Royal Caribbean International Swine Flu Statement April 27, 2009

We’ve been closely monitoring all developments regarding the Swine Flu, to help ensure the health and well-being of our guests and crew members.Health authorities from a variety of nations are investigating the situation and we remain keenly attuned to their progress. We maintain close working relationships with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and our industry association, and we’re working in close coordination with them.It is important to note that health authorities have not raised concerns regarding the ports of call we visit in Mexico. None of our sailings have been altered and none are scheduled to be.Our ships visiting Mexico are taking pro-active measures, such as: Placing a notice in the daily, onboard newsletter to provide our guests with basic information regarding this matter. Placing a letter, along with a fact sheet from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in each guest stateroom Providing hand sanitizers throughout the ship. And, conducting enhanced sanitizing of all high-touch areas. We’re also asking guests to follow the advice of medical experts regarding the best ways to help prevent flu and other illnesses: Washing hands thoroughly with soap and hot water - often. Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Putting used tissues in waste baskets. If tissues are not available, coughing or sneezing into upper sleeves, not one’s hands. Like our guests, we take all health matters seriously and we’ll continue to closely follow all developments regarding the Swine Flu. Additional information regarding Swine Flu is available at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website: www.cdc.gov

Serenade Of The Seas To Sail Year-Round From San Juan

Miami -  Royal Caribbean International today unveiled its 2010-11 year-round Caribbean season, comprising of 243 sailings aboard five of the world’s most innovative cruise ships. Twenty-four distinct itineraries, ranging from five to nine nights, will include visits to 25 captivating ports of call and offer virtually unlimited choices - onboard and on-shore - for family and adventurous vacationers. Serenade of the Seas will expand from seasonal to year-round service at San Juan, Puerto Rico, while Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas will continue regular sailings from Port Canaveral and Miami, respectively. Together, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas will offer vacationers a choice of a Saturday or Sunday departure for an unparalleled cruise experience from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. General bookings for Royal Caribbean’s 2010-11 year-round Caribbean cruises are now open. Additional seasonal Caribbean deployments will be announced in the near future.

Royal Caribbean shore excursions also will offer guests an expansive variety of optional diversions to complement their days in port. Guests can snorkel in Barbados on Tiami Five Star Catamaran & Turtles; visit ancient Mayan ruins from Cozumel on Tulum Mayan Ruins Express; zipline through the trees of Jamaica’s Laughland River Gorge on the Chukka Canopy Experience; delve into the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungles and beaches at Costa Maya on ATV Jungle & Beach Adventure; or simply take in the sun on balmy, breezy Orient Beach during a call at St. Maarten on St. Martin Beach Rendezvous. On itineraries featuring a call at Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s private beach paradise on Haiti’s northern coast, guests will be able to race each other on the Dragon’s Tail Coaster, an alpine coaster to open in summer 2009 that winds down the adjoining mountainside.

Having sailed seasonally from San Juan since 2003, Serenade of the Seas  will begin year-round service in April 2010 from the Puerto Rican city-port with two alternating seven-night Southern Caribbean itineraries through December 2010. No port of call is repeated on the two itineraries, presenting vacationers the option to combine two consecutive cruises into a grand 14-night Southern Caribbean odyssey. One itinerary will call at Curacao, Aruba, Dominica and St. Thomas, while the other at Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Maarten and St. Croix.

From May 2010, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas will continue alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries departing respectively on Saturdays and Sundays. On January 30, 2011, Liberty of the Seas will begin alternating a six-night Western Caribbean, departing every other Sunday, and an eight-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary, departing every other Saturday. The two ships feature the cruise line’s exclusive onboard amenities, including the FlowRider surf simulator, the H2O Zone water park, a boxing ring, cantilevered whirlpools, an ice-skating rink, and the four-bedroom, four-bath Presidential Family Suite. With eight restaurants and more than 15 bars and lounges, these Freedom-class ships offer guests more ways to enjoy a memorable Caribbean cruise vacation.

From Port Everglades, vacationers can choose a Saturday or Sunday departure aboard one of the world’s largest and most revolutionary cruise ships in the industry, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. In 2010, Allure of the Seas will cruise its inaugural season, mirroring Oasis of the Seas alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean roundtrip itineraries. Oasis of the Seas also will sail two special holiday cruises, a five-night voyage departing December 18, calling at Labadee and Falmouth, Jamaica; and a nine-night voyage departing December 30, calling at Labadee, Falmouth, St. Maarten and St. Thomas.

Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, debuting in November 2009 and 2010 respectively, will feature Royal Caribbean’s new neighborhood concept, seven themed areas throughout the ship that offer different experiences for guests to choose, based on their personal styles, preferences or moods. Inspired by seaside entertainment esplanades, Boardwalk will engage the entire family - whether young or young at heart - with eateries, retail outlets, carnival games, and an original, handcrafted carousel - a first at sea. Nine decks above, the first zip-line at sea will whisk guests from end to end on a thrilling aerial adventure. Boardwalk will lead to the AquaTheater at the stern of the ship, where the amphitheater - another first at sea - will offer a guest pool area by day and a performance venue at night, featuring dramatic acrobatics, synchronized swimming, water ballet, professional high-diving, and elaborate fountain shows synchronized to music and lights.

Onboard every Royal Caribbean ship, guests enjoy the cruise line’s award-winning Broadway-style musical revues from Royal Caribbean Productions, acclaimed Adventure Ocean kids and teen programming, world-class gaming in the Casino Royale, and Royal Caribbean’s renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service from every staff and crew member.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 20 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand.

Effective Feb 26, 2009, guests who purchase NCL’s BookSafe Travel Protection Plan for any NCL cruise departing on or after 1st May, 2009, are eligible for reimbursement of any cancellation fees if an insured guest loses their job as long as the person has been an active employee at the same company for at least one year. “In this challenging economic environment, we are offering a safety net for guests who want to book a cruise, but are uncertain about what the future holds in terms of their employment,” said Andy Stuart, NCL’s executive vice president of global sales and passenger services. “Our BookSafe plan enables guests to book with confidence knowing that they will receive a full refund if they need to cancel their cruise because of job loss.”

AMA Waterways, long associated with luxury European river cruising, in September this year will sail the Mekong River on “La Marguerite”. The seven-night cruises to Vietnam and Cambodia are packaged with pre- and post-cruise land stays for a 15-day package starting at $3,999 per person, including international air from LAX and SFO.
The 92 passenger La Marguerite is presently under construction but will offer luxury accomodation in 46 Staterooms ranging in size from 226SF to 443SF suites with balconies. Amenities will satisfy all the requirements of a fine hotel
The package will include air on Cathay Pacific to Hanoi with a 3 night stay and included sightseeing. From there guest will fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia for a two night hotel stay including tours to Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. On the seventh day guests will embark La Marguerite on Tanle Sap Lake with numerous excursions planned for the duration of the cruise. On the final night at Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), there will be a farewell cocktail party and dinner. Guests disembark for a city tour and one night in a hotel.

To date, NCL has revealed that the Epic will have a nightclub scene that “rivals the experiences of Las Vegas, Ibiza, the Riviera and South Beach.” Staterooms will have innovative curved walls.
Staterooms will open for booking later this month.

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Royal Caribbean’s Mariner Of The Seas Arrives In Los Angeles
Cruise Line Introduces West Coast’s Largest And Most Innovative Cruise Ship

Miami -  The largest ship ever to offer cruise vacations from the West Coast arrived into Los Angeles today. At 1,020 feet long and 142,000 gross registered tons, Royal Caribbean International’s Mariner of the Seas will sail year-round from the Port of Los Angeles offering a seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary with ports of call at Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan, Mexico. Mariner of the Seas is one of the cruise line’s Voyager class of ships, which revolutionized the cruise industry by introducing innovative amenities such the iconic rock-wall, an ice-skating rink, a full size basketball and sports court, an inline skating track and Royal Caribbean’s signature Royal Promenade, a boulevard of shops, restaurants, bars and lounges that runs nearly the length of the ship.

“We are excited to be introducing one of the industry’s most innovative ships to the West Coast  giving more vacationers the opportunity to conveniently experience the Royal Caribbean difference,” said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “From the very beginning, we have been guided by the principles of ‘Why Not’ - why not ice-skate across the equator or why not rock climb 200 miles out at sea? With Mariner of the Seas’s arrival in Los Angeles, we invite West Coast travelers to the Nation of Why Not and ask them ‘why not go out and see, do and be more than they had ever thought possible on a vacation’.”

Mariner of the Seas offers guests the chance to relax in the adults-only Solarium, swim in the two swimming pools or six whirlpools, or sunbathe in the main pool area, which served as the canvas for pop art sensation Romero Britto. Britto transformed the 25,000 square-foot pool deck into an outdoor art exhibit replete with whimsical figures and playful patterns. This one-of-a-kind pool deck also features a side gallery chronicling this project from initial inspiration to final construction. Offering an experience that caters to active travelers or multigenerational family vacations, Mariner of the Seas also features a nine-hole miniature golf course, interactive golf simulator, the full-service Mariner of the Seas Day Spa and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

In the evening, guests can enjoy one of the 16 bars and themed lounges and seven restaurants, including a 1950s-style Johnny Rockets Diner and Royal Caribbean’s signature specialty restaurants; Chops Grille steakhouse and Portofino Italian restaurant. Guests also can enjoy a myriad of entertainment options from top-rated Broadway-style productions in the Savoy Theatre to world class gaming in the Casino Royale.

Throughout, all guests will experience the line’s hallmark Gold Anchor Service, which helps make each guest vacation a unique and unforgettable experience with friendly and engaging service from the staff and crew.

For younger guests, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program offers scheduled activities throughout the day that enriches and entertains kids. Teens have their own dedicated onboard areas such as Fuel, the teen disco; The Living Room, a place where they can relax and hang out with their friends; and The Back Deck, an outdoor lounge.

Mariner of the Seas will sail a seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary, round-trip from Los Angeles with ports of call at Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 20 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand.

Today, NCL – one of the most award-winning cruise lines on the planet – announces the name of our new, innovative F3 ship. Introducing Norwegian Epic. She’s the next generation of Freestyle Cruising and offers an experience at sea like never before. What a perfect opportunity to give your clients access to the future of cruising.

•  Norwegian Epic is the largest Freestyle Cruising ship ever built with room for more than 4,200 guests     •  Inaugural sailings begin summer 2010     •  Exclusively dedicated to year-round sailings from Miami to the Caribbean through April 2011             - Western Caribbean includes Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatán, Bay Islands,         Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico             - Eastern Caribbean includes Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas,         U.S. Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas     •  Group block reservations for travel partners open mid-March 2009     •  On sale later this spring

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection announces an incredible 2 for 1 Air Offer for all of their Europe, Russia, and Egypt River Cruises departing in 2009. For any bookings made to these destinations between January 15 and February 27, 2009, Uniworld will offer each travel companion a FREE Air Ticket for International economy travel to Europe, Russia, and Egypt when the first traveler pays Uniworld’s 2009 published brochure rates. The only item that the companion traveler is required to pay is government taxes and fees of up to $200. Air is available from most major U.S. gateway cities, as well as from the following Canadian gateways: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary.To take advantage of Uniworld’s great offer, simply book and deposit on or before February 27 2009. And if booked on or before January 31, 2009, they can combine this with Uniworld’s Early Booking Discount with another savings of up to $600 per couple!According to Uniworld’s President, Guy Young, “Uniworld offers a wonderful, all-inclusive, value-packed river cruise package, and as such, we wanted to assist our customers with their air travel arrangements as well, especially during these challenging economic times.  Our 2 for 1 Air Offer should make it possible for anyone who dreams of having a first-rate vacation experience in Europe, Russia, and Egypt a reality.”About Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection Los Angeles-based Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, the premier river cruise company, was recently named to Travel+Leisure’s World’s Best Top 10 Small Cruise Lines, Condé Nast Traveler’s 2009 Gold List and their Reader’s Choice Awards for World’s Top 10 Small Cruise Lines. Uniworld features intimate, elegant boutique, hotel-style cruise ships with an average capacity of 134 guests, an award-winning staff with a ratio of one staff member for every three guests, world-class cuisine, and expertly planned itineraries with custom-blended shore excursions. The company offers over 500 departures on more than 40 itineraries sailing on 12 rivers in over 20 countries throughout Europe, Egypt, China and Russia. For more information, contact your Preferred Travel Professional. Call  1-877-325-7522,http://www.cruisingdeals4u.com/River-Cruise/Uniworld/Uniworld-Europe-2-for-1-Airfare-USD.html

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) today announced its 2010-2011 winter deployment which includes a continued year-round commitment to Europe with Norwegian Jade sailing from Barcelona and the addition of Norwegian Jewel, joining Norwegian Gem, sailing from New York, giving guests the opportunity to choose from among NCL’s newest ships, purpose-built for Freestyle Cruising.

NCL will continue its popular sailings to the Caribbean from New Orleans on the newly refurbished Norwegian Spirit and to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles on Norwegian Star. In addition, NCL has also released its 2010-2011 repositioning voyages which include the Panama Canal, Pacific Coastal and Transatlantic. These cruises go on sale January 22, 2009.

“Having Norwegian Jade homeported in Barcelona for the winter gives guests another option for exploring the many different ports in Europe, during a time of the year when it is less crowded and the weather is mild,” said Kevin Sheehan, NCL’s president and CEO. “By bringing Norwegian Jewel to New York, along with our newest ship, Norwegian Gem, we are giving guests more choice and more ways to escape the cold Northeast winters without the hassle of air travel.”

In Europe year-round, the 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade will sail alternating 12- and nine-day cruises from its homeport of Barcelona, Spain. The 12-day Eastern Mediterranean sailings include the following ports of call: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Izmir), Turkey; an overnight in Alexandria, Egypt; and Valletta, Malta. The nine-day Canary Islands & Morocco sailings include stops in Casablanca and Agadir, Morocco; Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Canary Islands: Funchal, Madeira; and Granada (Málaga), Spain. Since there is no port repetition between the two itineraries, they can be easily combined to create a port-rich 21-day European tour.

The 2,376-passenger Norwegian Jewel homeports for the first time in New York, along with the 2,380-passenger Norwegian Gem; both ships will sail a series of 10-day Eastern Caribbean cruises with stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; St. John’s, Antigua; Philipsburg, St. Maarten and Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and seven-day Bahamas & Florida cruises with stops in Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida; Great Stirrup Cay (NCL’s private island) and Nassau, Bahamas.

Norwegian Spirit, which underwent a multi-million dollar refurbishment in 2008, returns to New Orleans sailing a series of 24 seven-day Exotic Western Caribbean cruises. Ports of call include: Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Santo Tomás de Castilla, Guatemala; and Belize City, Belize. Norwegian Star sails back to Los Angeles for a series of 24 seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises with stops in Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Repositioning cruises in the 2010-2011 deployment include:

• On April 10 (New York to Venice) and October 30 (Venice to New York), 2010, Norwegian Gem sails a 14-day Transatlantic with stops in Ponta Delgada, Azores; Lisbon, Portugal; Seville (Cádiz) and Granada (Málaga), Spain.
• On April 10, 2010, Norwegian Pearl will sail a 14-day Panama Canal from Miami to Los Angeles. Ports of call include: Cartagena, Columbia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Huatulco, Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and a daylight transit through the Panama Canal.
• On April 11, 2010, Norwegian Jewel sails a 15-day Transatlantic from Miami to London (Dover), England. Ports of call include: Ponta Delgada, Azores; Lisbon Portugal; Vigo and La Coruña, Spain; Waterford, Ireland; and Guernsey, Channel Islands.
• On April 11, 2010, Norwegian Spirit embarks on a 12-day Caribbean Escape from New Orleans to Boston. Ports of call include: Costa Maya, Mexico; Santo Tomás de Castilla, Guatemala; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstand, Curacao; and Hamilton, Bermuda.
• On April 24, 2010, Norwegian Pearl  sails from Los Angeles to Vancouver with stops in San Francisco, California; Astoria, Oregon; Victoria and Campbell River, British Columbia.
• On May 1, 2010, Norwegian Star repositions on a seven-day cruise from Los Angeles to Vancouver, British Columbia with stops in Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska through the Inside Passage.
• On September 8, 2010, Norwegian Jewel sails from London (Dover), England, to New York. Ports of call include: Lerwick, Shetland Islands; Thorshavn, Faroe Islands; Reykjavik, Iceland; St. John, Newfoundland; and Halifax, Nova Scotia.
• On October 2, 2010, Norwegian Star sails on a seven-day British Colombia and U.S. West Coast cruise from Vancouver to Los Angeles. Ports of call include: Campbell River and Victoria, British Columbia; Astoria, Oregon; and San Francisco, California.
• On October 10, 2010, Norwegian Dawn departs from New York to Miami on a 12-day Caribbean Escape with stops in Samana, Dominican Republic; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras; and Belize City, Belize.
• On October 23, 2010, Norwegian Spirit  sails a 15-day Caribbean Escape from Boston to New Orleans. Ports of call include: Samaná, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Bridgetown, Barbados; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico.
• On September 19, 2010, Norwegian Pearl  sails a five-day Pacific Coastal from Vancouver to Los Angeles with stops in Astoria, Oregon and San Francisco, California.
• Norwegian Star  will sail four 14-day Panama Canal sailings from Miami to Los Angeles and Los Angeles to Miami on November 20 and December 4, 2010 and January 1 and January 15, 2011. Ports of call include: Cartagena, Columbia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Huatulco, Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and a daylight transit through the Panama Canal.

To book one of these new itineraries, guests should contact us at 877 325-7522. Further information can be found online at www.chtravel.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is the innovator in cruise travel with a 42-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising which has revolutionized the industry by allowing guests more freedom and flexibility.

Today, NCL has the youngest fleet in the industry with 11 purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea.

NCL is presently building a new third generation Freestyle Cruising ship known as F3, for delivery in 2010.

Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest and most successful cruise line in the world, carrying more passengers than any other. 

But “Today’s Carnival” is a vastly different company than the one started from humble beginnings nearly four decades ago. Carnival was launched with a converted trans-Atlantic ocean liner and a dream of entrepreneur Ted Arison, a pioneer in the modern-day cruise industry who set out to realize his vision of making a vacation experience once reserved for the very rich accessible to the average person.

The rest, as they say, is history.

THROUGH THE YEARS . . .

1972 – Maiden voyage of Carnival’s first ship, the TSS Mardi Gras, which runs aground on sandbar outside the Port of Miami

1975 – Carnival purchases Empress of Britain, enters service as the TSS Carnivale

1978 – The Festivale, formerly the S.A. Vaal, undergoes $30 million refurbishment, begins service for Carnival as the largest and fastest vessel sailing from Miami to the Caribbean (the ship has since been retired from the fleet)

1982 – Debut of the Tropicale, the first new cruise ship the cruise industry has seen in many years; ship marks the beginning of an industry-wide multi-billion-dollar shipbuilding boom (the ship has since been retired from the fleet)

1984 – Carnival becomes first cruise line to advertise on network television with the premiere of new advertising campaign starring company spokesperson Kathie Lee Gifford (then Johnson)

1985 – Debut of 46,052-ton Holiday

1986 – Launch of 47,262-ton Jubilee (the ship has since been retired from the fleet)

1987 – The 47,262-ton Celebration enters service (ship to leave fleet in April 2008)

Carnival earns distinction as “Most Popular Cruise Line in the World,” carrying more passengers than any other

Carnival Cruise Lines undertakes its initial public offering on Wall Street, raising approximately $400 million to fuel future expansion; entity later becomes Carnival Corporation & plc, a multi-line worldwide cruise conglomerate

1990 – The 70,367-ton Carnival Fantasy – the first and namesake vessel in the highly successful “Fantasy-class” — enters service as first new ship ever placed on three- and four-day Bahamas cruise program from Miami. Eventually, Carnival would construct eight “Fantasy-class” vessels, the most cruise ships in a single class.

1991 – Launch of 70,367-ton Carnival Ecstasy

1993 – Carnival introduces its third 70,367-ton SuperLiner, Carnival Sensation

1994 – Debut of 70,367-ton Carnival Fascination

Carnival’s parent company renamed Carnival Corporation to distinguish between it and its flagship brand, Carnival Cruise Lines. Company is later renamed Carnival Corporation & plc following the combination with P&O Princess Cruises, creating the world’s largest cruise vacation group by far.

1995 – 70,367-ton Carnival Imagination enters service

1996 – Carnival’s launches sixth “Fantasy-class” vessel, the SuperLiner Carnival Inspiration

Carnival debuts the first passenger vessel to exceed 100,000 tons, the 101,353-ton Carnival Destiny, at the time the world’s largest cruise ship

1998 – Carnival Cruise Lines introduces seventh “Fantasy-class” vessel, the Carnival Elation, the first new cruise ship deployed on the West Coast 

The eighth and last in the “Fantasy-class” series, the Carnival Paradise, enters service

1999 – Debut of the 102,000-ton Carnival Triumph, Carnival’s second “Destiny-class” vessel

2000 – A third “Destiny-class” vessel, the 102,000-ton Carnival Victory, is launched.

2001 – Carnival introduces a new class of vessel with the launch of the 88,500-ton Carnival Spirit, the first new “Fun Ship” ever positioned in the Alaska and Hawaii markets

2002 – A second “Spirit-class” vessel, the Carnival Pride, is launched

Carnival’s third “Spirit-class” ship, Carnival Legend, enters service

Debut of the 110,000-ton Carnival Conquest, at the time the largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed. 

2003- Second 110,000-ton “Conquest-class” ship, the Carnival Glory, begins year-round seven-day cruises from Port Canaveral, Fla., July 19.

2004 – Carnival Miracle, the fourth in Carnival’s “Spirit-class,” begins a series of 12 voyages from Jacksonville, Fla. – the first “Fun Ship” sailings from that port – Feb. 27, 2004.

A third 110,000-ton “Conquest-class” ship, the Carnival Valor, begins year-round seven-day service from Miami Dec. 19, 2004, becoming the largest “Fun Ship” ever based at that port.

2005 – A fourth 110,000-ton “Conquest-class” vessel, Carnival Liberty, debuts July 20, 2005, operating Carnival’s first-ever Mediterranean cruises.

2007 - Carnival Freedom, the line’s fifth 110,000-ton vessel, debuts in Europe, operating by 12-day voyages to the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and Turkey.

2008 - The 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor debuted in July 13, 2008, operating Carnival’s first Northern Europe cruise program.  The ship launches year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises in March 2009.

2009 - Carnival Dream, a 130,000-ton vessel to be the largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed - is scheduled to enter service Sept. 21, 2009, beginning a new class of vessel for the line.

2011 - A second 130,000-ton SuperLiner, Carnival Magic, is slated to debut in June 2011.

 

On May 2, 2009 Uniworld Boutique River Cruises will host its First Annual President’s River Cruise onboard the new, ultra-luxurious River Beatrice, sailing along the Enchanting Danube. Guy Young, President of Uniworld, will be hosting this eight day event sailing from Passau, Germany to Budapest, Hungary. “This trip is going to be extra special in so many ways.  In addition to all of the wonderful inclusions guests receive when traveling with Uniworld, we are going to be offering several one-of-a-kind exclusive inclusions only available during this cruise,” states Young. “This is going to be an unforgettable experience for all who travel with us.  I look forward to introducing the beautiful new River Beatrice and sharing this experience with our valued travelers,” adds Young.Space is limited, so book early. In addition, if travelers book and pay-in-full by January 31, 2009, they can save up to $600 per stateroom. Plus at the time of booking, one complimentary stateroom category upgrade will be given, based on availability, at a value up to $2,800 per couple, excluding owner’s suite. The Enchanting Danube River Cruise only prices start from $2,799 per person. Highlights include: 7 nights onboard the NEW, ultra-luxurious River Beatrice, in a riverview stateroom with extra comforts including plush robes and slippers, L’Occitane body products special travel set, an exclusive gift from Valrhona Chocolate, and fresh fruit delivered daily All meals prepared fresh daily using the finest ingredients brought onboard from the itinerary’s ports of call Complimentary fine wine, beer, and soft drinks with dinner, bottled water in the staterooms, and 24-hour specialty coffees and teas President’s Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Receptions and Dinners  Fully-hosted tours with English-speaking local guides in Passau, Salzburg, Melk, Durnstein, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest Exclusive excursions fully hosted by local, English-speaking guides and onboard events only available during the President’s Cruise including: Cocktail Reception at Artstetten Castle with Princess Anita von Hohenberg, royal descendant of the Habsburg lineage, plus a guided tour of the Castle’s Museum and Crypt A visit to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna to observe a morning training Mozart and Strauss Concert at Palais Auersperg in Vienna Dinner at Griechenbeisl – one of the oldest restaurants in Vienna where such noteworthy people as Beethoven, Schubert, Wagner, Strauss, Brahms, and Mark Twain once dined Onboard Viennese Waltz lesson Special onboard local entertainment, insightful lectures, and interactive demonstrations An all English-speaking, world-class attentive staff with a ratio of one staff member for every three guests Al fresco evening dining on the sun deck (weather permitting) Complimentary use of bicycles All transfers on arrival and departure days About Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection Los Angeles-based Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, the premier river cruise company, was named to Travel+Leisure’s World’s Best Top 10 Small Cruise Lines, Condé Nast Traveler’s 2008 and 2009 Gold List and their Reader’s Choice Awards for World’s Top 10 Small Cruise Lines. Uniworld features intimate, elegant boutique, hotel-style cruise ships with an average capacity of 134 guests, an award-winning staff with a ratio of one staff member for every three guests, world-class cuisine, and expertly planned itineraries with custom-blended shore excursions. The company offers over 500 departures on more than 40 itineraries sailing on 12 rivers in over 20 countries throughout Europe, Egypt, China and Russia. Phone 1 877 325-7522 today for a quote or booking

MIAMI, January 9, 2008 - Royal Caribbean International guests can Rumba, Samba, Cha-Cha, Waltz or Swing into the spotlight in “Invitation to Dance,” the cruise line’s newest production show featuring guests as stars aboard Explorer of the Seas. Created in conjunction with Louis van Amstel, Emmy-nominated choreographer for ABC-TV’s “Dancing with the Stars,” and Cheryl Burke, two-time winner on the show, “Invitation to Dance” transports the world of professional ballroom dancing to the high seas.

Guests sailing on Explorer of the Seas have the opportunity to compete for the honor of best ballroom dancers at sea. With the guidance of professional dancers, stylists and make-up artists, guests may just realize their true calling while on vacation.

“Invitation to Dance’ is another example of Royal Caribbean’s dynamic and innovative approach to offering engaging entertainment and activities for our guests,” said Peter Compton, vice president, Entertainment and Guest Activities, Royal Caribbean International. “With all the excitement surrounding competitive dancing on television, we are now challenging our guests to live out a dream while enjoying their cruise vacation.”

Chosen during an evening of ballroom dancing at the beginning of each cruise, four couples are selected to participate in the “Invitation to Dance” production show later that week. The finalists work with Royal Caribbean’s professional ballroom couples to learn slick dance moves, attend costume fittings, and receive star treatment in preparation for their Royal Caribbean stage debut. Showtime is an exciting evening in the spotlight for the dancing couples as they join the Royal Caribbean cast on stage and compete against each other for the applause and support of their fellow guests.

Explorer of the Seas sails year-round from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, NJ, on fivenight Bermuda getaway cruises and nine-night Caribbean vacations.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand through its cruisetour division.

Royal Caribbean International guests can Rumba, Samba, Cha-Cha, Waltz or Swing into the spotlight in “Invitation to Dance,” the cruise line’s newest production show featuring guests as the stars aboard Explorer of the Seas. “Invitation to Dance” transports the world of professional ballroom dancing to the high seas with a little help from guests.

Shanghai - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. today announced it is opening two new offices in China, in the cities of Beijing and Guangzhou.

The new offices, which will open in the coming weeks, will be the second and third the company operates in China, joining its Shanghai facility, which opened in July 2007. The new offices will highlight the growing importance of the China marketplace and its role in the company’s international growth strategy.

The new offices will widen the company’s reach into more regions of China. They will be located in the central commercial districts of both cities and in close proximity to many travel agencies. This will allow the company to better serve a broader spectrum of local customers and the local travel agent communities, with faster, more seamless and more customized services.

“Our first season sailing from Asia was a great success, and our new offices will help us extend our reach to many more customers and travel agents throughout China,” said Michael Bayley, senior vice president, International, for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “Having a second consecutive season in Asia, and eventually, a year-round deployment there, reflects our commitment to the China market and the importance of the entire region to our global growth.”

The new offices will support three of the company’s brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises. Royal Caribbean International’s Legend of the Seas will sail out of Shanghai, beginning in February 2009, departing from the new Shanghai cruise terminal. Similarly, Azamara Cruises’ Azamara Quest will call in Chinese cities such as Canton and Shanghai, beginning in January 2009, during its first season of sailings in Asia.

Royal Caribbean International was recently named the “Best Luxury Cruise Operator” in Travel China Weekly’s  Industry Awards 2008, after its first year of operations in China. The awards recognize the best in the tourism industry and acknowledge their contributions to China’s tourism industry.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisieres de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and six under construction. It also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will play a key role at “Seatrade Med 2008″ and will confirm its increasing commitment to Europe and the Mediterranean.

With an unprecedented 22 ships sailing in Europe in 2009, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will offer cruisers more choices than ever before.

“The international markets show the greatest growth potential, with Europe and the Mediterranean representing the ideal center,” said Michael Bayley, senior vice president, International, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Bayley made his comments during his opening address at the Seatrade Med convention, being held in Venice, Italy, this week. “Extending our deployments and our seasons in Europe and the Mediterranean reflects our commitment to, and the importance of, the region as an integral part of our international growth strategy. We see strong development opportunities in Europe and the Mediterranean as a destination, as well as a source market, and we are making the necessary investments to further grow our market share in these key regions.”

Royal Caribbean International has announced plans to deploy a record eight ships to the region for summer and fall of 2009. Vacationers can select from four- to 14-nights itineraries aboard some of the world’s most innovative cruise ships: Independence of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Freedom-class ship; two Voyager-class ships, Navigator of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas; as well as Brilliance of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Legend of the Seas, Splendour of the Seas, and Vision of the Seas. Totaling 70 distinct itineraries and 87 ports of call in 32 countries, Royal Caribbean International will offer vacationers unprecedented choices throughout the Mediterranean Sea, Northern and Western Europe and a variety of transatlantic sailings.

In May 2008, Royal Caribbean International’s Brilliance of the Seas began sailing year-round in the Mediterranean, a first for the brand. Departing from Barcelona, Spain, the ship offers an array of cruise options and destinations.

With its largest European deployment ever slated, in 2009, Celebrity Cruises will be offering guests the opportunity to take the ideal cruise on a premium brand. For the first time in the line’s history, five ships will visit the region in a single European season. They will include the brand’s two newest ships, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox. Joining them will be Celebrity Constellation, built in 2002; Celebrity Summit, launched in 2001; and Celebrity Century, which underwent a $55 million revitalization in 2006. The line will visit 76 ports in 29 countries, five of which are new to Celebrity Cruises. Celebrity’s ships will sail from six different homeports, and spend overnight port calls in eight different ports.

Azamara Cruises will offer deluxe cruise experiences onboard both their ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, in the Mediterranean between April and December 2009. No other deluxe brand offers the number of ports that Azamara Cruises’ ships will visit next year, nor matches the breadth of distinct itineraries. Azamara’s seven- to 15-night Europe itineraries will visit 91 ports in 36 countries, and depart from five different homeports. Overnight calls will be offered in seven ports and late-night departures (10 p.m. or after) will be offered in 10 ports, allowing guests to capture more of the flavor of each locale’s nightlife and a more immersive destination experience.

Additionally, all six Pullmantur Cruises’ ships and CDF Croisieres de France’s Bleu de France - both Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. brands - will operate in the Mediterranean in 2009. 

“With 22 ships deployed in Europe, 20 of which are in the Med, in 2009, we are clearly demonstrating our commitment to the region,” Bayley added. “We are not only dedicating more ships, but some of our newest and the most innovative ships to Europe and the Mediterranean. We are also focusing on enhanced products and onboard options that will further increase the satisfaction of our growing number of international guests. These factors increase our confidence that the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. brands will continue to grow their market share in Europe and the Mediterranean in 2009.” Participation in Seatrade Med 2008: In addition to Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will also be represented at Seatrade Med by:

Harri Kulovaara, executive vice president, Maritime, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., speaking on A Grand Design

Kevin Douglas, associate vice president, Newbuild and Revitalization, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., speaking on Cruise Shipbuilding and Refurbishment

John Tercek, vice president, Commercial & New Business Development, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., speaking on Ports and Itineraries

Jamie Sweeting, vice president, Environmental Stewardship, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., moderating the session: The Green Agenda

Lina Mazzucco, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Italy General Manager, will participate in the Cruise Agent Training Day.Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisieres de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and six under construction. It also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America.

NCL continues sailing to Bermuda with Norwegian Dawn sailing seven-day cruises with three full days in Bermuda and the newly renovated Norwegian Spirit exclusively sailing seven-day cruises from Boston.

Pride of America’s successful deployment in Hawai`i, sailing seven-day Hawai’i inter-island cruises round-trip from Honolulu, Oahu, has been extended through January 2012.

In 2010-2011, NCL will sail the following itineraries:

• Europe
  • Norwegian Gem
    • Seven-day Greek Isles, round-trip from Venice, Italy
      • Ports of call include: Split, Croatia; Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos and Iraklion (Crete), Greece.
      • In 2010, Norwegian Gem sails April 24; May 8 and 22; June 5 and 19; July 23, 17 and 31; August 14 and 28; September 11 and 25; and October 9 and 23.
    • Seven-day Adriatic, Greece and Turkey, round-trip from Venice, Italy
      • Ports of call include: Dubrovnik, Croatia; Nafplion and Athens (Piraeus), Greece; and Ephesus (Izmir), Turkey.
      • 2010 sail dates are: May 1, 15 and 29; June 12 and 26; July 10 and 24; August 7 and 21; September 4 and 18; and October 2 and 16.
  • Norwegian Jade
    • Seven-day Western Mediterranean, round-trip from Barcelona, Spain
      • Ports of call include: Monte Carlo, Monaco; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples, Italy; and Palma, Majorca, Spain.
      • 2010 sail dates are: April 18 and 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30; June 6, 13, 20 and 27; July 4, 11, 18 and 25; August 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29; September 5, 12, 19 and 26; October 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31; and November 7 and 14.
  • Norwegian Jewel
    • 12-day Baltic Capitals, round-trip from London (Dover), England
      • Ports of call include: Copenhagen, Denmark; Berlin (Warnemünde), Germany; Tallinn, Estoria; St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland and Stockholm (Nynashamn), Sweden.
      • 2010 sail dates are: April 29; May 11 and 23; June 4, 16 and 28; July 10 and 22; and August 3, 15 and 27.
• Alaska
  • Norwegian Pearl
    • Seven-day Glacier Bay, round-trip from Seattle, Washington through the Inside Passage
      • Ports of call include: Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska; and Victoria, British Columbia.
      • 2010 sail dates are: May 9, 16, 23 and 30; June 6, 13, 20 and 27; July 4, 11, 18 and 25; August 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; and September 5.
  • Norwegian Sun
    • Seven-day Alaska Northbound from Vancouver, British Columbia to Whittier, Alaska through the Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier
      • Ports of call include: Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point, Alaska.
      • 2010 sail dates are: May 2, 16 and 30; June 13 and 27; July 11 and 25; August 8 and 22; and September 5.
    • Seven-day Alaska Southbound from Whittier, Alaska to Vancouver, British Columbia through the Inside Passage and College Fjord
      • Ports of call include: Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska.
      • 2010 sail dates are: May 9 and 23; June 6 and 20; July 4 and 18; August 1, 15 and 29; and September 12.
  • Norwegian Star
    • Seven-day Sawyer Glacier, round-trip from Seattle, Washington through the Inside Passage
      • Ports of call include: Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, Alaska; and Prince Rupert, British Columbia.
      • 2010 sail dates are: May 15, 22 and 29; June 5, 12, 19 and 26; July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31; August 7, 14, 21 and 28; and September 4, 11, and 19.
• Bermuda
  • Norwegian Spirit
    • Seven-day Bermuda, round-trip from Boston, Massachusetts
      • Port of call: King’s Wharf, Bermuda.
      • 2010 sail dates are: April 23 and 30; May 7, 14, 21 and 28; June 4, 11, 18 and 25; July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30; August 6, 13, 20 and 27; and September 3, 10 and 17.
  • Norwegian Dawn
    • Seven-day Bermuda, round-trip from New York, New York
      • Port of call: King’s Wharf, Bermuda
      • 2010 sail dates: April 11, 18 and 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30; June 6, 13, 20 and 27; July 4, 11, 18 and 25; August 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; and September 5.
• Hawai’i
  • Pride of America
    • Seven-day Hawai’i Inter-Island, round-trip form Honolulu, Oahu
      • Ports of call include: Kahului, Maui; Hilo and Kona, Hawai’i and Nawiliwili, Kauai with an evening sail by Kilauea Volcano and an afternoon cruise of the Napali Coast.
      • Pride of America sails every Saturday through January 2012.

To book one of these new itineraries, guests should contact us at 877-325-7522.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is the innovator in cruise travel with a 42-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising which has revolutionized the industry by allowing guests more freedom and flexibility.

Today, NCL has the youngest fleet in the industry with 11 purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea.

NCL is presently building a new third generation Freestyle Cruising project known as F3, for delivery in 2010.

 

 

 

Miami - December 5, 2008 - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. today announced the suspension of its fuel supplement for Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, anywhere in the world.

The decision reflects the recently sustained lower price of fuel.

Effective Monday, December 8, guests making new bookings for sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, will not be charged the fuel supplement.

Guests already booked on sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, will receive a refund of any fuel supplement paid, as follows:

Guests with existing bookings for sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, and who are now paid in full, will have the supplement automatically refunded to them in the form of an onboard credit during their sailing.

Guests with existing bookings for sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, and who are not yet paid in full, will have the supplement automatically removed from their outstanding balance. The company reserves the right to reinstate fuel supplement charges if the price of West Texas Intermediate fuel exceeded $65 per barrel, on the quarterly milestone dates mentioned in the company’s October 24, 2008, press release.The company announced on October 24, 2008, that no fuel supplement would be charged for new bookings made on or after November 10, 2008, for sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2010, unless there is an upturn in fuel prices. Today’s announcement does not affect those previous terms.Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisieres de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and six under construction. It also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America.

ONE MONTH TO ARRIVAL OF ‘THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SHIP OF THE WORLD’

 

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (NOVEMBER 24, 2008) – The final countdown for MSC Fantasia has officially started.

 

There are less than 30 days to go to the christening ceremony of MSC Cruises‘ flagship in Naples on December 18. The most beautiful ship in the world will be christened by Sophia Loren, the icon of Italian style in the world, who has already christened five other elegant MSC Cruises’ ships.

 

MSC Fantasia at 133,500 gross registered tons, measures 1,092 feet long, 196 feet high and 124 feet wide. It can cruise at a maximum speed of 23 knots, carrying 3,274 guests (double occupancy) in its 1,637 cabins.

 

The 290,000 square feet of common areas include:

-         5 swimming pools – including “I Tropici,” with a retractable roof

-         12 whirlpool baths and 1 Acqua Park with 150 fountains

-         5 restaurants –including “La Cantina Toscana” – with the finest Italian wines;  “El Sombrero Tex Mex” to enjoy the taste of tacos and margaritas; and even a very elegant “Belle époque” style a la carte French restaurant.

 

Guests will have the opportunity to choose among 19 bars, such as the Manhattan Jazz Bar, with a perfect New York style, and the Sports Bar, where guests can support their team together with friends.

 

MSC AUREA SPA’s 17,384 square feet will ensure total relaxation of body and mind.

 

And fun is also guaranteed onboard, from “L’Avanguardia” theater with 1,650 seats, the casino, the disco and to the virtual area with a Formula 1 simulator and a 4D cinema. There is a children’s playroom dedicated to a North Pole theme.

 

For the first time onboard, guests will find the new MSC Yacht Club: 99 suites, between 247 and 570 square feet, furnished as a luxurious yacht; a large lounge with a breathtaking view of the sea; a Conciergerie with Swarovski crystal stairs; and other reserved spaces. Personal butlers will provide the most exclusive services such as taking care of the luggage, booking excursions, in-suite dining, choice of cigars, liquors and champagne.

 

Elegance and class are the elements which distinguish all the new spaces on the flagship, which, as always, have been designed by the studio De Jorio Design International. The most important contemporary design styles dominate all the ship’s spaces and reveal the great attention given to detail, and the quality of the materials.

 

MSC Fantasia is also an entirely ecological ship with environmentally friendly paint, modern technology for the treatment of black and grey waters and a system of energy saving in cabins and common areas.