Archive for the ‘special interest cruise’ Category

Ink or Swim: Tattoo-Themed Cruise Sails April 2015 on RCL’s Liberty of the Seas

October 14, 2014
RCL's Liberty of the Seas is the venue for Ink or Swim, a tattoo-themed cruise in April 2015 © 2014 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

RCL’s Liberty of the Seas is the venue for Ink or Swim, a tattoo-themed cruise in April 2015 © 2014 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

What may be the first-ever tattoo-themed North American cruise, Ink or Swim, will sail April 16 – 20, 2015 from Fort Lauderdale to Cozumel, Mexico on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas®. Produced by REBEL INK, the popular magazine highlighting tattoo lifestyle and ink culture, and award-winning photographer Dan Howell, the first annual cruise will offer guests the exclusive opportunity to sail the high seas while getting ‘fresh ink’ from some of the most in-demand artists in the country, as well attend exclusive Ink or Swim events including onboard Burlesque shows, tattoo contests, complimentary photo shoots and a private beach party in Cozumel.

An impressive roster of tattoo artists will anchor the cruise at Tattoo Alley, an onboard body art showcase and inking experience. Artists already confirmed include: Tatu Baby, voted as one of the world’s sexiest and talented artists and a fan favorite of Spike TV’s “Ink Master”; Sarah Miller, the award-winning owner of famed Wyld Child Tattoo Shop in Pittsburgh, PA and known for her realism style body art; Mark Longenecker, an avid surfer and philanthropist and owner of Endless Summer Tattoo in Cocoa Beach, FL; Amy Nicoletto, the gothic princess of the tattoo world and overnight sensation opposite Kat Von D on “LA Ink”; and Chris Torres, the bad boy of the tattoo industry known for his renowned old-school style and recently opened tat shop, Red Legged Devils in Brooklyn, NY.

“From new reality shows to a growing celebrity status amongst tattoo artists, the ink culture in this country has grown significantly, with recent polls suggesting nearly 20 percent of Americans have a least one tattoo,” says Paul Gambino, Editor-in-Chief of REBEL INK magazine. “With Ink or Swim, we’re creating a brand new concept for an evolving audience, merging the popularity of a classic tattoo conference with an exclusive vacation experience. And in many cases, Ink or Swim guests will be able to jump ahead months or even years in the waiting line to get ink from their favorite artist.”

Bookable online via the Ink or Swim website, rates begin at $970 per person, based on double occupancy and include all Ink or Swim activities, amenities and exclusive events, as well a $100 credit toward an onboard tattoo for the 1st and 2nd guests in each room. In addition to the Ink or Swim experience, rates will also offer guests four nights aboard Royal Caribbean’s recently renovated Liberty of the Seas and access to its 10 restaurants, cafes and lounges, 10 pools and whirlpools including FlowRider® surf simulator, Broadway-style musicals, a Vegas-style casino and complimentary ice shows throughout the cruise. For more information, visit www.inkorswimtattoocruise.com.

 

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

New: Moral Compass: Great Places to Go Where the Going Does Good

moralcompasstravel.info

Check out our newest travel site for special deals, insiders’ tips at tidbitts.com: http://www.tidbitts.com/karen-rubin/where-in-the-world

Ship of Fear: A Horror Cruise Sets Sail for Halloween

October 24, 2012

The most terrifying villains from the greatest fright films of all time turn the high seas into their newest hunting ground next Halloween when the very first SHIP OF FEAR: A HORROR CRUISE, hosted by Tom Holland, sets sail in October 2013. Led by the Architect of Shock Rock, Alice Cooper, directors and actors from genre-defining films including Child’s Play, Candyman, Phantasm, Fright Night, The Lost Boys, Gremlins, Friday the 13th, The Howling, Pet Sematary and morewill roam the decks with macabre illusionists, performance artists and rock stars for five full-moonlit nights of madness for horror fans aboard.

Launched by ECP, the world’s largest independent cruise production company, and StarVista, THE SHIP OF FEAR (a full ship charter) departs on its maiden voyage from Miami, FL on October 28, 2013. The Carnival Victory will sail Halloween week with stops in Nassau, Half Moon Cay and Freeport before returning to Miami on November 2nd. Horror/thriller network Chiller has joined the cruise as a presenting sponsor, running extensive promotions on the network, onboard events and establishing co-branding opportunities.

“Ship of Fear is a culmination of everything I love about the horror genre; the movies, the monsters, the special effects and especially the fans,” says film writer/director and cruise host Tom Holland. “What we have in store will be unlike any other convention experience out there – we’re planning an immersive experience for devotees that includes panels and screenings of many beloved genre classics, horror-themed parties and costume contests as well as daily signings and other special events including bringing five of the Masters of Horror together in front of their fans for a rare group appearance.”

THE SHIP OF FEAR will pay homage to the horror genre in all forms; from daily panels and classic horror film reunions (featuring appearances by many of the genre’s biggest names in front of and behind the camera) to costume contests, live talent demonstrations and more. The non-stop fun features appearances by stars Zach Galligan (“Gremlins, Hatchet 3”), Reggie Bannister (“Phantasm” series), R.A. “Leatherface” Mihailoff, Ed “Chucky” Gale, Kane “Jason” Hodder, Tony “Candyman” Todd, Belinda Balaski (“The Howling”) and directors Tom Holland (Fright Night, Child’s Play), Don Coscarelli (“Phantasm,” “The Beastmaster,” “Bubba Ho-Tep”), Mick Garris (television’s “Masters of Horror,” “The Stand,” “Freddy’s Nightmares”), Joe Dante (The Howling, Piranha, Gremlins), and Mary Lambert (Pet Sematary) as well as live musical performances by Alice Cooper, Dee Snider and Corey Feldman and Truth Movement. On the Ship of Fear, the terror never ends!

Cruisers aboard the Ship of Fear will also be able to go behind the scenes with some of Hollywood’s best special effects and make-up artists and join performance artists such as the irreverent steam-punk, zombie hunting team, League of S.T.E.A.M. Horror fans will be captivated by illusionists, nightly movie screenings with Q&A’s, an amateur horror film festival, party it up during “Screech on the Beach” (held on Carnival’s own private island), a Zombie Prom on Halloween night and meet with many more surprises.

Reservations for cabins on this cruise may be made now by visiting www.ShipOfFear.com or calling (toll free) 855-770-1313. Special “before dawn” cabin rates will be in effect until December 31, 2012 and start at $729 per person. Rates include all meals, concerts, entertainment and onboard activities.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Crystal Cruises Triples Ambassador Host Dance Partners for March 31 ‘Big Band and Ballroom Dance’ Voyage

October 9, 2012

Ultra-luxury specialist Crystal Cruises has tripled the number of its Ambassador Host dance partners, from the normal four aboard every sailing, to 12 for its March 31 “Big Band and Ballroom Dance” voyage. The Experience of Discovery cruise will also have double the usual amount of dance instructors on board, along with the legendary Glenn Miller Orchestra to keep toes tapping. The Miami-Lisbon voyage aboard the award-winning Crystal Serenity provides an easy U.S. departure for Americans and easy return home for Europeans, with an average all-inclusive – yet value-priced — rate starting at just $221/person per day.

Crystal’s gentlemen Ambassador Hosts serve as engaging dancing, dining, and conversation partners for solo women during their cruise. Hosts are also available to accompany women on the dance floor whose companions might not be dancers. The social hosting services are complimentary, as are all musical theme activities, including daily intro and advanced dance classes teaching everything from classical ballroom to Latin favorites and swing.

The 17+-piece Glenn Miller Orchestra and vocalists will also play into the wee hours nightly, providing a lively soundtrack of timeless hits. Numerous grand and intimate spaces on board, including Palm Court, Stardust Lounge, Pulse nightclub, and the central atrium near the Cove Bar, serve as on board music and dancing venues during the cruise.

“Big Band and Ballroom Dance is hotter than ever now, and our music cruises are always among our most popular voyages, packed with fun,” says Bret Bullock, vice president of entertainment. “Solo travelers feel comfortable sailing Crystal because we offer so many ways to socialize with others, from dining to dancing. On this particular cruise, we will have plenty of dance partners to go around.”

Also featured during the 10-day sailing are new Magic Castle at Sea shows and Crystal’s newly-released Elton John tribute production, Rocket Man.

The classic Trans-Atlantic luxury cruise provides ample days at sea to fully enjoy the indulgent Crystal resort experience, with a call in sub-tropical Madeira/Funchal, Portugal en route. Fares booked by October 31 start at $2,210/person, double occupancy, with $1000/person in “Book Now” savings. Known for one of the lowest solo supplements in the industry, Crystal’s sole occupancy rates for this cruise start at $3,015/person.

Crystal Cruises’ award-winning entertainment offerings include a range of venues and performances, from cabaret nightclub to piano bar saloon; acclaimed productions to headline entertainers; and sophisticated enrichment activities to in-room Blu-ray-viewing, for all world travelers.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Food & Wine Trails Offers 12 New Cruises for 2013

October 4, 2012

Food & Wine Trails has released details of 12 new food and wine cruises for 2013, filled with opportunities to drink the best wines, experience great meals and travel with top wine and food personalities.

Among the highlights:

  • A multi-course, wine-paired dinner at Chateau Smith Haut-Lafite in Bordeaux hosted by star Napa winemaker David Ramey who has previously worked in Bordeaux – on the Oceania Nautica June 13-20 Lisbon to London cruise.
  • A vertical library tasting of Duckhorn’s acclaimed Merlot, with founder Margaret Duckhorn – on the June 26 to July 3 Azamara Journey Rome to Monte Carlo cruise.
  • A private wine-maker hosted luncheon at a top Chateauneuf-du-Pape winery served by a Michelin starred chef on the Azamara Journey July 3-11 Monte Carlo to Barcelona cruise.
  • A tour of the Grgich family winery in Croatia with Violet Grgich – on the Oceania Riviera Sept 7-19 Venice to Barcelona cruise.

The value of a Food & Wine Trails cruise becomes apparent when viewed against a comparable land-based culinary vacation. Whereas a typical price for a land-based wine program is $4,000 to $5,000 per week per person, the price of a similar length Food & Wine Trails wine cruise starts at $2,274. This includes the cruise cost with transportation to and within Europe, all meals and entertainment, plus an exclusive to the group wine experience with winemaker dinners, parties, receptions and educational wine tastings.

The mission of Food & Wine Trails is to provide authenticity, value and access to the world’s best food and wine travel experiences. Each program is led or organized by a recognized local culinary expert to provide the guest with insight, access and a behind-the-kitchen (or cellar) door experience. Food & Wine Trails is the tour division of the HMS Travel Group, a 25-year-old company based in Santa Rosa, California. The company designs culinary travel programs for enthusiasts and for the creme of the food and wine world, producing programs for Julia Child, Jacques Pepin, and many of America’s top food magazines and wineries. Larry Martin, the president of Food & Wine Trails, is a wine collector, vegetable gardener and the Northern California Regional Governor for Slow Food, an international food advocacy organization. The editors of Conde Nast Traveler Magazine have chosen Martin as World’s Top Wine Travel Specialist for three consecutive years.

Contact Food & Wine Trails at 800 367-5348, or info@foodandwinetrails.com. A complete list of 2013 wine cruises can be found at www.foodandwinetrails.com/cruises.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Fuel Your Need For Speed With Kensington’s Custom VIP Tours To The 2012 F1 Austin Grand Prix

August 18, 2012

Get into the most anticipated racing event of the season, the 2012 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix on November 15th with Kensington Tours’ exclusive adrenaline-fueled itineraries to the new Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. Ideal for racing aficionados, automobile enthusiasts and corporate entertaining, these high performance packages come at a variety of prices and are easily customized with VIP upgrades, themed extras and Texas sized indulgences.

“With the Circuit of the Americas being the first purpose built Formula 1 track in the history of the USA, the Austin Grand Prix is destined to be the racing event of the decade,” says Marsha Pautler, Director of Kensington’s Championship Series which offers tours to the most coveted sporting tournaments in the world. “We are proud to offer Grand Prix fans the opportunity to be a part of history in the making at this epic event.”

With hotels, hospitality and seats booking fast, it’s time to rev up the planning if you plan on making the race.

Austin Grand Prix High Performance Packages Include:

Starting Line Premium Grandstands
5 Days from $4,995 per person

An adrenaline fueled adventure to the F1 Austin Grand Prix. Speed past long lines with a VIP pass, see the drivers in person and toast the winner at the champagne presentation. Featuring premium seats to practice laps, qualifying rounds, the official race day, stylish hotel, transfers to the track and more!
http://www.kensingtontours.com/Tours/North-America/United-States/Texas/5-Day-Austin-Grand-Prix—Starting-Line-Premium-Grandstands

Finish Line Grandstands
5 Days from $6,095 per person

If you have a need for speed this action packed tour to the F1 Austin Grand Prix is the ticket! Spend 3 days on the Finish Line Grandstands at the USA’s most prestigious racetrack, the new Circuit of the Americas. Meet F1 royalty, avoid lines with VIP access, lunch with other racing aficionados and behold the magic of Formula 1 firsthand. Includes stylish hotel, transfers and more.
http://www.kensingtontours.com/Tours/North-America/United-States/Texas/5-Day-Austin-Grand-Prix—Finish-Line-Grandstands

Finish Line Club Level Seating
5 Days from $8,500 per person

Everything’s bigger in Texas and that includes Formula 1! Go big or go home with this high performance adventure featuring 3 days at the new Circuit of the Americas. Watch the Practice Laps, Qualify Rounds and Race Day. From club level seats by the finish line, open bar, gourmet meals and VIP line pass, to mingling with F1 drivers, gifts, champagne, transfers, 4-star hotels and more, this tour is a guaranteed win. http://www.kensingtontours.com/Tours/North-America/United-States/Texas/5-Day-Austin-Grand-Prix—Finish-Line-Club-Level-Seating

 

VIP Paddocks & Privileges
5 Days from $11,995 per person
With more luxuries than can be listed, if you’re looking for the ultimate Texas F1 experience this is it. Go full gear with this exclusive VIP package. Watch each day’s races from Pit Row otherwise known as the elite Paddock Club, meander through F1 Village, enjoy behind the scenes access, shake hands with your favorite drivers and celebrate with champagne alongside the winner in the VIP area. Includes elegant hotel, private chauffeured transfers and more!

http://www.kensingtontours.com/Tours/North-America/United-States/Texas/5-Day-Austin-Grand-Prix—VIP-Paddocks

 

Kensington Tours offers custom and private guided tours to over 90 countries worldwide. The flexibility of Kensington’s offerings results in tailor-made journeys that are carefully handcrafted to deliver personalized adventures like no other company. Kensington Tours was named to “World’s Best Awards 2011” by Travel + Leisure Magazine and named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth,” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure Magazine.

For more information, visit www.KensingtonTours.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

‘Oak Ridge Boys Rally at Sea’ Cruise Sets Sail February 28-March 4

July 17, 2012

Set sail with The Oak Ridge Boys for a four-night voyage onboard the Celebrity Constellation sailing from Miami to the Caribbean from February 28 – March 4, 2013.

Set sail with The Oak Ridge Boys for a four-night voyage onboard the Celebrity Constellation sailing from Miami to the Caribbean from February 28 – March 4, 2013.

The cruise is packed with exclusive activities and special events, including two concerts featuring some of the group’s biggest hits, a welcome reception hosted by the Oak Ridge Boys, meet & greet session, 40th anniversary celebration and much more. Plus, there’ll be plenty of time for poolside relaxation along with other onboard happenings and entertainment. You’ll be able to take breathtaking tours, adventurous excursions and stroll along sun-soaked beaches in Key West and Cozumel.

“Sail away with us during the Oaks’ Rally at Sea. Request and hear the songs you want to hear, ask the question you never got to ask, attend the exclusive “fans only” show where you pick the songs and learn things you never knew about the group and each individual member,” says lead singer Duane Allen. “Hear some of the inside secrets on how to make it in the music business from our legendary manager, Jim Halsey. Also, have your photo made with the Oaks on the cruise ship. There’ll even be a very special show featuring the Mighty Oaks Band,” he adds.

Member Joe Bonsall says the voyage will offer fans an experience of a lifetime. “I really believe this cruise will be the coolest thing we have ever done! We are coming up with new ideas every day on how to make this the greatest Oak Ridge Boys experience EVER for those who sail with us and, of course, there IS the Caribbean!”

The Celebrity Constellation cruise featuring the Oak Ridge Boys will depart from Miami, dock in Key West and Cozumel while navigating the deep blue sea. Celebrity Cruises line offers impeccable service and amenities, including spa treatments, shops and casinos. It is among the top-rated in the travel industry.

For more information or to book online, visit www.oakridgeboys.com or call: (888-711-7447.

Oak Ridge Boys Rally at Sea Itinerary

Day 1 – Thursday, February 28th

4:30 p.m. Sail from Miami

4:30-6:00 p.m. “Rally at Sea” Welcome Reception

Day 2 – Friday, March 1st

7:00 a.m. Dock in Key West

1:30 p.m. Sail from Key West

4:00-5:30 p.m. Meet & Greet with The Oak Ridge Boys
Guests will have the opportunity to have their photo taken with the Oaks.

6:30 p.m. Dinner for all “Rally at Sea” guests

9:00 p.m. A Very Special Concert: By Request Only
There’ll be 90 minutes of entertainment as you’ve never experienced it! Guests will have the opportunity to request songs in advance.

Day 3 – Saturday, March 2nd

11:30 a.m. Dock in Cozumel

8:30 p.m. Sail from Cozumel

10:30 p.m. Late Night Jam with The Mighty Oaks Band in the ship lounge.
Casual fun for everyone over 21!

Day 4 – Sunday, March 3rd

A day at sea!

10:00 a.m.-12:00p.m. 40th Anniversary Celebration
Nostalgic video reels, games and a special presentation by ORB Manager and Impresario Jim Halsey.

1:00-3:00 p.m. ORB University: Q & A Session
Lighthearted fun and storytelling!

3:20-4:00 p.m. Oak Ridge Boys Gospel & Country
A mini-concert of The Oak Ridge Boys’ personal gospel and
country favorites.

5:30-6:30 p.m. “Sail Away” Farewell Reception

Day 5 – Monday, March 4th

7 a.m. Dock in Miami

4 Public Broadcasting Cruises Set: An Epic Civil War Journey, Iberian Tapestries, Washington Week–Election 2012 and Public Radio at Sea

July 17, 2012

Crown Cruise Vacations, a preferred vendor of PTV at Sea events, and Artful Travelers, producers of PTV at Sea, present four public broadcasting educational adventures at sea.

This is a special opportunity to cruise while meeting and interacting with fascinating experts and their featured guests at panel discussions and presentations in the areas of history, politics, culture, personal finance, health and wellness and more.

The insight and experience of these special guests are unparalleled and not available anywhere else in the world. Public Radio at Sea – and its celebration of NPR – is, quite simply, a journey unlike any other.

Additionally, private dinners and cocktail receptions allow for one-to-one conversations during an unforgettable voyage where you will have the opportunity to meet some very interesting people who may never cross your path otherwise.

Public Radio at Sea enriches, inspires and entertains with informative programming, presented by some of National Public Radio’s most acclaimed personalities.

Voyage 1 – EPIC CIVIL WAR JOURNEY– New Orleans to Chattanooga, Tenn., Aug. 9-21, 2012

Celebrate PBS’ award-winning history series American Experience in luxury, aboard the newly refurbished American Queen steamboat.

The adventure sails Aug. 9-21, 2012 (12 nights, 10 aboard plus pre- and post-voyage luxury hotel stay), from New Orleans to Chattanooga, Tenn., on the American Queen steamboat, owned and operated by the Great American Steamboat Company.

Join as Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ric Burns and acclaimed producer Mark Samels, of television’s longest-running and most-watched history series, American Experience, present the Epic Civil War Journey. This is a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and premiere the highly-anticipated documentary “Death and the Civil War.”

Based on the best-selling book This Republic of Suffering: Death and the American Civil War by noted historian and Harvard University President Drew Gilpin Faust, the highly-anticipated documentary examines how the unprecedented death toll of the Civil War challenged American cultural attitudes about death and changed federal government policies regarding soldiers.

The Epic Civil War Journey will sail the historically rich waters of the Mississippi and Tennessee rivers, with a number of fascinating ports of call along the way allowing passengers the opportunity to explore the famed locations and battlegrounds that shaped the future of the United States of America. Burns, Samels and other special guests will share their vast knowledge on the Civil War, giving passengers extraordinary insight into both the film and a conflict that shaped the American past and present.

Prices begin at $3,995 per passenger (based on double occupancy) and include one-night luxury hotel stay both before and after sailing, land tours, multiple dining options, beverages, including fine wine, beer and spirits, and more, plus complimentary travel insurance when booked with Crown Cruise Vacations. Additional taxes and fees may apply.

Voyage 2 – IBERIAN TAPESTRIES – Barcelona to Lisbon, Aug. 13-23, 2012

Experience the best of public broadcasting aboard Regent Seven Seas’ luxurious all-suite, all-balcony ship, the Regent Seven Seas Mariner, sailing Aug.13-23, 2012 (10 nights), from Barcelona to Lisbon.

The adventure, traveling to incredible seaside ports in Spain, Morocco and Portugal, allows travelers exclusive access to some of the country’s most fascinating people – those with their fingers on the pulse of politics, history, current events, finance, and the arts.

While aboard, examine the fascinating 2012 electoral race, celebrate the brightest stars of Hollywood and discuss today’s most pressing social issues with special guests, including Robert Siegel of All Things Considered; David Fanning of Frontline; Charlie Cook of The Cook Political Report; and Michael Childers, acclaimed photographer of over 200 magazine covers.

Prices begin at $7,994 per passenger (based on double occupancy) and include return economy airfare, luxury hotel package, unlimited shore excursions, beverages, including fine wine, beer and spirits, complimentary travel insurance when booked with Crown Cruise Vacations and more. Additional taxes and fees may apply.

Voyage 3 – WASHINGTON WEEK / ELECTION 2012 – St. Louis, Mo., to St. Paul, Minn., Sept. 28-Oct. 5, 2012

A special voyage for friends of PBS’ acclaimed Washington Week, American television’s longest-running prime-time news and public affairs program.

This voyage sails Sept. 28, 2012, (seven nights) from St. Louis, Mo., to St. Paul, Minn. on the American Queen steamboat, owned and operated by the Great American Steamboat Company.

During the 2012 election season, Washington Week is expanding its grassroots outreach to viewers and voters by collaborating with local PBS stations for a series of Election 2012 Town Hall Events. It’s an opportunity for citizens from across the country to share their beyond-the-beltway viewpoints and become part of the national dialogue with Gwen Ifill and a roundtable of award-winning journalists.

Aboard this exclusive river cruise, join Managing Editor and best-selling author Gwen Ifill – along with a panel of America’s most engaging and insightful political analysts – as Washington Week sails the waters of the Mississippi. This early fall voyage salutes nature’s rich palette of reds, oranges and golds. During steamboating days, fascinating presentations from our esteemed guests will examine pressing political and cultural topics – from Election 2012 to current events to fine art.

Prices begin at $2,995 per passenger ((based on double occupancy) and include complimentary land tours, insurance, beverages, including fine wine, beer and spirits, and more. Additional taxes and fees apply. (A one-night luxury hotel stay is included in the voyage fare and can be added to either the start or end of your voyage to facilitate ease of transportation.)

The voyage aboard the newly-refurbished American Queen steamboat will launch with an exciting taping of the popular series in St. Louis, Missouri. Be a part of public television in the making as Ifill and her expert panelists discuss and examine the topics of the day – just weeks shy of a critical election.

Voyage 4 – PUBLIC RADIO AT SEA – Beijing to Bangkok, March 16-April 1, 2013

This unique travel experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to meet and mingle with several of NPR’s most dynamic journalists, including Special Correspondent Michele Norris, aboard the luxurious all-suite, all-balcony ship, Regent’s Seven Seas Voyager, sailing March 16-April 1, 2013 (16 nights), from Beijing to Bangkok

The adventure visits ports in China, Vietnam and Thailand, allowing plenty of time for passengers to learn from and talk with some of the country’s most enthralling people – those with their fingers on the pulse of politics, history, current events, finance and the arts.

Interact with NPR journalists and their featured guests at panel discussions and presentations on politics, culture, personal finance, health and wellness and more. Additionally, in-depth Q & A sessions, dinners and cocktail receptions allow for more conversation throughout this unforgettable voyage. The insight and experience of these special guests is unparalleled and not available anywhere else in the world. Public Radio at Sea – and its celebration of NPR – is, quite simply, a journey unlike any other.

Prices begin at $12,349 per passenger (based on double occupancy) and include return economy airfare, 3-day pre- or post-cruise land program, unlimited shore excursions, beverages, including fine wine, beer and spirits, complimentary travel insurance when booked with Crown Cruise Vacations and more. Additional taxes and fees may apply.

To receive the amenities listed above, one must contact and book with Crown Cruise Vacations or, for more information about these exclusive PTV at Sea events, contact Crown Cruise Vacations, exclusive provider in partnership with Artful Travelers, promoters of PTV at Sea cruises. Reservations can be made directly with Crown Cruise Vacations by calling toll-free 855-788-7880 (USA/Canada) or emailing ptvinfo@crowncruisevacations.com.

For more travel features, visit:

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Food & Wine Trails 2013 Wine Cruises Include One Featuring Tenuta dell’ Ornellaia Wine Events

July 10, 2012

Food & Wine Trails has announced their 2013 wine cruise series, with eleven adventures hosted by top California wineries and one hosted by one of Italy’s most famous wineries.

The 2013 California winery hosts include V.Sattui Winery, Martinelli Vineyards & Winery traveling with Foxen Winery, Mira Winery traveling with Ideology Cellars, Ramey Wine Cellars, Domaine Chandon, Sojourn Cellars, Duckhorn Vineyards, Tablas Creek Vineyard, Grigch Hills Estate and Cameron Hughes Wine.

On their Fourth Annual Wine Voyage, FOOD & WINE Magazine has partnered with the Italian Super Tuscan Tenuta dell’ Ornellaia. One of the few wineries in the world to receive a perfect 100/100 score from Wine Spectator, Ornellaia will be providing their wines for the onboard events including tastings and a wine-paired dinner.

These cruises sail the Mediterranean between April and October, because according to Food & Wine Trails President Larry Martin, It’s the ancestral home to today’s wines and the best time of year to visit. When combined with the region’s natural beauty and popularity of the Mediterranean lifestyle and diet, it is no wonder that the Med has always the most popular destination for the food and wine lover.”

All Food and Wine Trails’ cruises include a private onboard wine program, and extras such as free or included gratuities, a $100 early-booking shipboard credit and discounted or free airfare from the US to Europe. Each cruise is held on a small to mid-size Oceania Cruises or Azamara Club Cruises ship, and is hosted by winemakers or winery principals.

Martin explains, “It’s important for us to offer great content and personal access to the movers and shakers of the wine-industry. All our programs not only include private tastings of library and current vintages, exclusive group parties, and winery hosted dinners, they also allow the guest to visit top wine estates while in port for private tours and luncheons. This makes each wine cruise a unique and educational experience.”

Stateroom prices for Food & Wine Trails’ 2013 wine cruises start at $1985 per person (double occupancy) with departures from April 21st with V.Sattui Winery through October 11th with FOOD & WINE Magazine and Tenuta dell’ Ornellaia.

Food and Wine Trails, 707A 4th Street, Santa Rosa CA 95404, 707-526-2922, foodandwinetrails.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

                                                                               

12-night River Voyage Aboard American Queen Steamboat With Historians Commemorates 150th Anniversary of Civil War

March 30, 2012

A 12-night Epic Civil War Journey aboard the American Queen sails the historically-rich waters of the Mississippi and Tennessee rivers, with a number of fascinating ports of call along the way allowing passengers the opportunity to explore the famed locations and battlegrounds that shaped the future of the United States of America, including Vicksburg, MS, with its famous Civil War battlefield © 2012 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Crown Cruise Vacations, preferred provider of PTV at Sea events, and Artful Travelers, producers of PTV at Sea, are presenting a celebration of the American Experience to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and premiere the highly-anticipated documentary “This Republic of Suffering.”

The Epic Civil War Journey sails the historically-rich waters of the Mississippi and Tennessee rivers, with a number of fascinating ports of call along the way allowing passengers the opportunity to explore the famed locations and battlegrounds that shaped the future of the United States of America.

This 12-night voyage begins on Aug. 9, 2012, with 2 days of steamboating and ports of call to include: New Orleans, LA, Vicksburg, MS, Helena, AK, Memphis, TN, Ashport Landing, TN, Paducah, KY, Savannah, TN, Decatur, AL and Chattanooga, TN

Passengers will sail aboard the newly-refurbished American Queen steamboat, which will premiere “This Republic of Suffering,” the latest production by American Experience, weeks ahead of its national debut on PBS stations across the country. Based on the best-selling book This Republic of Suffering: Death and the American Civil War by noted historian and Harvard University President Drew Gilpin Faust, the highly-anticipated documentary examines how the unprecedented death toll of the Civil War challenged American cultural attitudes about death and changed federal government policies regarding soldiers.

Passengers join Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ric Burns and acclaimed producer Mark Samels as television’s longest-running and most-watched history series American Experience presents the Epic Civil War Journey. Burns, Samels and other special guests will share their vast knowledge, premiering and discussing the upcoming PBS production with passengers aboard. Combining learning, luxury and leisure, this sailing will truly be unlike any other.

Esteemed guests for this  American Experience voyage include…

Ric Burns has been writing, directing and producing historical documentaries for nearly 20 years. He is best known for his epic series New York: A Documentary Film (1999-2003), which premiered nationally on PBS to wide public and critical acclaim as an eight-part, seventeen and a half hour film that chronicles the city’s rise from a tiny Dutch trading post down through its continuing preeminence as the undisputed economic and cultural capital of the world. The first episodes earned the prestigious Alfred I. du Pont-Columbia University award for excellence in broadcast journalism, an Emmy for outstanding achievement in non-fiction editing, and two other Emmy nominations, for outstanding non-fiction special and achievement in cinematography.

In 2002, episode seven of the series was awarded the American Cinema Editors award for best edited documentary, as well the Cine Golden Eagle Award. The eighth and final episode received an Emmy and an Alfred I. du Pont-Columbia University Award, among other awards.

Burns began his career collaborating on the celebrated PBS series The Civil War, (1990), which he produced with his brother Ken, and wrote with Geoffrey C. Ward. Since founding Steeplechase Films in 1989, he has directed some of the most distinguished programs in the award-winning public television series, American Experience, including Coney Island (1991), The Donner Party (1992), The Way West (1995), Ansel Adams (2002) and Eugene O’Neill (March 2006). Most recently he wrote, produced and directed Andy Warhol for the PBS series American Masters (September 2006). For his work on Andy Warhol, Burns was awarded a 2006 Peabody Award, and a 2006 Primetime Emmy Award. Burns is co-author, with James Sanders and Lisa Ades, of New York: An Illustrated History, the companion book to the New York series, as well as co-author, with Geoffrey C. Ward and Ken Burns, of the companion book to The Civil War. Both books are published by Alfred A. Knopf. Burns was educated at Columbia University and Cambridge University.

Mark Samels is executive producer of American Experience, PBS’s flagship history series. Produced by WGBH/Boston, American Experience is television’s most-watched and longest-running history series. Under Samels’ leadership, the series has been honored with nearly every industry award, including the Peabody, Primetime Emmys, the duPont-Columbia Journalism Award, Writers Guild Awards, Oscar nominations, and Sundance Film Festival Audience and Grand Jury Awards.

Samels has overseen the production of more than 100 films for the series, focusing on stories from America’s past that are highly resonant in the world today. He has expanded both the breadth of subjects and the filmmaking style embraced by the series, allowing for more contemporary topics and more witness-driven storytelling. In addition to his public television work, Samels is a founding member of the International Documentary Association and has served on the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Nonfiction Peer Group.

Also appearing…

  • Brian Still Wills, historian
  • James I. “Bud” Robertson, Jr., historian
  • Barry Meadows, tribute artist: General Ulysses S. Grant
  • Al Stone, tribute artist: General Robert E. Lee
  • Cathy Barton & Dave Para, Civil War era musicians
  • Bobby Horton, Civil War historian & musician

Crown Cruise Vacations and Artful Travelers are presenting this educational PTV at Sea adventure, celebrating PBS’ award-winning history series American Experience in luxury, aboard the newly refurbished American Queen.

Epic Civil War Journey Voyage Fares special promotion fare ranges from $2,895 to $8,495, depending on the cabin category and number of guests. To participate in all exclusive Epic Civil War Journey events and activities, reservations must be made directly with Crown Cruise Vacations by calling toll free 855-788-7880. Fares include a complimentary one-night luxury hotel stay both before and after sailing, complimentary shore adventures, complimentary multiple dining options, complimentary beverages, including wine, beer and spirits and much more.

Contact Crown Cruise Vacations, exclusive provider in partnership with Artful Travelers, promoters of PTV at Sea cruises. Reservations can be made directly with Crown Cruise Vacations by calling toll-free 855-788-7880 (USA/Canada) or emailing ptvinfo@crowncruisevacations.com.

OPRY COUNTRY CLASSICS CRUISE TO SAIL ON RCL’S FREEDOM OF THE SEAS JAN. 30

August 7, 2010
RCL Freedom of the Seas

Opry Country Classics Cruise sails Jan. 30 – Feb. 6, 2011 aboard Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas to the Eastern Caribbean © 2010 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Fans of the most treasured songs in country music history are in for a treat when the Opry Country Classics Cruise sails Jan. 30 – Feb. 6, 2011 aboard Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas to the Eastern Caribbean.

The music-filled, seven-night adventure features Grand Ole Opry stars Charley Pride, Jim Ed Brown and Jeannie Seely. Additionally, newcomer Chris Young, nominated for the Top New Solo Vocalist award by the Academy of Country Music, will be part of the line-up along with special guest Helen Cornelius. This marks the Opry’s 14th annual cruise and its first on Royal Caribbean International.

A full casino, deck activities including a FlowRider surf simulator, nine-hole miniature golf course, dancing, first-run movies, and gourmet dining also are included. All meals in Freedom of the Seas’ main dining room and Windjammer Café, including a special “Welcome Aboard” party with the Captain and a gala Bon Voyage Dinner are included.

Departing from Port Canaveral, the cruise visits three ports of call: St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in the Bahamas.

“We always have the time of our lives meeting the fans and enjoying our fellow artists’ music on board the Opry Cruise,” Pride said. “It looks like the 2011 cruise is going to be better than ever.”

“Royal Caribbean International looks forward to welcoming the stars of the Grand Ole Opry and guests aboard Freedom of the Seas,” said Vicki Freed, senior vice president of Sales, Trade Support and Services, Royal Caribbean International. “In addition to the exciting Opry Country Classics line-up, guests will enjoy a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean aboard one of the world’s most innovative cruise ships.”

At 160,000 gross registered tons, Freedom of the Seas has a capacity of 3,634 guests at double occupancy. In addition to the exclusive Freedom-class amenities, the ship also features the cruise line’s exclusive amenities such as the Studio B ice-skating rink; full-size basketball and sports court; iconic rock-climbing wall; and the Royal Promenade, a boulevard that runs nearly the length of the ship, lined with boutiques, restaurants, and bars and lounges.

Prices for the Opry Country Classics Cruise start at $1,158 per person, government taxes and fees are additional. To book this cruise and participate in all the private Opry functions, contact Corporate Travel Service Inc. at 866-653-OPRY (6779). For more information on each artist on the cruise, details about ports of call, on board activities, visit oprycruise.com.

For full coverage of Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas, see:

RCL’S DAZZLING FREEDOM OF THE SEAS:
Biggest, Most Innovative Cruise Ship Afloat Offers Everything & More