The first of the week Royal Caribbean's SVP of Marine Operations, Capt Bill Wright, recorded a video in his Miami office to talk about the incident aboard Brilliance of the Seas when it ran into heavy seas in the Mediterranean. Today, he recorded an update from the ship's bridge while it was at Malta.
In addition to this video, Wright and Brilliance's captain, Erik Tengelsen, recorded an interview with the the Times of Malta. That video shows some of the damage to the ship and can be seen on the paper's website.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Carnival Cancels Additional Splendor Sailings
Carnival Cruise Lines announced this morning that Carnival Splendor will be out of service until February 20, 2011.
The line had previously canceled sailings through January 16, 2011 while repairs are completed from fire in the engine room in November.
Passengers on the canceled cruises are receiving a full refund or a future cruise credit in the amount they have paid. If they choose to rebook, they will receive a 25% discount and an onboard credit.
We'll have additional details in today's edition of Cruise News Daily.
The line had previously canceled sailings through January 16, 2011 while repairs are completed from fire in the engine room in November.
Passengers on the canceled cruises are receiving a full refund or a future cruise credit in the amount they have paid. If they choose to rebook, they will receive a 25% discount and an onboard credit.
We'll have additional details in today's edition of Cruise News Daily.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Royal Caribbean "Speaks" about Brilliance Incident
Royal Caribbean's SVP of Marine Operations took to You Tube to speak to customers (and the world) directly about Sunday's incident aboard Brilliance of the Seas where it encountered heavy sea which resulted to several passenger injuries, some breakage onboard, and some cosmetic damage to the ship's interior.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Additional Carnival Splendor Cancellations
Carnival Cruise Lines has now determined damage to Carnival Splendor from last week's fire was more extensive than originally estimated, and the line has canceled all sailings until January 16, 2011.
Affected passengers are being given full refunds along with a 25% discount on a future cruise.
Details to follow in today's edition of Cruise News Daily.
Affected passengers are being given full refunds along with a 25% discount on a future cruise.
Details to follow in today's edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Carnival Splendor Update - Conditions improving
Updated 12:44pm eastern
Carnival Splendor is continuing under tow to San Diego after its early Monday morning fire which disabled the ship's propulsion system.
The second tug boat has arrived at the scene and is assisting in the tow, so speeds have increased some. Carnival now estimates that the ship will arrive at San Diego at midday on Thursday.
As the ship is getting closer to shore, some passengers are able to get cellular phone connections. The ship's telephone system is working intermittently, and passengers are able to make complimentary calls home.
Food and beverage services continue to be provided along with a limited schedule of activities. Carnival says that toilets continue to function in most staterooms and all public restrooms.
When the ship arrives, it will be met by a large team of Carnival employees who are arranging hotels and onward transportation home.
Original article and updates
Carnival Splendor is continuing under tow to San Diego after its early Monday morning fire which disabled the ship's propulsion system.
The second tug boat has arrived at the scene and is assisting in the tow, so speeds have increased some. Carnival now estimates that the ship will arrive at San Diego at midday on Thursday.
As the ship is getting closer to shore, some passengers are able to get cellular phone connections. The ship's telephone system is working intermittently, and passengers are able to make complimentary calls home.
Food and beverage services continue to be provided along with a limited schedule of activities. Carnival says that toilets continue to function in most staterooms and all public restrooms.
When the ship arrives, it will be met by a large team of Carnival employees who are arranging hotels and onward transportation home.
Original article and updates
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Carnival Splendor Update - the tow has begun
Carnival Cruise Lines has changed their plans for Carnival Splendor. The tow has now begun, but instead of Ensenada, the plan it now to tow the ship to San Diego to make for a faster and easier route home for the passengers.
One tug has reached the ship and begun the tow. As other tug boats reach the ship and assist, they will expedite the process. The plan is now for Carnival Splendor to reach San Diego late on Thursday. Carnival has already booked hotels there for the passengers, and is confirming onward flights for them based on the Thursday arrival time.
If they can't maintain speed, Carnival says they can revert to the plan to tow the ship to Ensenada and bus the passengers back to Southern California.
Carnival says passengers are able to move about the ship. Limited food and beverage service, along with some shipboard programming, including children’s activities and entertainment, are being provided.
Engineers are continuing to work trying to restore power to other hotel services.
Original article and updates
One tug has reached the ship and begun the tow. As other tug boats reach the ship and assist, they will expedite the process. The plan is now for Carnival Splendor to reach San Diego late on Thursday. Carnival has already booked hotels there for the passengers, and is confirming onward flights for them based on the Thursday arrival time.
If they can't maintain speed, Carnival says they can revert to the plan to tow the ship to Ensenada and bus the passengers back to Southern California.
Carnival says passengers are able to move about the ship. Limited food and beverage service, along with some shipboard programming, including children’s activities and entertainment, are being provided.
Engineers are continuing to work trying to restore power to other hotel services.
Original article and updates
Carnival Splendor Update - Nov 14 sailing canceled
Carnival has decided to now cancel Carnival Splendor's next cruise on November 14, 2010.
Passengers on that sailing will receive a full refund of their cruise fare and transportation costs. They will also receive a 25% discount on a future cruise.
“We sincerely apologize to our guests for this unfortunate situation and offer our thanks for their patience and cooperation during this challenging time," said Carnival president Gerry Cahill. "We also apologize for having to cancel the next voyage of the Carnival Splendor. We realize how much guests look forward to their vacations and we know how disheartening it is to have their plans disrupted."
Original article and updates
Passengers on that sailing will receive a full refund of their cruise fare and transportation costs. They will also receive a 25% discount on a future cruise.
“We sincerely apologize to our guests for this unfortunate situation and offer our thanks for their patience and cooperation during this challenging time," said Carnival president Gerry Cahill. "We also apologize for having to cancel the next voyage of the Carnival Splendor. We realize how much guests look forward to their vacations and we know how disheartening it is to have their plans disrupted."
Original article and updates
Update on Carnival Splendor - Military involvement
The tugs are still several hours away from the Carnival Splendor and the towing process is expected to begin in the early to mid-afternoon, Pacific time, meaning the operation is on track to reach Ensenada mid-to-late afternoon on Wednesday.
According to the US Coast Guard, when the ship reaches Ensenada, all passengers will disembark, and the ship will then be towed to Long Beach. The US Coast Guard Cutter Morgenthau will remain with the ship where it is adrift, approximately 200 miles south of San Diego, and then accompany it throughout the towing process until it reaches Long Beach to ensure the health and safety of passengers and crew.
Meanwhile, the US Navy has diverted the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan from its training maneuvers to a position south near Carnival Splendor to facilitate the delivery of needed supplies.
Beginning at 7am this morning (Pacific time), 35 pallets of supplies (food, water and hygiene supplies) were loaded onto VRC-30 Carrier On-board Delivery aircraft and flown to the Ronald Reagan. That part of the operation will take two or three trips of the aircraft and should wrap up in the late morning (Pacific time). Once aboard the Ronald Reagan, the 35,000 pounds of supplies will be repackaged into smaller loads and flown to Carnival Splendor on the carrier's helicopters this afternoon.
Original article and updates
According to the US Coast Guard, when the ship reaches Ensenada, all passengers will disembark, and the ship will then be towed to Long Beach. The US Coast Guard Cutter Morgenthau will remain with the ship where it is adrift, approximately 200 miles south of San Diego, and then accompany it throughout the towing process until it reaches Long Beach to ensure the health and safety of passengers and crew.
Meanwhile, the US Navy has diverted the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan from its training maneuvers to a position south near Carnival Splendor to facilitate the delivery of needed supplies.
Beginning at 7am this morning (Pacific time), 35 pallets of supplies (food, water and hygiene supplies) were loaded onto VRC-30 Carrier On-board Delivery aircraft and flown to the Ronald Reagan. That part of the operation will take two or three trips of the aircraft and should wrap up in the late morning (Pacific time). Once aboard the Ronald Reagan, the 35,000 pounds of supplies will be repackaged into smaller loads and flown to Carnival Splendor on the carrier's helicopters this afternoon.
Original article and updates
Carnival Splendor Update from Coast Guard - 7am
Updated- 9am eastern
The ordeal for passengers and crew aboard Carnival Splendor is not now likely to be over until later on Wednesday, according to Coast Guard spokesperson Lt Chris Johns. Johns is aboard the US Coast Guard Cutter Morgenthau, which arrived on the scene at approximately 1:00 am (Pacific time).
Carnival Splendor is currently about 80 nautical miles west of Baja California and about 90 miles away from Ensenada.
Johns said the master of Carnival Splendor has told the Coast Guard that the ship is still operating only with their auxiliary generator which is powering all navigation equipment, emergency detection and suppression systems and basic systems such as sewage and water. There is still no propulsion. There was no structural damage to the vessel from the fire, and there is no flooding.
(Update 9am eastern time - Carnival reports that last night the ship’s engineers were able to restore toilet service to all cabins and public bathrooms, as well as cold running water. They are continuing to work to restore other services.)
They are expecting the arrival of two oceangoing tugs from Ensenada late this morning which will tow Carnival Splendor the 90 miles back to Ensenada, where arrangements are being made for passengers to return home. Johns said once the two begins it will take about 24 hours to cover the distance to Ensenada, but as of now, this appears to be the safest way to get the passengers to land.
Original article and updates
The ordeal for passengers and crew aboard Carnival Splendor is not now likely to be over until later on Wednesday, according to Coast Guard spokesperson Lt Chris Johns. Johns is aboard the US Coast Guard Cutter Morgenthau, which arrived on the scene at approximately 1:00 am (Pacific time).
Carnival Splendor is currently about 80 nautical miles west of Baja California and about 90 miles away from Ensenada.
Johns said the master of Carnival Splendor has told the Coast Guard that the ship is still operating only with their auxiliary generator which is powering all navigation equipment, emergency detection and suppression systems and basic systems such as sewage and water. There is still no propulsion. There was no structural damage to the vessel from the fire, and there is no flooding.
(Update 9am eastern time - Carnival reports that last night the ship’s engineers were able to restore toilet service to all cabins and public bathrooms, as well as cold running water. They are continuing to work to restore other services.)
They are expecting the arrival of two oceangoing tugs from Ensenada late this morning which will tow Carnival Splendor the 90 miles back to Ensenada, where arrangements are being made for passengers to return home. Johns said once the two begins it will take about 24 hours to cover the distance to Ensenada, but as of now, this appears to be the safest way to get the passengers to land.
Original article and updates
Monday, November 8, 2010
Update on Carnival Splendor - Tugs en route
Carnival has dispatched tugboats to Carnival Splendor's location to tow the ship to Ensenada. Engineers have been unable to restart the ship's main generators (and therefore, propulsion system) since this morning's fire.
They are still working to restore at least enough power to operate some key hotel systems including air conditioning, hot food service, flushing toilets and telephones. None are presently working. Bottled water and cold food is being provided on deck.
Passengers will receive a full refund for the cruise and transportation costs. They will also receive a complimentary future cruise equal to the amount paid for this voyage.
Original article and later updates
They are still working to restore at least enough power to operate some key hotel systems including air conditioning, hot food service, flushing toilets and telephones. None are presently working. Bottled water and cold food is being provided on deck.
Passengers will receive a full refund for the cruise and transportation costs. They will also receive a complimentary future cruise equal to the amount paid for this voyage.
Original article and later updates
Fire Disables Carnival Splendor
At 6:00 am this morning (Pacific time), a fire was reported in the aft engine room of Carnival Splendor while it was en route from Long Beach to Puerto Vallarta. The US Coast Guard reports that the fire was extinguished by the ship's fire crew at 9:10am, but the ship still has only emergency power this evening. There were no injuries to passengers or crew.
The ship is safe, but Carnival has canceled the rest of the voyage.
Carnival Splendor is currently 55 miles west of Punta San Jacinto, Mexico, about 150 miles south of San Diego. Sea conditions are currently calm.
A 965-foot container ship, Dresden Express, responded to Carnival Splendor's emergency call and was first on the scene. The US Coast Guard responded with a C-130 aircraft which arrived on the scene about 3pm. Three US Coast Guard cutters will arrive at approximately 7:00pm (Pacific time). The Mexican navy responded with a 140-foot patrol boat and an aircraft.
Engineers are working to restore power. If the propulsion system can be restored, Carnival Splendor will return to its home port of Long Beach under its own power. Carnival has tugboats standing by to assist the ship to port if power cannot be restored.
Carnival has established a phone number to provide information to family members. That number is 1-888-290-5095 or 305-406-5534.
All updates
The ship is safe, but Carnival has canceled the rest of the voyage.
Carnival Splendor is currently 55 miles west of Punta San Jacinto, Mexico, about 150 miles south of San Diego. Sea conditions are currently calm.
A 965-foot container ship, Dresden Express, responded to Carnival Splendor's emergency call and was first on the scene. The US Coast Guard responded with a C-130 aircraft which arrived on the scene about 3pm. Three US Coast Guard cutters will arrive at approximately 7:00pm (Pacific time). The Mexican navy responded with a 140-foot patrol boat and an aircraft.
Engineers are working to restore power. If the propulsion system can be restored, Carnival Splendor will return to its home port of Long Beach under its own power. Carnival has tugboats standing by to assist the ship to port if power cannot be restored.
Carnival has established a phone number to provide information to family members. That number is 1-888-290-5095 or 305-406-5534.
All updates
Friday, November 5, 2010
Forecast for Next Winter: Warm & Sunny with 5 Princess Ships in the Caribbean
This year's Caribbean season is just getting underway, but Princess is already looking ahead to next year. The line has just opened their winter 2011-2012 Caribbean program, including a totally new 7-day itinerary.
Details were in the November 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details were in the November 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Business Is Good at Seabourn
How was your October? Did you have a good month? Seabourn certainly did.
The luxury line took more bookings last month than in any other month in the company's history. Net bookings for October 2010 were 166% more than in October 2009.
At the same time, however, there have been large capacity increases, so the line has to be posting large increases to remain healthy.
The complete story appeared in the November 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The luxury line took more bookings last month than in any other month in the company's history. Net bookings for October 2010 were 166% more than in October 2009.
At the same time, however, there have been large capacity increases, so the line has to be posting large increases to remain healthy.
The complete story appeared in the November 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Cunard's exclusive club, Sourcing for passengers on Oasis & Allure, Growth in Baltimore, Shrinkage in Malta, New photos from Allure
CND subscribers also read about an exclusive club that meets aboard Queen Elizabeth ... where passengers are coming from for Oasis & Allure ... steady cruise passenger growth in Baltimore ... sudden shrinkage at Malta ... and latest photos from Allure.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the November 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily..
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the November 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily..
Thursday, November 4, 2010
New Name for a New Ship
Earlier this week we reported the assembly phase had begun for the third of MSC’s Fantasia-class vessels. Today, it became official with the traditional welding of a coin to the ship’s keel in a traditional ceremony.
MSC used the ceremony to make a couple of announcements, including a new name for the ship.
The ship will now be named MSC Divina, and it will be named in the port of Marseille in May 2012.
This is the coin that was welded to MSC Divina's keel at the STX Europe shipyard in Saint Nazaire (France). It has the MSC logo on one side, and the coat of arms of the city of Marseille on the other.
Shown at the ceremony (left to right) are Mr Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO of MSC Cruises, Ms Dominique Vlasto, Deputy Mayor of Marseilles with responsibility for tourism, and Jacques Hardelay, General Manager of STX France.
The complete story appeared in the November 4, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
MSC used the ceremony to make a couple of announcements, including a new name for the ship.
The ship will now be named MSC Divina, and it will be named in the port of Marseille in May 2012.
This is the coin that was welded to MSC Divina's keel at the STX Europe shipyard in Saint Nazaire (France). It has the MSC logo on one side, and the coat of arms of the city of Marseille on the other.
Shown at the ceremony (left to right) are Mr Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO of MSC Cruises, Ms Dominique Vlasto, Deputy Mayor of Marseilles with responsibility for tourism, and Jacques Hardelay, General Manager of STX France.
The complete story appeared in the November 4, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
STX layoffs, Venice comes to aid of Delphin's crew, Nassau merchants excited about a hurricane, and Allure tests Shrek
CND subscribers also read about layoffs STX in the wake of Allure's delivery ... what some employees will do for Cunard ... an update on the Delphin, now in trouble again and the Port of Venice coming to the aid of the crew ... why merchants in Nassau are excited about a hurricane ... and "stress testing" the Dreamworks characters on Allure.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the November 4, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the November 4, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The Inexpensive Way to Cross the Atlantic on QM2
Are you sailing to Southampton this week? A lot of Facebook users are, but they're never leaving their computer screens to do it.
Cunard had a fun low-tech idea that's playing out this week on their Facebook page. It seems to be aimed at people who have never crossed the Atlantic on Queen Mary 2, Cunard's signature route, and people who have and want to relive the experience.
The complete article appeared in the November 3, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Cunard had a fun low-tech idea that's playing out this week on their Facebook page. It seems to be aimed at people who have never crossed the Atlantic on Queen Mary 2, Cunard's signature route, and people who have and want to relive the experience.
The complete article appeared in the November 3, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Crossing the Atlantic on Allure, St Lucia recovering, Setback for Cuba's cruise industry
CND subscribers also read about Lisa Bauer's first-hand account of crossing the Atlantic on Allure of the Seas ... St. Lucia recovering from Hurricane Tomas ... and another setback for cruise tourism in Cuba.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the November 3, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the November 3, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
A Little Less Mexico
The Mexican Riviera market has been suffering from a combination of too much capacity and the local (drive) market's boredom with ports. Some cruise lines have responded by reducing capacity.
Crystal, however, seems to be the only line responding by trying new itineraries out of Southern California. The line replaced two fall 2011 Mexican Riviera sailings with California coastal sailings. The line did the same with two spring 2011 sailings, and those are selling well.
The complete article appeared in the November 2, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Crystal, however, seems to be the only line responding by trying new itineraries out of Southern California. The line replaced two fall 2011 Mexican Riviera sailings with California coastal sailings. The line did the same with two spring 2011 sailings, and those are selling well.
The complete article appeared in the November 2, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Princess Essential Experiences, MSC next ship, California crackdown, Medevac from Carnival Splendor, Big payoff for CBP
CND subscribers also read about Princess' latest essential experience ... assembly of MSC's next ship beginning at the STX yard in Saint Nazaire ... cruise lines being placed in a dubious group by the State of California ... another medevac from Carnival Splendor ... and a random search pays off for US Customs and Border Protection.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the November 2, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the November 2, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily
Monday, November 1, 2010
MSC Yacht Club Gets Even More Exclusive
You wouldn't think it's possible, but the Yacht Club aboard MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida just got more exclusive.
The Yacht Club is the "ship within a ship" for passengers booking suites on MSC's two 133,500-ton vessels.
The complete article appeared in the November 1, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The Yacht Club is the "ship within a ship" for passengers booking suites on MSC's two 133,500-ton vessels.
The complete article appeared in the November 1, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Video of Allure of the Seas Passing Under Storebaelt Bridge
Yesterday, with just inches to spare, Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Allure of the Seas passed under Denmark's Storebaelt Bridge (Great Belt Bridge) on its way from the shipyard in Finland to its new home port in Ft. Lauderdale.
The video below shows the retractable stack being lowered, an aerial view of the passage, and some close up views going under the bridge.
The video below shows the retractable stack being lowered, an aerial view of the passage, and some close up views going under the bridge.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Meyer Werft floats out Disney Dream
Disney Dream floated out of the covered building dock this evening at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany. At 128,000 gross tons, it is the largest ship ever built by the yard. The ship is scheduled to leave the yard in two weeks for sea trials. It will enter service at Port Canaveral on January 26, 2011. Additional photosThe complete story appeared in the November 1, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Allure of the Seas Clears Storebaelt Bridge
Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Allure of the Seas, passed a noteworthy milestone on its way from the shipyard in Finland to its home port in Ft. Lauderdale. It is shown here passing under Denmark's the Storebaelt Bridge (Great Belt Bridge) which has exactly 65 meters of clearance. Allure retracted its funnel to help fit under the bridge. With the funnel retracted, and in its normal cruising configuration, it is exactly 65 meters high. To provide a margin of safety for additional clearance, the ship took on extra ballast water so it would ride lower in the water for this part of the journey.
The retractable funnel (which only goes down about meter) had to be built in specifically to help the ship clear this bridge. There is nowhere else Allure will sail where clearance is this critical.
Update: October 31 - Video
Details appeared in the November 1, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Full Circle in Turku
Allure of the Seas left the STX shipyard at Turku this morning bound for its home port in Ft. Lauderdale, where it is scheduled to arrive 13 days from now.
In a way, it kind of wraps up the story that began at that same shipyard 40 years ago.
In this Cruise News Daily article, which appeared in the October 29, 2010, edition, we look briefly at the contrasts between Royal Caribbean's first ship and its latest, the future of the yard, and what the line is saying about its future newbuilds.
In a way, it kind of wraps up the story that began at that same shipyard 40 years ago.
In this Cruise News Daily article, which appeared in the October 29, 2010, edition, we look briefly at the contrasts between Royal Caribbean's first ship and its latest, the future of the yard, and what the line is saying about its future newbuilds.
Holland America to Close Office - Getting Paid to Stay Home
Did you know Seattle-based Holland America Line has a reservation office in Williston, North Dakota? Don't highlight it on your map in ink, because at the end of next month they are closing it, but they will still have about forty reservation agents in Williston.
The complete story appeared in the October 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The complete story appeared in the October 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Port Everglades breaks its record, P&O passengers go free, "Explosive" issue in Seattle
CND subscribers also read about Port Everglades' record-breaking year ... a new free service for P&O passengers ... and an "explosive" issue in Seattle.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Allure of the Seas Sails from Yard
Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas left the STX Europe yard in Turku, Finland, this morning for its home port in Ft. Lauderdale. The crossing is scheduled to take 13 days. Note that the retractable funnels seem to be down in anticipation of passing under the Great Belt Bridge tonight.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The backstory to Queen Elizabeth's history coming alive
Cunard is a line of history. The line proudly traces its roots, and each ship they build is filled with reminders of that history.
They also fill their ships with beautiful art - all types of artwork. There are massive works as well as small and exquisite ones. There are traditional and more contemporary pieces. There are serious and traditional subjects and more whimsical ones. Cunard invests what most people would consider a fortune in these.
Aboard the new Queen Elizabeth, surprisingly, one of the displays that's getting the most attention from passengers was one of the least expensive. And this is its (creepy) backstory.
The complete story appeared in the October 28, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
They also fill their ships with beautiful art - all types of artwork. There are massive works as well as small and exquisite ones. There are traditional and more contemporary pieces. There are serious and traditional subjects and more whimsical ones. Cunard invests what most people would consider a fortune in these.
Aboard the new Queen Elizabeth, surprisingly, one of the displays that's getting the most attention from passengers was one of the least expensive. And this is its (creepy) backstory.
The complete story appeared in the October 28, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Allure of the Seas Handed Over
STX Europe delivered Allure of the Seas to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd this morning at its Turku Finland Yard.
The ship will depart on Friday for its home port at Ft. Lauderdale.
Shown above are the ship's main engine room and the Boardwalk area. Larger versions and additional photos.
Details appeared in the October 28, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Port Everglades' Secret Weapon
If someone tells you that their cruise leaves from "Florida," these days more often than not they will really be sailing from Port Everglades. The Broward County port at Ft. Lauderdale is on track to become the world's largest cruise port any day now. Each year, for many years in a row, they not only break their volume record from the year before, but there are at least a couple dates in the season where they either break their all-time record for number of passengers handled in one day or they flirt with the record.
Passengers are really happy with the port. It's easily accessible from the airport and from highways. Parking is convenient, and there are even offsite options. The terminals are modern and filled with passenger conveniences. Even more important, the cruise lines are all happy working with the port, and they show it by bringing more and more ships there.
How is it that Port Everglades keeps everyone so happy? It's because they have a secret weapon no other port has.
The complete article appeared in the October 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Passengers are really happy with the port. It's easily accessible from the airport and from highways. Parking is convenient, and there are even offsite options. The terminals are modern and filled with passenger conveniences. Even more important, the cruise lines are all happy working with the port, and they show it by bringing more and more ships there.
How is it that Port Everglades keeps everyone so happy? It's because they have a secret weapon no other port has.
The complete article appeared in the October 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Starbucks goes to sea, Portland expands, Birthday offer from MSC
CND subscribers also read about Starbucks going to sea for the first time aboard Allure of the Sea ... Portland, Maine, ready to expand ... and MSC making birthday wishes come true.
Details of these items appeared int the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared int the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
P&O Australia Cancels Pacific Jewel Sailings - Taking it right to the customers
P&O Australia canceled two additional sailings of Pacific Jewel today. CEO Ann Sherry took to You Tube to explain the situation to customers.
While the message will be upsetting to the customers who are affected, we expect they will feel better about it having heard the CEO tell them, we are to presume in her own words, what went into the decision and an apology.
With cruise lines trying to figure out how to embrace social media (and the internet), we look for this to be something you are going to see used a lot in the future. P&O Australia should be congratulated for being the first.
The complete article appeared in the October 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
While the message will be upsetting to the customers who are affected, we expect they will feel better about it having heard the CEO tell them, we are to presume in her own words, what went into the decision and an apology.
With cruise lines trying to figure out how to embrace social media (and the internet), we look for this to be something you are going to see used a lot in the future. P&O Australia should be congratulated for being the first.
The complete article appeared in the October 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
The Curtain Rises - Disney Reveals Musical Shows
Disney is an entertainment company, and they are big on imagination, so one of the most anticipated announcements about Disney Dream has been the one that describes the production shows that will be aboard when the ship enters service in January. And today that day came.
The complete article appeared in the October 26, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The complete article appeared in the October 26, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
STX Turku, NCL readies IPO, St. Thomas delays, Celebration Cruise Line's first winner, American Safari goes to Hawaii, an exceptional offer from MSC
CND subscribers read about a lifesaver for STX Turku ... NCL's IPO ... late arrivals in St. Thomas caused by the pilot boat crews not showing up for work ... a $10,000 winner every month aboard Celebration Cruise Line ... NCL gets some competition in Hawaii as American Safari schedules 7-day itineraries ... an exceptional offer from MSC where you buy one cruise and get another free.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 26, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 26, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Monday, October 25, 2010
The Announcement You Knew Would Come - NCL Orders Two Vessels from Meyer Werft
By Norwegian Cruise Lines' own admission today, it was a poorly-kept secret, but they have ordered two new ships from Meyer Werft. As far back as June, Meyer's CEO Bernard Meyer was seen with NCL CEO Kevin Sheehan aboard Norwegian Epic during its introduction, and even before that there was talk in the industry of NCL shopping yards for a rumored order.
So today, NCL made it official that they have sealed the deal with Meyer for two ships of a new class, slightly smaller than Norwegian Epic, for delivery in April 2013 and the spring of 2014.
The complete article appeared in the October 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
So today, NCL made it official that they have sealed the deal with Meyer for two ships of a new class, slightly smaller than Norwegian Epic, for delivery in April 2013 and the spring of 2014.
The complete article appeared in the October 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
HAL's New Dining Option to Run "Cirque-les" around the Competition
With upscale dining options such as Chef's Tables all the rage on mass market and premium lines, Holland America Line seems to have found a new one that will supplement those they already have.
The line has entered into an exclusive agreement with Le Cirque restaurants to bring the establishment's cuisine and experience aboard the Holland America fleet. It will be offered at least once each cruise in the Pinnacle restaurant.
Details appeared in the October 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The line has entered into an exclusive agreement with Le Cirque restaurants to bring the establishment's cuisine and experience aboard the Holland America fleet. It will be offered at least once each cruise in the Pinnacle restaurant.
Details appeared in the October 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Celebrity Century Repairs Completed
Repairs of Celebrity Century's rudders were completed on schedule over the weekend at the Chantier Naval de Marseille shipyard in Marseilles, and the ship departed for Barcelona after midnight (Monday morning). Boarding in Barcelona was delayed from the original schedule, and the ship departed just after 11:30pm on October 25, but the delay will not affect the itinerary.
The complete article appeared in the October 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The complete article appeared in the October 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Celebrity Century Rudder Repair Nearing Completion
Both of Celebrity Century's rudders were reinstalled last night at the Chantier Naval de Marseille shipyard. Celebrity says the repair work is proceeding according to their schedule to return the ship to service for Monday's sailing from Barcelona.
The drydock is to be flooded later today, and sailing from Marseilles is planned for midnight.
Passengers aboard the October 25 sailing should proceed to Barcelona as scheduled.
The drydock is to be flooded later today, and sailing from Marseilles is planned for midnight.
Passengers aboard the October 25 sailing should proceed to Barcelona as scheduled.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Celebrity Century almost ready for rudders to be reinstalled
Celebrity Cruises reports the work to repair Celebrity Century's rudder issue continues to go smoothly and on schedule at the yard at Marseilles. As you can see in this photo taken this morning, the rudder is currently off the ship. (Click photo for larger view.) The drydock schedule calls for the rudders to be reinstalled tonight. Celebrity says passengers scheduled to board the ship on Monday at Barcelona should proceed to the city, as they expect the ship to arrive on time for departure on October 25.
Go to October 24 update
Friday, October 22, 2010
Back to School in Haiti - Royal Caribbean Opens a School
After the earthquake struck Haiti in January, Royal Caribbean quickly resumed calls at its private beach resort on the island's north shore at Labadee. Even though they were getting hammered by the general media at large which tried to paint an inaccurate picture of rich passengers frolicking on the beach with the destruction of the quake a few yards away on the other side of a fence surrounding the property, RCCL stayed the course and continued calls in Haiti because they knew that, as a large employer in Haiti, jobs were exactly what the country needed. In reality, the effects of the quake were many miles away in an area around Port au Prince, and in addition to bringing passengers, Royal Caribbean ships also brought more then 3,000 pallets of relief supplies to Labadee that would be transported to the needy areas in the south of the country.
Cruise lines do a lot of charitable work, especially in their ports of call, and most of it is never noticed by the media or their customers. It comes in cash and goods. Five thousand dollars here for some community project, ten thousand there for a school's new basketball court, five hundred used television sets for charities in another port. And sometimes, something exceptional comes along, and we especially like to highlight those, and RCCL just donated something to the people of Haiti, which will continue giving to them for generations.
The complete article appeared in the October 22, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Cruise lines do a lot of charitable work, especially in their ports of call, and most of it is never noticed by the media or their customers. It comes in cash and goods. Five thousand dollars here for some community project, ten thousand there for a school's new basketball court, five hundred used television sets for charities in another port. And sometimes, something exceptional comes along, and we especially like to highlight those, and RCCL just donated something to the people of Haiti, which will continue giving to them for generations.
The complete article appeared in the October 22, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Cruise study in Savannah, New fees in the BVI, What Cuba's missing, Seattle cruise record
CND subscribers read about Savannah's study of the cruise industry, and what they didn't find out ... updates on Celebrity Century's emergency drydock ... what the British Virgin Island's don't seem to realize about dealing with cruise lines ... new estimates by the cruise industry of what Cuba's missing ... and a record-breaking cruise season in Seattle.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 22, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 22, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Celebrity Century Now Truly a Ship without a Rudder
Work continues on Celebrity Century in the Chantier Naval de Marseille shipyard at Marseilles. The emergency drydock was necessitated by a rudder problem, and in this photo taken today, you can see that the rudders have now been removed. (Click the photo for a larger view.)Celebrity again said the work remains on schedule to have the ship back in service for the next cruise on October 25. They again said passengers on that sailing should proceed to Barcelona, and if anything unforeseen delays the ship's arrival in Barcelona, Celebrity will provide accommodations and cover incidental expenses on land until passengers can board the ship.
Go to October 23 update
Thursday, October 21, 2010
I Don't Wanna Go
Beginning with sailings departing January 1 and after, no matter what kind of offbeat hard-luck story you come up with, Carnival is going to let you reschedule your cruise (for only a small fee). Carnival Cruise Lines has joined the ranks of lines offering a "cancel for any reason" travel protection plan.
Details appeared in the October 21, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details appeared in the October 21, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Cruise West Gets Some Cash
InnerSea Discoveries has purchased some of Cruise West's assets, but if Cruise West owes you money, you probably shouldn't get excited, nor should anyone look for the revival of the defunct cruise line.
On the other hand, if you are a past passenger of the line, you may look forward to some new brochures coming your way.
In this article, which appeared in the October 21, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily, we look at what InnerSea Discoveries bought, and why creditors (and customers owed refunds) shouldn't expect to see any money.
On the other hand, if you are a past passenger of the line, you may look forward to some new brochures coming your way.
In this article, which appeared in the October 21, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily, we look at what InnerSea Discoveries bought, and why creditors (and customers owed refunds) shouldn't expect to see any money.
The end of Ocean Village, Windstar in the garment business, Perfect score for Costa Atlantica
CND subscribers read about the end of the line for Carnival's Ocean Village brand ... another update on the repairs to Celebrity Century ... Windstar getting into the garment business ... and a perfect score for Costa Atlantica on its US sanitation test.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 21, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 21, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Celebrity Century Repairs Proceeding as Planned
Celebrity Cruises reports that Celebrity Century has moved into the drydock at the Chantier Naval de Marseille shipyard at Marseilles and is out of the water. The line says repairs are still proceeding as planned and reiterated that everything is on schedule to return the ship to service with the October 25 sailing. They again said passengers on that sailing should proceed to Barcelona, and if for some unforeseen reason the ship should not be ready on time, they will cover accommodations costs and expenses in Barcelona until passengers can board the ship. (Click the photo for a larger view.)Go to October 22 update
This story appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 21, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Miami Again #1 Cruise Port - For Now
The Port of Miami reports a record-breaking year last year for the number of cruise passengers passing through the port. And again, it was a world's record.
While there are champagne corks popping in Miami, toasting the string of three years in a row with number-one cruise port honors, they also have to be looking over their shoulder at their neighbor to the north, Port Everglades which would seem poised to slide into the number-one spot.
In this article, which appeared in the October 20, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily, we take a look at Miami's accomplishment this year, what may have helped them, and what could hurt their chances of staying in the number-one spot next year.
While there are champagne corks popping in Miami, toasting the string of three years in a row with number-one cruise port honors, they also have to be looking over their shoulder at their neighbor to the north, Port Everglades which would seem poised to slide into the number-one spot.
In this article, which appeared in the October 20, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily, we take a look at Miami's accomplishment this year, what may have helped them, and what could hurt their chances of staying in the number-one spot next year.
Celebrity Century to drydock, New tax in Venice, Headlines about norovirus, Renovations in Boston, Bedbug-free ships
CND subscribers read about Celebrity Century being moved into drydock for repairs to its rudders ... an update on the collision of Costa Classica ... a new tax on visitors to Venice ... a very few cases of norovirus on Caribbean Princess generating a lot of headlines when the ship arrived in eastern Canada ... Boston opening their newly refurbished Black Falcon Cruise Terminal ... and a new product to keep the bed on your cruise ship free of bed bugs.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 20, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 20, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
New Video of Damage to Costa Classica
When Costa Classica collided with the Belgian-flagged cargo vessel Lowlands Longevity on Monday in Shanghai, it opened a 60-foot gash in the cruise ship. Now we have the first video of the damage from Chinese television. While the report is in Chinese, you don't have to speak it to see the extent of the damage in the video.
The Shanghai Daily reports that the ship was taken to a local shipyard for repairs Monday afternoon, which the line expects to be completed in four days.
The Shanghai Daily reports that the ship was taken to a local shipyard for repairs Monday afternoon, which the line expects to be completed in four days.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Time for the Single Traveler to Cash in at Silversea
By the plethora of offers on just about every sailing, it's easy to see that the luxury end of the industry is working hard to fill their ships.
That abundance of space is finally giving a break to one segment of the market who seldom gets a break: the single traveler.
The complete article appeared in the October 19, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
That abundance of space is finally giving a break to one segment of the market who seldom gets a break: the single traveler.
The complete article appeared in the October 19, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Legend of the Seas to the Rescue
Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas, may be out of sight and out of mind to most Americans since it is sailing in the Far East, primarily carrying passengers from Asian markets, but it won't be forgotten by at least three of the crew members from the Xin Yi cargo vessel.
Last night, while sailing in the Taiwan Strait at 10:23pm, Legend of the Seas heard a distress call from the Xin Yi, and immediately changed course for its nearby location. The cargo vessel was sinking in heavy seas with 22 crew members aboard, and Legend was the nearest ship.
Details appeared in the October 19, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Last night, while sailing in the Taiwan Strait at 10:23pm, Legend of the Seas heard a distress call from the Xin Yi, and immediately changed course for its nearby location. The cargo vessel was sinking in heavy seas with 22 crew members aboard, and Legend was the nearest ship.
Details appeared in the October 19, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Carnival pays dividend, new version of SS France, a new entry in Princess' blog, and HAL training
CND subscribers read about Carnival declaring a dividend ... a new version of the SS France ... an unusual entry by Princess' president in their new blog ... and when a swimming pool isn't for sunning and swimming on Holland America.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 19, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 19, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Will Le France Sail Again?
A French firm is trying to get an updated version of the SS France built, and they have released a new concept video.
The new ship will feature everything French, and be relatively small by today's standards. If it ends up being built, it will have the following features:
* Modern design combining finesse of lines and open space.
* 260m long, approximately 550 passengers : far from the race to make ships of behemoth proportions, the new France is a large ship but limited to provide comfort and well-being.
* A long hull will receive two chimney-shaped super-structures in honor of the old France : each will house spacious living areas, restaurants and salons dedicated to well-being and relaxation.
* Between these two chimneys, a tropical palm-tree garden will spread over 1 500 square meters, as if a cruise on the France were an island vacation.
* Endowed with the latest technology available, the France will also be a "green" ship, will consume less energy and the shape of her berth will allow precise control of the energy used for navigation.
* The bow of the ship was designed to re-create proximity between passengers and the sea : the decks stack to end in a large beach where nautical activities can be practiced.
* A cruise program of new and original destinations.
The project's website is located at http://www.reconstruirelefrance.com/en
The new ship will feature everything French, and be relatively small by today's standards. If it ends up being built, it will have the following features:
* Modern design combining finesse of lines and open space.
* 260m long, approximately 550 passengers : far from the race to make ships of behemoth proportions, the new France is a large ship but limited to provide comfort and well-being.
* A long hull will receive two chimney-shaped super-structures in honor of the old France : each will house spacious living areas, restaurants and salons dedicated to well-being and relaxation.
* Between these two chimneys, a tropical palm-tree garden will spread over 1 500 square meters, as if a cruise on the France were an island vacation.
* Endowed with the latest technology available, the France will also be a "green" ship, will consume less energy and the shape of her berth will allow precise control of the energy used for navigation.
* The bow of the ship was designed to re-create proximity between passengers and the sea : the decks stack to end in a large beach where nautical activities can be practiced.
* A cruise program of new and original destinations.
The project's website is located at http://www.reconstruirelefrance.com/en
Monday, October 18, 2010
Costa Classica Collides with Cargo Vessel
This morning as Costa Classica was returning to Shanghai at the end of a 4-night cruise and collided with the Belgian-flagged Lowlands Longevity cargo ship, damaging the 53,000-ton cruise ship's starboard superstructure at Deck 5, according to Costa. Local news reports say the collision, at the mouth of the Yangtze River, opened about a 60-foot gash, and passengers say water washed into the ship's lower decks through broken portholes.
Details of this incident, and an earlier incident aboard the same sailing, appeared in October 18, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of this incident, and an earlier incident aboard the same sailing, appeared in October 18, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Disney Sets Date for Expansion to Four Ships
Disney set the date today for Disney Fantasy's maiden voyage and released partial details of the 2012 fleet deployment.
Disney's second new ship of the two-ship order from Meyer Werft, Disney Fantasy, will enter service on April 7, 2012 with 7-day Caribbean cruises.
In this CND article, we also looked at the rest of the initial 2012 schedule and had some observations on the implications. The entire article appeared in the October 18, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Disney's second new ship of the two-ship order from Meyer Werft, Disney Fantasy, will enter service on April 7, 2012 with 7-day Caribbean cruises.
In this CND article, we also looked at the rest of the initial 2012 schedule and had some observations on the implications. The entire article appeared in the October 18, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Costa Classica loses passengers, Pacific Jewel cancels sailing, Update on Celebrity Century, Medevac from Osterdam, and Carnival's "bucket list"
CND subscribers read about an additional problem on Costa Classica's last cruise where Chinese passengers illegally remained behind in South Korea ... Pacific Jewel canceling an additional voyage for repairs to the ship's propulsion system ... an update from the yard on Celebrity Century's emergency repairs to its rudders ... a medevac from Holland America's Oosterdam (shown above) ... and Carnival's "bucket list." Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 18, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Celebrity Century Cancels Current Cruise
Like a Ship without a Rudder
Instead of cruising along the coast of Italy, tonight Celebrity Century is sitting at Villefranche waiting for its appointment in a drydock.
Damage to the rudder has caused Celebrity Cruises to cancel the current cruise for an unscheduled drydock.
Details appeared in the October 15, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Instead of cruising along the coast of Italy, tonight Celebrity Century is sitting at Villefranche waiting for its appointment in a drydock.
Damage to the rudder has caused Celebrity Cruises to cancel the current cruise for an unscheduled drydock.
Details appeared in the October 15, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Lines Cancel Calls at Falmouth Jamaica
Not Ready for Prime Time
Back in August we told readers local reports from Jamaica were telling us the new port of Falmouth was seriously behind schedule and it didn't look to be anywhere near ready for the first cruise ship passengers scheduled to arrive in November. Cruise lines are now agreeing, and the lines planning to call there before the first of the year are now making alternate plans - at least until January. The first Oasis-class ships, for which the port was primarily built, aren't scheduled to arrive until March.
The complete article appeared in the October 15, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Back in August we told readers local reports from Jamaica were telling us the new port of Falmouth was seriously behind schedule and it didn't look to be anywhere near ready for the first cruise ship passengers scheduled to arrive in November. Cruise lines are now agreeing, and the lines planning to call there before the first of the year are now making alternate plans - at least until January. The first Oasis-class ships, for which the port was primarily built, aren't scheduled to arrive until March.
The complete article appeared in the October 15, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Tide Is Turning in Alaska - Carnival Corp's Princess Adds Capacity
Princess Cruises had a bit of good news for the folks in Alaska today. They are increasing their Alaskan fleet by one ship in 2012.
The news gets even better for the state because it will be one of their larger ships placed on the one way itinerary between Vancouver and Whittier. That will be an extra boost for the state's economy since most passengers taking this itinerary spend time inland in Alaska before or after the cruise, most of which also supports the extensive Princess ground operation, which has also been sagging due to the reduced cruise capacity.
The complete article appeared in the October 14, 2010, issue of Cruise News Daily.
The news gets even better for the state because it will be one of their larger ships placed on the one way itinerary between Vancouver and Whittier. That will be an extra boost for the state's economy since most passengers taking this itinerary spend time inland in Alaska before or after the cruise, most of which also supports the extensive Princess ground operation, which has also been sagging due to the reduced cruise capacity.
The complete article appeared in the October 14, 2010, issue of Cruise News Daily.
Carnival Splendor Loses Crew Member
Crew members aboard Carnival Splendor witnessed another crew member jumping overboard from the ship about 1:00am on Wednesday morning while the ship was en route to Puerto Vallarta.
Details appeared in the October 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details appeared in the October 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Carnival Magic Floats, Waterskiing with AIDAbella, and Passenger Overboard
CND subscribers also read about Carnival Magic's float out ... a new record for AIDAbella ... and a passenger overboard off the coast of France. Details appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
A Wet Record for AIDAbella
AIDAbella assisted in breaking a record earlier this month, but we're not quite sure why anyone would want to hold this record.
The 68,500-ton AIDAbella is now the largest ship every to pull a waterskier (certified by Guinness). Jan Schwiderek, a reporter for the German TV show "Galileo," was towed behind the cruise ship for six minutes and 25 seconds at a speed of 14 knots earlier this month (shown below).
Using a "flying start," Schwiderek stepped onto his skis from a speedboat driving at full throttle in the Bay of Alicante. The early-morning feat was videotaped and will appear on the German TV show later this month.
The cruise passengers watching the spectacle from the outside decks were amazed. "I've never witnessed anything like this before as a captain," said AIDA Captain Josef Husmann. "It's absolutely fantastic that we actually brought it off."
AIDA is a brand of Carnival Corp which markets only in German-speaking countries.
This story appeared in the October 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The 68,500-ton AIDAbella is now the largest ship every to pull a waterskier (certified by Guinness). Jan Schwiderek, a reporter for the German TV show "Galileo," was towed behind the cruise ship for six minutes and 25 seconds at a speed of 14 knots earlier this month (shown below).
Using a "flying start," Schwiderek stepped onto his skis from a speedboat driving at full throttle in the Bay of Alicante. The early-morning feat was videotaped and will appear on the German TV show later this month.
The cruise passengers watching the spectacle from the outside decks were amazed. "I've never witnessed anything like this before as a captain," said AIDA Captain Josef Husmann. "It's absolutely fantastic that we actually brought it off."
AIDA is a brand of Carnival Corp which markets only in German-speaking countries.
This story appeared in the October 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
HAL to Prove Many Chefs Don't Spoil the Broth
Most cruise lines have a top chef in charge of designing their menus and creating signature dishes. Holland America Line has had Master Chef Rudi Sodamin in that for several years.
Now he'll be taking on an expanded role as in a new initiative, the line's Culinary Council, which will enhance all aspects of their shipboard culinary operations.
Details were in the October 13, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Now he'll be taking on an expanded role as in a new initiative, the line's Culinary Council, which will enhance all aspects of their shipboard culinary operations.
Details were in the October 13, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Hurricane Paula Changes Itineraries
Hurricane Paula formed in the western Caribbean and this week is affecting ships planning midweek calls at Yucatan ports.
Carnival, Celebrity and Holland America are all reporting itinerary changes to avoid the storm.
Details appeared in the October 13, 2010, issue of Cruise News Daily.
Carnival, Celebrity and Holland America are all reporting itinerary changes to avoid the storm.
Details appeared in the October 13, 2010, issue of Cruise News Daily.
Birthday Party to the Max
Pop art icon Peter Max will be celebrating his birthday next week aboard Celebrity Solstice.
The line will use the occasion to have a special party, a charity auction, and to roll out a new customized art option with Peter Max.
Details were in the October 13, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The line will use the occasion to have a special party, a charity auction, and to roll out a new customized art option with Peter Max.
Details were in the October 13, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
The Naming of a Queen
It has been said that there are christenings and then there are Cunard christenings. And yesterday Cunard had a christening.
On Sunday, describing what would happen in Monday's naming ceremony for Queen Elizabeth, Cunard president Peter Shanks said, "My job is to make sure the hair on the back of your neck stands on end."
To accomplish that he rallied all the pageantry and splendor the British company could muster. In this CND article we look at how he accomplished it and what he says the new ship's role will be. We have other things on our blog we heard and saw at the weekend's event that you probably didn't read elsewhere.
The complete article appeared in the October 12, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
On Sunday, describing what would happen in Monday's naming ceremony for Queen Elizabeth, Cunard president Peter Shanks said, "My job is to make sure the hair on the back of your neck stands on end."
To accomplish that he rallied all the pageantry and splendor the British company could muster. In this CND article we look at how he accomplished it and what he says the new ship's role will be. We have other things on our blog we heard and saw at the weekend's event that you probably didn't read elsewhere.
The complete article appeared in the October 12, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
More "Solsticizing" for the Rest of the Celebrity Cruises Fleet
Celebrity Cruises announced yesterday they would soon begin providing an "international marketplace" experience in the casual evening Lido dining venues aboard all their ships (except Celebrity Xpedition). It will be similar to what is currently being offered aboard the line's Solstice-class ships.
The complete story appeared in the October 12, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
The complete story appeared in the October 12, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Honk!
The Queen Awaits
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Breaking the code
Waiting for her name
Walking around Queen Elizabeth
The Garden Lounge
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Being watched
Friday, October 8, 2010
Making Chefs at Sea
Beginning this fall, home cooking aficionados can brush up their skills and learn new ones in the galleys aboard Liberty of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas.
The new cooking programs are presented by Chefmakers Cooking Academy, and seem to be a step above the cooking demonstrations by the chef, even the ones on some lines, where they are presented in small groups, because Chefmakers' are actual hands-on experiences and in the ships' galleys. They do seem to be for slightly-above-novice cook, but not really for the already-accomplished.
Complete details were in the article in the October 8, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The new cooking programs are presented by Chefmakers Cooking Academy, and seem to be a step above the cooking demonstrations by the chef, even the ones on some lines, where they are presented in small groups, because Chefmakers' are actual hands-on experiences and in the ships' galleys. They do seem to be for slightly-above-novice cook, but not really for the already-accomplished.
Complete details were in the article in the October 8, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
iCarly Stars to Join Nickelodeon Cruises
iCarly is one of Nickelodeon's top shows. It's therefore only natural that two of iCarly's stars are going to be showing up on Nick's All Access Cruises aboard NCL.
Jennette McCurdy (who plays Sam Puckett) will appear on the All Access Cruise aboard Norwegian Jewel on February 20 (from New York), and Nathan Kress (who plays Freddie
Benson) will be aboard Norwegian Epic's sailing on July 24 (from Barcelona) to meet his fans.
The complete article appeared in the October 8, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Jennette McCurdy (who plays Sam Puckett) will appear on the All Access Cruise aboard Norwegian Jewel on February 20 (from New York), and Nathan Kress (who plays Freddie
Benson) will be aboard Norwegian Epic's sailing on July 24 (from Barcelona) to meet his fans.
The complete article appeared in the October 8, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Swan Hellenic Owner Makes a Stink, Debit Cards on Cruise Ships, RCI Expands, Vancouver Confused
CND subscribers read about some stinky comments made by the head of Swan Hellenic Cruises ... some questionable debit cards being used aboard cruise ships ... Royal Caribbean expanding their call center ... the Port of Vancouver being confused about why their cruise business is down ... and some cool new MSC ads.
Details appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 8, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 8, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
MSC's Clever New Ad Campaign
When we sail aboard MSC, we often comment on the European styling of the furnishings. The difference is subtle, but distinctive. That difference is coming across in some new ads the line has produced which are beginning to appear around the world. The series of 14 scenes was shot aboard MSC Splendida and feature real MSC employees. The scenes each focus on one element of the cruise experience (such as dining, glamorous cocktails, wellness, fun for the kids, entertainment) where some part of the scene forms one of the letters of MSC and the others are superimposed on the screen. As part of the MSC “employee” family, having christened eight of the eleven ships, Sophia Loren provides the voiceover for the TV spots. A couple of examples are seen below:
Thursday, October 7, 2010
AIDA Innovates with AIDAsol
Most of our readers will probably never sail aboard Carnival's AIDA brand, since it markets exclusively to German-speaking customers. Their ships seem to be extremely innovative, and the line keeps coming up with cool features that we don't really see imitated by US brands.
The line's eighth ship, AIDAsol, is currently under construction at Meyer Werft, and the line is just beginning to release details of the ship's features.
The complete article appeared in the October 7, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The line's eighth ship, AIDAsol, is currently under construction at Meyer Werft, and the line is just beginning to release details of the ship's features.
The complete article appeared in the October 7, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Saturday Night Will Come More than Once a Week on Liberty of the Seas
Last May, Lisa Bauer, Royal Caribbean's SVP of Hotel Operations, told us about enhancements Liberty of the Seas would be getting to bring some of the passenger-experience into line with the experience aboard the line's two Oasis-class ships. Installation will begin during the ship's drydock in January.
One of the new features will be a Broadway-style musical production. Oasis has "Hairspray," and Allure will have "Chicago." Today she announced Liberty will have "Saturday Night Fever: The Musical."
Details appeared in the October 7, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
One of the new features will be a Broadway-style musical production. Oasis has "Hairspray," and Allure will have "Chicago." Today she announced Liberty will have "Saturday Night Fever: The Musical."
Details appeared in the October 7, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Logistically Unusual Medevac from Coral Princess
Most medevacs from cruise ships have become rather routine, even though they require a great deal of expert flying on the part of the Coast Guard air crew and careful seamanship by the officers of the ship to coordinate the operation. Occasionally, the logistics of the operation take it out of the routine, however.
Coral Princess had one of those emergencies on Monday night as it was sailing from Aruba to Port Everglades.
Details appeared in the October 7, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Coral Princess had one of those emergencies on Monday night as it was sailing from Aruba to Port Everglades.
Details appeared in the October 7, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Princess Cruises is First Customer for San Francisco Shore Power
This morning, Island Princess became the first ship to plug into the Port of San Francisco’s new shore power, which is also the first port in the state to offer the facility.
"Cold ironing" allows a ship to plug into the city’s power grid and shut down their engines while in port, thus reducing air emissions.
The process of connecting the ship’s four, three-and-a-half inch power cables takes about 40 minutes to connect and power down the ship’s engines. (Another 40 minutes is required when the ship is ready to leave.)
Island Princess' connection to shore power is shown below.
"Cold ironing" allows a ship to plug into the city’s power grid and shut down their engines while in port, thus reducing air emissions.
The process of connecting the ship’s four, three-and-a-half inch power cables takes about 40 minutes to connect and power down the ship’s engines. (Another 40 minutes is required when the ship is ready to leave.)
Island Princess' connection to shore power is shown below.
Royal Caribbean Expanding Capacity at Spain
Travel trends tend to swing back and forth like a pendulum. As the cruise industry grows and matures in the UK, it too is experiencing these swings of popular trends.
In this CND article we look at how (and why) RCI is capturing the momentum of that pendulum and expanding sailings from Spain for specifically for the growing market from the UK.
The complete article appeared in the October 6, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
In this CND article we look at how (and why) RCI is capturing the momentum of that pendulum and expanding sailings from Spain for specifically for the growing market from the UK.
The complete article appeared in the October 6, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Port of Miami Looking Forward to Winter
The Port of Miami is looking forward to a winter with growth and four new arrivals at the port.
They will include Norwegian Epic, Celebrity Eclipse, inaugural activities for Oceania's Marina, and the return of Costa after several years' absence.
The complete article appeared in the October 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
They will include Norwegian Epic, Celebrity Eclipse, inaugural activities for Oceania's Marina, and the return of Costa after several years' absence.
The complete article appeared in the October 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Princess Cruises Enters The Blogosphere
* A New Dream Each Week
Where have you always wanted to go? Over the next year someone who has been there may be writing about their experience there on Princess Cruises' new blog, "50 Essential Experiences: The Travel Bucket List." The new story posted each week may also give you some new places to dream about and add to your own "to do" list.
These aren't written by just anyone; they're written by experts. Princess has chosen 50 of their own employees, each with more than 15 years' experience traveling for the
company, to write about one special place they've been, and a special experience there.
The new blog will be updated with a new destination and experience each week and is located at www.50essentialexperiences.com
The complete article appeared in the October 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Where have you always wanted to go? Over the next year someone who has been there may be writing about their experience there on Princess Cruises' new blog, "50 Essential Experiences: The Travel Bucket List." The new story posted each week may also give you some new places to dream about and add to your own "to do" list.
These aren't written by just anyone; they're written by experts. Princess has chosen 50 of their own employees, each with more than 15 years' experience traveling for the
company, to write about one special place they've been, and a special experience there.
The new blog will be updated with a new destination and experience each week and is located at www.50essentialexperiences.com
The complete article appeared in the October 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Addl Seven Seas Voyager Cancellation, Passenger Overboard in Med, Crown Princess Perfect Score, Canadian Medevac, New Terminal for Buenos Aries
CND subscribers read about an additional cancellation by Regent Seven Seas due to Voyager's propulsion problem ... a passenger overboard from a cruise ship off the coast of Israel ... Crown Princess has a perfect Canadian score ... a stunning new video of Cunard's Queen Elizabeth ... a Canadian medevac from Norwegian Dawn ... and Buenos Aries opening a new cruise terminal to handle its exploding number of cruise passengers.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 5, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Cunard's Queen Elizabeth - Building to Finished Product
Cunard and Fincantieri have released a video about the new Queen Elizabeth. It covers the building of the vessel through the finished product, with some absolutely spectacular shots. The video is also a magnificent piece of film making on Cunard's part. Enjoy!
Monday, October 4, 2010
Obstructing Sculpture at San Juan Pier Coming Down
* Going, Going ....
On Saturday, the port of San Juan began the removal process of a giant sculpture which has stood at Pier 3 since 2006. With the way new ships are being built, with features protruding over the sides of the hull, the support cables on the sculpture make it impossible for them to use the pier.
The above photo, shows the sculpture at the foot of Old San Juan. If you look carefully, you can see the offensive cabling.
This photo, shot from above the sculpture shows a detail of how close the cables are set to the edge of the pier and why ships with superstructures that extend over the side of the hull find it difficult or impossible to use the pier.
The complete story appeared in the October 4, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
On Saturday, the port of San Juan began the removal process of a giant sculpture which has stood at Pier 3 since 2006. With the way new ships are being built, with features protruding over the sides of the hull, the support cables on the sculpture make it impossible for them to use the pier.
The above photo, shows the sculpture at the foot of Old San Juan. If you look carefully, you can see the offensive cabling.
This photo, shot from above the sculpture shows a detail of how close the cables are set to the edge of the pier and why ships with superstructures that extend over the side of the hull find it difficult or impossible to use the pier.
The complete story appeared in the October 4, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Crystal Releases 2012 Preliminary Itinerary Info
Crystal Cruises has released some preliminary information about their 2012 luxury cruise program that will take its ships to many exotic corners of the globe.
Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will sail 68 different itineraries during the year. Highlights include a 94-day Pacific Rim World Cruise, expansion of late fall options in the Mediterranean, Baltic and Northern Europe, and New England/Canada. Details of the full program will be released on October 30.
The complete story appeared in the October 4, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will sail 68 different itineraries during the year. Highlights include a 94-day Pacific Rim World Cruise, expansion of late fall options in the Mediterranean, Baltic and Northern Europe, and New England/Canada. Details of the full program will be released on October 30.
The complete story appeared in the October 4, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Seven Seas Voyager Cancellation, MSC Poesia's Perfect Score, Strike in Marseilles, Ted Koppel Speaks, the Rest of the Story on QM2
CND subscribers also read about Regent Seven Seas Voyager being disabled in Greece ... a perfect score in Canada for MSC Poesia ... labor strikes causing trouble getting to the port in Marseilles ... Ted Koppel joins the list of speakers aboard Seabourn Sojourn's 2011 world cruise ... and there's more to the story than you've probably heard about the prominent couple asked to disembark from Cunard's Queen Mary 2.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 4, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 4, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Leonard Maltin to Lead Film Discussions aboard Coral Princess
Princess has a special holiday gift for passengers sailing aboard Coral Princess' December 15 Panama Canal cruise.
Noted film critic Leonard Maltin will be aboard to give passengers a special live presentation of his "movie club," which "meets" on every Princess cruise.
Details appeared in Cruise News Daily on October 1, 2010.
Noted film critic Leonard Maltin will be aboard to give passengers a special live presentation of his "movie club," which "meets" on every Princess cruise.
Details appeared in Cruise News Daily on October 1, 2010.
Galveston Prepares for Carnival Magic
* Waiting for the Magic to Happen
As we earlier reported, Carnival Cruise Lines is upsizing their operation at Galveston next fall. As part of that expansion, they will be replacing Carnival Conquest with Carnival Magic, the second Dream-class vessel, sized at 130,000 tons, which also carries 4,000 passengers.
The larger ship and more passengers need larger facilities, and the port isn't waiting until the last minute to begin to get things in place. The necessary changes and major funding have been approved by the port's board, and work is going to begin this month.
The complete article appeared in the October 1, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
As we earlier reported, Carnival Cruise Lines is upsizing their operation at Galveston next fall. As part of that expansion, they will be replacing Carnival Conquest with Carnival Magic, the second Dream-class vessel, sized at 130,000 tons, which also carries 4,000 passengers.
The larger ship and more passengers need larger facilities, and the port isn't waiting until the last minute to begin to get things in place. The necessary changes and major funding have been approved by the port's board, and work is going to begin this month.
The complete article appeared in the October 1, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Carnival bartender guilty/sentenced, Disney Dream ready to float out, the floating hotel trend, cruise marketing Italian-style
CND subscribers read about a Carnival bartender being sentenced for the rape of a 14-year-old girl aboard Carnival Freedom ... Disney readying a special "coming out" party when Disney Dream floats out at the Meyer shipyard later this month ... another cruise ship being used as a floating hotel for a special event ... and cruise marketing, Italian-style.
Details appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 1, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the October 1, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
MSC cruise marketing event in Torino
American cruise lines often have marketing events in downtown locations to get the line's name and image out. It seems to be the same all over the world. Here's a video of one that MSC Crociere held in Torino (Italy) last week (September 25, 2010) on the Piazza Castello, which they term a "Flash Mob" event. It doesn't look too much like a mob, but that increases the chances of walking away with one of the prizes. It looks like some people went home with 200-euro cruise certificates, but the really lucky ones went home with a genuine MSC ball point pen.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Cunard's New Queen on the Way
There’s a new queen in Cunard’s closet tonight, and as you read this, she’s on her way to Southampton to be named by The Queen.
This morning Fincantieri delivered Queen Elizabeth to Cunard at their Monfalcone yard near Venice.
Proud Cunard president and managing director, Peter Shanks, is shown here with the keys to his new ship after taking possession this morning.
The complete article appeared in the September 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Carnival Testing Premium Entrees in Main Dining Room
* Bringing the Steakhouse to the Main Dining Room
Taking a similar page out of Royal Caribbean's book, Carnival Cruise Lines has begun testing the concept of offering entrees from the premium restaurant's menu for a price in the main dining room.
Details appeared in the September 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Taking a similar page out of Royal Caribbean's book, Carnival Cruise Lines has begun testing the concept of offering entrees from the premium restaurant's menu for a price in the main dining room.
Details appeared in the September 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Royal Caribbean Offers 5K Run as Shorex
* Running Down to St. Maarten
You have to hand it to Royal Caribbean for originality of a new one-time-only shore excursion being offered, but it shouldn't come as a surprise since much of their marketing has always stressed the active options available on a cruise vacation.
The special excursion, called Royal 5K, will happen only on Allure of the Seas December 12 sailing when the ship reaches St. Maarten on December 16.
Details appeared in the September 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
You have to hand it to Royal Caribbean for originality of a new one-time-only shore excursion being offered, but it shouldn't come as a surprise since much of their marketing has always stressed the active options available on a cruise vacation.
The special excursion, called Royal 5K, will happen only on Allure of the Seas December 12 sailing when the ship reaches St. Maarten on December 16.
Details appeared in the September 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Princess Cruises, Cunard Line Getting Tough on Final Payments
* Don't Be Late
Most people who book vacations are used to being prompt with their deposit to the cruise line or tour operator. They know if they aren't, the space they are holding will be automatically canceled. That's only fair, because the company doesn't know if you're really going or not; you might be one of the thousands who hold something and never follow through. Most people know that promptness isn't as necessary with the final payment, because the company knows you're going or you wouldn't have given them a deposit of several hundred dollars.
That's about to change. Princess and Cunard advised travel agents yesterday they are changing the rules of the game.
The complete article appeared in the September 29, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Most people who book vacations are used to being prompt with their deposit to the cruise line or tour operator. They know if they aren't, the space they are holding will be automatically canceled. That's only fair, because the company doesn't know if you're really going or not; you might be one of the thousands who hold something and never follow through. Most people know that promptness isn't as necessary with the final payment, because the company knows you're going or you wouldn't have given them a deposit of several hundred dollars.
That's about to change. Princess and Cunard advised travel agents yesterday they are changing the rules of the game.
The complete article appeared in the September 29, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Port Everglades Ready for the Winter Cruise Season
* The Makings of a Record-Breaking Port
Record-breaking days have become the norm at Port Everglades. Some of it's due to the lines putting their newest ships there, and some of the reason is that it's so popular with passengers because the port goes out of their way to make it a good passenger experience.
This winter it seems to all be coming together for Port Everglades with five of the industry's newest ships sailing from the port, and the potential for seven potentially record-breaking days when nine cruise ships will be in port at once.
Details appeared in the complete article in the September 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Record-breaking days have become the norm at Port Everglades. Some of it's due to the lines putting their newest ships there, and some of the reason is that it's so popular with passengers because the port goes out of their way to make it a good passenger experience.
This winter it seems to all be coming together for Port Everglades with five of the industry's newest ships sailing from the port, and the potential for seven potentially record-breaking days when nine cruise ships will be in port at once.
Details appeared in the complete article in the September 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
United Way Donors to Be Among First Allure Passengers & Cruise Ship Arrested
CND subscribers also about an opportunity to be one of the first to sail aboard Allure of the Seas and help a worthy cause at the same time ... and a cruise ship arrested with 700 passengers aboard.
Details of these items appeared in the Other Things You'll Want to Know column in the September 29, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the Other Things You'll Want to Know column in the September 29, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Crystal's Alaska to Be Different
Next summer for the first time in six years, Crystal Cruises will be returning to Alaska.
The 12-day itineraries sail round trip from San Francisco from early May through mid-August aboard Crystal Symphony. The Crystal way will be different from the mass market and premium lines sailing to the 49th State.
"Alaska, Their Way" appeared in the September 28, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
The 12-day itineraries sail round trip from San Francisco from early May through mid-August aboard Crystal Symphony. The Crystal way will be different from the mass market and premium lines sailing to the 49th State.
"Alaska, Their Way" appeared in the September 28, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Cruising As It Really Is
If you are reading this in CND, you know what it's like to go on a cruise. You know the reality as opposed to that you saw on "The Love Boat," or when characters on a TV show go on a cruise as part of the storyline. Most people, however, don't know what a cruise is really like, or consider it a vacation they are apt to take, because they are "regular" people.
One cruise line, P&O Australia, however, has found a way to go right into people's living rooms and show them what a cruise is really like and that it's a "normal" vacation to take.
The complete article appeared in the September 28, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
One cruise line, P&O Australia, however, has found a way to go right into people's living rooms and show them what a cruise is really like and that it's a "normal" vacation to take.
The complete article appeared in the September 28, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Other Things You'll Want to Know
CND subscribers also read about some consumers who weren't too smart before they paid for their cruises.
Details appeared in the September 28, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details appeared in the September 28, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Video of Medevac from Holland America's Volendam
The US Coast Guard performed a helicopter medevac from Holland America's Volendam on Friday afternoon (September 24, 2010) when the ship was about 100 miles west of the Columbia River entrance off the Oregon coast.
The Coast Guard makes this look easy, but to get an idea of the skill involved, notice the ocean that you can see off the side of the ship toward the lower right corner of the screen, and notice the speed at which the ship is moving through the water. The Coast Guard pilot has to match that speed exactly to hover motionless above the ship's pool deck.
Details appeared in the Other Things You'll Want to Know column in the September 27, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
The Coast Guard makes this look easy, but to get an idea of the skill involved, notice the ocean that you can see off the side of the ship toward the lower right corner of the screen, and notice the speed at which the ship is moving through the water. The Coast Guard pilot has to match that speed exactly to hover motionless above the ship's pool deck.
Details appeared in the Other Things You'll Want to Know column in the September 27, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Monday, September 27, 2010
MSC to Base Ship in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
* Everybody Wants to Go to Dubai
You can add MSC Crociere to the list of cruise lines heading to the Gulf, which seems to be the destination an ever-growing number of European cruise passengers want to explore.
MSC is going to put their own mark on it, however, using the intimate MSC Lirica while most other lines are scheduling their largest and glitziest ships there. MSC is also going to be boarding passengers in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The complete article appeared in the September 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
You can add MSC Crociere to the list of cruise lines heading to the Gulf, which seems to be the destination an ever-growing number of European cruise passengers want to explore.
MSC is going to put their own mark on it, however, using the intimate MSC Lirica while most other lines are scheduling their largest and glitziest ships there. MSC is also going to be boarding passengers in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The complete article appeared in the September 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
2 Cruise Ship Medevacs, a Man Guilty of Sexual Assaul on a Cruise, a Carnival Anniversary and Other Things You'll Want to Know
CND subscribers also read about two helicopter medevacs from Holland America's Volendam (video) and Carnival Splendor over the weekend ... a 25-year-old man pleading guilty to sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl aboard Disney Wonder ... ten years of Carnival in Galveston ... Silversea redesigning their website ... and a very slow way to deliver a message from a cruise.
Details appeared in the Other Things You'll Want to Know Column in the September 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details appeared in the Other Things You'll Want to Know Column in the September 27, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Friday, August 13, 2010
A Cutaway View of Celebrity Silhouette.
Construction is in the early phases of Celebrity's fourth Solstice-class ship, Celebrity Silhouette. CND gave their readers the ultimate "cutaway" view in this photo taken at Meyer Werft.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Istanbul Getting the Celebrity Treatment
In the fall of 2011, Celebrity Cruises will be basing Celebrity Constellation at Istanbul for a short series of Greek Island cruises. Using Istanbul as a turnaround port is something we haven’t seen much of since 9-11, and security and stability at the Turkish port became a concern.
The complete article appeared in the July 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The complete article appeared in the July 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Innovating in the “Drive to the Port” Market
Discounting pricing for early booking and onboard credits are nothing new. Neither is providing “free” air fare to the port, but that’s usually reserved for ports of embarkation which are distant.
P&O has come up with a new booking incentive for the "drive to the port" market that just could catch on among cruise lines in the US.
The complete article appeared in the July 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
P&O has come up with a new booking incentive for the "drive to the port" market that just could catch on among cruise lines in the US.
The complete article appeared in the July 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Business as Usual in St. Thomas, NCL Record Bookings, Carnival Dividend, New Sandwich Bar aboard Wind Surf
CND subscribers also read about update on how it's business as usual in St. Thomas after a shooting on Monday that claimed the life of a cruise ship passenger ... NCL setting booking records ... Carnival Corp declaring a dividend ... and Windstar adds a new sandwich bar aboard Wind Surf.
Details of these items appeared in the “Other Things You’ll Want to Know” column in the July 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the “Other Things You’ll Want to Know” column in the July 14, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
First Look at Norwegian Epic (Part 2)
In the first part of this article we looked at an overview of how Norwegian Epic is going to change people’s expectations about what will be found aboard cruise ships. The rest of the industry is eventually going to follow along.
In the second part of the article, we are going to be looking at some specifics that I saw, and we’re starting with one of the places where you can see innovation everywhere: in the accommodations.
The complete article appeared in the July 13, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
In the second part of the article, we are going to be looking at some specifics that I saw, and we’re starting with one of the places where you can see innovation everywhere: in the accommodations.
The complete article appeared in the July 13, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Passenger Death on St. Thomas, Famous Lecturers aboard Silver Whisper
CND subscribers also read about a cruise ship passenger being killed by gunfire on St. Thomas ... and two famous names to appear aboard Silver Whisper.
Details of the above items appeared in the “Other Things You’ll Want to Know” column in the July 13, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of the above items appeared in the “Other Things You’ll Want to Know” column in the July 13, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Monday, July 12, 2010
First Look at Norwegian Epic
At the end of last week, CND spent two days aboard Norwegian Epic. At this point, we can tell you that it's going to create some major changes in the cruise industry over time, but maybe not the ones we expected before we saw it.
The basic cruise experience is still there, but just as over time Freestyle changed the norm in the industry, Norwegian Epic is going to change what passengers expect aboard their ship. But the changes won’t happen immediately.
In this CND article, we look at how what we saw aboard Norwegian Epic is going to change what passengers expect to find aboard a cruise ship, just as NCL's Freestyle has done.
The complete article appeared in the July 12, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The basic cruise experience is still there, but just as over time Freestyle changed the norm in the industry, Norwegian Epic is going to change what passengers expect aboard their ship. But the changes won’t happen immediately.
In this CND article, we look at how what we saw aboard Norwegian Epic is going to change what passengers expect to find aboard a cruise ship, just as NCL's Freestyle has done.
The complete article appeared in the July 12, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Famous Face in the Cruise Industry, More Art Auction Trouble and an Apple a Day
CND subscribers also read about a famous face now appearing in the cruise industry .... more trouble in the cruise ship art auction world ... and Crystal now offering a choice of operating systems.
Details of the above items appeared in the “Other Things You’ll Want to Know” column in the July 12, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of the above items appeared in the “Other Things You’ll Want to Know” column in the July 12, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Princess Brings Back the “Art” of Cooking
A longtime Princess tradition that went away for a while is returning to the dining room on your next Princess Cruise.
Details appeared in the July 9, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details appeared in the July 9, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The Horns of the Dilemma are Starting to Poke Jacksonville
You may still be planning this year's vacation or even next year's. But the cruise lines are now dealing with the final details of 2012's programs and are just about ready to open them for sale. And they are already deep into the planning for 2013, 2014 and even beyond.
That's why Carnival Cruise Lines need an answer from the Port of Jacksonville: Will you be in the cruise business or not? And Jacksonville doesn't really have an answer.
In this CND article we take a look at the time crunch facing the Florida port.
The complete article appeared in the July 9, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
That's why Carnival Cruise Lines need an answer from the Port of Jacksonville: Will you be in the cruise business or not? And Jacksonville doesn't really have an answer.
In this CND article we take a look at the time crunch facing the Florida port.
The complete article appeared in the July 9, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Celebrity Adding New Level of Concierges
* Putting the Personal in Personal Concierge
There's a new staff member starting to appear on Celebrity ships, and he or she knows just what you need.
The line has created a new position called a Personal Concierge, which is an outgrowth of a previous program, because their reach covers a whole lot more circumstances.
The complete article appeared in the June 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
There's a new staff member starting to appear on Celebrity ships, and he or she knows just what you need.
The line has created a new position called a Personal Concierge, which is an outgrowth of a previous program, because their reach covers a whole lot more circumstances.
The complete article appeared in the June 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
SS United States to Be Rescued - Maybe
The United States Conservancy is reportedly announcing today that they are receiving a $5.8 million donation which will be the first step in them buying the classic SS United States, The ship has of late been laid up in Philadelphia, and without this purchase it seems destined to be scrapped.
The funds will allow the group to enter into a preliminary agreement with Norwegian Cruise Line and Genting Hong Kong (formerly Star Cruises) that will give the group time to decide exactly what they will do with the ship and where they will put it, if they proceed with the purchase. The decision will be based in large part on if they find the ship could support itself in operation as a hotel.
Details were in the complete article which appeared in the June 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The funds will allow the group to enter into a preliminary agreement with Norwegian Cruise Line and Genting Hong Kong (formerly Star Cruises) that will give the group time to decide exactly what they will do with the ship and where they will put it, if they proceed with the purchase. The decision will be based in large part on if they find the ship could support itself in operation as a hotel.
Details were in the complete article which appeared in the June 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
NCL Plans for Epic Christening, Lybian Line Builds Big Ship, NCL Passenger Assaults Girl at Dinner, That Pesky Sculpture in San Juan
CND subscribers also read about NCL choosing a host for Norwegian Epic's inaugural ceremonies in New York and the line webcasting the event live on Friday at 2pm. (You can register at http://ow.ly/24amt)
+ STX France signed the final contracts with Libyan oil carrier GNMTC for a 139,400-ton cruise ship carrying almost 3,500 passengers (double occupancy). The line has a fleet of 24 tankers, but this is their first venture into passenger shipping.
+ An NCL passenger was convicted of sexually assaulting an 18-year-old girl at dinner in the presence of his wife, child, and the girl's family.
+ The new San Juan port director pledges to get rid of the pesky sculpture which has already "stood in the way" of some of the port's cruise business.
Details of these items were in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the June 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
+ STX France signed the final contracts with Libyan oil carrier GNMTC for a 139,400-ton cruise ship carrying almost 3,500 passengers (double occupancy). The line has a fleet of 24 tankers, but this is their first venture into passenger shipping.
+ An NCL passenger was convicted of sexually assaulting an 18-year-old girl at dinner in the presence of his wife, child, and the girl's family.
+ The new San Juan port director pledges to get rid of the pesky sculpture which has already "stood in the way" of some of the port's cruise business.
Details of these items were in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the June 30, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Alex Has Little Impact on Cruise Industry
Tropical Storm Alex (who also occasionally has become Hurricane Alex) is again over the Gulf of Mexico, now between the Yucatan Peninsula and the Mexican mainland. As of 5pm, it is now expected to make landfall slightly south of the border just after midnight on Thursday, so it appears its effects on the cruise industry are finished.
The impact on cruise ships has been minimal, with only three ships having to change itineraries. The only ships reporting changes were Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas (June 24 sailing), Carnival Ecstasy (June 26 sailing) and Carnival Triumph (June 26 sailing).
Details were in the June 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The impact on cruise ships has been minimal, with only three ships having to change itineraries. The only ships reporting changes were Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas (June 24 sailing), Carnival Ecstasy (June 26 sailing) and Carnival Triumph (June 26 sailing).
Details were in the June 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Dubai Is a Hit and a Milestone for RCI
A couple months ago, Royal Caribbean finished its first season with a ship based at Dubai. They were so impressed with the results, they are already making changes to add more sailings than originally planned in their third season.
But where the demand is coming from is what's surprising and impressive, because it represents a significant step forward in RCCL's global expansion.
The complete story appeared in the June 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
But where the demand is coming from is what's surprising and impressive, because it represents a significant step forward in RCCL's global expansion.
The complete story appeared in the June 29, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Norwegian Epic Just Keeps Getting Cooler
It seems like an oxymoron, but one of the hottest tickets on Norwegian Epic is scoring a reservation to spend a half hour in the new ship's ice bar. And today, NCL announced it just got cooler, if that's possible.
The line announced an exclusive partnership with SVEDKA Vodka and Inniskillin ice wine, and the ice bar will be renamed the SVEDKA Ice Bar.
For a peek inside the ice bar, watch the video below: (And don't leave the door open.)
The line announced an exclusive partnership with SVEDKA Vodka and Inniskillin ice wine, and the ice bar will be renamed the SVEDKA Ice Bar.
For a peek inside the ice bar, watch the video below: (And don't leave the door open.)
Princess Adds Third Seating for Traditional Dining
Princess' customers who like to dine early and like Princess' traditional dining now have a new option.
The line has just completed roll-out across the fleet of a new third seating (on most ships) for traditional dining. This is in addition to their Anytime Dining program.
Details appeared in the June 28, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The line has just completed roll-out across the fleet of a new third seating (on most ships) for traditional dining. This is in addition to their Anytime Dining program.
Details appeared in the June 28, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Chinese Planning for Growth in the Cruise Industry
When you consider the population of the region and the number of cruise ships that are based there even seasonally, by any standards, China and Asia's cruise industry is in its infancy. Western cruise companies have an adequate number of ships there to satisfy demand from western cruisers, but both Carnival Corp and Royal Caribbean are taking a slow, methodical approach to selling to the various local markets. For both companies the first step is to have a ship or two in the region, and educate consumers about cruise vacations, what they are, and the good value they are.
With the western-sourced and the Asian-sourced markets combined, there is only a handful of cruise ships in Asia, but Chinese port authorities are planning for the future. On Saturday Tianjin opened a huge cruise terminal already with plans to expand it.
Costa Romantica was the first ship to call at the new terminal, and we have photos of the ultramodern new terminal in a newsfile on the CND website.
The complete article appeared in the June 28, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
With the western-sourced and the Asian-sourced markets combined, there is only a handful of cruise ships in Asia, but Chinese port authorities are planning for the future. On Saturday Tianjin opened a huge cruise terminal already with plans to expand it.
Costa Romantica was the first ship to call at the new terminal, and we have photos of the ultramodern new terminal in a newsfile on the CND website.
The complete article appeared in the June 28, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Carnival Adds Itineraries from Jacksonville and Tampa
Come next year, Carnival customers who sail from Jacksonville and Tampa are each going to have an additional itinerary to choose from when the line begins to offer new 7-day eastern Caribbean itinerary options approximately once a month.
Details appeared in the complete Cruise News Daily article on June 25, 2010.
Details appeared in the complete Cruise News Daily article on June 25, 2010.
Governor Signs Bill to Reduce Alaska Head Tax
Alaskan governor Sean Parnell signed the bill yesterday which reduces the state's head tax. If the state would pass the reduction, the cruise industry earlier agreed to drop their lawsuit against the state which was seeking to have the tax struck down entirely.
There are two key reductions included in the bill. One reduces the tax charged on each passenger ticket from $46.00 to $36.50. The other credits passengers for head taxes charged by Alaskan ports, such as Juneau and Ketchikan, which do not share in the state tax. Since most itineraries call at both those ports, for most people it will mean a further $15 reduction. The reductions will become effective on November 1, 2010.
Parnell supported the tax cut, which the cruise lines wanted, saying that since 2009 when cruise lines began to reduce capacity, there was a sharp decrease in the state's visitors, in both 2009 and 2010. He said the state lost more than 260,000 visitors, $420 million in direct and indirect spending, and up to 5,000 jobs.
The relatively small decrease (resulting from the tax cut) in the total price of an Alaskan vacation probably won't move much consumer demand, but it will move cruise line profitability, at least to the lines' way of thinking. (See our earlier articles.)
For this reason, the cruise lines wanted the reduction in the tax. In any business, including tourism, you have to appease the customer, and the cruise lines are the state's customers. They are the ones who decide how many ships come to Alaska and ultimately, therefore, how many visitors can cruise to Alaska.
But still, the state may be setting themselves up for a disappointment.
From comments in the media, it seems the governor and citizens are expecting berths taken out of the market to be restored. Deployment schedules are already set for 2011, so it's too late to see any restoration next year, but 2012 deployments are now being finalized, and they seem to be anticipating more ships then.
The cruise lines only agreed to drop their lawsuit against the state in return for the head tax reduction. There were never any promises made with regard to capacity. There are many more issues to be addressed in Alaska to make the industry as profitable there as they are elsewhere.
As noted in Carnival Corp's earnings call this week, with the reduction in capacity, the pricing of their cruises to Alaska is much stronger, which is what the lines want.
If they were to add capacity, it would probably only serve to weaken the pricing again. Alaska, therefore, may not get more visitors out of the deal, which is what they were hoping for.
The cruise lines may, however, show their gratitude for the tax cut in a less measurable way - by not cutting capacity further in 2012.
This article appeared in the June 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
There are two key reductions included in the bill. One reduces the tax charged on each passenger ticket from $46.00 to $36.50. The other credits passengers for head taxes charged by Alaskan ports, such as Juneau and Ketchikan, which do not share in the state tax. Since most itineraries call at both those ports, for most people it will mean a further $15 reduction. The reductions will become effective on November 1, 2010.
Parnell supported the tax cut, which the cruise lines wanted, saying that since 2009 when cruise lines began to reduce capacity, there was a sharp decrease in the state's visitors, in both 2009 and 2010. He said the state lost more than 260,000 visitors, $420 million in direct and indirect spending, and up to 5,000 jobs.
The relatively small decrease (resulting from the tax cut) in the total price of an Alaskan vacation probably won't move much consumer demand, but it will move cruise line profitability, at least to the lines' way of thinking. (See our earlier articles.)
For this reason, the cruise lines wanted the reduction in the tax. In any business, including tourism, you have to appease the customer, and the cruise lines are the state's customers. They are the ones who decide how many ships come to Alaska and ultimately, therefore, how many visitors can cruise to Alaska.
But still, the state may be setting themselves up for a disappointment.
From comments in the media, it seems the governor and citizens are expecting berths taken out of the market to be restored. Deployment schedules are already set for 2011, so it's too late to see any restoration next year, but 2012 deployments are now being finalized, and they seem to be anticipating more ships then.
The cruise lines only agreed to drop their lawsuit against the state in return for the head tax reduction. There were never any promises made with regard to capacity. There are many more issues to be addressed in Alaska to make the industry as profitable there as they are elsewhere.
As noted in Carnival Corp's earnings call this week, with the reduction in capacity, the pricing of their cruises to Alaska is much stronger, which is what the lines want.
If they were to add capacity, it would probably only serve to weaken the pricing again. Alaska, therefore, may not get more visitors out of the deal, which is what they were hoping for.
The cruise lines may, however, show their gratitude for the tax cut in a less measurable way - by not cutting capacity further in 2012.
This article appeared in the June 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Medevac from Norwegian Pearl, Crystal Serenity's Perfect Score, Changes to Carnival's Air/Sea, and CDF Going to Brazil
CND subscribers also read about a medevac from Norwegian Pearl in Alaska yesterday ... Crystal Serenity achieving a perfect score on its annual Lloyd's Register audit, a standard much more important in the industry than the more familiar CDC rating ... changes to Carnival's air/sea program ... and RCCL's CDF brand serving Brazilian customers instead of French this winter.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the June 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Details of these items appeared in the "Other Things You'll Want to Know" column in the June 25, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Choice Air Gets More Choices as "Mystery Air" Is Discontinued
The three Royal Caribbean brands in North America (Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity and Azamara) recently introduced Choice Air for their air/sea passengers, but effective July 1, the program will offer two additional options, and the standard air/sea program (where you don't know your exact flights until close to departure) will then shortly be discontinued.
When the change is completed, the brands' air/sea programs will have changed completely.
Details appeared in the June 24, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
When the change is completed, the brands' air/sea programs will have changed completely.
Details appeared in the June 24, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Cruising for Art
Cruise ship art auctions have been making headlines recently when a major lawsuit was brought against one of the largest auction firms in the business after customers began complaining that the artworks they purchased were fakes. That firm was recently booted off one major cruise line.
So how can you be sure artwork you purchase aboard a cruise ship by a "name" artist is genuine? How about if you have the artist there to vouch for it personally? On some upcoming Princess cruises, you can do just that.
The complete article appeared in the June 24, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
So how can you be sure artwork you purchase aboard a cruise ship by a "name" artist is genuine? How about if you have the artist there to vouch for it personally? On some upcoming Princess cruises, you can do just that.
The complete article appeared in the June 24, 2010 edition of Cruise News Daily.
Six Months Later, Man Held on Charges from December Incident aboard Royal Caribbean Ship
A 71-year-old Pennsylvania man has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges stemming from an incident aboard Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas last December in which he is alleged to have touched a 6-year-old boy inappropriately in the whirlpool.
The complete story appeared in the June 24, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
The complete story appeared in the June 24, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Carnival to Grow in the Gulf
Carnival Cruise Lines' announced today that they will homeport Carnival Magic at Galveston when it arrives in the US in the fall of 2011. That will unleash a flood of capacity increases as ships move in conjunction with the Magic deployment decision.
Both Galveston and New Orleans will see significant capacity increases as a result as Carnival moves to solidify their market position in both cities faced with competitors' recently-announced redeployments for roughly the same time periods.
The end result will have Carnival Magic sailing from Galveston on 7-night cruises, Carnival Triumph in Galveston for a 4- and 5-night program, Carnival Conquest in New Orleans for 7-night cruises, and Carnival Ecstasy sailing 4- and 5-night cruises from New Orleans.
In this CND article we looked at the details of the new programs, the changes that Carnival is requiring at Galveston and what it's going to cost, and the capacity that's pouring into New Orleans and what that might mean.
The complete article appeared in the June 23, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
Both Galveston and New Orleans will see significant capacity increases as a result as Carnival moves to solidify their market position in both cities faced with competitors' recently-announced redeployments for roughly the same time periods.
The end result will have Carnival Magic sailing from Galveston on 7-night cruises, Carnival Triumph in Galveston for a 4- and 5-night program, Carnival Conquest in New Orleans for 7-night cruises, and Carnival Ecstasy sailing 4- and 5-night cruises from New Orleans.
In this CND article we looked at the details of the new programs, the changes that Carnival is requiring at Galveston and what it's going to cost, and the capacity that's pouring into New Orleans and what that might mean.
The complete article appeared in the June 23, 2010, edition of Cruise News Daily.
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