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Silver Ray Silversea Newest Ship Departs on First Grand VoyageSilver Ray Silversea Newest Ship Departs on First Grand Voyage
Silver Ray, the newest ship in the Silversea fleet, departed Fort Lauderdale on January 20th to mark the start of its first-ever Grand Voyage — a 71-day circumnavigation of South America. Kicking off the celebrations with a curated gastronomic showcase of South American specialties, guests were welcomed at an exclusive Bon Voyage dinner among the exotic flora and art-filled halls of Bonnet House Museum & Gardens in Fort Lauderdale on January 19th. “The entire Silversea team bids bon voyage to our guests traveling aboard Silver Ray – our newest ship – for the Grand Voyage South America 2025,” said Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea. “As the leading experiential luxury travel brand, we pride ourselves on creating unique moments for our guests. This 71-day voyage will incorporate four once-in-a-lifetime events, curated by our team exclusively for guests on our Grand Voyage, to showcase the authentic soul of the destinations they’re visiting, including winetasting among the vines in Valparaiso, front row seats at the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, and a sophisticated evening spent celebrating Bajan culture in Bridgetown.” 38 DESTINATIONS, 17 COUNTRIES, 71 DAYS, 11 OVERNIGHTS Guests will explore a mix of 38 remote and iconic destinations in 17 countries during the extended sailing. Passing through the Panama Canal, this immersive voyage will take in South America’s diverse highlights, from the iconic cities of Lima, Valparaiso, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and Rio de Janeiro to natural wonders including Chile’s fjords, the Garibaldi Glacier, and the verdant Amazon Rainforest. Connecting travelers with the vibrant Latin American culture, Silver Ray will spend three overnights in Rio de Janeiro, where guests will witness the greatest show on earth – the famous Carnival. Ahead of arriving in Fort Lauderdale on April 1, 2025, travelers will discover some of the Eastern Caribbean’s most captivating destinations, with calls in Bequia, Castries (St. Lucia), St. John’s, St. Kitts (Basseterre), St. Thomas, and San Juan. FOUR EXCLUSIVE SILVERSEA EVENTS FOR DEEPER IMMERSION Festivities for the Grand Voyage South America 2025 kicked off at the dedicated Bon Voyage event in Fort Lauderdale on January 19th, hosted exclusively for Silversea’s guests on the sprawling 35-acre beachfront estate of Bonnet House. Evoking the romance of bygone days, guests sipped on cocktails once served on the estate by heiress, socialite, and avid traveler Evelyn Bartlett, before sitting down to an elegant dinner of South American specialties for a taste of the cuisines to come: smoked butternut squash and sage soup with nasturtium (a medicinal herb native to South America), aji verde marinated beef tenderloin with beef jus, Chilean sea bass with salsa verde, bizcocho de vainilla, and regionally inspired beverages. In addition to the Bon Voyage reception, travelers joining the Grand Voyage South America 2025 will enjoy tailored access to a selection of curated, once-in-a-lifetime events that will showcase the customs and traditions of the local culture: VINEYARDS & VINES: VALPARAISO, CHILE – FEBRUARY 8th, 2025 Guests will embark on an exclusive journey to the illustrious Kingston Family Winery in Chile's renowned Casablanca Valley, which was founded in the early 1900s by Carl John Kingston. While enjoying this breathtaking estate, guests will sample exquisite organic wine blends, hosted by Carl's descendants, savoring canapés of local flavors and enjoying music from local musicians. A traditional Chilean feast will round out the evening, before guests rejoin Silver Ray. THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH: RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – MARCH 2nd & 3rd, 2025 Guests will experience the unparalleled spectacle of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, a breathtaking celebration of culture, creativity, and passion that erupts onto the streets every year, as elite Samba schools compete alongside larger-than-life floats. Savoring local delicacies, travelers can experience the exhilarating energy and immerse themselves in the rhythm of Carnival from Silversea’s preferential seating in the exclusive Frisas section, perfectly situated along the Sambadrome's Parade runway. Guests will revel in the festivities at their own pace, ensuring a truly unforgettable Carnival experience. A BAJAN AFFAIR: BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS – MARCH 23rd, 2025 Travelers will step into the enchanting allure of Barbados with an exclusive al fresco evening at St. Nicholas Abbey, an historic plantation that dates back to 1658. As one of the only three Jacobean Great Houses remaining in the Western Hemisphere, this meticulously restored estate provides a magnificent setting for a celebration of Bajan cuisine and culture. Guests will indulge in a delicious meal paired with the island's quintessential rum, produced on site. They will enjoy the captivating ambiance as they sway to the rhythmic beats of local music. A BROAD OFFERING IN THE CARIBBEAN After circumnavigating South America, Silver Ray will join Silver Moon and Silver Shadow in the Caribbean, beginning March 23rd, completing Silversea’s three-ship line-up in the region. Between March and May 2025, nine voyages will immerse guests into the Caribbean’s rich cultures, idyllic natural beauty, and welcoming communities. Silversea will host guests on 13 Caribbean voyages aboard four ships in November and December 2025, and 19 more sailings on three ships in January and February 2026. Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Soufriere, St. Lucia; Little Bay, Montserrat; and St. John feature among the destinations most anticipated by guests. SILVER RAY: AN IDEAL SHIP FOR SOUTH AMERICA’S DIVERSE ENVIRONMENTS The perfect ship for cruising such varied ecosystems as the Chilean Fjords and the Amazon River, Silver Ray’s innovative design immerses guests into destinations from virtually all venues and suites, with far-reaching views at every turn. This is most notable from the asymmetrical pool decks, which overlook the water on the starboard side. Among the most spacious cruise ships ever built, Silver Ray offers guests a space-to-guest ratio of 75 GRT-per-guest with one of the most personalized levels of service at sea, with a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.3, including butler service for all suites. Further enriching the onboard experience for guests on the Grand Voyage South America 2025 is the largest selection of bars, restaurants, and lounges in luxury cruising; Otium, the travel brand’s Roman lifestyle-inspired spa and wellness program; and the immersive culinary program, Sea and Land Taste (S.A.L.T.). Complementing culinary enrichments in the S.A.L.T. venues on board, Silversea’s guests can experience the following S.A.L.T. shore excursions, among others, on the Grand Voyage South America 2025: Manta, Ecuador: an eco-adventure to a stunning sustainable farm, fishing, foraging and cooking with one of Ecuador’s most celebrated chefs Arica, Chile: a deep dive into Chile’s northern cuisine with a market visit, an olive oil farm visit, and meze tasting Ushuaia, Argentina: an end-of-the-world gourmet journey through picturesque fishing villages to a sustainable farm to taste local specialties Buenos Aires, Argentina: a masterclass in Argentinian asado grilling with an unbeatable view Santarem, Brazil: an exploration of the unique ingredients and flavors of the Amazon Rainforest, plus a barbecue of spectacular local seafood Valparaiso, Chile: hiking and foraging on the seaside for local treasures, followed by a guided tasting menu in a fairytale 1920s restaurant For more information on Silversea’s global range of Grand Voyages, please visit: https://www.silversea.com/destinations/grand-voyages-cruise.html 29 January, 2025 -
Swan Hellenic expands UK reservations team with two appointments
Swan Hellenic expands UK reservations team with two appointments
Swan Hellenic hasexpandedits UK and Europe reservations team with two appointments. Joanna Hili and Katrin Roberts have joined from Silversea Cruises as reservations manager and reservations consultant for the region, respectively. Hili has worked in luxury travel and sales for 10 yearsand leda team of 17 inher mostrecent role at Silversea. Roberts has eight years of experience in the luxury cruise sector. Mario Bounas,Swan Hellenic UK & Ireland general manager, said: “We’ve been on a journey relaunching Swan Hellenic and establishing ourselves as leaders in expedition cruising. Our growth is down to the hard work of our fantastic and ever-growing team, as well as the incredible support our travel partners across the UK have shown us. We are truly thankful and look forward to continuing to grow the business in the UK together.” He added that the expedition cruise line had made “remarkable achievements” over the last year, including a 264% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers and a 410% rise in revenue. Bounas explained: “These figures reflect the growing demand for the unique experiences Swan Hellenic offers and the dedication of our team in delivering exceptional service. The expansion of our UK team is a direct result of this success, ensuring we continue to provide the highest standards of support to our valued partners and customers.” 29 January, 2025 -
SeaDream Yacht Club Becomes First Cruise Line to Accept Cryptocurrency
SeaDream Yacht Club Becomes First Cruise Line to Accept Cryptocurrency
Boutique luxury cruise line SeaDream Yacht Club has become the first cruise line to accept cryptocurrency as a payment option for all voyages. Effective immediately, SeaDream guests can now book their ultra-luxury voyages to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Norway, and Northern Europe using Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and more than 200 of the most frequently used cryptocurrencies. As the first cruise line to embrace cryptocurrency, SeaDream is using the leading cryptocurrency payment platform Coinbase Commerce to ensure secure, reliable, and efficient payment processing. “SeaDream has always been an innovator, setting new standards in luxury travel. By accepting cryptocurrency, we are embracing a payment solution that is increasingly sought after by our guests,” said Andreas Brynestad of SeaDream Yacht Club. The announcement was made during the opening day of WAGMI Miami, America’s premier and longest-running crypto conference. “The strength in our community rests in the ability to foster groundbreaking partnerships. Working with a trailblazer like SeaDream Yacht Club brings together two true pioneers paving the way for others to follow,” said Moe Levin, founder of WAGMI Events. “SeaDream is not only the first cruise line but also the first major travel company to accept cryptocurrency – setting a new standard for the future of travel and payments and that’s why we’re proud to welcome them to our stage," said Levin. Streamlined Digital Payments SeaDream is also implementing a digital payment solution for cryptocurrency on its website SeaDream.com. The secure payment option will be fully integrated in the current booking system, and is expected to roll out over the coming weeks. “This underscores our commitment to staying ahead of emerging trends. For us, crypto is the natural next step forward,” said Brynestad. First Yacht Charter Crypto Payments SeaDream Yachts, known for their intimate size, inclusiveness, and exceptional service, are popular for corporate incentive charters, events, weddings, and other special occasions. SeaDream will also be the first cruise line to accept cryptocurrencies as payment for full-yacht charters. “The ability to use cryptocurrency further adds to the convenience and flexibility of our discerning charter guests, eliminating currency exchange challenges and enabling seamless transactions,” said Brynestad. 25 Years of Firsts Since founding modern yacht cruising in 2001, family-owned and -operated SeaDream Yacht Club has shaped and defined the luxury cruise segment. On board the all-inclusive line, guests can enjoy casual luxury in contemporary surroundings with no more than 100 fellow guests, and 1-1 guest-to-crew ratio. SeaDream was the first cruise line to introduce Starlink, the fastest internet at sea, across the fleet. The company has also pioneered the luxury culinary gourmet scene, including the first and biggest plant-based menu at sea. Other recent firsts include the cruise industry’s first fleet-wide installation of shore power connection, and introduction of the first and only water slides on any cruise ship to take you directly from the ship to sea. 29 January, 2025 -
MSC Cruises Announces Long Term Commitment To Port Canaveral With Deployments Confirmed Through 2028
MSC Cruises Announces Long Term Commitment To Port Canaveral With Deployments Confirmed Through 2028
MSC Cruises unveiled plans today to offer more cruises from Port Canaveral, giving guests additional vacation options when sailing from the popular Florida port. The line’s fourth World Class ship will join the lineup at Port Canaveral for the Winter 2027-2028 season, offering year-round 7-night Caribbean itineraries. The ship, which has yet to be named, will join MSC World America as the company’s second World Class ship operating in North America. In the meantime, MSC Grandiosa will begin offering year-round 7-night Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral starting with the Winter 2026-2027 season, building upon previously announced plans to deploy the ship at Port Canaveral for an inaugural season during Winter 2025-2026. MSC Seashore will continue to offer year-round 3- and 4-night cruises to The Bahamas and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Lynn Torrent, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, MSC Cruises USA, said: “Our commitment to Port Canaveral is stronger than ever, thanks to the incredible support from our partners there and the growing demand from our guests who love the port’s convenient location. Having ships dedicated to offering both short and 7-night cruises year-round will ensure we have the right options available no matter when someone wants to sail. We’re especially excited to bring a World Class ship to Port Canaveral, continuing our long-standing pledge to deploy our most modern and innovative ships in the Caribbean market.” Capt. John Murray, CEO, Port Canaveral, said: “We are excited to have MSC Cruises expand their presence at Port Canaveral with the arrival of MSC Grandiosa and the deployment of their fourth World Class ship to homeport with us. The addition of these exceptional ships to our homeported fleet will add even more sailing options from Central Florida and reaffirm the cruise industry's confidence in our ability to consistently deliver a world-class guest experience.” MSC Cruises’ World Class platform launched with MSC World Europa in 2022. In April, the company’s U.S. guests will discover a new world of cruising when the brand new MSC World America begins sailing 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami. MSC World America will feature: 19 dining venues, including the only Eataly restaurant at sea 18 bars and lounges, including all-new venues like All Stars Sports Bar and The Loft comedy club The Harbour, an all-new outdoor venue for families featuring the Cliffhanger over-water swing ride, a ropes course, a water park, a playground, relaxation areas, and complimentary grab-and-go dining The outdoor World Promenade, featuring shopping, dining and one of the longest dry slides at sea along with fantastic ocean views The 3-level World Galleria, bustling with activity and lined with bars, shops and restaurants The largest MSC Yacht Club in the Caribbean, catering to travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity Seven districts aimed at providing distinct spaces that will allow every type of traveler to choose their own vacation experience 29 January, 2025 -
Oceania Cruises Reprises Signature French Restaurant
Oceania Cruises Reprises Signature French Restaurant
Oceania Cruises®, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, will be bringing its signature French restaurant, Jacques, on board its newest ship, AlluraTM, which launches in mid-July. Named after renowned chef Jacques Pépin, the founding father of Oceania Cruises’ culinary philosophy and the line’s first-ever Executive Culinary Director, this sophisticated restaurant is already a crowd favourite with Oceania Cruises guests sailing on Marina™ and Riviera™. In addition, Jacques will make its debut aboard VistaTM, Allura’s sister ship, in October 2025, joining the Polo Grill steakhouse, Italian restaurant Toscana, and pan-Asian Red Ginger on all four of the line’s 1,200+ guest ships. Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, said: “Jacques is our culinary patriarch, having been a member of the culinary team since day one. His creativity and expertise form the very heart of our philosophy, The Finest Cuisine at Sea, which drives everything we do. Bringing this fabulous restaurant to Allura as she launches this summer, and to Vista later in the year, means the world to me, and the entire Oceania Cruises family.” Oceania Cruises’ two Executive Culinary Directors and Master Chefs of France, Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale, will be working with Chef Pépin to bring new flavours to the menu, as well as honing the well-loved dishes that have been on the menu since Jacques was first introduced to the fleet when Marina was launched. Chef Pépin commented: “I am so excited to be writing the next chapter of Jacques with my friends and colleagues, Chefs Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale. This is the perfect opportunity to experiment with some delicious new dishes and to explore unique ways to serve some of the classics that our guests have come to know and love. We have lots of exciting plans for this latest iteration of Jacques. I cannot wait to share them.” Chef Quaretti added: “It is wonderful to bring Jacques to our two newest ships, and I am thrilled to be working alongside the man himself to create this latest version of our signature French restaurant. When considering this new generation of Jacques, it was very important for me to introduce recipes from personal childhood memories and to share my vision of French family food as well as honouring the classic French bistro experience.” Oceania Cruises’ most-loved dishes from Jacques on board Marina and Riviera will remain on the menu, alongside a selection of new options. These include duck with a Grand Marnier-infused orange sauce, and a veal medallion with a morel sauce, in addition to new vegetarian dishes. For those with a sweet tooth, classic French desserts Crêpes Suzette and profiteroles will join other indulgent choices on the dessert trolley. Guests can look forward to more experiential dining in Jacques through the introduction of tableside service for a range of new dishes, including beef tartare. This, plus new, carefully chosen crockery, glassware, and silverware to reinforce the importance of “l’art de la table,” augments the authentic Parisian bistro experience. Del Rio commented: “Our beautiful new ship, Allura, represents Oceania Cruises’ dazzling future but also honours our history. The addition of Jacques to her and her sister, Vista, is a wonderful tangible example of this - celebrating our heritage, our heartfelt passion for food, while always looking ahead to what’s on the horizon.” For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 0345-505-1920, or speak with a professional travel advisor. 29 January, 2025 -
Explora Journeys to host hundreds of agents on its ships this year
Explora Journeys to host hundreds of agents on its ships this year
Explora Journeys plans to host hundreds of agents on its ships this year as it steps up its trade support. The luxury line has welcomed 600 agents from the UK and Ireland across its fleet over the past 18 months, but managing director Antonio Paradiso wants more agents to experience the product first-hand. Paradiso, who is also managing director of MSC Cruises, said: “There are still a lot of travel advisors who have not had the chance to experience Explora Journeys yet, so our mission is to make sure that we cover everyone, ideally as soon as possible. By January 2026, I would like to say we have had the opportunity to host up to 1,000 travel advisors.” Paradiso said the current wave season had started with “the strongest booking curve ever registered in the UK”, which he attributed to the line’s increased focus on the trade. He believed the early success was also due to the line’s offering of shorter itineraries compared with other luxury brands, with an average length of seven nights. Paradiso said this was attracting an increasing number of new-to-cruise passengers, with 25% of its customers in that segment, as well as younger customers, giving an average age of 50. Paradiso described this as “remarkable” for a luxury brand. The UK is Explora Journeys’ second-largest market and Paradiso is confident it will experience “high double-digit growth” this year and next, as the line continues to expand its distribution across the UK and Ireland. The trade represents the largest share of the line’s business in the UK, with 80% of sales coming via agents. Paradiso confirmed ExploraI and Explora III (due to launch in 2026) would sail itineraries out of Southampton, with opportunities for all the line’s ships to “call in the UK more often”, resulting in more opportunities for agent visits. 29 January, 2025 -
A-ROSA expands themed cruise programme
A-ROSA expands themed cruise programme
A-ROSA has expanded its themed cruise programme for this year with more departure dates, longer duration options and a new musicals cruise. The river cruise line previously only offered five-night themed cruises in the shoulder season months of March and November. Starting this year, there will be more choices of seven, nine and 14-night options with a wider range of departures, including summer dates. The new ‘Musicals up close’ cruise will host Marion Wilmer, who has starred in shows includingBeauty and the Beast,EvitaandCats, on six departures across the Rhine, Moselle and Danube. There are five, seven, nine and 14-night options available, with prices starting from £1,749 per person for the shortest option on board A-ROSA Silva sailing the Moselle on August 17. Other themed cruises include a seven-night ‘Rhythms of the Rhine’ dance-themed cruise in April leading in at £2,149 per person, a 14-night ‘Retreat on the River’ yoga and nutrition-themed cruise in June costing from £4,049 per person. Sample prices include flights. Lucia Rowe, A-Rosa River Cruises UK & Ireland managing director, said: “I am sure our new musical-themed cruise will really appeal to our UK customers, the songs are timeless and Marion’s voice gives you goosebumps. Extending the number of departures to include peak dates during the season, on a host of different itinerary lengths provides agents with more options to sell to customers with special interests.” 29 January, 2025 -
Dirty Dancing In Concert To Debut At Sea Aboard MSC Cruises Flagship MSC World America
Dirty Dancing In Concert To Debut At Sea Aboard MSC Cruises Flagship MSC World America
Get ready to have the time of your life aboard MSC World America, MSC Cruises’ new flagship, which will set sail April 2025. The ship will offer a spectacular lineup of entertainment options, including the first-ever at sea Dirty Dancing in Concert. The Concert will take the beloved Lionsgate film to the next level with live singers, dancers and musicians, bringing the screening of the iconic movie to life. The ship will also showcase a variety of other dazzling new entertainment options around the clock, from spectacular stage shows and live music to enriching activities, games and more. There’s something sure to wow guests of all ages and allow them to create memories of a lifetime. MSC World Americarepresents an evolution for the cruise line’s successful World Class platform and will usher in a new world of cruising with re-imagined venues and concepts tailored specifically to the U.S. market. The new flagship will also be the first to feature seven onboard districts designed to let guests of all ages choose their own holiday adventure and get the most out of their time on board. Steve Leatham, Vice President of Entertainment at MSC Cruises, said, “Delivering a diverse entertainment lineup for every type of holidaymaker is central to creating an unforgettable cruise experience. MSC World America provides an incredible platform to push the boundaries of entertainment at sea, and we’re introducing some exciting new concepts and productions. Our headline entertainment experiences, Dirty Dancing in Concert in the World Theatre and Queen Symphonic in the Panorama Lounge, will be unlike anything previously seen on our ships, resonating with both American and international audiences. These are just the beginning of our extensive entertainment options, which include an adults-only Comedy Club, authentic Duelling Pianos, and interactive family game shows. The onboard entertainment truly must be seen to be believed.” Each sailing will feature multiple chances to enjoy Dirty Dancing in Concert, including a matinee on sea days. During the 90-minute live-to-film concert, a talented live band and spectacular singers belt out classic songs in-sync with the movie, with dazzling dancers amping up the atmosphere. The event will culminate in a finale where guests will dance in the aisles and sing along in a Dirty Dancing-themed after party that continues the celebration well into the night. In addition to Dirty Dancing in Concert, guests on MSC World America will enjoy an impressive array of captivating international entertainment on board for all ages and tastes with new performances that will provide live concert experiences, magic shows and enchanting modern circus-style shows. There will also be immersive activities at Luna Park from e-gaming and dance classes to family gameshows and themed experiences. THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS World Theatre – Four new awe-inspiring entertainment experiences, produced in collaboration with industry-leading creators and producers, will take the stage at the 1,150-seat World Theatre: NEW Dirty Dancing in Concert - a live-to-film concert experience of the classic Lionsgate film that has marked a generation, brought to life with singers, dancers and musicians. NEW Odyssey – A captivating acrobatic spectacle set against the dreamlike backdrop of an ethereal journey influenced by Homer’s Odyssey. This production is being produced by Anystage Creative, a company known for its big spectaculars from Macau to Mumbai. NEW Momentous – One of the largest illusion shows ever produced at sea features a renowned resident guest artist who will captivate and amaze audiences with impressive moments of magic. This experience is created in collaboration with Twins FX, known for their stunning special effects in the musical "Back to the Future". Their work spans various Disney productions and notable films and TV series, including "Doctor Who," "Mission: Impossible," and "The Mummy”. NEW Hall of Fame – Experience the ultimate live pop concert featuring the iconic music and unforgettable moments of pop legends. This event is produced by ONLYCHILD, a multidisciplinary creative studio renowned for its work and collaborations in music, fashion, live theatre, and film. Their impressive credits include A-list music stars like Kylie Minogue, as well as partnerships with major brands such as MTV, Netflix, Vogue, and Missoni. Panorama Lounge – The Panorama Lounge at the back of the ship features two incredible live theatrical music concerts that can be enjoyed on various nights of the week, along with wellness programming during the day. MSC Cruises has collaborated with multi award-winning production company TBI Media, who specialize in creating and producing content for leading artists, broadcasters and major brands, from the Disney Theatrical Group to TikTok, and major large-scale live events for BBC television and radio. NEW Queen Symphonic – This exclusive version of the international hit concert *Queen Rock Symphonic* showcases a spectacular blend of Queen's greatest hits on a theatrical scale. Performed by a live rock band alongside talented singers, dancers, and awe-inspiring acrobatics, this dynamic event features a stunning 36-piece orchestra on screen - specially recorded for this production - providing the perfect backdrop for the show. NEW Cinesonic – A breathtaking concert of iconic movie songs and cinematic scores, brought to life by state-of-the-art motion graphics and exhilarating performances from the cast of superb singers, dancers and acrobats. With exciting new musical arrangements crafted exclusively for MSC Cruises, this concert celebrates the very best of movie magic! Street Theatre – Throughout the sailing, guests will enjoy a variety of surprise and delight pop-up moments from world-class performers throughout the ship. IMMERSIVE ACTIVITIES AT LUNA PARK Luna Park will be the ultimate entertainment hub on MSC World America, serving as a go-to venue for dynamic and progressive events throughout the cruise with activities from around the clock. Daytime activities include dance classes, enrichment talks, movies, e-gaming and virtual reality experiences. Nighttime activities include family and kids’ parties, family gameshows and late-night themed experiences for adults including a Miami Nights and Après, a Euro Alpine Party. NEW EXCITING NEW EXPERIENCES AT THE SHIP’S NEWEST VENUE – THE LOFT A new venue catering to the North American market, The Loft will provide a space for adults to come together and enjoy evening entertainment that goes late into the night with dueling pianos, comedy shows, karaoke and a late-night DJ. For more information about MSC World America here 29 January, 2025 -
A-ROSA expands themed cruise programme
A-ROSA expands themed cruise programme
A-ROSA has expanded its themed cruise programme for this year with more departure dates, longer duration options and a new musicals cruise. The river cruise line previously only offered five-night themed cruises in the shoulder season months of March and November. Starting this year, there will be more choices of seven, nine and 14-night options with a wider range of departures, including summer dates. The new ‘Musicals up close’ cruise will host Marion Wilmer, who has starred in shows includingBeauty and the Beast,EvitaandCats, on six departures across the Rhine, Moselle and Danube. There are five, seven, nine and 14-night options available, with prices starting from £1,749 per person for the shortest option on board A-ROSA Silva sailing the Moselle on August 17. Other themed cruises include a seven-night ‘Rhythms of the Rhine’ dance-themed cruise in April leading in at £2,149 per person, a 14-night ‘Retreat on the River’ yoga and nutrition-themed cruise in June costing from £4,049 per person. Sample prices include flights. Lucia Rowe, A-Rosa River Cruises UK & Ireland managing director, said: “I am sure our new musical-themed cruise will really appeal to our UK customers, the songs are timeless and Marion’s voice gives you goosebumps. Extending the number of departures to include peak dates during the season, on a host of different itinerary lengths provides agents with more options to sell to customers with special interests.” 29 January, 2025 -
Celebrity Cruises Announces Launch Of River Vacations
Celebrity Cruises Announces Launch Of River Vacations
Celebrity Cruises will usher in a new era in river cruising with Celebrity River Cruises, a premium river cruise vacation that will begin taking bookings this year. The brand has signed an initial order for 10 transformative ships that will take guests to historic cities on the world’s most iconic rivers, launching in Europe. Celebrity Cruises will bring the elevated design and sophistication of the Edge Series ocean ships to the river. When you combine that with the brand’s signature hospitality and unique itinerary offerings, Celebrity River Cruises will deliver unforgettable experiences – The Celebrity Way. “We’re thrilled to announce our entry into the river cruise market through our Celebrity Cruises premium travel brand. Our guests and travel partners should expect us to do what we do best – innovate and elevate the river cruise experience as we meet the growing demand for intimate, culturally enriching travel experiences,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “With about half of our guests having experienced or intending to vacation on a river cruise, we know they will enjoy Celebrity’s elevated offering on the river. By leveraging our valuable loyalty programs across our three brands, we will deepen customer engagement and further our ability to keep guests within our ecosystem of vacation offerings. We are the best in the world at delivering the vacation of a lifetime, and this is the latest example of how we are building the capabilities to deliver a lifetime of vacations.” Celebrity River Cruises is a natural extension of Celebrity’s premium offering that will bring its unique service-first approach to the river. Guests will get the keys to sail through the heart of culturally and historically significant cities, experience locally inspired cuisine and unique shore experiences – The Celebrity Way. With ships that will give guests 360 degrees of breathtaking views, every moment will be designed to immerse guests in the beauty of the journey. “Celebrity River Cruises will bring the quality and sophistication of our Edge Series ocean ships to the most iconic rivers, starting with Europe,” added Laura Hodges Bethge, President, Celebrity Cruises. “We’ve redefined travel on the ocean with our best-in-class hospitality, award-winning food and beverage experiences, and elevated design and style. We are thrilled to bring these experiences to the river and combine them with authentic, destination-rich itineraries that will give our guests an experience unlike any other.” This morning, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCCL) today reported its 2024 financial results and announced the launch of Celebrity River Cruises. Click [here] to access the release. More information about Celebrity River Cruises, including booking opportunities, destinations, fleet size and ship details, excursions and more, will be announced in the coming months. Go toCelebrityCruises.comand sign up to receive information first and follow on social media @CelebrityCruises. 28 January, 2025