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VIVA Cruises announces first UK partnership sponsoring players at WimbledonVIVA Cruises announces first UK partnership sponsoring players at Wimbledon
European river cruise specialist,VIVA Cruises, has announced an exclusive partnership with players competing during high profile matches at Wimbledon. The partnership will see the “VIVA Cruises” logo being shown on the iconic polo-shirts that some of the players will be wearing while competing in the prestigious tennis tournament, taking place 1-14 July in London. Not only will the “VIVA Cruises” logo will be displayed on some of the players’ polos, but the aim of the partnership – VIVA Cruises’ first in the UK – is to attract tennis enthusiasts to European river cruising, one of the most enjoyable ways to explore some of the continent’s most beautiful destinations. Andrea Kruse, CEO of VIVA Cruises, said: “As the world’s top tennis players compete at Wimbledon, we’re proud to see some of them sporting our VIVA Cruises brand on their polos. Just as our river cruises offer a winning experience, we believe this partnership with players competing during Wimbledon is a match made in travel heaven – and hope to expand our partnership with them in the future.” Beyond the sponsorship of players, during the length of the tournament guests aboard some of VIVA Cruises’ most popular itineraries will be treated to quintessential British delicacies, namely strawberries and cream and glasses of Pimm’s. All food and drinks are included on all cruises as part of VIVA Cruises’ signature VIVA All-Inclusive product. VIVA Cruises was founded in 2018 as the first in house tour operator of Swiss shipping company, Scylla AG. Since then, it has grown rapidly and now boasts an eight-ship fleet sailing on major European rivers, including VIVA ONE and VIVA TWO – their two very own build ships; with the third one,VIVA ENJOY, launching at the end of this year. VIVA Cruises will be also offering new Douro itineraries on board new built ship,PORTO MIRANTE, from May 2025. 20 July, 2024 -
Meghan Trainor and Royal Caribbean International set the stage on Utopia of the Seas
Meghan Trainor and Royal Caribbean International set the stage on Utopia of the Seas
The invitation of the summer is here: Royal Caribbean International and GRAMMY-winning artist Meghan Trainor are hosting the ultimate party and concert. The world’s largest cruise line has named the singer and songwriter godmother of the new Utopia of the Seas, the ultimate short getaway bringing weekend energy to every day of the week, and the duo will celebrate with an exclusive 3-night celebration starting July 15. On deck for the 3-night cruise is one party after the next, from a live performance on Utopia by the “Timeless” singer while at Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas to the one-and-only naming party joined by the newly named godmother. It all takes place just days before the new vacation’s official July 19 debut in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. “It’s an incredible honor to join the Royal Caribbean family as godmother of Utopia of the Seas and set the tone for the parties to come,” said Meghan Trainor. “What’s better than being on vacation with the people you love and dancing to your favorite music? Let’s make some beautiful memories and get this party started!” Kicking off the 3-night celebration, Royal Caribbean and Trainor will officially name Utopia in the company of special guests, the ship’s crew members and media. Trainor, as godmother, will join a longstanding maritime tradition when she bestows safekeeping onto the ultimate short getaway, its crew and the millions who will vacation on Utopia for years to come. Keeping the party going will be Trainor’s exclusive show in the iconic open-air AquaTheater, and fans will also be able to slip behind the velvet ropes to meet the star in person. “Utopia of the Seas is where making the most of the weekend and every moment are more than a state a mind, they’re a reality any day of the week. This is the short getaway that’s all about celebrations, celebrating friends, family and the memories you make together,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Meghan embodies that in every way, from who she is to how she shares her music with the world, making her the perfect godmother to match Utopia’s big weekend energy. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the family and host a party of epic proportions fit for the ultimate short getaway.” The celebration will set the tone for vacations on Utopia, welcoming adventurers to make more memories on short getaways than ever before with the first of its kind to debut with 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday vacationers.Friends and families can celebrate any occasion or just getting away their way with a lineup of experiencesthat brings unmatched weekend energy to the table. There’s everything from more than 40 ways to dine, drink and party, including a lineup of parties only on Utopia, two casinos andRoyal Railway – Utopia Station, a first-of-its-kind immersive train car dining experience; to more pools than the days to count, thrills; show-stopping entertainmentacross air, ice, water and stage; and more. The vibes also extend beyond Utopia because everyvacation includes time to thrill and chill on Royal Caribbean’sPerfect Day at CocoCayin The Bahamas. The top-rated private island ups the ante with 14 waterslides, thelargest freshwater pool in the Caribbean and The Bahamas, the newly openedadults-only oasis,Hideaway Beach,that featuresa private beach, pools and spots for drinks and bites, exclusive cabanas and a live DJ; and more.With the combination of Utopia and Perfect Day at CocoCay, it’s the short getaway that keeps on giving. 20 July, 2024 -
Meghan Trainor and Royal Caribbean set the stage for the party of the summer on Utopia of the Seas
Meghan Trainor and Royal Caribbean set the stage for the party of the summer on Utopia of the Seas
The invitation of the summer is here: Royal Caribbean International and GRAMMY-winning artist Meghan Trainor are hosting the ultimate party and concert. The world’s largest cruise line has named the singer and songwriter godmother of the new Utopia of the Seas, the ultimate short getaway bringing weekend energy to every day of the week, and the duo will celebrate with an exclusive 3-night celebration starting July 15. On deck for the 3-night cruise is one party after the next, from a live performance on Utopia by the “Timeless” singer while at Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas to the one-and-only naming party joined by the newly named godmother. It all takes place just days before the new vacation’s official July 19 debut in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. “It’s an incredible honor to join the Royal Caribbean family as godmother of Utopia of the Seas and set the tone for the parties to come,” said Meghan Trainor. “What’s better than being on vacation with the people you love and dancing to your favorite music? Let’s make some beautiful memories and get this party started!” Kicking off the 3-night celebration, Royal Caribbean and Trainor will officially name Utopia in the company of special guests, the ship’s crew members and media. Trainor, as godmother, will join a longstanding maritime tradition when she bestows safekeeping onto the ultimate short getaway, its crew and the millions who will vacation on Utopia for years to come. Keeping the party going will be Trainor’s exclusive show in the iconic open-air AquaTheater, and fans will also be able to slip behind the velvet ropes to meet the star in person. “Utopia of the Seas is where making the most of the weekend and every moment are more than a state a mind, they’re a reality any day of the week. This is the short getaway that’s all about celebrations, celebrating friends, family and the memories you make together,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Meghan embodies that in every way, from who she is to how she shares her music with the world, making her the perfect godmother to match Utopia’s big weekend energy. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the family and host a party of epic proportions fit for the ultimate short getaway.” The celebration will set the tone for vacations on Utopia, welcoming adventurers to make more memories on short getaways than ever before with the first of its kind to debut with 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday vacationers.Friends and families can celebrate any occasion or just getting away their way with a lineup of experiencesthat brings unmatched weekend energy to the table. There’s everything from more than 40 ways to dine, drink and party, including a lineup of parties only on Utopia, two casinos andRoyal Railway – Utopia Station, a first-of-its-kind immersive train car dining experience; to more pools than the days to count, thrills; show-stopping entertainmentacross air, ice, water and stage; and more. The vibes also extend beyond Utopia because everyvacation includes time to thrill and chill on Royal Caribbean’sPerfect Day at CocoCayin The Bahamas. The top-rated private island ups the ante with 14 waterslides, thelargest freshwater pool in the Caribbean and The Bahamas, the newly openedadults-only oasis,Hideaway Beach,that featuresa private beach, pools and spots for drinks and bites, exclusive cabanas and a live DJ; and more.With the combination of Utopia and Perfect Day at CocoCay, it’s the short getaway that keeps on giving. 20 July, 2024 -
Three new sailings as part of world voyage revealed by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Three new sailings as part of world voyage revealed by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Explorers looking for their next adventure can take advantage of three new shorter sailings as part of its 2025 world cruise. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled three new shorter cruises on board Bolette as part of her maiden 106-night world voyage in January 2025. From Southampton on 6th January, guests can embark on a 56-night ‘Exploring South America and the Pacific Islands’. They will be able to see some of the world’s most breath-taking panorama including the differing landscapes of Chile, culture and wildlife, witness the Moai statues on Easter Island and discover lesser-known gems like Robinson Crusoe Island. On 3rd March, Bolette will depart on a 29-night ‘Australian and South African Discovery’ cruise from Sydney, where guests will enjoy chances to encounter fascinating nature and wildlife and explore iconic sites such as the Opera House, Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia before exploring the changing landscapes of Reunion Island and search for the Big Five in South Africa. Alternatively, the 21-night ‘Scenic Vistas and Diverse Cultures of Africa’ cruise, leaving Cape Town on 1st April, will see guests explore the vast landscapes of the Namib Desert, witness Senegalese folklore and tribal cultures and experience the remoteness of the subtropical island of Jamestown, St Helena. Martin Lister, Head of Itinerary Product Development at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “Our 2025 World Cruise has already proven popular, and there are some incredible opportunities to be had as Bolette sails to gems across the globe. These shorter sailings will enable even more of our guests to share these experiences, with every port offering an incredible insight into culture, history, art or the chance to seek out native wildlife such as the Magellanic Penguins in Chile, quokkas in Australia and the Big Five in South Africa. Guests will be able to make the most of their time with us, whether it’s to explore ports of call further with our immersive shore tours or to relax on board as our smaller-sized ship enjoys scenic sailings between destinations.” The cruise to Sydney includes a post-cruise hotel stay before flying back to London Heathrow, while the cruise from Sydney to South Africa includes a pre-cruise hotel stay. There are also options to sail from or back into Liverpool from an additional £200 per person. 07 July, 2024 -
Riviera Travels Will Sarson promoted to Product Director
Riviera Travels Will Sarson promoted to Product Director
Riviera Travel has announced that Will Sarson has been appointed to the newly created role of product director, effective immediately. The new position will see him join the executive team and report to Robin Shaw, chief operating officer. Will has been with the river cruise and escorted tour specialist for nine years, most recently as head of product cruise and long haul. Phil Hullah, CEO at Riviera, said: “Product is already a crucial part of our business but as we move into the next stage of our development, our ability to innovate, develop and deliver the right products at pace will be vital in underpinning our ambitious plans. Therefore, the time is right for a specific product role, with Will firmly at the helm. “Will knows our business and our customers inside out, has deep experience in driving innovation and has also led our long-haul product category, as well as more recently picking up responsibility for river cruise and ocean. His remit will now expand to cover all product categories including Europe, supported by Joanne Lynn, who remains as head of product, Europe.” Will Sarson said: “Curating the perfect holidays for our customers has always been at that heart of Riviera and I am thrilled to be taking the lead on that as we enter a very exciting period. I’ve been with the business for close to a decade and in that time have overseen many new innovations such as our solo traveller programme, Walk & Discover active holidays and more recently our Signature escorted touring range. “I am looking forward to working alongside our passionate team of product experts as we prepare to welcome new ships to our fleet and further enhance our range of touring holidays.” 07 July, 2024 -
Seabourn and Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners name ultra luxury expedition ship
Seabourn and Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners name ultra luxury expedition ship
Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn’s newest ultra-luxury, purpose-built expedition vessel, has been names in a unique and historic expedition naming ceremony at Ngula Jar Island, Australia, on Saturday 29th June 2024. With guests on Zodiacs alongside the ship and the onboard team lined up along the decks, the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners names Seabourn Pursuit, marking the first time Traditional Owners named a ship. The day-long celebration and naming ceremony were thoughtfully planned to honour Wunambal Gaambera Country, people and Kimberley region, and guests were able to immerse themselves in the Aboriginal culture and history throughout the day. Guests took part in a remarkable Wunambal Gaambera welcome and smoking ceremony, “jimɨrri,” to welcome guests to the country and bid them safe travels. “Our smoking ceremony is done for visitors so that our old people’s spirits won’t follow them,” said Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owner Lillian Karadada. Afterwards, the “Junba,” a traditional story-telling song and dance, was carried out by Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners, painted in ochre. Guests also visited ancient rock art sites and heard the cultural stories of that area. Artworks by Wunambal Gaambera artists were on display and for sale. Seabourn and Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners exchanged gifts to celebrate their new relationship. In addition, Seabourn guests Vince and Jane Roig, who have sailed on every Seabourn inaugural voyage on the current seven-ship fleet, presented the Traditional Owners with a symbolic gift of art supplies as a token of appreciation for this new partnership together. The day culminated with the naming ceremony in Wunambal Gaambera language and English, where representatives from the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation wished Seabourn Pursuit an abundance of blessings and extraordinary expeditions to come in Wunambal Gaambera Country. Seabourn used a specially made bottle crafted from sugar and coated with sand from Ngula, Jar Island, to further celebrate and show respect to the land. Keeping with the time-honoured maritime tradition, guests and crew members both on board and on the Zodiacs cheered and celebrated the moment the bottle broke on the bow of the ship. Seabourn President Natalya Leahy shared her excitement about the special relationship Seabourn has built with the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners - their country and people - whose rich cultural history, deep connection to the land and sea, and established sustainable tourism initiatives, combine to make them a natural fit to be godparents for Seabourn Pursuit. “This day marks a very special event with the christening of Seabourn Pursuit, our newest ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ship. This is a wonderful maritime tradition, and today is extra special for us because we asked the Wunambal Gaambera to be the ship’s godparents, which marks the beginning of long sustainable partnership between our brand and this community. We know our guests visit these wonderful places in the world because they believe in the transformative power of travel, and today we celebrate exactly this,” said Leahy. “We are honoured to be the godparents of Seabourn Pursuit and share our culture with their crew and guests. It’s good to see our people working on Country and sharing our unique culture in the right way. Living and working on Country is important for us. When we are living and speaking language on Country, we are healthy. Thank you, Seabourn, for your support. Biyanga graa winya – Welcome,” said Catherine Goonack, Chair, Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation. Also in attendance were Ms. Divina D’Anna, MLA, and Parliamentary Secretary to Deputy Premier Hon. Rita Saffioti MLA (Deputy Premier; Treasurer; Minister for Transport; Tourism; Member for West Swan), and Di Bain, the Chair of Tourism Western Australia. Seabourn chose the Kimberley for the site of the naming ceremony because the region represents everything for which the ship is intended, while also affording the opportunity for the line to create a lasting relationship with Wunambal Gaambera as an investment in sustainable tourism. The relationship with Wunambal Gaambera serves as a symbolic gesture of stewardship and responsibility toward the environment and the communities that Seabourn visits. As part of the alliance, Seabourn is making a donation to assist Wunambal Gaambera develop a self-sustaining industry, producing authentic works of art and craft by Wunambal Gaambera artists to sell. In addition, Seabourn is contributing pearl shells, various art supplies, and polishing materials to foster sustainable, commercial arts and craft initiatives year-round for Wunambal Gaambera artists and craft producers. Seabourn further intends to work alongside Wunambal Gaambera as they share their unique Uunguu Experience, imparting Wanjina Wunggurr culture through welcome and smoking ceremonies; rock art tours; junba song and dance; and art and stories from the Uunguu Rangers who are looking after and keeping the country healthy. Seabourn's monetary contribution adds to funding already received from the State Tourism Authority, Tourism Western Australia, that will assist Wunambal Gaambera’s development of tourism facilities and products for Traditional Owners to live on their country during the dry season when tourism operators can access the vast coastline of the Kimberley region. Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation is to be commended on the implementation of their Uunguu Visitor Management Plan to reconnect with their country, to manage visitor access and take leadership in the tourism industry, and to engage with water-based visitors who arrive on their land, thus participating in the value chain that operators like Seabourn offer. Ngula Jar Island will be featured on all Seabourn itineraries in the Kimberley, ensuring consistent visitation to Wunambal Gaambera Country. Seabourn Pursuit offers the same luxurious small ship experience that travellers have come to expect from Seabourn, enhanced by world-class equipment that allows the line to offer its widest range of expedition activities led by an expert 24-person expedition team of scientists, scholars, naturalists, and more. Designed and built for remote, diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards, the ship includes a plethora of modern hardware and technology that extends the ship’s global deployment and capabilities. There is close to 30,000 square feet of deck space and special touches at every turn, as well as indoor and outdoor guest areas with nearly 270-degree views. In addition, a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera is mounted on the mast of the Constellation Lounge and capable of broadcasting imagery from miles ahead on monitors located throughout the ship and in guest suites. 07 July, 2024 -
Oceania Cruises Floats Out New Ship
Oceania Cruises Floats Out New Ship
Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has marked an important milestone in the construction of its new 1,200-guest ship, Allura, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Sestri Ponente, Italy, bordering the famed seaport of Genoa. A landmark moment as the ship moves towards completion, the vessel was floated from the dry-dock and moved to the fitting-out berth to begin outfitting the luxurious, designer-inspired interiors. The ship was blessed by the shipyard’s chaplain, Father Stefano, in a low-key ceremony in deference to the recent passing of General Claudio Graziano, Chairman of Fincantieri.Allura’s shipyard Madrina, Caterina Romeo, a designer in Fincantieri’s technical department, christened the ship as is traditional, endowing blessings upon the vessel and all who embark upon her. "Our hearts and minds are with the entire team at Fincantieri as they mourn the passing of General Graziano,” stated Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. “The float out is an important moment for all at Oceania Cruises and Fincantieri, as we progress closer to Allura joining our family. Now that we have completed her shell, we are excited to get started on her interior. We have lots of exciting enhancements on Allura, our eighth vessel, further elevating our offerings and firmly cementing Oceania Cruises as the only ultra-premium cruise brand.” Allura is striding quickly towards her debut and is now entering the final stages of construction focusing on her opulent suites, sophisticated lounges, and exceptional restaurants, all embodying Oceania Cruises' commitment to culinary excellence and destination immersion. Allura promises to be a masterpiece of refined design and innovative offerings, setting new standards in the cruise industry. Allura will officially enter service from Trieste, Italy, on July 18, 2025, cruising six days to Athens, Greece, calling at gems in the Eastern Mediterranean including Rijeka, Croatia; Ravenna, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Kotor, Montenegro. Following her summer season in the Mediterranean, Allura will sail to Canada and New England for a series of immersive voyages in North America before her premiere winter season in the Caribbean, homeporting in Miami. As part of her inaugural collection, Allura will also be conducting a one-of-a-kind four-day voyage sailing roundtrip from New York City in September 2025.Allura is the eighth vessel for Oceania Cruises and the line’s second 1,200-guest Allura Class ship. She follows her sister ship, Vista, which launched to great global acclaim in May 2023.Allura highlights include: A new onboard crêperie, serving freshly made-to-order crêpes and waffles, as well as decadent ice cream sundaes in the afternoon. A luxurious new library, featuring walls of floor-to-ceiling glass, oversized chairs and plush residential furnishings, located just steps away from LYNC Digital Center, the ship’s digital and social hub, as well as ever-popular Horizons. One chef for every 10 guests, and 50% of crew members are dedicated to culinary experiences. Five speciality dining venues, including the line’s newest signature restaurants, Ember and Aquamar Kitchen, at no extra cost. 1,200 guests served by 800 crew members; two crew members for every three guests. The most spacious standard staterooms at sea, at an astounding 291 square feet. Hundreds of immersive shore excursions and tours to choose from on each sailing. Onboard enrichment, including art classes at Oceania Cruises’ much-loved Artist Loft, numerous guest speakers and sommelier demonstrations during exclusive Sommelier’s Choice and Cellar Master’s Classic Wine Pairing Luncheons. An expansive hands-on Culinary Center and accompanying Chef’s Studio, where epicurean secrets will be shared by the talented onboard chef instructors. 07 July, 2024 -
Edinburgh District Sea Cadets welcomed aboard Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Edinburgh District Sea Cadets welcomed aboard Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines have welcomed 24 Sea Cadets from the Edinburgh District Sea Cadets, in a chance to learn more about life at sea and step aboard a cruise ship. Last Thursday (27thJune), duringBalmoral’s inaugural call of 2024 to the Port of Rosyth, the Sea Cadets were welcomed by members ofBalmoral’s Bridge Team, including Captain Steffan Ravneng, Safety Officer Euan Ross and two deck cadets. Following breakfast with Captain Ravneng and a talk about life at sea, the cadets were taken to the lower decks including the engine control room and toured the public areas of the ship followed by a lunch in the Ballindalloch restaurant. Cadets came from across the Edinburgh District from groups including the Edinburgh Trinity Unit, Leith Unit, Musselburgh Unit and Dunbar Unit. Ewan Galloway, District Officer for Edinburgh Sea Cadets, said: “Bringing together cadets from all across Edinburgh for a cruise ship experience was a remarkable opportunity to showcase and embrace the skills cultivated in the Sea Cadets. This visit not only highlighted the relevance of these skills in the maritime sector but also left every cadet feeling privileged and inspired. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for the wonderful opportunity provided by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. Seeing the cadets' faces light up upon arriving at the beautiful ship,Balmoral, was truly delightful.” Stuart Ferguson, Head of Quality and Resource at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:“It’s always a real pleasure for us to welcome young people on board our ships to learn more about life at sea. As a business that places a huge amount of importance on supporting local communities, we are proud to have welcomed the Edinburgh District Sea Cadets aboardBalmoral. There are so many opportunities to grow, develop and lead fulfilling careers across the maritime sector and we hope to have inspired some of these bright young minds about what can be available in their own futures.” Sea Cadets are a national youth charity founded in 1856, offering a variety of opportunities and adventures to young people aged from 10 – 18 years old following a rank structure similar to that of the Royal Navy. 07 July, 2024 -
Compass project provides second year of travel inspiration for Year 12 students
Compass project provides second year of travel inspiration for Year 12 students
A programme which aims to create greater social mobility, diversity and inclusivity in the travel and cruise industries has successfully concluded its second year. The Compass Project was devised by Matthew and Edwina Lonsdale of Mundy Cruising, in partnership with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). It enables sixth-form students from socially diverse backgrounds to learn more about the travel and cruise sectors, and associated career opportunities. Twenty-four students from Year 12 - twelve each from St John Bosco College in Battersea and Itchen Sixth Form College in Southampton - were involved in the two-month initiative, all of whom are studying for A-Levels or equivalent. The programme included at least seven off-site days, which were supported by cruise brands and partner organisations, with the aim of improving students’ industry knowledge and career prospects, as well as enhancing their confidence and presentation skills. Students visited three cruise ships - P&O Cruises’ Britannia, MSC Virtuosa and Silversea’s Silver Spirit - in Southampton. The Itchen College students additionally attended the CLIA conference in May. Two classroom days were also overseen by training and development consultant, Debbee Dale. Students rounded off the programme by making a presentation on ‘why I would recommend a friend to apply for a job in cruise’ to an invited audience, including cruise industry representatives. St John Bosco College took part in the original pilot programme in 2023, with Itchen College signing up alongside them for the second year. Matthew Lonsdale, Mundy Cruising Director, said: “When we started the Compass Project last year, we were simply trying to open young peoples’ minds to the prospect of working with cruise lines. But what we and our partner cruise lines have managed to show students is that such a career can encompass a vast range of roles, disciplines and opportunities. Working for a cruise line can mean so much more than simply working in the cruise industry." Paul Dunne, Head Teacher at St John Bosco College, said: “We were very excited to have the opportunity to build this innovative and exciting partnership with different companies from within the cruise industry, and are delighted at how much our students have enjoyed and learned from their experiences on The Compass Project. This is definitely a project that we will continue to support and invest in as part of our commitment to preparing our young people for life beyond the classroom.” Kim Wyeth, Curriculum Manager of Travel & Tourism at Itchen Sixth Form College, said: “We feel privileged to be selected to be part of The Compass Project. The students have thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the cruise industry and the different jobs it offers. Living close to the city, most students have a little understanding of the cruise industry but didn't quite know how much it has to offer and how each ship can vary so much. This project has given them a true insight into this sector and how many opportunities await them.” Andy Harmer OBE, CLIA UK and Ireland Managing Director, said: “Congratulations to all the students for their enthusiasm, ideas and hard work. They are a talented pool of applicants who are now ready to take their first employment steps, including via holiday jobs, apprenticeships or potentially a full-time position. As cruise continues to go from strength-to-strength it’s heartening to see such a talented group looking to start their careers and contribute to the industry's success.” Edwina Lonsdale said: “We could not operate this project without the fabulous support of our inspiring partners, and we’d like to publicly thank Royal Caribbean Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, AmaWaterways, P&O Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, APT River Cruises, Scenic River Cruises, ARosa River Cruises, MSC Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Princess Cruises and Seabourn for their support. “Graham Sadler’s huge input in overseeing the Southampton programme has been invaluable, not to mention the amazing Debbee Dale training days that bookend the programme.” 07 July, 2024 -
Celebrity Cruises Wine Programme earns 18 Wine Spectator Awards
Celebrity Cruises Wine Programme earns 18 Wine Spectator Awards
When it comes to wine programmes at sea, there is no match to the outstanding offering from Celebrity Cruises. The premium holiday brand set a record last night after being honoured 18 times at the 2024 Wine Spectator Awards, with the cruise line now boasting 136 awards received over the last 12 years. Awards included five coveted “Best Of” Awards of Excellence for Celebrity Cruises Edge® Series, including recognition for Le Voyage, global culinary ambassador Daniel Boulud’s only restaurant at sea. “We are continually innovating and expanding our beverage offerings to remain at the forefront of trends and meet the preferences of Celebrity guests,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises. “We are honoured to receive continued recognition for our elevated wine programme from the experts at Wine Spectator.” Celebrity Cruises received the following 2024 Awards of Excellence for the 12th consecutive year: 2024 Award of Excellence - Opus on Celebrity Reflection 2024 Award of Excellence - Grand Cuvée on Celebrity Silhouette 2024 Award of Excellence - Grand Epernay on Celebrity Solstice 2024 Award of Excellence - Moonlight Sonata on Celebrity Eclipse 2024 Award of Excellence - Silhouette on Celebrity Equinox 2024 Award of Excellence - Cosmopolitan on Celebrity Summit 2024 Award of Excellence - Metropolitan on Celebrity Millennium 2024 Award of Excellence - San Marco on Celebrity Constellation 2024 Award of Excellence - Trellis on Celebrity Infinity Celebrity Cruises’ 2024 Wine Spectator Awards honours also include: 2024 Best of Award of Excellence – Le Voyage, Celebrity Ascent 2024 Best of Award of Excellence – Le Voyage, Celebrity Beyond 2024 Best of Award of Excellence – Tuscan, Celebrity Ascent 2024 Best of Award of Excellence – Tuscan, Celebrity Beyond 2024 Best of Award of Excellence – Cyprus, Celebrity Apex 2024 Award of Excellence – Normandie, Celebrity Edge 2024 Award of Excellence – Fine Cut, Celebrity Ascent 2024 Award of Excellence – Fine Cut, Celebrity Beyond 2024 Award of Excellence – Fine Cut, Celebrity Apex When sailing with Celebrity Cruises, discerning wine connoisseurs and novices alike can delight in more than 500 wine selections representing the world’s most sought-after regions and most acclaimed labels. Celebrity sails with a trained sommelier in every restaurant, eager to help guide guests through the extensive choices from around the world, including a wide selection from Celebrity’s own private labels. In addition to the robust, award-winning wine offering and venues, guests can indulge in a variety of wine-focused programmes to satisfy their every curiosity, including: World Wine Tours, offering opportunities to sample different wines from across the globe and learn about regional and varietal technicalities. Food and Wine Pairing Workshops, featuring samples of contrasting pairings to educate on the fundamentals of food and wine chemistry, and, how food and wine interact. Destination Wine Tours, which immerse guests in beautiful regional wine-producing areas around the world, including winery tours and tastings. Cellar Masters, allowing guests to try a bold collection of handpicked wines, from the familiar to the unknown, from around the world. Cellar Masters is currently offered aboard seven Celebrity ships: Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Millennium, Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Solstice, and Celebrity Summit. 07 July, 2024