host a variety of activities for all ages including a new VR Drone Academy, a Digital Dance Academy with three bespoke Dance with Flavia classes with Strictly Come Dancing champion Flavia Cacace-Mistry, Doremi’s Wake Up Rave for the ship’s youngest guests and two new large scale interactive gameshows. Throughout the cruise, guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a series of challenges aimed at breaking Guinness World Record titles through daytime events and an evening large scale show in the arena.

 

At night the venue comes to life once again with three interactive concerts bringing together technology and stunning visuals to create unique experiences for guests. Three new interactive shows include:

Symphonic Ibiza: Guests can enjoy a night of music and mystique with a big screen orchestra, modern Euro dance music, three specialty artists, dancers, a DJ, two vocalists, and an after-party club night.

Supershow: This unique K POP party will allow guests to let loose as they learn dance routines and sing along with big songs. The show will feature specialist street dancers, acrobats, dancers, and vocalists. Participants will also be able to see themselves in a Boogie Cam on screen as they follow along with the dances.

Crimson Club: This all-out action adventure for the whole family features a movie-themed stunt show with pop-up surprise moments in the auditorium. The audience will get to pick a side and interact via movie spy cams and actors mingling in the crowd.

 

FIVE NEW FULL-SCALE THEATRE SHOWS

The main stage on board, the World Theatre, will feature five new original large-scale theatre shows focused on exploration, travel, the sea, theatre and sustainability. The shows will have exciting new features that will leave the audience astounded including amazing talent, LED visuals and incredible scenery and props, as well as 350 spectacular custom-made costumes. Shows include Eko with costumes made from recycled material, the original Amelia Earhart show with an E-Bike Stunt Wheel, A Night on Broadway featuring classic theatre show tunes that the audience will know and love, Cadmo The Landwalker focusing on exploration and Yellow Submarine which will feature amazing circus and magical elements based on Beatles songs.

 

PANORAMA LOUNGE

Located at the aft of the ship, the stunning Panorama Lounge will have music-themed experiences to enjoy over pre-show drinks, an interactive floor featuring unique designs that will transform the space and changing screens that reflect the theme of the night.

 

During the day, guests can tap into their creativity in the lounge with the help of interactive screens that will project their drawings onto the lounge’s floor as GIFs or watch as the floor turns into a giant colouring book for all ages to fill in unique designs.  At night, guests can enjoy four immersive 90-minute music experiences that showcase styles of dance from over the decades and across the globe including samba, tango, waltz, disco, lindy hop and many more. With live bands, dancers, singers, aerialists and acrobats, each experience will follow different themes, such as Let’s Get Loud with fiesta themed music like “Despacito” and “Bailamos,” Ultimate Disco featuring bright colours and classics including “Boogie Wonderland” and “Turn the Beat Around,” Bandstand Boogie taking guests back with old-school tunes and Rock Evolution – a rock and roll dance party featuring the iconic hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” that will get guests up and out of their seats. Then stay for a little longer as the venue transitions into a themed nightclub-style after party.

 

STREET THEATRE

Not only can shows and interactive activities be enjoyed in the dedicated venues on MSC World Europa, but there will also be a variety of surprise moments that pop up throughout different areas of the ship during the entirety of the cruise. The two different living exhibitions focus on Instagrammable content that centre on the themes of Earth and Ocean. Artists, actors, musicians and inflatables will contribute to these surprise experiences on the ship that will stop guests in their tracks as they move their way through MSC World Europa.

 

UNBEATABLE ATTRACTIONS FOR ALL

The ship is also outfitted with unique attractions and activities that will provide even more options for entertainment. The first of its kind, The Venom Drop @ The Spiral is the longest at sea dry slide that spans 11 decks with sleek curves that will not only be popular with those who love adventure but will also act as an impressive architectural centrepiece. In addition, the ship will feature the fleet’s largest waterpark with VR technology. Throughout the cruise, guests can also participate in a variety of activities during their days at sea, from roller disco and rock & roll bingo to bumper cars and a football-themed challenge. Completing MSC World Europa’s high-tech entertainment offering, a Sundowner DJ party that will take place each evening with a holographic DJ experience – a truly unforgettable way to enjoy a sunset at sea. 

 

 

For more information on MSC World Europa, visit here

20 September, 2022

KANGAROO ISLAND EMOTIONAL REUNION WITH PRINCESS CRUISES

Princess Cruises Associate Hotel Manager Renier Van Rooyen (left) and Staff Captain Mauro Usai (right) with South Australian Tourism Commission’s Mark Gill (middle)

Kangaroo Island will today welcome its first cruise ship in more than two and a half years, sharing a special connection with both the valuable sector of the visitor economy and the visiting cruise line.

 

Princess Cruises was the first cruise line to visit the island following the devastating bushfires in January 2020, with a special visit by the Sun Princess “in a show of support for the local community”.

 

Many guests of that voyage made donations to South Australia’s bushfire relief and Princess Cruises directed revenue from the day’s shore excursions to the state’s bushfire appeal. The visit was also hoped to help send a message to the world that Kangaroo Island was ‘open for business’.

 

Today’s arrival of the Coral Princess is one of a record-breaking number of visits scheduled for South Australia in 2022/23 – including 32 visits to Penneshaw – and the beginning of a restart of a once $145 million sector of the state’s visitor economy.

 

With almost 2,000 passengers and 895 crew, the Coral Princess will return to Penneshaw on another itinerary in April 2023, while other Princess ships are also scheduled for Penneshaw this season through as far ahead as April 2024. This includes one of the biggest ships to visit Kangaroo Island, the Majestic Princess, which carries up to 3,560 passengers and 1,346 crew.

 

Other cruise ships scheduled for Kangaroo Island this season (September 2022 to April 2023) include P&O’s Pacific Explorer with up to 1,998 passengers and 924 crew, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth with up to 2,081 passengers and 980 crew; and Holland America’s Westerdam carrying up to 1,964 passengers and 800 crew.

 

The South Australian Tourism Commission has been working with industry, SA Health, and regional stakeholders in preparation for the restart of cruising in South Australia. This included partnering with the Australian Cruise Association (ACA), Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and Carnival Australia to deliver a series of practical workshops in July across the state, including Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln.

 

Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said it was terrific news for Kangaroo Island to see the return of international cruise which means a lot to so many small businesses and to community morale.

 

“Prior to the pandemic, cruise contributed $20 million to Kangaroo Island’s visitor economy, and that first visit after the bushfires was a real spirit lifter for the region,” Minister Bettison said.

 

“After a difficult two and a half years, cruising is back in Kangaroo Island and this season will bring tens of thousands of visitors to the region, who will spend with local vendors at the Penneshaw Markets and take onshore tours from Flinders Chase National Park and Seal Bay to Kingscote and Cape Willoughby.”

 

Princess Cruises Senior Vice President Asia Pacific, UK + Europe, Stuart Allison said today’s call was the first of 13 calls Princess ships will make to Kangaroo Island between September 2022 through to April 2024.

 

“It is an honour for Coral Princess to be the first cruise ship to return to Kangaroo Island following the pause in operations,” Mr Allison said.

 

“We’re proud of our special and personal bond with Kangaroo Island which was solidified when we brought the first ship to the island following the devastating bushfires in 2020. The local community welcomed us with open arms then, as they have done again today.

 

“Today we’ll see almost 2,000 guests explore the island with a number participating in pre-purchased shore excursions supporting local tour operators in addition to visiting cafes and hospitality businesses across the island. Kangaroo Island remains a key bucket list destination for our guests, with many guests sailing here from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and the United States.

 

“I’d like to thank Kangaroo Island’s tourism sector for the warmth of the welcome for Coral Princess’s guests and their efforts to make the first cruise ship call a resounding success.

 

“We are pleased that with today’s visit Coral Princess has sent a message that Kangaroo Island is open for cruise tourism once again.”

 

Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari owner Tony Coppins said the island was “very excited to welcome cruise ships back”.

 

With a range of half-day and full-day tours booked by ship passengers on Monday, Mr Coppins said visitors would be exploring and experiencing the best of Kangaroo Island, and the return of cruise ships provides an encouraging step forward in the recovery process for the tourism industry.

 

“There are really positive ongoing effects of the cruise ships returning, and they are felt right across the island,” he said.

 

“We’ve got nine buses out on Monday, doing a variety of tours. The cruise sector not only creates employment on the island but provides more opportunities for tourism operators and is an integral part of driving income for many local businesses.”

 

Mr Coppins said tours on Monday included visits to Seal Bay, Cape Willoughby Lighthouse, Flinders Chase National Park, and Kingscote, as well as local family businesses such as Island Beehive, Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Raptor Domain, Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Vivonne Bay Store, Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari, and Dudley Wines.

 

Chair of the Kangaroo Island Tourism Alliance, Susi Whitehead said the return of cruise ships to Kangaroo Island was “vitally important” to the visitor economy, especially the tour and transport sector which has been hit hard in the past two years. 

 

“Confidence is building, the Island is ready to welcome cruising back and provide those visitors with our exceptional hospitality,” she said.

16 September, 2022

Princess Cruises Unveils Bespoke Next Generation Ship 
Sun Princess

Epic Sphere Atrium, First Ever Geodesic Dome, Innovative Entertainment Venues and Premium Suites Headline the largest Princess Ship ever built

Princess Cruises today revealed a stunning new and bespoke ship platform that will be the brand’s largest ship ever accommodating over 4,000 guests.  The new Sun Princess will boast stunning views, expansive venues, innovative entertainment venues, multi-story dining rooms and next level stateroom accommodations while remaining true to the smooth clean lines and design aesthetics inspired by the Seawitch icon and popularised in the original “Love Boat” TV series and returning the venerable “Sun Princess” name back into operation.  

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard and scheduled to debut in early 2024, the 175,500-ton vessel is the largest Princess ship ever constructed and embraces Italian heritage by featuring a next-level, brand-iconic Piazza and The Dome, a cutting-edge entertainment space inspired by the terraces of Santorini. Sun Princess will also feature the exclusive Princess Medallion that will extend Princess’s leadership position in delivering exceptional personalised experiences at unmatched scale.  Princess is unique in the ability to deliver incredible cruise ship amenities typical of the largest ships in the world while delivering personalised service found on the industry’s smallest ships. 

“Sun Princess is a new and bespoke ship platform, designed to simultaneously embrace Princess heritage while boldly pressing into the future with iconic, elegant and pure lines unique to our brand,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “A show-stopping, first-of-its-kind Dome on the top deck and suspended glass Piazza in the center of Sun Princess offer innovative designs showcasing expansive ocean views for incredible opportunities to connect with the sea.”

Innovative Guest Experience

Infused with light, the ship connects guests with dynamic views of the world and innovative experiences, from service to food to entertainment. The line’s Piazza, spans three stories, forming an iconic architectural feature offering guests an outward looking suspended space with comfortable seating and areas to enjoy the ocean views in every direction. An impressive LED screen is also showcased in the center of the Piazza that can be moved and configured to deliver live entertainment programming. Adjacent to the Piazza Atrium will be a new coffee shop, Coffee Currents, Bellini’s Cocktail Bar, along with Princess favorites like Crooners Bar and Alfredo’s Pizzeria.

 

The other stand-out structure onboard Sun Princess is The Dome. Inspired by the terraces of Santorini, it is a multi-level covered deck and first-of-its-kind true glass-enclosed dome ever constructed on a cruise ship. During the day, the Dome features an indoor/outdoor pool, and unique water feature, in a comfortable and relaxed space. At night, the pool becomes a stage, and the Dome completely transforms into an entertainment venue with a South Beach vibe, state-of-the-art lighting effects and the ability to deliver stunning aerial performances.

The ships overall interior design embraces the outside and celebrates the romance of the sea, offering outward views from morning until night. With brighter and lighter décor and finishes, Sun Princess delivers more memorable vantage points to take in the stunning destinations and ocean vistas guests want to experience on Princess cruise vacations.

Newly Appointed Suites and Staterooms

With 2,157 total staterooms, including 50 suites and 100 connecting rooms, the 21-deck Sun Princess features more outdoor balcony space and all balcony accommodations feature an in-room sofa. 

Also launching exclusively on Sun Princess will be a new level of suite accommodations, the Signature Collection. In addition to premium stateroom amenities, Signature Collection suites include access to the Signature Restaurant, Signature Lounge, and Signature Sun Deck, a private area of the Sanctuary. 

With Sun Princess, Club Class accommodations onboard this ship, and all Princess ships will now be called Reserve Collection, which are the best-located mini suite staterooms. Within the Reserve Collection will be Reserve Collection Cabana rooms, resort-style staterooms that offer a balcony and private cabana, an extra-large outdoor lounge space. These premium accommodations also include access to the Reserve Collection Restaurant.

In addition to the ship’s stunning design are the sustainable elements being engineered in the vessel. Sun Princess is part of Carnival Corporation’s green cruising focus and is one of 11 new ships in the corporate fleet powered by LNG fuel technology. 

The cruise line also announced that Sun Princess will sail an inaugural northern spring/summer season of Mediterranean cruises followed by Western and Eastern Caribbean voyages out of Port Everglades, Florida in the northern autumn of 2024.

The inaugural season for Sun Princess begins in early 2024 with Mediterranean itineraries. The ship’s first three voyages will go on sale at 8.00AM AEST Friday, September 16 for Elite guests and midnight for the general public. 

This is the third ship to be honoured with the Sun Princess name, adding to the legacy of the first ship sailing from 1974 to 1988 and the second ship sailing from 1995 to 2020. At that time, she had the largest number of balcony cabins, and the cruise line’s first 24-hour cafe.

More details about Sun Princess, including additional dining details, entertainment, and onboard features, will be unveiled over the coming months. 

A second, next-generation Sphere class ship is also on order, slated to be delivered by Fincantieri in spring 2025. 

For more details on Princess cruises including Sun Princess visit the company’s website at princess.com, call 13 24 88 or connect with a professional travel advisor. Travel agents are encouraged to call 1300 587 473 or visit onesourcecruises.com.au 

 

16 September, 2022

A PERFECT PAIRING: SATIATE YOUR TRAVEL AND TASTE BUDS ONBOARD CELEBRITY ECLIPSE WITH FOUR PILLARS GIN THIS SEASON

Globally renowned for raising the bar on innovative food and beverage-focused experiences at sea, Celebrity Cruises is excited to announce a new partnership with Australia’s leading craft distillery, Four Pillars Gin, serving up a range of exclusive experiences for guests on board Celebrity Eclipse this 2022-23 season.

 

Celebrity Cruises will be the first cruise line to offer custom curated Four Pillars cocktails at sea, with four craft gin cocktails available throughout the entire 2022-23 season at ten bars onboard Celebrity Eclipse. Guests will be able to gaze out at the glistening Pacific Ocean, while sipping their favourite gin cocktails with botanicals from the very regions they’re visiting. The gins include Four Pillars’ award-winning Rare Dry, Fresh Yuzu, Bloody Shiraz and Navy Strength.

 

Offering the ultimate destination-inspired holiday, travellers on the five-night sailing to Tasmania, departing Sydney on 10 March 2023, will be hosted by Four Pillars Senior Brand Ambassador, Wes Baimbridge, marking Celebrity Cruises’ first ever gin-focused sailing. Pairing two award-winning trailblazers in the food and drinks space, culinary-curious travellers will have the opportunity to refine their palate with exclusive gin tasting and food pairing experiences.

 

Celebrity Cruises Vice President and Managing Director of Australia and APAC, Tim Jones, said, “This partnership comes at a really exciting time for the brand, as we celebrate the upcoming debut of Celebrity Eclipse and the return of Celebrity Cruises to local waters. We’ve been patiently waiting 930 days for this moment and we’re putting it all on the table with incredible new experiences like this collaboration with Four Pillars, enhancing the guest experience even further. Together, we will help guests ‘Journey WonderFULL’ as we serve up bespoke drinks as exciting as the diverse destinations we’re visiting.”

 

Celebrity Cruises Director of Beverage Operations, Daniele Salamone, added, “Our onboard mixologists, along with our top culinary talent in the kitchens, are passionate about delivering unparalleled experiences. This partnership will elevate our already stellar offering for international and local guests alike, complemented by our menus designed by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, and dishes made fresh daily - from scratch - right on board.”

Four Pillars Gin Co-Founder, Stuart Gregor, said, “With cruising back on the agenda, we are thrilled to be partnering with Celebrity Cruises. It is an exciting time for us at Four Pillars with the world opening up again and can think of nothing better than a gin in hand while sailing down the coast of Australia.”

 

Showcasing the finest of each destination guests will visit, highlights of the Celebrity Eclipse five-night gin-centric itinerary includes:

Sail Away Party with Four Pillars, featuring a complimentary gin cocktail to celebrate the start of the sailing, plus more surprises.

Intimate Q&As with Wes Baimbridge, Four Pillars Senior Brand Ambassador, to discover the story behind the brand and crafting of Four Pillars’ award-winning gins.

Series of exclusive events throughout the sailing including gin tasting sessions to learn the essentials of food and gin pairing; gin and oyster flights; exclusive gin appreciation and pairing dinner; and hands-on cocktail masterclasses.

 

This sailing is one of 17 itineraries available to book onboard the award-winning Celebrity Eclipse, which will debut in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific on 22 October 2022. Travellers can look forward to a range of 3- to 13-night itineraries, where they will be immersed in the cosmopolitan cities, world-class beaches and exotic wildlife of the region. With departures from both Sydney and Auckland, guests of Celebrity Eclipse will experience new onboard and shore-side experiences that focus on luxury and relaxation, destination immersion, and culinary exploration.

 

Boasting 21 world-class restaurants and bars, stylish accommodations, an exclusive resort-within-a-resort area for suite guests at The Retreat®, plus an array of indulgent treatments at The Spa, Celebrity Eclipse exudes relaxed luxury. For guests looking to relax outdoors, Celebrity Eclipse is one of the only ships in the world that features a ½ acre of real lawn grass; The Lawn Club is the perfect spot to enjoy endless ocean views, catch some sun, play outdoor games or even watch a live jazz concert.

 

And, because holidays should be effortless from the start, guests can choose to have Wi-Fi, drinks and service charges All IncludedSM, simplifying the luxury holiday experience.

 

For more information on Celebrity Cruises’ new sailings, guests and travel advisors can visit celebritycruises.com/au or call 1800 764 500.

 

15 September, 2022

100 days to the arrival of the all-new Norwegian Spirit for her inaugural season in local waters with special offers for her Australia and New Zealand sailings 

 

A completely reimagined ship following her extensive bow-to-stern USD$100m renovation – the most expensive refurbishment in NCL’s history – Norwegian Spirit’s arrival on 22 December 2022 also marks NCL’s long-awaited return to Australian waters after nearly three years.

 

Fares lead in at AUD$3,350 per person for a  12-day Cruise to Australia & New Zealand: Sydney, Melbourne & Wellington to Auckland from Sydney, Australia on Norwegian Spirit departing Sydney 4 March 2023.

 

Fares include the current promotional offer of up to 40% savings and NCL’s famous FREE at Sea offers, including a free beverage package, free specialty dining package, free shore excursions credit and free Wi-Fi package.

 

Visiting 10 ports in 12 days on board the spectacular adult-centric Norwegian Spirit, this Sydney to Auckland sailing combines highlights of Australia’s east coast with the dramatic natural beauty and character-filled towns of New Zealand. Highlights include the pristine beaches and famous oyster of Eden, discovering artisan crafts, cuisine, and unique wildlife in Burnie, marvelling at the dramatic glaciers and cliffs of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, the art deco architecture and eclectic wines of Napier, and the bubbling geysers and mud baths of Tauranga.

 

*Terms and Conditions apply. For full details, click here. Pricing is correct as at 12 September 2022.

 

Click here to learn more about Norwegian Spirit’s Australia/New Zealand cruises in 2022, 2023 and 2024.

 

For more information or to book a cruise with NCL, please contact a travel professional; call NCL in Australia on 1300 255 200 or in New Zealand on 0800 969 283; or visit www.ncl.com.

 

About Norwegian Spirit:

 

Designed with adult cruisers in mind, at just over 2,000 guests, Norwegian Spirit is packed full of features that appeal to the adult cruiser, including the adults-only Spice H20 pool retreat, which transforms into an open-air cocktail lounge and nightclub after dark, as well as the newly doubled-in-size Mandara Spa, featuring a Thermal Suite with steam room, sauna, shower experience and heated-tile loungers. And with 14 dining options to choose from – such as the rich French flavours of Le Bistro and contemporary Italian at Onda by Scarpetta – guests can look forward to holidaying their way, with no set dining times, tables or dress codes. Enthralling entertainment options include ‘Elements’, a visual feast of flying, dance and magic; as well as upbeat pop-country music and stage extravaganza, ‘Blazing Boots’. At night, guests will relish the chance to retreat to their elegantly reimagined stateroom – from spacious suites to balcony staterooms with floor-to-ceiling windows for the ultimate ocean vistas.

 

15 September, 2022

PRINCESS CRUISES’ CORAL PRINCESS SAILS INTO MELBOURNE FOR SPECTACULAR WELCOME HIGHLIGHTING THE STUNNING RETURN OF CRUISING TO AUSTRALIA’S EVENTS CAPITAL

Sporting a giant ‘We love Melbourne’ banner on its bow, Coral Princess today became the first cruise ship to sail into Melbourne in more than two years, heralding the return of cruising to Australia’s undisputed major events capital.

 

Coral Princess is the vanguard for multiple Carnival Australia cruise lines basing ships in Melbourne for defined cruise seasons or having ships call during the remainder of this year and in 2023.

These include Cunard’s iconic Queen Elizabeth which will be home-porting in Melbourne from mid-November.

 

Ships from P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Cruise Line will again play a major role in bringing thousands of interstate visitors to Melbourne’s major events including the Melbourne Cup and the Australian Open Tennis.

 

Three ships — P&O’s Pacific Adventure (sailing from Sydney) and Pacific Encounter (sailing from Brisbane), and Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Splendor (sailing from Sydney) — will bring more than 7,000 visitors to the Melbourne Cup. P&O’s Pacific Adventure will also bring guests to the Australian Open Tennis in January.

 

Beginning in November, three brands — P&O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises and Cunard — will home port ships in Melbourne for cruise seasons with all the economic benefit that this involves for suppliers and the ‘cruising ecosystem’.

 

Thirteen ships will be visiting or home porting in Melbourne during the current summer cruise season. Between them, they’ll make 70 calls — including nine overnight stays — and 11 calls to Phillip Island.

 

The 70 Melbourne calls include 31 turnarounds by Grand Princess, Pacific Explorer and Queen Elizabeth with the total economic value from Carnival Australia brand ships set to reach nearly $115 million this season.

 

A welcoming committee of the city’s events and arts community and a host of Victorian fresh produce and beverage suppliers were at Station Pier to greet Coral Princess on arrival this morning.

 

“It is great to see cruising return to Melbourne after such a long absence with the city ready to participate in the growth of cruise tourism and the rebuilding of Australia’s $5 billion a year cruise industry,” said Marguerite Fitzgerald, President of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia.

 

“Melbourne is a natural starting off point for cruises to destinations in South Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand.”

 

Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, said “Today marks an important milestone for the state’s tourism and recovery efforts. It’s fantastic to see cruise ships back on our shores with passengers from all over the globe.”

 

“Australia remains high on the list for many US travellers and new connections direct to Victoria mean that millions of visitors will start their trip down under right here – boosting tourism and supporting local jobs and businesses,” Minister Dimopoulos said.

 

Stuart Allison, Senior Vice President Asia Pacific for Princess Cruises said it was exciting for Coral Princess to be the first ship to return to Melbourne following the cruise industry’s restart as well as being the first ‘smart ship’ MedallionClass vessel to visit the city.

 

“Princess Cruises is committed to the Australian cruise market for the long term and we value our loyal guests for whom cruising from Melbourne is their holiday choice and they will have opportunities for this during Grand Princess’s dedicated Melbourne cruise season,” Mr Allison said.

 

Reflecting on the strong association of Carnival Australia with Australia’s events capital, Victoria Racing Club Chief Executive Officer Steve Rosich commented on the importance of cruising to major events in Melbourne.

 

“We have had a strong relationship with P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Cruise Line for over 50 years and are delighted to continue this partnership,” Mr Rosich said.

 

“Cruising drives important interstate visitation to the Melbourne Cup Carnival and this year we can expect more than 7000 cruise passengers at Flemington over the four days of Cup Week to experience the fun, fashion, food, entertainment and world-class racing that the Melbourne Cup Carnival has to offer.”

 

About Carnival Australia

Carnival Australia is Australia’s main cruise organisation and represents eight iconic cruise lines — P&O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Costa and P&O Cruises World Cruising. A large number of these Carnival Australia brands will have ships home porting or calling in Melbourne as cruising returns to the city.

 

P&O CRUISES AUSTRALIA

Pacific Explorer based in Melbourne from November 15, 2022 to February 17, 2023

17 cruises with itineraries including South Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand.

 

PRINCESS CRUISES

Grand Princess based in Melbourne from November 4, 2022 to March 31, 2023

20 cruises with itineraries including New Zealand, South Pacific and South Australia.

 

CUNARD

Queen Elizabeth based in Melbourne from November 13, 2022 to February 22, 2023.

11 cruises with itineraries that include Tasmania and New Zealand and the inaugural Gardening Journey and Christmas Voyage.

 

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

• 2 Carnival Splendor calls from Sydney on six-night cruises to the Melbourne Cup in November 2022 and 2023.

 

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

• 8 calls by Westerdam and Noordam

 

SEABOURN

Seabourn Odyssey to make six calls to Melbourne from December 8, 2022 to March 18 and six to Phillip Island over the same period

Seabourn Odyssey to call in Melbourne for an overnight stay on March 10-11, 2023.

 

15 September, 2022

P&O Cruises Australia and authorities in Vanuatu will work together to enable the careful restart of cruising to Vanuatu’s beautiful destinations.   

Two P&O cruises from Australia in November will be used to test protocols and procedures in Vanuatu to allow for a broader restart of cruising to the archipelago.  

  

The careful reopening of Vanuatu’s maritime border to cruise tourism builds on an association with the cruise line that has been built over decades and P&O’s 90-year history of cruising to the Pacific including, in more recent years, the employment of hundreds of Ni Vanuatu crew on its ships.  

 

“Following on from the reopening of cruising to New Zealand, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu’s decision to reopen completes the network of cruise destinations that makes the Pacific one of the world’s most dynamic regions for cruise tourism,” said President of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia Marguerite Fitzgerald.  

 

“We are grateful to the government of Vanuatu for placing their confidence in P&O Cruises Australia to help pave the way for the broader reintroduction of cruising to their country.  

  

“We respect the government’s decision to reintroduce cruising in such a careful and respectful way and reaffirm our commitment to Vanuatu’s island communities for whom cruising is such an important part of their economic life.”   

  

Two P&O cruises in November will underpin the staged reintroduction of cruise calls to Vanuatu.  

 

Guests on Pacific Encounter, departing Brisbane on November 5, will be the first to return to Vanuatu with a call to Port Vila scheduled on November 9.  

 

Pacific Adventure, departing from Sydney on November 14, will be next with calls to Mystery Island on November 18, Port Vila on November 19 and Santo on November 20.  

 

“It will be fantastic to reconnect with island communities in Vanuatu and we hope and expect that these initial P&O cruises will lead to Vanuatu’s reopening to ships from our other brands including Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line,” Ms Fitzgerald said.  

14 September, 2022

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE’S GREEN EGGS AND HAM BREAKFAST RETURNS FLEETWIDE STARTING 1 OCT

For the first time since the line’s pause in guest operations, Carnival Cruise Line will officially bring back its Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast with The Cat in The Hat and Friends across its fleet on sailings beginning Oct. 1. The breakfast is part of the many exciting experiences in Carnival’s Seuss at Sea program, the line’s exclusive partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises.

 

Guests are encouraged to pack their imagination, as well as their appetites, as the whole family embarks on a breakfast that’s part meal and part journey into the deliciously whimsical world of Dr. Seuss.

Bringing Dr. Seuss’ famed children’s books to life, the breakfast features special appearances and meet and greet photo opportunities with favourite Dr. Seuss characters, helping create unforgettable memories no matter the age.

 

From Green Eggs and Ham – of course – to brightly coloured fruit, gravity-defying fluffy pancake stacks, funky french toast, “Moose Juice” and “Goose Juice,” and much more, the fantastical feast features unique menu items, as well as classic breakfast offerings, accompanied by décor with bright colours and patterns. The breakfast is offered once per cruise.

 

In addition to the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, the Seuss at Sea fleetwide program features fun youth, family, dining and entertainment activities inspired by the amazing world and words of Dr. Seuss, such as the Seuss-a-Palooza Story Time (beginning Nov. 1), Dr. Seuss Bookville, a family reading venue on select ships, character interactions, Dr. Seuss toys and games, and popular movies shown on board.

 

12 September, 2022

DISNEY WONDER DOWN UNDER

Disney Cruise Line is cruising Australia and NZ departing from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Auckland later next year from 28 October, 2023

Cruises go on sale to the general public on 29 September. For bookings to cruise on Disney Wonder, email me honida@honeypen.com.au

Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro, said “we are so excited to bring the magic of a Disney cruise vacation close to home for guests in Australia and New Zealand.

“On these limited-time sailings, the ship is the destination, and our amazing Disney Cruise Line crew can’t wait to welcome guests on baord as they are immersed in their favourite stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars,” he said.

More to come...

 

12 September, 2022

NCL TAKE 3 FOR THE SEA 

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, is partnering with Take 3 for the Sea in Australia to support the organisation’s vital work in reducing plastic pollution in Australian waterways and oceans and to inspire NCL staff, travel partners and guests to be part of the change. 

Take 3 for the Sea is a not-for-profit organisation that believes in simple actions to tackle complex problems, advocating for everyone to ‘take 3’ pieces of rubbish with them each time they visit a beach, park or bushland area as part of its plan to remove 50 million pieces of rubbish from waterways by 2025.

 

As Take 3 for the Sea’s partner, NCL will create and undertake a range of engaging activities to encourage awareness of the movement amongst the travel community, while empowering stakeholders at an individual level to recognise the important role they can play. Initiatives will include educational and training sessions as well as dedicated clean-up experiences for staff, travel partners and guests, including NCL’s annual Walk for Wellness initiative, which kicks off in October.

 

“Conserving the health of our oceans and reducing plastic pollution is an important part of our comprehensive Sail & Sustain program,” said Ben Angell, Managing Director and Vice President of NCL APAC. 

“As the first major cruise line to eradicate single-use plastic water bottles from our ships, we’re proud to say that so far, across our three sister brands at NCLH we’ve kept over 14 million water bottles and 50 million plastic straws from harming the environment.”

 

“As an avid surfer and swimmer, the ocean is a big part of my life,” Ben continued. “Together with my family, I’ve been ‘taking 3 for the sea’ for many years in my local community. Now, I’m honoured to share my passion and roll up my sleeves alongside my colleagues, travel industry partners and NCL guests to empower others to get involved.”

 

NCL became the first cruise line to eradicate single-use plastic water bottles from its ships and private island destinations in 2020. To achieve this, NCL offers FLOW water products fleetwide, which use responsibly sourced paperboard packaging with a plant-based cap.

 

A further example of NCL’s commitment to investing in people and strengthening communities is the line’s annual Walk for Wellness, an initiative supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of its Australian and New Zealand team members and travel partners. Now in its third year, the program takes place in October during Australian Mental Health Month and WHO World Mental Health Day (10 October) and is built on a simple yet meaningful premise – that the simple act of going for a walk can do wonders for mental wellbeing. This year, participants will be able to join the Take 3 for the Sea movement during a new week-long Clean Up Challenge, recognising the fact that our own sense of wellbeing is intrinsically linked to the wellbeing of our environment. 

 

Jacquie Riddell, CEO of Take 3 for the Sea, said, “We are delighted to have NCL on board as a partner. The team has demonstrated a commitment to ocean conservation in many ways with the Company’s Sail and Sustain program and have further taken steps to support the mental wellbeing of Australian and New Zealand staff and travel partners with the annual Walk for Wellness initiative. We are thrilled that this year’s Walk for Wellness will include Take 3 for the Sea challenges, recognising that doing good for the planet can promote a sense of personal wellbeing.” 

 

Recent consumer research conducted by NCL confirmed that 44% of guests feel sustainability is a very important factor when choosing their cruise line, and the partnership with Take 3 for the Sea to reduce plastic pollution in the oceans reflects NCL’s broader Sail & Sustain commitments whilst creating opportunities for the NCL team and travel community to take authentic action and play a meaningful role. 

 

NCL’s comprehensive Sail & Sustain program is focused on five key areas: reducing environmental impact; sailing safely; empowering people; strengthening communities and operating with integrity and accountability. The Company’s conservation commitments extend far beyond its ships to include partnerships with leading conservation organisations, scientific research projects and education institutions worldwide, such as the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation.

 

9 September, 2022

DOHA, QATAR TO HOST NAMING CEREMONY OF MSC WORLD EUROPA

MSC’S MOST ENVIRONMENTALLY ADVANCED CRUISE SHIP THAT HAS BEEN HAILED AS REPRESENTING “THE FUTURE OF CRUISING”

The Cruise Division of MSC Group in partnership with Qatar Airways has announced that the naming ceremony for MSC Cruises’ trailblazing new flagship, MSC World Europa, will take place on 13 November in Doha, the capital of Qatar, where she will officially inaugurate the city’s brand new Grand Cruise Terminal. 

This latest announcement is part of MSC’s overall commitment to Qatar and the continued importance of the Middle East, where MSC Cruises is brand leader, and also supports Qatar’s Vision 2030 pledge to triple the number of international tourists visiting the country by that year.

 

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division of MSC Group, said, “We are incredibly proud that in November we will name our most innovative, futuristic and the world’s largest environmentally-focused cruise passenger ship in Doha. 

MSC World Europa represents the future of cruising, a totally new platform that will provide our guests with an unforgettable cruise not experienced anywhere before, so it is fitting that this monumental event will take place in one of the seven new Urban Wonders of the World and inaugurate the city’s magnificent new Grand Cruise Terminal.”

“Qatar will continue to play an important role in our strategy to expand our presence in the broader Gulf region as we see greater demand from our guests to visit this culturally rich and yet fully discovered part of the world. I would like to thank Qatar Airways for its collaborative partnership and strong support in making this event happen.”

“And it is only fitting that this event marks the coming into service of the highly anticipated MSC World Europa, the first in our trailblazing ‘World Class’ of ships that introduces a completely new cruising platform that boasts future-proof marine and onboard hospitality technologies, state-of-the-art environmental technologies as well as ground-breaking and ultramodern design. 

"The ship will become the biggest and most environmentally high-performing passenger ship to sail out of Doha and across the Middle East and welcome guests from around the world for the winter 2022/2023 season.”

The ship naming ceremony is set to be a glamourous and star-studded event and celebrated with an outstanding array of stunning live entertainment and performances as well as the traditional maritime bottle breaking moment to name a new ship against the backdrop of a firework-lit stunning cityscape skyline of Doha. Further details of the special event will be revealed in due course.

His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, commented: “Qatar has taken important steps to position itself as a world class destination for cruise passengers and the naming ceremony of MSC World Europa in Doha is another landmark event as we grow this important tourism sector. As Qatar places great importance on sustainability, it is fitting that we host this ceremony for such an environmentally focused cruise ship. In addition, the opening of the new Grand Cruise Terminal is a state-of-the-art facility that firmly puts Qatar on the map for cruise ships and positions Doha as one of the most modern ports in the world.”

 

The special occasion will take place at Doha’s brand new Grand Cruise Terminal, a state-of-the-art 24,000 square metres facility that will handle up to 28,000 passengers a day and has the capacity to host two mega-cruise ships a day.  Cruise passengers are set to enjoy an incredible aquarium in the terminal and a gallery that specialises in Islamic art, among its many features.     

 

The ship will make for her maiden voyage on December 20, offering 7-night cruises to Doha, Qatar, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas Island, United Arab Emirates, plus Dammam, Saudi Arabia. For the upcoming winter season MSC Opera will also offer 7-night itineraries in the Gulf region to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas island plus two destinations in Oman - Muscat and Khasab.

 

MSC World Europa from March 2023 will then move to the Mediterranean Sea where she will offer 7-night cruises to the Italian ports of Genoa, Naples and Messina, as well as Valletta in Malta, Barcelona in Spain and Marseille in France.

 

About MSC World Europa

 

Spanning 22 decks, with 215,863 GT’s, 47 metres wide, 40,000 m2 of public space and 2,626 cabins, MSC World Europa is the eagerly anticipated new flagship that will join the MSC Cruises’ fleet.

 

This ultramodern urban metropolis at sea has been designed to offer a veritable choice of different experiences for holiday makers.

 

MSC World Europa will be the first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet and the most environmentally advanced to date.

 

The fuel she will run on, LNG, is one of the world’s cleanest marine fuels available at scale and is set to play a key role in the decarbonisation of international shipping.

 

It virtually eliminates local air pollutant emissions like sulphur oxides and reduces nitrogen oxides by up to 85 per cent.

 

LNG also plays a key role in climate change mitigation as it reduces CO2 emissions by 25 per cent and is paving the way for the uptake of sustainable non-fossil fuels including green hydrogen. A demonstration fuel cell onboard will test the efficiency of this technology as a means to produce heat and electricity about 30 per cent more efficiently.

 

MSC World Europa will also feature selective catalytic reduction systems, shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port, advanced wastewater treatment systems designed in line with the United Nations’ shipping body the International Maritime Organization, food and waste recycling, underwater radiated noise management system to help protect marine life and a comprehensive range of onboard energy efficient equipment to optimise engine use and further reduce emissions.

 

The Swiss-based line has a long-term goal to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions for its operations by 2050. This will be achieved by investing and supporting the accelerated development and implementation of innovative, cutting-edge technologies to be deployed across the Company’s fleet of ships.

 

9 September, 2022

THREE OUT OF THREE P&O CRUISES AUSTRALIA SHIPS HOME

The entire P&O Cruises Australia fleet of three magnificent ships has returned home to resume cruising in Australia with the arrival in Sydney today of Pacific Adventure, which later in the day is set to become one of the tallest ships to sail under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. 

Pacific Adventure sailed through the Heads this morning on her way initially to the Overseas Passenger Terminal. Celebrations surrounding Pacific Adventure’s arrival were scaled back as a mark of respect following the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

A special marine engineering project has given Pacific Adventure the ‘head room’ necessary for the ship to sail under the bridge to the White Bay Cruise Terminal.

Today’s arrival was an important homecoming for the 109, 000-tonne 2600-guest Pacific Adventure as it will be based year-round in Sydney to take cruise fans on itineraries to Australian destinations and to the South Pacific where cruising is vital to island economies. 

Pacific Adventure’s first commercial cruise will depart from Sydney on October 22 on a three-night comedy cruise. 

“All of our ship arrivals since the cruise ban was lifted in mid-April have been emotional moments but it is particularly significant to now have all three P&O Cruises Australia ships back home,” said Marguerite Fitzgerald, President of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia. 

“Pacific Adventure has also returned to Australia just as the South Pacific continues to reopen maritime borders to cruising with New Zealand, Fiji, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea open and Vanuatu hopefully soon to follow. 

“P&O has a 90-year heritage of sailing to the Pacific and we look forward to re-establishing contact with island communities that for decades have welcomed our ships and our guests.”

Pacific Adventure’s arrival means that P&O, as Australia’s home-grown cruise line, can expand its presence sailing from a number of Australian ports and from Auckland in New Zealand.

Of the three P&O ships now home, Pacific Encounter is based in Brisbane for year-round cruising, Pacific Adventure is based in Sydney. Pacific Explorer will do cruise seasons from Adelaide, Melbourne, Fremantle and Cairns. Explorer will do an extended Auckland cruise season from June to November next year.

“Our thanks go to our guests who have returned to cruising with such a great sense of enthusiasm and also to our wonderful crew for rising to the occasion so professionally in delivering an exceptional cruise experience,” Ms Fitzgerald said. 

About Pacific Adventure:

Pacific Adventure is P&O Cruises’ third ship to arrive back in Australia since the resumption of cruising, with her inaugural season being homeported in Sydney.

The ship showcases many P&O favourites, including Luke’s Bar & Grill by Luke Mangan and 400 Gradi by award-winning Melbourne chef Johnny di Francesco, as well as a new multi-storey atrium and Byron Beach Club private retreat, complete with pool, spas and lounge areas.

 

Facts about Pacific Adventure:

• 1,318 guest rooms accommodating 2636 guests (lower berth)

• 21 dining options to explore over 17 guest decks

• 10 bars and nightclubs 

• The Byron Beach Club is an exclusive-access retreat for guests in select suites

• Offers first-of-its-kind “Twin Racer” waterslides 

• 108,865,000 gross tonnes and 290 metres in length

8 September, 2022

FUN IS COMING HOME! CARNIVAL SPLENDOR DEPARTS SEATTLE EN ROUTE TO SYDNEY

Carnival Splendor is set to be the first Carnival cruise ship back in Aussie waters

Nearly 1000 days since her last Australian cruise, Carnival Splendor has officially embarked on her return to her homeport of Sydney, departing Seattle on a 23-night Transpacific Journeys cruise.
 
After a successful cruise season in Alaska showcasing her Aussie features to North America, Carnival Splendor will sail through the heads into Sydney Harbour on September 30.
 
With guests on board from all around the world, including a number of very dedicated Aussie cruise fans, passengers will visit six amazing ports across Fiji and Hawaii, including Maui, Honolulu, Kona and Hilo.
 
Enjoying the fun on board are New South Wales locals Arthur and Christine Harris who, with this cruise, are celebrating an incredible 51 cruises with Carnival Cruise Line. The milestone achievement also coincides with the brand’s 50th birthday celebrated earlier this year, along with Carnival’s 10th year in Australia to be celebrated later in October.
 
“Although we’ve now cruised with Carnival over 50 times, this one is particularly special. Not only is the itinerary amazing, but we’ll get to experience the excitement of sailing onboard Carnival Splendor as she returns home to Sydney. We’ve flown all the way to the US to join the cruise but we can’t wait to sail out of Australia again,” said Arthur Harris.
 
Cruisers will also have plenty of time to refamiliarise themselves with Carnival Splendor’s amazing features on the three-week-long journey including the green and gold Carnival Waterworks™, Cloud 9 Spa and Serenity™ Retreat, and much loved dining options from Masala Tiger to Guy’s Burger Joint.
 
On the announcement, Kara Glamore, VP of Carnival Cruise Line Australia, said that Splendor’s return is a huge win for Australian cruising. “Carnival Splendor has had a fantastic season in Alaska sailing alongside her sister ships in the global Carnival Cruise Line fleet. However, we know that Aussies are incredibly eager to reacquaint themselves with the FUN style of cruising that only Carnival can offer.
 
“When Splendor returns to Sydney, she’ll be bringing the signature Carnival Cruise Line fun back into the market - and kick off what will be an extremely exciting few months for Australian cruising with Carnival Luminosa’s arrival just around the corner too.”
 
Carnival Splendor’s first cruise from Sydney will depart on 01 October 2022.
 
Cruising With Honey will be aboard Carnival Splendor on her first cruise from Australia on 1 October, a four-night cruise to Moreton Island, Queensland.

7 September, 2022

P&O's Pacific Adventure to arrive in Sydney on Friday, 9 September

This will mark the return of ALL three P&O ships - Explorer, Encounter and Adventure - to Australia. The complete fleet.

The following day, Saturday 10 September Pacific Adventure will become one of the tallest ships ever to sail under the Sydney Harbour Bridge when she relocates from OPT to White Bay.


PACIFIC ADVENTURE TIMINGS:

9:30am – At Sydney Heads

10:00am – At Bradley’s Head

10:15am – At Fort Denison

10:20am – At Sydney Opera House

10:30am – Alongside at Overseas Passenger Terminal (OPT)

Pacific Adventure as seen from Pacific Encounter off Gladstone today, 7 September, 2022.

Cruising With Honey is among other members of the media and travel industry people invited to board a media boat to greet Adventure at Sydney Heads and bring her into berth at the OPT

5 September, 2022

Ocean Cruising – New Viking Sampler voyages

 

9-day Cairns to Bali

Viking’s newly released last-minute sampler voyages from Cairns are now on sale.  The 9-day Cairns to Bali voyage departing 26 October 2022 is priced from just $2,395 per person.

 

Discover the charms of northern Australia and immerse yourself in the history and traditions of the Indigenous Peoples of the Torres Strait on Thursday Island and learn about the settlements that arose after Europeans arrived. Then explore the tropical natural beauty and meet the local wildlife in Darwin.

 

With just 930 guests, no kids and no casinos, Viking’s award-winning ships are prized for their timeless Scandinavian interiors and world-class culinary offerings. The Viking Inclusive Value means your cruise fare includes more, including all your meals - with no charge for specialty restaurants, premium beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, unlimited specialty coffees, teas and bottled water all day, Wi-Fi, gratuities and even the spa facilities are included. You can even bring your own wine, beer and spirits on board to enjoy anywhere on the ship, and they’ll never charge a corkage fee.

This is a rare opportunity to experience the world of Viking closer to home at a special price.

 

13-day Cairns to Singapore

Viking’s newly released last-minute sampler voyages from Cairns are now on sale.  The 13-day Cairns to Singapore voyage departing 26 October 2022 is priced from just $3,595 per person.

 

Explore the remote beauty of Australia’s northern shores, gain an insight into the ancient culture of Indonesia during this leisurely voyage from Cairns to the bustling metropolis of Singapore as you indulge in the Viking onboard experience.

 

With just 930 guests, no kids and no casinos, Viking’s award-winning ships are prized for their timeless Scandinavian interiors and world-class culinary offerings. The Viking Inclusive Value means your cruise fare includes more, including all your meals - with no charge for specialty restaurants, premium beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, unlimited specialty coffees, teas and bottled water all day, Wi-Fi, gratuities and even the spa facilities are included. You can even bring your own wine, beer and spirits on board to enjoy anywhere on the ship, and they’ll never charge a corkage fee.

This is a rare opportunity to experience the world of Viking closer to home at a special price.

 

16-day Cairns to Bangkok

Viking’s newly released last-minute sampler voyages from Cairns are now on sale.  The 16-day Cairns to Bangkok voyage departing 26 October 2022 is priced from just $4,495 per person.

 

Traverse the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea and discover Darwin, named after the esteemed British naturalist Charles Darwin. Visit charming Thursday Island and delight in lively Singapore’s cosmopolitan flare before sailing to Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, renowned for its tasty street food and golden shrines.

 

With just 930 guests, no kids and no casinos, Viking’s award-winning ships are prized for their timeless Scandinavian interiors and world-class culinary offerings. The Viking Inclusive Value means your cruise fare includes more, including all your meals - with no charge for specialty restaurants, premium beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, unlimited specialty coffees, teas and bottled water all day, Wi-Fi, gratuities and even the spa facilities are included. You can even bring your own wine, beer and spirits on board to enjoy anywhere on the ship, and they’ll never charge a corkage fee.

This is a rare opportunity to experience the world of Viking closer to home at a special price.

 

For additional information, visit your local travel agent, vikingcruises.com.au or phone Viking on 138 747 (AU) / 0800 447 913 (NZ).