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Fall Grand Mediterranean Voyage Aboard Regent Seven Seas to Celebrate European Music and Cuisine Fort Lauderdale - May 15, 2008 - Regent Seven Seas Cruises, voted the "#1 Small-Ship Cruise Line" in Condé Nast Traveler's 2007 Readers' Choice Awards poll, will offer its guests an extended celebration of the food, wine and music that have made the Mediterranean one of the world's most sought-after travel destinations during a 28-night Autumn Sojourn in The Mediterranean voyage slated to depart this fall aboard the 700-guest Seven Seas Voyager®.
Sailing from Istanbul on October 18, 2008, guests will enjoy the utmost in cruise luxury as Seven Seas Voyager journeys across the entire Mediterranean, across the French and Italian Rivieras and Cote d'Azur to the cobalt blue waters of the Greek Isles. "For guests who love to cruise, these longer voyages evoke the romance of ocean travel," said Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. "At the same time, they provide a rare opportunity to explore an extraordinary number of exciting Mediterranean ports," he added.
The 28-night voyage is available as a single journey or in three individual segments. Each segment is its own special event, offering a compelling combination of classical music and gourmet cuisine, highlighted by special guests and exclusive concerts and museum tours ashore. Guests will even have opportunities to purchase Euros at a 1:1 exchange rate against the U.S. dollar, and experience complimentary events on board and ashore.
The individual segments are as follows:
Executive Vice President's Cruise, Istanbul to Piraeus (October 18 to 25) - Kenneth Watson, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Regent Seven Seas, hosts a luxurious seven-night Greek Isles journey beginning with an overnight stay in exotic Istanbul and proceeding to Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini and Nafplio in Greece and Kusadasi, Turkey. At Ephesus, the ancient Anatolian city that is today one of the world's most famous archaeological sites, guests will enjoy a concert by the Izmir Chamber Orchestra featuring Vivaldi, Bach, Mozart and Brahms. Per-person fares start at $4,995.
Three Song of Flower Captains' Cruise, Piraeus to Monte Carlo (October 25 to November 5) - In addition to being Regent Seven Seas captains, Dag Dvergastein, Knut Hanssen and Jarle Jensen have another thing in common - all three were previously masters of the iconic luxury ship Song of Flower, once part of the fleet of Regent Seven Seas predecessor Radisson Seven Seas Cruises. Sailing across the Mediterranean from the Greek Isles to the French and Italian Rivieras, the voyage will call at Kusadasi and Marmaris in Turkey; Iraklio, Greece; Valletta, Malta; Ajaccio, Corsica; and Naxos, Sorrento, Civitavecchia and Livorno in Italy before concluding in Monte Carlo. The three captains will host a series of special events for guests and will be joined by former Song of Flower staff members including cruise director J.J., shore excursion manager Helen Harrison and maitre d'hotel Patrick Lescoute. Another highlight of the voyage is an exclusive concert at Valletta's Manoel Theater. Per-person rates start at $6,850.
President's Cruise, Monte Carlo to Civitavecchia (November 5 to 15) - Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will host this 10-night voyage into antiquity, accompanying guests as they travel from Monte Carlo to Portofino and Livorno, Italy; Marseilles, France; Barcelona, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca and Menorca, Spain; and Ajaccio, Corsica. Guests are invited to an after-hours private tour of the Picasso Museum in Barcelona. Other highlights include a complimentary organ concert at Palma de Mallorca's Cathedral. Per-person rates start at $5,995.
Guests who purchase individual segments will enjoy one complimentary special event and benefits including free Economy or Business Class air (or $1,000/$3,000 cruise credit, respectively), depending on suite category purchased, plus the option to purchase up to 200 Euros per suite at a 1:1 exchange rate.
Guests who opt for the full 28-night voyage receive two-for-one pricing, free Business Class air (or $3,000 cruise credit), special shipboard events, and a commemorative gift. These guests will also have the option to purchase up to 800 Euros per suite from Regent Seven Seas at a 1:1 exchange rate. Per-person prices for the 28-night voyage range from $14,495 to $44,543.
Those guests wishing to extend their 28-night voyage even further may do so by remaining aboard Seven Seas Voyager for the 16-night Grand Crossing from Civitavecchia to Fort Lauderdale (November 15 to December 1), visiting select ports in North Africa and Spain and a mid-Atlantic stop in Madeira. The 44-night itinerary is available from $20,295 to $66,188 per person.
| Outdoor Adventures Highlight 23 New Tours For Crystal's Fall New England/Canada Season LOS ANGELES, May 27, 2008 - A helicopter adventure over the vast landscape of Gros Morne National Park, nine holes at the Fairmont Algonquin Golf Course and a kayaking expedition that ends with a beach site lobster bake, are a few of 26 brand new Crystal Adventures shore excursions offered for Crystal Cruises' 2008 New England and Canada itineraries. More than 100 tours in all, including many new outdoor options, are available with four 10- and 11-day itineraries aboard Crystal Symphony from September 16 through October 29.
Sailing between New York and Montréal, the cruises include a maiden call at Corner Brook Newfoundland, and visits to such perennial favorite destinations as Newport; Boston, Bar Harbor, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia and Quebec City. A golf-themed itinerary sails from Montréal to New York on September 27.
"New England's rich history and the region's stunning fall landscape are major attractions for travelers within the U.S. as well as abroad," said John Stoll, director, land programs. "Adding to the itineraries' diversity are French Canada's flair and the traditions of the maritime provinces. Our outdoor and culturally enriching options are designed to engage guests in the region's charm and beauty."
New excursions run the gamut from culturally fascinating to adventurous, including:
America's Cup Sailing Experience in Newport - Aboard your private vessel, the helpful crew show you the workings of these "greyhounds of the seas." Participate in sailing, or if you prefer, sit back and relax, enjoying picturesque Narragansett Bay.
Riding the Reversing Rapids in Saint John - Jet across the churning water, glimpsing powerful, swirling whirlpools and seeing towering waves along the way.
Picture Perfect Newport: A Photographer's Expedition - A professional photographer will offer tips on taking compelling photos of "America's First Resort" with this photography expedition.
Halifax Schooner Cruise: A Swashbuckling Adventure - During your at-sea adventure on a top sail schooner, and replica of the privateer schooners that once sailed from Halifax for fame and fortune, help fire off one of the four black powder canons, hoist the sails or steer the ship.
New England and Canada Crystal Adventures are priced from $40 to $1,784. Cruise fares start at $3,435 per person, double occupancy. For additional information, please contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line's website at crystalcruises.com.
| Carnival Expands Alaska Shore Excursions With A Number Of New Tours For Exploring The 'Last Frontier' May 16, 2008 - Alaska is one of the world's most beautiful destinations and Carnival Cruise Lines has expanded its shore excursion offerings in the “Last Frontier” with 10 exciting new tours that cater to adventure lovers and history buffs alike. Carnival's summer 2008 lineup of new shore excursions includes everything from fascinating historical and cultural tours to glass-blowing demonstrations and a trip on one of the Bering Sea fishing boats from the reality program, “Deadliest Catch.”
Carnival will offer more than 120 different shore excursion choices in total on its seven-day itineraries aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Spirit. Voyages depart northbound from Vancouver or southbound from Whittier/Anchorage, with each itinerary introducing guests to Alaska's stunning beauty through scenic cruising opportunities.
Guests have the option of sailing one of three seven-day itineraries: Southbound, Northbound or Glacier Bay. Each itinerary provides incredible views with scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, Lynn Canal, Prince William Sound, College Fjord and Glacier Bay as Carnival Spirit makes its way to Alaska’s most popular port towns including Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan.
In Skagway, the Gateway to the Klondike, cruisers can now take part in the new “Golden Glassblowing Experience.” This hands-on outing allows guests to sculpt their own work of art complete with 24-karat gold and have the finished product packed and shipped home as the ultimate souvenir. Also making a debut this season is the “Takshanuk Mountain Trail by 4×4.” This journey begins with a scenic cruise aboard a high-speed catamaran down North America’s longest and deepest fjord. A four-wheel drive “mule,” or heavy-duty golf cart, continues the journey, taking guests to beautiful waterfalls and crystal clear creeks before reaching sub-alpine meadows, followed by a gourmet lunch and fast-ferry return to the ship.
Skagway, located in the upper Lynn Canal, is considered the northernmost point in Southeast Alaska and features wooden sidewalks, old-fashioned saloons and horse-drawn carriages serving as reminders of the Alaska gold rush days. Those seeking a golden treasure can opt for the “Gold Fever Adventure,” which allows guests to pan for gold on an active claim.
Joining Ketichkan's array of excursions are four new experiences, including the “Bear Creek Zip Line and Challenge Course.” This eco-rainforest adventure begins with an all-terrain vehicle ride, suitable for beginners and experts, and features zip lines, tree platforms, a skywalk, a rainforest swing, rope-bridge and a spruce slide. Those seeking a more relaxing day can explore Revillagigedo Island, which boasts the world’s largest collection of totem poles, or opt for the “Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary, Eagles & Totems,” an eco-exploration with a guided nature hike, bald eagle viewing and interaction with reindeer.
Foodies also are in for a treat with Carnival's latest culinary offering in Ketchikan — “The Alaskan Chef’s Table, A Cultural Affair.” This culinary tour allows guests to see how local produce is caught and then crafted into a sumptuous Alaskan dinner party. This excursion keeps on giving once guests return home, as they receive a unique keepsake box featuring recipes for the dishes served so they, too, can re-create the fun for friends and family.
Those wanting to get a little more up-close and personal with their Alaskan fare may want to board the Aleutian Ballard for the “Bering Sea Crab Fisherman” experience. The Aleutian Ballard, the king crab fishing vessel made famous by the Discovery Channel's original series “Deadliest Catch,” invites guests calling at Ketchikan to sail and learn how these boats operate and to hear first-hand accounts of the crews' Bering Sea exploits.
Juneau, America's largest capital city geographically, also presents an incredible opportunity for cruisers. Here guests can board their own private custom-built catamaran, complete with captain and naturalist, to explore the region’s ice-carved fjords and rugged coast. This “Wild Coast Exploration by Private Boat” accommodates up to six guests and lets them set a course for watching whales, bears and eagles, or hauling in their own catch of the day.
While calling at Sitka, history enthusiasts who take “Sitka's Cultural & Colonial Russian Tour” will gain an appreciation for the island community. Participants will delve into the region's history at the Sheldon Jackson museum, the oldest exhibit of Indian and Eskimo artifacts in Alaska; view a former World War II PBY Aircraft Base, and visit St. Michael's Cathedral — home to priceless religious artwork dating back to the late 15th century.
Back on board, Carnival Spirit's activities cater to the whole family with relaxing spa experiences or dining options such as the elegant reservations-only Nouveau Supper Club, and children's programs for three different age groups — Camp Carnival for kids, Circle C for 'tweens and Club O2 for teens.
Carnival Spirit also offers indoor and outdoor promenades, a variety of entertainment options and a diversity of nightclubs, lounges and live music venues. Additionally, 80 percent of the staterooms aboard the Carnival Spirit offer either an ocean view or balcony – ideal for scenic Alaska cruising.
| NCL Welcomes Return of Norwegian Sky to Miami Miami - May 6, 2008 --- NCL Corporation (NCL) announced today that it will reflag and rename Pride of Aloha and launch the ship as Norwegian Sky, offering three and four-day Bahamas cruises from Miami commencing this summer. The 2,002-passenger ship, built in 1999, will return to the NCL international fleet, and will be outfitted with NCL's Freestyle 2.0 enhancements. It will be the youngest and highest quality ship sailing three and four-day cruises to the Bahamas from Miami beginning July 14, 2008. The new itineraries go on sale today with fares from $229 per person for an inside stateroom and from $329 per person for a balcony stateroom.
To welcome the ship to Miami, NCL is offering a "Kids Sail Free Summer Vacation" promotion for reservations on Norwegian Sky made from May 6, 2008 to May 31, 2008 for sailings taking place July 14, 2008 to September 26, 2008. Children ages six months to 17 are eligible to sail free (government taxes and fees and fuel supplement apply).
"NCL pioneered the first Bahamas cruise from Miami more than 41 years ago and last had a ship in the three and four-day cruise market from Miami in 2003. By reintroducing Norwegian Sky and positioning the ship in Miami sailing short cruises to the Bahamas, we are returning to our roots. At the same time, we are raising the bar by offering a modern Freestyle Cruising ship that features a variety of accommodations, including balconies and suites, a multitude of on-board amenities and a choice of six restaurants," said Colin Veitch, NCL's president and CEO. "In addition, we will outfit Norwegian Sky with the Freestyle 2.0 enhancements currently being introduced across our fleet. This, coupled with the port-intensive itineraries, offers guests seeking a quick getaway an unmatched cruise experience. There is no doubt that NCL's three and four-day Freestyle product on the industry's newest ship offers the highest quality and best value for money in the market."
Norwegian Sky will depart Miami on Mondays sailing four-day Bahamas cruises with full-day stops in Grand Bahama Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private island in the Bahamas. On Fridays, the ship will sail a weekend getaway three-day Bahamas itinerary, departing Miami at 5 p.m. with all-day stops in Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, returning to Miami at 7 a.m. on Monday mornings. These sailings are scheduled through April 17, 2009.
Norwegian Sky will enter a wet dock in Miami during which a casino will be added. In addition, the ship will receive the significant product and hardware upgrades that are part of the company's major fleetwide initiative, Freestyle 2.0. These enhancements include: a major investment in the total dining experience such as all new menus and Lobster Galore; upgrading the stateroom experience; new wide ranging on-board activities for all guests; and additional recognition, service and amenities for balcony and suite guests.
Originally launched in 1999, Norwegian Sky has more than 240 balcony staterooms, a choice of six different restaurants, 10 bars and lounges, multiple entertainment venues, two pools, extensive children's facilities, a sports deck and a variety of spacious public rooms. Norwegian Sky had been reflagged and renamed Pride of Aloha in 2004 and sailed Hawai'i inter-island cruises until May 2008.
For more information or to book a sailing on Norwegian Sky, call your travel professional, go to www.ncl.com or contact NCL at 866-234-0292.
NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line.
NCL is building two new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.
| Celebrity Cruises Entices Travelers with Late-2008 Mediterranean Sale
Miami - (May 12, 2008 ) - For cruise enthusiasts who long to enjoy the vibrant colors of the Mediterranean from onboard one of the world's top-rated cruise lines, their dream vacation is now within reach. Celebrity Cruises is offering travelers the opportunity to "Fall…for Celebrity's Mediterranean" by taking advantage of a sales promotion offering discounts on select sailings in the region.
Guests who book certain Mediterranean cruises are eligible to receive a $300 per person air or cruise credit for the first two guests in a stateroom and a $100 air or cruise credit for each additional guest in that stateroom. If guests book their airfare and cruise fare with Celebrity, the credits will apply to their airfare. If guests book only their cruise fare with Celebrity, the credits will apply to their cruise fare.
The promotion is valid for all Mediterranean cruises on Celebrity Century, Celebrity Galaxy, and Celebrity Summit with a departure date in October or November of this year, when booked between May 19 and June 1, 2008. Itineraries include 10- and 11-night eastern and western Mediterranean cruises and 14-night "Classical Mediterranean" and "Mediterranean Legacies" itineraries.
Celebrity Cruises encourages guests to visit Celebrity Cruises website for more details.
Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Australia, Canada, Europe and South America. Noted for "The Top Cruise Ships in the World," as voted by the readers of Conde' Nast Traveler (February 2008 readers’ poll), Celebrity's current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, and a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011.
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