Jason

SEATTLE, April 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- For travelers who appreciate taking an inclusive vacation with extra amenities factored upfront into the price, Holland America Line is launching a new "Have It All" premium package that includes shore excursions, beverages, specialty dining and Wi-Fi in one base cruise fare. 
Available year-round on all itineraries six days or longer except Grand Voyages, "Have It All" is valued at $99 per guest, per day, for a seven-day cruise, and "Have it All" cruise fares represent incredible savings of 50% or more off the included amenities compared to purchasing them individually. "Have it All" fares will be available for booking April 21, 2021. 
"We conducted extensive research with experienced cruisers and travel partners to understand what they find most valuable when purchasing a cruise and the results overwhelmingly pointed toward one simple fare that included our top amenities," said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. "Our past promotions that offered these perks have been extremely popular, so we created a premium package that is available all the time and on nearly all our cruises." 
More Value and Convenience with "Have It All"
In addition to all of the amenities that typically come with a standard cruise fare, "Have It All" also includes four high-value extras in the fare with more amenities as the length of cruise increase.
Cruises of 6 to 9 days:
One shore excursion up to $100 value or $100 off any one tour for all guests in a stateroom. Choose from among thousands of tours all over the world – from active ziplining adventures to immersive, historical explorations.  Signature Beverage Package for all guests in a stateroom. Enjoy a large selection of wine, beer, spirits, cocktails, soda, coffee and more. Up to 15 drinks per day allowed, and bar service charges are included.  One night award-winning specialty dining for all guests in a stateroom. Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, while Tamarind showcases the traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with sensuous flavors and dishes. Canaletto is a relaxed venue that serves authentic Italian cuisine. Ships with Tamarind receive one night at Tamarind or Pinnacle Grill. Ships without Tamarind receive one night at Pinnacle Grill or Canaletto.  A Wi-Fi package for the first and second guests in a stateroom.  Cruises of 10 to 20 days:  
All of the extras included in the package for six- to nine-day cruises, PLUS an additional $100 shore excursion or tour credit ($200 per guest total).  Two nights specialty dining: ships with Tamarind receive one night at Pinnacle Grill and one night at Tamarind. Ships without Tamarind receive one night at Pinnacle Grill and one night at Canaletto. Cruises of 21+ days (excluding Grand Voyages):  
All of the extras included in the package for 10- to 20-day cruises, PLUS an additional $100 shore excursion or tour credit ($300 per guest total).  Three nights specialty dining: Ships with Tamarind receive one night at Pinnacle Grill, one night at Tamarind and one night at Canaletto. Ships without Tamarind receive two nights at Pinnacle Grill and one night at Canaletto. When guests go to book a Holland America Line cruise, the "Have It All" fare is presented as an option with the included perks already factored into the price across all stateroom and suite categories. Guests who prefer to cruise without all of the extras have the option of a standard fare when making a booking. Each guest in a stateroom must book the "Have it All" cruise fare to receive the extras.
For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor.
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About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE:  CCL and CUK)]
Holland America Line has been exploring the world since 1873 and was the first cruise line to offer adventures to Alaska and the Yukon more than 70 years ago. Its fleet of premium ships visits more than 470 ports in 98 countries around the world, offering an ideal mid-sized ship experience. A third Pinnacle-class ship, Rotterdam, is under construction and will join the fleet in July 2021.
The leader in premium cruising, Holland America Line's ships feature innovative initiatives and a diverse range of enriching experiences focused on destination exploration and personalized travel. The best live music at sea fills each evening at Music Walk, and dining venues feature exclusive selections from Holland America Line's esteemed Culinary Council, comprising world-famous chefs.
In light of COVID-19, Holland America Line is currently enhancing health and safety protocols and how they may impact future cruises. Our actual offerings may vary from what is displayed or described in marketing materials. Review our current Cruise Updates, Health & Safety Protocols.
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SOURCE: Holland America (Press Release, April 15, 2021)  Photo Credit: Pixabay Free Images
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Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued the next phase of technical guidance under the Framework for Conditional Sailing Order (CSO) requiring cruise lines to establish agreements at ports where they intend to operate, implement routine testing of crew, and develop plans incorporating vaccination strategies to reduce the risk of introduction and spread of COVID-19 by crew and passengers.
This phase, the second of the CSO issued in October 2020, provides technical instructions on:
Increasing from weekly to daily the reporting frequency of COVID-19 cases and illnesses. Implementing routine testing of all crew based on each ship’s color status. Updating the color-coding system used to classify ships’ status with respect to COVID-19. Decreasing the time needed for a “red” ship to become “green” from 28 to 14 days based on the availability of onboard testing, routine screening testing protocols, and daily reporting. Creating planning materials for agreements that port authorities and local health authorities must approve to ensure cruise lines have the necessary infrastructure in place to manage an outbreak of COVID-19 on their ships to include healthcare capacity and housing to isolate infected people and quarantine those who are exposed. Establishing a plan and timeline for vaccination of crew and port personnel. The next phase of the CSO will include simulated (trial) voyages that will allow crew and port personnel to practice new COVID-19 operational procedures with volunteers before sailing with passengers.
CDC is committed to working with the cruise industry and seaport partners to resume cruising when it is safe to do so, following the phased approach outlined in the CSO.
COVID-19 vaccination efforts will be critical in the safe resumption of passenger operations. As more people are fully vaccinated, the phased approach allows CDC to incorporate these advancements into planning for resumption of cruise ship travel when it is safe to do so. CDC recommends that all eligible port personnel and travelers (passengers and crew) get a COVID-19 vaccine when one is available to them.
Cruising safely and responsibly during a global pandemic is difficult. While cruising will always pose some risk of COVID-19 transmission, following the phases of  the CSO will ensure cruise ship passenger operations are conducted in a way that protects crew members, passengers, and port personnel, particularly with emerging COVID-19 variants of concern.
CDC will continue to update its guidance and recommendations to specify basic safety standards and public health interventions based on the best scientific evidence available. For more information about COVID-19 and cruise ships, please visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/cruise-ship/what-cdc-is-doing.html and www.cdc.gov/quarantine/cruise.
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESexternal icon
CDC works 24/7 protecting America’s health, safety and security. Whether disease start at home or abroad, are curable or preventable, chronic or acute, or from human activity or deliberate attack, CDC responds to America’s most pressing health threats. CDC is headquartered in Atlanta and has experts located throughout the United States and the world.
 
 
 
SOURCE: CDC Press Release, April 2, 2021. Photo Credit: Pixabay
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CruiseCrazies Founder and Owner, Jason Taub, is a Fort Lauderdale Realtor® with D'Angelo Realty Group - The local market leader in downtown Fort Lauderdale condo sales.  We represent buyers and sellers of waterfront condos, townhomes and single family homes in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale Beach and the surrounding areas.  With over $2 billion in real estate transactions, our track record of success speaks for itself.
D’Angelo Realty Group is located in the heart of Las Olas Boulevard, minutes from Port Everglades and is celebrating 20 years of selling Fort Lauderdale properties.
If you're considering buying, renting or selling a full-time or seasonal home in the area, Jason is available 24/7 and will find the perfect residence for you. Ask about virtual showings and 100% contact-less transactions!
🕓  Available 24/7  
☎️  (954) 663-6032
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It's nearly November. Most of us have been shoreside and land locked since February or March 2020, or even earlier. The COVID-19 pandemic with the assistance of the CDC has seen to it that we won't be cruising any time soon. The CDC has extended it's No-Sail Order, again, through October 31, 2020, and who knows when ships will return. Unless you have been lucky enough to be able to cruise one of the European lines or a small ship adventure line exempt from the CDC's order, you're probably suffering from cruise withdrawal, wondering when and if you'll ever again be aboard a cruise again. Not that we don't have feelings. We recall the rampant cases of Coronavirus on board cruise ships earlier in the year, the quarantine that kept guests at sea for what seems like forever, and the crew members stranded aboard for many months away from their families while ships were kept away. While the virus continues to rage and re-emerge around the country, especially in the U.S., we remember those friends and loved ones who have become ill and those who have tragically died. Now eight months later, and the virus is still very much alive, surging in some cases, and people are getting restless.
Still, passionate cruisers want to cruise again - someday. And I believe we will, when it's deemed safe, when proper precautions are in place, and when there is a vaccine. Even now, cruise lines are working hard to secure that we can be healthy and safe when it's time to get back to the ocean. 
In the meantime, let's think about the ways we can survive this cruise drought. 
Plan Now, Sail Later! This is first and foremost the best way to combat cruise withdrawal. Just as the melancholy that takes over when you arrive home after disembarking a memorable cruise, the same principle applies. Don't put it off any longer. Book a cruise now, even if you're not sure what the future holds for cruise ships. Those of you whose cruise was canceled and you were given future cruise credit, it's easy. Just choose another cruise and move your funds over. However, if you've only been dreaming and wondering if you'll ever sail again, put those dreams to action. Book a cruise now and sail later. Most lines now have opened bookings up to 2022, are offering free amenities galore, and have instituted flexible cancellation and change policies. They value your business and are making it easier than ever to plan for later. In fact, assuming that the CDC drops the No-Sail order, cruise lines are betting that they will depart U.S. ports as early as December or January, and if you can tolerate risk of cancellation, you could snag a great deal!
See Where Others Are going! Okay, so you're still not sure you want to invest your time and energy in a future cruise during these uncertain times. I get it. We're all apprehensive, cautious and nervous about how this virus will play out. It's time to read, research and stalk the internet. People ARE currently traveling - not cruising, of course, but they are taking to the roads or the air. Do you notice how other people simply LOVE to flood social media with their latest and greatest travel photos? Does it make you crazy that they are traveling and you're not? Instead of wallowing in envy and jealousy, find out how these people are making it happen. What steps are they taking and how are they getting there? For example, I have several friends and acquaintances that have recently traveled amidst a pandemic, places like Cancun, the Dominican Republic, Hawaii, Las Vegas and our National Parks. They post photos of pristine beaches, majestic mountains, rugged canyons and frilly umbrella drinks. They report traveling to these places easily, safely and without major incident. Take a look at the trips others are successfully taking and ask yourself - could I do this?
Road Trip It! If you simply can't wait until it's safe to cruise again, take a quick road trip. A short 3-day trip will clear your head and soothe your soul. Depending on where in the country you're located, it could be a mountain retreat, a lakeside cabin or a beachside resort. Research the particular COVID policies for your destination, grab your mask and hand sanitizer, and take to the highway. Got a camper? Lucky you! Take off and see the country in your home-to-go! Or camp out under the stars in your favorite tent.
Dream Up a Staycation! If accommodations make you nervous, simply plan a day trip. Take to the road for a few hours and admire the scenery, whether it be snow-capped mountains or seaside vistas. If you're a photography snob, grab your camera and do a photo shoot. Alternatively, plan a virtual vacation in your living room or on the outside patio. If you're lucky to live in constant warmth and sun, a backyard pool and garden patio can be a great escape without the expense. Make some frilly umbrella drinks and pretend you're in the Caribbean. If you live in the snow belt, loop a virtual cruise or ocean video on your TV, lay a blanket out on the floor, whip up some Pina coladas in the blender, and have a picnic. A backyard fire pit can provide hours of camp-out fun, so grab some marshmallows! 
Bide Your Time and Don't Give Up! If the virus doesn't seem to be going anywhere and infection rates are up in your area, don't let it get you down. Unfortunately, the virus is still here and is creating disharmony across the country, on both sides of masking. If you feel it's just not the right time to travel, you're not alone. There continue to be risks, and peoples' lives are at stake. But don't despair - be proactive. Think about the destinations on your bucket list. Particularly those that can be reached by cruise ship. Read about it and make it forefront in your mind. Prepare and be ready when the coast is clear to book your dream trip! Realize that opportunities for both cruise and land travel - and to travel freely - will return. Just be patient! In the meantime, dream about those amazing travel adventures to come. 
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Thanks for reading! Comments and suggestions are always welcome.
For inspiration or assistance with cruise or land vacation planning, visit me at Seven Sea Journeys.

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., (October 21, 2020) – Princess Cruises, the world’s leading international premium cruise line, today confirmed the official transfer of Golden Princess and the accelerated transition of Star Princess to P&O Cruises Australia. Previously announced in 2018, the two vessels will now debut as Pacific Adventure (Golden Princess) and Pacific Encounter (Star Princess) anticipated to sail in 2021.
“Golden Princess and Star Princess have sailed all over the world, creating lifelong memories for the millions of guests who sailed upon these beloved cruise ships,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “We know their wonderful legacy will continue under sister brand P&O Cruises Australia, which has become so well-known for delivering unforgettable cruise holidays for Aussies and Kiwis to some of the most idyllic destinations in the South Pacific.”
Golden Princess first joined the fleet in May 2001 with her sister ship Star Princess setting sail the following year in January 2002. Both Golden Princess and Star Princess played an instrumental role in the evolution of Princess.
The ships offered guests plenty of opportunities to customize their vacation experience through an unstructured approach called Personal Choice Cruising. One of the key elements of this program was Princess innovative Personal Choice Dining, which was the only dining program in the industry at the time to give passengers freedom to dine where, when and with whom they wish. Passengers could choose between Anytime Dining, where they could dine in one of the main dining rooms when and with whom they want, and Traditional Dining with an assigned dining time, tablemates and wait staff. Both ships were also amongst the first to feature the line’s popular Lotus Spa and Fitness Centers.
In addition, all guests enjoyed the special privacy afforded by the ships’ more than 710 balcony staterooms, a Princess trademark. Throughout the years, both ships were modernized with signature features Princess is known for, including Movies Under the Stars, The Sanctuary adults-only retreat, the Piazza, and specialty restaurants Sabatini’s and Crown Grill.
Guests with bookings will be notified, and along with their travel advisors, and will receive information on how to book another Princess Cruise when operations resume. Guests who prefer a refund will be accommodated.
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SOURCE: Princess Cruises (Press Release-October 21, 2020); Photo Credit: Princess Cruise Line
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MIAMI, October 12, 2020 – Carnival Cruise Line has notified guests and travel agents that it is cancelling the remaining cruises for the six total ships operating from PortMiami and Port Canaveral for November 2020.  
It has also cancelled five cruises scheduled to operate from Sydney, Australia from Jan. 16 - Feb. 8, 2021.
Following the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) decision to extend its no-sail order for cruise operations until Oct. 31, Carnival cancelled all but PortMiami and Port Canaveral cruises for the rest of the year.  It has now determined that November 2020 operations will not be feasible.
Carnival continues to work on protocols and procedures that would allow for the resumption of cruise operations, with a gradual, phased-in approach, designating Miami and Port Canaveral as the first two homeports for embarkations.  Cruises currently scheduled for December from those two homeports remain in place for the time being while Carnival evaluates options.  However, guests booked on cruises in December out of Miami and Port Canaveral still have the ability to voluntarily cancel their reservation and receive the same offer that all other impacted guests are receiving, which includes a combination future cruise credit (FCC) and onboard credit (OBC), or a full refund.
In Australia, Carnival is notifying guests and travel agents that five cruises on Carnival Splendor from Jan. 16 - Feb. 8, 2021 have been cancelled.  Those guests will receive the same offer of the combination FCC/OBC, or a full refund.
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SOURCE: Press Release, Carnival (October 12, 2020); Photo Credit: Pixabay Free Stock Photos
 
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MIAMI, Sept. 16, 2020 – Carnival Cruise Line today announced the sale of Carnival Fascination and Carnival Imagination, which had previously been put on long-term lay-up status and removed from published itineraries.
The sale of Carnival Fascination, launched in 1994, and Carnival Imagination, introduced in 1995, is in line with Carnival Corporation’s plan to accelerate the removal of less efficient ships from its fleet.  This follows the sale of Carnival Fantasy and Carnival Inspiration which took place in July.  Upon return to operations, Carnival will still operate four upgraded Fantasy-class ships – Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise – which feature additional balcony staterooms as well as enhanced dining and entertainment options that are part of the line’s Fun Ship 2.0 enhancement program. 
“While we are sad to see  Carnival Fascination and Carnival Imagination leave our fleet, it is a necessary move as it allows us to focus on ships that offer the greatest variety of features and stateroom accommodations for our guests,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.   
Related to its ongoing ship enhancement program and the current pause in cruise operations, Carnival also advised guests and travel agents that it is delaying the return to guest operations for four ships until after scheduled dry dock enhancements are completed in the first half of 2021. 
The four impacted ships and resulting cancelled itineraries include:
Carnival Magic itineraries operating from Miami will be cancelled until Mar. 13, 2021 Carnival Paradise itineraries operating from Tampa will be cancelled until Mar. 19, 2021 Carnival Valor itineraries operating from New Orleans will be cancelled until Apr. 29, 2021 (including the transatlantic cruise from New Orleans on Jan. 25, 2021 and the return from Barcelona on Feb. 26, 2021) Carnival Spirit itineraries operating from Brisbane will be cancelled through May 16, 2021, with the first sailing being the Singapore to Brisbane voyage embarking on June 12, 2021. “This extended pause in our operations has also impacted shipyard availability, and we’ve had to reschedule required dry docks.  As we continue to work through issues related to our eventual return to operations, we are committed to providing our guests and travel agent partners with certainty where we can, although we regret disappointing our guests.  We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our guests and hope to welcome them back on board soon,” Duffy said.
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SOURCE: Carnival Cruise Line, (News Release-September 16, 2020); Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line
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Cruise lines are ready to get back to business safely and thousands of jobs depend on that, industry leaders, suppliers, retailers and longshoremen told Miami-Dade lawmakers Thursday. 
'The cruise industry is close to devastation. The market capitalization of the three public companies has dropped by nearly $50 billion. We've had to raise $20 billion' to stay afloat, Frank Del Rio, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, said.
'We've got to get to work, commissioner. Enough is enough,' an impassioned Del Rio told Miami-Dade County Tourism and Ports Committee Chair Rebeca Sosa.
'It's been more than six months. We as an industry and society have learned a lot about how to live beside COVID,' Del Rio said, pointing to how NCLH and Royal Caribbean Group convened their joint Healthy Sail Panel of experts more than five months ago.
'These are the best people in America, and they have been working for us,' he went on, adding that in the next week to 10 days the companies will submit their protocols to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Del Rio voiced confidence that it will be safe to cruise from America, just as a small but growing number of lines are doing in Europe.
'We've been quiet for too long.'
The US no-sail order is 'affecting the lives of thousands of employees, their families and their children,' Del Rio continued. 'And yet we see airlines flying. I want someone to tell me how it's possible that COVID-19 doesn't occur on an airplane when you're sitting four inches away from a person ... '
'It's unconscionable what's happened to the cruise industry. We've been quiet for too long.'
For his part, 'We are totally committed to working with CDC,' Arnold Donald, president and CEO, Carnival Corp. & plc, told commissioners. 'We have been working nonstop ... to develop science-based COVID-19 protocols to be sure the cruise industry can handle the risks without any burden on local resources.'
Aiming for less risk than similar shoreside activities.
'We want no one to experience a greater risk on a cruise ship than they would in similar shoreside activities. Historically, we had less risk than shoreside, and that's our goal now as well.'
Illustrating how cruising's shutdown has caused a 'tsunami-like impact' on small businesses, Donald played a short clip of Jerry Kaye, whose Lucite Creations makes signs for the cruise industry. According to Kaye, with 40 years in business, work dried up when the ships stopped sailing. He got choked up as he said: 'If I had to leave [this job], it would destroy me.'
Lines want to help economic recovery.
'We are ready to work with authorities in the US. We want to be a significant contributor to supporting restart efforts ... both for people in our industry and the many supporting sectors that work with it,' said Rick Sasso, chairman of MSC Cruises USA. MSC Grandiosa began sailing in Europe in mid-August and is now on its fourth successful cruise.
'The protocols are working.'
'Our experience to date shows that cruising can be done safely,' with adherence to protocols and 'going above and beyond the required standards,' Sasso said. 'Guests are enjoying cruises once again and applauding us ... The protocols are working.'
Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, noted the cruise industry is vital to Florida's economy, contributing over $8.5bn in direct spending annually. Also, about 60% of US-based cruise line employment is in Miami.
'Miami is the gateway to the Caribbean,' Bayley continued, adding that 40 Caribbean countries count on the cruise business. Bayley co-chairs a task force with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley that's forging a universal set of guidelines to dovetail with those of the Healthy Sail Panel and protocols that lines will submit to the CDC.
'We're ready' to return to service.'
'It's time that the cruise industry returned to service, and we're ready,' Bayley summed up.
Caitlin Gardner, representing the giant home-based travel advisor network Cruise Planners, argued it's 'unfair to single out the cruise industry,' which should be treated like other businesses such as hotels and restaurants — that are open. 'Use your voice to urge CDC to allow the cruise industry to return,' Gardner told commissioners.
Others who spoke in support of cruising included Gregory Martin of satellite connectivity provider SES Networks, David Harris of Ensemble Travel Group, Wendy Kallergis of the Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association, Torin Regan of the International Longshoremen's Association and PortMiami Director Juan Kuryla.
Commissioner Sosa and her committee made it clear they heard the industry's plight and that of PortMiami, where investments in new cruise terminals continue. NCL's 'Pearl of Miami,' Terminal B, sits completed — and empty. New facilities are under way or planned for Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises/Disney Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages.
Miami-Dade commissioners recently approved general obligation bonds that earmark $335m for these projects.
Sosa scolds the CDC
Sosa repeatedly took the CDC to task for not communicating with the cruise lines and keeping them hanging for months. 'It's unfair that they don't even answer ... Listen to the plans. Correct the plans. Tell them what they need to do,' she scolded.
The CDC has set a Sept. 21 deadline for public comments about ways to safely restart cruising. Sosa said Miami-Dade County will be writing to CDC and to Florida's representatives and senators to press for a quick CDC response to the cruise lines' protocols.
'We are going to pressure the CDC to do the review and come back to us,' she said. Many families' livelihoods, she added, are depending on it.
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SOURCE: SeaTrade Cruise News, Anne Kalosh (Sept. 10, 2020); Photo Credit: Janice Neves
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Following CLIA’s announcement last week of a voluntary suspension of cruise operations from U.S. ports until Sept. 15, Disney Cruise Line announced an extension of their cruise suspension for Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy sailings through the same date. In light of these cancellations, Disney Cruise Line is offering guests who have paid their reservation in full the choice of a 125 percent future cruise credit to be used for a future sailing prior to March 31, 2022, or a full refund. Also, Disney removed previously available July, August, September and one October sailing to prevent further bookings. The following cruises have officially been canceled. 
Disney Dream Cancelations: Friday, July 31, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Monday, Aug. 3, 2020, 4-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Friday, Aug. 7, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Monday, Aug. 10, 2020, 4-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Friday, Aug. 14, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Monday, Aug. 17, 2020, 4-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Friday, Aug. 21, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Monday, Aug. 24, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Thursday, Aug. 27, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Sunday, Aug. 30, 2020, 4-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Sunday, Sept. 6, 2020, 4-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020, 4-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; and Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, 4-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral. 
Disney Fantasy Cancelations: Saturday, Aug. 1, 2020, 7-Night, Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral; Saturday, Aug. 8, 2020, 7-Night, Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral; Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020, 7-Night, Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral; Saturday, Aug. 22, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Friday, Aug. 28, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Monday, Aug. 31, 2020, 4-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Friday, Sept. 4, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral; Monday, Sept. 7, 2020, 5-Night, Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral; and Saturday, Sept. 12, 2020, 7-Night, Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral. 
Noting that Disney Dream is scheduled for dry dock in October, the next bookable sailings are Disney Magic, Monday, Oct. 12, 2020, 5-Night, Bermuda Cruise from New York; Disney Wonder, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, 5-Night, Baja Cruise from San Diego; Disney Dream, Sunday, November 1, 2020, 7-Night, Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral; and Disney Fantasy, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2020, 3-Night, Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral. 
By Alan Fine, Insider Travel Report, 6.22.20
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An Australian couple quarantined on a cruise ship due to the deadly coronavirus kept the party flowing by getting a drone to deliver wine straight to their cabin.
Jan and Dave Binskin, from Queensland, have chronicled their journey of boredom and booze while stranded on the Diamond Princess ship off the coast of Tokyo for the past week.
“Quarantined on the Diamond Princess in Yokohama Japan now into Day 6 of 14 we are confined to our cabin,” the couple wrote on their Facebook account while posing with masks.
“[We] get let out every 4/5 days for 1 hour walk on the deck we are well and in good spirits so far would appreciate any local news.”
Although the Aussie couple had an ocean view — the seas were getting rocky and the Binskins needed some vino.
“Our view for the next 13 days or maybe 28 as they just found another 10 positive and are taking them ashore 😡😡,” they wrote on Wednesday along with an image of the seas.
The couple then reached out to the Naked Wine Club and — much to their delight — received two bottles of Pinot Noir that was delivered to their cabin door by drone.
“Naked Wine Club you’re incredible. Just got the first drop,” they wrote on Friday along with an image of Dave lounging on the bed donning a mask and holding a glass of their finest.
“Thank God for drones, the Japanese Coast Guard did not know what the fu– was going on.”
The Diamond Princess was floating off the coast with about 3700 people aboard as the entire vessel was held under two-week quarantine since they arrived back at the port of Yokohama. A man who disembarked in Hong Kong had been diagnosed with the virus.
The Binskins, and their wine, will be stuck on the ship for another 8 days.
“New update on Masks,” the couple wrote on Monday with an image of their new face protection.
By Joe Tacopino, New York Post
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The good news: The cruise industry is expected to grow by 6 percent in 2019, with 18 new ships setting sail and 30 million travelers taking to the sea.
The even better news: More than eight out of 10 CLIA-certified travel agents expect to see their cruise sales grow in the next 12 months. And the top trends in the “2019 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook,” released today by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), point to tips for travel agents selling cruise vacations.
Here’s the list of the top trends for 2019 and what they mean for travel agents:
Instagrammable cruise travel. If you are not on Instagram yet, it’s time to give it a try. “Instagram posts are driving interest in travel around the world,” the report says, with many days seeing more than 350 million posts tagged #travel, as cruisers and travel agents post photos onboard and on land.
Total restoration. “Stressed out from fast-paced lives, travelers are seeking ways to check out from daily responsibilities and rejuvenate more than ever before,” CLIA reports. Be sure to tell clients about the wellness options onboard the ships they are considering, including restorative spa experiences, onboard oxygen bars, healthy menu choices, and the latest in fitness innovations. 
Achievement over experience. “Vacationers are looking for immersive, cultural experiences beyond sightseeing. Bucket lists have become more goal-oriented and cruise lines are meeting these demands,” says CLIA, with excursions like hiking Machu Picchu or culinary workshops hosted by Le Cordon Bleu chefs. Find out your clients’ interests and mention onboard offerings that match.
Onboard with smart tech. The wearable technology includes keychains, necklaces, and bracelets designed to provide a highly personalized travel experience.
Conscious travel. “Travelers want to see the world in a conscious, mindful way,” says the report, and cruise lines are working with local communities to preserve their heritage and decrease the environmental footprint. Ask if your clients are interested in touring a local school or volunteering.
Access is the new luxury. “Travelers are setting their sights on destinations that were previously out of reach, some only accessible now by cruise ship,” according to CLIA. Suggest bucket list destinations like the Galapagos Islands and Antarctica.
Gen Z at sea. Generation Z is set to become the largest consumer generation in the next two years, CLIA says, and this age group is looking for multiple destinations and unique experiences, such as music festivals at sea.
Off-peak adventures. CLIA prompts agents to suggest traveling during the off-peak season, when travelers can “escape the cold in a tropical place or embrace the chill in a new destination. Cruising offers some once-in-a-lifetime experiences during the colder months that include: excursions to see the Northern Lights, visiting a penguin colony, and touring European Christmas Markets.”
Working nomads. Many modern travelers or “digital nomads” are opting for trips where they can work remotely. Don’t hesitate to suggest longer trips, where “WiFi and work-friendly cafes can help them keep up with work while enjoying a cruise vacation,” offers CLIA.
Female-centered cruising. Many travel companies are creating female-centered itineraries based on shared interests and connecting women. CLIA says, “Female-centered cruises can create a female empowerment community at sea while allowing travelers to experience the world around them, as well as visit famous feminist landmarks.”
Going solo. Cruising is a great option for solo travelers, allowing them to “visit even the most far-reaching destinations and connect with other travelers, form community bonds, and experience once-in-a-lifetime things,” the CLIA reports notes.
Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association, said: “Research and forecasting the year ahead allows the cruise industry an opportunity to take a big-picture look at the cruise and travel industries to evaluate and predict all of the exciting things to come. The coming year’s trends truly reflect the intersection between the experiences travelers seek and the cruise industry’s innovations.”
Eighteen new vessels
An impressive number of new ships will be coming online in 2019 from CLIA-member companies. Here they are:
Greg Mortimer, Aurora Expeditions Carnival Panorama, Carnival Cruise Line Celebrity Flora, Celebrity Cruises Venezia and Smeralda, Costa Cruises Coral Adventurer, Coral Expeditions Hanseatic Nature and Hanseatic Inspiration, Hapag-Lloyd MSC Grandiosa and MSC Bellissima, MSC Cruises Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Cruise Line Le Dumont-d’Urville and Le Bougainville, PONANT Yacht Cruises and Expeditions Sky Princess, Princess Cruises  Spectrum of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International Scenic Eclipse, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours  Spirit of Discovery, Saga Cruises  Mein Schiff 2, TUI Cruises By Cheryl Rosen, Travel Market Report
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Virgin Voyages' inaugural season is officially on sale to everyone.
The company's first ship, the adults-only Scarlet Lady is scheduled to set sail from Miami to the Caribbean beginning in April 2020. The four- and five-night itineraries will include stops in Havana, Cuba; Costa Maya, Mexico and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
Onboard highlights will include 20-plus eateries, free group fitness classes, complimentary WiFi and free basic beverages such as soda, teas, coffee and water. There will also be no gratuities or service charges.
What's more, each cabin will feature a custom-designed Seabed that's able to transform into a seating area while the lighting will automatically adjust to enhance the time of day.
Scarlet Lady will offer 1,330 cabins and 78 RockStar suites in all, with a majority boasting ocean views and terraces.
"I’ve dreamed of starting my own cruise line since I was in my 20s and now the launch is finally getting close," said Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Voyages, in a statement. "We have taken the time to think about every detail and craft an experience that brings the Virgin brand to life and disrupts the travel industry."
"At Virgin Voyages we are going beyond just great design to defy and redefine luxury to be rebellious luxe," added Virgin Voyages president and CEO Tom McAlpin. "This new luxury is about knowing you are taken care of, that you’re never being nickel and dimed, and what you want, even some of the things you didn’t know you wanted, are already taken care of for you."
Earlier this month, Virgin Voyages launched a dedicated travel agent website called "First Mates" that offers agents and advisors access to interactive marketing and learning materials to help them book clients.
By TravelPulse
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A plan to bring Carnival Cruise Line’s largest-ever cruise ship to Port Canaveral was unanimously approved by the Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners on Wednesday morning. The board voted to enter into a 25-year operating agreement with Miami-based Carnival that will pave the way for the cruise line to dock its still unnamed, 5,286-passenger ship at the port.
Under the agreement, Carnival would have access to Terminals 5 and 6 until the port’s new Terminal 3 is completed in June 2020. Then, Carnival will primarily operate from Terminals 3 and 6.
The move to Terminal 3 will give Carnival the space to operate its newest and largest vessels at Port Canaveral — just in time for the completion of Carnival’s new ship.
During a presentation to the board Wednesday morning, Scott Bakos, managing principal and partner at Bermello-Ajamil & Partners, Inc., the design consultant and architect on the project, revealed further details of the design for the new terminal. The all-glass facade of Terminal 3 will be titled “Launch Pad,” in a font reminiscent of the one used on the NASA logo, a move that is designed to tie in the history of the Space Coast.
The 185,000-square-foot building will have a U.S. Customs and Border Protection screening area and integrated mobile passenger check-in, all targeted at making the embarkation and debarkation process more seamless. The building will also have the capability to transition as Customs and Border Protection moves to using facial recognition, Bakos said. A five-level parking garage will accommodate nearly 1,800 cars.
“There is nothing like having a fantastic cruise and having to deal with long lines and wait times, so we put a lot of effort into making sure that doesn’t happen for the facility,” Bakos told the board.  All told, the $150 million terminal project is the largest in the port’s history.
“This agreement is a valuable milestone for the port’s cruise business and a foremost achievement for the entire region’s economy. Our partnership with Carnival has continued to grow over the years thanks to this community’s assets, our commitment to service and a steadfast focus on preserving our financial strength to invest in the port’s future,” said Tom Weinberg, secretary/treasurer of the Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners in a statement.
The new agreement will replace an existing six-year agreement set to expire in 2019. Effective Sept. 1, the new agreement will bring Carnival’s current annual guarantee to the port from a fixed $7 million passenger fee to a $14.5 million commitment that will increase by 2.5 percent for the first five years and 3 percent thereafter.
From Carnival’s perspective, the agreement cements its foothold at Port Canaveral as the largest operator. The arrival of its largest ship will also shine a light on port, which will play host to the first ship powered by liquefied natural gas in North America.
Further details on the ship will be revealed next year.
By Chabeli Herrera, Orlando Sentinel
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Princess Cruises has revealed the line's newly enhanced beverage menus, featuring globally inspired signature cocktail offerings created by master mixologist Rob Floyd. As one of the most significant beverage changes in the history of the company, destination-specific ingredients have been carefully selected to tantalize guests' taste buds with flavors from every corner of the world. In addition to the new cocktails, the line has added 20 new high-end and exotic spirits, 39 new wines by the glass, and 17 new international and craft beers to the new menu.
"As part of our continued commitment to the guest experience, we are thrilled to debut new menus throughout the bars and lounges aboard Princess ships," said Mario Siebaldi, senior vice president of guest operations for Princess Cruises. "Broadening the scope of our beverage options by partnering with notable industry leaders like Rob Floyd on globally inspired cocktails, as well as increasing our selection of beers and wines on board are all part of our aim to provide guests the best cruise vacation experience at sea. And with our new shareable drink recipes, guests can recreate their favorite memories once back at home over and over again." 
Highlights of the new onboard offerings include a set of signature cocktails designed by Floyd, who used fresh ingredients and destination inspiration to develop a portfolio of new drinks for Princess Cruises. Bars and lounges throughout the ships will also feature new, themed menus, so guests can have fun exploring the different offerings at the various bars on board.
"I was truly inspired by ingredients from all the amazing destinations that Princess Cruises sails," said Rob Floyd. "Guests will be able to enjoy a wide selection of fully realized drinks that combine what I refer to as the Three T's: taste, technique, and tale."
Floyd believes spectacular drinks combine the best of "The Three T's." First and foremost is "Taste," as interesting ingredient combinations produce delicious flavors. The second element, "Technique," refers to the skill and craft that goes into creating each drink. And last but not least the "Tale;" a creative and fascinating inspiration behind each unique cocktail.
Whether traveling to Mexico, Italy, or the South Pacific, the globally designed cocktails by Rob Floyd have the flavors to inspire. Initial offerings include:
Mayan Heat: Patrón Silver tequila, Triple Sec, lime juice, agave syrup, muddled jalapeño Italian Sunset: Aperol, Bombay Sapphire gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, Angostura bitters Ver-Jus: St. George "Terroir" gin, St-Germain, muddled green grapes, lemon juice, simple syrup Mint Divine: Bombay Sapphire gin, ginger beer, cucumber, lime juice, simple syrup, fresh mint Amaretto Manhattan: Bulleit Bourbon, Disaronno, sweet vermouth, Angostura orange bitters Princess Punch: Absolut Elyx vodka, St. George raspberry liqueur, fresh lime, simple syrup, Gosling's ginger beer East Side Punch: Absolut Elyx vodka, fresh mint, cucumber, lime juice, simple syrup, club soda A Trip to the Tropics: Absolut Elyx vodka, apricot liqueur, orange juice, pineapple juice, pomegranate juice Ivory Coast: Grey Goose vodka, Amarula African liqueur, Kahlúa, chocolate shavings The Egyptian Zombie: Bacardi Superior rum, Gosling's Dark rum, blackberry brandy, sweet and sour, orange juice, pineapple juice, grenadine Rounding out the new drinks are "zero-proof cocktails," made without alcohol. These light, fruity and refreshing drinks skimp on the alcohol, but miss none of the flavor:
Zero Mojito: Fresh mint, lime, simple syrup, Sprite Strawberries on Fire: Fresh strawberries, lime juice, agave syrup, jalapeño, soda The new beverage menu offerings will be available aboard all ships in fall 2018. In addition to adding the new wines by the glass, Princess Cruises worked with Doug Frost, one of only four people in the world to hold both the prestigious ranks of Master Sommelier and Master of Wine to refresh the wine menus onboard. More specific details will be shortly announced.
To whet guests whistles even more, Princess Cruises also unveiled this summer a thirst-quenching deal with the Sip and Sail promotion, offering complimentary beverages for balcony, mini-suite and suite bookings. More information about the Sip and Sail offer is available at princess.com/cruisedeals. All prices are per person based on double occupancy. The Sip and Sail cruise deal runs through 11:59 p.m. PDT on September 5, 2018 and is available to residents of United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Bermuda who are 21 years of age or older.
About Rob Floyd:
As a notable cocktail guru, Rob Floyd is a resident mixologist on the hit TV show Bar Rescue, and is cited in publications worldwide such as Esquire, Maxim, and People Magazine. He has also written and appeared as an industry expert for a variety of media outlets including the The Wall Street Journal, The Times of London, CBS, and Fox. His specialty is creating cocktails that are both accessible and inspiring. His focus on history and story combine with under-the-radar ingredients to create not just a cocktail, but an adventure in a glass. After rewriting famed programs like The Bazaar and the Library Bar, Rob went on to found RX Liquid Chef, of which he is the current acting President. RX Liquid Chef focuses its efforts on consulting with top restaurants and casinos across the globe, working to implement world-class drinks and team-based service. He also used it to create a one-of-a-kind theatrical production, Cocktail Theatre, where he dazzles audience members with the magic of molecular techniques as well as tales and stories that create indelible experiences through drink. Floyd hopes that by inspiring a belief in the all-around experience of drinking, to change the way people approach alcohol, empowering them to appreciate the whole moment, to engage in a process and a passion, and to relish the adventure. Sip Boldly. For more information, visit sipboldly.com.
About Princess Cruises:
One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global premium cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of 17 modern cruise ships, carrying two million guests each year to more than 360 destinations around the globe, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England and World Cruises. A team of professional destination experts has created more than 150 award-winning itineraries, ranging in length from three to 111 days and Princess Cruises has been continuously recognized as "Best Cruise Line for Itineraries."
Princess Cruises continues its multi-year, "Come Back New Promise" – a $450 million-dollar product innovation and cruise ship renovation campaign that will continue to enhance the line's onboard guest experience. These enhancements result in more moments of awe, lifetime memories and meaningful stories for guests to share from their cruise vacation. The product innovations include partnerships with award-winning Chef Curtis Stone; engaging entertainment inspired shows with Broadway-legend Stephen Schwartz; immersive activities for the whole family from Discovery and Animal Planet that include exclusive shore excursion to onboard activities; the ultimate sleep at sea with the award-winning Princess Luxury Bed and much more.
Three new Royal-class ships are currently on order with the next new ship, Sky Princess, under construction scheduled for delivery in October 2019. Princess recently announced that two new (LNG) ships which will be the largest ships in the Princess fleet, accommodating approximately 4,300 guests with expected delivery in 2023 and 2025. Princess now has five ships arriving over the next six years between 2019 & 2025. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK).
By Princess Cruises
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The Cruise Lines International Association anticipates positive year-over-year growth for the industry globally in 2018, with a passenger forecast of 28 million. The U.S. and Canada saw impressive growth in 2017 with a five percent increase over the previous year, and North America represented the largest ocean passenger volume in 2017 (49 percent) with a total of more than 13 million ocean cruise passengers.
As the cruise industry continues to expand globally, plans for four new terminals in the U.S. have been advanced over the last two weeks. 
Port of Galveston
The Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves has entered into a MOU with Royal Caribbean Cruises for the development and operation of a new cruise terminal. The long-term lease negotiations could lead to a 60-year transaction: a 20-year initial term and four 10-year options.
While specific designs and costs have not yet been announced, some details have been revealed. The new terminal will cover approximately 200,000 square feet on 10 acres of land in the southeast section of the Port known as Pier 10. Improvements to the pier bulkhead and apron will be made to safely accommodate the cruise line’s largest vessels. In addition, a staging and loading area, bus and taxi staging areas and substantial parking will be constructed. The new facility is anticipated to open in 2021.
“Over the last 15 years, Royal Caribbean has brought over 2.4 million guests to Galveston driving an economic impact of $65 million each year. The development of a new terminal is crucial to our continued growth and expansion of the brand in the region,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. Royal Caribbean currently has two ships that sail out of Galveston, Liberty of the Seas, the largest cruise ship to sail from Texas, and Vision of the Seas. The Port expects the new cruise terminal to generate an additional 1.0 million passengers halfway through the term of the contract.
Icy Strait Point
 
Norwegian Cruise Line has entered a partnership with Alaska Native-owned Huna Totem Corporation to develop a second cruise pier in Icy Strait Point, Hoonah, Alaska.
The pier is scheduled to be completed for the summer 2020 Alaska cruise season and will be built to accommodate Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Plus-class ships. The partnership will provide Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ brands with preferential berthing rights. Currently Oceania Cruises’ Regatta, Seven Seas Mariner, Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Joy are scheduled to call on Icy Strait Point in the 2019 season. 
In addition, the new pier will provide more cruise passengers with access to Icy Strait’s newly upgraded retail, restaurant and shore excursion amenities, including the world’s largest ZipRider zip line. 
Canaveral Port 
The Canaveral Port Authority (CPA) Board of Commissioners have approved a resolution for the issuance of a series of bonds up to $117 million to provide the financing for Port Canaveral’s Cruise Terminal 3 project. The new terminal will be the homeport for Carnival Cruise Line’s newest and largest cruise ship.
The Canaveral Port Authority and Carnival Cruise Line will invest in building and equipping a new two-story 185,000-square foot terminal to accommodate the as-yet-unnamed 180,000-ton Carnival Cruise Line ship that will have maximum capacity of approximately 6,500 guests.
The new cruise passenger terminal, plus an adjacent elevated parking facility to accommodate nearly 1,800 vehicles, and related wharf, road and access improvements will total $150 million – estimated to be the largest single project in the history of the Port. Carnival will contribute up to $50 million towards the cruise terminal construction project. The new terminal is slated for completion by mid-2020. 
The new Carnival operating agreement, which began September 1, 2018 provides a 25-year primary term with four additional five-year renewal options and includes annual guarantees throughout. The arrival of the new Carnival ship in 2020 will mark 30 years that Carnival Cruise Line has been sailing from Port Canaveral, the longest of any of the Port’s cruise partners.
PortMiami
Sir Richard Branson's new cruise venture, Virgin Voyages, unveiled its plans for a new terminal at PortMiami last week. 
The passenger terminal's design is inspired by the form of the royal palm tree, and it was created by Miami-based architecture firm Arquitectonica. The two-story terminal’s rooftop is designed to resemble a palm tree grove, with pockets that allow natural light to flow into the building by day. It will have spotlight beams to light up the Virgin Voyages logo and the Miami sky at night. Arquitectonica's co-founder, Bernardo Fort Brescia, told the Miami Herald that “it’s more like a stage set than a cruise terminal," designed for a serene vacation experience from the moment of arrival. 
By Maritime Executive
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
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Princess Cruises has revealed the line's newly enhanced beverage menus, featuring globally inspired signature cocktail offerings created by master mixologist Rob Floyd. As one of the most significant beverage changes in the history of the company, destination-specific ingredients have been carefully selected to tantalize guests' taste buds with flavors from every corner of the world. In addition to the new cocktails, the line has added 20 new high-end and exotic spirits, 39 new wines by the glass, and 17 new international and craft beers to the new menu.
"As part of our continued commitment to the guest experience, we are thrilled to debut new menus throughout the bars and lounges aboard Princess ships," said Mario Siebaldi, senior vice president of guest operations for Princess Cruises. "Broadening the scope of our beverage options by partnering with notable industry leaders like Rob Floyd on globally inspired cocktails, as well as increasing our selection of beers and wines on board are all part of our aim to provide guests the best cruise vacation experience at sea. And with our new shareable drink recipes, guests can recreate their favorite memories once back at home over and over again." 
Highlights of the new onboard offerings include a set of signature cocktails designed by Floyd, who used fresh ingredients and destination inspiration to develop a portfolio of new drinks for Princess Cruises. Bars and lounges throughout the ships will also feature new, themed menus, so guests can have fun exploring the different offerings at the various bars on board.
"I was truly inspired by ingredients from all the amazing destinations that Princess Cruises sails," said Rob Floyd. "Guests will be able to enjoy a wide selection of fully realized drinks that combine what I refer to as the Three T's: taste, technique, and tale."
Floyd believes spectacular drinks combine the best of "The Three T's." First and foremost is "Taste," as interesting ingredient combinations produce delicious flavors. The second element, "Technique," refers to the skill and craft that goes into creating each drink. And last but not least the "Tale;" a creative and fascinating inspiration behind each unique cocktail.
Whether traveling to Mexico, Italy, or the South Pacific, the globally designed cocktails by Rob Floyd have the flavors to inspire. Initial offerings include:
Mayan Heat: Patrón Silver tequila, Triple Sec, lime juice, agave syrup, muddled jalapeño Italian Sunset: Aperol, Bombay Sapphire gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, Angostura bitters Ver-Jus: St. George "Terroir" gin, St-Germain, muddled green grapes, lemon juice, simple syrup Mint Divine: Bombay Sapphire gin, ginger beer, cucumber, lime juice, simple syrup, fresh mint Amaretto Manhattan: Bulleit Bourbon, Disaronno, sweet vermouth, Angostura orange bitters Princess Punch: Absolut Elyx vodka, St. George raspberry liqueur, fresh lime, simple syrup, Gosling's ginger beer East Side Punch: Absolut Elyx vodka, fresh mint, cucumber, lime juice, simple syrup, club soda A Trip to the Tropics: Absolut Elyx vodka, apricot liqueur, orange juice, pineapple juice, pomegranate juice Ivory Coast: Grey Goose vodka, Amarula African liqueur, Kahlúa, chocolate shavings The Egyptian Zombie: Bacardi Superior rum, Gosling's Dark rum, blackberry brandy, sweet and sour, orange juice, pineapple juice, grenadine Rounding out the new drinks are "zero-proof cocktails," made without alcohol. These light, fruity and refreshing drinks skimp on the alcohol, but miss none of the flavor:
Zero Mojito: Fresh mint, lime, simple syrup, Sprite Strawberries on Fire: Fresh strawberries, lime juice, agave syrup, jalapeño, soda The new beverage menu offerings will be available aboard all ships in fall 2018. In addition to adding the new wines by the glass, Princess Cruises worked with Doug Frost, one of only four people in the world to hold both the prestigious ranks of Master Sommelier and Master of Wine to refresh the wine menus onboard. More specific details will be shortly announced.
To whet guests whistles even more, Princess Cruises also unveiled this summer a thirst-quenching deal with the Sip and Sail promotion, offering complimentary beverages for balcony, mini-suite and suite bookings. More information about the Sip and Sail offer is available at princess.com/cruisedeals. All prices are per person based on double occupancy. The Sip and Sail cruise deal runs through 11:59 p.m. PDT on September 5, 2018 and is available to residents of United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Bermuda who are 21 years of age or older.
About Rob Floyd:
As a notable cocktail guru, Rob Floyd is a resident mixologist on the hit TV show Bar Rescue, and is cited in publications worldwide such as Esquire, Maxim, and People Magazine. He has also written and appeared as an industry expert for a variety of media outlets including the The Wall Street Journal, The Times of London, CBS, and Fox. His specialty is creating cocktails that are both accessible and inspiring. His focus on history and story combine with under-the-radar ingredients to create not just a cocktail, but an adventure in a glass. After rewriting famed programs like The Bazaar and the Library Bar, Rob went on to found RX Liquid Chef, of which he is the current acting President. RX Liquid Chef focuses its efforts on consulting with top restaurants and casinos across the globe, working to implement world-class drinks and team-based service. He also used it to create a one-of-a-kind theatrical production, Cocktail Theatre, where he dazzles audience members with the magic of molecular techniques as well as tales and stories that create indelible experiences through drink. Floyd hopes that by inspiring a belief in the all-around experience of drinking, to change the way people approach alcohol, empowering them to appreciate the whole moment, to engage in a process and a passion, and to relish the adventure. Sip Boldly. For more information, visit sipboldly.com.
About Princess Cruises:
One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global premium cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of 17 modern cruise ships, carrying two million guests each year to more than 360 destinations around the globe, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England and World Cruises. A team of professional destination experts has created more than 150 award-winning itineraries, ranging in length from three to 111 days and Princess Cruises has been continuously recognized as "Best Cruise Line for Itineraries."
Princess Cruises continues its multi-year, "Come Back New Promise" – a $450 million-dollar product innovation and cruise ship renovation campaign that will continue to enhance the line's onboard guest experience. These enhancements result in more moments of awe, lifetime memories and meaningful stories for guests to share from their cruise vacation. The product innovations include partnerships with award-winning Chef Curtis Stone; engaging entertainment inspired shows with Broadway-legend Stephen Schwartz; immersive activities for the whole family from Discovery and Animal Planet that include exclusive shore excursion to onboard activities; the ultimate sleep at sea with the award-winning Princess Luxury Bed and much more.
Three new Royal-class ships are currently on order with the next new ship, Sky Princess, under construction scheduled for delivery in October 2019. Princess recently announced that two new (LNG) ships which will be the largest ships in the Princess fleet, accommodating approximately 4,300 guests with expected delivery in 2023 and 2025. Princess now has five ships arriving over the next six years between 2019 & 2025. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK).
By Princess Cruises
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
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Most guests on Seven Seas Navigator may not find anything unusual about the distinguished-looking man who eats alone every day, at lunch and dinner, at the same corner table of the Compass Rose dining room.
But when I learned that this passenger—whom the crew deferentially refers to as the “Captain”—has been residing on this same ship for more than 13 years, my curiosity was aroused.
Bish, the can-do butler assigned to our stateroom, promised to see if he could arrange an introduction. A few hours later, I was running off to my appointment to meet the Captain—at 4 p.m. teatime, in Galileo’s Lounge on Deck 11.
I knew exactly where to find him because Bish told me that he also takes the same corner seat in the lounge each day, adjacent to a small stage where a pianist or guitarist performs 50s, 60s and 70s music. When I found the Captain, he was sipping his usual, a diet tonic water, on a ship with a complimentary open bar.
At the age of 94, Morton Jablin could easily pass for someone twenty years younger. He is slim, well-groomed and silver-haired. He looks like the retired executive he is, with dark eyes behind his glasses that exude intelligence, confidence and warmth. He’s an engaging conversationalist with a mind and memory that are both remarkably agile.
As our conversation begins, I’m anxious to get to the crux of the matter. Why has he been living on a ship, this particular ship, for so many years?
“I couldn’t achieve this lifestyle anywhere else,” he says. “The crew is overly gracious and kind to me. I can’t think of enough good adjectives. They are unbelievable.”
He sounds like one happy camper — or sailor.
From humble roots
Captain Jablin proudly tells me that he was raised in Brooklyn. After spending time abroad with the U.S. Navy Office of Naval Intelligence, he returned to the States in 1946, where he worked as a registered pharmacist making $65 a week. “My wife Charlotte and I raised two children in what was then a different world,” he says.
While overseas, he met a German textile manufacturer who asked him to introduce lace-making machines to the U.S. market. From that collaboration, the Captain eventually built what became his own successful lace-making business. Since that time, much of the lace industry moved from Europe and the U.S. to China, where labor is cheaper, but his company has managed to stay afloat. (It still owns 45 of the 70 machines that currently produce lace in the U.S.) Captain Jablin retired in 1989 and left the business in the hands of one of his grandsons, now 42.
A mutual love of the sea
“My wife, Charlotte always traveled with me and we made friends with other couples and crew,” he says. The two were avid cruisers, sailing on a number of different cruise lines over more than a half-century.
When one crew member they knew retired from another line to work on a private yacht, he suggested that the Jablins try cruising on Radisson Seven Seas Cruises (which was renamed Regent Seven Seas Cruises in 2006). The couple sailed on Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager for five years. In 2000, they decided to move to Seven Seas Navigator, the smallest ship in the Regent fleet (with fewer than 500 passengers).
When Charlotte passed away 13 years ago, Captain Jablin made Seven Seas Navigator his home. He still maintains a condo in Boca Raton, Florida to keep his “stuff” and to qualify for health benefits and Social Security but it’s been three or four years since he’s set foot there, he says.
About a year and a half ago, after his eyesight began to fail, the Captain could no longer go on shore excursions (except for occasional medical appointments). He says he is now 90% blind. He accepts the limitations posed by his age and health as he lives on board a ship that is sailing all over the world. “Charlotte and I had already been everywhere,” he says.
“I used to get four newspapers, and do Sudokus and crossword puzzles but I haven’t been able to do that either for the last two years,” he says.
Sticking to a routine
Now he is keeping things simple. “My life is very routine but comfortable,” he says. An early riser, he has breakfast in his cabin. He eats lunch and dinner at that corner table in the main dining room, and he appreciates that it is always set in the same way so he has no problem finding the salt.
“The food is excellent overall but I prefer to eat Dover sole at both meals, every day,” he says. He eats alone because he is self-conscious about food not making it to his mouth as neatly as it once did.
Seven Seas Navigator is an all-suite luxury ship. The cruise line has made minor stateroom accommodations to make things easier for the Captain, one of their most loyal passengers. “They’ve installed brighter lights in my cabin, handrails in the bathroom and a special shaving mirror,” he says.
To stay fit, he exercises regularly. He knows his way around the ship and walks about two hours daily, usually on Deck 7 where the shops are located. “I’m intelligent enough not to walk where I’d have a problem. Nobody is on that deck during the day and as an ex-Navy man, I have my sea legs,” he says.
When I ask whether he ever hits the casino on the same deck, he responds, “I was never a gambler.” He does, however, enjoy some of the entertainment, especially musical performances, on the ship.
Although stridently independent, the Captain maintains family ties. When the ship docks in Miami, both his sons (ages 64 and 68) often come on board to visit, sometimes with wives, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Occasionally old-timers will come aboard whom he remembers from the days when he cruised with his wife. He’s happy to see them. “At my age, most of my friends are dead,” he says.
A cell phone allows him to stay connected with family in-between visits and he keeps an Amazon Alexa in his cabin, which he uses about once a month to ask a question—like when he wasn’t sure whether Mongolia was an independent nation.
Sometimes people come over to his table to chat and he welcomes nice conversation but he rarely initiates small talk with fellow passengers. He is keenly aware of generational differences between himself and most guests on the ship who are closer to his sons’ ages. The exception: He feels extremely close to the crew, even the entertainers who feel like a family of sorts.
When I ask him if he’s happy, he convinces me that being captain of one’s fate is what’s most important.  “I couldn’t achieve this lifestyle anywhere else. If I need a nurse or doctor, someone is in my cabin within five minutes,” he says. “No matter what the time of day, if I need something, someone is here in 10-15 minutes. If I weren’t on this ship, I would have to have someone living with me,” he says.
“Where else could I feel this secure and safe? Life on board couldn’t be better,” he says.
By Irene S. Levine, Forbes
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
For more cruise news and articles go to https://www.cruisecrazies.com

Most guests on Seven Seas Navigator may not find anything unusual about the distinguished-looking man who eats alone every day, at lunch and dinner, at the same corner table of the Compass Rose dining room.
But when I learned that this passenger—whom the crew deferentially refers to as the “Captain”—has been residing on this same ship for more than 13 years, my curiosity was aroused.
Bish, the can-do butler assigned to our stateroom, promised to see if he could arrange an introduction. A few hours later, I was running off to my appointment to meet the Captain—at 4 p.m. teatime, in Galileo’s Lounge on Deck 11.
I knew exactly where to find him because Bish told me that he also takes the same corner seat in the lounge each day, adjacent to a small stage where a pianist or guitarist performs 50s, 60s and 70s music. When I found the Captain, he was sipping his usual, a diet tonic water, on a ship with a complimentary open bar.
At the age of 94, Morton Jablin could easily pass for someone twenty years younger. He is slim, well-groomed and silver-haired. He looks like the retired executive he is, with dark eyes behind his glasses that exude intelligence, confidence and warmth. He’s an engaging conversationalist with a mind and memory that are both remarkably agile.
As our conversation begins, I’m anxious to get to the crux of the matter. Why has he been living on a ship, this particular ship, for so many years?
“I couldn’t achieve this lifestyle anywhere else,” he says. “The crew is overly gracious and kind to me. I can’t think of enough good adjectives. They are unbelievable.”
He sounds like one happy camper — or sailor.
From humble roots
Captain Jablin proudly tells me that he was raised in Brooklyn. After spending time abroad with the U.S. Navy Office of Naval Intelligence, he returned to the States in 1946, where he worked as a registered pharmacist making $65 a week. “My wife Charlotte and I raised two children in what was then a different world,” he says.
While overseas, he met a German textile manufacturer who asked him to introduce lace-making machines to the U.S. market. From that collaboration, the Captain eventually built what became his own successful lace-making business. Since that time, much of the lace industry moved from Europe and the U.S. to China, where labor is cheaper, but his company has managed to stay afloat. (It still owns 45 of the 70 machines that currently produce lace in the U.S.) Captain Jablin retired in 1989 and left the business in the hands of one of his grandsons, now 42.
A mutual love of the sea
“My wife, Charlotte always traveled with me and we made friends with other couples and crew,” he says. The two were avid cruisers, sailing on a number of different cruise lines over more than a half-century.
When one crew member they knew retired from another line to work on a private yacht, he suggested that the Jablins try cruising on Radisson Seven Seas Cruises (which was renamed Regent Seven Seas Cruises in 2006). The couple sailed on Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager for five years. In 2000, they decided to move to Seven Seas Navigator, the smallest ship in the Regent fleet (with fewer than 500 passengers).
When Charlotte passed away 13 years ago, Captain Jablin made Seven Seas Navigator his home. He still maintains a condo in Boca Raton, Florida to keep his “stuff” and to qualify for health benefits and Social Security but it’s been three or four years since he’s set foot there, he says.
About a year and a half ago, after his eyesight began to fail, the Captain could no longer go on shore excursions (except for occasional medical appointments). He says he is now 90% blind. He accepts the limitations posed by his age and health as he lives on board a ship that is sailing all over the world. “Charlotte and I had already been everywhere,” he says.
“I used to get four newspapers, and do Sudokus and crossword puzzles but I haven’t been able to do that either for the last two years,” he says.
Sticking to a routine
Now he is keeping things simple. “My life is very routine but comfortable,” he says. An early riser, he has breakfast in his cabin. He eats lunch and dinner at that corner table in the main dining room, and he appreciates that it is always set in the same way so he has no problem finding the salt.
“The food is excellent overall but I prefer to eat Dover sole at both meals, every day,” he says. He eats alone because he is self-conscious about food not making it to his mouth as neatly as it once did.
Seven Seas Navigator is an all-suite luxury ship. The cruise line has made minor stateroom accommodations to make things easier for the Captain, one of their most loyal passengers. “They’ve installed brighter lights in my cabin, handrails in the bathroom and a special shaving mirror,” he says.
To stay fit, he exercises regularly. He knows his way around the ship and walks about two hours daily, usually on Deck 7 where the shops are located. “I’m intelligent enough not to walk where I’d have a problem. Nobody is on that deck during the day and as an ex-Navy man, I have my sea legs,” he says.
When I ask whether he ever hits the casino on the same deck, he responds, “I was never a gambler.” He does, however, enjoy some of the entertainment, especially musical performances, on the ship.
Although stridently independent, the Captain maintains family ties. When the ship docks in Miami, both his sons (ages 64 and 68) often come on board to visit, sometimes with wives, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Occasionally old-timers will come aboard whom he remembers from the days when he cruised with his wife. He’s happy to see them. “At my age, most of my friends are dead,” he says.
A cell phone allows him to stay connected with family in-between visits and he keeps an Amazon Alexa in his cabin, which he uses about once a month to ask a question—like when he wasn’t sure whether Mongolia was an independent nation.
Sometimes people come over to his table to chat and he welcomes nice conversation but he rarely initiates small talk with fellow passengers. He is keenly aware of generational differences between himself and most guests on the ship who are closer to his sons’ ages. The exception: He feels extremely close to the crew, even the entertainers who feel like a family of sorts.
When I ask him if he’s happy, he convinces me that being captain of one’s fate is what’s most important.  “I couldn’t achieve this lifestyle anywhere else. If I need a nurse or doctor, someone is in my cabin within five minutes,” he says. “No matter what the time of day, if I need something, someone is here in 10-15 minutes. If I weren’t on this ship, I would have to have someone living with me,” he says.
“Where else could I feel this secure and safe? Life on board couldn’t be better,” he says.
By Irene S. Levine, Forbes
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
For more cruise news and articles go to https://www.cruisecrazies.com

Hi my name is Renee and I am here to help YOU solve some of the problems of packing for your next cruise! Let's face it packing for a cruise can be grueling and that is not the way it should be. Packing should be as much fun as the cruise itself!
Our luggage line is ready to service your packing needs and is called  "MY CRUISER™ - EZ PACK”.  It is truly easy to pack because it leaves no question about where to put your shoes, solves the problem with leaking toiletries and separates used laundry from everything else. The removable hanging bag feature is great to hang up in the  bathroom or inside the closet area since it eliminates the need to keep getting in and out of your suitcase. Plus NO PLASTIC BAGS NEEDED with "MY CRUISER™ - EZ PACK”
 
Let’s get cruisin’ with "MY CRUISER™ - EZ PACK"
Visit: www.mycruiserezpack.com

As Aussies across the country celebrate Christmas in July, Carnival Cruise Line today marked the official eve of the mid-winter season (24 July), Grinchmas Eve, with a thrilling spectacle across Sydney Harbour.
In an unexpected sight for Sydneysiders and cruisers, The Grinch dramatically winched himself from a helicopter above Sydney Harbour, in an attempt to steal the Christmas fun from Carnival Spirit.
After his fearless drop from the helicopter, Carnival cruisers then caught sight of The Grinch this morning causing chaos onboard the ship; pinching the Captain’s hat, hiding the turkey and stealing lollipops from the Cherry on Top sweet shop.
Today’s visit was an unexpected secret mission, but The Grinch will return for surprise appearances throughout Carnival’s Christmas cruises.
With over 45 activities to enjoy onboard each day, the fastest and steepest waterslide at sea – Green Thunder – and multiple live entertainment venues, in the end even the The Grinch couldn’t resist turning his frown upside down, dancing along to all of the fun he was witnessing onboard.
The Grinch has now made his way on-board Carnival Spirit, making amends with the Captain after stealing his hat and causing mischief.
The two have enjoyed a lovely Grinchmas Eve feast – they told jokes, shared Christmas stories and had FUN soaking up Sydney’s sunshine.
Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Line, Australia And www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!
Photos by: James Morgan of http://morgan-photo.com/

It's summertime, and the travel is not always so easy. Tourist attractions are crowded and TSA is busy. So, we asked travel agents for some ideas on how to beat the crowds and the heat to have the best family vacation ever. Here’s what they said:
1. Plan ahead. 
Use your precious travel time wisely by doing as much in advance as possible, suggests Roy Gal of Memories Forever Travel Group in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. Book your excursions and tours and even restaurants before you leave home, or ask your travel agent to do it for you.
2. Don’t miss the boat. Or the plane. 
Make sure to leave enough travel time to arrive at the airport or cruise ship no matter how bad the summer traffic might be, says Laurie Ann Delaney Bahna of Cruises, Inc., in Plainview, New York. And at Amanda’s Travels in Lawrence, Kansas, owner Amanda Storm suggests that “even though most agents will put your documents in a day-by-day order, you still need to remember to read them. If there is something very important for you to see, make an appointment on your electronic calendar (with a reminder 12 hours and 3 hours prior) or set an alarm on your phone. Traveling for long periods of time can make you lose track of days. It would be so sad if you miss out on the tour you have been waiting to see because you get your days mixed up.”
3. Check your travel documents. 
Make sure the expiration date on your passport is more than six months past your return date, and that you have any necessary paperwork to travel to your destination. If you are traveling with minors who have different last names from yours or without one parent, bring a notarized letter giving you permission to take them, and their birth certificate and passport, says Phyllis Samowitz of SmartFlyer. And check the spelling of your name on all your flight reservations and documents in advance.
4. Say yes to travel insurance. 
Summer storms or sudden illness can ruin both your best-laid plans and your budget. Buy some peace of mind by opting for a travel insurance plan, says Marge Lenau, owner of Wonderland Family Vacations, LLC, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
5. The more the merrier. 
Make it a true family trip by inviting extended family and friends to join you. The cousins and friends will help keep the kids entertained and “you can throw all the kids in that adjoining room and actually save some money and get a great vacation,” suggests Heather Di Pietro, owner of TravelSalesGroup in Charlotte, North Carolina. But, adds Helen Prochilo, owner of Promal Vacations in Long Beach, New York, “it’s imperative to book early — six months or more, depending on where you are going — to get the cabins or rooms you need” for even a small group.
6. Bring along some basic first aid. 
“Sunburn can really ruin your vacation, and sunscreen is an expensive purchase if you need to buy it,” so bring more than you think you will need, says Toni Day, president of Toni Tours Inc. in Levittown, New York. If you are headed to a cruise ship or foreign destination, pack some Band-Aids, aspirin, decongestants and Imodium, too, says Travelstore owner Cathy Udovch in Irvine, California. “Cruise ship medical facilities charge an arm and a leg, and trying to negotiate a pharmacy in another country can be daunting.”
7. Take a picture. 
Carry a photo of your passport in case you lose the original when you travel abroad. And if you are traveling with children, take a picture of them in the morning just in case you get separated and others have to help you look for them, suggests Kelley Austin, owner of a Cruise Planners franchise in Navasota, Texas.
8. Remember to have fun. 
“If you make a jam-packed schedule, it won’t feel like a vacation. Take time to breathe and let things happen on their own,” suggests Ashley Bennington, a mother of four kids under 12, at JCo Travel LLC in Rochester, New York. “Some of the best memories are made when you are doing nothing but being together.” At Go Away Often Travel in Nanuet, New York, Memory Creator Scott Walters puts it succinctly: “Lower your expectations. Expect delays, meltdowns and crowds. Pack your patience. Know that in most cases, if you miss something, it will be there next time.”
By Cheryl Rosen, Travel Market Report
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
For more cruise news and articles go to https://www.cruisecrazies.com

Whilst it is only 86 days to go until Majestic Princess calls Australia home, today she sailed into Keelung Taipei where she was joined by another Princess ship, Diamond Princess. Both ships were expertly captured by Princess Cruises' local port agent in Taiwan, Vicky Tsai.
Majestic Princess is currently sailing on roundtrip  itineraries from Taiwan and Diamond Princess is currently sailing on roundtrip itineraries from Japan. Majestic Princess carries 3,500 guests and weighs in at 143,00 GRT the ship will become the largest Princess ship to homeport in Sydney, Australia. Majestic Princess is due to arrive in Sydney on Saturday the 15th of September 2018 for the 2018/19 Australian cruising season.
“The anticipation and excitement for Majestic’s maiden season speaks to the momentous growth of our market. Incredibly, we have already announced her second season return before she’s arrived, to spearhead our largest Australian deployment in 2019, alongside Ruby Princess.”
During her inaugural Australian season, Majestic Princess will sail on 16 cruises to destinations including Fiji, New Zealand and Tasmania as well as two Asia voyages between Shanghai and Sydney, and Sydney and Hong Kong. 
 
The ultimate in premium cruising, Majestic Princess features 13 dining options including two restaurants with menus designed by Michelin star chefs – Harmony by Chef Richard Chen and La Mer by Chef Emmanuel Renaut – as well as more than 1000 square meters of designer shopping, the cruise line’s largest ever thermal suite and a dramatic over-the-ocean glass walkway, the SeaWalk.

Guests can choose from a wide range of high-end accommodation including suites, Club Class mini-suites, and new deluxe balcony rooms, with more than 80 per cent of the ship's 1780 staterooms offering private balconies.
Information supplied by: Princess Cruises And www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!
Photo supplied by: Princess Cruises.

A shower at sea should be an experience, and on this cruise ship, it will be.
Onboard Royal Caribbean’s new Spectrum of the Seas, select guests will be able to indulge in a shower with “unparalleled water views” — because their bathroom is actually floating off the side of the ship with nothing underneath it.
Guests who book the 2,809-square-foot Ultimate Family Suite will get a bevy of unique features, but the most eye-popping is the bathroom that juts out over the side of the ship.
The suite’s bathroom is cantilevered off the side of the boat, allowing guests to shower and bathe while suspended over the high seas. (The mock-up does not show any toilets in the floating bathroom.)

The two-level, three-bedroom suite can accommodate up to 11 guests, and features a slide for kids (or kids at heart) to get from the upper level down to the bottom. In addition to the floating bathroom, there’s also an en-suite recreation room for nights of karaoke, video games, or movie marathons.
As always, this ultimate experience doesn't come cheap: Booking the suite for a seven-day sailing starts at $50,000.
The Spectrum of the Seas will debut in Spring 2019 with cruises from Shanghai. Royal Caribbean says the new ship — capable of carrying up to 4,246 passengers — will be the largest sailing in Asia.

The ship is the first in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Ultra class of ships. Other notable features on the ship include the Sky Pad, a VR bungee jumping experience, on the ship’s aft.
By Cailey Rizzo, Travel + Leisure
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
For more cruise news and articles go to https://www.cruisecrazies.com

This may have happened a good number of years ago, but it's so unique that it's definitely worth sharing once again in case you haven't seen this before.  There's a quick video below too, to see it for yourself.
In 2010, Jan Schwiderek in partnership with the AIDA Cruises line, performed a stunt of water skiing behind the 68,500-ton (GRT) cruise ship AIDAbella for more than six minutes to achieve a Guinness world record.  
The stunt was performed in 2010 off the Spanish coast in the Bay of Alicante as passengers and crew aboard the 252 meter AIDAbella gathered at the stern of the ship to watch in awe.
To make this happen, a "rolling start" was deployed in which Jan Schwiderek was pulled up by a speedboat while on the skis at full speed of 14 knots.  The stunt lasted for 6 minutes and 25 seconds and to this day is the current world record for pulling a water-ski rider.
So, who wants to water ski behind a cruise ship?
 

The United States Coast Guard is searching for a 50-year-old Carnival Cruise Paradise passenger who reportedly went overboard approximately 85 miles west of Fort Myers, Fla.
The man, identified as Brian Lamonds of Greensboro, NC, was reported missing Tuesday morning as the ship was sailing from Tampa to Key West.
The Coast Guard was notified of the missing guest and are currently conducting a search, Carnival Cruise said in a statement to Fox News.
“On Tuesday morning, a male guest went overboard as the ship was sailing from Tampa to Key West, Florida. The Coast Guard was notified and is currently conducting a search for the guest. We are cooperating fully with all authorities.  Our Care Team is providing support and assistance to the guest’s family,” the statement read.
According to a press release, the Coast Guard Key West watch was notified of the missing passenger around 10 am and sent out a Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew, an Air Station Miami HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircraft crew and the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Isaac Mayo to aid in the search.
The Carnival Paradise departed Tampa on Monday for a six-day cruise.
By Alexandra Deabler, Fox News
Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more
For more cruise news and articles go to https://www.cruisecrazies.com