Cruise Traveler Magazine’s 7 Best Cruise Trends for 2010
span style="font-size: x-small;"7 Best Cruise Trends For 2010 br /Cruise Traveler Magazine's 7 Best Cruise Trends for 2010 /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"What's in store at sea and on shore..../spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"by Raye amp; Marty Trencher, Editors, Cruise Traveler Magazine/spanbr /br /div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_C5EU8WrpACw/SzSqiRRMY_I/AAAAAAAAAA0/J06RTm0ptvI/s1600-h/Raye_and+_Marty_Trencher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"img border="0" ps="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_C5EU8WrpACw/SzSqiRRMY_I/AAAAAAAAAA0/J06RTm0ptvI/s320/Raye_and+_Marty_Trencher.jpg" //abr //divspan style="font-size: x-small;"Our pick for the number one cruise trend for 2010 is "The Best Cruise Deals". Even as the economy starts to recover, cruise prices will first rise, then fall, and once again represent a great bargain. For some destinations cruise lines will offer some of the cheapest deals we have seen in years./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"But that's not all. With dozen's of new ships entering the market, the cruise lines have to fill those berths. And boy have they built them to attract not only the most price conscience traveler, but the most adventure bound as well. The new ships are bigger, better and offer more high energy activities, such as flowriders, water coasters, zip lines and pay-as-you-go amenities. These new ships are priced some 15 to 20% higher than their smaller cousins in the fleet. Someone has to pay for the near billion dollar cost for some of these ships./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Our predication: Cruise lines will continue to face stiff competition in 2010, especially in an economy in recovery. While they are slowly raising prices, We think the cruise lines will continue to respond to the will of the marketplace, where many consumers will hold out until they see the prices they want and then offer special cruise deals, onboard spending credits, reduced or free airfare, (even Disney Cruise Line is offering a kids cruise free promotion), stateroom upgrades and last minute cruise discounts of 50-80% off the listed brochure fares in order to keep their ships cruising full. We will see Wave Season cruise deals ( bookings made from January to March ), offer low prices for Alaska and Mexico, as fourth quarter 2009 sales for these destinations was flat. More and more options to spend your money onboard represent additional per capita income for the cruise line and raise the actual price of cruising for the consumer. So, that $499 cruise for a week in the Caribbean, may actually cost over a $1000, when you add up all the sightseeing, dining upcharges and other costs not associated with the cruise fare itself. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"So, here we go.. the 7 Best Cruise Trends For 2010. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strong1. The Best Cruise Deals/strong/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"A bad economy makes for some very good deals: Super cruise deals, lowest prices in years. But don't book them directly with the cruise line. You can get "bonus" savings from many travel agents. Not only a better price, but some agents throw in shipboard credits, pre-paid gratuities and other incentives to get you to book. Shipboard credits, where available from the cruise line, are house credits that are placed on your stateroom's account for you to use during your cruise vacation. You can use the credit towards merchandise, lounges and in some, but not all cases, for Spa Treatments or Shore Excursions. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Contact your credit card company. They may offer additional savings, shipboard credits or frequent flyer miles when you pay for your cruise in full with that credit card./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Sign up for e-mail deal alerts that let you know where the great deals are. Some services will e-mail you when cruise fares drop for the cruise you want. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Tip: After you've booked your cruise keep checking the prices. If the price drop, contact your travel agent, changes are they can you can save you more money./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise lines are offering deeper discounts earlier, with great deals rates for spring and some offer kids to sail for free. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"You can find deals priced at less than $45 per person per day including all your meals and most activities -- but watch out.. you will pay an "up charge" for specialty restaurants, bar drinks, spa treatments and shore excursions. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"And best of all. No more fuel surcharges. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br /nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strong2. Bigger is Better?/strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"In 2009 Carnival Splendor, at 3006 guests was Carnival Cruise line's newest behemoth. The new Celebrity Solstice, welcomes 2,850 guests, and Royal Caribbean's new Independence of the Seas, with 3,634 guests are some of 2009's biggest cruise ships. Now comes 2010.../spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"The Carnival Dream at 3,646 guests includes 19,000 square feet of space dedicated to children and families, an expansive WaterWorks aqua park offering the longest water slide at sea, new entertainment choices such as a comedy club and outdoor laser shows set to high-energy rock music, a half-mile wrap around promenade and whirlpools that extend over the ship’s sides, and Ocean Plaza, a stunning indoor/outdoor café and live entertainment venue. Other features include innovative accommodation options such as deluxe ocean view staterooms with two-bathrooms, some of which feature five berths and hold particular appeal for families, as well as the Fun Hub, a comprehensive intranet portal and the cruise industry’s first shipboard social network. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongComing in 2010/strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Royal Caribbean introduces ( December 2009 ) the 5,400-passenger Oasis of the Seas. Yes, over 5000 guests! Onboard features include the huge Central Park, the Boardwalk, a shopping and dining promenade, featuring an antique carousel; a zip line, and the Aqua Theater, a pool area and amphitheater at the ship's bow that will feature a high-diving spectacular and aqua-acrobatics. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/royal_caribbean_oasis_of_the_seas_cruise_review.htm"Oasis of the Seas Cruise Review/a. Read about all the stateroom, entertainment and dining options. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"The Disney Dream is the majestic third ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Boasting 14 towering decks, a ship length of 1,115 feet and a maximum width of 125 feet, the 128,000-ton vessel includes 1,250 staterooms and has the capacity to accommodate up to 4,000 guests./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Building on the classic style of the line's previous 2 ships, the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder, the Disney Dream is a valiant vessel distinguished for its classic early 20th-century design—which harkens back to the golden age of cruising—and state-of-the-art technology. As can be expected from Disney, the cruise liner was specially designed with families in mind, combining sleek style and convenient facilities with splashes of magic and cruise-industry firsts—like the splashtacular AquaDuck, the very first water coaster at sea./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Norwegian EPIC, NCL’s incredible new ship looks to reinvent cruising, by having guests experience an array of exciting, new entertainment options and nightlife, including the first true ice bar at sea./spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Norwegian Epic will have some of the most innovative and flexible accommodations ever – from new studios with a hip urban feel and exclusive access to The Living Room and private Villas. Add 20 different dining options and you’ll see why we say this is going to be Freestyle Cruising on a truly grand scale./spanbr /br /More New Ships in 2010br /br /Celebrity: Celebrity Eclipse - Aprilbr /Cunard: Queen Elizabeth - Octoberbr /Holland America Line: Nieuw Amsterdam - Julybr /Royal Caribbean International: Allure of the Seas - Decemberspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strong3. Better Food and Dining Options./strong /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"But at what cost? Are the cruise lines nickel-and-dining you?/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"For 2010 you've got more dining choices. Specialty coffee cafe's, wine bars, gourmet pastries and upscale specialty French, Asian, Italian and Chop House restaurants -- all at additional cost. Up charges range from a low of $5.00 to as high as $30.00 or more. You can still dine in the main dining room for no extra charge, included choices from a healthy-calorie counting menu. Now there are even more./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise lines continue to offer flexible dining options -- dining when and where you want, rather than being assigned a specific table at a 6:30 or 8:30pm dining hour. Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America and Princess offer flexible evening dining options. In 2009 Royal Caribbean introduces "My Time Dining" a similar concept. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"With the basic price of your cruise at its lowest level in years, cruise lines will focus more on "per capita" spending onboard to make up any shortfall in cruise fare revenue. So, be sure to add up all the costs to get a true picture of what your cruise will cost./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strong4. Close to home cruising, best for your budget./strong/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"There will be fewer people cruising to exotic destinations like Australia, New Zealand, South America or Asia. Even Europe and the Mediterranean will see less passengers. The cost of airfare to get there is too expensive and can cost you more than the cruise these days. The cruise lines are scrambling to reposition their ships closer to home, so Bermuda, the Caribbean and the Mexican Riviera are your best bets./spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"And if time is short and you can't take seven-day off, consider a cruise from 3 to 5 days. In 2010 you will find dozens of short cruise options at starting prices under $299 per person./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"There are three, four- and five-night voyages that sail from Miami and offer both Eastern and Western Caribbean ports-of-call. On the West Coast, Royal Caribbean offers four- and five-night Mexican Riviera cruises. You can even take a five-night Bermuda cruise from New York. You can now sail from Baltimore on a year-round basis. So, save the cost of airfare and drive to where the ship departs. The high cost of air travel is a compelling reason to target cruise ships that sail within a day’s drive or less of your home. Cruising close to home has never been easier. /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"From the East Coast, you can sail from; Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Ft. Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Miami, New York City, Norfolk, Philadelphia, Port Canaveral, Tampa. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"From the West Coast; Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle./spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"From the Gulf Coast; Galveston, Houston, Mobile, New Orleans. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"All total, some 22 close-to-home departures in the United States and Canada. With so many ships in these close-in markets, in 2009 the competition for your cruise dollar will be fierce. And that means a great deal for you./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strong5. So what if you are well-off, and can afford it?/strong/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Despite the economy, luxury cruising is not dead. There are new luxury ships on the horizon. In June of 2009 we welcomed the Seabourn Odyssey, with one of the biggest spas on a luxury ship, larger staterooms, in-cabin dining and more. In November, Silversea Cruises introduces Silver Spirit. Silver Spirit will feature a supper club and an Asian-themed restaurant. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strong6. What's Old is New!/strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Older cruise ships are no longer sent to the scrap yard. They are reborn. After weeks in dry dock, they emerge with new balconies, larger kids' facilities and luxury spas. Some get children's water parks, 300-foot waterslides and adults-only pools. Others get brand new shopping arcades and upgraded in-cabin bedding, furniture, carpeting and bathroom amenities. Many ships have redesigned lounges, public rooms and the addition of pizzerias, coffee and wine bars and ice-cream parlors./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"strong7. Last-Minute Deals Are Dirt Cheap!/strong/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Be patient. It pays./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Are you holding out for the last minute so you can snag that great deal? You're not alone. More people are flexible as to when then can travel and want to take advantage of close-to-home cruising (saving the high cost of airfare)/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Hint; Wait until 30-45 days or so before the cruise you want for the best deals. Cruise lines are cutting prices for that unsold inventory to all time lows. The cruise industry, reeling from the economic crisis and a sharp drop-off in passengers, is offering some incredible last minute cruise deals. We've even seen a 3 days cruise for $99! /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"strongPractical Advice On How To Save Money On Your Next Cruise/strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Plan ahead and save big. Get the best value for your money. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"1. Reserve Your Cruise Now/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"At least 3 - 6 months prior to sailing. You get the best choice of locations and stateroom availability and the sooner you book, the better the discount./spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"2. If You Can, Pay For It In Advance/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Save as much as 15%. Some cruise lines give an extra discount if you pay in full at least six months in advance of your sailing date./spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"3. Reserve Your Cruise At The Last Minute/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Depending upon when you want to go, last minute bookings can save you money! Especially if you are not particular about what cabin and where on the ship you are staying./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"4. Cruise In The Off Season/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruises are more expensive in high season, so if you can go some other time you will save even more. Alaska cruises are cheaper in May and September. Europe and Mediterranean cruises in September and October. Caribbean cruises in September, October and January./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"5. Do A Transatlantic, Transpacific Or Repositioning Cruise/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Want to sail from Europe or the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, or from Alaska to Hawaii, or Mexico? You will cruise for about half the cost of the same number of days of a single destination cruise. You'll get more lazy days at sea and fewer port stops./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"6. Cruise On The Ship's Very First Journey/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"If you take an inaugural cruise on a new ship, you may save money, but don't expect everything to be ship shape./spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"7. Go With A Group/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Groups that travel together save more. Go with or put together your own group from your church, club, work, school or plan a once in a lifetime a family reunion. And if you can get 15 or more people to go, you could go for free!/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"8. Don't Care About The View... Why Not An Inside Stateroom?/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"If you think of a stateroom as only a place for sleeping and dressing, and a view isn't necessary, you can save money with an inside stateroom./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"9. If Four's Not A Crowd, Put The Family In One Stateroom/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Third or fourth guests go at a substantial discount, and kids sometimes go free. If you take 4 adults, everyone shares in the savings. However, it can be very crowded. And just one bathroom!/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"10. Reserve Without A Stateroom Assignment/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Even if the stateroom category that you want is sold out, you can reserve your place on the ship. The cruise line guarantees to provide you a stateroom in the category you want or one higher at the time they assign you a stateroom. However, you don't have a choice where it will be. You may save money and get a free upgrade if at the time they assign you a stateroom there are no more, in the category you reserved./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"11. Join The Club/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise lines give a special discounts or free upgrades to past passengers. Carnival give you a break even you have sailed on Holland America, Windstar, Princess, Costa, or Cunard, as they own them all./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"12. Ask And You Shall Receive/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Keep a close eye on weekly newspaper ads and newsletters for promotional specials. You may qualify for a two-for-one offer, kids free, or 50 percent off promotion. And, if you already have put a deposit down or paid for your cruise, do hesitate to ask for the lower fare if it applies to the stateroom type and category you reserved./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"13. On A Honeymoon? Or Celebrating A Special Occasion?/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary or a family reunion on the cruise. On some ships you may qualify for an extra discount./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"14. Look For Added Value/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Some sailings offer free hotel nights before or after your cruise, sightseeing tours, or the cruise line will offer shipboard credits you can use in the shops./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"15. Free Upgrades/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Some lines offer an upgrade in cabin category if you are a repeat passenger, on a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or your friends or family reserved more staterooms./spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"16. If You Like It So Much, Stay Onboard Another Week./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"If you arrange to stay on the ship for a second cruise, you could sail the second week at a discounted rate./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"17. Age Has It's Advantages/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Over 55? Some cruise lines have discounts for you. And, if a senior is traveling with other people in the stateroom that are under 55, the discount may apply to both fares./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"18. Airfare Prices Vary/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Sometimes the airfare offered by the cruise line is cheaper; sometimes not. Plan as far ahead as possible to get the lowest priced airline tickets. Comparison shop the ship's offer and what the airlines are offering./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"19. Consider A Pre Or Post Cruise Hotel Package/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Hotel stays can be arranged at the same time you book your cruise. As with airfares, compare the ship's price with what the hotel would charge you direct./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"20. Every Cruise Line And Cruise Ship Is Different/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"The most important thing you can do is research all the ships and cruises that go to your chosen destination. Compare itineraries, accommodations, shipboard activities, shore tours and fares. By comparing, you will find a cruise that offers what you want at a price that fits your budget.. Be sure when you compare fares that you know whether taxes and port charges are included or not. /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"More Things To Consider.../spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"A. Become Cyber Savvy/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Check online for the latest discounts and special offerings on ships and sailings. Visit the cruise line's own web sites and several travel agents online to get the best service and price. But remember, don't reserve a cruise just because of price./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"B. Choose The Cruise That Best Fits Your Needs And Desires/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"So many people have bought the cheapest thing around, only to be disappointed once onboard. As you know by then it's too late to change your mind./spandiv class="blogger-post-footer"img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9902695-4943212100349308079?l=cruisenews.blogspot.com' alt='' //divCruise Direct Online Provides Tips and Resources to Help First-Time Cruisers Navigate The Web In Search Of Cruise Deals And Destinations
December 24th, 2009 | Comments Off | Posted in Carnival Cruise Lines, Cruise News, cruise destinations, cruise ports-of-call, cruise ships
span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise Direct Online Provides Tips and Resources to Help First-Time Cruisers Navigate The Web In Search Of Cruise Deals And Destinations./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"The cruise industry "Wave Season" is in full swing. It's at time when more than 7 million web browsers will be looking for cruise tips, advice, destination information and where to find the best cruise deals. It's the busiest time of the year for booking cruises. Many of whom will find most Travel Agents swamped with phone calls and a backlog of e-mails to answer. So, Cruise Direct Online has created a 16 page online guide for first-time cruisers to research cruise destinations and find some of the best cruise deals on the web without having to navigate through hundred's of web sites to find what they want. "All About Cruising - Ask The Experts" Guide takes visitors to 16 of the world's most desirable destinations, provides background information on each locale, detailed city guides to get around, and what cruise lines go there. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/cruise_marketplace/rayeandmartysmall2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"img border="0" ps="true" src="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/cruise_marketplace/rayeandmartysmall2.jpg" //abr //divspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise ships visit nearly 300 ports of call, in some of the world's most breathtaking locations. From the rugged beauty of Alaska and Canada/New England to the charm of Europe. There's the lush landscapes of Mexico, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. Also, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and South America, plus the guide gives you even more amazing exotic spots to choose from. Visiors just pick their dream destination, find out more about it and get ready to set sail! Visitors can use the handy Cruise Calendar to see all of the ships they can sail on, and sailing dates. Visitors can ask cruise experts Raye amp; Marty Trencher questions about cruising, such as "Where can I Go?, What's It Like? Who's It For?" or comment about the articles, content, and features found in the guide. In addition, there are handy links to travel-provider web sites to find the perfect cruise and the best deals. So, if travelers are cruising for the first time, and need added guidance to safely navigate the web for travel information, Cruise Direct Online is worth a visit. They call themselves 'The Cruise Traveler's Ultimate Search Engine" and with this new information, it's easy to see why. Cruise DIrect Online is celebrating it's tenth year on the web in 2010./spandiv class="blogger-post-footer"img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9902695-3520858488586445420?l=cruisenews.blogspot.com' alt='' //div
Cruise Direct Online Joins The Travelocity Partner Network, Adds New Online Cruise Booking Capability Offers Instant Savings and Availability. 12,000 Cruises Online Inventory And Guest’s Own Personal Trip Planning Features, Added to Service Concept
December 19th, 2009 | Comments Off | Posted in alaska cruises, cruise direct online, online cruise reservations
span style="font-size: x-small;"strongCruise Direct Online today announced it has enhanced it's web site, partnering with Travelocity to bring enhanced direct online cruise booking capability. Guests can choose to book online or have a Cruise Travel Advisor contact them about their choices. Plus Cruise Direct Online offers personalized trip planning features for their guest to help in vacation planning./strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongCruise Direct Online's New Online Cruise Booking Capability Offers Instant Savings and Availability. /strong/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strong12,000 Cruises Online Inventory And Guest's Own Personal Trip Planning Features, Added To Service Concept./strong /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"December 18, 2009 -- Just in time for the industry's "Wave Season", the January to March 2010 period when travel agents do most of their yearly cruise bookings, Cruise Direct Online today announced it has enhanced it's a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/"Cruise Traveler's Ultimate Search Engine/a® branded web site with an updated state-of-art direct online cruise booking capability. Guests can choose to book online or have a Cruise Travel Advisor contact them about their choices. Plus, get personalized trip planning features to help in vacation planning. Cruise Direct Online has combined instant pricing, availability and personal service into one program they call "Sails and Service"(sm). /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strongA SEA OF CHOICES/strong /spanbr /br /div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/cruise_marketplace/cruise1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"img border="0" ps="true" src="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/cruise_marketplace/cruise1.gif" //abr //divspan style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;""Travelers love cruises, and the more choices you can offer, the better", commented Marty Trencher, Managing Director of Cruise Direct Online. "Our guests can browse, select and book online cruises to the eastern and western Caribbean, the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, the British Isles, the Baltic, the fjords of Norway, South America, the Mediterranean, Polynesia, the Indian Ocean and even world cruises" he added./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise Direct Online's guests can now select from over 12,000 sailings for 2010-2011. Guests may choose from more than 80 ports of embarkation, including 24 close-to-home within driving distance of most residents of the US and Canada. Popular destinations include Alaska, Mexico, Europe, Bermuda, the Caribbean, The Far East, Africa, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, Canada and South America. /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise Direct Online's offerings include cruises from 2 days to 105 days, on more than 96 cruise ships representing the top cruise line brands - Azamara Club Cruises, /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard Line, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Uniworld Cruises, and Windstar. Luxury, themed and specialty cruises are also available. The a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/lastminutecruisesonline.htm"Last Minute Cruise Deals/a section offering great rates within 60 days of sailing, is also a popular new feature./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"And for those interested in a more intimate, up close and slower paced cruise experience, Cruise Direct Online has new a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/river_cruises/river_cruises_2010.htm"River Cruises/a offerings from AMA Waterways, Viking River Cruises, eWaterways, Uniworld River Cruises, and Avalon Waterways./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise Direct Online provides instant price quotes powered by the a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/travelocity_cruise_deals.htm"Travelocity Partner Network/a. Guests get a "real time" look at what's available directly from the cruise line's own reservation systems. They can check the latest discount pricing, availability, make a cabin selection, look up an itinerary, Guests can peruse an extensive library of customer and Cruise Critic cruise ship reviews. View photos, cruise line movies,and over 3,700 Virtual 360° ship tours. Plus, see itineraries, deck plans, ship details, and more. Now Cruise Direct Online's Travelocity branded best deals are available to guests on a moments notice....any time of the day or night. 24/7. Plus, a call center for reservations and customer service available 24/7./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise Direct Online even takes it a step further. Guests get the personal services of a Cruise Travel Advisor and any further applicable discounts if available; upgrades, resident or regional promotions, senior rates, past passenger coupons, or other savings, possibly making their cruise price even lower. The option to contact a Cruise Travel Advisor is integrated into the system. /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise Direct Online's "a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.cruisedirectonline.com"Cruise Travelers Ultimate Search Engine/a®" Features:/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Advanced Cruise Finder® search engine /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Instant online cruise booking /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Over 18 cruise lines featured /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Direct access to extensive inventory and low rates /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Virtual 360° ship tours, deck plans and cabin layout /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Personal cruise planner /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Seasonal specials and repositioning cruises /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Luxury, themed and lifestyle cruises /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Facts about destinations and ports of call /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Details on shore excursions /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"FAQ and in-depth cruise resources /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Up-to-date articles and tips on cruising /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Driving directions and travel tips /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"24/7 call center for reservations and customer service /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strongPersonalized Trip Planning/strong /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"In addition to booking, Cruise Direct Online's a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/mycruiseonline.htm"MyCruiseOnline/a(sm) special feature provides guests with their very own cruise booking information online at the cruise line's official web site to help prepare them for their vacation. By planning ahead, guests are ensured an organized, well-thought-out cruise vacation experience. Cruise Direct Online's MyCruiseOnline feature allows scheduled cruise passengers to review booking details, search for frequently asked questions, check out their ship information, learn about the destinations, view maps, access the Port Guide that provides information on their ports of call, and purchase shore excursions, cruise and destination products and services. Guests can pre-register their preferences, complete important immigration and fulfill Homeland Security documentation requirements, all online. Guests even have the ability to print their own boarding documents, luggage tags and view weather reports of their destinations. /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;""We've now made it easier to search our site and find all the current up-to-the-moment cruise bargains with just a few quick clicks of the mouse. In one fell swoop, guests can find it all. We hope that with this new feature, guests will be able to find what they're looking for faster and easier on Cruise Direct Online." said Marty Trencher, Managing Director of Cruise Direct Online. "In this economy, low price and good old fashioned service are what consumers demand". We want to be there as consumers progressively embracing electronic bookings as a powerful and more efficient way of making cruise reservations. Now with real time, live access to the reservation systems of all the top cruise lines we have completed the service model we were looking for." /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"# # # /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Cruise Direct Online is a leading seller of discounted cruises online through its web site, a href="http://www.cruisedirectonline.com/"http://www.cruisedirectonline.com//a nbsp;Celebrating it's tenth year on the Internet, Cruise Direct Online is owned by Travel Direct Corporation. Cruise Direct Online's web site has been certified by the Professional Internet Travel Alliance( PITA) Guest's can visit and/or register at their web site knowing that their personal information will be kept strictly confidential. Our company has adapted the PITA Rules of Conduct for Online Travel Sales and maintains the highest standards for ethical online business practices. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongAbout Travelocity/strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.travelocity.com"Travelocity/a, a Sabre Holdings company, pioneered the online travel space and continues to be the most popular travel service on the Web, giving consumers access to hundreds of airlines, thousands of hotels and cruise, last-minute and vacations packages, and best-in-class car rental companies, all backed by 1,000 customer service representatives staffed to provide 24-hour assistance. With 44 million members, Travelocity is the sixth largest travel agency in the United States. It has been recognized worldwide for its leadership in the online travel space and it operates websites in several languages across four continents. The Cruise Booking Engine is owned and operated by World Choice Travel, a division of Travelocity, LP./spandiv class="blogger-post-footer"img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9902695-1097789028303071910?l=cruisenews.blogspot.com' alt='' //div
What Travel Documents Do I Need To Take A Cruise? Do I Need A Passport?
December 18th, 2009 | Comments Off | Posted in Documents Needed to Cruise, Passports For A Cruise, US Passports For Cruises
span style="font-size: x-small;"strongQ. What travel documents and identification will I need for domestic and International nbsp;cruise sailings? /strong/spanbr /strongbr //strongbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strongA. Here's The Vital Information You Need To Know Before You Go.../strong/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"But before you read on....Know that the informationnbsp;below is for reference purposes only and is subject to change at anytime without notice. You are advised to contact the cruise line for the latest requirements and if necessary the appropriate consulate, U.S. Embassy or U.S. Immigration office to inquire further about travel documents. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Do not rely on the information provided below, as it could have changed or may change before you travel. The State Department has changed the regulations so many times that it is nearly impossible to keep up./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"So, you must check with your cruise line about the specific requirements for your cruise before you show up at the pier. Failure to have the proper documentation could result in denied boarding. If you are denied boarding you will not get a refund. Cruise Traveler Magazine assumes no responsibility for advising guests of immigration, proof of Citizenship and Proof of Identity requirements. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"· Domestic sailings are all sailings originating and ending in ports located in the U.S., Canada and Mexico including Panama Canal sailings. Information about international sailinmgs can be found later in this document/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Before Leaving Home:/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"· Please take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the required travel documents you will be asked to provide prior to boarding the ship. Caution: The requirements described below are subject to change by governmental bodies without notice. So, you must check with your cruise line well in advance of travel for the latest requirements./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· It is the sole responsibility of the guest to identify and obtain all required travel documents and have them available when necessary. These appropriate valid travel documents such as a passport, visas, inoculation certificate and family legal documents are required for ship boarding and country entry and/or re-entry./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"· Guests who do not possess the proper documentation may be prevented from boarding their flight or ship or from entering a country and may be subject to fines. No refunds will be given to individuals who fail to bring the proper documentation./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· The spelling of the guest(s) name above must match their proof of identification during ship check-in formalities./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· Due to new government regulations, guests must be checked-in no later than 90 minutes prior to the sailing time or they will not be permitted to sail. To expedite boarding, check-in online at your cruise line's web site./spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· Please immediately review all guest names printed on your booking confirmation or on Insight for accuracy. For Air/Sea reservations, a name change fee of $75 or more Domestic and $125 International may apply after ticketing. ( check with your cruise line about their fees ) Name changes may result in a new booking so that original flights, fares and seat assignments may be lost. Additional airline fees and penalties may apply to assigned air reservations./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· The Department of Homeland Security requires all Domestic US Airlines to collect the following information for each passenger; Passengers Full Name (as it appears on government issued IDs), Date of Birth and Gender. Please contact your Airline no later than 72 hours (3days) prior to flight departure to provide them the required information.br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Failure to do so may result in check-in delays or denied boarding. If you have any questions, please contact the Airline directly./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Consecutive Sailings.br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"· Guests on consecutive sailings must ensure they have the proper travel documents for their entire cruise vacation./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongPassport/strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"· As of June 1, 2009, the U.S. government implemented the full requirements of the land and sea phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). This requires all travelers to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda to present a valid passport or other approved document that establishes the bearer's identity and citizenship in order to enter or reenter the United States. Passports must have at least 6 months to go before they expire from the date you return to the United States./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same port in the U.S.) will be able to enter or depart the country with proof of citizenship, such as an Original birth certificate ( photo-copies are not acceptable ) and laminated government issued picture ID, denoting photo, name and date of birth. A U.S. citizen under the age of 16 will be able to present either an original or a copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issues by DOS, or Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· A U.S. citizen under the age of 16 will be able to present either an original or a copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issues by DOS, or Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"For further details about WHTI requirements and a complete list of approved documents , please visit/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /a href="http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html#compliant_document"span style="font-size: x-small;"http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html#compliant_document/span/abr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Alien Registration Card (Green Card)/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"· U.S. lawful permanent residents will continue to be able to use their Alien Registration Card issued by the Department of Homeland Security or other valid evidence of permanent residence status to apply for entry to United States./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· Card renewal is an important matter. ARC holders (United States permanent residents) with expired cards may be considered "out of status" and may be denied entry / reentry into the United States. If your ARC was issued over 10 years ago, you should check the expiration date printed on the front of the card. If your card is expired, or it is about to expire, you should renew your card before you sail./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· If you are holding an old edition ARC WITHOUT an expiration date, you will not be detained from entering the United States but U.S. Customs and Border Protection highly suggests that you apply for a new card before you sail./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"· For additional information, visit: http://www.usimmigrationsupport.org/greencard_renewal.html/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strongFamily Legal Documents/strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Should the last names of the parent and minor child traveling with them differ, the parent is required to present the child's valid passport and visa (if required) and the child's birth certificate (original, a notarized copy or a certified copy). The name of the parent(s) and the child must be linked through legal documentation./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Adults who are not the parent or Legal Guardian of any minor child traveling with them are required to present the child's valid passport and visa and an original notarized letter signed by at least one of the child's parents. The notarized letter from the child's parent must authorize the traveling adult to take the child on the specific cruise, must authorize guardian to sign legal documentation/waivers for participation in any activities requiring them and must authorize the traveling adult to supervise the child and permit any medical treatment that must be administered to the child. If a non-parent adult is a Legal Guardian, the adult must present a certified certificate of Guardianship with respect to the child. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"--------------------------------------------------------------------------------br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Q: What travel documents and identification will I need for international sailings? /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"A: Please note: Domestic sailings are all sailings originating and ending in ports located in the U.S., Canada and Mexico including Panama Canal sailings. /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"All other sailings are considered to be international sailings. These include itineraries in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America and Australia/New Zealand and most of rest of the World including re-positioning sailings originating or ending in their ports. U.S. citizens traveling on any international sailing are required to have valid passports. ( good for 6 months beyond the date you return to the United States )/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Before Leaving Home:/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Please take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the required travel documents you will be asked to provide prior to boarding your ship. Caution: The requirements described below are subject to change by governmental bodies without notice. So you need to check with your cruise line for the latest requirements well in advance of travel./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"It is the sole responsibility of the guest to identify and obtain all required travel documents and have them available when necessary. These appropriate valid travel documents such as a passport, visas, inoculation certificate and family legal documents are required for ship boarding and country entry and/or re-entry./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Guests who do not possess the proper documentation may be prevented from boarding their flight or ship or from entering a country and may be subject to fines. No refunds will be given to individuals who fail to bring the proper documentation./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Consecutive Sailings br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Guests on consecutive sailings must ensure they have the proper travel documents for their entire cruise vacation. br //spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Passport A valid passport is required for travel. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"For your protection, your passport expiration date must be in excess of six(6) months of the sailing termination date. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"U.S. citizens carrying an Official (maroon cover) passport must also be in possession of a valid Diplomatic or personal (blue or green cover) passport to allow ship embarkation. br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Visas It is the guests' responsibility to identify and to obtain the necessary visas before commencing their cruise. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Based on nationality, many countries still require an entry visa. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Suggestions on where to get visa information: /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"U.S. citizens can visit the U.S. Department of State Foreign Entry Requirements br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Canadian citizens can visit Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"the Embassies (Consular Service Office) of each country on your sailing itinerary /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"or the visa service of your choice, such as CIBT for specific visa requirements, information, forms and fees that apply to your nationality. br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"CIBT toll free telephone: 1.800.858.8579 /spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"INOCULATION / HEALTH/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"As detailed in our brochure, all guests must ensure that they are medically and physically fit for travel. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) provide guidelines as to which vaccinations are required in each country. In many cases inoculations are recommended but in some circumstances they are required. We recommend that you check with your health care professional or a Travel Medicine Specialist certified by the WHO for guidance. Other informational resources can be accessed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Traveler's Health website. or toll free at 1-877-FYI-TRIP, and the World Health Organization website./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongFamily Legal Documents/strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Should the last names of the parent and minor child traveling with them differ, the parent is required to present the child's valid passport and visa (if required) and the child's birth certificate (original, a notarized copy or a certified copy). The name of the parent(s) and the child must be linked through legal documentation./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Adults who are not the parent or Legal Guardian of any minor child traveling with them are required to present the child's valid passport and visa and an original notarized letter signed by at least one of the child's parents. The notarized letter from the child's parent must authorize the traveling adult to take the child on the specific cruise, must authorize guardian to sign legal documentation/waivers for participation in any activities requiring them and must authorize the traveling adult to supervise the child and permit any medical treatment that must be administered to the child. If a non-parent adult is a Legal Guardian, the adult must present a certified certificate of Guardianship with respect to the child. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Please take a minute to review the passport policy below. If you don't already have a valid passport, be sure to avoid the rush and give yourself plenty of time to apply for one. Once you've got a passport in hand, the whole world is yours to explore. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"------------------------------------------------------------------------------/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strongU.S. Citizen Passport Requirement/strongbr //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) when fully implemented on June 1, 2009 will require all travelers to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda to present a valid passport or other approved document that establishes the bearer's identity and citizenship in order to enter or reenter the United States. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongPassport Requirementsbr //strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"A valid passport is a requirement for air travel to / from Canada, Mexico the Caribbean and Bermuda/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br /nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Effective June 1, 2009 only a valid passport (unless otherwise noted below) or other WHTI compliant document will be accepted for entry or re-entry into the United States. For a list of all approved documents visit: /spana href="http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html#compliant_document"span style="font-size: x-small;"http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html#compliant_document/span/abr /span style="font-size: x-small;"U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same port in the U.S.) will be able to enter or depart the country with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate and laminated government issued picture ID, denoting photo, name and date of birth. A U.S. citizen under the age of 16 will be able to present either an original or a certified copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issues by DOS, or Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongAlien Registration Card (Green Card)/strongbr //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"U.S. lawful permanent residents will continue to be able to use their Alien Registration Card issued by the Department of Homeland Security or other valid evidence of permanent residence status to apply for entry to United States. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Card renewal is an important matter. ARC holders (United States permanent residents) with expired cards may be considered "out of status" and may be denied entry / reentry into the United States. If your ARC was issued over 10 years ago, you should check the expiration date printed on the front of the card. If your card is expired, or it is about to expire, you should renew your card before you sail. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"If you are holding an old edition ARC WITHOUT an expiration date, you will not be detained from entering the United States but U.S. Customs and Border Protection highly suggests that you apply for a new card before you sail. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br /nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"For additional information, visit: /spana href="http://www.usimmigrationsupport.org/greencard_renewal.html"span style="font-size: x-small;"http://www.usimmigrationsupport.org/greencard_renewal.html/span/abr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Sea Travel Only (before June 1, 2009)/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br /nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"For domestic travel which includes: the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico, a Passport (valid or expired), valid U.S. Passport Card or State or Provincial Enhanced Drivers License is highly recommended. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"In the absence of a Passport, U.S. Passport Card or State or Provincial Enhanced Drivers License (when available - this secure drivers license will denote identity and citizenship) or any other Department of Home Land Security approved Identification / Citizenship document(s), a birth certificate (original or certified copy), plus a laminated picture ID card including photo, name and date of birth issued by a federal, state, or local government agency is required. br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"U.S. and Canadian citizen children ages 16 and under will be expected to present a birth certificate issued by a federal, state, provincial, county or municipal authority. br //spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Note: /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Baptismal paper and hospital certificates of birth are not acceptable./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"A voter registration card or Social Security Card are not considered to be proof of citizenship.br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"For U.S. Naturalized citizens, in the absence of a passport, Naturalization papers (either original or notarized copy) plus a laminated picture ID card issued by a federal, state, or local government agency is required. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongInternational Travel/strongbr //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"A valid passport is required; visas are required where they apply. This includes Europe, Asia, Central and South America.nbsp; /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"For additional passport information, visit /spana href="http://www.travel.state.gov/"span style="font-size: x-small;"www.travel.state.gov/span/aspan style="font-size: x-small;"./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"strongOur Recommendationbr //strong/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Wenbsp;strongly recommend that all guests travel with a valid passport during their cruise. This greatly assists guests who may need to fly out of the United States to meet their ship at the next available port should they miss their scheduled embarkation in a U.S. port; guests entering the U.S. at the end of their cruise; and guests needing to fly to the U.S. before their cruise ends, because of medical, family, personal or business emergencies, missing a ship's departure from a port of call, involuntary disembarkation from a ship due to misconduct, or other reasons. br //spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Guests who need to fly to the United States before their cruise ends will likely experience significant delays and complications related to booking airline tickets and entering the United States if they do not have a valid U.S. passport with them. For additional passport information visit /spana href="http://www.travel.state.gov/"span style="font-size: x-small;"www.travel.state.gov/span/abr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Non-U.S. Citizensbr //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"You will need a valid passport and, in some cases, a visa. If you live in the U.S., you will also need the original copy of your Alien Registration Card (ARC or "Green Card") and any other documentation the countries on your itinerary require due to your alien status. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Canadian Landed Immigrantsbr //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"All Canadian Landed Immigrants (inclusive of those who are citizens of the British Commonwealth countries) who reside in Canada must have valid passports and US visas. Also required is the original copy of your Permanent Resident Card (PR Card) formally the IMM 1000 or with respect to any country on the itinerary any other travel documentation required because of alien status. /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"strongVisas/strongbr //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Please contact the Embassy (Consular Services) of each country on your sailing itinerary or the visa service of your choice for specific visa requirements, information, forms and fees for your nationality. br //spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"strongVISA WAIVER PROGRAMbr //strong/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Citizens from the Visa Waiver Program countries of: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunel, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom seeking to enter the United States will be required to have in their possession a machine readable, biometic passport with a digital photograph valid for the duration of the voyage. br //spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"A machine readable passport is one having an alpha-numeric code on the bottom of the picture page. /spandiv class="blogger-post-footer"img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9902695-3466417606953453252?l=cruisenews.blogspot.com' alt='' //div
Holland America Line Offers View Verandah Sale With up to 45% Savings On Ocean-View Verandah Staterooms
span style="font-size: x-small;"Holland America Line Offers Their View amp; Verandah Sale With up to 45% Savings On Ocean-View amp; Verandah Stateroomsnbsp; for 2010/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Holland America Line has announced its annual View and Verandah Sale that they say features extraordinary fares on ocean-view and verandah staterooms for hundreds of departures for 2010. Cruisers can enjoynbsp;price reductionsnbsp;of up to 45 percent off ocean-view and verandah accommodations./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;""Cruising provides the best vacation value today," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest relations. "Holland America Line already stands out for providing a premium vacation and now is the best time to book with these great cruise fares."/spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"nbsp;/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"Cruisers also enjoy reduced deposits, third and fourth guest savings, and 25 percent savings on select hotels for pre- or post-cruise stays. Fares for the View and Verandah Sale start at $499 for 7-day Alaska cruises, $599 for 7-day Caribbean sailings, and $1,199 for 12-day Europe and Panama Canal voyages./spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"Holland America Line Sails to All Seven Continents /spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"Holland America Line's fleet of 14 ships offers nearly 500 cruises to 320 ports in more than 100 countries. Two- to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents and highlights include Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages, a Grand World Voyage, and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal. A 15th ship, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, is scheduled to join the fleet on July 4, 2010./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"/spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"The fleet features more than $525 million in Signature of Excellence enhancements that showcase new staterooms and public areas on Statendam- and Rotterdam-class ships. Highlights also include the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food amp; Wine magazine -- a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes -- Explorations Cafe powered by The New York Times, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities of flat-panel televisions and plush Euro-top Mariner's Dream Beds./spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"For more information on Holland America Line's View and Verandah Sale promotion, consult this professional travel agent: Cruise DIrect Online. Call them at 800.365.1445 or visit their View and Verandah Information page at www.cruisedirectonline.com/hollandamericacruisesonline.htm/spanbr /br /span style="font-size: x-small;"World's Leading Cruise Lines /spanspan style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"br //spanbr /span style="font-size: x-small;"The highest-rated premium cruise line in the world, Holland America Line is a member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line and Costa Cruises. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, these lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. The World's Leading Cruise Lines offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations./spandiv class="blogger-post-footer"img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9902695-2463415268990727400?l=cruisenews.blogspot.com' alt='' //divNorwegian Cruise Line Celebrates 10 Years Of Freestyle Cruising; Declares 2010 “The Year Of The Freestyle Vacation”
Norwegian Cruise Line Celebrates 10 Years Of Freestyle Cruising; Declares 2010 "The Year Of The Freestyle Vacation"Three-month promotion features upgrades, up to $400 in on-board savings and targeted offers to select destinations
Norwegian Cruise Line is ringing in the New Year three weeks early with a bevy of promotions marking 2010 as "The Year of the Freestyle Vacation." All new reservations from today through March 14, 2010 on any of the line's 10 Freestyle Cruising ships will receive up to a six-category upgrade and on-board savings certificates of up to $400. In addition, bi-weekly promotions will feature special offers on select ships and destinations. The first offer from January 4-17, 2010 includes reduced deposits and kids from $249 for bookings on Norwegian Epic's seven-day cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.
"It has been ten years since Norwegian first introduced its innovative Freestyle Cruising, so it is fitting that we celebrate 2010 as 'The Year of the Freestyle Vacation' as we move to introduce the next phase of Freestyle Cruising with the launch of Norwegian Epic in the summer of 2010," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian's chief executive officer.
About Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is an innovator in cruise travel with a 43-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, Norwegian has the youngest fleet in the industry with 10 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 Norwegian Epic, the company's largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship to date, for delivery in summer 2010. Norwegian Cruise Line is the official cruise line of Blue Man Group, debuting for the first time at sea on Norwegian Epic.
Consumers can find more information and sales promotions about 'The Year of the Freestyle Vacation' at www.cruisedirectonline.com
Why Cruise Alaska?
December 14th, 2009 | Comments Off | Posted in Alaska, alaska cruise tours, alaska cruise vacations, alaska cruises
Why Cruise Alaska?For drama and beauty, few places anywhere in the world can match the splendor of Alaska. And few things can provide a richer, more comprehensive Alaskan experience than an Alaska cruise or cruisetour. At each port, you'll discover riches of another kind as we introduce you to the cultural and historical wonder that makes Alaska one of the most exciting destinations you'll ever encounter.
Standing at the edge of a rainbow field of wildflowers, you admire nature's quiet and epic majesty. Then, something stirs - a rustling in the brush as a huge moose rises from rest and wanders off. A moment like this could only happen in Alaska. Welcome to the Great Land.
You never forget them - the vivid impressions from your first visit to Alaska. A 10-story crystal-blue river of ice in Glacier Bay National Park, icebergs calving into the tidewater with a thunderous crack. The spectacular and untamed wildlife, from a nesting eagle high in a Sitka spruce to a family of brown bears foraging along a rocky beach. Your first glimpse of the soaring, silent magnificence of Mt. McKinley. It's everything you ever imagined - and all you traveled so far to see. This is one of life's greatest adventures. One you'll want to plan carefully so you don't miss a thing.
And the 2010 season offers some of the best opportunities ever for experiencing the Great Land, by land and sea. From thrilling voyages on large and small ships to cruisetours featuring exclusive glass domed traincars. Reasoning suggests that more glass means better viewing, so when they designed these traincars they had one goal in mind: to make them the most luxurious and spacious glass-domed traincars in Alaska. Guests enjoy wide leather reclining seats. And you won't miss a single view while sampling Alaskan cuisine onboard. Enjoy the ride as you pass waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, lakes, wildlife and an abundance of fauna and foliage. You should head to the Observation Platform for some fresh Alaska
air. Perhaps to get a closer view of a moose in the wild. Visit the Certified Alaska Experts at www.alaskacruisetoursonline.com who offer you a wide variety of options to one of travel's greatest destinations.
Get the Most Out of Every Moment. Go Beyond the Sea.
A Cruisetour to Alaska is truly the best of both worlds.You'll enjoy the personal attention and lavish onboard amenities that make a cruise such a delightful way to experience the Alaskan coastline. On an escorted or hosted multi-night land journey, you'll travel onboard luxurious glass-domed traincars, discovering the interior at its most beautiful and its most authentic. There are over 98 Cruisetours to Alaska, offered by 4 cruise lines: Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, each of which allows you to stay in lodging that reflects Alaska's character and history, from deluxe hotels to old-time lodges. And on escorted tours
throughout your adventure you'll be accompanied by a Tour Director, who will serve as both guide and personal concierge.
Holland America Line’s 2011 Grand Voyages Set to Explore Seven Continents, 65 Countries
Holland America Line's 2011 Grand Voyages Set to Explore Seven Continents, 65 CountriesHolland America Line’s ms Amsterdam and the line’s Elegant Explorer, ms Prinsendam, will each sail two spectacular Grand Voyages in 2011. When combined, the four extensive itineraries feature a total of 308 cruising days, 121 ports of call and 65 countries.
Built for world cruising, Amsterdam will sail a 110-day Grand World Voyage in January and a 70-day Grand Asia & Australia Voyage in the fall. Simultaneously, ms Prinsendam will sail a 66-day Grand South America & Antarctica Voyage followed by a 62-day Grand Africa & Mediterranean Voyage.
“A Grand Voyage with Holland America Line is more than a vacation, it’s an experience of a lifetime,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, for Holland America Line. “These voyages offer guests a unique blend of inspired itineraries, lasting friendships and the pleasures of life at sea while exploring the world.”
Grand World Voyage
Departing Jan. 5 and sailing roundtrip Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Amsterdam rings in 2011 with its sixth Grand World Voyage. The 110-day journey is a port collector’s dream that includes 10 overnight calls, visits to an impressive collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and three maiden ports of call — Alofi, Niue; Oban, Stewart Island, New Zealand; and Koror, Palau. Several exciting segments ranging from 16 to 48 days also are available.
Sailing westbound, Amsterdam will call on Puerto Limón, Costa Rica, before continuing on its way to a daylight transit of the Panama Canal, one of the most remarkable man-made wonders in the world. Also in store for guests are unforgettable calls at Callao, Peru — the gateway to Machu Picchu — and Easter Island, Chile, known for its famous giant stone statues. As Amsterdam continues its voyage, the ship will journey throughout Australia and Asia, transit the Suez Canal and cruise the Mediterranean before crossing the Atlantic and heading back to the States.
Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage
Also departing Jan. 5 on a Grand Voyage is Holland America Line’s most intimate ship, ms Prinsendam, which is designed to explore the most remote corners of the world in elegance and style. Prinsendam returns to South America, Antarctica and the Amazon on a 66-day Grand South America & Antarctica Voyage that sails roundtrip Fort Lauderdale. The itinerary emphasizes in-depth exploration by offering eight overnight calls, including an overnight at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and a maiden call at Fernando de Noronha, Brazil. Other memorable moments include eight full days of cruising the Amazon River, navigating around Cape Horn and through the Straits of Magellan, a daylight passage through the Panama Canal and scenic cruising in Antarctica. An option for those with less time is a 33-day segment to or from Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Grand Africa and Mediterranean Voyage
Following its Grand Voyage down south, Prinsendam returns to Ft. Lauderdale March 12 and embarks on a 62-day Grand Africa & Mediterranean Voyage. The roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale sailing takes guests on a journey to West Africa, the Mediterranean and the Holy Lands. Guests will enjoy a call at Haifa (Tel Aviv), Israel, where they may travel to Nazareth and visit the land of miracles: Galilee, the Jordan River, the Mount of the Beatitudes and Tabgha. This exceptional itinerary will especially appeal to guests who have traveled or cruised this region before, as the ship is set to call at many unique ports including Banjul, Gambia; Dakar, Senegal, and Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands. Four maiden ports of call are scheduled for the Grand Africa and Mediterranean Voyage as well: Havre de Robert, Martinique; Lipari, Italy; Syracusa, Sicily, Italy and Motril, Spain.
Grand Asia and Australia Voyage
Amsterdam will wrap up the year with a 70-day Grand Asia and Australia Voyage sailing from Seattle, Wash., to Los Angeles, Calif., departing Sept. 26. Following calls throughout Asia to Indonesia, the itinerary will continue to Western Australia and the South Pacific. This voyage offers extensive time in port to allow guests to take in the wide-ranging history and culture of the region and includes overnights at Beijing and Hong Kong, China, and Sydney, Australia. Guests on board also can enjoy some tropical sunshine with calls at the exotic islands of New Caledonia, Samoa, Fiji and Hawaii.
2011 Grand Voyages open for reservations
Reservations are now available for all four Holland America Line 2011 Grand Voyages, and early-booking bonus amenities for full-cruise guests may include prepaid hotel service charges, a shipboard credit, luggage delivery service and an exclusive shore event when booking select stateroom categories; amenities vary by cruise and category booked.
The four Grand Voyages are available to book for the full cruise or in segments as short as 16 days. Cruise fares are per person, double occupancy, and rates start at $16,999 for Amsterdam’s 110-day Grand World Voyage departing Jan. 5, 2011; $10,999 for Prinsendam’s 66-day Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage departing Jan. 5, 2011; $9,599 for Prinsendam’s 62-day Grand Africa and Mediterranean Voyage departing March 26, 2011; and $9,499 for Amsterdam’s 70-day Grand Asia and Australia Voyage departing Sept. 26, 2011.
Complete details regarding Holland America’s 2011 Grand Voyages are included in the line’s recently released brochure, “Exotic Voyages 2010-2011.” Along with important itinerary information for both 2010 and 2011, “Exotic Voyages 2010-2011” includes detailed maps, fare information, sample shore excursions, pre-and-post hotel and vacation packages, stateroom floor plans, an “at-a-glance” 2010 -2011 sailing schedule and ship deck plans. The brochure is also available on the Holland America Line website.
For more information on Holland America Line’s Grand Voyages—consult a professional travel agent: Cruise Direct Online, call them at 800.365.1445
Azamara Cruises Becomes “Azamara Club Cruises”
December 10th, 2009 | Comments Off | Posted in Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, Azamara cruises, azamara club cruises
Azamara Cruises Becomes "Azamara Club Cruises" Newly refined brand unveils multiple new attributes for upmarket travelers
Azamara Cruises - the two-ship brand launched in 2007 with the 694-guest Azamara Journey and sister ship Azamara Quest - today became "Azamara Club Cruises," with a newly refined focus, and a series of new attributes designed for upmarket, experienced travelers.
"This isn't a strategy of going 'from good to great'," said Azamara Club Cruises President & CEO Larry Pimentel. "This is about taking an already great product and making it exceptional."
Tapped to take the helm of Azamara Cruises in July of this year, Pimentel spent several weeks talking with travel agents, past guests and press to determine how to make his great-to-exceptional goal a reality. He also tapped a small new team focused 100 percent on Azamara, including VP of Sales & Marketing Edie Bornstein, AVP of Hotel Operations Bert Van Middendorp, Director of Marketing Signe Bjorndal, Director of National Accounts Michelle Nevin, and an eight-member field sales team dedicated solely to Azamara. Together, Pimentel and team shaped the new Azamara Club Cruises, whose most distinguishing new attributes will be in effect by April 2010.
"Today's cruisers have incredible new vacation options - like Celebrity's stunning Solstice Class, and Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas," said Pimentel. "Azamara Club Cruises will distinguish itself by delivering the destination like no other line."
Azamara Club Cruises will visit 140 ports in 50 countries in 2010, with itineraries featuring more overnight stays to allow guests to immerse themselves in communities and cultures. Among the overnight locations are Istanbul, Turkey; Sorrento, Italy, which offers a host of tour options along the Amalfi Coast and Capri; a full three days and two nights in St. Peters burg, Russia, on Azamara's Scandinavia and Russia itineraries; and multiple overnight stays in Azamara's Southeast Asia region, including Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Singapore and Hong Kong.
"We're going to slow down the tempo, and allow our guests to not just see the destination, but to live it," said Pimentel. "Consider destinations like St. Tropez or St. Petersburg, Russia. If you've experienced them only by day, you haven't really experienced them. With Azamara, through more overnight stays and late-night stays, you can."
The destination focus of Azamara Club Cruises inspired the brand's new tagline - "You'll love where we take you" - and will extend to its shore excursions, too, an essential ingredient to allow guests to truly experience a community and its culture. Azamara has created distinctive two-day packages tailored to the overnight destinations, to make it easy for guests to immerse themselves in each location, whether it's Dubrovnik, Croatia; Odessa, Ukraine; Livorno (Florence), Italy, Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany, or London, in addition to Sorrento and St. Petersburg.
Azamara also will offer experiences such as a two-night package from Bangkok to Laos; an overnight tour from Hiroshima to Osaka via bullet train; a three-night experience from Mumbai including a visit to the Taj Mahal; overnight tours in Israel between Ashdod and Cairo, and a Grand Egypt tour featuring the best of both Luxor and Cairo.
Among Azamara's specialty tours include a Ferrari driving tour in Civitavecchia, Italy; a walk down memory lane in Liverpool with the "In the steps of The Beatles" tour; a private demonstration of chocolate flavors in Dubrovnik; a "Theatre A La Carte" evening in London; Croatian liqueur tasting in Zadar; an Imperial Russian Court evening at Tsarskoye Selo in St. Petersburg; an evening gondola serenade in Venice; and high tea at the Burj al Arab Hotel in Dubai.
Praised for its dining experience since its founding, Azamara will continue to place a heavy emphasis on fine cuisine, and will expand its focus on wine to include vintages from boutique wineries around the world. Guests will have the opportunity to taste high quality wines that may be unavailable at home, because the selected vineyards produce a strictly limited quantity each year, distributed primarily locally. The featured wines will be offered complimentary at lunches and dinners on every sailing.
Wellness and vigor will be a core component of the Azamara Club Cruises experience, too, with onboard and land-based experiences designed to help guests feel and look healthier and more youthful. Azamara's aim in wellness and vigor is to help guests balance their physical, emotional, social, spiritual and intellectual needs through massages, facials and other spa treatments, as well as acupuncture, yoga, Pilates, and enrichment programs.
The newly refined brand also is intensely focused on offering an intangible attribute essential to a successful upmarket product: exceptional service.
"Extraordinary service is paramount with Azamara Club Cruises," said Pimentel. "We know every travel and hospitality organization proclaims it's committed to great service, so what will make Azamara stand out? First, our butlers will be trained to be true English butlers, to offer that fine balance of anticipatory, pampering, yet non-intrusive service to guests in every suite." Guests in staterooms will be served by the line's host of experienced stateroom attendants.
Azamara Club Cruises also will offer many inclusive amenities, with the following included in the cruise fare beginning with the first voyages in April 2010 on Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest: a specific brand of bottled water offered at no charge throughout the voyage, whether in public venues or in staterooms; specialty coffees and teas; housekeeping and dining gratuities; shuttlebus service to/from port communities, where available; destination-influenced entertainment and enrichment programs; most meals and room service; house wine at lunches and dinners; and self-service laundry. Specialty dining in Azamara's intimate Prime C steakhouse and the Mediterranean-influenced Aqualina will be complimentary for suite guests for the duration of their cruise. Cruisers who can't get enough of Azamara will be invited to join the line's new loyalty program, "Le Club Voyage," with specific features and benefits yet to be announced.
For more information, reservations, questions- Cruise Direct Online:
Call 800-365-1445.
