Archive for the ‘cruise vacations’ Category

Explore Under-the-Radar Destinations by Yacht-Dream Yacht Worldwide Makes it Possible

January 14, 2023

Offering sailing vacations in over 50 destinations, and with a fleet of more than 900 monohulls and catamarans, Dream Yacht Worldwide has sailing experiences available in almost every corner of the world including popular destinations like the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, but also under-the-radar destinations to discover. No sailing experience? No problem – just add a skipper or book a cabin cruise and enjoy a private stateroom in one of the company’s modern catamarans. (Photo supplied by Dream Yacht Worldwide)

Ever think about exploring “under-the-radar” destinations by sailing? Dream Yacht Worldwide, one of the world’s leading ocean tourism companies and a pioneer in making sailing and sea travel accessible to all around the globe, is making it easier for all to explore lesser-known destinations by sea plus some of the world’s favorite ocean vacation spots.

Instead of the Maldives, visit Seychelles: Dream Yacht Worldwide began its first yacht charters in the Seychelles. And for good reason, as it’s one of the most beautiful places on the planet, comprising 41 of the earth’s oldest granite islands and 74 low-lying reef islands which embody the phrase ‘tropical paradise’. On a Seychelles yacht charter, travelers can snorkel among the treelike corals on Coco Island, or at stunning St. Pierre islet, where rugged granite rocks merge with lush tropical vegetation. And not to be missed highlight on any yacht charter in the Seychelles is a visit to the scented vanilla plantations at Union Estate on La Digue, one of the most beautiful islands in the region. While for nature lovers, there’s bird watching at Aride Island and the rare Aldabra tortoises at Curieuse, a protected island where you can observe these gentle giants. There are also the larger islands of Mahé and Praslin to explore. Here, you’ll find stunning landscapes, relaxed island hopping and plenty of opportunities to swim in the reefs.

Instead of the French Riviera, explore New Caledonia: Dream Yacht Worldwide was the first company to offer sailing charters in this exciting cruising ground, and now have an extensive fleet operating from its base at Port Moselle in Nouméa, the capital of New Caledonia. New Caledonia is home to the world’s largest lagoon, a beautiful and unique natural aquarium covering over 9000 square miles, and one of the most remarkable and beautiful sailing destinations. The archipelago is also home to one of the world’s most extensive reef systems, with a diverse range of healthy coral and marine life, including whales, turtles and tropical fish. Nouméa is a cosmopolitan city which feels much like the French Riviera. Colorful waterfronts are lined with bars, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs, and it’s an ideal place to stock up on superb French gourmet food and wine. The city is within easy reach of the south lagoon, where you can sail Îlot Maître, Île des Pins, Île Ouen, Îlot Brosse and Ilot Kuaré. 

Instead of Sicily, check out Sardinia: The island of Sardinia is off Italy’s west coast in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Sardinia sailing adventures begin from Dream Yacht Worldwide’s base in Olbia on the northeast coast. From there, it’s an easy sail to the Maddalena Archipelago and the glamorous Costa Smeralda – Sardinia’s most coveted sailing areas. Well known for their miles of craggy coastline, the world-famous Emerald Coast and the Maddalena Archipelago National Park and Marine Reserve are the places to find superb beaches and scenic coves. Travelers can swim, snorkel and take in stunning sunsets in the solitude of these largely uninhabited islands. Many enjoy boutique shopping in the super-exclusive ports of Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo, where travelers can mix with the international jet set. With a wide choice of dining options, from local trattoria to fine dining, it is recommended to sample the local cuisine during a boat charter in Sardinia, especially the amazing fresh seafood found on the coast.

Offering sailing vacations in over 50 destinations, and with a fleet of more than 900 monohulls and catamarans, Dream Yacht Worldwide has sailing experiences available in almost every corner of the world including popular destinations like the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, but also under-the-radar destinations to discover. No sailing experience? No problem – just add a skipper or book a cabin cruise and enjoy a private stateroom in one of the company’s modern catamarans.

Since 2018, the company’s catamaran charters with skippers to assist with sailing have more than doubled (+133%) in select destinations like the Mediterranean. Due to demand and industry research pointing to an increase in Marine tourism, Dream Yacht Worldwide will launch 150 news boats in the coming season of which 80% are catamarans. The company will continue to offer sea travelers the option of crew support including a variety of skipper and hostess offerings to support sailors and non-sailors of all skill levels. 

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Cunard Announces ‘Treat Yourself, On Us’ Wave Season Offer on a Variety of 2023-2024 Sailings

January 10, 2023
Cunard’s “Treat Yourself, On Us” Wave Season offer is available on select Cunard voyages seven nights or longer between May 16, 2023 and January 3, 2025. The offer runs from January 3 through March 28, 2023, and includes onboard credit up to $2,000 per stateroom and discounts of up to 30% for all fares © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

VALENCIA, Calif. – Luxury cruise line Cunard launches the “Treat Yourself, On Us” Wave Season offer, kicking off the new year with savings. Available on 2023 and 2024 voyages across Cunard’s fleet – flagship Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth and the line’s newest ship Queen Anne.The “Treat Yourself, On Us” offer is available on select Cunard voyages seven nights or longer between May 16, 2023 and January 3, 2025. The offer runs from January 3 through March 28, 2023, and includes onboard credit up to $2,000 per stateroom and discounts of up to 30% for all fares.

From January 3 through March 28, 2023, the promotional offer includes onboard credit up to $2,000 per stateroom and discounts of up to 30% for all fares. Onboard credit may be used for shopping, shore excursions, spa, restaurants and other services. The drinks package and hotel & dining service charge are included when booking any Princess or Queens Grills Suite.

The “Treat Yourself, On Us” offer is available on select voyages seven nights or longer between May 16, 2023 and January 3, 2025. Itineraries include:

  • 2023 Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Caribbean, Europe, Mediterranean, Panama Canal, and Transatlantic Crossing
  • 2024 Asia, Australia, Europe, Mediterranean, Panama Canal, Transatlantic Crossing, and World.

Some of Cunard’s signature sailings include:

  • The line’s newest vessel Queen Anne will sail the Western Mediterranean on a variety of eight to 16-night voyages featuring a mix of days at sea and time in port, offering guests the chance to discover the fascinating histories of Lisbon, Cadiz and Rome.

  • Summer in Alaska on Queen Elizabeth: In 2023 Cunard will offer seven to 12-night voyages roundtrip out of Vancouver. Itineraries include scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm Fjord, as well as full days in several ports including Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Sitka and Icy Strait Point. New in 2023 is a partnership with the Royal Canadian Geographical Society featuring experts from the Society on select voyages.

  • East and Westbound Transatlantic Crossings on flagship Queen Mary 2. This iconic voyage sails New York to Southampton, England with seven nights at sea to luxuriate across the North Atlantic providing time away to disconnect and revitalize. Queen Mary 2 will also make Crossings between New York and Hamburg, Germany in 2023 and 2024.

  • The Norwegian Fjords on Queen Victoria: roundtrip out of Southampton, June 25 – July 2, 2023, will feature mesmerizing blue fjords and unbelievable waterfalls, with calls at Kristiansand, Bergen, Geiranger, and Haugesund.

For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, contact your Travel Consultant, call Cunard Line at 1-800-728-6273 or visit www.cunard.com.

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Black Friday Deals: Save 25% off European Waterways Charters Booked Nov 25-Dec 2

November 11, 2022

Save 25% off charter of European Waterways’ La Belle Epoque during the Black Friday sale.

It’s only once a year and for a very limited time. European Waterways is offering a Black Friday special of 25 percent off on charters of two of its most popular luxury hotel barge cruises in France. Representing savings of up to $16,750, the offer is available on whole boat charters of the eight-passenger Enchante’s April 2, 2023 departure on the historic Canal du Midi and the April 2, 2023 departure of the 12-passenger La Belle Epoque, which sails Northern Burgundy. It is valid only when booked between Friday, November 25 and Friday, December 2, 2022 and restrictions apply. For more information, visit EuropeanWaterways.com.
 
Black Friday Deals

With European Waterways’ Black Friday special, the April 2, 2023 charter of La Belle Epoque is $50,250, a saving of $16,750 off the whole boat price of $67,000. The April 2, 2023 charter of Enchante is $39,000, a saving of $13,000 off the regular price of $52,000.
 
Guests who charter La Belle Epoque will be treated to the world-class cuisine of France’s Northern Burgundy and explore UNESCO World Heritage sites that include the famed Abbaye de Fontenay, the oldest preserved Cistercian abbey in the world. They will visit architectural masterpieces such as the Château d’Ancy-le-Franc, which contains France’s largest collection of Renaissance murals.  Also on the itinerary is a tour of the Family-owned Champagne House Maison Taisne Riocour in the renowned wine growing region of Les Riceys as well as a visit to the Château de Ricey-Bas for a champagne aperitif and a private gastronomic lunch with its Baroness. Charters can focus on themes that include family, golf and wine appreciation and encompass activities such as walking and bicycling.
 
A hunt for truffles, wine tastings, an exploration into the unique art of making vinegar, and visits to such ancient historical sites as the medieval city of Lagrasse and the walled city of Carcassonne make the cruise on European Waterways’ Enchante among the company’s most memorable. Cruising along the Canal du Midi between the villages of Sallèles d’Aude and Narbonne in Southern France, Enchante immerses travelers in the cuisine, traditions, and fascinating history of the region.

During a tour of the famous market of Narbonne, for example, travelers will find an incredible range of fresh seafood, meat and poultry. A walk through Carcassonne – the most complete medieval fortified town in existence today – takes them back centuries to life before Roman times. They will also visit the Benedictine Abbey in the picturesque village of Lagrasse, as well as enjoy a wine tasting excursion to a local winery. For foodies, Enchante’s unique open kitchen gives them a full view of the hotel barge’s master chef as he develops the cruise’s many memorable gastronomic creations. Among available charter themes are culinary, family, golf, and wine appreciation.

About European Waterways
Hotel Barging is a boutique, unique experience that offers an immersive and all-inclusive “gentle voyage of discovery” focusing upon the culture, history, fine wine, and gourmet cuisine of the cruise regions. With a 6-to-20-person capacity and 1:2 crew ratio, European Waterways is able to provide an impeccable level of on-board service and transport its guests on intimate inland waterways that are inaccessible to larger vessels. This fascinating network of smaller canals allows for flexibility, spontaneity, and ample opportunity to hop off and explore the beautiful surroundings via bicycle, or on foot. In addition to this, there are daily, chauffeured excursions “off the beaten track” to a wide variety of enthralling locations and activities, from exquisite wine tastings to private tours of stately homes. With over 40 years’ experience and a fleet that spans nine countries, European Waterways is the largest luxury hotel barging company in Europe.

For more information, call 1-877-879-8808 in the U.S. and 1-877-574-3404 in Canada, or visit www.europeanwaterways.com.

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CruiseCompete Keeps Up to Date on Cruises Available this Summer

May 7, 2021
Major cruise lines are returning to sailing. CruiseCompete keeps track of what cruises are available © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

DETROIT  – Wondering which lines are sailing and to which destinations? CruiseCompete, an online cruise marketplace, has been working hard to keep up with the exhaustive list of cruise line itinerary changes. The best way to see sailings available is by month – June, July, August, September and more.

From June 2021 to December 2023, there are many sailings available now to book, from the rivers of the USA to the seas of the Mediterranean. The cruises and specific information are, of course, dependent on any new developments and changes in the cruise industry.

The service is simple to use: Find the desired cruise. Request quotes. Compare personalized offers, prices, upgrades, cabin credits and more. Contact member-advisors with questions and to book. If you’d like more information or assistance planning a future cruise or a cruisetour, visit CruiseCompete and try the Virtual Cruise Advisor™ or Live Help.

CruiseCompete member-advisors are among the most well-educated, forward-thinking and trusted cruise specialists in the industry. 

CruiseCompete has been the premier online cruise marketplace since 2003. Consumers come to CruiseCompete to research and book cruise vacations. They can compare offers from travel advisors, see consumer reviews of advisors and agencies responding, then contact travel advisors directly for more information and to book cruises. CruiseCompete is a member of the Family Travel Association, a resource for family travel information and is home to the Sea Tales 2021 Family Cruise Travel Planner at Travel Resources. CruiseCompete CruiseTrends™ offers monthly stats for an inside look at consumer trends and what consumers want in cruise vacations.

For more information, visit https://www.cruisecompete.com/  or  https://www.cruisecompete.com/group_cruises/

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New York Times Travel Show to Showcase Latest Global Travel Trends, Jan 24-26

January 2, 2020

At the New York Times Travel Show, travelers get a taste of cultures from around the world and meet representatives of destinations and travel companies © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

NEW YORK—Dubai Tourism, in association with Expo 2020 Dubai, will be the Presenting Sponsor of the 2020 New York Times Travel Show, to be held on January 24-26, 2020 in the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City.

Dubai Tourism will offer Travel Show attendees a variety of Dubai-focused programming and incentives during each day of the annual event, including a Dubai Focus on Travel session on Friday, January 24 for the travel trade and a presentation Saturday, January 25 for travelers.

“Together with Expo 2020, being the Presenting Sponsor at such a key show is a testament to how important the U.S. market is to Dubai,” says Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). “During the New York Times Travel Show, we are looking to engage with new partners and strengthen our relationships within the US travel trade ecosystem and to highlight Dubai’s destination proposition to American travelers.”

“In 2020, Dubai will host the World Expo, one of the biggest events held in the Middle East, South Asia and Africa,” says Sanjive Khosla, Chief Commercial Officer, Expo 2020. “As a co-Presenting-Sponsor with Dubai Tourism, we aim to increase awareness and understanding of Expo 2020 Dubai–the world’s greatest show amongst the U.S. travel audience through The New York Times Travel Show.”

The 2020 New York Times Travel Show–now in its 17th year–will open with a Trade Day exclusively for over 11,000 travel industry professionals and media on Friday, January 26; Saturday, January 26 and Sunday, January 27 will be open to over 23,000 consumer travelers, as well as to travel professionals and media. The three-day showcase will feature global cuisine tastings, cultural performances, travel book signings, one-on-one conversations with travel experts and special discounts and offers for consumers of all ages from over 750 exhibitors.

This year, Travel Show attendees will be able to partake in a variety of offerings related to travel to countless destinations and other program highlights including a Trade Day keynote panel on the state of the travel industry, moderated by James Shillinglaw; expanded Travel Products; an LGBTQ pavilion; a Family Fun stage; and much more.

Dubai Tourism in association with Expo 2020 is the Presenting Sponsor of the 2020 New York Times Travel Show. Turkish Airlines is a Platinum Sponsor; South African Tourism is a Gold Sponsor; MSC CRUISES, Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board and Greek National Tourism Organization are Silver Sponsors; and I LOVE NY is a Bronze Sponsor.

Travel Industry Association Sponsors include Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), Africa Travel Association (ATA), American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA), Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA), Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association Education Foundation (CHTAEF), Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), Destination Wedding & Honeymoon, Specialists Association (DWHSA), European Travel Commission (ETA), Family Travel Association (FTA), International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), Millennials in Travel (MIT), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Professional Travel Bloggers Association (PTBA), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Travel Goods Association (TGA), and U.S. Tour Operators Association (USTOA).

Travel Industry Media Sponsors include, GoNomad, Destination I Do Magazine, Healthy Aging Magazine, Insider Travel Report, ManAboutWorld, Passport Magazine, TAConnect, TravAlliancemedia, and Travel Market Report.

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Sail into Europe’s Holiday Markets, Festivities Aboard CroisiEurope Cruises

October 31, 2019

CroisiEurope-La Belle des Océans2 e2

CroisiEurope, a leader in European cruising, is offering many different holiday itineraries; the cruise company is also taking bookings for 2020.

CroisiEurope Cruises, one of Europe’s largest cruise lines and a leader in affordable cruising, is offering a selection of holiday itineraries. Whether it’s a traditional European Christmas market or a Christmas or New Year’s Eve experience, CroisiEurope has plenty of options to choose from. Prices for these holiday cruises start at just $512 per person and vary depending on cruise length, destination, and cabin booked.

Highlights of CroisiEurope Cruises’ 2019 holiday season programs include:

Christmas Markets Cruises: 

Christmas Cruises:

  • Christmas on the Elbe: Spend the holiday cruising along the Elbe while exploring beautiful cities like Berlin, Magdeburg, and Dresden. Prices for this 7-day trip begin at $2,360 per person.
  • Rhineland Christmas: Discover new traditions through Strasbourg and Colmar, and attend a Christmas Eve mass in Breisach. Prices for this 3-day trip begin at $696 per person.

New Year’s Cruises:

  • New Year’s in Venice: Ring in the New Year by exploring all that Venice has to offer. Travel by boat to surrounding islands like Burano and Murano for a deeper dive in Venetian history. Prices for this 5-day trip begin at $1,963 per person.
  • New Year’s on the Wild Rhine: Cruise the Rhine and make unforgettable memories exploring the Romanesque and Gothic styles of Breisach and Strasbourg. Prices for this 3-day trip begin at $736 per person.

CroisiEurope’s 2020 catalog of European and global cruises are now available to book.

Among the highlights:

Travelers who make a new 2020 European cruise reservation before October 15, 2019 will receive a 10% price reduction.

Visit http://www.croisieuroperivercruises.com to browse all cruise itineraries, departure dates, and prices.

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Loyalty Has Its Rewards for Ocean & River Voyagers

May 30, 2019

rcl-liberty-072307 086e2 (c) Karen Rubin

Royal Caribbean International’s loyalty program is the Crown & Anchor Society-Emerald, Diamond, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

DETROIT  Cruise line loyalty programs are a rewards system that earn repeat cruise travelers devoted to specific cruise lines a variety of perks such as:

  1. Special loyalty pricing, which can provide significant savings over time.
  2. Member-only activities
  3. Complimentary Wi-Fi and internet
  4. Complimentary drinks
  5. Complimentary specialty dining
  6. Concierge service and other valuable amenities
  7. Discounted room upgrades, priority check-in
  8. Access to private dinners and parties
  9. Merchandise discounts and in-cabin amenities
  10. In some cases, complimentary cruises days or longer.

Enrollment is offered the first time you cruise with a line, so remember to provide your loyalty number to your CruiseCompete member agent when you book your next cruise for increased benefits and savings.

CruiseCompete provides tips on how to find your cruise line loyalty number (there are a number of ways) and specific instructions by cruise line. To see full details, go to this page:
https://www.cruisecompete.com/cruise_line_loyalty_programs.php

There are some lines that may extend loyalty rewards to other brands owned by cruise line parent company as well. Recently, MSC Voyager’s Club announced MSC Cruises matches the status for guests’ existing cruise, travel or tour operator program with a similar or higher status, meaning travelers can instantly get benefits when joining the MSC Voyager’s Club.

Here are many of the cruise lines and their loyalty programs:

AmaWaterways (Privilege Reward Program)
Azamara Club Cruises (Le Club Voyage-Adventurer, Explorer, Discoverer)
Carnival Cruise Line (VIFP – Very Important Fun Person – Club)
Celebrity Cruises (Captain’s Club-Preview, Classic, Select, Elite, Elite Plus, Zenith)
Crystal Cruises (Crystal Society) 
Cunard (World Club)
Disney Cruise Line (Castaway Club)
Holland America Line (Mariner’s Society)
MSC Cruises (Voyagers Club)
Norwegian Cruise Line (Latitudes)
Oceania Cruises (Oceania Club)
Princess Cruises (Captain’s Circle)
Regent Seven Seas Cruises (Seven Seas Society)
Royal Caribbean International (Crown & Anchor Society-Emerald, Diamond, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle)
Seabourn (Seabourn Club)
Silversea (Silversea Venetian Society)
Viking Ocean Cruises (Viking Explorer Society)
Viking River Cruises (Viking Explorer Society)

For more information or assistance planning a future cruise or cruisetour, visit CruiseCompete and try the Virtual Cruise Advisor.

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Regent Seven Seas Adds New Immersive Luxury Cruises to Cuba for 2019

February 21, 2018

Regent Seven Seas Navigator, in New York City

Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the only North American luxury cruise line to be granted permission to offer voyages to Cuba, is adding more visits to the Caribbean island on two itineraries in 2019 and 2020. Havana is also being added into Seven Seas Navigator’s April 25, 2020 voyage, here during a recent call in New York City © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

MIAMI – Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the only North American luxury cruise line to be granted permission to offer voyages to Cuba, is adding more visits to the Caribbean island on two itineraries in 2019 and 2020. Seven Seas Mariner will offer the line’s first immersive Cuba itinerary on her October 15, 2019 voyage, calling on Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba, providing guests more opportunities to engage in group, people-to-people activities intended to enhance contact with the Cuban people, and to immerse in the island’s culture. Havana is also being added into Seven Seas Navigator’s April 25, 2020 voyage.

“We are proud to have been the first North American luxury line to call on Cuba and are delighted to offer more opportunities for travelers to visit such a historic and culture-rich destination,” said Jason Montague, president and chief executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “On these eight future sailings that visit Cuba, guests will be treated to informative presentations from experts and scholars, as well as enjoy our distinctive, highly personalized service from every member of our exceptional staff and crew.”

As part of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ most-inclusive luxury experience, guests have the widest selection of free and unlimited, expertly crafted Cuba shore excursions in compliance with the Office of Foreign Assets Control’s (OFAC) regulations. Guests can meet with the people of Cuba and explore the island’s music, art, history and culture while enjoying as many shore excursions as their time allows.

In Havana, guests can walk in the storied steps of Ernest Hemingway and learn about the city’s Baroque, neoclassical and Renaissance architecture. From Cienfuegos, guests can visit Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills) and Trinidad, both deemed World Heritage sites for their well-preserved, Colonial-era architecture, and learn about traditional pottery methods at a family-owned workshop along the way. Santiago de Cuba will offer even greater context to events that changed the course of Cuban history, where guests can visit San Juan Hill and learn about the 18th century battle which led to the end of Spanish rule.

Seven Seas Mariner made Regent’s maiden call on Havana in April 2017. Travelers can choose among eight future itineraries that offer guests an opportunity to visit Cuba. Seven Seas Mariner’s October 10, 2018 voyage, will call again on Havana on its trans-Panama Canal voyage to the South Pacific, while the ship’s new October 15, 2019 voyage will offer three Cuban ports. Caribbean itineraries that also visit Havana are Seven Seas Navigator’s November 11, 2018 and April 25, 2020 voyages; and Seven Seas Voyager’s December 6 and 16, 2018, February 6, and March 5, 2019 voyages.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers one the world’s most inclusive luxury experiences with a four-ship fleet that visits more than 450 destinations around the world. Seven Seas Mariner’s upcoming 2018 drydock refurbishment will conclude Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ $125 million refurbishment program to elevate the elegance of the whole fleet to the standard set by Seven Seas Explorer. In early 2020, Regent will launch Seven Seas Splendor. The cruise line’s fares include all-suite accommodations, round-trip business-class air on intercontinental flights from U.S. and Canada, the largest collection of free, unlimited shore excursions, unlimited internet access, highly personalized service, exquisite cuisine, fine wines and spirits, prepaid gratuities, ground transfers and one-night, pre-cruise hotel package for guests staying in Concierge-level suites and higher.

For more information about the world’s most inclusive luxury experience, or to make a reservation, contact a professional travel agent, visit www.RSSC.com, or call 1-844-4REGENT (1-844-473-4368).

 

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CLIA Highlights Cruise Destinations in Americas, Caribbean: ‘Cruise Ports in the Caribbean are Welcoming Travelers’

October 21, 2017

St Kitts

St. Kitts is receiving many of the cruise ships which had their Caribbean itineraries impacted by recent hurricanes. Explore 17th and 18th century military architecture and hike into lush rainforests. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

October is Plan a Cruise Month and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is highlighting cruise destinations in the Americas and the Caribbean. While areas in the Caribbean were recently impacted by hurricanes, the industry is reporting that close to 50 destinations are still welcoming cruise travelers. Additionally, there are several other cruise embarkation ports and destinations throughout the Americas.

“First and foremost, our hearts go out to those impacted by the hurricanes; they have been a cherished part of our cruise family for over 40 years,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, CLIA.  “Fortunately, the vast majority of ports in the Caribbean are welcoming guests, having sustained minimal or no direct damage from the storms. The Caribbean islands and destinations throughout the Americas rely on tourism and the cruise industry is dedicated to continuing to bring vacationers to these beautiful areas. I’m proud to see how many CLIA Cruise Line Members joined in the relief efforts, providing more than $30 million in financial resources, transporting families and pets as well as a variety of supplies to people in need.”

Highlights of Cruising through the Americas and the Caribbean

Diverse Destinations: From treks down the Mississippi to paddling the Panama Canal, there’s something for every type of traveler in the Americas and Caribbean.

  • Sitka, Alaska: Alaska’s “most exotic” cruise port is full of storied history that includes being home to Tlingit Native Americans and formerly acting as a major pulp mill town. Travelers can visit the totem pole park or walk along Katlian Street on the Sitka Channel waterfront, full of sights of colorful fishing boats and harbor town houses.
  • Montevideo, Uruguay: This South American port city is a hidden gem full of old and new sights to see and architecture to take in, and offers a great spot to relax during a full itinerary with monuments, restaurants, and beaches. Travelers can walk the ultra-modern Plaza Independencia main square or take in afternoon tea in historical Ciudad Vieja.
  • Quebec City, Quebec: This mostly French-speaking Canadian province offers travelers an unexpected taste of Europe with bistro and boutique-lined cobblestone streets. Adventure seekers and nature lovers can indulge in biking tours along famous waterfalls like the Montmorecny Falls, while history lovers can enjoy famed sites like the Basilique Cathedrale.
  • Bonaire, Caribbean: The B in ABC islands, Bonaire is the original leader in ecology and eco-tourism, with bustling sanctuary colonies of flamingos, wild donkeys, and sea horses. Travelers to this island off the coast of Venezuela can participate in windsurfing, kayaking, bird watching, kite boarding, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding or “diver’s paradise” activities like diving and snorkeling.
  • St. Kitts, Caribbean: This West Indies isle, originally discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, offers travelers a peek into preserved history with its 17th and 18th century military architecture. The island also offers lush rainforests, with more than a quarter of its land protected as a National Park.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: Travelers looking to kayak through glacier water or snorkel along exotic reefs can find a variety of special activities and excursions on a cruise through the Americas or Caribbean.

  • Ride the River: Vacationers yearning to experience U.S. history have a chance of following in the footsteps of Lewis & Clark while viewing classic Americana with a trip down the Columbia/Snake River, complete with trips through Hells Canyon and views of Mount St. Helens and Mount Hood.
  • Photos in Peggy’s Cove: Peggy’s Cove in Halifax is home to smooth boulders that have buoyed waves for 450 million years, in addition to perhaps the most photographed lighthouse in the world—a must-see and must-photograph spot for photo enthusiasts.
  • Roatan Rum: Rum and sweets-loving cruise travelers can take part in authentic culture with Mayan chocolate and rum cake tastings in Roatan.
  • High on the Haleakala: Nature lovers and photo buffs alike should experience the Haleakala Volcano in Maui, which rises 10,023 feet above sea level and offers some of the most beautiful volcanic sights in the world. Thrill seekers can even bike down the sides. To make the trip a once-in-a-lifetime event, travelers can also see the ahinahina plant, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Any vacation takes planning, and cruising is no different. CLIA has outlined tips for how to take the stress out of cruising in any waters, including the Americas or the Caribbean.

CLIA Travel Tips when Cruising the Americas or the Caribbean

  • Strike a Balance: Cruisers can benefit from striking a fine balance between scheduled excursions or entertainment and leaving time to relax. Travelers should be careful not to overbook their schedules on the ship or in port in order to leave room to enjoy the ship’s many amenities or sight see. Whether it b whale watching or a helicopter ride over active volcanoes, book two to three activities or excursions at most per day, with some downtime in between, when possible, to avoid travel fatigue.
  • Ask the Question: Travelers should never hesitate to stop and ask questions when in doubt. Whether questions are directed at a cruise-certified travel agent while booking a cruise, or to the ship’s staff while aboard – there are knowledgeable resources to help provide answers to any question that arises.
  • Rest Assured while Aboard: Travelers that take advantage of booking with cruise-certified travel agents can rest assured while resting up on any cruise, as a professional travel agent can help if things go wrong while cruising.

October is Plan a Cruise Month – a worldwide campaign, created by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) to learn more about cruising and how to plan and take a cruise vacation. CLIA offers insight on the best cruise destinations, special cruise line deals and promotions as well as experts to help navigate the many cruise vacation options available for every travel style and budget. Travelers can find a CLIA-certified cruise specialist at https://www.cruising.org/cruise-vacationer/cruise-travel-guide/clia-agent-finder.

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Oceania Cruises’ Newest Ship MS Sirena Makes Inaugural Call to St. Kitts

October 18, 2017

Oceania Sirena

Oceania Cruises’ MS Sirena alongside the Caribbean Princess on Tuesday at Port Zante, St. Kitts

Basseterre, St. Kitts (October 13, 2017) – Oceania Cruises’ newest cruise ship, the MS Sirena, made its inaugural visit to St. Kitts on Wednesday, October 11, bringing more than 600 visitors to the island, who enjoyed the island’s beaches, tours and many attractions.

Launched in 1999, the Sirena is one of Oceania Cruises R-class ships, together with Regatta, Insignia, and Nautica. Until 2016, the vessel was part of Princess Cruises’ fleet sailing under the name “MS Ocean Princess.”

Oceania Cruises is a Miami-based company operating a fleet of premium cruise ships world-wide. The cruise line bills itself as upper-premium line, positioned squarely between the luxury and the premium segment.

Also in port the same day was the Caribbean Princess with a maximum capacity of 3,140 passengers. Last Sunday, October 8, the Adventure of the Seas visited St. Kitts with a maximum capacity of 3,840 passengers.

An estimated 120 vessels are scheduled to visit St. Kitts from October 7 to December 31, 2017.

Several cruise lines, including Regent Seven Seas, which had itineraries that would have visited some of the more impacted Caribbean islands have modified their itineraries to call at St. Kitts.

Intoxicating natural beauty, sunny skies, warm waters, and sandy beaches combine to make St. Kitts one of the most seductive spots in the Caribbean. Located in the northern Leeward Islands, it offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history.  The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking or ziplining through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the island’s former sugar plantations, visiting the Caribelle Batik factory, and touring Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, which is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the more traditional vacation pastimes available are water sports, golf, shopping, tennis, dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on the beach.

For more information about St. Kitts, visit www.stkittstourism.kn.

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