Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed its plans to design and develop a $50 Million Eco-Friendly cruise destination in Southern Belize. This new locale, Harvest Caye, will reduce overcrowding at the city port, and give visitors the best first impression a destination can give. The goal is to design an authentic experience grounded in the storyline of nature, ancient culture, art, adventure and music that celebrates Belizean history and culture.
For Belize to grow its tourism, an upgraded experience is necessary. While the master plan for the 75 acres is still under development, the vision is to create a world-class cruise destination, consisting of two locations: an island destination with docking/tendering facilities and a mainland connection point for inland tours. Major components of the project are anticipated to include a floating pier, island village with open-air structures on raised platforms, marina, transportation hub for tours to the mainland, a lagoon for a variety of water sports and a relaxing beach area.
Norwegian Cruise Line CEO Kevin Sheehan said the line expects to “bring four times as many guests to Belize” once Harvest Caye is complete. “In our quest to continuously look for new and exciting destinations for our guests, we plan to develop a cruise destination focused on sustainable design and eco-friendly principles that will retain the natural beauty and local culture of this tropical paradise,” he said."
Monday, August 26, 2013
Monday, August 19, 2013
When is the Best Time to Book a Cruise?
It’s an age-old question that has been discussed and debated to death…”When is the best time to book a cruise?” Some swear it is best to capture the cruise lines “early booking” discount when itineraries are first released, while others wait until months or even weeks prior to sailing, hoping to snag the best deal. Lets face it, nobody wants to get onboard and find out the people they’re sitting next to at dinner paid hundreds of dollars less for the same ![]()
vacation! So with so much conflicting opinions, how does one determine the optimal time to book a cruise?
Cruise lines begin selling cabins roughly 12 to 18 months before a cruise departs, and there are many good reasons as to why you should consider booking this far in advance.
If you are considering an itinerary with a short sailing season, don’t wait. For example, Scandinavia / Russia itineraries sell out quickly because there are a small number of ships that cruise to the area, and in addition, it’s a relatively short season.
If you need to cruise when school is out of session: Christmas break, President’s week, and the summer months, you’re best off booking early. And if you need a quad cabin during that time you should be booking as soon as that itinerary is available to book!
If you need an accessible cabin then you know that there is just a couple available in each category. Don’t wait and later be disappointed.
If you have to have connecting cabins, you only want cabin # 7096, or can’t imagine not cruising in an aft balcony, need I say more?
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If having “early dining” is a deal breaker for you, and it seems to be so for many people, then you should book early. Don’t assume the Maitre d' will oblige you once you get onboard because it’s just not possible for him to accommodate everyone.
If you’re cruising with a large group and everyone has their own specific needs, or you want all your cabins in a row, save yourself the headaches and plan early. Who wants to listen to cousin Claire complain for seven straight days because her cabin is on deck two, while everyone else is up on nine!
Of course, there are people that may benefit from playing the waiting game, willing to chance that the cruise line will slash pricing in order to fill the ship.
If you can cruise during shoulder season then sit back and take the “wait and see” attitude. September, October, November and early December sailings do not fill up as quickly as other months so there may be deals to be had by procrastinating.
If your middle name is “Flexibility” then go ahead and wait. You’re the type of person that doesn’t care which ship or sail date your book, and are not concerned with cabin location. Your motto is “every cruise is a great cruise…just get me aboard cheap!”"
Cruise lines begin selling cabins roughly 12 to 18 months before a cruise departs, and there are many good reasons as to why you should consider booking this far in advance.
If you are considering an itinerary with a short sailing season, don’t wait. For example, Scandinavia / Russia itineraries sell out quickly because there are a small number of ships that cruise to the area, and in addition, it’s a relatively short season.
If you need to cruise when school is out of session: Christmas break, President’s week, and the summer months, you’re best off booking early. And if you need a quad cabin during that time you should be booking as soon as that itinerary is available to book!
If you need an accessible cabin then you know that there is just a couple available in each category. Don’t wait and later be disappointed.
If you have to have connecting cabins, you only want cabin # 7096, or can’t imagine not cruising in an aft balcony, need I say more?
If you’re cruising with a large group and everyone has their own specific needs, or you want all your cabins in a row, save yourself the headaches and plan early. Who wants to listen to cousin Claire complain for seven straight days because her cabin is on deck two, while everyone else is up on nine!
Of course, there are people that may benefit from playing the waiting game, willing to chance that the cruise line will slash pricing in order to fill the ship.
If you can cruise during shoulder season then sit back and take the “wait and see” attitude. September, October, November and early December sailings do not fill up as quickly as other months so there may be deals to be had by procrastinating.
If your middle name is “Flexibility” then go ahead and wait. You’re the type of person that doesn’t care which ship or sail date your book, and are not concerned with cabin location. Your motto is “every cruise is a great cruise…just get me aboard cheap!”"
Monday, August 12, 2013
Cruising to the Galapagos Islands on the Celebrity Xpedition
The Galapagos Islands are a small archipelago of islands belonging to Ecuador. The islands are quite remote, about 620 miles west of the South American continent. The Galapagos consists of 13 main islands and 6 smaller isles, the principals being Fernandina, Isabela, Baltra, James, Santa Cruz and San Cristobal. Appropriately ninety-seven percent is national park.
Made famous by Charles Darwin, the Galapagos Islands are no less enthralling now than they were a hundred years ago. The islands are home to an extraordinary number of unique species including approximately 29 migrant birds, 56 native birds, 29 land birds, 6 mammals, giant tortoises, 3 types of land iguanas, marine iguanas, several invertebrates, and more.
On a Galapagos Island cruise you can see everything from beloved penguins and boobies with bright blue feet to prehistoric looking marine iguanas and male frigate birds turning their wrinkled throat sacs into extraordinary, fully inflated red balloons. One day you could be snapping photos of giant tortoises, and the next you could be snorkeling with playful sea lions in crystal-clear water. A cruise to the Galapagos Islands is certainly a trip of a lifetime!
A great way to experience the Galapagos Islands is a cruise aboard the Celebrity Xpedition, as all naturalist guides onboard Celebrity Xpedition are certified by the Galapagos National Park. The 92- passenger Xpedition is filled with touches that are luxuriously familiar. The ship is designed to provide guests with many of the amenities they would expect from Celebrity, from gourmet cuisine to comfortable staterooms, to impeccable service.![]()
Celebrity Xpedition offers an all-inclusive experience in the Galapagos Islands including accommodations, meals, gratuities, all shore excursions, all lectures, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, soft drinks, fruit juices, and the use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, binoculars and much more.
Celebrity Cruises offers 7-night, 10-night, 11-night and 13-night vacation packages in the Galapagos Islands, year round. The 13-night Celebrity Xpedition Galapagos package extends the guests all-inclusive vacation to Peru, including Lima, Cuzco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu."
Made famous by Charles Darwin, the Galapagos Islands are no less enthralling now than they were a hundred years ago. The islands are home to an extraordinary number of unique species including approximately 29 migrant birds, 56 native birds, 29 land birds, 6 mammals, giant tortoises, 3 types of land iguanas, marine iguanas, several invertebrates, and more.
On a Galapagos Island cruise you can see everything from beloved penguins and boobies with bright blue feet to prehistoric looking marine iguanas and male frigate birds turning their wrinkled throat sacs into extraordinary, fully inflated red balloons. One day you could be snapping photos of giant tortoises, and the next you could be snorkeling with playful sea lions in crystal-clear water. A cruise to the Galapagos Islands is certainly a trip of a lifetime!
A great way to experience the Galapagos Islands is a cruise aboard the Celebrity Xpedition, as all naturalist guides onboard Celebrity Xpedition are certified by the Galapagos National Park. The 92- passenger Xpedition is filled with touches that are luxuriously familiar. The ship is designed to provide guests with many of the amenities they would expect from Celebrity, from gourmet cuisine to comfortable staterooms, to impeccable service.
Celebrity Xpedition offers an all-inclusive experience in the Galapagos Islands including accommodations, meals, gratuities, all shore excursions, all lectures, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, soft drinks, fruit juices, and the use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, binoculars and much more.
Celebrity Cruises offers 7-night, 10-night, 11-night and 13-night vacation packages in the Galapagos Islands, year round. The 13-night Celebrity Xpedition Galapagos package extends the guests all-inclusive vacation to Peru, including Lima, Cuzco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu."
Wednesday, August 07, 2013
Cruising to Peggy's Cove
The season of Canada / New England cruises leaving from Northeast ports is underway. A favorite port of call on that particular itinerary is the Canadian city of Halifax. While there are many wonderful things to do in the Halifax area, a trip to Peggy’s Cove is always a memorable way to spend the day.![]()
Peggy's Cove, a picture postcard fishing village, is located 26 miles southwest of downtown Halifax. According to legend, Peggy's Cove was named after a woman named Margaret, the only survivor of a schooner that ran aground and sank in the year 1800. Local folk called her ""Peggy"" and her home came to be known as Peggy's Cove.
Set on rocky shores, Peggy’s Cove is known for its seasoned fish sheds, brightly painted boats, and colorful homes perched on wave-washed boulders. It is this charming scene that has fascinated artists, photographers and tourists for years. Yet despite its popularity, the little village has been able maintain the same peaceful atmosphere that has made it famous.
Strolling around the Cove allows visitors a glimpse into maritime life. This is a working fishing community with all that accompanies that activity. Lobster traps and fishnets decorate the wharves and roadside, and fishing boats come and go from the piers. The geology and history of the village is told on storyboards scattered throughout the area.![]()
The many small, locally owned gift stores, galleries and craft shops features the works of Canadian and Nova Scotian artists and crafts people. The restaurants and cafes in the area offer the freshest Nova Scotia seafood. Lobster is the specialty but don't miss a bowl of the famous fish chowder or a meal featuring the wonderful St Margaret's Bay haddock.
The community’s famous lighthouse, built in 1868 marks the eastern entrance of St. Margaret’s Bay. The lighthouse at Peggy's Cove is a hexagonal concrete tower, standing on solid rock above the crashing surf. It is a classic red and white lighthouse, retired from active service by the Canadian Coast Guard. The lighthouse is one of the most recognized, visited and photographed structures in the world.
From June through October you can cruise up to Canada and New England leaving from convenient ports in Baltimore, Bayonne, or Boston. If Halifax is on your chosen cruise itinerary, consider spending the day in the idyllic fishing village of Peggy’s Cove.
Peggy's Cove, a picture postcard fishing village, is located 26 miles southwest of downtown Halifax. According to legend, Peggy's Cove was named after a woman named Margaret, the only survivor of a schooner that ran aground and sank in the year 1800. Local folk called her ""Peggy"" and her home came to be known as Peggy's Cove.
Set on rocky shores, Peggy’s Cove is known for its seasoned fish sheds, brightly painted boats, and colorful homes perched on wave-washed boulders. It is this charming scene that has fascinated artists, photographers and tourists for years. Yet despite its popularity, the little village has been able maintain the same peaceful atmosphere that has made it famous.
Strolling around the Cove allows visitors a glimpse into maritime life. This is a working fishing community with all that accompanies that activity. Lobster traps and fishnets decorate the wharves and roadside, and fishing boats come and go from the piers. The geology and history of the village is told on storyboards scattered throughout the area.
The many small, locally owned gift stores, galleries and craft shops features the works of Canadian and Nova Scotian artists and crafts people. The restaurants and cafes in the area offer the freshest Nova Scotia seafood. Lobster is the specialty but don't miss a bowl of the famous fish chowder or a meal featuring the wonderful St Margaret's Bay haddock.
The community’s famous lighthouse, built in 1868 marks the eastern entrance of St. Margaret’s Bay. The lighthouse at Peggy's Cove is a hexagonal concrete tower, standing on solid rock above the crashing surf. It is a classic red and white lighthouse, retired from active service by the Canadian Coast Guard. The lighthouse is one of the most recognized, visited and photographed structures in the world.
From June through October you can cruise up to Canada and New England leaving from convenient ports in Baltimore, Bayonne, or Boston. If Halifax is on your chosen cruise itinerary, consider spending the day in the idyllic fishing village of Peggy’s Cove.
Monday, July 29, 2013
Visiting European Christmas Markets on a Viking River Cruise
The history of Christmas Markets goes way back to the late Middle Ages in the German-speaking part of Europe. The Bautzen Christmas market was first mentioned in records in 1384 when King Vaclav (that’s Wenzel in German) gave the townspeople the privilege to hold a market for meat. Through the years the market transformed itself into a Christmas Market… now known as “Wenzelsmarkt"" in honor of King Vaclav. Today, the German Christmas markets remain some of the most popular markets in the world, although many countries have since adopted this old-world tradition. A great way to experience several European Christmas Markets is by taking a Viking River Cruise.
Most Christmas Markets start the last week of November, ushering in the season of Advent, and run through to Christmas Eve. The markets are generally held in the Town Square and pedestrian zones, which are usually walking distance from where the ship docks. There’s nothing like wandering through a market of wooden stalls, covered in brightly colored Christmas lights and handmade decorations. The mouth-watering aroma of Bratwurst sausages cooking on the grill, the sweet smell of “Christstollen”, (an egg bread with candied fruit), the spices of hot mulled wine![]()
(Gluhwein) and the perfumes of fancy soaps fill the air! Visitors stroll the festive illuminated streets while munching on gingerbread cookies and other delectable treats. All of the markets have a stage set up for entertainers, mostly children who perform traditional folkloric songs and dances. There are choirs singing carols, as well as orchestras and bands providing festive musical accompaniment.
Each market has a unique ambiance and a Viking River Cruise allows you to sample several. There are traditional handcrafted products such as intricate glassware and jewelry, embroidered lace, wooden toys, nutcrackers, metal-ware, ceramic plates and mugs, beautifully dressed puppets and dolls, and hats, gloves, socks and scarves. Some stalls have spinning wheels right on the premises to make wool items to order! Fresh honey and scented bee’s wax candles are also plentiful. Locally made ornaments of exquisite hand-blown glass or whimsical carved wood are plentiful. Intricate crèche nativity scenes are unlike![]()
anything sold at the mall and would likely become a family heirloom.
There is no better way to discover the enchanting Christmas Markets of Europe than on a Viking River Cruise. Guests will travel along Europe's scenic rivers and visit the bustling holiday markets in cities such as Prague, Nuremberg (home to today’s most renown market), Vienna, Strasbourg and Budapest. Every destination is captivating and enjoyable. Aside from the free time available to shop at the markets, guests receive complimentary guided tours in each port, informative lectures, and interesting demonstrations. After an exhilarating day in port, guests return to the comfort and luxury of a beautifully appointed stateroom. The onboard dining experience features authentic regional dishes bursting with flavor from locally sourced ingredients. A Viking River cruise is always an immersive and enlightening experience. It becomes even more extraordinary when the itinerary includes the European Christmas Markets."
Most Christmas Markets start the last week of November, ushering in the season of Advent, and run through to Christmas Eve. The markets are generally held in the Town Square and pedestrian zones, which are usually walking distance from where the ship docks. There’s nothing like wandering through a market of wooden stalls, covered in brightly colored Christmas lights and handmade decorations. The mouth-watering aroma of Bratwurst sausages cooking on the grill, the sweet smell of “Christstollen”, (an egg bread with candied fruit), the spices of hot mulled wine
Each market has a unique ambiance and a Viking River Cruise allows you to sample several. There are traditional handcrafted products such as intricate glassware and jewelry, embroidered lace, wooden toys, nutcrackers, metal-ware, ceramic plates and mugs, beautifully dressed puppets and dolls, and hats, gloves, socks and scarves. Some stalls have spinning wheels right on the premises to make wool items to order! Fresh honey and scented bee’s wax candles are also plentiful. Locally made ornaments of exquisite hand-blown glass or whimsical carved wood are plentiful. Intricate crèche nativity scenes are unlike
There is no better way to discover the enchanting Christmas Markets of Europe than on a Viking River Cruise. Guests will travel along Europe's scenic rivers and visit the bustling holiday markets in cities such as Prague, Nuremberg (home to today’s most renown market), Vienna, Strasbourg and Budapest. Every destination is captivating and enjoyable. Aside from the free time available to shop at the markets, guests receive complimentary guided tours in each port, informative lectures, and interesting demonstrations. After an exhilarating day in port, guests return to the comfort and luxury of a beautifully appointed stateroom. The onboard dining experience features authentic regional dishes bursting with flavor from locally sourced ingredients. A Viking River cruise is always an immersive and enlightening experience. It becomes even more extraordinary when the itinerary includes the European Christmas Markets."
Monday, July 22, 2013
Labadee...Royal Caribbean's Private Island
One of the most anticipated days on a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation (select itineraries only), is the day spent on Labadee. More like a private resort than a private island, Labadee is located on the northern coast of Hati, fenced off from the rest of the island. This exclusive destination offers multiple pristine beaches, each with its own distinct “vibe”. There are sunny and shady spots along the beaches, where local musicians and performers offer free entertainment. Plenty of beach lounge chairs are available, as well as some hammocks.
For an additional cost, guests can rent floating mats, kayaks, wave runners, snorkel equipment and lovely cabanas. For families with children, purchasing a pass for Arawak Aqua Park may be the best money they spend the entire week! The area consists of water trampolines, icebergs, rolling logs, water slides and a variety of other aquatic activities that will keep the kids occupied all day long!![]()
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Dragon's Tail Coaster, a high-speed alpine coaster ride, rises to 680 feet before descending at 30 miles per hour through dips and 360-degree turns. And for real daredevils, nothing can compare to Dragon’s Breath Flight Line. It’s the world’s largest over water zip line, soaring as high as 500 feet above the water, at speeds as fast as 50 miles per hour!
There are special excursions that can be booked on Labadee as well. The “Adrenaline Coastal Tour” is a narrated sightseeing tour aboard a RIB, a small but powerful vessel that zips out from Labadee to cruise along the scenic shoreline of the island.
The “Discover Haiti Coastal Cruise” will take you on a journey onboard the “Discovery,” a specially designed motorized catamaran. Throughout the voyage you will view by sea breathtaking landscapes, beautiful reefs, a shipwreck, Amiga Island, coastal villages, handmade wooden fishing boats and the landmarks of the Arawak Indians and the early discoverers such as Christopher Columbus in the 15th century.![]()
On the “Haitian Cultural Tour at Paradise Cove” guests will meet a local fisherman and visit a typical rural Haitian home where they can view their cooking techniques, handmade children's toys and natural materials used to build their homes. Many other exhibits onsite will give guests an understanding of the culture and people of Haiti.
Royal Caribbean provides a complimentary buffet-style barbecue lunch on Labadee that includes non-alcoholic drinks and dessert. Three pavilions house the buffet, which is served at large community-style picnic tables to encourage socialization. Several bars are set up across the resort and visitors can charge specialty and alcoholic drinks to their ship accounts. I highly recommend a Labaduzee, the specialty frozen drink available only on Labadee. It’s made with dark rum, coconut rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, papaya juice and cream of coconut, and served in a tall souvenir cup. Yum!"
For an additional cost, guests can rent floating mats, kayaks, wave runners, snorkel equipment and lovely cabanas. For families with children, purchasing a pass for Arawak Aqua Park may be the best money they spend the entire week! The area consists of water trampolines, icebergs, rolling logs, water slides and a variety of other aquatic activities that will keep the kids occupied all day long!
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Dragon's Tail Coaster, a high-speed alpine coaster ride, rises to 680 feet before descending at 30 miles per hour through dips and 360-degree turns. And for real daredevils, nothing can compare to Dragon’s Breath Flight Line. It’s the world’s largest over water zip line, soaring as high as 500 feet above the water, at speeds as fast as 50 miles per hour!
There are special excursions that can be booked on Labadee as well. The “Adrenaline Coastal Tour” is a narrated sightseeing tour aboard a RIB, a small but powerful vessel that zips out from Labadee to cruise along the scenic shoreline of the island.
The “Discover Haiti Coastal Cruise” will take you on a journey onboard the “Discovery,” a specially designed motorized catamaran. Throughout the voyage you will view by sea breathtaking landscapes, beautiful reefs, a shipwreck, Amiga Island, coastal villages, handmade wooden fishing boats and the landmarks of the Arawak Indians and the early discoverers such as Christopher Columbus in the 15th century.
On the “Haitian Cultural Tour at Paradise Cove” guests will meet a local fisherman and visit a typical rural Haitian home where they can view their cooking techniques, handmade children's toys and natural materials used to build their homes. Many other exhibits onsite will give guests an understanding of the culture and people of Haiti.
Royal Caribbean provides a complimentary buffet-style barbecue lunch on Labadee that includes non-alcoholic drinks and dessert. Three pavilions house the buffet, which is served at large community-style picnic tables to encourage socialization. Several bars are set up across the resort and visitors can charge specialty and alcoholic drinks to their ship accounts. I highly recommend a Labaduzee, the specialty frozen drink available only on Labadee. It’s made with dark rum, coconut rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, papaya juice and cream of coconut, and served in a tall souvenir cup. Yum!"
Monday, July 15, 2013
AzAmazing Evenings Presented by Azamara Club Cruises
I’ve been home from my cruise aboard Azamara Quest for a couple of months now, but I still haven’t stopped talking about the incredible time I had. Without a doubt, one of the most memorable events of my cruise was the ![]()
complimentary AzAmazing evening, a concert by the Royal Gibraltar Regiment Band held in the depths of St. Michael’s Cave, Gibraltar. If you think this was just another shore excursion, you couldn’t be more wrong. This was a very special experience created exclusively for Azamara guests that could not be purchased at any price. AzAmazing evenings are events that immerse you in the local culture (in the form of dance, music, theater, food, etc) and take place in beautiful landmark venues (ancient palaces, private gardens, town squares, etc). There is one such event on every Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey cruise (with the exception of Transatlantic voyages), each one an extraordinary experience! These evenings clearly exemplify what Azamara Club Cruises means by “destination immersion”. For that reason I thought I’d describe a few that are featured on upcoming fall sailings.
Tuscan Flavors and Three Tenors Concert (October 1 / Azamara Journey)
From the port of Livorno guests will travel to Greve in Chianti, gateway to the centuries-old vineyards of Tuscany. Here you’ll savor an exquisite evening of hospitality, local foods and wines, and music at an historical hillside castle. A performance by Three Tenors singing Italian opera favorites makes it an enchanting evening.
A Night at the Oceanographic Museum (October 16 / Azamara Quest)
The sounds of live jazz fills the rooms at the after hours party held at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Once directed by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, this exceptional museum is dedicated to all marine sciences. Canapés, Monegasque specialties, and the wines of Provence will be served as guests meander the facilities exploring the dazzling aquarium
![]()
Ephesus – Back to Roman Times (October 19 / Azamara Journey)
Visit the Odeon in Ancient Ephesus, constructed in the 2nd Century AD and used for the meetings of the Senate, and sometimes, as a concert hall for performances. On this night, there will be see a classical ensemble playing the music of Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart, and others. Wine and canapés will be served as guests sit back and enjoy the music, soft spotlights illuminating ancient columns and marble streets.
The Cultures and Traditions of Kerala (November 9 / Azamara Journey)
A brightly painted elephant welcomes guests when they arrive at Vivanta by Taj Maliabar, one of India's most spectacular properties. Tonight guests will stroll the grounds where an assembled marketplace features tea and toddy![]()
shops, a mehndi artist skilled in henna tattoos, astrologers, potters and cane weavers. They may taste the local specialties at the many cooking stations that are set up and watch performances of Mohiniyattam (Indian classical dance) and Kalaripayattu (martial arts dance using spears, swords and daggers.
Anchors Away Party at the USS Yorktown (December 8 / Azamara Quest)
Commissioned in 1943, the Yorktown earned 11 battle stars for service in the Pacific Theater during WWII, and five more for service in Vietnam. Tonight guests step aboard and begin their experience with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the flight deck. After a private tour of the aircraft carrier guests will be entertained on the hanger deck by the David Archers band."
Tuscan Flavors and Three Tenors Concert (October 1 / Azamara Journey)
From the port of Livorno guests will travel to Greve in Chianti, gateway to the centuries-old vineyards of Tuscany. Here you’ll savor an exquisite evening of hospitality, local foods and wines, and music at an historical hillside castle. A performance by Three Tenors singing Italian opera favorites makes it an enchanting evening.
A Night at the Oceanographic Museum (October 16 / Azamara Quest)
The sounds of live jazz fills the rooms at the after hours party held at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Once directed by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, this exceptional museum is dedicated to all marine sciences. Canapés, Monegasque specialties, and the wines of Provence will be served as guests meander the facilities exploring the dazzling aquarium
Ephesus – Back to Roman Times (October 19 / Azamara Journey)
Visit the Odeon in Ancient Ephesus, constructed in the 2nd Century AD and used for the meetings of the Senate, and sometimes, as a concert hall for performances. On this night, there will be see a classical ensemble playing the music of Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart, and others. Wine and canapés will be served as guests sit back and enjoy the music, soft spotlights illuminating ancient columns and marble streets.
The Cultures and Traditions of Kerala (November 9 / Azamara Journey)
A brightly painted elephant welcomes guests when they arrive at Vivanta by Taj Maliabar, one of India's most spectacular properties. Tonight guests will stroll the grounds where an assembled marketplace features tea and toddy
Anchors Away Party at the USS Yorktown (December 8 / Azamara Quest)
Commissioned in 1943, the Yorktown earned 11 battle stars for service in the Pacific Theater during WWII, and five more for service in Vietnam. Tonight guests step aboard and begin their experience with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the flight deck. After a private tour of the aircraft carrier guests will be entertained on the hanger deck by the David Archers band."
Monday, July 08, 2013
Rolling Down the River With Viking River Cruises
Long before autobahns and autostrades, rivers were the super highways of Europe. Towns and cities sprung up all along the rivers of the world because being close to the water made the growth of trade and industry possible. Fast-forward to the present day and you’ll still find some of the most charming towns and exciting cities of the world…Paris, Amsterdam, Vienna, St. Petersburg, Budapest, amongst others, located along these waterways! And what better way to explore them, than by taking a river cruise?
River cruising is the fastest growing segment of the cruise industry, and Viking River Cruises is the largest river cruise company in the world. One of the advantages of having a large fleet of vessels is the ability to take guests to the four corners of the world…or at least wherever there is a river! Imagine a laid back and relaxing cruise, meandering along spectacular rivers, whose banks and hillsides are lined with vineyards and medieval castles. It’s all about unwinding, enjoying food, learning, and taking in the culture and history of the places you are visiting. It is a supremely calming experience; an antidote to the pressures of life in a fast-paced world.
Unlike ocean cruises, passengers sail directly into the heart of every destination and dock in the middle of town. There’s no need to navigate railways or to waste time traveling on crowded city streets from the port to the ship. Shore![]()
excursions and culture enrichment programs, provided by local tour directors, are included in the price of the cruise. Imagine a stop at a local school in China during a Yangtze River Cruise, or learning about the life and works of Monet during a cruise on the Seine. River cruises also feature special events such as the world-famous Christmas markets of Eastern Europe or the tulips and windmills of Holland in the spring.
Viking River Cruises are a great value too, due to the all-inclusiveness of the experience. Spacious and airy, every stateroom is beautifully appointed… complimentary bottled water, wooden clothes hangers, premium bath products and comfortable slippers to slide into after a busy day exploring! Guests receive complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board, and they can help themselves to tea, coffee and cappuccino at any time.
Dress onboard is relaxed and casual. Viking ships offer open seating for all meals, which means guests may sit when and![]()
with whom they’d like. Breakfast is usually a buffet, while lunch can be ordered from the menu, and passengers can choose to eat in areas such as the lounge or sun deck. When evening falls, the artistry in the kitchen transforms into a masterpiece of a five-course dinner, with a menu that incorporates traditional influences as well as contemporary cuisine.
Inspiring destinations, beautifully crafted itineraries, expert tour guides, luxurious ships, fine cuisine, excellent service, remarkable value…that’s what Viking River Cruises is all about."
River cruising is the fastest growing segment of the cruise industry, and Viking River Cruises is the largest river cruise company in the world. One of the advantages of having a large fleet of vessels is the ability to take guests to the four corners of the world…or at least wherever there is a river! Imagine a laid back and relaxing cruise, meandering along spectacular rivers, whose banks and hillsides are lined with vineyards and medieval castles. It’s all about unwinding, enjoying food, learning, and taking in the culture and history of the places you are visiting. It is a supremely calming experience; an antidote to the pressures of life in a fast-paced world.
Unlike ocean cruises, passengers sail directly into the heart of every destination and dock in the middle of town. There’s no need to navigate railways or to waste time traveling on crowded city streets from the port to the ship. Shore
Viking River Cruises are a great value too, due to the all-inclusiveness of the experience. Spacious and airy, every stateroom is beautifully appointed… complimentary bottled water, wooden clothes hangers, premium bath products and comfortable slippers to slide into after a busy day exploring! Guests receive complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board, and they can help themselves to tea, coffee and cappuccino at any time.
Dress onboard is relaxed and casual. Viking ships offer open seating for all meals, which means guests may sit when and
Inspiring destinations, beautifully crafted itineraries, expert tour guides, luxurious ships, fine cuisine, excellent service, remarkable value…that’s what Viking River Cruises is all about."
Tuesday, July 02, 2013
Free Things To Do On An Alaska Cruise
Alaska is America's last great frontier, a majestic wilderness of living blue ice, snow covered mountain peaks, dense green forests, and quaint, waterfront towns. For many, an Alaska cruise is a once in a lifetime, dream vacation. As a travel agent, one concern I hear from clients over and over again is the high cost of shore excursions associated with an Alaska cruise. Dog sledding, floatplanes, helicopter tours, salmon fishing and glacier trekking are expensive! What I usually suggest to my clients is to pick one amazing “must do” adventure and then scale back on the other ports. There are many wonderful activities to enjoy in every Alaska port of call that allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture that is uniquely Alaska. And best of all….many are free!![]()
Juneau:
Mendenhall Glacier: The Mendenhall Glacier is one of Southeast Alaska’s most popular attractions. The USDA Forest Service Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center ($3 pp) is located in the Mendenhall Valley, 12 miles from downtown Juneau. Visitors may reach the visitor center by city bus, taxi, or rental car. The city bus drops visitors a mile and a half from the visitor center. Hiking trails around the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center range from a short, 0.3-mile walk to a 6.8-mile hike with a 1,300-foot elevation gain. These trails will give great views of Mendenhall Glacier, but will not take you onto the ice. Walking on Mendenhall Glacier is dangerous, and should only be done if you have proper training.
Downtown Juneau Historical Walking Tour: Within easy walking distance of the cruise ship docks are many of Juneau’s main attractions, The lively downtown is compact, and easy to navigate on foot. Pick up a walking tour map from any visitors center and follow the path, which takes you by all the major locations that played a part in the history of Juneau, including the state capitol building, Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, several museums and historic South Franklin Street, where turn-of-the-century buildings today are gift shops, restaurants and pubs.
Salmon Spawning Streams: Between July and September, many of the natural salmon spawning streams in the Juneau area are filled with salmon completing their natural life cycle, and it is certainly a spectacle to behold. While some fish these streams, most people just go to watch this amazing annual event.
Skagway:
Walking tour of the Historic District with the National Park Service Ranger: Visit the Klondike Gold National Historical Park Visitor Center at 2nd Avenue and Broadway. Rangers answer questions, give talks, show films, and, five times a day, lead an excellent free guided walking tour. A seven-block corridor along Broadway Street features 15 restored buildings, false fronts and wooden sidewalks from Skagway, Alaska's golden era as a boomtown.
Walk out to the Gold Rush Cemetery and Reid Falls: The Gold Camp Cemetery is in easy walking distance of![]()
downtown (about 2 miles) and boasts the “Largest Nugget in the World”. The headstones and markers are not maintained, giving the cemetery an appropriately creepy, historic atmosphere. The monument to Frank Reid, who killed the villainous Soapy Smith reads, ""He died for the honor of Skagway."" Continue through the cemetery for 1/4 of a mile you can also see Reid Falls. The trail up to the falls starts out flat and slightly inclined, but became rougher and steeper closer to the falls. The falls are quite magnificent and there is a bench where you can rest and admire them.
Hike to Lower Dewey Lake: (0.9 mile to lake; 3.6 miles around lake) Go east on 2nd Ave. past the railroad depot. Where the railroad tracks cross the road turn left and follow the tracks 120 meters north to the trailhead. Plan on taking an hour round-trip for the easy but steep hike to Lower Dewey Lake, where there are picnic tables, and a trail circling the lake.
Ketchikan:
Totem Heritage Center ($5 pp): View the largest collection of unrestored 19th century totem poles, but that's just the beginning of what it has to offer. Also displayed are baskets, masks, regalia, carvings, and my personal favorite, the incredible photographs of the old villages where the poles were retrieved. Not to mention the many carvings and totem poles outside the building.![]()
Self-Guided Walking Tour: Pick up the official Ketchikan Walking Tour map at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau’s visitor information center. Starting from downtown follow the numbered signs posted along two routes offered to learn about the history and culture of this quaint town. Routes can be walked in as little as 60 minutes, but plan extra time to appreciate the sights and for entering attractions or shops along the way. Be sure to stroll along Creek Street. Visited by thousands of visitors every year, historic Creek Street is one of the most popular things to do in Ketchikan. The antique boardwalk on wooden pilings over Ketchikan Creek is home to restaurants, unique curio shops, the Dolly’s House Museum’ & private dwellings, as well as some of the best salmon viewing areas in Ketchikan.
Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and Eagle Center ($12 pp): This nonprofit center combines one of Alaska's best hatchery tours and a place to see a bald eagle close up. The wooden buildings stand over Ketchikan Creek. You can see fish climbing against the current up into pools where they are sorted before being cut open to complete their biological purpose (salmon die when they spawn anyway). The hatchery tours let you get so close, right in the action, where you can feed the growing salmon fry yourself. The hatchery produces king and silver salmon and steelhead trout. Visitors can also walk right through the eagle enclosure. The eagles hunt salmon swimming naturally through their enclosure. No glass stands between you and this activity, only a few feet away."
Juneau:
Mendenhall Glacier: The Mendenhall Glacier is one of Southeast Alaska’s most popular attractions. The USDA Forest Service Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center ($3 pp) is located in the Mendenhall Valley, 12 miles from downtown Juneau. Visitors may reach the visitor center by city bus, taxi, or rental car. The city bus drops visitors a mile and a half from the visitor center. Hiking trails around the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center range from a short, 0.3-mile walk to a 6.8-mile hike with a 1,300-foot elevation gain. These trails will give great views of Mendenhall Glacier, but will not take you onto the ice. Walking on Mendenhall Glacier is dangerous, and should only be done if you have proper training.
Downtown Juneau Historical Walking Tour: Within easy walking distance of the cruise ship docks are many of Juneau’s main attractions, The lively downtown is compact, and easy to navigate on foot. Pick up a walking tour map from any visitors center and follow the path, which takes you by all the major locations that played a part in the history of Juneau, including the state capitol building, Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, several museums and historic South Franklin Street, where turn-of-the-century buildings today are gift shops, restaurants and pubs.
Salmon Spawning Streams: Between July and September, many of the natural salmon spawning streams in the Juneau area are filled with salmon completing their natural life cycle, and it is certainly a spectacle to behold. While some fish these streams, most people just go to watch this amazing annual event.
Skagway:
Walking tour of the Historic District with the National Park Service Ranger: Visit the Klondike Gold National Historical Park Visitor Center at 2nd Avenue and Broadway. Rangers answer questions, give talks, show films, and, five times a day, lead an excellent free guided walking tour. A seven-block corridor along Broadway Street features 15 restored buildings, false fronts and wooden sidewalks from Skagway, Alaska's golden era as a boomtown.
Walk out to the Gold Rush Cemetery and Reid Falls: The Gold Camp Cemetery is in easy walking distance of
Hike to Lower Dewey Lake: (0.9 mile to lake; 3.6 miles around lake) Go east on 2nd Ave. past the railroad depot. Where the railroad tracks cross the road turn left and follow the tracks 120 meters north to the trailhead. Plan on taking an hour round-trip for the easy but steep hike to Lower Dewey Lake, where there are picnic tables, and a trail circling the lake.
Ketchikan:
Totem Heritage Center ($5 pp): View the largest collection of unrestored 19th century totem poles, but that's just the beginning of what it has to offer. Also displayed are baskets, masks, regalia, carvings, and my personal favorite, the incredible photographs of the old villages where the poles were retrieved. Not to mention the many carvings and totem poles outside the building.
Self-Guided Walking Tour: Pick up the official Ketchikan Walking Tour map at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau’s visitor information center. Starting from downtown follow the numbered signs posted along two routes offered to learn about the history and culture of this quaint town. Routes can be walked in as little as 60 minutes, but plan extra time to appreciate the sights and for entering attractions or shops along the way. Be sure to stroll along Creek Street. Visited by thousands of visitors every year, historic Creek Street is one of the most popular things to do in Ketchikan. The antique boardwalk on wooden pilings over Ketchikan Creek is home to restaurants, unique curio shops, the Dolly’s House Museum’ & private dwellings, as well as some of the best salmon viewing areas in Ketchikan.
Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and Eagle Center ($12 pp): This nonprofit center combines one of Alaska's best hatchery tours and a place to see a bald eagle close up. The wooden buildings stand over Ketchikan Creek. You can see fish climbing against the current up into pools where they are sorted before being cut open to complete their biological purpose (salmon die when they spawn anyway). The hatchery tours let you get so close, right in the action, where you can feed the growing salmon fry yourself. The hatchery produces king and silver salmon and steelhead trout. Visitors can also walk right through the eagle enclosure. The eagles hunt salmon swimming naturally through their enclosure. No glass stands between you and this activity, only a few feet away."
Monday, June 24, 2013
Come Play Xbox on Celebrity
Have you been thinking about a family vacation aboard a Celebrity Cruise Line ship, but are afraid the kids won’t have enough to do? No worries! Celebrity Cruises has joined forces with Microsoft’s Xbox, bringing the video game entertainment onto its ships. Slated to introduce one of the industry’s largest Xbox experiences at sea, Celebrity’s alliance boasts entertaining Xbox-themed spaces across its fleet, offering families interactive Xbox Games experiences for all ages!
Guests can anticipate enhancements to existing venues and onboard programming as soon as this summer, with the inclusion of Xbox-featured activities and gaming areas in the youth program’s Fun Factory and X-Club facilities. For kids who have been registered to participate by their parents, the Celebrity Xbox experience will offer exciting age-![]()
appropriate games and themed nights ranging from sports and dance to adventure and racing on Xbox 360 and Kinect for Xbox 360.
Adults also have the opportunity to connect and enjoy the Xbox experience through free play and at scheduled themed events, including Zumba® parties and sports tournaments, available on traveling Kinect for Xbox 360 consoles in different venues throughout the ships.
“The newly “Solsticized” Celebrity Constellation is the first of Celebrity’s ten ships to introduce the complete onboard Xbox experience when it re-entered service on May 5, 2013, after completing its scheduled drydock – just in time for families planning their summer vacations. The remaining Celebrity ships will offer Xbox 360 and Kinect for Xbox 360 this summer, and will unfold the full Xbox experience by the end of 2013.
The addition of Xbox aboard Celebrity ships offers another engaging ways for the whole family to enjoy a Celebrity “modern luxury vacation”."
Guests can anticipate enhancements to existing venues and onboard programming as soon as this summer, with the inclusion of Xbox-featured activities and gaming areas in the youth program’s Fun Factory and X-Club facilities. For kids who have been registered to participate by their parents, the Celebrity Xbox experience will offer exciting age-
Adults also have the opportunity to connect and enjoy the Xbox experience through free play and at scheduled themed events, including Zumba® parties and sports tournaments, available on traveling Kinect for Xbox 360 consoles in different venues throughout the ships.
“The newly “Solsticized” Celebrity Constellation is the first of Celebrity’s ten ships to introduce the complete onboard Xbox experience when it re-entered service on May 5, 2013, after completing its scheduled drydock – just in time for families planning their summer vacations. The remaining Celebrity ships will offer Xbox 360 and Kinect for Xbox 360 this summer, and will unfold the full Xbox experience by the end of 2013.
The addition of Xbox aboard Celebrity ships offers another engaging ways for the whole family to enjoy a Celebrity “modern luxury vacation”."
Monday, June 17, 2013
The Norwegian Breakaway's First Bride
A Direct Line Cruises' staff member was the first bride to be married aboard the Norwegian Breakaway! And regardless of how beautiful the new ship is, it couldn't outshine Lisa, the lovely bride. Here's her story, and who knows; it may inspire someone you know to get married onboard a cruise ship.
Hi Everyone! I just wanted to post a simple and short review of our wedding on the Norwegian Breakaway on June 2nd, 2013. We were the very first wedding on the Breakaway so it was a little scary not knowing what to expect. The reason we chose Breakaway is simply because it was the best option in the NY/NJ area. I love RCCL and Celebrity and have been on both of those ships, but the pier in NJ is not ideal. We thought it would be exciting to have our wedding on a brand new ship docked in Manhattan![]()
We started planning back in November 2011, a few months after we got engaged. Wedding Experience advised me that the first date of the weddings on the new ship was June 2nd, 2013. I was a little apprehensive about being on of the first, but the date was perfect so we booked it. We knew our closest friends and family would cruise with us afterwards so instead of calling it our honeymoon, it was our week-long wedding cruise. (Our real honeymoon is in September).
One reason that I am happy we had our wedding on a cruise is because it was just so easy! We didn't have to worry about numerous vendors and such because everything was handled by one office. Ozzy, from Royal Ocean Events was the person who helped me through the last months of confirming everything. She was fantastic and really made me feel at ease. She would respond to my emails within 24 hours and would call me at a specific time if I requested her to. I still can't believe how easy everything was and how smoothly things went because of Royal Ocean Events.
Like I said earlier our wedding took place Sunday June 2nd, 2013 on the ship docked in Manhattan. We had a total of 107 guests at the reception with 22 of them cruising with us afterwards. We chose a sit-down lunch reception which took place in the Manhattan Room right after the ceremony in the same location. When we arrived Sunday morning I met with our main coordinator Tammi, and four other coordinators. They quickly took me and my sailing guests through security and check in. Our non-sailing guests checked in before going through security so I did not get to see most of them until the ceremony. At around 11am, as we were check in in, Tammi told me we got cleared for boarding! I was ecstatic that I would have almost an hour to get dressed and relax before the ceremony which was scheduled for 12:15pm.![]()
When we boarded we entered right by the Manhattan Room which was perfect. Tammi, my mother, sister and I headed up to my stateroom to get dressed. I booked a category S7 suite which was a penthouse. I highly recommend booking a suite if you are planning a wedding in port as it allows you enough room to get ready. I had a separate living area and bedroom and a huge bathroom. My mom and sister were able to stay in the living room, while I had the whole bedroom to get dressed. If I booked a standard room it would have been extremely difficult and stressful to have my mom and sister help me get ready.
Around 11:45 my photographer, Carly, stopped by to introduce herself and ask what kind of photos I preferred. She was so sweet and helpful and our pictures came out amazing! So by 12:00pm we were heading back down to the Manhattan Room for the ceremony. Our officiate was Captain Arnold who delivered a beautiful ceremony.
Right after the ceremony Carly asked if I wanted to have some pictures taken around the ship and of course I said yes! Tammi said we had fifteen minutes, but we were probably gone for about a half an hour. We were already on deck 7 so I told Carly I wanted pictures by the chandelier and in O'Sheehans. She also suggested Shakers and Spice H20 (outside) The outside pictures were definitely my favorite and I am so happy she suggested it. I am so happy the way our pictures turned out. We have about 30 from around the ship and there really aren’t any bad ones. By the way, we added on the![]()
high resolution DVD of all images taken by our photographer. She took about 170 pictures in 2 hours so I am very happy we decided to do that.
I did not have time to eat anything but our guests seemed to enjoy the luncheon. We also had a DJ who played background and dance music. We didn't have much time to dance, but it was fun nevertheless. So, am I happy I chose a cruise wedding? ABSOLUTELY! It was an incredible day and I was beyond happy with the way it turned out. The Breakaway is an amazing ship and we had a great week with friends and family following the wedding.
By the way, I kept my dress on throughout sailaway and dinner. I am happy I did, but we got soooo much attention."
Hi Everyone! I just wanted to post a simple and short review of our wedding on the Norwegian Breakaway on June 2nd, 2013. We were the very first wedding on the Breakaway so it was a little scary not knowing what to expect. The reason we chose Breakaway is simply because it was the best option in the NY/NJ area. I love RCCL and Celebrity and have been on both of those ships, but the pier in NJ is not ideal. We thought it would be exciting to have our wedding on a brand new ship docked in Manhattan
We started planning back in November 2011, a few months after we got engaged. Wedding Experience advised me that the first date of the weddings on the new ship was June 2nd, 2013. I was a little apprehensive about being on of the first, but the date was perfect so we booked it. We knew our closest friends and family would cruise with us afterwards so instead of calling it our honeymoon, it was our week-long wedding cruise. (Our real honeymoon is in September).
One reason that I am happy we had our wedding on a cruise is because it was just so easy! We didn't have to worry about numerous vendors and such because everything was handled by one office. Ozzy, from Royal Ocean Events was the person who helped me through the last months of confirming everything. She was fantastic and really made me feel at ease. She would respond to my emails within 24 hours and would call me at a specific time if I requested her to. I still can't believe how easy everything was and how smoothly things went because of Royal Ocean Events.
Like I said earlier our wedding took place Sunday June 2nd, 2013 on the ship docked in Manhattan. We had a total of 107 guests at the reception with 22 of them cruising with us afterwards. We chose a sit-down lunch reception which took place in the Manhattan Room right after the ceremony in the same location. When we arrived Sunday morning I met with our main coordinator Tammi, and four other coordinators. They quickly took me and my sailing guests through security and check in. Our non-sailing guests checked in before going through security so I did not get to see most of them until the ceremony. At around 11am, as we were check in in, Tammi told me we got cleared for boarding! I was ecstatic that I would have almost an hour to get dressed and relax before the ceremony which was scheduled for 12:15pm.
When we boarded we entered right by the Manhattan Room which was perfect. Tammi, my mother, sister and I headed up to my stateroom to get dressed. I booked a category S7 suite which was a penthouse. I highly recommend booking a suite if you are planning a wedding in port as it allows you enough room to get ready. I had a separate living area and bedroom and a huge bathroom. My mom and sister were able to stay in the living room, while I had the whole bedroom to get dressed. If I booked a standard room it would have been extremely difficult and stressful to have my mom and sister help me get ready.
Around 11:45 my photographer, Carly, stopped by to introduce herself and ask what kind of photos I preferred. She was so sweet and helpful and our pictures came out amazing! So by 12:00pm we were heading back down to the Manhattan Room for the ceremony. Our officiate was Captain Arnold who delivered a beautiful ceremony.
Right after the ceremony Carly asked if I wanted to have some pictures taken around the ship and of course I said yes! Tammi said we had fifteen minutes, but we were probably gone for about a half an hour. We were already on deck 7 so I told Carly I wanted pictures by the chandelier and in O'Sheehans. She also suggested Shakers and Spice H20 (outside) The outside pictures were definitely my favorite and I am so happy she suggested it. I am so happy the way our pictures turned out. We have about 30 from around the ship and there really aren’t any bad ones. By the way, we added on the
I did not have time to eat anything but our guests seemed to enjoy the luncheon. We also had a DJ who played background and dance music. We didn't have much time to dance, but it was fun nevertheless. So, am I happy I chose a cruise wedding? ABSOLUTELY! It was an incredible day and I was beyond happy with the way it turned out. The Breakaway is an amazing ship and we had a great week with friends and family following the wedding.
By the way, I kept my dress on throughout sailaway and dinner. I am happy I did, but we got soooo much attention."
Monday, June 10, 2013
Packing For Your Alaska Cruise
Alaska cruises offer travelers the opportunity to enjoy all the luxuries that today’s cruise ships offer, combined with the![]()
rugged beauty of Alaska itself. And while some people think they'll need to be bundled up in their down coats and snow boots for the duration, that’s just not true! Alaska's cruise season runs from May to September, and the weather fluctuates between 50 and 70 degrees, sometimes reaching the mid-80’s in the afternoon, while occasionally dropping to 30 or 40 degrees at night. There’s a good chance you’ll encounter some rain during your cruise (especially in August), but snow is highly unlikely. And therein lies the challenge. What do you pack differently when going on an Alaska cruise?
When you pack for an Alaska cruise, think layering, taking light, medium and some heavy weight casual, comfortable clothing. Shirts that layer easily such as t-shirts, turtlenecks, fleece sweaters and sweatshirts will come in most handy. Moisture-wicking under-layers are a great choice for both men and women that are planning active outdoor activities such as hiking, glacier trekking, kayaking, etc.
Water-resistant or waterproof outerwear is a must. This could be a slicker, rain poncho, or gortex jacket, preferably hooded. Waterproof gloves will take up little space in your suitcase and you won’t regret having them while spending extended hours on deck watching for glaciers, whales and dolphins.
Bring comfortable walking or hiking shoes, depending on the activities you have planned. They need to have good traction for wet deck and ashore activities. Sneakers will do, but not for cold glacier tours (where you'll also need warm socks).![]()
Backpacks or a nylon sling bag are a must for going ashore. They easily store any extra clothing layers that are peeled off, rain ponchos, cameras or souvenirs bought in port. And don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. It may not be a tropical destination, but the sun's UV rays are strong in Alaska and the sun off of the ice can be very intense. Insect repellent, binoculars, a travel umbrella, and a spare memory card for your camera are other items you’ll be glad to have.
Sea days are casual on an Alaska cruise and even the formal evenings are a bit less formal than other itineraries. Pack the bathing suits because as I said earlier, afternoons can be warm and in addition, many ships have enclosed pool areas.
The bottom line is that southeast Alaska is not the frozen arctic that many presume it to be. Temperatures fluctuate but it you bring clothes that can be easily layered, as well as a waterproof jacket, you’ll be all ready to explore America’s Last Frontier!"
When you pack for an Alaska cruise, think layering, taking light, medium and some heavy weight casual, comfortable clothing. Shirts that layer easily such as t-shirts, turtlenecks, fleece sweaters and sweatshirts will come in most handy. Moisture-wicking under-layers are a great choice for both men and women that are planning active outdoor activities such as hiking, glacier trekking, kayaking, etc.
Water-resistant or waterproof outerwear is a must. This could be a slicker, rain poncho, or gortex jacket, preferably hooded. Waterproof gloves will take up little space in your suitcase and you won’t regret having them while spending extended hours on deck watching for glaciers, whales and dolphins.
Bring comfortable walking or hiking shoes, depending on the activities you have planned. They need to have good traction for wet deck and ashore activities. Sneakers will do, but not for cold glacier tours (where you'll also need warm socks).
Backpacks or a nylon sling bag are a must for going ashore. They easily store any extra clothing layers that are peeled off, rain ponchos, cameras or souvenirs bought in port. And don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. It may not be a tropical destination, but the sun's UV rays are strong in Alaska and the sun off of the ice can be very intense. Insect repellent, binoculars, a travel umbrella, and a spare memory card for your camera are other items you’ll be glad to have.
Sea days are casual on an Alaska cruise and even the formal evenings are a bit less formal than other itineraries. Pack the bathing suits because as I said earlier, afternoons can be warm and in addition, many ships have enclosed pool areas.
The bottom line is that southeast Alaska is not the frozen arctic that many presume it to be. Temperatures fluctuate but it you bring clothes that can be easily layered, as well as a waterproof jacket, you’ll be all ready to explore America’s Last Frontier!"
Monday, June 03, 2013
Destination Immersive Experiences with Azamara Club Cruises
Imagine a cruise line that believed its guests wanted to spend more time in port and less time at sea! Envision a cruise line that believes it can market itself to a sophisticated class of travelers who not only want to see the places they visit, but to live them…by interacting with local people, by enjoying the native food, and by becoming inspired by the culture. What a radical idea! Yet, it is those philosophies that are the foundation of Azamara Club Cruises.
Azamara Club Cruises specializes in destination immersion and goes about achieving this in various ways, the most obvious by spending more time in port than other cruise lines do. This allows guests more time to take in-depth tours or venture further away from the port city. In addition, when your ship is in port until 10 PM, midnight, or in many cases overnight, the opportunity arises for night touring! Having that extra time to dine at a local trattoria, take in an evening at the opera or simply stroll around after all the tour busses have gone, adds so much to your overall port experience! On my recent cruise aboard the Azamara Quest, an overnight stay in Barcelona allowed us to take in a late night flamenco show with dinner, that we otherwise would not have been able to schedule. We feasted on gazpacho, paella, jamón ibérico, washing it all down with fruity sangria and cava!
Azamara is taking destination immersion to a whole new level with AzAmazing Evenings. These complimentary![]()
onshore events, not open to the general public, offer an up-close experience of local traditions—dance, music, theater and cuisine—in gorgeous private settings and landmarks. For my cruise, it was the Royal Gibraltar Regiment Band and Corps of Drums in the magical setting of St. Michael’s Cave. During intermission guests nibbled on tapas and sipped wine. The evening was enchanting and was certainly something I’ll remember forever!
Many Azamara voyages encompass a special event that will take you to the heart of local culture; an opportunity for a distinctive cultural experience. Such special events include the Chelsea Flower Show in London or Carnivale in Rio! The cruise I took included an overnight in Seville during La Feria de Abril (April Fair). This is not a fair created to entertain tourists, but a special yearly tradition the people of the city look forward to. We strolled through the fair grounds and watched a procession called the ‘Paseo de Caballos’ in which local girls in their full flamenco outfit are pulled through the city in beautiful carriages by splendid horses! Music filled the air, and people were dancing in the streets! It was wonderful!![]()
Even shore excursions, called Land Discoveries, offer so much more. Reservations at exclusive local restaurants, visits to vineyards where guests can meet with the people who actually make the wine, or special shopping opportunities all emphasize the “cultural track” an Azamara voyage takes you on. For those that prefer to explore on their own, the Azamara staff is on hand to hand out maps as well as share their knowledge of “must sees”, and little known special spots!
Traveling with Azamara is a memorable, one of a kind cruise vacation. Their philosophy of destination immersion allows guests to discover the essence of a place through its people, cuisine, and customs. Indeed that was my experience. Shouldn’t that be yours?
Azamara Club Cruises specializes in destination immersion and goes about achieving this in various ways, the most obvious by spending more time in port than other cruise lines do. This allows guests more time to take in-depth tours or venture further away from the port city. In addition, when your ship is in port until 10 PM, midnight, or in many cases overnight, the opportunity arises for night touring! Having that extra time to dine at a local trattoria, take in an evening at the opera or simply stroll around after all the tour busses have gone, adds so much to your overall port experience! On my recent cruise aboard the Azamara Quest, an overnight stay in Barcelona allowed us to take in a late night flamenco show with dinner, that we otherwise would not have been able to schedule. We feasted on gazpacho, paella, jamón ibérico, washing it all down with fruity sangria and cava!
Azamara is taking destination immersion to a whole new level with AzAmazing Evenings. These complimentary
Many Azamara voyages encompass a special event that will take you to the heart of local culture; an opportunity for a distinctive cultural experience. Such special events include the Chelsea Flower Show in London or Carnivale in Rio! The cruise I took included an overnight in Seville during La Feria de Abril (April Fair). This is not a fair created to entertain tourists, but a special yearly tradition the people of the city look forward to. We strolled through the fair grounds and watched a procession called the ‘Paseo de Caballos’ in which local girls in their full flamenco outfit are pulled through the city in beautiful carriages by splendid horses! Music filled the air, and people were dancing in the streets! It was wonderful!
Even shore excursions, called Land Discoveries, offer so much more. Reservations at exclusive local restaurants, visits to vineyards where guests can meet with the people who actually make the wine, or special shopping opportunities all emphasize the “cultural track” an Azamara voyage takes you on. For those that prefer to explore on their own, the Azamara staff is on hand to hand out maps as well as share their knowledge of “must sees”, and little known special spots!
Traveling with Azamara is a memorable, one of a kind cruise vacation. Their philosophy of destination immersion allows guests to discover the essence of a place through its people, cuisine, and customs. Indeed that was my experience. Shouldn’t that be yours?
Thursday, May 23, 2013
The Direct Line Cruises Staff Reviews the Norwegian Breakaway
On May 10th the staff of Direct Line Cruises boarded the Norwegian Breakaway for a 2-night cruise to nowhere in order to get acquainted with the cruise line’s newest build. So, how would we rate the Norwegian Breakaway? Unequivocally and unanimously astounding!
The Norwegian Breakaway is the largest cruise ship ever to homeport year-round in New York City, and it has been dubbed “New York’s cruise ship”. We certainly felt a NYC vibe. It can be found everywhere… in the décor, the Broadway shows, and the ice sculpture of the Statue of Liberty in the Ice Bar. There are even real Sabrett hot dogs stands – the very same carts you see on New York City street corners – handing out free hot dogs on board!
678 Ocean Place is awesome! We loved the way the spaces flowed inside and out, and the way the levels (decks 6, 7 & 8, hence the name) interconnected; yet each area offered a different experience in dining and entertainment. The casino is there, shopping, and all the different restaurants and bars to suit every personality. The Ice Bar is as authentic as they come! Ice tables, ice chairs, ice sculpture and iced vodka! Thank goodness they gave us parkas and gloves before entering! We headed to Shaker’s Cocktail Bar for martinis and Maltings Beer & Whisky for an imported brew. However, The Vibe Beach Club was a favorite spot for many of us! This adult-only area has an oversized hot tub, big, comfy cabana-like chairs and of course a full service bar.
The Waterfront is brilliant! It’s more than a promenade. It’s a quarter-mile oceanfront boardwalk! Stroll a while or stop like we did, and order a dish of crispy calamari to be washed down with a cold glass of chardonnay. There’s plenty of seating so you can gaze out into the ocean or people watch while you savor a cup of creamy gelato. Take our word for it – it was delicious! Or dine al fresco in on of the many restaurants that offer outdoor seating. And speaking of dining…it can only be described as a gastro experience! There are 27 dining options including French, Italian, Japanese, a Brazilian steakhouse, and sushi. Then, there are the exciting new venues by Geoffrey Zakarian: Ocean Blue, Ocean Blue on the Waterfront, and The Raw Bar! Our only regret was that we couldn’t try them all!
We toured a wide variety of cabin accommodations. With so many options, from studios to family accommodations, to the luxurious Haven, there is something for everyone. All the cabins we toured were nicely appointed. Of course, The Haven is the pinnacle of cruise ship accommodations, elegant and private with very special amenities. A suite in The Haven would be perfect for that special anniversary celebration, or as one of our agents said, “It’s a must at least once.”
We have so much more to share, but we’re out of space! The Norwegian Breakaway is so much more than a cruise vacation. It’s a resort vacation at sea! But don’t take our word for it. There’s no better way to experience the Norwegian Breakaway than to book the Norwegian Breakaway for yourself!"
The Norwegian Breakaway is the largest cruise ship ever to homeport year-round in New York City, and it has been dubbed “New York’s cruise ship”. We certainly felt a NYC vibe. It can be found everywhere… in the décor, the Broadway shows, and the ice sculpture of the Statue of Liberty in the Ice Bar. There are even real Sabrett hot dogs stands – the very same carts you see on New York City street corners – handing out free hot dogs on board!
678 Ocean Place is awesome! We loved the way the spaces flowed inside and out, and the way the levels (decks 6, 7 & 8, hence the name) interconnected; yet each area offered a different experience in dining and entertainment. The casino is there, shopping, and all the different restaurants and bars to suit every personality. The Ice Bar is as authentic as they come! Ice tables, ice chairs, ice sculpture and iced vodka! Thank goodness they gave us parkas and gloves before entering! We headed to Shaker’s Cocktail Bar for martinis and Maltings Beer & Whisky for an imported brew. However, The Vibe Beach Club was a favorite spot for many of us! This adult-only area has an oversized hot tub, big, comfy cabana-like chairs and of course a full service bar.
The Waterfront is brilliant! It’s more than a promenade. It’s a quarter-mile oceanfront boardwalk! Stroll a while or stop like we did, and order a dish of crispy calamari to be washed down with a cold glass of chardonnay. There’s plenty of seating so you can gaze out into the ocean or people watch while you savor a cup of creamy gelato. Take our word for it – it was delicious! Or dine al fresco in on of the many restaurants that offer outdoor seating. And speaking of dining…it can only be described as a gastro experience! There are 27 dining options including French, Italian, Japanese, a Brazilian steakhouse, and sushi. Then, there are the exciting new venues by Geoffrey Zakarian: Ocean Blue, Ocean Blue on the Waterfront, and The Raw Bar! Our only regret was that we couldn’t try them all!
No other ship compares to the Norwegian Breakaway’s variety of onboard entertainment and we can’t stop raving about it! We saw “Rock of Ages” and have to say the performance was as good as any Broadway production! We marveled at the energy and grace of the dancers from “Burn the Floor”. We took in an interactive comedy show by Second City and are pleased to report it was really funny! Some of us went to Fat Cats Jazz Club while others got comfortable singing along with the dueling pianos of “Howl with the Moon”. Still others danced the night way at Bliss. This is a ship for night owls and for people that want to party late into the night!
Of course we checked out all the children’s area (Splash Academy) and the teen facilities (Entourage). After all, we’re parents or grandparents too! Bright, colorful, experienced counselors and great programming! The Aqua Park is a little person’s paradise. And in case you weren’t aware, Sponge Bob and friends are on every sailing!We toured a wide variety of cabin accommodations. With so many options, from studios to family accommodations, to the luxurious Haven, there is something for everyone. All the cabins we toured were nicely appointed. Of course, The Haven is the pinnacle of cruise ship accommodations, elegant and private with very special amenities. A suite in The Haven would be perfect for that special anniversary celebration, or as one of our agents said, “It’s a must at least once.”
We have so much more to share, but we’re out of space! The Norwegian Breakaway is so much more than a cruise vacation. It’s a resort vacation at sea! But don’t take our word for it. There’s no better way to experience the Norwegian Breakaway than to book the Norwegian Breakaway for yourself!"
Wednesday, May 08, 2013
It’s “54 Below” on the Celebrity Summit!
54 Below” is the place to go for an unforgettable New York nightlife experience. Featuring exclusive performances by the best of the “Great White Way”, it has become the home away from home for Broadway professionals. It’s permanent location is in a cool, cozy cellar space beneath the legendary, disco-era ""Studio 54, however, for a limited time, those same stars will light up the stage of Celebrity Summit!
Among the talent scheduled to appear on Celebrity Summit through “54 Below” are Faith Prince, Tony Award winner for best actress in a musical for ‘Guys & Dolls’; Tony Award winner for best actress in a musical in ‘A Chorus Line,’ Donna McKechnie; Anthony Rapp, best known for originating the role of Mark Cohen in ‘Rent’; Jarrod Spector, who starred as Frankie Valli in ‘Jersey Boys,’ and Alice Ripley, who won a Tony for best actress in a musical for ‘Next to Normal’ and also has appeared in ‘Les Miserables’ and ‘Sunset Boulevard.’ Numerous other stars are booked, too, with credits from hit television show ‘Glee’ to ‘The Full Monty’ and ‘Billy Elliot.’
54 Below” will perform on Celebrity Summit on its Bermuda cruises from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, N.J., from May through October."
Among the talent scheduled to appear on Celebrity Summit through “54 Below” are Faith Prince, Tony Award winner for best actress in a musical for ‘Guys & Dolls’; Tony Award winner for best actress in a musical in ‘A Chorus Line,’ Donna McKechnie; Anthony Rapp, best known for originating the role of Mark Cohen in ‘Rent’; Jarrod Spector, who starred as Frankie Valli in ‘Jersey Boys,’ and Alice Ripley, who won a Tony for best actress in a musical for ‘Next to Normal’ and also has appeared in ‘Les Miserables’ and ‘Sunset Boulevard.’ Numerous other stars are booked, too, with credits from hit television show ‘Glee’ to ‘The Full Monty’ and ‘Billy Elliot.’
54 Below” will perform on Celebrity Summit on its Bermuda cruises from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, N.J., from May through October."
Monday, May 06, 2013
Azamara “Club” Cruises…The Name Says it All
The name Azamara rolls off my tongue with the fluidity commonly found in a romance language. The name is a composite word derived from “Aza” meaning blue and “Mar” meaning sea. In addition, the star, Acamar, inspired it. In classical times, the star Acamar was the most southerly bright star that could be seen form the latitude of Greece. But how does the “Club Cruise” belong in the name in? Actually, it is quite apropos!
“Club” implies a sense of belonging, or being a part of something. An association dedicated to a particular interest or activity. In the case of Azamara, it’s an implied membership; an affinity to take the road less traveled, explore the world, and immerse oneself in diverse cultures. I must say, after my recent cruise on the Azamara Quest, I definitely buy into that philosophy! There’s a feeling of camaraderie on an Azamara voyage between guests and staff and guests and other guests. Nobody is a stranger for long. Whenever we returned from a day in port, the staff greeted us with a ""Welcome Home,"" and it actually did feel like we were returning to a real home away from home!![]()
Inviting, intimate social spaces throughout the ship emphasize the cordial club-like atmosphere, and can’t help but foster friendly conservation with fellow global travelers. Discoveries Lounge, located just outside the main restaurant, is a congenial bar that’s a favorite gathering place for pre- and post-dinner conversation and drinks. I found it to be the perfect spot to meet friends before heading into the dining room. If any one of us were running late the rest of us would sit here and enjoy a glass of wine in the comfortable surroundings. Fellow guests would congregate and everyone would share the details of their day in port.
My favorite spot onboard was the Mosaic Café, which I felt was the heart of the ship. It’s a great spot to pick up a quick bite to eat or dream away the time with a cappuccino and good book. More importantly, both spaces made me feel like I was sitting in someone’s living room, as there were always other guests there ready to chat about what they were reading, or their thoughts on the amazing places we were traveling to. Within days of embarkation I knew many of my fellow cruisers by name, and many more at least by sight.
Don’t think of missing Azamara’s poolside buffet and party, held at least once on every cruise. Colorful décor, linen-draped tables, and a fabulous buffet feast make this an event like no other…I felt like I was at a dinner party on someone’s private yacht! The evening commences with soft background music that transitions to a live band to dance the night away! I’ve never experienced anything like it on any other cruise line and it was a highlight of our trip!![]()
Dinner was never a cattle call. We strolled down to the dining room a different time each evening and were usually seated without a wait. The menus were varied and inspiring and everything I ordered was beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. The dress code onboard is resort casual which I found to be an easy and comfortable way to both pack and dress.
The fact that there are so many amenities that are included at no additional charge makes you feel more like a guest and less like a consumer! It was so nice not to have to sign for every drink, smoothie or gelato! Bottled water was always available, including in the gym and in a big cooler readily available to grab as you exit the ship for a day in port. In addition, the gratuities for housekeeping, dining and the bar staff were included so there is no need to calculate tips and pass out envelopes. And may I mention what a treat it was to have freshly squeezed orange juice each morning for no additional charge!
The Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, are beautifully designed midsize vessels carrying only 694 passengers, so you will never feel lost in the crowd. A voyage with Azamara Club Cruises is much more than just a cruise. Like the name suggests, the ambiance onboard is much like that of a country club. You truly feel a part of an elite group, traveling in a way that many will never experience."
“Club” implies a sense of belonging, or being a part of something. An association dedicated to a particular interest or activity. In the case of Azamara, it’s an implied membership; an affinity to take the road less traveled, explore the world, and immerse oneself in diverse cultures. I must say, after my recent cruise on the Azamara Quest, I definitely buy into that philosophy! There’s a feeling of camaraderie on an Azamara voyage between guests and staff and guests and other guests. Nobody is a stranger for long. Whenever we returned from a day in port, the staff greeted us with a ""Welcome Home,"" and it actually did feel like we were returning to a real home away from home!
Inviting, intimate social spaces throughout the ship emphasize the cordial club-like atmosphere, and can’t help but foster friendly conservation with fellow global travelers. Discoveries Lounge, located just outside the main restaurant, is a congenial bar that’s a favorite gathering place for pre- and post-dinner conversation and drinks. I found it to be the perfect spot to meet friends before heading into the dining room. If any one of us were running late the rest of us would sit here and enjoy a glass of wine in the comfortable surroundings. Fellow guests would congregate and everyone would share the details of their day in port.
My favorite spot onboard was the Mosaic Café, which I felt was the heart of the ship. It’s a great spot to pick up a quick bite to eat or dream away the time with a cappuccino and good book. More importantly, both spaces made me feel like I was sitting in someone’s living room, as there were always other guests there ready to chat about what they were reading, or their thoughts on the amazing places we were traveling to. Within days of embarkation I knew many of my fellow cruisers by name, and many more at least by sight.
Don’t think of missing Azamara’s poolside buffet and party, held at least once on every cruise. Colorful décor, linen-draped tables, and a fabulous buffet feast make this an event like no other…I felt like I was at a dinner party on someone’s private yacht! The evening commences with soft background music that transitions to a live band to dance the night away! I’ve never experienced anything like it on any other cruise line and it was a highlight of our trip!
Dinner was never a cattle call. We strolled down to the dining room a different time each evening and were usually seated without a wait. The menus were varied and inspiring and everything I ordered was beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. The dress code onboard is resort casual which I found to be an easy and comfortable way to both pack and dress.
The fact that there are so many amenities that are included at no additional charge makes you feel more like a guest and less like a consumer! It was so nice not to have to sign for every drink, smoothie or gelato! Bottled water was always available, including in the gym and in a big cooler readily available to grab as you exit the ship for a day in port. In addition, the gratuities for housekeeping, dining and the bar staff were included so there is no need to calculate tips and pass out envelopes. And may I mention what a treat it was to have freshly squeezed orange juice each morning for no additional charge!
The Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, are beautifully designed midsize vessels carrying only 694 passengers, so you will never feel lost in the crowd. A voyage with Azamara Club Cruises is much more than just a cruise. Like the name suggests, the ambiance onboard is much like that of a country club. You truly feel a part of an elite group, traveling in a way that many will never experience."
Monday, April 22, 2013
How to Select the Perfect Stateroom For Your Cruise
A look at the deck plan of a recently built cruise ship is enough to intimidate even the most seasoned cruiser! The rainbow of colors designating cabin / stateroom category (the terms are interchangeable) can exceed 20 on some of the larger vessels. How do you make sense of it all and pick the perfect stateroom? It’s a lot easier than it appears, once you know the basics.![]()
Cruise ship staterooms are comparably smaller than hotel rooms, but are designed for comfort and efficiency. At the very least you can expect a bed, (often two twins that push together to become a queen), nightstands, a desk / dressing table with a mirror, a desk chair, dresser, television, and sometimes a loveseat and coffee table. For cabins accommodating 3 or 4 guests there will beds that flip down, sofa beds or trundle beds. All staterooms have a private bathroom with shower; tubs are usually standard in the suite categories. Disney Cruise Line is the exception, as its family-friendly stateroom design includes a tub.![]()
Choosing your perfect stateroom is a matter of personal choice with budget and desired location being determining factors. Sometimes you must sacrifice one to get the other. At the most basic level, staterooms can be categorized as “inside” (no window), outside / oceanview (having a port hole or picture window), balcony / veranda (having a door that opens on to a small private balcony) or suite (a larger cabin, sometimes with more then one room). Inside cabins are the least expensive, with suites being the most expensive. Guests staying in a suite will be privy to additional amenities, depending on the particular suite and cruise line. Within each of the above categories, pricing is further determined by location. Midship cabins on higher decks will cost more than cabins on lower decks and cabins that are located forward or aft.![]()
In recent years these four basic categories have been subdivided even further. On select ships Royal Caribbean has what they call interior “promenade cabins” with windows that look into the Royal Promenade area of the ship- a lively corridor of shops, bars and eateries. Royal Caribbean Oasis-class ships have “neighborhood view” and “neighborhood balcony” categories with views of Central Park or the Boardwalk are of the ship. Norwegian Cruise Line has studio cabins made for solo travelers on select ships, as well as the private and luxurious Haven complex. Celebrity Cruise Line and others now feature “spa” cabin categories, which give guests more direct access to the ships spa, as well as additional services and amenities.
Concierge cabins and butler service can take your cruise experience to a whole other level. The price jump is significant but many find the level of service they receive, as well as the additional niceties make it well worth the price. Among other things, the concierge can make dinner, show and spa reservations for you, and print airline boarding passes. Some cruise lines have a dedicated Concierge Lounge for private breakfasts and cocktails before dinner. Butlers will serve your meals should you choose to eat in your suite and even pack and unpack for you!![]()
Now that we’ve covered the basics, here is some additional information you should take under consideration when selecting your perfect stateroom:
* No cabin is “underwater”, even if you’re on the lowest passenger deck.
* Looking at a deck plan, keep in mind that below what you may perceive to be the lowest deck, are additional decks not shown (crews quarters).
* If you are worried about, or are prone to seasickness, select a mid ship cabin on a lower deck.
* If you have minor mobility issues look for a stateroom closer to an elevator bank.
* If you need an accessible cabin, keep in mind that there is limited availability, so book early.
* Watch for public areas or service areas nearby any cabin you are considering. A cabin on a deck that is sandwiched between other passenger decks is generally a quiet area.
* Beware of cabins directly beneath the pool deck. The set up of lounges in the early morning and / or late night pool parties can sometimes be noisy.
* A cabin ""guarantee"" is one in which you pay for the cabin category you are willing to take, but you allow the cruise line to select the cabin for you. You are guaranteed to get accommodated in at least the category you have selected; you will never get a lower category. Do not opt for a cabin guarantee unless you can honestly say it would not matter where your cabin is located. If you are hoping for an upgrade, you are setting yourself up for a big disappointment.
* Aft balcony cabins are sought after for a view second to none, as well as an extended balcony that can fit lounge chairs."
Cruise ship staterooms are comparably smaller than hotel rooms, but are designed for comfort and efficiency. At the very least you can expect a bed, (often two twins that push together to become a queen), nightstands, a desk / dressing table with a mirror, a desk chair, dresser, television, and sometimes a loveseat and coffee table. For cabins accommodating 3 or 4 guests there will beds that flip down, sofa beds or trundle beds. All staterooms have a private bathroom with shower; tubs are usually standard in the suite categories. Disney Cruise Line is the exception, as its family-friendly stateroom design includes a tub.
Choosing your perfect stateroom is a matter of personal choice with budget and desired location being determining factors. Sometimes you must sacrifice one to get the other. At the most basic level, staterooms can be categorized as “inside” (no window), outside / oceanview (having a port hole or picture window), balcony / veranda (having a door that opens on to a small private balcony) or suite (a larger cabin, sometimes with more then one room). Inside cabins are the least expensive, with suites being the most expensive. Guests staying in a suite will be privy to additional amenities, depending on the particular suite and cruise line. Within each of the above categories, pricing is further determined by location. Midship cabins on higher decks will cost more than cabins on lower decks and cabins that are located forward or aft.
In recent years these four basic categories have been subdivided even further. On select ships Royal Caribbean has what they call interior “promenade cabins” with windows that look into the Royal Promenade area of the ship- a lively corridor of shops, bars and eateries. Royal Caribbean Oasis-class ships have “neighborhood view” and “neighborhood balcony” categories with views of Central Park or the Boardwalk are of the ship. Norwegian Cruise Line has studio cabins made for solo travelers on select ships, as well as the private and luxurious Haven complex. Celebrity Cruise Line and others now feature “spa” cabin categories, which give guests more direct access to the ships spa, as well as additional services and amenities.
Concierge cabins and butler service can take your cruise experience to a whole other level. The price jump is significant but many find the level of service they receive, as well as the additional niceties make it well worth the price. Among other things, the concierge can make dinner, show and spa reservations for you, and print airline boarding passes. Some cruise lines have a dedicated Concierge Lounge for private breakfasts and cocktails before dinner. Butlers will serve your meals should you choose to eat in your suite and even pack and unpack for you!
Now that we’ve covered the basics, here is some additional information you should take under consideration when selecting your perfect stateroom:
* No cabin is “underwater”, even if you’re on the lowest passenger deck.
* Looking at a deck plan, keep in mind that below what you may perceive to be the lowest deck, are additional decks not shown (crews quarters).
* If you are worried about, or are prone to seasickness, select a mid ship cabin on a lower deck.
* If you have minor mobility issues look for a stateroom closer to an elevator bank.
* If you need an accessible cabin, keep in mind that there is limited availability, so book early.
* Watch for public areas or service areas nearby any cabin you are considering. A cabin on a deck that is sandwiched between other passenger decks is generally a quiet area.
* Beware of cabins directly beneath the pool deck. The set up of lounges in the early morning and / or late night pool parties can sometimes be noisy.
* A cabin ""guarantee"" is one in which you pay for the cabin category you are willing to take, but you allow the cruise line to select the cabin for you. You are guaranteed to get accommodated in at least the category you have selected; you will never get a lower category. Do not opt for a cabin guarantee unless you can honestly say it would not matter where your cabin is located. If you are hoping for an upgrade, you are setting yourself up for a big disappointment.
* Aft balcony cabins are sought after for a view second to none, as well as an extended balcony that can fit lounge chairs."
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
A First Look at Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas
Webster defines “Quantum” as unit of measurement. RoyalCaribbean defines “Quantum of the Seas” as a quantum leap forward in measuring the WOW! According to Adam Goldstein, CEO of Royal Caribbean, this new build will be measurably more exciting; measurably more interactive and measurably more entertaining!
Imagine a giant glass bubble, with a guest capacity of 14, attached to a giant mechanical arm that rotates 300 feet above the ocean! That's North Star! Inspired by the London Eye, each 15 minute ride will give guests a view like no other!
If that’s to tame for your adventure loving spirit, you’ll want to try the Rip Cord by iFly, the first simulated skydiving adventure at sea! This 75-minute experience is done in a two-story vertical wind tunnel, where after “flight” instruction, guests will float and hover as if free-falling from a plane.
After the above adventures, bumper cars seem quite tame…until you remind yourself this is all happening aboard a 167,800-ton cruise ship! SeaPlex, a huge indoor activity venue will handle an assortment of activities throughout the day and night, including the cars. There will be a circus school that teaches juggling and trapeze, roller skating (the ice rink has been eliminated), ping pong, and a basketball court. A food truck will be “parked” in case you’re hit with a case of the munchies.![]()
Two70° is the “great room” of Quantum of the Seas. The space is a modern, open area living room with magnificent 270° panoramic views. In the morning it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax with a cup of coffee while taking in the scenery from vast floor to ceiling windows spanning two-and-a-half decks high. During the day, different activities will be going on. By night, Two70° transforms into its evening persona through the use of projection technology allowing for digital scenery to accompany entertainment options such as aerialist performers. And did I mention there also happens to be an ice bar serving up your favorite cocktails? You can hang out here all day and night!
The Music Hall will feature dance classes and improv workshops during the day, and will come alive at night as the heart of the ship’s entertainment. Live bands, musicians, DJs, and theme nights make every evening exciting. The space is home to the self-leveling billiard tables, originally found on Radiance-class ships.![]()
On average, Quantum’s staterooms will be nine percent larger than those on the Oasis-class ships, and have a more residential “feel”. The new modular family-connected rooms will help families or groups find the perfect layout. Suite options will include three junior suite categories, a family junior suite with a full bath and a half, and loft suites located across the stern of the ship.
Studio cabins will include 12 with balconies and 16 inside cabins. All of the interior cabins on the Quantum will feature “virtual balconies” with wall-length digital projections of real-time views of what’s happening outside the ship, whether you’re at sea or in port. You can turn the projections on and off any time you wish.
Bookings on the Quantum of the Seas will be available to Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program members starting May 27, 2013 before opening to the general public on June 4. Quantum will sail out of the New York Harbor from her homeport of Cape Liberty on 7- to 12-night itineraries beginning November 2014."
Imagine a giant glass bubble, with a guest capacity of 14, attached to a giant mechanical arm that rotates 300 feet above the ocean! That's North Star! Inspired by the London Eye, each 15 minute ride will give guests a view like no other!
If that’s to tame for your adventure loving spirit, you’ll want to try the Rip Cord by iFly, the first simulated skydiving adventure at sea! This 75-minute experience is done in a two-story vertical wind tunnel, where after “flight” instruction, guests will float and hover as if free-falling from a plane.
After the above adventures, bumper cars seem quite tame…until you remind yourself this is all happening aboard a 167,800-ton cruise ship! SeaPlex, a huge indoor activity venue will handle an assortment of activities throughout the day and night, including the cars. There will be a circus school that teaches juggling and trapeze, roller skating (the ice rink has been eliminated), ping pong, and a basketball court. A food truck will be “parked” in case you’re hit with a case of the munchies.
Two70° is the “great room” of Quantum of the Seas. The space is a modern, open area living room with magnificent 270° panoramic views. In the morning it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax with a cup of coffee while taking in the scenery from vast floor to ceiling windows spanning two-and-a-half decks high. During the day, different activities will be going on. By night, Two70° transforms into its evening persona through the use of projection technology allowing for digital scenery to accompany entertainment options such as aerialist performers. And did I mention there also happens to be an ice bar serving up your favorite cocktails? You can hang out here all day and night!
The Music Hall will feature dance classes and improv workshops during the day, and will come alive at night as the heart of the ship’s entertainment. Live bands, musicians, DJs, and theme nights make every evening exciting. The space is home to the self-leveling billiard tables, originally found on Radiance-class ships.
On average, Quantum’s staterooms will be nine percent larger than those on the Oasis-class ships, and have a more residential “feel”. The new modular family-connected rooms will help families or groups find the perfect layout. Suite options will include three junior suite categories, a family junior suite with a full bath and a half, and loft suites located across the stern of the ship.
Studio cabins will include 12 with balconies and 16 inside cabins. All of the interior cabins on the Quantum will feature “virtual balconies” with wall-length digital projections of real-time views of what’s happening outside the ship, whether you’re at sea or in port. You can turn the projections on and off any time you wish.
Bookings on the Quantum of the Seas will be available to Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program members starting May 27, 2013 before opening to the general public on June 4. Quantum will sail out of the New York Harbor from her homeport of Cape Liberty on 7- to 12-night itineraries beginning November 2014."
Monday, April 08, 2013
The Secret Of Booking Onboard
Picture this: It’s a bright sunny day, and you are lounging by the pool sipping a frozen blue concoction while engrossed in the latest New York Times best selling novel. The strains of calypso music float through the air, a warm gentle breeze caresses your skin and you can’t help but feel you’ve found a piece of paradise. But isn’t that what cruising is all about?![]()
The only way to make your return to the “real world” the least bit palatable is to be sure you will be returning to the sea one day soon. The cruise lines know this too, and for that reason, each line has a knowledgeable Onboard Cruise Consultant to assist you in booking your next cruise, before you even disembark your current cruise. Not only will you have something to look forward to, but when you book a cruise while onboard, you’re entitled to a couple of additional benefits!
Almost every cruise line allows guests to lock in a future cruise with a reduced deposit. Not having to tie up additional money for a cruise that may be scheduled in the distant future can be quite beneficial! In addition, a booking bonus of free onboard credit is often offered, and who doesn’t want to take advantage of free onboard credit?
Onboard credit is like having “ship money” which you may use against any purchases made while you’re on the ship. This includes items purchased from any of the shops, spa and salon treatments, on photography services, laundry, shore excursions, beverages from the bar, restaurant cover charges and gratuities.
For those people that feel they are not ready to choose a particular itinerary for their next cruise vacation, they need not lose out on all the wonderful incentives. Some cruise lines allow you to make a reduced deposit on an “open passage”, or in other words, a sailing to be determined at a later date.![]()
By now you’re probably wondering why Direct Line Cruises (a travel agency) would encourage you to book your cruise directly with the cruise line. Well, here’s the best part. When you book onboard, be sure to alert the Onboard Cruise Consultant to the fact that Direct Line Cruises is your cruise travel agency. Then, when you finalize your booking with Direct Line Cruises, we will guarantee that the rate you are paying is the lowest rate available to you, (always less than or equal to the cruise line’s best available rate). We will also include travel insurance for cruises that are 5-nights or longer. Lastly, you can combine the cruise line’s offerings with many of the additional amenities we may be offering on that sail date!
Everyone knows that a cruise vacation is a great value. Not everyone knows that by booking onboard, and then having Direct Line Cruises finalize the booking, the value becomes even greater. Now you know. Aren’t you the savvy cruiser!
The only way to make your return to the “real world” the least bit palatable is to be sure you will be returning to the sea one day soon. The cruise lines know this too, and for that reason, each line has a knowledgeable Onboard Cruise Consultant to assist you in booking your next cruise, before you even disembark your current cruise. Not only will you have something to look forward to, but when you book a cruise while onboard, you’re entitled to a couple of additional benefits!
Almost every cruise line allows guests to lock in a future cruise with a reduced deposit. Not having to tie up additional money for a cruise that may be scheduled in the distant future can be quite beneficial! In addition, a booking bonus of free onboard credit is often offered, and who doesn’t want to take advantage of free onboard credit?
Onboard credit is like having “ship money” which you may use against any purchases made while you’re on the ship. This includes items purchased from any of the shops, spa and salon treatments, on photography services, laundry, shore excursions, beverages from the bar, restaurant cover charges and gratuities.
For those people that feel they are not ready to choose a particular itinerary for their next cruise vacation, they need not lose out on all the wonderful incentives. Some cruise lines allow you to make a reduced deposit on an “open passage”, or in other words, a sailing to be determined at a later date.
By now you’re probably wondering why Direct Line Cruises (a travel agency) would encourage you to book your cruise directly with the cruise line. Well, here’s the best part. When you book onboard, be sure to alert the Onboard Cruise Consultant to the fact that Direct Line Cruises is your cruise travel agency. Then, when you finalize your booking with Direct Line Cruises, we will guarantee that the rate you are paying is the lowest rate available to you, (always less than or equal to the cruise line’s best available rate). We will also include travel insurance for cruises that are 5-nights or longer. Lastly, you can combine the cruise line’s offerings with many of the additional amenities we may be offering on that sail date!
Everyone knows that a cruise vacation is a great value. Not everyone knows that by booking onboard, and then having Direct Line Cruises finalize the booking, the value becomes even greater. Now you know. Aren’t you the savvy cruiser!
Thursday, April 04, 2013
Beyond the Beautiful Beaches of Bermuda
Spring is here (or so the calendar tells us) and that means cruise ships will embark on a new season of cruising to Bermuda from northeast ports. Bermuda cruises are popular because unlike most voyages in which a ship visits a port of call for eight hours, multiple nights are more the norm for Bermuda itineraries. This gives passengers a lot of time to experience the island’s pink sand beaches and luminous turquoise waves. Not a beach lover? That’s ok, because Bermuda offers a myriad of activities for cruisers of all ages!
An afternoon spent at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) will enhance a visitors understanding of the mysteries of the ocean. This is done through![]()
interactive and exciting artifacts and exhibits that guests of all ages will enjoy. The first thing that will wow children and adults alike is the life-size replica of a 500-pound, 27-foot long squid that hangs in the entrance hall. Another thriller is the simulated seven-minute trip to the ocean floor by a modern Nautilus-X2 submarine! Kids will especially like the video-simulated shark cage that allows you to experience the charge of a Great White. Among the many other displays, the center houses an exhibit of over 12,000 sea shells, as well as investigates the mysteries surrounding the Bermuda Triangle. The BUEI is located on the outskirts of the City of Hamilton at 40 Crow Lane, Pembroke Parish. At this time admission costs are $12.50 (adults), $10.00 (seniors), $6.00 (children 6-17 years), and free for children 5 years or under.
Located 120 ft underground, Crystal Caves is one of the largest cave systems on the island. With its dramatic![]()
formations of stalactites and stalagmites, crystal-like pointed structures formed out of limestone rocks, the cave is an awesome sight! Walk the pontoon bridge across underground Cahow Lake, with a crystal clear depth 55 ft. If you look down you see stalagmites rising from the cave floor. Fantasy Cave, right next door, requires a much more challenging climb down into its bowels - just be prepared for the steep climb back to the top! The caves are located at 8 Crystal Caves Road, Hamilton Parish. Current admission prices are $20.00(adults), $8.00(children 5-12 years), and under 5 years are free. Combination ticket to both Crystal and Fantasy Caves are available for $27.00 (adults), and $10.00 (children 5-12 years).
Did you know that St. George was one of the first English towns established in North America? And like its contemporaries (Jamestown, Va., or St. John's, Newfoundland), St. George holds firm to its colonial roots. When you visit you'll pass the same Town Hall and Old Rectory that the settlers used. During the peak summer season, period![]()
actors roam the winding streets, simulating the old days -- there are even town criers and townspeople sentenced to the stocks. In 2000, the historic town of St. George became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to include the following on your itinerary: the Old State House (the oldest stone building on the island), King Square (where you'll find a replica of the pillory, stocks and dunking chair used for punishment) and the Unfinished Church. Bus 1, 3, 10 or 11 will take you to the village of St. George. Walking through the historic town is free, but you'll have to pay to enter some of its sites.
Bermuda Clayworks is the place to go if you are looking for exquisite and colorful ceramic items. It is the site of Bermuda's only full time production pottery. Over the years it has evolved into a Collective Gallery with several independent studio potters and ceramic artisans working and exhibiting onsite. The Gallery showcases vivid colored tableware, customized house plaques, salt glazed studio pottery, ceramic jewelry and sculptural and hand built artwork. The studios and gallery are open year round and are a key cultural island attraction offering a diversity of work in the gallery gift shop. The studio can be found at 7 Camber Road, Royal Naval Dockyard.
Dolphin Quest Bermuda offers year-round interactive encounters with magnificent bottlenose dolphins for adults, children and groups. Guests may touch, play and interact with dolphins in a unique environment, while also learning about the vital role human’s play in conserving their marine home.![]()
Located on the grounds of the National Museum of Bermuda incorporating the Bermuda Maritime Museum in the Royal Naval Dockyard. Dolphin Quest participants who make reservations in advance are not required to pay admission to the National Museum of Bermuda. Non-participants are responsible for the Museum's entrance fee (cash only) to the Museum. A number of different packages are available, which allows the creation of an individualized experience with dolphins. Duration and prices vary greatly.
Ships cruise to Bermuda between May and early October. They leave from the northeast ports of New York City, Boston, Baltimore, and Bayonne, NJ."
An afternoon spent at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) will enhance a visitors understanding of the mysteries of the ocean. This is done through
Located 120 ft underground, Crystal Caves is one of the largest cave systems on the island. With its dramatic
Did you know that St. George was one of the first English towns established in North America? And like its contemporaries (Jamestown, Va., or St. John's, Newfoundland), St. George holds firm to its colonial roots. When you visit you'll pass the same Town Hall and Old Rectory that the settlers used. During the peak summer season, period
Bermuda Clayworks is the place to go if you are looking for exquisite and colorful ceramic items. It is the site of Bermuda's only full time production pottery. Over the years it has evolved into a Collective Gallery with several independent studio potters and ceramic artisans working and exhibiting onsite. The Gallery showcases vivid colored tableware, customized house plaques, salt glazed studio pottery, ceramic jewelry and sculptural and hand built artwork. The studios and gallery are open year round and are a key cultural island attraction offering a diversity of work in the gallery gift shop. The studio can be found at 7 Camber Road, Royal Naval Dockyard.
Dolphin Quest Bermuda offers year-round interactive encounters with magnificent bottlenose dolphins for adults, children and groups. Guests may touch, play and interact with dolphins in a unique environment, while also learning about the vital role human’s play in conserving their marine home.
Ships cruise to Bermuda between May and early October. They leave from the northeast ports of New York City, Boston, Baltimore, and Bayonne, NJ."
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