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Posts Tagged ‘NCL’

26
Jun

NCL’s Ultimate Touring Takes Freestyle Shore Excursions to the Next Level

Posted in Cruise News  by David on June 26th, 2008
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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has launched a new class of private touring that offers more choices and convenience for guests wishing to explore ports of call however they want, whenever they want. From a private horseback riding lesson through the Tuscan countryside to chartering a catamaran to sail through the glacier-carved fjords of Alaska, these ultimate VIP tours provide options for small groups from two to 18 people. Ultimate Touring is available at all of NCL’s ports of call and can be booked pre-cruise or on board at each ship’s Shore Excursion Desk.

“These once-in-a-lifetime tours embody NCL’s Freestyle Cruising by offering guests a completely customized experience to fit their individual needs, interests and schedule,” said Colin Veitch, NCL’s president and CEO. “Now, guests sailing on any of our ships around the world have the option of choosing Ultimate Touring in all of our ports of call for a more personalized experience.”

More than 60 percent of cruisers look for personalized shore excursion options* during their sailing, so this unique tour concept allows guests to discover Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Canada, Europe, Hawai’i, Mexico and South American ports at their own pace. These once-in-a-lifetime tours include:

  • Helsinki, Finland - Archipelago Speed Boat Adventure: Guests jump on board a high speed boat and enjoy the sites on the way toward the narrow straight “Kustaanmiekka,” and then go full throttle. After getting a taste of the speed on water, guests will land ashore amidst the archipelago. Here, they will be treated to a Finish-style culinary experience and sample a taste of Finnish beer.
  • Stockholm, Sweden - Rooftop Walk: During a guided walk conducted along the roofs of this historic city, guests will be stunned by the fantastic views and fascinating stories of a local guide. Tour locations include the Old Parliament Building, the Gamla Stan quarter and the Royal Palace.
  • Livorno, Italy - 4×4 Rally Experience: From Lamborghinis to Ferraris, Italians have a passion for cars, and now NCL guests can too at the famous Rally Club of Barga. The experience begins at the pier where a 4×4 car and driver take guests for a ride of approximately one and a half hours through the Tuscan landscape. Once at the club, a professional driver gives tips on navigating the full mountain course where guests are able to drive through the obstacles.
  • Valletta, Malta - Aerial View of Maltese Islands: Taking off from the spectacular Grand Harbor on a float plane, this 60-minute tour gives guests the chance to enjoy the beautiful archipelago from 1,500 feet in the air.
  • Ketchikan, Alaska - NCL’s Freestyle Private Touring: An Alaskan’s Chef Table: A six-course tasting menu is planned to highlight Alaska’s sustainable, wild bounty. A personal chef serves a succulent meal while sharing secret methods of brining, roasting, smoking and grilling.

NCL also offers exclusive four- and nine-hour tours in a private vehicle-a car (up to two guests) or minivan (up to seven guests)-which allows complete freedom for guests to maximize their time by exploring only the places that interest them.

For a complete list of NCL’s ports, and Ultimate Touring and Shore Excursion options, please visit www.ncl.com/shorex.

NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL is building two new Third Generation Freestyle Cruising (”F3″) ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships in the market, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.

For further information on NCL Corporation, contact a travel agent at (877) 325-7522.

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20
Jun

NCL Redefines Nightlife at Sea, Reveals Hottest Clubs on its New Ships - F3

Posted in Cruise News  by David on June 20th, 2008
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NCL Logo

Chic, upscale and one-of-a-kind experiences inspired by the nightlife capitals of the world - South Beach, Ibiza, the Riviera, and, of course, Vegas

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has revealed its vision for the future of nighttime experiences at sea designed specifically for its two next generation of Freestyle Cruising ships, F3, set to debut in 2010. From Riviera chic and Ibiza style to Miami trendy and Vegas flair, the nightclubs on NCL’s new F3 ships will create never-before-seen experiences at sea and feature multiple uses for day or night, along with exclusive, adult-only venues.

F3 Balcony RoomFive of the ships’ distinct hotspots were revealed at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas at the hotel’s private Venus Pool to press, NCL’s Partnership 2.0 Advisory Board, local travel partners and consumers flown in for the event. The five venues include the industry’s first true Ice Bar; POSH Beach Club, a first of its kind beach club at sea that offers an exclusive, adults-only setting at the top of the ship; Halo, the Ü ber Bar, a private bar and lounge in the ship-within-a-ship villa complex; Bliss Ultra Lounge, NCL’s all-day entertainment and nightclub complex with four-lane bowling alley; and Spice H20, an adults-only aft pool deck experience. With these signature outlets, NCL’s nightclub experience will rival even Vegas’ energy and passion for nightlife.

“There is nothing ordinary about these ships. The F3’s are unconventionally extraordinary,” said Colin Veitch, NCL’s president and CEO. “Every experience on board will be unique and like no other. F3 won’t have massive void spaces and rooms only used for one thing. What’s particularly unique about these spaces is they will have multiple uses - sunning, bowling, dining and, of course, party playgrounds. But this is just the beginning. We have a lot more to reveal in the upcoming months so stay tuned.”

NCL’s Ice Bar - chill out and chat up. Inspired by the original ice bars and ice hotels in Scandinavia and one of only 14 ice bars in the world, the cruise industry’s first true ice bar is the ultimate chill. This frozen chamber of iced vodka is set in changing hues of blue, green and purple LED lighting that simulates the Northern Lights and creates a distinctive arctic atmosphere. The centerpiece is a giant ice cube that glows and changes colors as the hottest techno beats add to the energy of this unique nightlife attraction. In addition, NCL’s Ice Bar features a bar, walls, tables, stools, glasses and life-size sculptures all made from ice. Located on deck seven, Ice Bar will accommodate 25 guests who will be given fur coats, gloves and hats to keep them warm, since the room’s temperature will not rise above 17 degrees Fahrenheit - creating the ultimate chill. To enter, guests will pay a cover charge with a drink or drinks included.

POSH Beach Club - the best nightlife day or night. Adult guests who purchase a POSH pass for the day or the week will take a private glass elevator to enter this luxurious and exclusive outdoor entertainment complex styled with Mediterranean flare and combined with the sizzle of South Beach and the Riviera. During the day, guests can lounge on white-cushioned day beds and in private cabanas in a sun-kissed setting and cool off in the 35-foot long cascading waterfall while the POSH VIP Host and crew cater to every whim. At night, things heat up as POSH Beach Club becomes an open air night club, complete with VIP bottle service, while the DJ sets the vibe for the non-stop party. Four POSH experiences a day are delivered:

  • Early Morning (6 to 9 am) - POSH Vive
    • Guests awake to yoga classes and body-and-soul treatments in private cabanas as the sun rises and the day starts anew.
  • Morning (9 to Noon am) - POSH Rehab
    • Guests can relax and recover from a night out with Salty Dogs, Bloody Mary’s, and mimosas combined with chill out tunes.
  • Afternoon (Noon to 6 pm) - POSH Sol
    • The best nightlife in the daytime with guests lounging on day beds, enjoying funky beach music and spiked POSH snow cones while chilling under a lit waterfall.
  • Evening (8 pm to whenever) - Pure POSH
    • A pure, sizzling, sexy, nightlife experience where guests enjoy sparkling drinks and bottle service served on silver trays. Look out Vegas, the vibe here is hot… guests can dance all night under the stars or lounge on a POSH bed… truly Riviera style.

Halo, the Über Bar - heavenly and very exclusive. Garden and Courtyard villa guests have exclusive VIP access to this Über Bar located at the top of the ship on the private deck 16. This Über Bar showcases the best of the best, from the best liquors around the world to the best art featured and available for purchase with jewelry-clad servers displaying the best jewelry onboard for purchase. LED screens, framed like masterpieces and placed strategically around the room, set the mood with video montages showing the best artwork, music videos, films, iconic images of celebrities, places, fashion and more. Private gaming tables, including baccarat and blackjack, add to the sexy style in this adult-only club.

Bliss Ultra Lounge and Nightclub - back by popular demand. NCL takes its popular Bliss Ultra Lounge and Nightclub, featured on Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Pearl, to the F3 ships. Bliss features NCL’s signature bowling alley at sea as part of this all-day entertainment and nightclub complex with the feel of a decadent Las Vegas nightclub. Located on deck seven, this hotspot is perfect for all-day bowling, dancing or just hanging out. In the evening, Bliss transforms into a hip, high-energy ultra lounge with plasma screens displaying music videos, shadow dancers entertaining the crowd and non-stop music. A dance floor, private VIP areas and mood-lit bowling complete this totally unique seagoing experience. Bliss features NCL’s popular White Hot Night, the ultimate dance party set in a wonderland of white. Guests are encouraged to wear white to the party and they can purchase specially designed “white hot” shirts and feather boas. Bliss on the F3 ships feature the addition of gaming tables with dealers.

Spice H20 - what an aft-pool never dared to be. Infused with Latin and Asian influences, colors and vibes, this adults-only complex located at the back of the ship on decks 15 and 16 features a huge LED screen displaying vibrant video images from charging bulls to flamenco dancers, and synchronized swimmers to tap dancing Geishas all combined with dynamic music to create a truly unique and sensory experience. During the day, guests can soak up the sun in lounge beds around the pool while enjoying chill-out Asian tunes and Asian-inspired cuisine in Chinese to-go containers. As the sun sets, Spice H20 is transformed to an Ibiza-inspired beach club with

live entertainment and dinner served tableside or directly on beds. At night, the mood is red-hot with Latin mash-up vibes, dancing and unique entertainment atop the covered pool.

Spice H20 will serve up four spicy vibes per day:

  • Morning (8 to 11 am) - Sunny Spice
    • Spicy Bloody Mary’s and Spicitinis combine with breakfast and relaxing tunes.
  • Afternoon (11 am to 4 pm) - Aqua Spice
    • Guests enjoy the energy of the in-crowd as they sun the day away with Asian margaritas, bottle service and beers from around the world. Asian-inspired food is served in Chinese to-go containers.
  • Late afternoon/early evening (4 to 9 pm) - Sunset Spice
    • A perfect sunset every day - either live or via the big screen. Live entertainment, flowing champagne and an eclectic menu that isn’t available anywhere else on the ship. As the sun sets, it becomes a more intimate environment with Spanish guitars and red-hot dancers setting the vibe.
  • Evening (9 pm to whenever) - All Spice
    • The entertainment is non-stop throughout the evening in this outdoor amphitheater. A visually captivating aerial ballet video comes to life as the pool floor rises and aerial performers mix dance moves with acrobatic choreography inside a metallic sphere to create a mesmerizing experience. Then guests can dance the night away on the covered pool.

Guests will be able to purchase a Beyond the Velvet Rope package to gain access to the exclusive clubs.

NCL’s F3 ships will incorporate a world of new features. They represent the company’s third generation of Freestyle Cruising ships; a further evolution ofNCL ’s progressive dismantling of the structure, regimentation, and constraints of the traditional cruise experience. The 150,000-ton ships will each total 4,200 passenger berths, representing the largest ships in NCL’s fleet.

NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.

For high resolution, downloadable images, please log onto NCL’s Web site at www.f3.ncl.com. For further information on NCL Corporation, contact (877) 325-7522.

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5
Jun

NCL Makes Adjustment to Fuel Supplement

Posted in Cruise News  by David on June 5th, 2008

As oil prices have continued to rise since NCL’s earlier announcement of a fuel supplement, the company announced today an increase to its current fuel supplement. The new fuel supplement will be $11 per person per day for the first and second guests in a stateroom and $5 per person per day for any additional guests in the same stateroom, based on the guidelines below.

Individual reservations
The increased fuel supplement applies only to new individual reservations made on or after June 20, 2008.

Group reservations
The increased fuel supplement applies to any group reservation booked on or after June 20, 2008. The increased fuel supplement will also apply to group space held prior to June 20, 2008 without specific names and full confirming deposit by June 19, 2008.

NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL is building two new Third Generation Freestyle Cruising (”F3″) ships for delivery in 2010.

NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships in the market, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.

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4
Jun

Norwegian Pearl Earns Environmental Award from Port of San Francisco

Posted in Cruise News  by David on June 4th, 2008

NCL LogoNorwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced that Norwegian Pearl recently received the Port of San Francisco’s Cruise Ship Environmental Award. In 2007, Norwegian Sun was honored with the same award. The Port’s program recognizes annually those cruise ships whose on-board environmental systems help decrease air and water pollution. The three categories evaluated are air emission reduction, wastewater treatment and recycling and disposal programs for solid waste.

“It’s an honor for Norwegian Pearl  to be recognized by the Port of San Francisco for the environmental standards and practices we have in place to protect the waters on which we sail and earn our livelihood,” said Colin Veitch, NCL’s president and CEO. “We have shown our commitment to maintaining the highest level of environmental protection standards by using low-sulfur fuels, reducing air emissions, efficiently and effectively treating our wastewater and recycling and disposing properly of solid waste while in port.” The Cruise Ship Environmental Award was created by the Port of San Francisco’s Cruise Terminal Environmental Advisory Committee (CTEAC). Established in 2003, CTEAC advises the Port Commission on cruise ship-related water and air quality issues. Committee members include regulatory agencies, environmental organizations, organized labor, community groups and maritime industry representatives.NCL_Pearl_Environment_Award

“The Port of San Francisco is pleased to acknowledge the officers and crew members of Norwegian Pearl  for going above and beyond the existing regulations to preserve and protect the air and water quality of San Francisco Bay and beyond,” said Peter Dailey, maritime director for the Port of San Francisco. “We sincerely appreciate Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to safeguarding the environment.”

Norwegian Pearl  accommodates more than 2,400 guests and includes a world of innovative features and amenities, including 10 restaurants, 13 bars and lounges, two swimming pools and a casino. The ship also features an industry first - a four-lane, ten-pin bowling alley at sea and an impressive 30 foot rock climbing wall. Norwegian Pearl offers five- and nine-day sailings to the Western and Southern Caribbean, seven-day Alaska and nineteen-day Panama Canal itineraries.

NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL is building two new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.

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30
May

Five Lucky Cruise Enthusiasts Will Travel to Las Vegas for Next F3 Reveal

Posted in Cruise News  by David on May 30th, 2008

NCL Logo

Miami   

For its next big reveal of the company’s innovative F3 ships, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will whisk five lucky consumers to an exciting event in Las Vegas, Nevada on June 17, 2008 where more details of the project will be announced. The consumers will be selected at random after having registered on NCL’s F3 web site prior to May 28, 2008.”The interest in F3 is extremely high,” said Andy Stuart, executive vice president and chief product officer for NCL. “The tremendous response of initial registrations on f3.ncl.com, which launched less than a month ago, has been incredible. We decided to surprise and reward five people who were some of the first to express interest in our innovative, next generation ships and give them the opportunity to experience the next F3 reveal in person.”

The five consumers will join NCL executives, press and travel partners in Las Vegas for the big reveal on June 17. The trip includes airfare for two and a two-night stay at Caesar’s Palace and an invitation to the exclusive event.

As NCL continues to reveal aspects of the ships, f3.ncl.com registrants may be whisked away to other exciting locations for the unveiling of the next chapters.

For the latest updates on F3 or to register to receive more information, visit www.F3.ncl.com.

 

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7
May

NCL Welcomes Return of Norwegian Sky to Miami

Posted in Cruise News  by David on May 7th, 2008

Ship to sail three and four-day cruises to the Bahamas beginning mid-July 2008 with introductory kids sail free promotion

 
Pride of Aloha  

Miami   -    May 6, 2008   —   

NCL Corporation (NCL) announced today that it will reflag and rename Pride of Aloha and launch the ship as Norwegian Sky, offering three and four-day Bahamas cruises from Miami commencing this summer. The 2,002-passenger ship, built in 1999, will return to the NCL international fleet, and will be outfitted with NCL’s Freestyle 2.0 enhancements. It will be the youngest and highest quality ship sailing three and four-day cruises to the Bahamas from Miami beginning July 14, 2008. The new itineraries go on sale today with fares from $229 per person for an inside stateroom and from $329 per person for a balcony stateroom.
To welcome the ship to Miami,  NCL is offering a “Kids Sail Free Summer Vacation” promotion for reservations on Norwegian Sky made from May 6, 2008 to May 31, 2008 for sailings taking place July 14, 2008 to September 26, 2008. Children ages six months to 17 are eligible to sail free (government taxes and fees and fuel supplement apply).
NCL pioneered the first Bahamas cruise from Miami more than 41 years ago and last had a ship in the three and four-day cruise market from Miami in 2003. By reintroducing Norwegian Sky and positioning the ship in Miami sailing short cruises to the Bahamas, we are returning to our roots. At the same time, we are raising the bar by offering a modern Freestyle Cruising ship that features a variety of accommodations, including balconies and suites, a multitude of on-board amenities and a choice of six restaurants,” said Colin Veitch, ‘NCLs president and CEO. “In addition, we will outfit Norwegian Sky with the Freestyle 2.0 enhancements currently being introduced across our fleet. This, coupled with the port-intensive itineraries, offers guests seeking a quick getaway an unmatched cruise experience. There is no doubt that NCL’s three and four-day Freestyle product on the industry’s newest ship offers the highest quality and best value for money in the market.”
Norwegian Sky will depart Miami on Mondays sailing four-day Bahamas cruises with full-day stops in Grand Bahama Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas. On Fridays, the ship will sail a weekend getaway three-day Bahamas itinerary, departing Miami at 5 p.m. with all-day stops in Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, returning to Miami at 7 a.m. on Monday mornings. These sailings are scheduled through April 17, 2009.
Norwegian Sky will enter a wet dock in Miami during which a casino will be added. In addition, the ship will receive the significant product and hardware upgrades that are part of the company’s major fleetwide initiative, Freestyle 2.0. These enhancements include: a major investment in the total dining experience such as all new menus and Lobster Galore; upgrading the stateroom experience; new wide ranging on-board activities for all guests; and additional recognition, service and amenities for balcony and suite guests.

Originally launched in 1999, Norwegian Sky has more than 240 balcony staterooms, a choice of six different restaurants, 10 bars and lounges, multiple entertainment venues, two pools, extensive children’s facilities, a sports deck and a variety of spacious public rooms. Norwegian Sky had been reflagged and renamed Pride of Aloha in 2004 and sailed Hawai’i inter-island cruises until May 2008.

 

For more information or to book a sailing on Norwegian Sky call your travel professional, go to www.chtravel.com or contact us at 877-325-7522.

 NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line.

 NCL is building two new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.

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24
Apr

Norwegian Cruise Line Offers New Shore Excusions, Private Tours For 2008 Alaska Season

Posted in Cruise News  by David on April 24th, 2008

Take off in a high-speed jet boat, see dramatic views of glaciers aboard a floatplane and take in the awe-inspiring Yukon with Norwegian Cruise Line’s new 2008 Alaska shore excursions. Guests also have the opportunity to explore Alaska’s natural beauty in a more personalized setting with NCL’s Freestyle Private Touring via boat, chauffer driven hummer, rugged luxury SUV, classic floatplane or Alaskan skiff - all exclusive to NCL.The new tour options add to NCL’s extensive shore excursion program which offers guests a total of 160 Alaska excursions in 2008. Guests can depart from Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Colombia from April through September 2008 on one of three dazzling Freestyle Cruising ships - Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Star or Norwegian Sun.
“We are always in search of new ways for our guests to experience all Alaska has to offer,” said Colin Veitch,NCL ’s president and CEO. “In addition to our wide range of shore excursions, we are now offering NCL ’s exclusive Freestyle Private Tours that allow guests an up close look at the culture, wildlife and natural beauty of this destination.”

Freestyle Private Touring in Alaska

With NCL  exclusive private touring, guests can reserve a tour guide into Alaska’s wilderness and history for an unparalleled, personalized experience:

Juneau, Alaska

  • NCLs Freestyle Private Touring: Wild Coast Exploration by Private Boat: (NCL exclusive) A private, expedition-style catamaran is the perfect vehicle for exploring this region’s ice-hewn fjords and rugged coasts. The captain and expedition naturalist will assist in designing a unique cruise adventure.
  • NCL’s Freestyle Private Touring: Chauffeur-Driven Hummer: (NCL exclusive) Experience Juneau on your own terms and on your own schedule. A la carte options include private Glacier View Sea Kayaking, a visit to the Shrine of St. Therese, patroness of Alaska, and an exclusive Historic Gold Mining and Panning tour to Last Chance Basin.

Ketchikan, Alaska

  • NCL’s Freestyle Private Touring: Alaskan Skiff: (NCL exclusive) Get closer to the beauty of Alaska aboard a private skiff. Fish some of the world’s most abundant waters, scout for wildlife, or hike the ancient rainforest.
  • NCL’s Freestyle Private Touring: Rugged Luxury SUV: (NCL exclusive) This completely customizable tour allows guests to see Alaska in the comfort of a luxury SUV with a private tour guide. 
  • NCLs Freestyle Private Touring: Classic Floatplane: ( NCL exclusive) Breathtaking views of southeast Alaska are seen via this floatplane tour. An expert local pilot takes guests beyond the ordinary to remote areas seldom seen by visitors. During the flight guests enjoy enlightening two-way communication with the pilot while flying over Misty Fjords National Monument, 2.3 million acres of natural, untouched landscape.
  • NCL’s Freestyle Private Touring: An Alaskan Chef’s Table: (NCL exclusive) Discover the unique flavors, culture and people of Alaska during this exclusive epicurean experience. A personal chef serves a five-course tasting menu, choreographed to highlight Alaska’s sustainable, wild bounty. Sample hot and cold smoked salmon, spot prawns, king and dungeness crab, saffron-infused bouillabaisse, halibut, salmon and a luscious dessert.

Breathtaking Shore Excursions

NCL’s new shore excursions offer perfect options for seasoned sightseers, funseeking families, and bold explorers:

Juneau, Alaska

  • Rainforest Garden & City Attractions: Drive through Juneau’s historic downtown district and past the State Capitol Building. Tour the exquisite atrium at Glacier Gardens. Travel through the rainforest, enjoying views of the Mendenhall wetlands, Gastineau Channel and Admiralty Island.

Ketchikan, Alaska

  • City Highlights, Totems & Creek Street: Learn the history and culture of Ketchikan traveling on a festive trolley through its quaint downtown and past boat harbors, City Park and Ketchikan Creek. Then stop to photograph the majestic totem poles and explore Creek Street, the historical “Red Light” district.
  • The Bering Sea - Crab Fisherman’s Tour: Once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience commercial fishing firsthand from the deck of a seasoned vessel while skilled fishermen share stories from the treacherous Bering Sea.
  • Back Country Jet Boat & Totem Adventure: (NCL exclusive) Cruise through the island-studded waters of Clover Pass and Naha Bay aboard a high-speed, fully enclosed jet boat. Have a glimpse of the homes of rural Alaskans practicing the pioneer lifestyle, and visit Potlach Park to see a recreated native Alaskan village and visit the Alaska Totem Trading museum and store.

Prince Rupert, British Columbia

  • Canada’s Wilderness via Floatplane: Fly over lush rainforest, deep valleys, rugged mountain fjords, cascading waterfalls and spectacular glaciers for dramatic views of Canada’s natural scenery. Spot wildlife such as eagles, mountain goats, seals, porpoises, and whales.
  • Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Viewing: Enter the pristine wilderness of the Khutzeymateen Valley, home to one of the highest concentrations of grizzly bears in North America. Enjoy a safe, pleasurable and unique wilderness experience without intruding on the bear’s natural habitat.

Skagway, Alaska

  • Golden Glassblowing Experience: This unique hands-on opportunity includes a private orientation tour of the spectacular Northern Show Garden and a visit to the Hot Shop to learn the ancient art of working with molten glass and create an original keepsake.
  • Suspension Bridge, White Pass Railway and Scenic Klondike Highway: From an antique parlor car, gaze in awe at the majestic scenery and hear the stories and history of the Klondike Gold Rush.
  • White Pass Railway & Alpine Snow Shoe Hike:This trip combines a ride on the Historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway with a wilderness trek in the stunning alpine zone of the upper reaches of the Tormented Valley.
  • Garden Glassworks & White Pass Railway: At the Jewell Gardens, hear the tales of this gold rush town while viewing magnificent delphiniums, nasturtiums and begonias. At Garden City Glassworks Theater, watch as a talented glass artist demonstrates the ancient art form. Experience an unforgettable journey aboard the world-famous narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.
  • Experience the Yukon & Suspension Bridge: Climb the South Klondike Highway to the top of the White Pass 3,292 feet above sea level, take in the awe-inspiring Yukon Suspension Bridge, explore Caribou Crossing, see Tormented Valley and Pitchfork Falls, and visit the new Skagway Sculpture Park
  • Evening Gold Rush & Salmon Bake: Take a trip to the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp, located on the outskirts of Skagway, where meals are prepared over an open wood fire using recipes handed down by the women who cooked in the camps and goldfields of 1898. Afterwards, gather at the Liarsville Hippodrome for a performance by a cast of sourdoughs and dancehall girls.

Victoria, British Columbia

  • Gourmet Picnic & Fireworks at Butchart Gardens: Guests will travel from Odgen Point through the scenic countryside and rolling farmlands en route to Butchart Gardens, a Vancouver Island jewel, where they will feast on a gourmet picnic and explore the gardens with fireworks overhead.
  • Butchart Gardens, Wine & Chocolate: Indulge in a romantic evening of wine and chocolate truffles in a truly magical setting at the Church & State Winery.
  • Twilight Snorkeling Adventure: The diversity of marine life in Victoria’s emerald waters allows for an exhilarating snorkeling experience.

All Alaska shore excursions are currently available for pre-reservation. Guests can reserve their tours by logging on to www.ncl.com. As many tours fill up quickly, guests are encouraged to make selections as early as possible.

NCL is building two new Third Generation Freestyle Cruising (”F3″) ships for delivery in 2010.

NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships in the market, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

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22
Apr

Norwegian Cruise Line rolls out Freestyle 2.0 dining

Posted in Cruise News  by Rimsky on April 22nd, 2008

Miami March 12/08
NCL Corporation (NCL) announced today it will begin the roll out of Freestyle 2.0 on Norwegian Jade’s first Mediterranean cruise which starts on March 30, 2008. Freestyle 2.0 is the company’s fleet-wide initiative to further improve the guest experience. The enhancements include a major investment in the total dining experience; upgrading the stateroom experience; new wide ranging on-board activities for guests of all ages; and additional recognition, service and amenities for balcony, suite and villa guests.

The initiative has been driven by quantitative and qualitative feedback from both guests and travel partners and enabled by the $1 billion infusion from Apollo Management, LP in NCL and Star Cruises continued commitment and vision.

“It is critical for NCL to retain today’s loyal customer, while still attracting the next generation of travelers,” said Colin Veitch, NCL’s president and CEO. “We believe the features and benefits of Freestyle 2.0 will further position NCL as a Freestyle Cruising innovator and the preferred brand for today’s cruise vacationer.”

Guests on Norwegian Jade’s March 30 12-day Classic Mediterranean cruise will be the first to experience the Freestyle 2.0 initiatives. Additional ships will launch Freestyle 2.0 within the following weeks, with fleet-wide roll out implemented by June 1, 2008. More specific details of the enhancements include:

Freestyle Dining:
A “bubbly welcome” - a welcome aboard glass of bubbly for everyone;
New menus with expanded choices in every restaurant;
Lobster Galore - Lobster in the main restaurant twice per cruise and in every specialty restaurant every night of the cruise;
Steak & Eggs Breakfast Feast in Teppanyaki restaurant with unlimited Bloody Mary’s and mimosas;
Lavazza coffee in all Java Cafes and top suites;
A signature specialty dish in every restaurant, including the following:
Le Bistro: Côte de Boeuf, a 32-ounce premium gold angus rib eye steak; Plateau de Fruits de Mar, a cold seafood platter including mussels, lobster tail, shrimp and raw oysters on the half shell; and Cardinal of the Seas, a braised Maine lobster;
Italian: Osso Buco, Lobster Ravioli;
Cagney’s: Maine Lobster, 32oz Porterhouse, Surf & Turf, Alaskan King Crab Legs;
Tex-Mex: Jumbo Tiger Prawns;
Asian: Szechuan Stir-fried Maine Lobster;
Action Station: Chocolate Fountains;
The action station restaurants will also receive plasma menu boards, a world-class salad bar, soft serve ice cream machines, and improved service and nighttime ambiance with tablecloths and candlelight;
A new and expanded room service menu.
Stateroom Experience:
Elemis bathroom amenities;
Memory foam mattress toppers;
Pillow upgrade and addition of Euro pillows to all beds;
Upgraded linens;
All beds will receive a top sheet.
Expanded mini-bar options and item customization option;
Upgraded room service menus.
Balcony and Mini Suites, all of the above plus:
Bathrobes;
Customized Fruit Menu;
Fresh-baked cookie at turn down on last night of cruise;
Escort to stateroom on embarkation day;
Special color keycard;
Priority Restaurant Reservation and Reception hotlines.
Suites and Villas, all of the above plus:
NCL branded bedding collection;
Upgraded mattress, linens and feather pillows.
Upgraded sofa bed;
MP3 Player connections;
Pillow Menu;
Plush Bathrobes;
Customized Fruit Menu;
Customized Canapé Menu;
Turndown cookie last night of cruise;
Personal escort to stateroom on embarkation;
Bottle (or Half Bottle depending on category of suite) of Moet Chandon White Star Champagne upon embarkation;
Priority Restaurant Reservation and Reception Hotlines;
Special color keycard for ship-wide recognition;
VIP Breakfast & Lunch in Cagney’s;
Private Breakfast & Lunch with action station set-up in Courtyard for Villa Guests;
Dedicated Butler in Courtyard.
On-board activities:
An enhanced educational, entertainment and lifestyle program - NCL “U” - offering a range of new classes in:
Humor hosted by Second City;
Food, wine and spirits;
Destination education;
Digital technology.
Library transformed into a coffee shop atmosphere with:
Implementation of honor system for book borrowing;
Complimentary coffee and tea;
Plasma screens (muted) broadcasting news.
Enhanced nightlife with new party experiences, such as:
NCL’s White Hot Party;
NCL’s Monte Carlo night.
An enhanced Pool Deck experience:
Entertainment taken upscale;
Relaxing ambient music;
Drink flags on all deck chairs;
Pool of indulgence - Evian sprits, cold towels, etc.;
Quiet zones and times.
Exciting sports deck programming;
X-box game consoles in video arcades;
Expanded and increased flexibility of Kids Crew hours;
Enhanced Teen Centers to include:
X-box game consoles;
Nintendo Wii;
Table games such as foosball, billiards and air hockey.
NCL’s Freestyle 2.0 marketing campaign will span all consumer, travel partner and guest touch points via national print, radio and online advertising. In addition, NCL’s guests and travel partners will see Freestyle 2.0 materials encompassing all cruise line correspondence, online at www.ncl.com with dedicated Freestyle 2.0 content pages, as well as on board and in-cabin elements.

NCL Corporation Ltd. Is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line.

NCL is building two new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400-passenger Norwegian Gem.

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