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Saga Cruises Launch Partnership with BBC StudiosSaga Cruises Launch Partnership with BBC Studios
Saga Cruises has partnered with BBC Studios to offer guests an exciting opportunity to go behind the scenes of many of its much-loved BBC programmes, such as Strictly Come Dancing and The Sky at Night. This is the first time that BBC Studios has partnered with a cruise line to offer exclusive access to a range of its stars and experts, such as Dr Michael Mosley, Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, Ella Al-Shamahi and Strictly Come Dancing professionals Luba Mushtuk and Vito Coppola, as well as the visual effects team behind iconic shows like Doctor Who and Silent Witness. They will be on board selected Saga Cruises to give insights into the making of their respective TV shows as part of an enhanced entertainment experience. Commenting on the partnership, Richard Curwen, BBC Studios Live Entertainment Executive Producer says, “Everyone at BBC Studios is excited to bring our new live entertainment programme to Saga Cruises. This is the first time people will be able to enjoy a variety of BBC Studios’ shows with their presenters and entertainers, live on a cruise ship. Whether it’s Strictly Come Dancing, Dr Michael Mosley or The Sky at Night, we look forward to taking guests behind the scenes with the magic of BBC Studios!” Nigel Banks, Saga Cruises CEO adds, “I am delighted that we are welcoming celebrity guests and experts from BBC Studios onto our ships. This is the first time BBC Studios have partnered with a cruise line and a variety of experts, bringing these unique experiences from the television screen to our beautiful boutique ships! We are both iconic British brands, trusted for many years, and this is a fantastic opportunity to enhance our on-board entertainment offering. We expect these cruises to be popular, so I recommend booking soon.” Saga and BBC Studios partnership programme will initially run between July 2024 and March 2025 across seven specially selected all-inclusive no-fly itineraries aboard sister ships, Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery. Strictly Come Dancing is one of the most popular entertainment shows on British television. On board, some of the favourite Strictly professionals, including Luba Mushtuk and Vito Coppola, will give an insight into their careers, firstly as competitive dancers and then on to the Strictly ballroom, as well as what it’s like to be part of one of the biggest shows on television. They will also deliver show-stopping routines in two glittering performances in the ship’s Playhouse theatre. The cruises featuring Luba and Vito both set off from Portsmouth and include the 22 nightCroatia and the Treasures of the Adriatic, which departs on 28th February 2025 and the 18 nightWestern Mediterranean and Italian Rivieracruise, departing on 26th March 2025. The Sky at Night has been a staple of British television for over 65 years, bringing the world of astronomy and space to the small screen. Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock DBE is a space scientist and science educator and has presented The Sky at Night since 2013. Maggie continues to undertake ground-breaking space science research and works to inspire new generations of astronauts, scientists and engineers. Over two appearances on board, Maggie will give an insight into her stellar career, the world of science and space exploration, and how she takes the most complex astrophysics and makes it accessible for the non-scientist. She will also talk about the making of The Sky at Night, its long history, and how it continues to engage the audience with astronomy and space science. Dame Maggie will be on board the 49-night all inclusiveCaribbean and Central America Discoverycruise, departing Portsmouth on 6th January 2025. Dame Maggie will also be aboard the 15 nightCasablanca and the Canariesitinerary, departing Portsmouth on 13th February 2025 and priced from £4,649 per person. Explorer, evolutionary biologist, paleoanthropologist and writer, Ella Al-Shamahi has presented a range of television programmes for BBC Studios. This includes ‘Neanderthals – Meet Your Ancestors’, ‘Horizon – Body Clock’, and the new flagship science programme ‘Human’ which transmits on BBC Two in 2025. ‘Human’ tells the story of how humans became the dominant form of life of Earth. On board, Ella will give an insight into her career and work, from researching Neanderthal history to exploring for fossils in danger zones around the world. She will also give an insight into the making of the new BBC Studios produced series ‘Human’ and the ground-breaking techniques and research involved to bring the story of mankind to the screen. Ella will be on board the 19 night Arctic Summer: Iceland and the North Cape cruise, departing Dover on 17th July 2024 and priced from £3,999 per person (was £4,399pp), as well as the 29 nightContrasts of Canada and the USAcruise, departing Portsmouth on 21st September 2024 and priced from £6,969 (was £7,669pp). ‘Just One Thing’ is a chart-topping podcast produced by BBC Studios for BBC Sounds, in which journalist, producer and presenter, Michael Mosley shares ‘one thing’ to improve health and wellbeing. On board, Michael and his Executive Producer, Zoe Heron, will take guests into the world of making the hit podcast, the scientific rigour that goes into establishing the facts, how they find and choose the one thing and distil this down into a 15-minute podcast. Michael will also give an insight into his wide and varied career. Guests can join Michael on Saga’s 30 nightTropical Shores of the Caribbeancruise, departing Portsmouth on 5th November 2024 and priced from £6,699 per person (was £7,099pp). Millennium FX is a multi award-winning visual effects company which has worked extensively on BBC Studios productions, as well as major Hollywood films, West End-theatre productions and international tours. From Doctor Who to Silent Witness, Gladiator to Saving Private Ryan, Phantom of the Opera to Stranger Things, The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra to Iron Maiden, Millennium FX has created prosthetics, costumes, animatronics and props, bringing the fantastical to the stage and screen. On board, Millennium FX Director, Kate Walshe, will tell guests all about the fascinating world of visual effects, and how they are created on BBC Studios produced programmes. In one of her two talks, Kate will also demonstrate how to turn an ordinary man into a gruesome vampire! Join the Millennium FX team on board a 49-night all inclusiveCaribbean and Central America Discovery,departing Portsmouth on 6th January 2025. Saga’s boutique ocean cruises are all-inclusive with no hidden costs on-board and guests also have the benefit of the a complimentary return chauffeur service between home and Dover or Portsmouth of up to 300 miles each way on 2024 cruises and nationwide on 2025 cruises. Saga cruises come with all dining and house drinks including a selection of cocktails, draft beers and lagers, wines, spirits, mixers and soft drinks, including premium label spirits available at no additional cost. Wi-Fi, gratuities, fitness facilities, 24-hour room service, sightseeing tours in selected ports, entertainment (from lectures to recitals to shows), porterage of luggage, shuttle buses to nearest town centres and travel insurance are also included. All prices based on two people sharing and are subject to availability and change and include all relevant special offer savings. 07 June, 2024 -
Carnival Legend returns to service ahead of UK departures
Carnival Legend returns to service ahead of UK departures
Carnival Cruise Line ship Carnival Legend has left Barcelona for the start of its summer European season, following the completion of a month-long refurbishment. Starting from this month (June), the 2124-guest ship will operate six UK departures from Dover, with nine and 12-day itineraries on offer. Carnival Legend now features the Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, which honours military veterans and active-duty service members, as well as the Dreams Photography Studio and Chef’s Table dining experience. In addition, the ship’s steakhouse has been refreshed and renamed Fahrenheit 555, while the casino has been expanded and the spa rebranded as Cloud 9 Spa and Fitness Centre. For younger cruises, the Circle C and Camp Ocean spaces have been updated and a new mini golf course installed on the top deck. Iain Baillie, vice-president international sales at Carnival, said: “We cannot wait to welcome guests onboard the refreshed Carnival Legend. Our UK departures feature a host of wonderful ports of call which, when coupled with the convenience of sailing from Dover, make for the perfect summer getaway.” A nine-day voyage from Dover, departing August 18, calls at La Coruña, Porto, Lisbon, Cádiz (Seville), Malaga, Cartagena and Civitavecchia (Rome). Prices start from £890pp. Carnival Legend will also sail from Civitavecchia (Rome) and in October will operate a transatlantic Carnival Journeys cruise to its new homeport of Tampa, Florida. For more information go toGoCCL.co.uk. 04 June, 2024 -
Cunard celebrates historic Queen Anne naming ceremony
Cunard celebrates historic Queen Anne naming ceremony
Cunard’s newest ship Queen Anne was centre stage as the luxury cruise line hosted a spectacular naming ceremony* in its spiritual home of Liverpool. Tens of thousands of people gathered at Liverpool Waterfront to witness the historic celebrations, which featured performances from iconic Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts and more. On-stage proceeding were hosted by Busted musician Matt Willis and TV presenter Emma Willis. Liverpool was the birthplace of Cunard’s first transatlantic crossing, 184 years ago in May 1840, and was the company’s headquarters for 128 years. The love and affection the people of Liverpool still have for all things Cunard is clear – never more so than when a Cunard ship arrives on the Mersey. Queen Anne made her maiden call to Cunard’s spiritual home at around 7am yesterday, ahead of an impressive naming ceremony that marked a new chapter in the luxury cruise line’s 184-year history.The ceremony opened with a one-of-a-kind performance by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, which captivated the audience's senses through powerful yet delicate melodies. The City of Liverpool was then named as Queen Anne’s Godparent in recognition of the long-lasting bond with its spiritual home. Five Liverpool icons** were invited on stage to represent the city, including former Spice Girl and author Melanie C, broadcaster and community leader Ngunan Adamu, local restaurant entrepreneur Natalie Haywood, Liverpool music and cultural legend Jayne Casey, and British Olympian heptathlon athlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson. These distinguished women, who embody the heart and future of Liverpool, just as Queen Anne does for Cunard, were chosen because of their significant contributions to culture at a local, national or international level. The iconic smashing of the Champagne bottle against the ship signified this historic moment and wished the vessel and its crew good fortune on its future voyages.To top the bill, operatic superstar Andrea Bocelli ended the event with an unforgettable performance of two of his iconic songs, ‘It’s Time to Say Goodbye’. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “I would like to thank our Liverpool Icons, these amazing women, for representing the city and taking part in this historic ceremony and to all of the people of Liverpool for once again opening your hearts and welcoming Cunard and Queen Anne.” 04 June, 2024 -
Cunard names City of Liverpool as Godparent of Queen Anne with five Liverpudlian icons
Cunard names City of Liverpool as Godparent of Queen Anne with five Liverpudlian icons
Cunard is excited to announce the City of Liverpool as Godparent of its newest ship Queen Anne in recognition of the long-lasting bond with its spiritual home. Liverpool was the birthplace of Cunard with its first transatlantic crossing departing 184 years ago in July 1840, and it was the company’s headquarters for 128 years. The love and affection the people of Liverpool still have for all things Cunard is clear – never more so than when a Cunard ship arrives on the Mersey. This is highlighted by two of the largest crowds ever to gather for a maritime event – a million people for QE2 in 1990 and over a million for the Three Queens Salute in 2015. This was also the year when Cunard was awarded the honour of The Freedom of the City. On behalf of the City of Liverpool, the luxury cruise line has selected five distinguished Liverpool icons* to represent the city and officially name Queen Anne. These distinguished women, who embody the heart and future of Liverpool, just as Queen Anne does for Cunard, have been chosen for their significant contributions to culture at a local, national or international level. All proud Liverpudlians, they are Spice Girl and author Melanie C, broadcaster and community leader Ngunan Adamu, local restaurant entrepreneur Natalie Haywood, Liverpool music and cultural legend Jayne Casey, and British Olympian heptathlon athlete Katarina Johnson-Thomson. Queen Anne naming ceremony Tens of thousands of people are expected to gather along the waterfront to witness the time-honoured naming ceremony, a tradition believed to bestow good fortune upon the new vessel.The proceedings will open with a performance by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra before event hosts, Matt and Emma Willis, take to the stage to oversee the ceremony. The icons will join Cunard President, Katie McAlister, and Captain Inger Klein Thorhauge for a special naming ceremony, where they will officially introduce the most beautiful ship at sea to its spiritual home, continuing the seafaring tradition by smashing a bottle of champagne against the 249th ship to carry the Cunard name. Formal proceedings will conclude with a stunning performance by operatic superstar Andrea Bocelli, including his iconic song 'Time to Say Goodbye'. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Liverpool is the spiritual home of Cunard, and we are therefore delighted and feel it very fitting that the City of Liverpool is the godparent to Queen Anne. It’s testament to the enduring relationship that connects Cunard and the city in which it was founded to the present day when we officially named our new ship on the Liverpool Waterfront, in front of the Cunard Building. We are equally delighted to have our five chosen Liverpool icons represent the city in the ceremony. All remarkable in their own right, they have inspired generations and collectively capture the essence of the city that has shaped global culture.” Andrew Lewis, Chief Executive of Liverpool City Council said: “It’s an incredible honour for the City of Liverpool to be chosen as the Godparent of Queen Anne. This city shares a treasured bond with Cunard dating back to 1839 when we were the original home of the world-famous line. The naming ceremony was a magnificent showpiece that once again cast Liverpool into the limelight, and we are so proud to be forever entwined with Queen Anne as she sails the world. We will always cherish our long-standing relationship with Cunard.” 04 June, 2024 -
Cunards newest ship Queen Anne makes historic maiden call to Liverpool ahead of Naming Ceremony
Cunards newest ship Queen Anne makes historic maiden call to Liverpool ahead of Naming Ceremony
Cunard’s unique bond with Liverpool has been renewed today (3 June) as its newest ship Queen Anne arrived in the luxury cruise line’s spiritual home. Her arrival attracted large numbers of spectators to various vantage points along the banks of the River Mersey as the 249th ship to fly under the Cunard flag made her maiden call to Liverpool. Liverpool was the birthplace of Cunard with its first transatlantic crossing departing 184 years ago in July 1840, and it was the company’s headquarters for 128 years. The love and affection the people of Liverpool still have for all things Cunard is clear – never more so than when a Cunard ship arrives on the Mersey. This is highlighted by the two of the largest crowds ever to gather for a maritime event – a million people for QE2 in 1990 and over a million for the Three Queens Salute in 2015. This was also the year when Cunard was awarded the honour of The Freedom of the City. Later today, tens of thousands of people are expected to gather along the waterfront to witness the time-honoured naming ceremony, a tradition believed to bestow good fortune upon the new vessel. The ceremony will officially introduce the most beautiful ship at sea to its spiritual home, continuing the seafaring tradition by smashing a bottle of champagne against Queen Anne. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Queen Anne’s British Isles Festival voyage is celebrating the very best of Great Britain and Ireland and we are delighted that our newest ship has now arrived in Liverpool. This wonderful city is the spiritual home of Cunard, and we share such an incredible bond, so what better place to officially name our new ship than somewhere that holds so many special memories. We are all so excited for the city to see Queen Anne up close during what promises to be a very special celebration.” 03 June, 2024 -
Last Month in Cruise May 2024 - Written By Sara Macefield
Last Month in Cruise May 2024 - Written By Sara Macefield
It was the month a new royal joined the cruising fold with the arrival of Cunard’s 249thship Queen Anne, and cruise lines continued to push the boundaries of where they sail to with new port-rich world cruises and more immersive ways to get under the skin of destinations. Making an entrance As the summer cruise season kicks off, the initial wave of homeporting ships arrived in Southampton withCelebrity Cruises’Celebrity Apexdebuting as the first Edge-class ship to be based at the Hampshire port. This came as sister shipCelebrity EdgeandSilversea’sSilver Novaembarked on their first Alaska seasons. The six-star line also took delivery of next Nova-class shipSilver Ray,which embarks on its maiden voyage from Lisbon on June 15.Oceania’sMarinareturned to service with three more dining options following a revamp, while it was announced that newest additionAllurawill arrive a week early next year, departing Trieste on July 18, 2025. Taking the wraps off new world-beaters Silverseahas unveiled its most destination-packed world cruise ever for 2027 with 80 stops in 35 countries, including 20 new calls. The 149-day voyage onSilver Dawnwill cross the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans after departing Los Angeles in January 2027, before finishing in Copenhagen in June.Princess Cruisesalso launched its most ambitious global voyage yet with a 114-night cruise onCoral Princessvisiting 52 ports in 28 countries, departing Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles in January 2026. Asia cruises are riding high withPrincessextending its 2025/26 Japan & South East season, whileNorwegian Cruise Lineis adding more than 30 new itineraries across Asia Pacific and Australasia withNorwegian Sky, Sun and Spiritdebuting in the region – making itsNCL’slargest deployment there in its history. Digging deeper into destinations Azamarais getting even more port immersive with this summer’s Extended Destination Daysoffering 10 or more hours in port in the likes of Seville, Livorno, Nice and Edinburgh, whileRegent Seven Seas Cruisesis expanding its Immersive Overnights collection with a new Sunset Over Tuscany voyage onSeven Seas Marinerfeaturing overnight calls at every port, plus 24 new shore excursions and 12 debut land programmes. Calling all petrol-heads:Scenichas added a Monaco Grand Prix sailing along the French and Italian rivieras, departing May 2025. Let’s talk about rivers Christmas might be the last thing on your mind, but that hasn’t stoppedUniworldfrom launching its first festive brochure for 2024 and 2025 featuring the best yuletide markets and a debut Christmas Markets cruise on newestSuper Ship Victoria.VIVA Cruisesis promising winter magic with Seine sailings onViva Gloriain November and December this year, whileEmeraldis offering city stays in the likes of Seville, Prague and Budapest that can be tagged on to sailings. I will survive . . . . . .fans of the Gloria Gaynor classic will be able to belt it out with the lady herself at an exclusive concert forCrystalguests aboardCrystal Serenitythis autumn on its Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale voyage from October 26. 31 May, 2024 -
AmaWaterways Announces Two New River Ships for 2026
AmaWaterways Announces Two New River Ships for 2026
As travellers seek authentic experiences in storybook destinations, AmaWaterways continues to meet their expectations with new river ships and itineraries tailored to their needs. The line is proud to announce two new river ships launching in 2026: AmaKaia sailing the Mekong River and AmaSofia on the Rhine and Danube Rivers. With an expected launch date of May 24, 2026, AmaSofia will be the award-winning cruise line’s 24th ship to sail on Europe’s most popular rivers. AmaSofia’s inaugural 14-night itinerary, aptly named Magnificent Europe, follows the route of emperors, kings and queens as it journeys between Amsterdam and Budapest. Guests will sail on three rivers through four countries on an immersive exploration of local culture, history, foods and traditions. Highlights include guided bike rides through scenic vineyards and small towns, visits to a pretzel bakery, tours of numerous castles and palaces, culinary tours, and deep dives into many of the region’s most historic cities. The custom-designed luxury AmaSofia will have 31 departures in 2026, featuring multiple itineraries on the Danube, such as Melodies of the Danube, Romantic Danube, and the very popular Christmas Markets on the Danube. AmaKaia is set to join AmaDara on the Mekong and embark on its first seven-night itinerary on August 3, 2026. Guests will explore the ancient cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia while enjoying regional delicacies, a wide range of daily included excursions, local onboard entertainment, and the luxury amenities AmaWaterways is known for. Exploration opportunities include traditional “xe-loi” (trishaw) rides, visits to local workshops and monasteries, a Buddhist Blessing Ceremony, and learning about the region’s histories from those who taught it and, in many cases, lived it. The two seven-night itineraries, Charms of the Mekong and Riches of the Mekong both offer guests a unique blend of well-known sites and off-the-beaten-path experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. AmaKaia will be doing 22 sailings in 2026 and upwards of 38 in 2027. Land extensions are available in several cities including Siem Reap, home of the world’s largest religious structure, Angkor Wat. Cruising with AmaWaterways includes fine dining in multiple venues, including The Chef's Table speciality restaurant, unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks, a daily variety of small group excursions, including hiking, biking and special interest tours, high-quality Wi-Fi, a Wellness Programme with a variety of host-led fitness classes, airport transfers, and much more. 31 May, 2024 -
Oceania Cruises Marina Returns to Service After Extensive Refurbishment
Oceania Cruises Marina Returns to Service After Extensive Refurbishment
Oceania Cruises has welcomed its 1,250-guest ship, Marina, back into service after undergoing an all-encompassing refurbishment, which includes the addition of three new dining options. Guests aboard Marina can now enjoy the culinary delights of Aquamar Kitchen, the new wellness-focused dining venue, which debuted to great acclaim on Vista last year; a poolside ice cream parlour serving milkshakes and smoothies; and a new al fresco Pizzeria offering sumptuous Italian dishes. Marina is the most recent of Oceania Cruises’ current fleet to be refurbished, which means that the line boasts eight new, or better-than-new, ships. Its eighth ship, Allura, is set to set sail in July 2025. “Marina is the first – the original – ship designed by foodies, built by foodies, for foodies,” said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. “We are renowned for serving The Finest Cuisine at Sea, and this is not just a tagline, it is a mantra which we have built the business around. Food is the foundation of what we do on board each of our ships, and globally, in the destinations we visit. “The addition of these three relaxed, yet refined, eateries to Marina is the perfect way to spotlight that The Finest Cuisine at Sea does not always mean a white linen tablecloth and starched napkins at one of our award-winning specialty restaurants. It’s also a perfectly prepared pizza, accompanied by a chilled glass of white wine enjoyed on deck, as you set sail with a warm breeze around your shoulders; or a decadent poolside ice cream or flavorful smoothie as you relax on your sun lounger.” Oceania Cruises’ newly appointed Executive Culinary Directors, Chefs Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale, and their talented team are taking a fresh look at menus across all venues on all ships. Chef Alex commented: “The introduction of these three wonderful culinary venues on board Marina is just the start of an exciting new taste journey for Oceania Cruises. Of course, there is an incredible amount of work going on to prepare for the arrival of Allura next summer, but we have so much going on aboard all our beautiful ships. Eric and I are looking at every menu and every dish we serve, as you’ll see with the return of Marina. “The ethos behind The Finest Cuisine at Sea is at the heart of everything we do; it all starts with the best ingredients, the best team and a precise plan as to how each mouthful should taste – regardless of whether it’s a lunchtime burger at Waves Grill or an extravagant souffle in The Grand Dining Room. We have so much to talk about, I cannot wait to share more in the coming weeks and months.” 29 May, 2024 -
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines welcomes more than 200 agents aboard Borealis
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines welcomes more than 200 agents aboard Borealis
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has welcomed more than 200 travel agents on boardBorealisin Southampton as part of the CLIA Conference. The CLIA event is the largest agent cruise conference in the UK and provided an opportunity for travel agents and media guests to experience Fred. Olsen's hospitality and onboard offerings first-hand. Saturday’s event began with an engaging presentation from Geoff Ridgeon, Head of Sales at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, followed by a personalised ship tour with interactive elements such as a silent disco, food tastings in speciality restaurant Colours and Tastes and live music. Agents also enjoyed a drinks reception and delicious lunch, all designed to showcase the distinctive personal touch that Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is renowned for. While on board, agents were encouraged to share their experiences on Instagram using the hashtag #CLIAwithFred, resulting in more than 270 posts – 28% more than the number of attending agents. Additional content was shared on stories and in the trade Facebook group, with a live dashboard displaying the posts throughout the day. Geoff Ridgeon, Head of Sales at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: "We’re incredibly proud of our relationships with our agent partners, and it’s always a pleasure to welcome them on board our smaller-sized ships and show them what we do differently. The event was a real success, and we’re so pleased that so many agents were able to really get a taste of what Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is all about. I’d like to extend a big thank you to everyone who joined us for the day, as well as thank everyone involved in making this event a wonderful experience, from our teams ashore and the on board team onBorealis.” In addition to the ship tours, the CLIA conference featured a variety of sessions and a trade fair, offering further engagement opportunities for agents to learn about Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and the wider cruise industry. 29 May, 2024 -
The Suite Life Celebrity Cruises elevates The Retreat experience
The Suite Life Celebrity Cruises elevates The Retreat experience
Celebrity Cruises takes the suite life to new heights with new premium and personalised enhancements for The Retreat, providing the most elevated experience at sea. Offering more perks and amenities than ever before, The Retreat isn’t just a suite. It’s the most elevated experience at sea. “At The Retreat, the world really does revolve around our guests,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. “We collected extensive feedback from past guests, loyalty members and our trade partners to inform how The Retreat experiences are being reimagined to continue exceeding vacation expectations by delivering on the amenities and experiences Celebrity Cruises guests value most.” Ensuring guests don't have to lift a finger while on vacation, all suites at The Retreat come with a dedicated butler, who is now just a message away with Butler Chat, allowing for faster and easier one-on-one communication from anywhere on board or onshore. A dedicated shore excursions expert, The Retreat Destination Experience Specialist, is now available for guests of The Retreat to make the most of their time on shore, from planning destination-related activities, to ensuring smooth transfers when discovering Celebrity’s most sought-after ports of call. Additionally, guests can relax prior to excursions from the comfort of The Retreat Lounge and will enjoy suite-to-car butler escorts for Private Journeysexcursions. Culinary enhancements have been added to the offerings at Luminae, the exclusive suites-only restaurant, including new Daniel Boulud Signature dishes and a new rotating dinner and dessert menu. In-suite, guests can enjoy personalised daily delights, selected from the in-suite dining menu, as well as a complimentary stocked minibar. Plus, guests staying in Royal Suites and above will always look their best thanks to complimentary laundry service including unlimited pressing. In addition to the new offerings, guests of The Retreat will enjoy: Breakfast, lunch and dinner from the comfort of their suite, selected from the in-suite dining menu, available daily. Award-Winning Wine Portfolio of red, white, and bubbly wines representing vineyards from around the world served complimentary in The Retreat Lounge, Luminae and in-suite. Express Priority Luggage Drop Off and Delivery on embarkation. Guests staying in Royal Suites and above will also have access to: Complimentary Extend Your Stay providing the flexibility of staying onboard longer on disembarkation day in selected ports**. Guests can conveniently store their luggage, access public areas, use Wi-Fi and drink packages, enjoy lunch, and relax before their departure. Complimentary SEA Thermal Suite access on Edge Series ships and the Persian Garden on Millennium and Solstice Series ships. Complimentary Unlimited Specialty Dining, including lunch and dinner. Ability to customise their in-suite minibar experience before sailing. Two complimentary bottles of wine or spirits throughout their sailing. Exclusive complimentary sleepwear. Boasting expansive views and stunning designs, The Retreat offers guests the chance to unwind in their individual suite, on an exclusive sundeck or in a private lounge, all designed to make them feel like they have the ship to themselves. This exclusive experience begins even prior to guests stepping foot on board with the pre-cruise concierge, priority check-in and departure, and priority port tendering at available ports of call. For more information and to book a sailing with Celebrity Cruises, please visitwww.celebritycruises.com, contact a trusted travel advisor, or call Celebrity Cruises at 1-888-751-7804. *The Retreat Sundeck available on Edge Series and Revolutionized ships. Currently not available on Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Constellation, or, Celebrity Infinity. **Extend Your Stay is available in Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Venice (Ravenna), Italy; Barcelona, Spain; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; and; Southampton, England. 27 May, 2024