Podcasts about carnival splendor

In episode 199 of The Big Cruise Podcast Baz Catches up with Chris and his thoughts on Carnival Splendor before Baz shares his recent experience in the Kimberley on board Ponant's Le Laperouse. Note: Sponsored Episode: Baz travelled as a guest of Ponant, however Ponant have not paid for, or approved this episode. Listener Comments: From: Ella Laura: Fantastic job on the Carnival Splendor Carnival. To hear an historian like Chris speak to the carnival experience was really fascinating and it makes this old P&O. fanatic feel a little brighter about the future.Support the show: Listen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGX Sustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7Rdh Follow Chris and his latest videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficial Join the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Co-host: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg Chris's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sponsored: It's the moment we've been waiting for! Chris has just been aboard the NEWLY REFURBISHED Carnival Splendor cruise ship! As one of P&O Australia's biggest fans, maritime historian and lecturer Chris Frame had never been aboard Carnival.. until now! With Carnival taking over P&O's ships in a few months, Carnival Cruise Line brought Chris Frame to Sydney to tour the ship for The Big Cruise Podcast. More Cruise Content from Chris:YouTube Channel - Cruise News & Ship History with Chris Frame: https://youtube.com/chrisframeofficial/Cruise Blog: https://www.chrisframe.com.au/New Channel Membership: / @chrisframeofficial Support the Podcast:Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/thebigcruisepod Note: Carnival sponsored this episode. They did NOT review or edit the commentary / audio before it was published. Carnival Splendor Aussie Perks:Australian Dollar AUD$ used aboard Splendor in Australia,No compulsory gratuities / tipping in Australia,Complementary soft serve and Vitality flavoured juices in the Lido. Carnival Splendor Stats: Length: 290 mLaunched: 3 August 2007Construction started: 2007Capacity: 3,012 passengersCrew: 1,150Decks: 13Cost to build: US$697 million Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, passionate cruisers! I am delighted to welcome this week on The Joy of Cruising Podcast, Venus Anderson, I was browsing Melanin At Sea, one of the most influential Facebook affinity groups comprised of 96,000-member, created by friends of the show and global cruise personalities A Rich and Jazzy Life. Venus happens to be the administrator of Melanin At Sea (and sister and sister-n-law of the founders, Richand Jazzy.) Following the holidays Venus posted: “We recently returned from our 19-day trip to Sydney, Australia. After planning this trip for about 16 months, we braved the 22 hours in flights from JFK to SYD with ease. Thankfully no hiccups or delays. We had the opportunity to stay in Honolulu, Hawaii for 36 hours and in Sydney for one whole day before boarding the cruise. We took an 8-day cruise on the Carnival Splendor to Noumea and Lifou, New Caledonia.” This sounded like a dream trip to me; I have interviewed well over 100 passionate cruises and many, even seasoned world travelers still have Australia on their bucket list. As I am wont to do, I reached out to Venus and invited her to the podcast so that I and the listeners could experience hertrip vicariously through Venus. I am so glad she agreed to join The Joy of Cruising Podcast. Venus' adventure took place from mid-December 2023, through Christmas and New Year's. Accompanied by her daughter, 13-year-old Autumn, and her cousin, her cousin's husband and their son, the group flew from JFK in New York to Honolulu, Hawaii, where they got to spend a couple of days. Afterwards, they flew to Sydney, Australia and boarded the Carnival Splendor December 18 for an 8-day Christmas cruise with 2 stops—Lifou, and Noumea, 2 French territories in New Caledonia.  After the cruise they spent 6 additional nights in Sydney and rung in the New Year there. Before flying to New York. Surprise, Venus plans to go back again someday! I asked Venus what inspired her to put together such a grand trip. Many veteran world travelers still have Sydney, Australia on their bucket list. One influence on her to see the world was a quite poignant interaction and left a lasting impression on Venus.Support the show

Introducing epsiode 136In Episode 136, Chris shares the 90 Years of P&O Australia's leisure cruises. We answer some listener questions and share the latest news from, Viking, Swan Hellenic, Coral Expeditions, Carnival, Saga, Celebrity, Windstar & P&O UK. Plus who wins this weeks Fact or Fiction.  Support the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhRun for a Reason – This year Chris will Run for a Reason, raising money for the Type 1 Diabetes Family Centre. The Family Centre is a unique WA based home away from home for people with type 1. The team work alongside people living with type 1 diabetes, to support them to live a full and rewarding life. Donations can be made here: https://lnkd.in/gjs7jXXjListener QuestionsListener Question from KerryHi Baz and Chris, new cruiser here. Last year my husband started working for Cunard and so we are really new to cruising but want to make the most of his staff discount. We have a cruise to the Norwegian Fjords booked for July 2023, 7 nights out of Southampton on Queen Victoria. So far the only excursion we've booked is a visit to Briksdal Glacier. We have done lots of research and feel happy with this as the only pre-booked cruise line excursion. The other port days we are happy to just wander nearby to the ship and see where we end up. My question is, do you feel that you can get the best out of port days just going with the flow or do you prefer pre-booked and organised trips? Sitting on a coach with 60 other people looking at passing views is my idea of hell, I'd much rather put on some hiking boots and walk to a waterfall. Love the show, especially Chris's Cunard insights, hope to catch an enrichment talk one day!Baz suggests look at the independant shore excursions operators such as Venture Ashore: https://www.ventureashore.com/Listener Question from KeithWhile cruising recently on Holland America's Nieuw Statendam, I noticed an interesting shape on the rear of the hull below deck 1.  What is the purpose of the extended structure at the rear of the ship beneath the mooring lines?  When viewed from the rear or side, most of the “extension” is above the water.BazCruise NewsViking Opens up 2025 River Cruises for sale Due to overwhelming demand, Viking's 2025 river voyages are now open for sale.  This response comes as Viking celebrated record-breaking sales in January and earning top honours in the Cruise Critic 2023 Cruisers' Choice Awards across river, ocean and expedition categories.It is the first time Viking has three river seasons open for sale at once, providing guests with more choice when selecting their next unforgettable journey.Viking started the year with record-breaking sales in January and this demand has only continued throughout the following months. A large percentage of those bookings have come through its trusted travel agent network, with agents seeing exceptional volume of bookings.Viking is also offering guests additional savings of $200 per couple for new 2024/2025 river bookings made by 30 April 2023.River highlights include:15-day Grand European Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest or v.v.23-day European Sojourn from Amsterdam to Bucharest or v.v.8-day Paris & the Heart of Normandy from Paris to10-day Portugal's River of Gold from Lisbon to Porto12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids from Cairo to Cairo15-day Magnificent Mekong from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh CitySwan Hellenic announces delivery of third state-of-the-art expedition ship: SH DianaOn Tuesday the 4th of April: Swan Hellenic announced that it had taken delivery of SH Diana from the Helsinki Shipyard on Friday the 31st of March, and that its newest and largest ship is en-route in the Baltic and will pass the through the Kiel Canal tomorrow night.SH Diana is now sailing to Palermo for her inaugural cultural expedition cruise, the ten-night Mysteries of Carthage and the Moors, which will take her guests to explore some of the most fascinating locations in North Africa before crossing the “Pillars of Hercules” to Seville and Lisbon. Departing Lisbon on the 25th of April, the nine-night Historic Ports of the Western Seaboard will see her hugging the coasts of Spain, France, Belgium and the Netherlands to reach Amsterdam.Here on the 4th of May, a Christening Ceremony with US luxury travel industry icon Valerie Wilson as godmother will take place naming SH Diana in the traditional manner with a modern twist, sending her on her way in style to cruises of the Scandinavian fjords and a full Arctic season.Coral Expeditions expands season in the Spice IslandsCoral Expeditions, Australia's pioneering cruise line, has today announced the launch of four new 18-night extended voyages to Raja Ampat and Spice Islands of West Papua in early 2025. The release coincides with the current expeditions in March and April on Coral Adventurer which are both sold out due to popular demand. These voyages are the first back to the region since 2020.The new expeditions are scheduled for the peak summer season from January to March in 2025 and will be hosted on Coral Geographer. Each trip will have fewer than 120 guests and be accompanied by expert guides in keeping with our true expedition ethos.New voyage dates:Darwin to Sorong > 18 nights departing 24 January 2025Sorong to Darwin > 18 nights departing 11 February 2025Darwin to Sorong > 18 nights departing 2 March 2025Sorong to Darwin > 18 nights departing 20 March 2025As is the case with most Coral Expeditions voyages in remote international regions, the company will charter a jet aircraft for guest transfers from Darwin to Sorong and return.Key highlights of the new itineraries include:Three days in spectacular Raja Ampat, the famed archipelago of the “four Kings”Swimming with the gentle and majestic giant whale sharks at Cenderawasih BayDiscovering Wayag's ‘gumdrop' islands and be rewarded by the view from Pindito PeakEnjoying a welcome to Banda Neira by the traditional Kora Kora canoesExploring the ancient spice kingdoms fought over by English, Dutch, and Portuguese explorersLearning the customs & cultures of West Papua and Indonesia, and experiencing local culture, including traditional dance, handicrafts and local cuisineQueensland Children's Hospital patients enjoy Dr. Seuss-themed day onboard Carnival LuminosaBringing some Dr. Seuss-themed fun to the Sunshine State, Carnival Cruise Line, along with the Children's Hospital Foundation, today hosted Queensland Children's Hospital patients and families onboard Carnival Luminosa for a special Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast.With The Cat in the Hat, Thing 1 and Thing 2, all were invited onboard the ship red and blue. Green Eggs were enjoyed, and the kids had a ball, but their mums and their dads had the best time of all. There was singing and dancing, by crew and by waiters, but the kids were by far the best fun creators.Carnival Cruise Line has been a proud supporter of the Children's Hospital Foundation in Queensland since 2019 and has hosted its recurring Conga for Kids event onboard Carnival Luminosa since the ship began sailing from Queensland in November 2022.Raising much-needed funds for the Foundation, Carnival Cruise Line VP, Kara Glamore also presented Children's Hospital Foundation CEO, Lyndsey Rice with a giant cheque for $34,245. The money raised is the cumulative efforts of the brand's ‘Conga for Kids' events during Carnival's first-ever Brisbane season. And with two events to go, this number is only expected to increase. This figure adds to a previous donation of $10,000 following the 2022 Nine Telethon in support of the foundation, bringing the total funds raised to just under 45 thousand dollars.Deck' the halls! Carnival Cruise Line announces ‘Grinchmas in July' cruisesRoll out the mince pies! Carnival Cruise Line announces it will offer five ‘Grinchmas in July' themed sailings onboard Carnival Splendor to its existing roster of fun-filled cruises.As part of Carnival's ongoing Dr. Seuss partnership, the Grinch-themed cruises will bring the very best of ‘Christmas in July' traditions to sea, allowing Australian guests to experience the fun of a wintry ‘Christmas'. The new additions come as part of Carnival's ‘Seuss at Sea' offerings, including its Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, Seussapalooza and Seuss Storytime.Grinchmas in July will see Carnival Splendor transformed into a magical winter wonderland, its giant Christmas tree adorned with glittering lights and baubles galore; there'll even be winter ‘snow' on board. Guests will be able to immerse themselves in the full holiday spirit by enjoying a delicious array of festive food and beverage offerings, including Christmas-themed beverages and specialty dining options, ensuring a very merry time. The festive fun comes on top of the full array of 45+ activities guests have come to know and love on a Carnival Cruise.The Grinch himself will join the festivities with special appearances and a screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Dive-In Movies. The fun doesn't stop there, as guests can party like a Who from Who-ville, to a ‘Jingle Bell Jam' soundtrack, as well as Christmas carolling, festive games, trivia and arts and crafts. There's even an ugly Christmas sweater night and festive outfit competition for the fashionistas of the family.Carnival's Grinchmas in July sailings depart from Sydney starting from 30th June 2023. The full list of sailings include:Friday 30th June: 9-night sailing to the South Pacific visiting three amazing ports including Noumea, Mystery Island and LifouSunday 9th July: 4-night sailing including a trip to the picturesque Moreton Island, one of Australia's best kept secretsThursday 13th July: 3-night Weekend Sampler where guests can soak in the very best of Sydney's famous landmarks whilst getting a taste of the fun on boardSunday 16th July: 12-night South Pacific tour with just under two weeks sailing around the stunning South Pacific. Enjoy the sunshine in Noumea, whilst stopping off at other stunning locations such as Mystery Island and LifouFriday 28th July: 3-night Weekend SamplerSaga launches full range of 2024 ocean cruisesSaga has officially launched its full range of 2024 ocean cruises with 48 all-inclusive itineraries now available.New for 2024, Saga has revamped its UK travel package and the included return chauffeur service has now been extended to 300 miles from the departure port (previously it was 250 miles). Those guests who live further afield and choose to join the cruise via a domestic flight to London or Southampton will also receive a chauffeur service from home to their local airport. They will then be picked up from their flight and driven to the ship, making the whole experience easy and stress-free.In addition to the complimentary chauffeur service, Saga's boutique ocean cruises are all-inclusive with no hidden costs on-board either. Saga Cruises come with all dining and house drinks including a selection of cocktails, draft beers and lagers, wines, spirits, mixers and soft drinks. New for 2023 and in response to guest feedback, a selection of premium label spirits are also 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.Celebrity Cruises' Next Edge-Series Ship Brings New Flex Fuel Engine To IndustryWhen Celebrity Cruises introduces the fifth ship in the  revolutionary Edge Series, it will feature the collaborative efforts of its parent company Royal Caribbean Group, technology group Wärtsilä and shipyard Chantiers de L'Atlantique (CdA) to advance the use of alternative fuels for the cruise industry. The ship continues the innovation that debuted with the Edge Series but will also be equipped with a new engine model, along with storage and delivery systems, that will give unmatched fuel flexibility, with the ability to use three types of fuel, including methanol.To allow for the ship's fuel flexibility, Wärtsilä will deliver two converted 8-cylinder Wärtsilä 46F engines to allow them to utilize three fuel sources, including methanol. These changes not only advance carbon-free cruising, but by adding methanol as a fuel option, local emission like sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter are significantly reduced.Formula 1 Races in Abu Dhabi + Monaco Can Be Accessed Via a Cruise Ship So Small & Nimble It Feels Like Your Own Private YachtSmall ship line Windstar Cruises has added a new Formula 1 experience for its guests, this time at the final race of the 2023 season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November. The racing excursion is in addition to Windstar's long-standing themed F1® cruise to the Monaco Grand Prix, with this year's Rome & Prix du Monde of Monaco slated for May 21-28 aboard Windstar's flagship: 342-passenger sailing yacht Wind Surf.Offered by no other cruise line, the Windstar shore excursion to the Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 is available as part of Windstar's first-ever sailings in the Middle East on board the all-suite, 312-passenger Star Legend.During an overnight in Abu Dhabi amidst the inaugural 10-day Sparkling Sands & Cities of the Persian Gulf voyage departing Dubai on November 23, guests will have the option to experience the climactic race of the F1® season on November 25 and 26 with premium grandstand seats for the time trials and the race, transfers to and from Yas Marina Circuit, English-speaking coordinators, and onboard perks like an exclusive cocktail party. Guests will also be joined by F1® Sports Broadcaster Bob Varsha, who will provide insights and expert analysis of the race and drivers.Cruising to the Monaco Grand Prix has its origins in the 1990s as Windstar's first themed cruise and one of the industry's very first themed cruises (long before cat lovers, bikers, rockers, and other hobby groups made them so ubiquitous). Windstar's passengers n the Rome & Prix du Monde of Monaco itinerary, which consistently sells out far in advance, all receive race tickets, specifically Section K seats for the time trials and final. The entire cruise is hosted by a Formula 1® racing expert who provides behind-the-scenes insight, and there is also a themed cocktail reception and dinner on board, plus extras like high definition binoculars, comfy seat cushions, and ear protection.P&O Cruises announces multi-million pound investment in Arcadia and AuroraP&O Cruises has today announced that it will be updating guest areas on its adults only ships, Arcadia and Aurora.The changes, which are due to be completed by May 2023, will include new balcony furniture, new chairs in cabins, as well as new furniture on the ship's open deck areas. On Arcadia, the Neptune Pool will also see considerable investment with new lounge chairs, sofas, tables and armchairs. Arcadia's wider refit will take place in November 2024 and Aurora's is scheduled for April 2025.SH DianaViking Nile CruiseViking EuropeCarnival in QueenslandAnd more...Join the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialListen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u  I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 129In episode 129 of The Big Cruise Podcast, we introduce a new segment “Losing my Shi#”, Baz kicks off with his beef about the cruise industry, Chris brings the Nautical History of Hapag Lloyd, listener questions abound from around the world and of course the latest cruise news, including new ships launching in 2023Image Credit: Europa 2 in Hamburg. Hapag Lloyd. Support the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhListener questionsCarla – congratulations Barry on the award! My question is simple where did the ocean liners go why now all cruise ships?Ann Marie – I'm planning to Visit Hamburg this year with my daughter for ship spotting and photography. Any tips.5-7 May, 2023: 834th With the best views of the harbour front and the maritime events on the river Elbe, enjoy the shows and snacks along the festival promenade.Enjoy the fantastic and festive atmosphere along the Elbe from the trendy HafenCity district to the Museumshafen Oevelgönne, where over 300 vessels from all over the world will visit Hamburg. Visitors can expect magnificent tall ships, spectacular naval vessels, impressive museum ships, unique historic ships, and modern cruise ships. What's more, many ships even welcome guests on board for a visit!But that's not all! A variety of live performances on numerous stages, the colourful supporting programme and the culinary delights in front of the incomparable Port of Hamburg scenery are all integral to the Port Anniversary experience.Everyone can be a sailor for a day at the Port Anniversary. An event for the whole family — explore ships, tie knots or go on a treasure hunt.https://www.hamburg.com/port-anniversary/16795320/activities/Port of Hamburg | Sights in and around the Port of Hamburg (hafen-hamburg.de)Stefan – Chris what do you know about the significance of Happag Lloyd and its history? I believe they have been around for over 100 years but were they big players in the trans Atlantic ocean passage you often talk about?Cruise newsA Celebrity Cruises Family AffairCelebrity Cruises announced today that Greek brothers Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis have been named co-captains of Celebrity Ascent, the company's fourth ship in its industry-transforming Edge Series, debuting December 2023.The accomplished maritime brothers will usher in a new era for the cruise line, taking the helm of the brand's newest relaxed luxury resort at sea, which has been brought to life by a team of modern lifestyle icons including multi-award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE; celebrated American designer Nate Berkus and Michelin starred chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud.“Captain Dimitrios and Captain Tasos are our star-powered siblings, a maritime dream team. They have given so much to the Celebrity family over the years that we are like a second family,” said Lutoff-Perlo. “Seeing their emotional reaction to this appointment and understanding what it means to share this pinnacle of their career together was something I didn't expect and will never forget.Captain Dimitrios has dedicated his entire maritime career, spanning more than three decades, to Celebrity Cruises, having started as an Apprentice Officer onboard Celebrity's very first vessel, the Horizon, in 1990. Today, he reaches the very pinnacle of the industry, being named take-out captain of this trailblazing ship. Born in Piraeus, port of Athens, Greece, Captain Dimitrios graduated from the Merchant Maritime Academy of Syros-Athens at the top of his class, and has held his Master's licence since 2001. He has sailed aboard every different class of ship in Celebrity's fleet, and was also part of the start up teams for Celebrity MillenniumⓇ, Celebrity InfinityⓇ, Celebrity SilhouetteⓇ and Celebrity ApexⓇ, the latter of which he was also the take out Captain.Captain Tasos grew up watching his older brother Dimitrios making a career on cruise ships, and realised he wanted to follow in his footsteps. After also graduating from the Merchant Marine College, he joined Celebrity Cruises in 1998, and over his more than 20-year career with the brand, has been involved in the opening of Celebrity SummitⓇ, Celebrity SolsticeⓇ, Celebrity EquinoxⓇ and Celebrity ReflectionⓇ. Most recently, he has served as captain of Celebrity EdgeⓇ, the very first of Celebrity's award-winning Edge SeriesⓇ, which launched in 2018.The brothers will alternate their time on Celebrity Ascent in a three-months on-and-off rotation.Culinary Queen Karen Martini and Cricket Great Brett Lee to Headline Cunard's Australian Themed Voyages in 2024Cunard announced two exciting new themed voyages for its 2024 Australian homeport season. Celebrity chef Karen Martini will headline the second edition of the hugely successful Great Australian Culinary Voyage, whilst legendary former fast bowler Brett Lee will spearhead the inaugural Voyage of Sporting Greats.The 7-night Great Australian Culinary Voyage and the 7-night Voyage of Sporting Greats will celebrate Australian culture through the lenses of food and sport. Karen and Brett will captivate Queen Elizabeth's 2,081-guests through engaging activities, talks and events aboard the ship, and carefully crafted themed shore experiences.Departing Melbourne on 5 January 2024, the Great Australian Culinary Voyage will see Queen Elizabeth chart an itinerary to Adelaide, Hobart and back to Melbourne over seven nights. Karen will be joined by additional exciting food, wine, and drinks talent to be announced in the coming months.Departing on 13 February 2024, Cunard's inaugural Voyage of Sporting Greats will sail a roundtrip from Sydney to Tasmania and back over 7-nights, with calls in Hobart, Port Arthur and Melbourne. Brett Lee will lead the line-up of Australian sporting icons, with more popular sporting talent to be announced shortly.At 90,900 tonnes, Queen Elizabeth is the second largest ship ever to sail in Cunard's fleet. She is home to just over 2,000 guests and 1,000 crew and features more than 10 restaurants and cafés, a Games Deck including paddle tennis, croquet and bowls, a two-storey library, a ballroom, and the Royal Court Theatre featuring West End style entertainment.Costa returns to Asia Costa Cruises announces the return to service in Asia of Costa Serena. From June to September 2023, the Italian company's ship will be operating a program of “charter” cruises, in cooperation with local Asian partners.The total number of cruises Costa Serena will offer in Asia in 2023 is thirty. Six cruises, in June 2023, will be dedicated the South Korean market; from July to September 2023 another twenty-four cruises are planned for the Taiwan market.The itineraries, lasting from 4 to 7 days, include some of the most beautiful destinations in East Asia, particularly Japan, such as Sasebo, Kagoshima, Otaru, Hakodate, Naha, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki. Departures are scheduled from the ports of Busan, Sokcho and Pohang in South Korea, and Keelung, Taiwan.Costa Serena is an Italian-flagged ship built by Fincantieri and entered service in 2007. She has a gross tonnage of 114,000 tons and can accommodate up to 3,780 guests. Before the pause in operations, which began in late January 2020, the ship offered cruises In East Asia, with departures from China.Carnival Splendor & Panorama are bound for Singapore Carnival Cruise Line has invited Aussie guests to escape the winter cold and set sail for Singapore as the brand announces two jaw-dropping cruises visiting the tropical jewels of Australia and South East Asia,Carnival Splendor's 15-day cruise from Sydney to Singapore departing 21 July 2024Visiting Singapore for her upcoming dry dock, Carnival Splendor will depart Sydney in July 2024 on a 15-day cruise, visiting favourite Sunshine State ports including Brisbane, Airlie Beach and Cairns. Guests will then have the opportunity to explore three special destinations rarely visited by Carnival as Splendor sails into beautiful Lombok Island, Indonesia and water-lovers paradise Benoa, Bali before arriving in the Garden City, Singapore.Carnival Splendor's 16-day cruise from Singapore to Sydney departing 24 AugustFollowing her three-week refresh in Singapore, cruisers will have the chance to be among the first to enjoy the new-and-improved Carnival Splendor as she makes her 16-day journey home to Sydney in late August. With six ports to visit on the two-plus week journey, guests will be spoilt for choice with places to discover across colourful Jakarta, Benoa, and Lombok Island, as well as tropical Darwin, Airlie Beach, and family-favourite Moreton Island. The cruise marks Carnival's first guest sailing to visit Tanjung Priok (Jakarta).Carnival Panorama will be the first Carnival ship to visit Manila, Philippines. Carnival Splendor will mark the cruise line's first visit to Tanjung Priok in Indonesia.18-day Transpacific Carnival Journeys sailing from Long Beach to Tokyo (Yokohama) departing on Aug. 22, 2024 – Ketchikan, AK; Cruise Endicott Arm Fjord; Sitka, AK; Icy Strait Point, AK; Kushiro, Japan; Aomori, Japan25-day Transpacific Carnival Journeys sailing from Singapore to Long Beach departing on Oct. 12, 2024 – Ho Chi Minh (Phu My), Vietnam; Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia; Manila, Philippines; Guam; Honolulu, HI, Maui (Kahului), HIP&O Cruises Australia's Pacific Encounter Set to Make a SplashHighly anticipated additions during drydock will include the installation of the 142-metre-long and 16-metre-high Twin-Racer waterslide and the P&O Edge Adventure Park. The Adventure Park, designed for thrill-seekers, will feature a 55-metre-long Zipline, Rock Climbing wall, Cargo Net, Walk the Plank, and Beam Walk; each sitting a heart-stopping 10 metres above Deck 16.Pacific Encounter will recommence her full program itineraries from Brisbane in March, visiting 24 unique destinations within Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific this yearHolland America Line Guests Donate $450,000 for Aid to UkrainiansA fundraising effort by cruise line passengers that took place on the high seas around six different continents culminated today with a large donation for Ukrainian relief. Holland America Line presented a check for $450,000 at the Port of San Diego to the global humanitarian aid organization Direct Relief, money raised during the premium cruise line's On Deck for a Cause campaign.For 10 months on every cruise in the line's 11-ship fleet, guests could make a $25 donation to participate in a fundraising 5K walk during their sailing, in locales ranging from Alaska to Europe and the Panama Canal to Australia.The check presentation took place at the Port of San Diego. San Diego is Koningsdam's homeport in the winter, with more than 62,000 guests embarking several Holland America Line ships at the port during the 2022/23 season.The fundraising effort began in March and coincided with a pledge of $3 million to charities helping Ukrainian refugees from the family foundation of parent company Carnival Corporation's chairman Micky Arison and his wife Madeleine. From April through September 2022, the Dutch government and City of Rotterdam chartered the Holland America Line ship Volendam as part of their larger effort to accommodate 50,000 Ukrainians who fled the war in their homeland.Carnival Corporation partners with Space X's Starlink Carnival Corporation & plc announced an agreement for the next-generation of internet connectivity across its global fleet, the latest in a series of moves that have nearly tripled ship bandwidth since 2019. The company has signed a new agreement with SpaceX's Starlink, the leader in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology, to provide faster service, greater capacity and more reliable Wi-Fi on a global scale.Fleet roll-out of Starlink began in December 2022 with Carnival Cruise Line and AIDA Cruises ships, with plans to expand Starlink to several of the company's other world-class cruise brands, which include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises (Australia), Costa Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Cunard.and more...Join the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialListen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. 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The Scootaround Monday Travel and Cruise Industry News, January 30, 2023 with Chillie Falls, LIVE from the Norwegian Breakaway and the Vloggers Extravaganza.. Today's show is basically a recap of everything that happened over the weekend. Included today, the latest on the Mexican Smoking Ban; huge traffic problems around Port Miami yesterday; ground broken for the Boom Supersonic factory; Carnival Splendor alters itineraries; Noordam snaps mooring line; Norwegian Escape cancels call; engine issues for Grandeur of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas arrives in Galveston; Alaska Air ousts plastic cups; and Pullmantur bankruptcy. #scootaround CLICK HERE to access video feed Thanks for visiting my channel. NYTimes The Daily, the flagship NYT podcast with a massive audience. "Vacationing In The Time Of Covid" https://nyti.ms/3QuRwOS NYTimes First Person Podcast " His Ship Finally Came In, but Should He Be on It? " https://nyti.ms/3zRJo4j To access the Travel and Cruise Industry News podcast; https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/travelcruisenews or go to https://accessadventure.net/ Save On Airfare https://bit.ly/3h6lXLf To subscribe: http://bit.ly/chi-fal As always, I appreciate super chats or any other donation to support my channel. For your convenience, please visit: https://paypal.me/chillie9264?locale.x=en_US Chillie's Cruise Schedule: https://accessadventure.net/chillies-trip-calendar/ For your special needs, contact me or Scootaround, https://www.scootaround.com/mobility-rentals, 1.888.441.7575. Use SRN 11137. Special Needs Cruising: https://youtu.be/DWR5kNM2x_g Check out my streaming partner: https://streamyard.com?pal=4889083533852672 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ChilliesCruises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chillie.falls Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChillieFalls Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chilliefalls/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chilliescruises Business Email: chilliefalls@gmail.com Accessible Travel Blog: https://accessadventure.net/ Chillie Chats With Sue Bryant, London Times Cruise Editor About Emerald Azzurra https://youtu.be/_bnrkqPf2gE Chillie Chats with Sylvia Longmire, Ambassador for Scootaround and WHILL Powerchairs https://youtu.be/VovRJ5Fh1I8 Chillie Chats With Disability Advocate Kristy Durso About Flying With A Wheelchair https://youtu.be/ZQVVPPpCLyc Chillie Chats With Special Guest Kevin Martin, 30 And A Wake Up https://youtu.be/TMDG-LfXyXE Chillie Chats With Kelly Narowski, Disability Rights Advocate and Avid Traveler https://youtu.be/NFB7LhkJ7go and https://youtu.be/LxbC5UW-Lsk Casino Loyalty Programs with Sue Sherer https://youtu.be/p0SsewJC_cE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode overviewIn episode 121, we shake things up and start off the show with a cruise review from long time listener Powlo, Thanks to Garry in Sydney, for the images of Grand Princess arriving into Sydney and his topical questions around the exchanging of plaques, plus of course the latest cruise news!Image credit: Coral Princess in Sydney harbour. Garry S, Sydney. Listener QuestionGarry asks: I'm thinking this is her first visit to our part of the world which gets me thinking about the commemorative plaques that I've seen on a number of ships(mainly the Princess fleet) which celebrate a ships inaugural visit to a port, some of the plaques are very stylish and yet some rather plain. I'm wondering if Chris could enlighten me on the history of these plaques?Are they a common occurrence to all ships or just specific to cruise ships?Also congratulations to Chris on the success of his YouTube channelSupport the showSupport the Show:Listen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhCruise NewsCelebrity Raising the bar for cruising from the UKCelebrity Cruises announced that for the first time, one of its industry-transforming Edge® Series ships will homeport in Southampton, UK for its entire 2024 season. The second ship in the line's award-winning Series – Celebrity Apex – will replace the recently-revitalised Celebrity Silhouette, opening up a new way for British guests to explore Europe in style.With four-to-13-night sailings from May to November 2024, travellers can delight in the beauty and culture of awe-inspiring Europe, whether for a short multi-city break or an extended adventure at sea.Guests onboard can expect to enjoy:The exclusive The Retreat® with its stunning suite accommodation, a private restaurant, and an exclusive lounge and sundeck to rival any high-end resort. In addition, a dedicated team of Butlers on-hand 24/7, ensures everything is taken care of while on holiday.Transformational accommodation, from modern two-storey villas with plunge pools to staterooms with infinite balconies, that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.The Magic Carpet®, soaring cantilevered above the sea and offering guests uninterrupted vistas while sipping cocktails or having dinner.A curated collection of 29 culinary venues including the brand-new Craft Social Bar, offering 40 handcrafted boutique beer selections, creative cocktails and a wide selection of a la carte, gourmet comfort food and bar bites. Globally-inspired menus, crafted by Michelin-starred chefs bring the flavours of the world straight to the plate, providing an epicurean journey unmatched at sea.7,000 square feet of retail offerings featuring renowned luxury stand-alone boutiques Bvlgari, Cartier and the first-ever Montblanc lifestyle boutique.First-at-sea F45 classes, along with Peloton bikes, and “Women in Wellness” onboard content and experiences from some of the most influential female leaders in wellness, augment well-being offerings throughout the ship.The exciting news brings one of the brand's newest and most innovative ships directly to British shores, signalling the importance of the UK market in the fast-recovering cruise industry.Azamara Unveils 155-Night World Voyage for 2025 With 46 Late Nights and Overnights  Azamara –is pleased to announce its 2025 World Voyage, departing from San Diego, California and visiting 37 countries before concluding in Southampton, UK. Taking place on the independent cruise line's latest ship, Azamara Onward, this itinerary will include 15 overnights and 31 late stays in port, giving guests more time to immerse themselves in each unique destination. Due to the high demand for Azamara's 2024 World Voyage, which is currently sold out with a waitlist, the cruise line is showing its appreciation for trade partners, loyalty guests, and past and current world-cruisers by giving them the exclusive opportunity to book first. Azamara's 2025 World Cruise will feature 13 complimentary land events, beginning with a kickoff gala in San Diego. Additional highlights of Azamara's immersive land experiences offered on the 2025 World Cruise include: Benoa, Bali: Guests will discover Benoa's natural beauty and the charm of the island's deep-rooted culture during a special AzAmazing Evening, where local performers will display traditional forms of dance with intricate footwork and finger movements.Bangkok, Thailand: A two-night stay offers guests the chance to truly immerse themselves in Bangkok's local culture through the city's food, music, dance, art and Buddhist temples. Travelers can opt for shore excursions to the mountainous city of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand and the Southeast Asian country of Lao, known for its Buddhist monasteries and French colonial architecture.Semarang, Indonesia: Semarang is known as the Venice of Java for the many rivers that run through the center of the city. From this port, guests can take a shore excursion to Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple dating back to the 9th century.In addition to taking guests to every corner of the world, Azamara's 2025 World Voyage offers over $25,000 in exclusive amenities, including $4,000 in onboard credit, an additional $3,000 for shore excursions, roundtrip business class air travel, a premium beverage package for two, weekly laundry service, and more. Azamara's 2025 World Voyage bookings are currently open to trade partners, loyalty guests, and past world-cruisers only. Bookings will open to the public on November 10,FIFA World cup will be broadcast on Costa ShipsCosta Cruises' ships will broadcast live the official matches of the next football World Cup, which will be held in Qatar from November 20 to December 18, on Sport 24, the in ship live sports channel.No matter where they will be cruising at that time – the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the United Arab Emirates, South America or transatlantic cruises – guests of the Italian company will not miss a single minute of the scheduled matches, even in the middle of navigation, thanks to satellite broadcasting with extensive coverage between the two hemispheres (northern and southern). The matches will be available free of charge both on the screens in the public areas of the ships and on cabin televisions.The flagship Costa Toscana will broadcast the first matches from the Western Mediterranean until late November, when she will sail to Dubai with a wonderful 20-day cruise. The final matches of the World Cup will be available during the first of the weeklong winter cruises to the United Arab Emirates and Oman, including long calls in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Muscat. Costa Smeralda will visit Italy, France and Spain weekly during the entire World Cup period, while Costa Deliziosa will offer one-week cruises to Greece, Croatia and Montenegro, departing from Bari and Trieste.Costa Fascinosa will be offering a 10-day cruise to Lisbon, an 11-day cruise to Morocco, and a mini-cruise in the Mediterranean. Costa Pacifica will offer mini-cruises in the Mediterranean. After that, in early December, both ships will move from Europe to the Caribbean, with 14- and 16-day transatlantic cruises, visiting two continents in one holiday.Costa Favolosa, Costa Fortuna and Costa Firenze will depart from Italy, November 18, 20 and 28, to Brazil and Argentina, where they will be operating throughout the winter, including the final matches of the World Cup, broadcast always on Sport 24.PONANT's Le Commandant Charcot turns to AirbusLe Commandant Charcot has sourced Airbus' expertise in high-resolution satellite imagery to prepare and fine-tune its future route plans in the Arctic. Already providing satellite images of the area to institutions for needs related to shipping, defence, and safety at sea, Airbus will now distribute them to PONANT with other joint applications being studied also.Images delivered by Airbus in near real-time provide valuable information on ice conditions along the route allowing the crew to then adjust the itinerary accordingly to better account for the updated environmental conditions, ensuring the ship's safety, optimise comfort for guests and limit fuel consumption.Carnival Takes delivery of Carnival Celebration Carnival Cruise Line's 50th birthday celebration is ready for the grand finale, and it involves a spectacular gift to its guests as the company took delivery of Carnival Celebration, the fleet's newest Excel-class ship and sister to Mardi Gras, at a signing ceremony at Meyer Turku in Turku, Finland. Carnival President Christine Duffy and Carnival Senior Vice President of New Builds Ben Clement joined CEO of Meyer Turku Tim Meyer to welcome Carnival Celebration into the fleet.The second ship in Carnival's ground-breaking Excel-class, Carnival Celebration is stunning from the first step on board, from its three-deck-high atrium to the dozens of dining and beverage concepts spread out across six themed zones – which include the Miami-inspired 820 Biscayne and an homage to all-things travel in The Gateway – plus, the award-winning BOLT roller coaster.Carnival Celebration will arrive at her homeport of Port Miami on Nov. 20 after a 14-day transatlantic Journeys Cruise from Southampton, England. A naming ceremony will be held that evening which promises a tribute to Carnival's past and more importantly a look ahead to its exciting future. Carnival Celebration will accommodate more than 5,200 guests, expanding Carnival's overall capacity and adding a spectacular new option for guests sailing from Miami as it operates Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries year-round. The week-long voyages will visit destinations like San Juan, Puerto Rico, Cozumel, Mexico and Grand Turk. To see current sailings from Miami on Carnival Celebration.Here comes the FUN QueenslandSailing into Australian waters on Sunday, Carnival Luminosa has officially arrived in the Sunshine State, bringing her unique blend of Carnival fun to Brisbane for the very first time.Ported at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal, a special message was sent to locals overnight as 61 of Luminosa's windows were lit with “We

Episode 119 OverviewIn Episode 119, we answer a listener question from Adrian around ship sizes, discuss the arrival of Celebrity Eclipse & Majestic Princess to Australia, the news around Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas and so much more… Thank you to Garry Stafford in Sydney for some incredible images which we have shared below. in the show notes of today's episodeSupport the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhImages thanks to Listener Garry in SydneyNew Videos from ChrisTop 5 BEST things about Coral Princess revealed!   https://youtu.be/MZLnh_fQnUk Majestic Princess makes BIG return to Australia! https://youtu.be/LLBe0K_w0A8Pacific Adventure NEW interior REVEALED! P&O shows off its newest ship! https://youtu.be/shIiv72zDyE Cruise NewsRoyal Caribbean unveils Icon of the Seas A new era of vacations starts here. Royal Caribbean International has revealed the first look at the highly anticipated Icon of the Seas, the Icon of Vacations. Arriving in late 2023 ahead of its January 2024 debut, the first Icon Class ship will be the travel industry's first-of-its-kind combination of the best of every vacation. From the beach retreat to the resort escape and the theme park adventure, with Icon, every kind of family and adventurer can experience their version of the ultimate family vacation.Whether “family vacation” means getting away as a family, couple or friends, Icon's all-encompassing lineup features a variety of firsts and next-level favourites for everyone. There are adrenaline-pumping thrills, including the largest waterpark at sea, and unrivalled ways to chill with more ocean views and pools – one for each day of the week – than ever before, plus a blend of more than 40 new and returning dining, bar and nightlife options, and cutting-edge entertainment.Royal Caribbean begins to spotlight what's in store with the first look at eight neighbourhoods that come alive day and night, including five brand-new adventures and three bold, returning favourites. Each one is a destination in and of itself filled with an array of experiences, live entertainment and ways to grab a bite and a drink, so that everyone can make memories their way every day.Ways to Play Across Five New NeighborhoodsThrill Island – Vacationers can test their limits, scale new heights and reach top speeds at the center of thrill. This lost island adventure is home to highlights like Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea, with six record-breaking slides: Pressure Drop and its 66-degree incline make it the industry's first open free-fall slide; the 46-foot-tall Frightening Bolt, the tallest drop slide at sea; Storm Surge and Hurricane Hunter, the first family raft slides at sea with four riders per raft; and Storm Chasers, cruising's first mat-racing duo. Living on the edge takes new meaning with Crown's Edge. Part skywalk, part ropes course and part thrill ride, it culminates in a surprising, shocking moment that will see travelers swing 154 feet above the ocean.Chill Island – Among the seven pools on board, four are in this three-deck slice of paradise. There's a pool for every mood, each with prime ocean views: the vibrant Swim & Tonic, the line's first swim-up bar at sea; Royal Bay Pool, the largest pool at sea; Cloud 17, an adults-only retreat; and the serene, infinity-edge Cove Pool. Plus, The Lime & Coconut returns with four locations, including Royal Caribbean's first frozen cocktail bar.Surfside – Introducing a neighborhood made for young families from end to end, where adults and kids ages six and under will want to stay and play all day. Grownups can soak up the endless views at Water's Edge pool, as they keep an eye on the kids at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay. Only steps away are dining options, places to lounge, a bar, the signature carousel, an arcade, Adventure Ocean, and Social020 for teens. The Hideaway – Tucked away, this neighborhood 135 feet above the ocean combines the good vibes of beach club scenes around the world and the uninterrupted ocean views only a cruise can offer. The first suspended infinity pool at sea is at the center of it all, and it's surrounded by a multilevel sun terrace with whirlpools, a variety of seating and a dedicated bar.AquaDome – Perched at the top of Icon, what's in store is a transformational place unlike any other. In a tranquil oasis by day, guests can take in wraparound ocean views and an awe-inspiring waterfall as they enjoy a bite or drink. By night, it becomes a vibrant place great for a night out, complete with restaurants, bars and the cruise line's marquee aqua shows at the next-level AquaTheater. The signature entertainment venue takes artistry and cutting-edge technology to new heights, with a transforming pool, four robotic arms, state-of-the-art projection and more.Ways to Play Across Three Familiar Neighbourhoods and FavouritesThe cruise line has raised the bar even further with each of its signature neighbourhoods: A grander Royal Promenade features its first floor-to-ceiling ocean views, plus more than 15 restaurants, cafes, bars and lounges; a more lush and livelier Central Park has more ways to dine and be entertained; and the largest Suite Neighbourhood is four decks of luxury, offering a multilevel suite sun deck – The Grove – that has a private pool, whirlpool and dining, and a two-story Coastal Kitchen. More returning favorites include experiences like new takes on mini golf at Lost Dunes, rock climbing at Adrenaline Peak, and Absolute Zero, Royal Caribbean's largest ice arena, and dining venues such as Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar on the Royal Promenade and the Asian-inspired Izumi in Central Park.With 28 ways to stay, even the rooms are thoughtfully designed for every type of vacationer. It's come one, come all with more choices, ocean views and room. There are new layouts made for families of three, four, five and more, like the Family Infinite Balcony and Surfside Family Suite – with kids alcoves tucked away from the adults – and the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse, complete with its own white picket fence and mailbox. When it comes to views, among the best are from the brand's first Sunset Corner Suites and Panoramic Ocean Views in AquaDome.Icon will sail year-round, 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations from Miami. Every cruise will visit Royal Caribbean's top-rated private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas.Celebrity Eclipse welcomed to Sydney Today (22 Oct) marks a new beginning, as Celebrity Cruises celebrates its highly anticipated return to Australian and New Zealand waters. Celebrity Eclipse is the first Celebrity ship to sail this region for 930 daysOn Saturday, Celebrity Eclipse set sail from Sydney, Australia, allowing guests to Journey WonderFULL on a 12-night itinerary exploring the ruggedly scenic wilderness of New Zealand. This voyage is the first of 17 sailings departing from Sydney and Auckland through April 2023, and the first for Celebrity Eclipse in Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific waters.Boasting 21 world-class restaurants and bars, stylish accommodations, an exclusive resort-within-a-resort area for suite guests at The Retreat®, plus an array of indulgent treatments at The Spa, Celebrity Eclipse exudes relaxed luxury. For guests looking to relax outdoors, Celebrity Eclipse is one of the only ships in the world featuring a ½ acre of real lawn grass. Appropriately named, The Lawn Club, this area of the ship is the perfect spot to play outdoor games, watch a movie, enjoy live music, enjoy endless ocean views or catch some sun. A Majestic Sydney arrival for Princess CruisesPrincess Cruises' Majestic Princess cruised into Sydney Harbour just before 5am this morning before docking at the Overseas Passenger Terminal (pictured) in the early light. More than 3,500 guests were on board, with the ship arriving after a 31-day trans-Pacific voyage from Vancouver during which she visited Los Angeles, Papeete, Tauranga, Auckland and the Bay of Islands.She's the second Princess ship to cruise locally since the cruise pause, joining Coral Princess which has been homeported in Brisbane since Jun this year. Majestic Princess will be based in Sydney for the next 197 days, with the Medallion Class vessel to operate 17 voyages including 71 port calls across the region  with an estimated $49 million impact to the economy.P&O Cruise Shares an Early Look at Pacific Adventure as She Prepares for her Maiden VoyageP&O Cruises Australia today shared a behind-the-scenes tour of its newest grandclass ship, Pacific Adventure, in anticipation of her much awaited first guest cruise – a round-trip three-night itinerary from Sydney departing this Saturday, 22 October. The newly transformed ship is the cruise line's third and final ship to join its fleet and will be homeported in Sydney year-round.Pacific Adventure will carry the cruise line's contemporary look and feel, offering an array of memorable experiences, unforgettable dining options, ultimate relaxation, thrill-seeking waterslides and ziplining.In addition to Pacific Adventure's 21 delicious dining options, including celebrity chef Luke Mangan's casual poolside Burger Bar, there are 60+ daily activities, including the P&O Edge Adventure Park. Cruisers will be able to reacquaint themselves with everything they know and love about a P&O cruise, including some exciting new updates.The Byron Beach Club is a brand-new offering on Pacific Adventure private access area is available to guests booking into the Byron suites or mini-suites. Guests love it for the serene and exclusive experience and calm atmosphere as well as Daily private breakfast in Angelo's, priority tender tickets, bottomless fruit basket, and branded Byron Beach Club flip flops to keep.The first-of-its-kind Twin Racer Waterslides offer unrivalled ocean views following the climb to the top! Guests can race against the clock and challenge family, friends, and new-found friends in this thrilling activity. The two 135-meter tubes include two sections that are transparent so racers can keep score on their opponent as they rush towards the finish line.Blanc de Blanc, Uncorked!: The latest creation from Creative Director Scott Maidment, Blanc de Blanc is the new risqué, Parisian-inspired show premieres this Saturday in Pacific Adventure's Black Circus theatre. The six-member cast will dazzle, surprise, and entertain guests with their showcase of world-class cabaret and acrobatic performances.The Lobby is a new concept for Pacific Adventure. Located on deck five are the heart of the ship and home to three food and beverage outlets – Avalon Café, Lily's and Charlies. It's here that guests will find the best barista coffee at sea and spaces to unwind with a cocktail, cheese platter and live music.Bars Onboard: The new Adventure Hotel offers a range of craft beers and ales in a relaxed environment. The Blue Room, an intimate music venue, will feature live performances from some of Australia's leading musicians. Over 18's can head up to the ship's new nightclub, Altitude, situated on the top of deck 18, boasting never-ending sea views.Oasis: This adult-only retreat is complete with kid-free pools and stunning sea vistas. It's the perfect place to soak up the sun and settle into a deckchair with a favourite book.P&O Cruises Australia the First Home-Grown Cruise Line to Offer F45 Training at SeaIn a first-of-its-kind offering, P&O Cruises Australia announced today it has expanded its fitness program to include F45 Training  for guests at sea.  As part of the exclusive partnership with P&O Cruises Australia, OneSpaWorld, the pre-eminent global provider of health and wellness services and products onboard cruise ships and destination resorts around the world, brought forth the culmination of a global partnership between the two home-grown Australian companies.The new program, offered daily to all guests, will include the iconic 45-minute functional training classes within the F45 Studio onboard the cruise line's newest ship Pacific Encounter – currently ported in Brisbane.World Famous Adventurer Bear Grylls to Join Cunard's in AlaskaCunard announces an exciting new line-up for Alaska 2023's Insights enrichment program with one of the most recognized personalities of outdoor adventure – Bear Grylls OBE – headlining the season.Grylls will be joining Queen Elizabeth's maiden 2023 Alaska voyage, roundtrip out of Vancouver on June 8, where he will share his experiences as one of the youngest climbers of Mount Everest, bestselling author, TV presenter and all-round adventurer. This will be Bear's first appearance on a cruise ship and the first time he returns to Alaska since his memorable visit with President Barack Obama in 2015.Guests aboard this 12-night voyage will experience the stunning Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord and Hubbard Glacier, with port calls in Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka and more. Award-winning naturalist Dr. Rachel Cartwright and a Cultural Heritage Guide from Alaska Native Voices will also be featured on this voyage as guests luxuriate on Queen Elizabeth through the breath-taking landscape of Alaska.Cunard will offer six additional voyages in the region throughout June, July and August, each showcasing a different explorer as part of the Insights Program.Guests will have the opportunity to hear from marine archaeologist Mensun Bound, known for his recent discovery of Shackleton's ship Endurance; British mountaineer Kenton Cool, who has summited Mount Everest 15 times, including leading Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Ben Fogle in their respective expeditions; Ann Daniels, one of Britain's leading Polar explorers and the first woman in history to ski to the North and South Poles as part of an all-women team; and Felicity Aston MBE, polar scientist turned explorer, award-winning author, TV presenter and world-record holder for being the first woman to ski alone across the Antarctic.The full line-up of onboard Insights speakers in Alaska 2023 include:Bear Grylls (June 8) – Bear Grylls is probably the most recognizable face of adventure on the planet. The former 21 SAS soldier was one of the youngest climbers of Mount Everest, despite breaking his back in a free-fall accident only months earlier. Bear's TV shows include the legendary Discovery show Man Vs Wild and the hit show Running Wild with Bear Grylls, now in its seventh season on National Geographic Channel. His Running Wild guests have included President Obama (in Alaska), Roger Federer, Julia Roberts, Prime Minister Modi of India and most recent Hollywood stars Natalie Portman and Ashton Kutcher.Bear is a family man, a bestselling author who has sold over 20 million books, the Honorary Colonel to the British Royal Marine Commandos and the first-ever Chief Ambassador to 55 million young Scouts worldwide.Kenton Cool (June 20 and 30) – Kenton Cool is an English mountaineer and mountain guide. He is one of Britain's leading alpine and high-altitude climbers and has summited Mount Everest 15 times, including leading Sir Ranulph Fiennes' 2008 and 2009 expeditions and Ben Fogle's 2019 expedition. He has completed over 20 notable expeditions in the Greater Ranges and in 2013, became the first person to climb Nuptse, Everest and Lhotse in a single push without returning to base camp. He has also skied two 26,000-foot mountains and guided a successful expedition to the summit of K2. He has also led expeditions through Alaska including North America's highest peak, Mount McKinley.Pen Hadow (July 7) – Explorer and Adventurer Pen Hadow was catapulted to international fame when he became the first and only person to complete one of the last great polar challenges – solo, without re-supply, from Canada to the North Pole. It took him three attempts over 15 years to achieve this single feat at the ‘bleeding edge of exploration'. Pen has a strong connection with Alaska in his adventures, including attempting to sail to the North Pole from Nome, Alaska.Ann Daniels (July 17) – Ann Daniels is one of Britain's leading Polar explorers. In 2002 Ann became a world record holder when she reached the North Pole despite unbelievable arctic conditions and became the first woman in history to ski to the North and South Poles as part of an all women team. This journey has never been repeated. In 2009, Ann took part in the first Catlin Arctic Survey over a period of 100 days, 1000km crossing of the ice cap in temperatures as low as -58ºF. The survey set off from Alaska, walking, skiing and on occasion swimming stretches of open water to reach the North Geographic Pole. Ann is described by The Daily Telegraph as one of the top 20 Great British Adventurers of all time.Felicity Aston (July 27) – Felicity Aston MBE is a Polar Scientist turned Explorer. In 2012 she became the first woman to ski alone across the Antarctic, a 1744km/1084m journey that took her 59 days and entered her in the Guinness Book of World Records. She has also created and led record-making ski expeditions to both the North and South Geographic Poles with international teams of pioneering women; skied frozen rivers and lakes in Siberia; driven 2,236 miles to the Pole of Cold (the coldest inhabited place on Earth); flown across the U.S. in an airship; and run the Marathon Des Sables footrace in the Sahara. An award-winning author of three books, professional speaker, and occasional TV presenter, in 2016 Felicity retraced the route of the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush and spent time mining for gold in Alaska and the Yukon to co-present a series for the BBC.Mensun Bound (August 7) – Known as the “Indiana Jones of the Deep,” Mensun Bound has conducted wreck surveys and excavations all over the world in a career that spans 40 years. During that time, he excavated one of the oldest known shipwrecks (600 BC). In 2019 Bound stunned the world with his discovery of Admiral von Spee's flagship, Scharnhorst, which had been lost in battle during WWI. That same year Bound was Director of Exploration for the first search to find Shackleton's ship Endurance. In 2022 the search resumed and on March 5 the Endurance was found and, as predicted by Bound, it was upright, largely intact, proud of the seabed in an excellent state of preservation.Holland America Line Partners with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation in Celebration of 150th AnniversaryHolland America Line will partner with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, the 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the eponymous landmarks, to celebrate the cruise line's 150-year journey from immigrant carrier to consumer ocean liner fleet. The partnership, which kicks off October 26 as Holland America Line completes the recreation of the brand's first-ever sailing from Rotterdam to New York City, features on-board video content across Holland America's entire fleet produced by an Ellis Island researcher, as well as a curated exhibit launching in 2023 at Ellis Island detailing the brand's historical prominence in bringing 1 in 10 immigrants from Europe to the United States.The collaboration will launch with a joint talk between Stephen Lean, director of The American Family Immigration History Center at Ellis Island and Bill Miller, noted cruise historian, detailing the immigrant experience in the late 1800s; the presentation will be available on-demand across all ships within the fleet. Noting the cruise industry's – and particularly Holland America Line's – importance in the immigrant journey from Europe to US, the Foundation will curate an exhibit in its History Center available for visitors from February to April 2023.The cruise line, which was founded in the Netherlands in 1873 as the Netherlands-American Steamship Company, was primarily a carrier of immigrants from Europe to the United States until well after the turn of the century, carrying nearly 2 million passengers to new lives in the New World. Holland America Line was the first to do away with “Steerage class” altogether, renaming it “Emigrants Class” where unlike the competition, guests were served three square meals. It is this level of care and attention to detail – a tradition and hallmark of the brand that has continued to this day – that was the impetus for its nickname at the time: “The Spotless Fleet.” Holland America Line provided everything from doctors and a pre-departure hotel complete with English lessons and classes on American civics to ensure passengers a safe journey to New York; and in fact, 99% of the immigrants carried on the fleet were cleared for entry through Ellis Island, a tremendous feat at the time.Holland America Line began the recreation of its first voyage with a sendoff October 15 from the Netherlands. The ship will sail past the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island as it arrives in New York City around 7am October 26.Windstar Cruises Partners with Coral Gardeners in TahitiWindstar Cruises has partnered with the Coral Gardeners, a Mo'orea (French Polynesia)-based organization determined to revolutionize ocean conservation and create a global movement to save the coral reefs through reef restoration, awareness activities, and innovative solutions. The team works to grow, plant, and monitor thousands of heat-resilient corals with the goal of bringing life back to the ocean.The three-year partnership begins this month with Windstar's $35,000 donation to Coral Gardeners to adopt coral for all guests sailing with Windstar in French Polynesia for the remainder of 2022.2022 is Windstar's 35th anniversary of sailing in Tahiti/French Polynesia – the longest of any operator in the region. (It's also the only destination where the U.S.-based cruise line sails year-round, giving guests ample opportunity to plan a once-in-a-lifetime visit in any season.) With two ships sailing French Polynesia throughout October, Windstar has been celebrating its 35th season all month long with special events, integration with local dignitaries and artists, and a heightened infusion of local culture both on board and ashore.Guests on the remaining 2022 sailings will receive a small card in their guest room, alerting them to the adoption of coral in their name. In 2023 and 2024, each guest booked on a Windstar cruise in French Polynesia will be presented with the option to adopt a coral for a donation of $35 per person. Unique coral adoption cards for those participating will be placed in their guest room on board.Windstar is confident the majority of guests will choose to donate to help save the reef they are enjoying on their Tahiti cruise.A decade of FUN down under It's been just over two weeks after returning to Australian shores and yesterday Carnival Cruise Line celebrated an incredible 10 years of providing Australians with fun-filled holidays at great value.Kicking off celebrations at Tangalooma, Moreton Island, passengers aboard Carnival Splendor were treated to the party of a lifetime with beach games on the sand, Carnival cupcakes and a giant ‘10 Years in Aus' sandcastle before returning to the ship for her journey home to Sydney.First arriving down under in October 2012, over one million guests have since experienced the fun of a Carnival cruise. In 10 years, Carnival has welcomed three ships to Australia, with a fourth ship to follow very soon – Carnival Luminosa.The latest in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, Australia will be the first market to experience Carnival Luminosa as she departs on her first passenger cruise in November 2022. Luminosa's arrival will also kick-start Carnival's first-ever Queensland program with 28 sailings departing from Brisbane from November 2022 to April 2023.Raising the bar! Happy Hour on Avalon WaterwaysGuests' next cold one is on Avalon Waterways! Beginning in 2023, the award-winning river cruise operator is lifting the spirits of its guests at Happy Hour on Suite Ships across Europe with free house beer, wine and spirits as well as a featured cocktail of the day.“Next year, we're inviting guests to toast an exhilarating afternoon and kick-off a lively evening on our European cruises with complimentary drinks at Happy Hour,” said Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways. “It's just another way Avalon is invested in hosting guests and every moment of their elevated cruising holiday through Europe.”From ‘proscht' to ‘prost' and ‘santé to ‘egészségedre' nothing says ‘cheers' like included drinks. And in 2023, Avalon Waterways is promising its cruisers a barrel of fun, every day and night!And moreJoin the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnEIcon of the SeasImage Credits: Royal Caribbean Cruises Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A review of Carnival Cruise Line's ship Carnival Splendor to southeast Alaska from Seattle. This voyage was taken in summer 2022. 

Support the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhThrow back to earlier episodesEp25 – Sue Cruise Director, River Cruising#25 – European River Cruising with APT Cruise Director Sue, Cruise News & more – The Big Cruise PodcastChris's Latest Video'sCarnival Splendor & Pacific Adventure's Dual Arrival: https://youtu.be/gBlbGbwGWxM Cunard Queen Anne Major Construction Milestone!: https://youtu.be/lz3PzytcS1g Listener PhotoImage Credit. Carnival Splendor Home in Sydney, by Garry S (NSW)Listener QuestionBrogan asks, When did Princess Cruises start and was it focused around the Love Boat? Cruise NewsCarnival Splendor Escorted Home to Sydney In one of Sydney Harbour's epic maritime events, Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Splendor arrived home today escorted by sister brand ship P&O Cruises Australia's Pacific Adventure as the official summer cruise season gets underway for Carnival Australia's eight brands, signalling growing cruise industry recovery.Carnival Splendor and Pacific Adventure met off the coast sailing together before separating to enter the harbour in majestic single file and momentarily pausing adjacent to Fort Denison, and the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge providing a stunning backdrop.This spectacular Fort Denison ‘moment' signified the fact that Carnival Splendor and Pacific Adventure are now both home-ported in Sydney to resume cruising on itineraries in Australia and to the South Pacific.Carnival Splendor's return also fulfilled a promise made by the crew of Carnival Spirit the night before their ship left Sydney in March 2020 as the two-year cruising pause began. They used cabin lights along the length of the ship to spell out the message: ‘WE WILL BE BACK'.Today's maritime pageantry also served to highlight the rapid recovery of cruising in Australia.Eighteen ships from Carnival Australia's eight brands are set for a peak summer cruise season in 2022-23 making 667 turnarounds and port calls to 33 destinations across the country.The number of ship turnarounds and calls eclipses the 625 that were announced prior to the 2019-20 season, which was curtailed due to the onset of the covid pandemic.Carnival Australia's three cruise brands that base ships year round in Australia — P&O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line — are well advanced in their restoration of local operations.In addition, Cunard will base Queen Elizabeth in Australia for its longest ever local season of cruises, while two Holland America Line ships and a Seabourn ship will also spend significant periods in Australian waters.Destinations in all Australian states will benefit from cruise calls and turnarounds including:NSW — Sydney, Eden and Newcastle.QLD — Brisbane, Moreton Island, Airlie Beach and Cairns.VIC — Melbourne and Phillip IslandSA — Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln.WA — Fremantle, Albany, Broome and the Kimberley region.TAS — Hobart, Burnie and Port Arthur.Godmother named for Carnival CelebrationCarnival Cruise Line today announced that actress Cassidy Gifford will serve as godmother to its newest ship, Carnival Celebration, at the ship's naming ceremony taking place November 20, 2022, in Miami.Actress Cassidy Gifford will serve as godmother to its newest ship, Carnival Celebration. She was surprised with the news by her mother Kathie Lee Gifford, who was Godmother to Carnival Celebration's namesake, M/S Celebration. In a video released today, she was surprised with the news by her mother Kathie Lee Gifford, who was Godmother to Carnival Celebration's namesake, M/S Celebration, christened in 1987. Her mother served as Carnival's spokesperson in the company's groundbreaking television campaigns going back to the 1980s, which were the first such network broadcasting advertisements for the cruise industry. Kathie Lee is also a four-time Emmy Award-winning television personality.Cassidy first started sailing on Carnival as an infant and has many childhood memories of vacationing on Carnival ships with her mother and her father, the late Frank Gifford, who was an NFL and sports broadcasting legend.“I was Carnival's spokesperson for nearly 20 years starting in 1984, a time when I got married and had my children. They joined me on many television shoots on Carnival ships, so we have so many great memories,” said Kathie Lee Gifford. “To be able to pass the torch to my daughter Cassidy as she is named Godmother of the new Carnival Celebration makes me so happy, I almost cried!”Cassidy has been acting from a young age and is best known for her work in the box office hits God's Not Dead and Warner Brothers' The Gallows. She has appeared in many other television and film roles, even winning the prize for Exceptional Emerging Artist at the 2018 Hollywood Film Festival. She currently lives with her husband in Nashville, Tennessee.Celebrating all things Carnival, Carnival Celebration will be the line's ultimate 50th Birthday gift when she debuts this November from the redesigned Terminal F at PortMiami. Carnival Celebration will be home to six themed zones and the line's second BOLT roller coaster.Cunard announces The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel UK touring production on Queen Mary 2Cunard, in conjunction with Simon Friend Entertainment, announces the performance of Deborah Moggach's The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel aboard flagship ocean liner Queen Mary 2 between 15 and 22 December 2022 (Voyage M240).Based on the bestselling novel that was turned into an award-winning film, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a joyous, feel-good comedy about taking risks, finding love, and embracing second chances, even in the most surprising of places. Headlining the show are celebrated stars of stage and screen, Hayley Mills (Pollyanna, The Parent Trap, Whistle Down the Wind) who stars as Evelyn, Paul Nicholas (Jesus Christ Superstar, BBC 1's Just Good Friends, EastEnders) who plays Douglas and Rula Lenska (ITV's Rock Follies, Coronation Street, Channel 4's Celebrity Big Brother) who performs as Madge in this feel-good tale of love and adventure.The show, which is currently in production at London's Richmond Theatre, will conduct three matinee and evening performances in the ship's Royal Court Theatre during the seven-night Transatlantic Crossing. In addition, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a behind-the-scenes Q&A, as well as workshops and other appearances with the star-studded cast.MSC Seascape showcases new productions and immersive experiences. MSC Cruises has revealed details of the new entertainment offerings on board MSC Seascape, including six fantastical new productions specially designed for the Chora Theatre. When MSC Seascape begins sailing in November this year, the innovative new Seaside Class flagship will provide endless hours of exclusive onboard entertainment featuring next-level production and interactive elements.The exciting new ship ship features the popular Dueling Pianos concept featured on MSC Seashore, which launched in 2021, as well as an entirely new theatre offering unique to MSC Seascape, including:SIX NEW PRODUCTIONS AT THE CHORA THEATREThe stunning Chora Theatre will be home to high-concept productions, with an exciting programme of varied shows offered every evening of the cruise, including six brand-new shows that will delight all guests.IMAGINOCEAN – Guests will be awe-struck by this ocean-themed production complete with aerial and flying acts, aquatic animal puppetry, vocalists, and dancers outfitted in beautiful couture costumes inspired by the sea.DREAMSCAPE – This otherworldly show will transport guests from real life to fantasy with circus performers, dancers and singers, along with interactive videos that will allow the audience to truly immerse themselves in an imaginary world.IN CONCERT – A cast of outstanding vocalists and dancers will perform the rock classics that guests know and love, with flashing lights and concert-style scenery that will make the audience rock out to their favourite hits.PREMIERE – Taking guests through cinematic history, singers and dancers will perform a celebration of movie genres showcasing the songs from unforgettable films with costumes and backdrops to match.SHALL WE DANCE – This enthralling dance performance will highlight a variety of dance styles from Latin, to ballroom, to contemporary, with technical artistry that will wow guests and leave them signing up for the next dance class on board.LOVE BLOOMS – Featuring larger-than-life costumes and a blooming garden that comes to life, this show brings nature on board with vocalists, dancers, and circus artists.BRAND NEW CONCEPT AT LE CABARET ROUGEInspired by French cabaret lounges of the 1920s, the Le Cabaret Rouge aft lounge will provide an elevated atmosphere for guests to enjoy unforgettable nights they will be talking about for the entirety of their sailing. Guests will be invited to step into the hottest new entertainment spot at sea, where they'll discover an exhilarating environment. With live performances, a band, singers, dancers, aerialists, contortionists, and many more specialty acts Le Cabaret Rouge brings the Roaring 20's back to life.MSC Voyager Club Cards Extended until Dec 2023 MSC Cruises is excited to advise they are extending Voyagers Club card benefits until 31 December, 2023 for cards expiring between October 2022 and April 2023.Voyagers Club members will have the unique opportunity to keep their current membership level and continue to receive all benefits. This is a great moment to book your next cruise and choose the destination you've been dreaming about.Book any cruise sailing between 1 November, 2022 and 28 February, 2023 before 30 November, 2022 and Voyagers Club members will receive 700 extra points credited before their departure. This is on top of the 5% membership discount to assist guests in upgrading their membership level faster. Silversea Reveals Enriching Line-Up of Experts for the Inaugural Sailing of Silver EndeavourSilversea Cruises, the leading ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line, has named its line-up of experts for the inaugural voyage of new ship Silver Endeavour℠, the world's most luxurious expedition ship. Departing round-trip from King George Island on November 21, 2022, Silver Endeavour will host qualified historians, marine biologists, anthropologists, naturalists, filmmakers, and more on her maiden voyage, enriching guests' experiences with informative lectures, workshops, and excursions as they journey deep into the White Continent. In celebration of the milestone occasion, Conrad Combrink—Silversea's SVP Expedition, Destination and Itinerary Management—will accompany travellers on the seven-day fly-cruise sailing.THE WHITE CONTINENT VIA ANTARCTICA BRIDGEFor the inaugural voyage of Silver Endeavour, Silversea's guests will fly directly to Antarctica in European business-class comfort through Antarctica Bridge, the cruise line's fly-cruise offering, embarking the ship on King George Island on November 21, 2022. Some of the destinations that guests might experience include the Antarctic Sound, where travellers may be greeted by towering ice formations as they approach the northernmost point of the Antarctic Peninsula. They will have the opportunity to explore the landscape, with hiking excursions, Zodiac tours, and kayaking, hosted by the expedition team. Days will be spent exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, with sightings of vast penguin colonies and other wildlife species, including whales, various other bird species, and seals. Following in the footsteps of famous explorers, Silversea plans to call in the South Shetland Islands, before returning to King George Island where guests will board a flight back to Punta Arenas.AN INDUSTRY-LEADING TEAMCaptain Niklas Peterstam, who has served aboard Silver Endeavour since September 2021, will welcome guests as the ship's Master for her inaugural season—together with his Senior Officers and an experienced crew. Strengthening Silversea's destination leadership, the cruise line's industry-leading expedition team will enrich the voyage with topical workshops, lectures, and guided tours. Led by Expedition Leader Marieke Egan, the team will embark the ship ahead of her maiden sailing and will remain on board for the duration of her inaugural Antarctica season. As well as benefiting from the presence of Silversea executive Conrad Combrink, guests travelling aboard Silver Endeavour's inaugural sailing will also enjoy lectures on Ernest Shackleton and the HMS Endeavour from Nicholas Crane, the former President of the Royal Geographical Society.Viking takes delivery of second expedition ship Viking announced it has taken delivery of the Viking Polaris, the company's second purpose-built expedition ship. The delivery ceremony took place this morning at Fincantieri's VARD shipyard in Søviknes, Norway, where Viking's first expedition ship, the Viking Octantis, was delivered in December 2021. The Viking Polaris immediately set sail toward Amsterdam, where she will be named on September 30 by her ceremonial godmother, Ann Bancroft, one of the world's preeminent polar explorers. Currently sailing in the Great Lakes, the Viking Octantis will also be named on September 30 by her ceremonial godmother, Liv Arnesen, the world-renowned Norwegian explorer, lecturer, author and educator. From Amsterdam, the Viking Polaris will make her way to South America, and both ships will spend the Austral summer in Antarctica, before travelling north to the Great Lakes for a series of voyages during spring and summer.Viking Expedition ShipsThe new Polar Class Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. The vessels are purpose-built for expeditions, at an ideal size for safety and comfort in remote destinations. With more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than other expedition vessels, guests are as close as possible to the most magnificent scenery on earth. Highlights include:The Aula: A stunning panoramic auditorium inspired by the University of Oslo's famed ceremonial hall, the former venue for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Used for lectures, daily briefings, documentaries and films, this spectacular venue features a 4k laser-projected screen that retracts to expose floor-to-ceiling windows and 270° views.Finse Terrace: An outdoor lounge area just above sea level with recessed seating and lava rock “firepits,” the Finse Terrace was designed to allow guests the comforts of the ship al fresco while enjoying the dramatic scenery. Named after the Finse Plateau in Norway, where some of the greatest polar explorers, including Nansen and Amundsen, did their expedition training in preparation for their North and South Pole expeditions.The Hangar: A state-of-the-art, industry-first in-ship marina providing ease of embarkation and disembarkation of Special Operations Boats and other equipment while sheltered from the elements.The Bow: An important forward-viewing platform. And in the case of inclement weather, The Shelter is a comfortable, partially enclosed space for guests to warm up with a hot drink before going back out into the elements.The Science Lab: Developed in partnership with the University of Cambridge and Akvaplan-Niva, The Science Lab, at 380 sq. ft., is designed to support a broad range of research activities and is equipped with wet and dry laboratory facilities. Guests have supervised access to The Science Lab to learn from and participate in undertaking meaningful research with scientists.Expedition Central: The hub for the expedition team to consult with guests on their expedition activities and share knowledge about the destinations on a one-on-one basis, with the aid of 3D printed maps, digital screens, and a state-of-the-art spatial data visualization chart table.Dining Choices: The Restaurant offers fine dining featuring regional cuisine and always-available classics; the casual World Café offers an open kitchen, bakery, grill and premium seafood and sushi choices, as well as a wide range of international flavors; Mamsen's, named for the Hagen family matriarch, serves Scandinavian-inspired fare; and Manfredi's offers the best of Italian cuisine.The Nordic Spa: Following a day of exploration, The Nordic Spa offers guests opportunities to experience the ultimate healthy Nordic traditions, with an indoor heated pool set against expansive windows and a badestamp (wood-sided hot tub) that is open to the outside.Explorers' Lounge: Located high on the ship with floor-to-ceiling windows, the Explorers' Lounge provides guests an ideal space to take in the magnificent scenery, share discoveries with fellow travellers or to enjoy a drink.The Living Room: On the Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris, The Living Room is located to maximize views of the surroundings through floor-to-ceiling windows and a library that informs even the best-read explorers. The Library is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as on all Viking vessels, as well as Cambridge University's Scott Polar Research Institute.Nordic Balcony: A first for polar expedition vessels, all staterooms on board Viking's expedition ships feature a Nordic Balcony, a sunroom that converts into an al fresco viewing platform with an observation shelf at elbow level to stabilize binoculars or a camera. Guests can choose from six stateroom categories that range from 222 sq. ft. to 1,223 sq. ft.—all with a Nordic Balcony, as well as a king-size bed and large bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and anti-fog mirror. Every stateroom is also equipped with a unique floor-to-ceiling drying closet that circulates warm air to dry and store clothing and expedition gear.A-ROSA River Cruises gets smart with new smartphone appA-ROSA River Cruises has launched the ‘A-ROSA APP', a new smartphone app which has been designed to provide guests with one, easy to use place to find a wealth of information on their cruise, both prior to departure and once on board. Currently the app is available for all guests sailing on A-ROSA SENA, ahead of a fleet wide roll out for the 2023 season.The new app will hold all the relevant information from the ship's onboard programme such as restaurant and bar opening times, details of the evening buffet menu which is updated daily and times that the spa and sauna is open. Guests can book excursions in the ‘My Trip' section, view the cruise itinerary and find other facts about the ship and life on board.An integrated bar menu is also a feature of the new app, enabling drinks to be ordered digitally. All tables in the SENA BAR, CAPTAIN'S VIEW and THE A-ROSA MARKET have QR codes that guests can scan using their own smartphone. This will then open up the extensive bar menu in the app, from which drinks can be ordered and brought directly to guests table.The app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play and is available for both iOS and Android users.This important development also plays a key role in the river cruise line's ongoing sustainability journey.and moreJoin the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnEImage Credit: Carnival Splendor, Sydney. Carnival Cruise Line. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Support the show Listen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory. Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the show Buy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider […]

Episode 115 overviewIn Episode 115, we focus on the latest news from MSC, re-routing cargo ships to protect marine mammals, Carnival Spirit enroute to Australia, Kangaroos Island welcomes Coral Princess, the countdown to Cunard's QE returning to Australia. P&O UK steps up entertainment on Arvia. Virgin Partners with sustainable marine fuel providers & Fred. Oslen celebrates Signature Experiences. Plus a listener question from Madeline.Throw back to the episode archives Ep14 – Captain Kate, Celebrity Cruises#14 – Captain Kate McCue on Celebrity Edge – The Big Cruise PodcastSupport the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhCruise newsWorld's Largest Container Line is Rerouting its Fleet to Avoid Collisions with Endangered Blue WhalesMediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has taken a major step to help protect blue whales and other cetaceans living and feeding in the waters off the coast of Sri Lanka by altering shipping lanes to avoid their habitat.A global leader in container shipping and logistics, MSC began in mid-2022 to voluntarily re-route its vessels passing by Sri Lanka, on a new course that is approximately 15 nautical miles to the south, in line with the advice of scientists and other key actors in the maritime sector.The decision was based on research surveys completed by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), with the World Trade Institute (WTI), Biosphere Foundation, University of Ruhuna (Sri Lanka), and supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).Westbound ship traffic is now limited to a latitude between 05 30N and 05 35N, and eastbound traffic is limited to a latitude between 05 24N and 05 29N in order to avoid designated cetacean habitats.Sri Lanka lies in the Indian Ocean, between Asia and Europe, and the port of Colombo is a major transshipment hub for global trade.The area off its southern coast is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world and is also inhabited by large populations of whales, meaning that these animals may be at risk of colliding with ships.Simulations have shown that moving the official shipping lane 15 nautical miles to the south could reduce the strike risk to blue whales by a whopping 95%.CARNIVAL LUMINOSA OFFICIALLY REGISTERED WITH THE BAHAMASAs part of its transition to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, Carnival Luminosa was officially registered today with the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA). During the ceremony, Carnival Luminosa's senior leadership team and the classification society completed all necessary registration processes, and Deck Cadet Mark Casson, a Bahamian citizen from Freeport, raised the new Bahamian flag.When the ship departs for Dubai, she will be flying the Bahamian flag to designate the new ship registry. Eventually arriving to Australia in less than two months, Carnival Luminosa will sail a variety of seasonal itineraries from Brisbane from Nov. 6, 2022 to April 13, 2023, offering something for everyone, before repositioning for seasonal service from Seattle to Alaska next May, including some exotic, first-time-for-Carnival destinations.Carnival Splendor crosses the international date line on-route to Sydney Australia. The guests and crew on Carnival Splendor, currently sailing a Transpacific Journeys cruise on its way to restart Carnival Cruise Line's operations in Australia, can (sort of) consider themselves time travellers now that the ship has crossed the International Dateline while sailing westward in the southern Pacific Ocean. By crossing this internationally recognised calendar boundary, the ship skipped a full day of the week – turning Wednesday into Friday for all on boardFollowing Carnival Splendor's departure from Seattle on Sept. 6, after the ship's successful deployment as part of Carnival's biggest-ever Alaska season, guests on board have enjoyed an unforgettable opportunity exploring the natural beauty of this South Pacific cruise. Carnival Splendor made several stops across Hawaii, visiting Honolulu, Kona, Hilo and Maui. Carnival Splendor will soon visit the Fiji Islands, with stops in Suva and Port Denarau.Arriving in Sydney on Sept. 30, Carnival Splendor will be the first Carnival ship returning to guest operations in Australian waters in nearly 1,000 days. The ship will homeport in Sydney now year-round, with her first cruise departing Oct. 1.Carnival Splendor's return also coincides with Carnival's 10th year of operations in Australia. In November, Carnival Luminosa will complete the cruise line's two-ship deployment to Australia with sailings from Brisbane.Kangaroo Island's emotional reunion with Princess Cruises Kangaroo Island this week welcome its first cruise ship in more than two and a half years, sharing a special connection with both the valuable sector of the visitor economy and the visiting cruise line.Princess Cruises was the first cruise line to visit the island following the devastating bushfires in January 2020, with a special visit by the Sun Princess “in a show of support for the local community”.Many guests of that voyage made donations to South Australia's bushfire relief and Princess Cruises directed revenue from the day's shore excursions to the state's bushfire appeal. The visit was also hoped to help send a message to the world that Kangaroo Island was ‘open for business'.This weeks arrival of the Coral Princess is one of a record-breaking number of visits scheduled for South Australia in 2022/23 – including 32 visits to Penneshaw – and the beginning of a restart of a once $145 million sector of the state's visitor economy.With almost 2,000 passengers and 895 crew, the Coral Princess will return to Penneshaw on another itinerary in April 2023, while other Princess ships are also scheduled for Penneshaw this season through as far ahead as April 2024. This includes one of the biggest ships to visit Kangaroo Island, the Majestic Princess, which carries up to 3,560 passengers and 1,346 crew.Other cruise ships scheduled for Kangaroo Island this season (September 2022 to April 2023) include P&O's Pacific Explorer with up to 1,998 passengers and 924 crew, Cunard's Queen Elizabeth with up to 2,081 passengers and 980 crew; and Holland America's Westerdam carrying up to 1,964 passengers and 800 crew.Princess facilities first martial arts programme at sea FUJI Sports (FUJI), the outfitter and equipment provider for more than 18 million martial arts competitors and academies worldwide since 1969, and FUJI Mats, the worldwide leading supplier of premium mats, facility equipment, and design services, have announced a partnership with Princess Cruises that will now make FUJI the exclusive cruise partner to stage seminars, events and competitions spanning the globe.he first “Princess and FUJI Adventures Cruise” takes place January 7-14, 2023 on Sky Princess for a Caribbean voyage. The experience will depart from Fort Lauderdale with stops at Princess Cays (Bahamas); San Juan, Puerto Rico; Amber Cove (Dominican Republic); and Grand Turk (Turk and Caicos).  The Princess and FUJI Adventure Cruise will include Olympians and World Champions who will engage with martial arts enthusiasts throughout the voyage. Highlights of the Princess and FUJI Adventures Cruise include:Seminars with leading martial arts expertsShoreside martial arts events in ports of callFamily competitions and prizesSpecial edition co-branded gearCulinary demonstrations with celebrity chefsIndustry speakersBusiness-to-Business networking opportunities50 days and counting: Cunard's Queen Elizabeth returns to Australia In less than 50 days on 7 November 2022, Cunard line's iconic Queen Elizabeth returns to Australian shores for the first time since early 2020. Fremantle in WA will host Queen Elizabeth's first local call this homeport season.For many, the arrival of a Cunard Queen marks the beginning of the local summer cruise season. Throughout her 121-day record Australian residence, Queen Elizabeth invites guests to experience once-in-a-lifetime encounters and unique itineraries.The inaugural Great Australian Culinary Voyage features Australian produce and bespoke menus created by leading chefs Matt Moran, Mark Olive and Darren Purchese. The 5-night roundtrip from Sydney departing on 28 January 2023, features calls in Melbourne and Burnie where the culinary experiences continue on shore with one-off excursions curated especially for the sailing.Gardening royalty Graham Ross and Jamie Durie will share their knowledge onboard Cunard's first Gardening Journey departing Melbourne on 4 February 2023. Throughout the 7-night-sailing, these and many more special guests will share their best tips and the top trends in gardening via informative talks, hands-on workshops and on-shore experiences.Australian personalities Sir Peter Cosgrove, Dawn Fraser and Nova Peris will inspire guests with anecdotes from their lives on Queen Elizabeth's inaugural circumnavigations of Australia.The last time a Cunard Queen circled the continent was back in 2014, so this is a very rare opportunity for travellers to enjoy what the prestigious British cruise line is all about on an extended sailing: impeccable service, exemplary fine dining, grand Gala Nights, dynamic West End style entertainment and enough room to feel special, unwind and relaxEntertainment firsts and new talent on board P&O Cruises newest ship ArviaP&O Cruises newest ship Arvia will offer guests a range of entertainment firsts, including WaveLength, a new interactive gameshow, virtually starring presenter and game show host Ben Shephard.Created exclusively for P&O Cruises and hosted in The Headliner's Theatre, WaveLength will give guests the opportunity to find out how well they know each other as they try to match their partner's answersNew to P&O Cruises on board Arvia:Greatest Days – Arvia is the only place in the world where guests will be able to watch the stage musical, Greatest Days – The Official Take That Musical. Greatest Days is an adaptation of the acclaimed West End musical The Band, which features the songs of Take That and is a beautiful story by Olivier Award-winning writer Tim Firth. It will be brought to life on stage by an amazing cast from our Headliners Theatre Company.Altitude – Arvia's outdoor adventure zone for the whole family. Situated at the very top of Arvia, families will be able to enjoy the new aqua zone at Splash Valley, where plenty of shade and sprinklers will make it the perfect place on a hot day with fantastic views.Set 54m above the ocean, Altitude Skywalk is P&O Cruises first ever high-ropes experience and will offer guests a series of rope walks with different routes to suit all levels.Altitude Minigolf will be the new, tropical island-themed minigolf open all day and illuminated at night. The whole family can enjoy the challenge together as they perfect their putts while dodging hippos, water hazards, and tiki huts to claim the winning title.Mission Control – Exclusive to Arvia, Mission Control is a unique immersive experience. Set on board the fictional submarine Arvia II, it combines an escape game with multimedia simulation and a live-action story to create a thrilling underwater challenge. The realistic 3D surroundings will take guests to the depths of ocean canyons, where they will be able to overcome danger and solve puzzles and problems.Other entertainment highlights on Arvia include:The 710 Club – The 710 Club on Arvia is a sophisticated bar crafted to Music Director GaryBarlow's creative vision. Atmospheric and low-lit, The 710 Club offers live music from resident band The 710s with an unmistakably vintage vibe and stylish cocktails.Aardman – P&O Cruises has partnered with Aardman to offer children a range of Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep themed activities. Children will be able to join in a themed dance class or craft workshop such as making their own Gromit ears or can sit back and enjoy film premieres or Wallace & Gromit's brand-new show, All Hands on Deck!Ocean Studios – Located on Deck 6, Ocean Studios is Arvia's three-screen multiplex cinema offering the latest blockbuster releases and family favourites in a plush setting.Virgin Voyages Partners with Sustainable Marine Fuel ProvidersVirgin Voyages, a new cruise line with an efficient fleet of ships amongst the youngest in the industry, today announced that it has partnered with independent sustainability experts, the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), along with three leading waste-based sustainable fuel providers to deliver low carbon fuels to the marine industry. Argent Energy, GoodFuels and Twelve are collaborating with the cruise line to further advance Virgin Voyages' commitment of reaching net zero by 2050.Following months of detailed research, Virgin Voyages has taken an important step to advancing a low-carbon future by establishing key partnerships and building a portfolio approach to sustainable marine fuel (SMF) supply. Recognizing there is currently no one-size-fits-all, low-carbon fuel solution, Virgin Voyages will enter into long-term agreements for sustainable marine fuels with these providers, which includes plans to add others over time.Adopting drop-in sustainable fuels, such as those made from abundant, problematic waste or direct air capture of CO2, is paramount for reducing emissions and reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Virgin Voyages estimates that by switching to sustainable marine fuels, the line will reduce its life-cycle carbon emissions from fuel by 75% or more.Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines celebrates the Joy of the Journey with new Signature ExperiencesFred. Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled five new Signature Experiences to celebrate the Joy of the Journey on board each of its sailings.The experiences will focus on Itinerary Insights, the Sky at Sea, Treats of the Region, Scenic Discoveries and the Ship and the Sea, with each to be delivered by specialist guides who are experts in their field.Open air sunrise, sunset or stargazing events will be among the highlights of the Sky at Sea, while there will be chances to join a guide on deck to spot wildlife, flora and fauna or join a hosted talk in one of Fred. Olsen's panoramic Observatory Lounges in Scenic Discoveries, as the ship sails through some of the world's most beautiful waterways, lochs, lakes and fjords and interesting seascapes.The Itinerary Insights programme will offer lively lectures and smaller, more informative talks, on cultural, artistic and historical highlights to give guests a deeper understanding of the destinations they will visit, while the Ship and the Sea will shine a spotlight on Fred. Olsen's five generations of maritime traditions, and include ‘an Audience With' programme with Captains and crew for those who are curious to find out more.Fred. Olsen's creative chefs and galley teams will showcase the Treats of the Region with live cookery demonstrations of local delicacies, giving guests the chance to sample dishes famous in the places they'll be visiting and learning how to recreate them at home.The cruise line has already started to introduce elements of its Joy of the Journey programme onto its sailings for 2022, with the full programme to be up and running on all cruises from 2023.This includes Balmoral's 78-night ‘Exploration of South America and the Antarctic' cruise setting sail on 5th January 2023 with guests to be joined by Falklands veteran Simon Weston who will share tales of his time during the Falklands War.Other highlights include the chance to join cookery demonstrations to learn how to make Chilean empanadas, Uruguayan chivito and Brazilian feijoada as guests sail to their places of origin, or opportunities to join the guides out on deck for a scenic sunrise while sailing through the Chilean Fjords, a sunset at the ‘end of the world' in Ushuaia, the southern most tip of South America, or for a stargazing evening while sailing the Atlantic at the furthest point from land.And more...Join the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. 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Thursday Weather Update is the lead story on today's Travel and Cruise Industry News Podcast, September 8, 2022 with Chillie Falls, LIVE from Manning, South Carolina. Difficulty with the WiFi signal caused the cancellation of the chat room at the end of the show. Also today, Norwegian Encore Changes Itineraries; Carnival Splendor on its way to Australia; Margaritaville at Sea Launches New Sail Free Program; And Much More, LIVE At 11 AM EDT. To access video feed, CLICK HERE Thanks for visiting my channel. NYTimes The Daily, the flagship NYT podcast with a massive audience. "Vacationing In The Time Of Covid" https://nyti.ms/3QuRwOS NYTimes First Person Podcast " His Ship Finally Came In, but Should He Be on It? " https://nyti.ms/3zRJo4j To access the Travel and Cruise Industry News podcast; https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/travelcruisenews or go to https://accessadventure.net/ Save On Airfare https://bit.ly/3h6lXLf To subscribe: http://bit.ly/chi-fal As always, I appreciate super chats or any other donation to support my channel. For your convenience, please visit: https://paypal.me/chillie9264?locale.x=en_US Chillie's Cruise Schedule: https://accessadventure.net/chillies-trip-calendar/ For your special needs, contact me or Scootaround, https://www.scootaround.com/mobility-rentals, 1.888.441.7575. Use SRN 11137. Special Needs Cruising: https://youtu.be/DWR5kNM2x_g Check out my streaming partner: https://streamyard.com?pal=4889083533852672 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChilliesCruises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chillie.falls Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChillieFalls Business Email: chilliefalls@gmail.com Accessible Travel Blog: https://accessadventure.net/ Chillie Chats With Sue Bryant, London Times Cruise Editor About Emerald Azzurra https://youtu.be/_bnrkqPf2gE Chillie Chats with Mark Chilutti on Accessibility of Oasis of the Seas https://youtu.be/ibuJe7sfvrA Chillie Chats With Kelly Narowski, Disability Rights Advocate and Avid Traveler https://youtu.be/NFB7LhkJ7go and https://youtu.be/LxbC5UW-Lsk Casino Loyalty Programs with Sue Sherer https://youtu.be/p0SsewJC_cE Chillie Chats with Camille Segobia on Solo Cruising https://youtu.be/PsoTywFMuSo Chillie Chats with Author Ivan Cox a/k/a Dr. Gerald Yukevich, The Cruise Ship Doctor, https://youtu.be/juZmIuYv-IU Chillie Chats With Speaker, Writer and Wheelchair Traveler Lilly Longshore https://youtu.be/tyrV6KZE-9Q Cruise Amigos with Jeannine Williamson https://youtu.be/_s9L_cV72fk Chillie Chats With Jordan Taylor, of JJ Cruise https://youtu.be/O5Khw0avcTQ Chillie Chats With Coleen McDaniel, Cruise Critic's Editor-In-Chief https://youtu.be/5mbjRqNcRXk Chillie Chats With Cruise Critic's Adam Coulter from Norwegian jade https://youtu.be/NVEPLIQ-tH0 Cruise Amigos with Jeannine Williamson https://youtu.be/_s9L_cV72fk Chillie Chats With Captain Mick, Active Disabled Americans https://youtu.be/B3g17D8Tv6Y Chillie Chats With Ashley Lyn Olson, WheelchairTraveling.com https://youtu.be/N4kCil4xT3M Chillie Chats with Allison More about Norwegian Fjords https://youtu.be/Y2V4c6TVauY Chillie Chats With Shelby Frenette about TA Training https://youtu.be/OhBRwS5Hp1M Chillie Chats With Bubba Shumard On Europe, TA and Tahiti https://youtu.be/sVvg5DKeqQs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cruise News Today — September 8, 2022. Hurricane Earl is interrupting voyages to Bermuda this week, causing Carnival Magic to cancel an overnight. Carnival Splendor is returning to Australia after sailing in North America for the past few months. Viking Mississippi debuted earlier this week in Minnesota. Cruise line stocks were up for CCL, RCL, and NCLH. 

Episode 112In Episode112 of The Big Cruise Podcast, Chris joins the show to answer a listenerquestion about P&O Australia followed by the latest in global cruise news. Specialthanks to David in Scotland who sent in some incredible photos of Ponant's LeChamplin in Greenock, Scotland. Image Credit David GoudieSupport the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhCruise NewsFirst Cruise Ship Returns to Auckland Following an absence of more than two years, P&O Cruises flagship Pacific Explorer sailed into Waitemata Harbour, Auckland (12 Aug) becoming the first cruise ship to return to New Zealand marking the restart of cruise tourism following the reopening of maritime borders.Pacific Explorer and her guests, currently on a 12-night round-trip cruise from Sydney to New Zealand and Fiji, were accorded a traditional Māori welcome after berthing at Queen's Wharf. Guests also received a spectacular greeting as they emerged from the Cloud to fan out across Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland and the district on locally run tours.Among those welcoming Pacific Explorer were local business owners covering a wide range including hospitality, tours and transport, who have been looking forward to the restoration of the economic opportunities associated with cruise tourism. Pacific Explorer's welcoming group also included Julie McEwen, a young New Zealand citizen who is building an international reputation as a cruise director on board P&O ships.AIDAprima: Stunning ship staging at the Hamburg Cruise DaysOn Saturday 20 Aug evening, the cruise ship AIDAprima was the star on stage at Hamburg Cruise Days. Together with the MSC Magnifica, the ship “danced” a fascinating “Pas de Deux on blue” in front of the backdrop of a blue-lit harbor. The elaborate staging was accompanied by an impressive light show, a drone ballet and music.“We are delighted to be part of this impressive light show with AIDAprima. Not only the sky above the Elbe was made to shine, but also many faces of the people of Hamburg and visitors, who have long been yearning for such an event full of goosebump moments and vacation joy,” says Hansjörg Kunze, Vice President Communication & Sustainability.The Hamburg Cruise Days ended on Sunday with the departure of AIDAsol. The cruise festival has attracted more than 135,000 visitors.Carnival Luminosa Brisbane Cruises open for sale In exciting news for Queensland cruise fans, Carnival Cruise Line has today revealed its first-ever Brisbane program with 59 sailings departing from the Sunshine State from November 2022 to April 2024.Sailing on board the latest addition to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, Carnival Luminosa, guests will have the opportunity to discover the brighter side of cruising with a ship packed with natural light, plus hospitality and fun that's pure, unmistakable Carnival.Carnival Luminosa will be the latest in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet to be adorned with the stunning new livery that was introduced on Mardi Gras in 2021 and has been added to half the Carnival fleet, with the red, white and blue hues long associated with Carnival Cruise Line. The ship will also boast a vintage funnel design reminiscent of the funnels on Carnival's original ships like Mardi Gras, Carnivale and Festivale.Carnival Luminosa will also be home to many of the activities and experiences from other Carnival ships that guests have come to know and love as well as some new spaces. Featuring guest favourites from entertainment, youth, and spa to bars and dining, offerings will include Playlist Productions, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Limelight Lounge, Piano Bar 88, Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Rum Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Chef's Table, Bonsai Sushi Express, Seaday Brunch, Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, and Cloud 9 Spa, among others.Itineraries for inaugural seasonKicking off guest operations in Brisbane, Carnival Luminosa will visit a range of stunning destinations across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. Among the incredible program, highlights include ten visits to the Great Barrier Reef and an 11-day cruise visiting Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, and New Zealand's picturesque Fjordland National Park.Guests will also have the opportunity to embark on a globetrotting 22-day Transpacific Journey sailing when Luminosa heads to Seattle via the South Pacific and Honolulu in April 2023. After her season in Seattle, Carnival Luminosa will return to the Sunshine State for more fun later in 2023.Carnival says thanks with an extra day of fun for Splendor's first sailingSaying thanks to its most dedicated fans, Carnival Cruise Line announced that guests booked for Carnival Splendor's first cruise back in Australian waters will receive an extra day of fun.Previously set to depart from Sydney on 02 October 2022, Splendor will now set sail on Saturday, 01 October, bringing the cruise to four days in total. What's more, guests will now have the chance to visit one of Australia's best-kept secrets, Tangalooma Island Resort – Moreton Island, QLD as part of their itinerary. Previously the cruise was a three-day roundtrip getaway.Existing passengers booked will receive this extra day on-the-house, providing even more opportunities to explore the 45+ activities to experience onboard Carnival Splendor, including the exhilarating Green Lightning thrill-slide, delicious Indian cuisine at Masala Tiger, signature cocktails at Alchemy Bar, and much more!Carnival Names senior officers of Carnival CelebrationAs its newest ship is just three months away from joining the fleet, Carnival Cruise Line today named the senior leadership team of Carnival Celebration, set to arrive to Carnival's hometown homeport, PortMiami, this November. Capt. Vincenzo Alcaras, Chief Engineer Fabien Gervaise and Hotel Director Pierre Camilleri will lead more than 1,700 crew members on the new ship.Carnival Celebration is currently under construction at Meyer Turku in Finland, and its new leadership team is there getting acquainted with the new ship as construction is completed.Capt. Vincenzo Alcaras: When Carnival Celebration completes its first week in service from Miami, Capt. Vincenzo Alcaras will also mark his 26th anniversary with Carnival Cruise Line. Starting in 1996, Capt. Alcaras, who is originally from Italy, worked on Carnival's first Celebration iteration, the M.S. Celebration, as a second officer. He was promoted to first officer while on board M.S. Celebration and was then promoted to Safety Officer two years later. He first became captain in Sept. 2006 on Carnival Miracle. He's worked on several ships throughout the fleet and he has been part of the inaugural team for newbuilds, overseeing the delivery of Carnival Breeze and Carnival Celebration's Excel-class sister Mardi Gras.Favorite place on board: WheelhouseFavorite food on board: My recipe at Cucina del CapitanoFavorite Playlist Show: Celestial StringsMost memorable moment with Carnival: When I was appointed captain on Carnival Miracle in 2006.Favorite things to do when not on board: I love to spend time with my family as much I can, read books and watch soccerCaptain Vincenzo will be assisted by Chief Engineer Fabien Gervaise & Hotel Director Pierre Camilleri:Celebrity Cruises celebrates construction milestone on Celebrity AscentSparks flew as workers at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard welded a ceremonial coin to a massive steel docking block forming the ship's keel, officially marking the beginning of construction on the fourth ship in Celebrity Cruises transformational Edge Series – Celebrity Ascent℠.Placing the coin in this time-honoured maritime ceremony were Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company of Celebrity Cruises; and Laurent Castaing, General Manager of Chantiers de l'Atlantique. According to the legend – and a tradition that has spanned centuries – the laying of the coin is thought to bless and bring good fortune to the ship.Celebrity Ascent is the fourth ship in the line's ground-breaking Edge Series, a class of ships hailed as engineering and design marvels. Like her industry-changing sister ships, Celebrity Edge®, Celebrity Apex℠, and Celebrity Beyond℠, Ascent will connect guests to the breathtaking world around them like never before. Standing at 17 decks tall and 20 metres longer than the original Celebrity Edge, Ascent will also feature more space and more luxury onboard.Celebrity Ascent will debut in Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades on 3 December, 2023 for her inaugural Caribbean season of alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Contact your local CLIA accredited cruise specialist for availability and rates. The Viking Saigon Begins Inaugural Season in Southeast AsiaViking today announced that its newest river ship, the Viking Saigon, has begun its inaugural season in Southeast Asia. Purpose-built for the Mekong River, the 80-guest ship sails between Kampong Cham, Cambodia and Mỹ Tho, Vietnam as part of Viking's popular 15-day Magnificent Mekong itinerary. With the 2022-2023 season now underway,  regular sailing dates are available through March 2023; the 2023-2024 season begins in July 2023.The Viking Saigon: Purpose-built for the Mekong River, the new Viking Saigon hosts 80 guests in 40 outside staterooms. Featuring the clean Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, all staterooms have hotel-style beds and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a Veranda or French Balcony. Guests on the three-deck Viking Saigon also enjoy a Spa & Fitness Center, Infinity Pool and open-air Sky Bar on the Upper DeckViking's newest ship named on The NileViking named its newest river ship, the Viking Osiris, with a celebration in Luxor, Egypt. As part of the intimate event, the company's first ceremonial godfather, George Herbert, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—an evolution of the naval tradition that dates back thousands of years. Designed specifically to navigate the Nile, the state-of-the-art ship was built at Massara shipyard in Cairo and will sail Viking's bestselling Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.The naming of the Viking Osiris comes as Egypt marks several key events this year, including the highly anticipated opening of the new Grand Egyptian Museum outside of Cairo on the Giza Plateau and the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb by the world's most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor and co-explorer, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon.The Viking Osiris & Viking's Growing Egypt FleetHosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new, state-of-the-art Viking Osiris is inspired by Viking's award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The vessel features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. The Viking Osiris joins the Viking Ra, which launched in 2018. Additionally, in response to strong demand, the Viking Aton, an identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, will join the fleet in 2023. During today's naming event in Luxor, Hagen also announced that two more sister ships, the Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek, are already under construction and will be delivered in 2024 and 2025, respectively.MSC Cruises has announced an update to its Northern Hemisphere Winter 2022/23MSC Virtuosa will replace MSC Preziosa in Northern Europe, offering the planned ‘Northern Pearl' sailings – a newly introduced winter itinerary in 2021. The 7-night cruises call Hamburg in Germany; Zeebrugge for Bruges and Brussels in Belgium; Rotterdam in the Netherlands; Le Havre for Paris, France and Southampton for London in the UK.MSC Preziosa will now be based in Santos, Brazil offering a range of mini sailings and 7-nights that include Uruguay and Argentina as well as cruises calling at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for New Year and Carnival in February. MSC Preziosa's local season will finish with a 22-night Grand Voyage from Santos and Rio de Janeiro to Northern Europe for Summer 2023.MSC Bellissima will replace her sister ship MSC Virtuosa in the Mediterranean, where she will offer the planned 7-night sailings calling at the Italian ports of Genoa, La Spezia, Naples then Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona in Spain and Marseille in FranceAnd moreJoin the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. 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Seven-night cruise on Celebrity Eclipse to Southeast Alaska sailing from Vancouver, British Columbia.   Richard has cruise news:  1. More cruise lines relax or drop vaccination mandates and pre-cruise testing 2. This past Monday, Carnival Cruise Line had a recording booking day for the first time since 2019  3. Virgin Voyages is getting a surge of a half billion dollars in fresh capital 4. An extra day for guests sailing Carnival Splendor in Australia in October 5. The rockslide in Skagway, Alaska, has closed one pier for the rest of the 2022 season  6. Princess Cruises partners with a NASCAR race team Listener Question: Should I buy the Cloud 9 Thermal Suite on Carnival in advance for $199, or will it be cheaper once onboard? We are on a week-long cruise on Carnival Panorama in October.  --- Thoughts or questions? doug@cruiseradio.net  Want daily cruise news? Subscribe to the Cruise Radio News podcast feed.  Get in-depth cruise news and industry insight at www.cruiseradio.net. Direct download: EPI708AUG112022.mp3

Welcome to our final instalment of our Alaska cruise on Carnival Splendor.  Join Lisa and George as they fill you in on the last leg of their cruise.  Sit back and enjoy this adventure.

OverviewIn episode 104 Chris answers a listener question about the ss Norway, whilst Baz brings the latest cruise news from around the world, including the new Kimberly season for Le Ponant (pictured).Image Credit: Le Ponant by Ponant. Support the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7Rdh.Listener QuestionAlice from Miami asks Chris “Was the ss Norway originally a liner before conversion to cruising?”Cruise NewsPONANT unveils Pinnacle Kimberley Experience onboard iconic Le Ponant for 2023Ponant is set to take luxury expeditions to another level, opening sales for their highly anticipated 2023 inaugural Kimberley sailing expedition programme onboard the company's iconic three-masted sailing yacht Le Ponant.Commencing on 7 April 2023, Ponant ‘s programme of 26 new itineraries onboard Le Ponant for the 2023 Kimberley season covers the Northern Kimberley, Southern Kimberley, and the Rowley Shoals.Ponant's expertise and signature travel visions onboard Le Ponant highlight the unique mix of adventure, sustainability, and barefoot luxury. The newly refurbished yacht has been transformed to feature the latest technical innovations to reduce emissions and is equipped with state-of-the-art Zodiacs for shore landings and excursions. Having been entirely renovated with a sleek, sophisticated design by Jean-Philippe Nuel Studio, Le Ponant offers an intimate setting with only 16 staterooms for a maximum of 32 guests being looked after by 32 crew members.  An invitation to sail and experience Australia's breathtaking Kimberley coastline on a journey that combines exploration and eco-responsibility in luxury. As an exclusive addition to this experience, the Northern and Southern Kimberley itineraries include an exclusive charter flight between Kununurra and Kuri Bay or Broome and Kuri Bay on board one of Australian company Paspaley's vintage Grumman Mallard flying boats to take guests from or to their embarkation point, as well as an exclusive guided visit of Paspaley's pearl farms in Kuri Bay.Viking Saturn Meets Water for First TimeViking announced its newest ocean ship—the 930-guest Viking Saturn—was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Scheduled to debut in April 2023, the Viking Saturn will spend her maiden season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and in Northern Europe.The traditional float out ceremony took place at Fincantieri's Ancona shipyard and is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. The float out of the Viking Saturn began at approximately 11:00 a.m. local time when the Viking team cut a cord that signalled water to flow into the ship's building dock. Following a two-day process that will set the Viking Saturn afloat, she will then be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.Viking Saturn – Viking's ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that can host 930 guests. The Viking Saturn will join the award-winning fleet of identical sister ships, which includes Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Sky, Viking Orion, Viking Jupiter, Viking Venus and Viking Mars. The Viking Neptune will be delivered in late 2022.Its Official – Authentic Gelato Experience at SeaItalian Chamber of Commerce Certifies Gelato Experience On Board Princess Ships as First to Offer the Authentic Confection Outside ItalyWith the start of summer, scooping up one of Italy's most famous desserts from Gelato onboard Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess just got a little sweeter. The Princess Cruises gelato shops have been designated as Ospitalità Italiana, and are the first and only locations to offer an authentic Italian gelato experience outside of Italy.The prestigious Ospitalità Italiana designation is issued by the Italian Chamber of Commerce committee, an organisation of the Italian government, and confirms that every step of the gelato-making process meets or exceeds a strict set of standards as approved by official Italian auditors and experts, who review the process on a yearly basis. Only gelato shops that attain outstanding quality status are awarded the official Ospitalità Italiana certification.Princess Cruises handcrafts its fresh gelato with Italian-certified ingredients and equipment each day in the pastry kitchens onboard the cruise line's three newest ships – Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess. Corporate pastry chef Eric Le Rouzic trained with the best Italian chefs at the Gelato Carpigiani University in Bologna and the Gelato Comprital Atheneum in Milano to master the art of making this heaven in a bowl. Princess uses top-of-line gelato machines by renowned manufacturer Carpigiani and the Gelato display cases were produced in Italy by expert craftsmen.Fun Fact – Gelato Isn't Ice CreamAccording to legend, the recipe for Gelato was popularised when architect Bernardo Buontalenti was asked to create a special confection for a member of the Medici noble family in the 16th century. Buontalenti mixed milk, eggs, sugar and extracts in a special machine surrounded by ice and salt, and egg cream-based gelato was born.While it's creamy, gelato has less butter fat and fewer calories. The authentic Italian ingredients are combined with Princess' freshly sourced fruit and is made each day with milk, not requiring the extra fat from cream that is needed in ice cream for a longer shelf life. As a result, a scoop of gelato is 80-100 calories and the sorbet or “fruit gelato” has no fat and is only 50-60 calories, with no dairy.Christening Ceremony in Barcelona for Costa ToscanaCosta Cruises celebrates in the port of Barcelona the christening ceremony of Costa Toscana, the newest Italian-flagged ship in the Costa Cruises fleet, that leads to the discovery of “the art of living the sea”.Godmother of Costa Toscana is Chanel, a young singer, actress and dancer who enjoyed great success in Spain and in all Europe after her exhibition during the 2022 Eurovison Song Contest. She will join the ship's Captain Pietro Sinisi for the ribbon-cutting ceremony in which a bottle will be shattered on the ships bow, as per maritime tradition.Costa Toscana represents the restart of Costa Cruises' fleet, which will operate 10 ships this summer. Summer 2022 appears to be heading toward a significant upswing in travel. According to research commissioned by Costa Cruises from Human Highway in Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Switzerland and Austria, nearly 14 million of Europeans dream of taking a cruise in the next 12 months.Costa Toscana is a true travelling smart city; Thanks to the use of liquefied natural gas, it is possible to eliminate almost completely the emission of sulfur oxides (zero emissions) and particulates (95-100% reduction) into the atmosphere, while also significantly lowering emissions of nitrogen oxide (direct reduction of 85%) and CO2 (up to 20%).During summer 2022, Costa Toscana offers a week-long itinerary making calls in some of the most beautiful cities and islands of the Western Mediterranean, including two calls in Spain: Savona, Civitavecchia/Rome, Naples, Ibiza, Valencia, and Marseille.COSTA by CARNIVALCosta Cruises announces a new program for the next seasons for Costa Venezia and Costa Firenze as the Company teams up with Carnival Cruise Line creating a new concept for Carnival's North American guests when COSTA by CARNIVAL debuts in the spring of 2023 and Costa Venezia joins the Carnival fleet. Costa Venezia will be followed by Costa Firenze arriving in the spring of 2024.Carnival will operate Costa Venezia and Costa Firenze with an offer that will marry Costa's Italian style with the great service, food, and entertainment that Carnival's guests enjoy. The ships will continue operating their regular Costa itineraries until they are assigned to Carnival for deployment.Carnival Luminosa will homeport in Brisbane from November 2022 Carnival Cruise Line announced today that Costa Luminosa will join the Carnival fleet in September and will start guest operations as Carnival Luminosa in November 2022 from Brisbane, Australia. The acquisition of Luminosa is an update to the previously announced plans for Carnival to take Costa Magica, which will now remain at Costa Cruises.After this delivery, Carnival Luminosa will operate seasonally from October through April from Brisbane, then reposition to Seattle, where it will sail Alaska itineraries from May through September, before returning to Brisbane.Luminosa is a sister ship to the four other popular Spirit class ships that already sail for Carnival. Entering service in 2009, the ship accommodates up to 2,826 guests and 1,050 crew at 92,720 gross tons.Rolls Royce on Carnival Ecstasy Gets a New Home on Carnival CelebrationFor three decades, an antique Rolls Royce has been sailing the high seas – on board Carnival Ecstasy. Now, the well-known fixture will continue its travels on Carnival Cruise Line's next new ship, Carnival Celebration.The vintage car, a 1934 Rolls Royce Saloon, was carefully offloaded from Carnival Ecstasy while the ship was docked in Mobile, Ala. last Thursday (click here to see video). It is being carefully shipped to the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland where Carnival Celebration is under construction.The car thousands of Carnival guests have admired and taken pictures of over the years will soon find a new home adjacent to The Gateway, a two-deck zone aboard Carnival Celebration which celebrates travel and the excitement of exploring new destinations.The Gateway zone includes The Golden Jubilee, a bar venue highlighting Carnival's evolution of ships over the last 50 years. The bar will feature memorabilia and original pieces from several of Carnival's earlier vessels and so the Rolls Royce will add to the nostalgia.Carnival Ecstasy's designer searched all over the United Kingdom to find the perfect car to fit the space outside the ship's Rolls Royce Café. It was acquired from a small antique car dealer in the hills of Northern Wales. Carnival Ecstasy is finishing its final sailing season and will be retired in October.Carnival Celebration, the second of Carnival Cruise Line's new Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)-powered ships will begin service in early November with a 14-day transatlantic voyage from London (Southampton) to its homeport of PortMiami. Her arrival will continue the celebration of Carnival Cruise Line's 50th birthday.THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS! – 100 DAYS UNTIL CARNIVAL SPLENDOR'S RETURNCarnival Cruise Line is today celebrating 100 days until the return of Carnival Splendor to Aussie shores. Following a successful season cruising in Alaska, Sydney's own Carnival ship will arrive home on 30 September, bringing the Carnival fun back to guests and crew.With over 900 days since her last Australian cruise, Carnival Splendor will offer Sydneysiders a range of action-packed itineraries from Aussie favourites including Moreton Island and Carnival's famous Melbourne Cup cruises, to New Zealand and to stunning South Pacific ports including Noumea, Isle of Pines and Mare.Carnival Splendor offers a host of exclusive features for Aussie guests to both discover and rediscover, including:Green and Gold waterpark: The action-packed Carnival Waterworks was built specifically for Australia in green and gold colours, complete with a world-first on a cruise ship – the Green Lightning thrill-slide that begins with an impressive 11.3-metre free-fall drop. Waterworks also boasts a 104-metre-long Twister Waterslide, power drencher tipping bucket and mini racing slides.Splashy Cove: Splashy Cove is a special waterpark created just for little ones with fun to be had splashing about with spray toys and mini waterslides. It's also home to a colourful mural inspired from drawings by patients from The Children's Hospital at Westmead.Cloud 9 Spa and Serenity Retreat: For Aussies who love to relax, Carnival Splendor features the Cloud 9 Spa and Suites, offering everything from a thalassotherapy pool, to thermal suites and state-of-the-art fitness centre. Adults can also unwind at the well-known adults-only Serenity Retreat and enjoy the sea breeze with a cocktail in hand.Dining options: Featuring over 17 different dining options including Masala Tiger, made precisely for Aussies' adventurous tastebuds and offering fresh and flavourful Indian cuisine straight from the tandoor. Juice and Java, a juice and coffee bar, has also been created exclusively for the Aussie market, while Fahrenheit 555 offers the finest cuts of beef available at sea, cooked to perfection. These tasty offerings join Carnival fan-favourites, such as Seafood Shack, Pizzeria del Capitano and Guy's Burger Joint.Australia's favourite coffee: Carnival has partnered with Vittoria Coffee, Australia's number one pure coffee brand, to make sure the fresh new JavaBlue Café delivers flat whites, long blacks and lattes to perfection.Carnival Splendor's first passenger cruise from Sydney will depart on 02 October 2022.Six Months Until Norwegian Spirit Debuts Down UnderNorwegian Cruise Line (NCL), is celebrating the six-month countdown to the Australasian debut of the all-new Norwegian Spirit for her inaugural local sailing season.A completely reimagined ship following her extensive bow-to-stern USD$100m renovation – the most expensive refurbishment in NCL's 55-year history – Norwegian Spirit's arrival on 22 December 2022 also marks NCL's long-awaited return to Australian waters.Norwegian Spirit will sail 10 local itineraries between December 2022 and March 2023, including a selection of eight 12-day open-jaw sailings between her dual home-ports of Sydney and Auckland, visiting a variety of regional and metropolitan destinations such as Hobart, Burnie, Melbourne and Eden in Australia, as well as Napier, Tauranga, Wellington and Akaroa in New Zealand. Plus, she will offer two Extraordinary Journeys through the South Pacific, from Papeete to Sydney in December and Sydney to Papeete in March 2023. Norwegian Spirit then returns in December 2023 for her second season home ported in Australian waters.Top Three Destinations to ExploreBurnie: Tucked away on the northwest coast of Tasmania, Burnie is a quaint seaside enclave renowned for its eclectic shopping, local maker's workshops, boutique chocolate shops, cafes and galleries – the ideal spots to pick up unique souvenirs to treasure back home. Other highlights include strolling along the Emu Bay waterfront, learning about local wildlife at the Little Penguin Observation Centre or whisky tasting at the internationally acclaimed Hellyers Road Distillery.Tauranga: The largest city in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is a hub for fishing, sailing, kayaking and adventure sports. Those who prefer their action on the ground will enjoy the city's shopping and gallery scene, or a seaside meal at the buzzing Strand Waterfront precinct. The nearby Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park is popular with travellers keen to hike, spot native birds or learn more about the area's gold mining history.Doubtful Sound: A genuine wilderness wonderland, Doubtful Sound is less a port of call and more a scenic sailing experience, characterised by dramatic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, sheer cliff faces and captivating wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and penguins. Larger yet less visited than Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound's majestic beauty will captivate travellers who enjoy areas of untamed natural beauty, and there is no better way to take it all in than from the deck of a cruise ship.NCL commits to Asia 2023-2024 ItinerariesNCL will return to Asia for the 2023-2024 cruise season, featuring 12 immersive and port-rich sailings ranging from 10- to 12-days on board Norwegian Jewel as well as a 16-day Extraordinary Journey from Seattle, Washington (U.S.) to Tokyo, Japan.The extensive season will operate from October 2023 to March 2024 and will see a vast choice of departure ports including Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan; Taipei (Keelung); Singapore; Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia; Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand; Benoa, Bali; and Seoul (Incheon), South Korea. In addition, the Company will make “Brand first” visits to four ports in the region including Puerto Princesa, Boracay, Salomague and Hualien, where travellers will explore the natural beauty and rich culture of the Philippines and Taiwan.Norwegian Jewel returns to Asia for her second successful season in the region following a 16-day repositioning cruise from Seattle, Washington (U.S.)  to Tokyo, Japan via the wilds of Alaska. Her port-intensive Asia itineraries mostly include less than two sea-days per cruise as well as multiple late-night departures and overnight calls on select itineraries in Osaka, Japan; Singapore; and Phuket, Thailand. Almost all cruises are open-jaw, allowing travellers to bookend their voyage with land explorations in different exotic destinations.On board Norwegian Jewel, guests can enjoy numerous amenities including action-packed activities at the outdoor Sports Complex, high energy Zumba® and Flywheel Sports® classes, and multiple uniquely themed bars and lounges, including Bliss Ultra Lounge where guests can dance the night away. Norwegian Jewel, with a guest capacity of 2,376, also offers some of the largest suites at sea with staterooms that accommodate every style and budget. The ship also offers a Haven Deluxe Owner's Suite that features the most luxurious, well-appointed accommodations on board, including a 24-hour butler service.NCL Year round in Europe Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), announced its return to the Canary Islands for the first time since 2017, delivering guests more choice and flexibility with a year-round Europe cruise offering in 2022.Following a grand 22-day transatlantic voyage from Miami to Lisbon, Norwegian Sun will make her return to Europe offering immersive Canary Island sailings from 21 November 2022. Cruises on board the nearly 2,000-passenger ship will range from 10 to 14 days and will provide guests with greater flexibility by offering a choice of embarkation ports, including Lisbon, Portugal; Malaga, Spain; and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands. Furthermore, during Norwegian Sun's debut six-month season in the region she will call to various new ports for NCL, including Puerto del Rosario (Fuerteventura) and San Sebastian de la Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain; Cueta, Spain; Agadir, Morocco; and Horta (Azores), Portugal.Including Norwegian Sun, nine NCL ships are sailing in European waters this summer and make up the greatest European fleet in the cruise line's history. Calling at more European ports than any other contemporary cruise line, NCL will offer guests greater choice than ever before, including Norwegian Prima, the newest member of NCL's fleet and the first in the ground-breaking Prima Class, set to debut in Iceland in August 2022. NCL's extensive range of European itineraries in 2022 include voyages to the Greek Isles, the Norwegian Fjords, the Mediterranean and the Canaries.Double Newbuild milestones for MSC The Cruise Division of MSC Group and Chantiers de l'Atlantique celebrated two important milestones for MSC Cruises' first two liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessels both under construction in Saint-Nazaire, France.MSC World Europa, the first LNG vessel to join the cruise line's fleet and set to become the biggest LNG-powered cruise ship in the world, completed her first set of sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean that included testing the performance of the ship's engines, manoeuvrability, fuel consumption, safety systems, speed and stopping distances.Meanwhile, MSC Euribia was floated out and has now been moved to a wet dock for work to continue on the ship before she also joins MSC Cruises' fleet in June 2023.MSC has invested €3 billion in three LNG-powered cruise ships and the construction at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique yard in Saint-Nazaire of the third ship – ‘World Class II' – is due to start early next year.Viking Announces New 2024 Ocean VoyagesViking has today announced the release of several new ocean voyages and new 2024 departure dates on some of their most popular itineraries.New voyages include the 36-day Grand Fjords & Iconic Viking Shores taking in the striking natural beauty of Iceland, Greenland and the Canadian provinces of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia; plus two new itineraries combining the West Indies with the Mediterranean and the Iberian Peninsula.In addition to new 2024 departure dates on some of their most popular voyages, Viking has also announced they will be re-opening two Hawaiian voyages exploring the islands of Hawaii, Oahu, Maui and Kauai and traversing the South Pacific to Moorea, Bora Bora and the secluded Marquesas Island.New itineraries include:36-day Grand Fjords & Iconic Viking Shores from Amsterdam to New York City or v.v. Departures: June and July 2024.25-day West Indies & the Mediterranean from San Juan to Venice or v.v. Departures: March 2024.13-day West Indies & the Iberian Peninsula from San Juan to Barcelona Departures: March 2024.Voyages with new departure dates:17-day Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailing Los Angeles return – Departures: December 2023 and February 2024.33-day Grand Hawaii & Polynesia sailing Los Angeles return – Departures: November 2023 and January 2024.18-day Panama Canal & the Pacific Coast from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles or v.v. – Departures: January and March 2024.29-day Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyond from Bergen to New York City or v.v. – Departures: May to August 2024.22-day Mediterannean & Adriatic Sojourn from Athens to Barcelona or v.v. – Departures: February to September 2024.15-day Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada from Reykjavik to New York City or v.v. – Departures: June and August 2024.8-day Iceland's Natural Beauty circumnavigating Iceland from Reykjavik – Departures: July and August 2024.Windstar Celebrates 35 Years in the Tropical Paradise of TahitiIt's the island paradise so beautiful that French artist Paul Gauguin couldn't stop painting it. Fletcher Christian didn't want to leave it and mutinied (on the HMS Bounty) to stay there. Remote, tropical, romantic, and beautiful – it's one of the world's most aspirational places to visit: The Islands of Tahiti, otherwise known as French Polynesia.  The Islands of Tahiti are best accessed via small ship – allowing effortless travel amongst some of French Polynesia's most storied and iconic 121 islands and atolls. Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises simply knows it best, having sailed the longest of any operator in the region and celebrating 35 years of Tahitian sailings in 2022. It's also the only destination where the U.S.-based cruise line sails year-round, giving guests ample opportunity to plan a once-in-a-lifetime visit in any season.This October, there's double the chance. The 148-guest Wind Spirit, complete with sails built for the breezes of the South Pacific, is sailing around the Islands of Tahiti now, but in October, Windstar will move the all-suite, 312-guest Star Breeze to the region, increasing capacity with two yacht options to choose from. All-suite Star Breeze features newly transformed guest suites,  two new restaurants, a new World Spa, an infinity pool, and more. Although without sails, Star Breeze is ideal for accessing the shallow lagoons that helped make the destination famous. Both Wind Spirit and Star Breeze feature Windstar's signature sports platform, opening up right off the back deck into crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding .  In February 2024, Star Breeze will move to Tahiti year-round in place of Wind Spirit.A-ROSA SENA completes maiden voyageOn 18 June 2022, the A-ROSA SENA departed from Cologne for her maiden voyage with her first guests on board. Prior to this, the ship was blessed in Düsseldorf by Deacon Michael Inden, as well as christened by Clara Eichler, daughter of A-ROSA CEO Jörg Eichler, in the presence of the management, the investors and the crew. Due to supply challenges, the first cruise started slightly later than initially planned, which meant that this ceremony took place in a small circle only. Thanks to the hybrid propulsion system, the first departure was accomplished with the help of electrical energy from the battery storage.Guests and crew were excited about the sustainable new ship: “A-ROSA SENA's design is truly unique on the river. Together with the spacious interior layout, she offers a completely new travel experience”, comments hotel manager Dennis Brenner. Captain Ulrich Schwalbe adds: “Thanks to the hybrid propulsion system and the exhaust gas purification filter, you don't notice any emissions on board and can just enjoy the pure cruising experience.” The E-Motion Ship recently received the “German Award for Sustainability Projects 2022” for her environmentally friendly technologies.Throughout the summer, the A-ROSA SENA offers 7-night voyages from Cologne via Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Dordrecht and Antwerp. Guests can disembark individually or discover the destinations through exclusive shore excursions organized by A-ROSA. Whether a gracht tour in Amsterdam, a visit to the miniature world Madurodam in Rotterdam, a canoe trip through the nature reserve Biesbosch or a culinary city tour through Antwerp – there is something for all tastes. The last day of the trip is a cruising day during which guests can enjoy everything the ship has to offer at their leisure: The large SPA-ROSA with sauna, whirlpool and massage room, the fitness area, two pools on the sun deck, the Kids Club for little guests and various restaurants and bars.Queensland Couple Embarks on Two Years Back-to-Back Cruising as Coral Princess Begins Historic Inaugural Cruise SeasonIn an amazing illustration of their passion for cruising, Brisbane couple, Jessica and Marty Ansen, embarked on an incredible two years of back-to-back cruising as Princess Cruises' Coral Princess, the first cruise ship home ported at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal, began its first cruise season following the restart of the Australian cruise industry.Jessica and Marty Ansen have previously sailed on 31 cruises with Princess with 1,173 days at sea. They have been anxiously awaiting cruising's restart to indulge their love for holidaying on the high seas with a landmark 53 separate cruises between now and August 2024.And the couple is not ruling out adding more voyages to keep their life at sea sailing along into the future.“Cruising offers the ultimate holiday experience. You go onboard, you only unpack once, and you have all this amazing entertainment, exceptional food, great company and you can see the world. And, the crew deliver incredible service – that's why we cruise.”The Ansens booked their two years of back-to-back cruises (795 sea days) – including two round world cruises in 2023 and 2024 – with Brisbane-based family-owned travel agency, which has specialised in booking cruise holidays since 2007.And moreJoin the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. 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Listen to George and Lisa as they give you the lowdown on their Alaska cruise on Carnival Splendor.  They will tell you about the ship and give you great advice on how to make your next cruise special.

Tuesday Travel and Cruise Industry News May 10, 2022 with Chillie Falls onboard Quantum of the Seas off the Canadian coast west of Vancouver, British Columbia, sailing toward Ketchikan, Alaska. Quantum is scheduled to land in Alaska tomorrow morning at 8 AM PDT. Today's Headlines: Breaking News This Morning; Havila Can't Get Insurance, Havila Capella Can't Sail; Fire Reported During Refueling Operation; Virgin Closes Credit Loophole; 9th HAL Ship Sails; and much more LIVE at 11 AM EST. Cruise Ships Sailing From North American Ports Today May 10 San Diego Star Breeze Los Angeles Long Beach Los Angeles San Pedro San Francisco Ruby Princess Seattle Norwegian Sun, Carnival Splendor, Carnival Spirit Anchorage Majestic Princess L&C Faribanks Majestic Princess L&C To access video feed, GoTo: https://youtu.be/vrMnw0WfaXk Thanks for visiting my channel. Recent NYTimes Feature: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/26/opinion/a-cruiser-sets-sail-despite-covid.html Link to Group Cruise: https://travelfunbiz.com/2022-dec-4-11-7-days-ncl-encore-caribbean-great-stirrup-cay-dominican-republic-from-miami-florida/ To access the Travel and Cruise Industry News podcast; https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/travelcruisenews or go to https://accessadventure.net/ Fly For Free https://bit.ly/35YeWqF Save On Airfare https://bit.ly/3h6lXLf To subscribe: http://bit.ly/chi-fal As always, I appreciate super chats or any other donation to support my channel. For your convenience, please visit: https://paypal.me/chillie9264?locale.x=en_US Chillie's Cruise Schedule: https://accessadventure.net/chillies-trip-calendar/ For your special needs, contact me or Scootaround, https://www.scootaround.com/mobility-rentals, 1.888.441.7575. Use SRN 11137. Special Needs Cruising: https://youtu.be/DWR5kNM2x_g Check out my streaming partner: https://streamyard.com?pal=4889083533852672 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChilliesCruises Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chillie.falls Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChillieFalls Business Email: chilliefalls@gmail.com Accessible Travel Blog: https://accessadventure.net/ Chillie Chats With Sue Bryant, London Times Cruise Editor About Azamara and Ponant https://youtu.be/61ZTnHHl2eY Chillie Chats With Kelly Narowski, Disability Rights Advocate and Avid Traveler https://youtu.be/NFB7LhkJ7go and https://youtu.be/LxbC5UW-Lsk Chillie Chats With Captain Mick, Active Disabled Americans https://youtu.be/B3g17D8Tv6Y Chillie Chats With Ashley Lyn Olson, WheelchairTraveling.com https://youtu.be/N4kCil4xT3M Chillie Chats With Kelly McDaniel About the MS Rotterdam https://youtu.be/cHw2BpO7J4M Chillie Chats With Jordan Taylor, of JJ Cruise https://youtu.be/O5Khw0avcTQ Chillie Chats With Coleen McDaniel, Cruise Critic's Editor-In-Chief https://youtu.be/5mbjRqNcRXk Chillie Chats With Cruise Critic's Adam Coulter from Norwegian jade https://youtu.be/NVEPLIQ-tH0 Chillie Chats with Jeannine Williamson about MSC Seashore https://youtu.be/aZsNm7ElQYE Chillie Chats With Shelby Frenette about TA Training https://youtu.be/OhBRwS5Hp1M Chillie Chats With Cruise Buoys LIVE From Marseilles https://youtu.be/F3K_8W0p5eY Chillie Chats with Author Ivan Cox a/k/a Dr. Gerald Yukevich, The Cruise Ship Doctor, https://youtu.be/juZmIuYv-IU Chillie Chats With Bubba Shumard On CDC, RCCL and HAL https://youtu.be/UtFrYjOVkXk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep 99 OverviewIn Episode 99, Chris answers a listener question regarding the ss Rotterdam, the fifth Holland America Line ship to bear the name of its home city, now a floating hotel and museum in Rotterdam. PLUS we round out the show with the latest news from Cunard, Holland America Line, Carnival, Ponant, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Azamara, Fred. Olsen and Quark Expeditions.Support the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhListener QuestionsSteve in Auckland asks Chris about the ss Rotterdam (5th Rotterdam ship for Holland America Line), asking if she is now a hotel in Rotterdam?  ss Rotterdam, Rotterdam: https://ssrotterdam.com/Hotel New York, Rotterdam: https://hotelnewyork.com/hotel-new-york/history/Image Credit: ss Rotterdam. Wikimedia, cc-by-2.0Cruise NewsThree queens in OzCunard has revealed that all three of its Queens will be visiting Australia during its newly unveiled 2023/24 itineraries.The bulk of local sailings will be undertaken by Queen Elizabeth, which will homeport Down Under for 105 days between 27 Nov 2023 and 10 Mar 2024. Elizabeth's highlights will include a series of short roundtrip voyages from Melbourne and Sydney, new Queensland voyages from Sydney to Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Cairns and Port Douglas, as well as an inaugural South Pacific voyage from Sydney.Meanwhile Queen Mary 2 will stop by Australia during its 108-day World Voyage on 17 Feb 2024, while Queen Victoria will do similarly on her global voyage, calling in Sydney on 03 Mar 2024.Queen Elizabeth's 105-day homeport season Down UnderExtended explorations of Australia and New Zealand await guests sailing on Queen Elizabeth in 2023 and 2024. The luxurious ship is starting her Australian residency with a 6-night voyage from Fremantle on 27 November 2023 before embarking on a series of short break and roundtrip voyages from Melbourne and Sydney totalling 47 ports of call. Some of the highlights of Queen Elizabeth's season include an all-new 10-night exploration of Queensland's incredibly magnificent coast and islands, the ship's inaugural 14-night roundtrip calling into exotic ports of the South Pacific, and Cunard's highly sought-after Christmas and New Year voyage to New Zealand. Queen Elizabeth then departs Sydney en-route to Japan on 10 March 2024 finishing her 105-day homeport season Down Under.Season highlights:All new Queensland voyages from Sydney to Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Cairns and Port DouglasInaugural South Pacific roundtrip voyage from Sydney, including Isles of Pines (New Caledonia), Lautoka (Fiji), Suva (Fiji), Port Vila (Vanuatu), Luganville (Vanuatu), Noumea (New Caledonia)Queen Elizabeth's popular Christmas Voyage to New Zealand spending NYE in AucklandExploration of the Sapphire Coast with a port call in EdenOvernight port calls in Hobart, Wellington and AucklandQueen Anne's maiden voyageQueen Anne is scheduled to call at more than 32 ports across the world during her maiden season, all sailing out of Southampton. Following her maiden voyage to the enchanting city of Lisbon, the newest Queen will embark on a collection of enticing sailings in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Northern Europe as well as an Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing.Holland America Line Adds a Season of New Cruises to AustraliaIn anticipation of the ports in Australia and New Zealand fully welcoming cruise ships back to their shores, Holland America Line opened bookings for a season of new itineraries aboard Westerdam starting in fall 2022. The new voyages, offered from Sept. 25, 2022, through March 13, 2023, explore Australia's rich culture, the lush landscapes of New Zealand and the enchanting history and culture of Southeast Asia. Two new cruises conclude the Alaska season and reposition the ship Down Under from North America. Itineraries in Australia and New Zealand sail roundtrip from Sydney, Australia, or between Sydney and Auckland, New Zealand, and include scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park. A special Holiday Cruise departing Dec. 20 celebrates the New Year exploring New Zealand.Highlights of the new itineraries:Nov. 8: 15 days, roundtrip from Sydney. Ports include Port Chalmers (Dunedin), Lyttelton (Christchurch), Kaikoura, Wellington, Napier, Gisborne, Tauranga (Rotorua), Auckland and Waitangi, all in New Zealand, with scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park.Nov. 23: 13 days, roundtrip from Sydney. Ports include Eden, Port Arthur, Hobart (overnight), Adelaide (overnight), Penneshaw, Melbourne and Phillip Island, all in Australia.Dec. 6: 14 days, Sydney to Auckland. Australian ports include Melbourne and Hobart; New Zealand ports include Port Chalmers (Dunedin), Lyttelton (Christchurch), Kaikoura, Wellington, Napier and Tauranga (Rotorua), with scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park.Dec. 20 Holiday Cruise: 14 days, Auckland to Sydney. Ports include Tauranga (Rotorua), Napier, Kaikoura, Lyttelton (Christchurch), Port Chalmers (Dunedin), Hobart and Melbourne, with scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park.Jan. 3: 16 days, Sydney to Singapore. Ports include Newcastle, Airlie Beach, Cairns and Darwin, Australia; Komodo Island, home to the infamous Komodo Dragon; and Lembar, Lombok, and Benoa, Bali, both in Indonesia. A highlight of this voyage is two days spent scenic cruising in Australia's Great Barrier Reef where guests can marvel in the coral cays and sun-soaked islands above the surface, along with the thousands of reef systems below water.Feb. 3: 11 days, roundtrip Singapore. Ports include Phuket, Thailand (overnight); Port Blair, Andaman Islands, India; and the Malaysian ports of Porto Malai, Langkawi; Georgetown, Penang; Malacca and Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur).Feb. 14: 13 days, roundtrip Singapore. Ports include Tanjung Priok (Jakarta), Probolinggo, Surabaya and Semarang (Borobudur), on Java, in Indonesia; Komodo Island; Benoa and Celukan on Bali; ending with an overnight at Singapore.Feb. 27: 14 days, Singapore to Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan. Ports include Puerto Princesa, Boracay and Manila, Philippines; Kaohsiung and Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan; and Ishigaki, Naha and Kochi, Japan.Book Back-to-Back Cruises with a Collectors' VoyageRanging from 24 to 51 days, Collectors' Voyages are perfect for avid explorers seeking a more extensive cruise experience. The voyages combine back-to-back, nonrepeating itineraries and represent the best per-day value for guests.Carnival Cruise Line Announces First Sailing Out of AustraliaIn exciting news for cruise fans, Carnival Cruise Line today announced its first cruise back in Australian waters in over two years, with the cruise on sale now.Departing from Sydney on 02 October 2022, guests on board will have the opportunity to reacquaint themselves with the fabulous Carnival Splendor on this three-day getaway cruise.With over 45 onboard activities to explore including the exhilarating Green-Lightning thrill-slide, family-friendly shows, delicious dining experiences and more, Carnival Splendor's first Australian cruise in over 930 days is the perfect sampler to reignite your love for cruising.Carnival celebrates the restart of its entire fleet With the departure of Carnival Splendor from the Port of Seattle today, Carnival Cruise Line celebrates the restart of its entire fleet of ships and Carnival becomes the first major cruise line in the U.S. to achieve that milestone.Carnival Splendor is the 23rd and final Carnival ship to welcome guests back on board after Carnival's resumption of cruising from the U.S. last July.  Guests are set to depart from Seattle, Wash. today on an eight-day Alaska cruise, completing an impressive and successful restart of guest operations and setting the pace for the rest of the U.S. cruise industry. Carnival Splendor's summer itineraries to Alaska are part of a three-ship deployment, along with Carnival Spirit from Seattle and Carnival Miracle from San Francisco – the largest-ever cruise program Carnival has sailed to Alaska.Le Ponant to cruise Kimberley in 2023Ponant has announced the Australian debut of its iconic three-masted ultra luxury yacht Le Ponant (pictured), which will cruise the Kimberley region next year.New bespoke itineraries will showcase the region's stunning beauty aboard the sailing yacht, which has capacity for just 32 passengers after a major refit which has doubled the size of its staterooms.Exclusive features include a private scenic flight aboard one of Paspaley's vintage Gurmman Mallard flying boats to take guests to or from their embarkation point, as well as access to Paspaley's pearl operations in Kuri Bay.The deployment will see Le Ponant operating in the Kimberley alongside two of her fleetmates, with Le Laperouse and Le Soleal to also return for next year's Kimberley season.Bookings will open later this month for the season, which will operate between Apr and Oct 2023 along with a curated complementary selection of pre- and post-cruise land arrangements featuring upmarket accommodation in Western Australia, such as El Questro Station, Berkeley River Lodge, and more. Three Additional Princess Cruises Ships Return to ServiceThree additional Princess Cruises ships are returning to service welcoming guests back onboard – Crown Princess, Island Princess and Royal Princess. This milestone marks a total of 12 ships, 80 percent of the fleet, that will have resumed cruising since July 2021, for the world's leading international cruise line.Island Princess departed Ft. Lauderdale on April 27 on a Panama Canal cruise; Royal Princess sailed from Vancouver on May 2 for the popular “Voyage of the Glaciers” Alaska season; and Crown Princess is scheduled to depart Seattle on May 7 for a summer program of Inside Passage Alaska cruises.Island Princess – Panama Canal – Departed Ft. Lauderdale on April 27Celebrating the 55th anniversary of the cruise line sailing to the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, Island Princess departed on a 14-day Ocean-to-Ocean Panama Canal voyage from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles on April 27, and will return on a subsequent voyage from Los Angeles to Ft. Lauderdale on May 11. Princess first sailed to the Panama Canal in 1967 aboard Princess Italia. Island Princess will then depart Ft. Lauderdale for Europe, sailing various British Isles, Northern Europe (including Iceland and the Arctic Circle) and Mediterranean voyages.Royal Princess – Alaska – Departed Vancouver on May 2Sailing on the cruise line's top-rated “Voyage of the Glaciers” itinerary, Royal Princess departs on back-to-back northbound and southbound cruises from Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage). Every sailing includes two days of glacier viewing featuring Glacier Bay National Park, plus Hubbard Glacier (southbound) or College Fjord (northbound). Port visits include Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. These cruises can also be combined with one of the cruise line's 20 cruisetour options featuring an unforgettable land tour visiting the magnificent Denali National Park and Princess Wilderness Lodges.Crown Princess – Alaska – Scheduled to Sail from Seattle on May 7Departing on Saturdays from Seattle, Crown Princess is scheduled to depart on 19, seven-day Inside Passage voyages to Alaska through September 10, 2022. She will then move to Los Angeles for a season of California Coast and Hawaii sailings.Return to Service Schedule – All 15 Princess ShipsThe cruise line's fleet of 15 ships are currently sailing or are scheduled to return to service by September 2022.Wonder of the Seas arrives for European DebutThe world's newest wonder, Royal Caribbean International's Wonder of the Seas, arrived in Barcelona, Spain, to kick off a summer full of memorable holidays in Europe. The fifth in the cruise line's revolutionary Oasis Class line-up sets course for the Mediterranean on 7-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome beginning Sunday, 8th May. With a combination of brand-new thrills and signature favourites on board, Wonder is the getaway where holidaymakers of all ages can make memories as they sail to explore sought-after destinations such as Florence, Naples and Capri, Italy; Provence, France; and Malaga, Spain.Wonder's western Mediterranean sailings will continue through October, rounding out a summer splash in Europe with eight action-packed ships, including Odyssey of the Seas – also marking its first season in Europe. In November, Wonder will return to the U.S. to sail from its new year-round home in Port Canaveral, Florida, to explore the Caribbean and The Bahamas, including the cruise line's private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay.Azamara Onward Officially Joins Azamara Fleet Following Monte Carlo Naming CeremonyAzamara, an upmarket cruise line and leader in Destination Immersion® experiences, has officially added Azamara Onward to its now four-ship fleet today following a festive naming ceremony in Monte Carlo. The christening ceremony was led by the President of Azamara, Carol Cabezas, and Azamara Onward Godmother, Beth Santos, founder and CEO of global community and lifestyle brand Wanderful.On the embarkation day of Azamara Onward's maiden voyage, the ship's traditional christening ceremony was held shipside at the Port of Monte Carlo, attended by Azamara's loyal partners, with a warm welcome toast by Cruise Director Eric De Gray, musical performance by Chœur d'enfants, and blessings by Rabbi Howard Apothaker and Father John McCrone. Azamara President, Carol Cabezas and Godmother, Beth Santos, each delivered meaningful words to attendees followed by the Godmother's ceremonial bottle breaking tradition to close out the christening of Azamara Onward and to bring good fortune to the vessel in its future voyages.Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines unveils new hand-crafted program of cruising for 2023/24Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled its full program of cruising for 2023/24, with more than 100 hand-crafted sailings and the introduction of new Journey Navigators across its fleet of smaller ships.The new program includes opportunities to witness Norway's famous Langfoss Waterfall in the spring, when the water is at its heaviest, explore the remote islands of the Azores, and visit Lapland in the summer months.Durations range from two to 93-nights, with regional departures from Liverpool, Newcastle, Rosyth, Southampton, Dover, London Tilbury and Belfast. In addition, the program features the return of a fly-cruise program, with Braemar to be based in the Caribbean for the winter months.Quark Expeditions Announces Start of its Arctic 2022 SeasonQuark Expeditions, launched its Arctic 2022 season on May 3, 2022, with a 7-day “Spitsbergen Highlights: Expedition in Brief” voyage. This much-awaited sailing also marked the inaugural Arctic voyage of Ultramarine, Quark Expeditons' game-changing new ship.Quark Expeditions' Arctic 2022 season features diverse regions, including Spitsbergen, Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic, on multiple small polar vessels.And moreJoin the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. 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Cruise News Today — May 3, 2022. Carnival Splendor resumed service on Monday, marking the return of Carnival's full fleet. Norwegian Cruise Line has relaunched the ‘Giving Joy' contest for teachers. Royal Caribbean set to triple its calls to St. Croix.  Cruise stocks were flat for CCL, RCL, and NCLH. 

Cruise News Today — April 22, 2022. MSC Seascape will be named in New York City.  Carnival Splendor arrived in Seattle ahead of her Alaska spring and summer season. Seven Seas Navigator stopped in Jacksonville on Thursday. Cruise line stocks were down from CCL, RCL, and NCLH. 

Episode 94Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.Support the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhSupport Chris in his walk from Cape to Cape: All donations support zero2hero empowering young people to deal with mental health.  https://donate.mycause.com.au/cause/263123?donateToMember=156839Listener questionsPierre in Singapore asks, do we know where the various ships of the Genting brands (Crystal, Dream and Star Cruises) are currently located? Below correct early April 2022.Star Cruises: SuperStar Aquarius – 1993 – approx. 1600 guests – Port Klang, MalaysiaSuperStar Gemini – 1992 – approx 1500 guests – Penang MalaysiaStar Pisces – 1991 – approx 1400 guests – Penang MalaysiaTaipan – 1989 – approx 60 guests – Penang, MalaysiaDream Cruises: World Dream – 2017 – approx. 3400 guests – was successfully sailing ex Singapore. Now Marina Bay, SingaporeExplorer Dream – 1999 – approx. 2,000 guests – Was sailing in Taiwan – Port Klang, Malaysia since March 2022.Genting Dream – 2016 approx. 3400 guests – operations paused in Hong Kong, Now Hong Kong AnchorageGlobal Dream – 2022 (not yet launched) – 75% complete – Wismar, GermanyCrystal Cruises: Crystal Endeavor – 2021 – approx. 200 guests – Gibraltar anchorageCrystal Serenity – 2003 – approx. 1000 guests – Freeport, The BahamasCrystal Symphony – 1995 – approx. 900 guests – Freeport, The BahamasCrystal Esprit – now National Geographic Islander ll operated by Lindblad in the Galapagos Islands (see cruise news). Crystal River: Crystal Mozart (2016) – Linz. AustriaCrystal Bach (2017), Debussy (2018), Mahler (2017), Ravel (2018) – between Nijmegen and Rotterdam, NetherlandsCruise NewsPacific Explorer to arrive in Sydney on 18 April 22In keeping with Sydney Harbour's rich maritime heritage, on April 18, P&O Cruises Australia's flagship Pacific Explorer will return home to lead the restart of cruising in Australia.Pacific Explorer's arrival after an absence of more than two years will be embraced by cruise suppliers as a sign that their businesses and livelihoods will soon be in recovery mode with the resumption of cruising based on comprehensive protocols to support its return.The P&O Cruises Australia flagship's arrival is also expected to capture the imagination of Sydneysiders as it enters the Heads on Easter Monday in returning to its home port.The Easter Monday holiday arrival will give the city's ‘boaties' an opportunity to escort Pacific Explorer as the ship makes its way up the harbour to the Overseas Passenger Terminal (OPT) to be alongside at 10.30am.The approximate schedule for Pacific Explorer's arrival on April 18 is as follows:9.30am – Pacific Explorer enters Sydney Heads10.10am – Passing Fort Denison10.20am – Passing the Sydney Opera House10.30am – Alongside at the OPTFirst Cruise Ship Set to Return to Canada as Country Reopens Cruising After Two-Year AbsenceHolland America Line's Koningsdam Calls at Victoria and Vancouver April 9 and 10 with local governments holding celebratory eventsHolland America Line will be the first cruise line to return to Canadian cruising following a more than two year industrywide pause due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Koningsdam will call at Victoria, British Columbia, Saturday, April 9, restarting the cruise industry in Canada. The following day the ship will end its current seven-day cruise at Port of Vancouver, its homeport for the summer Alaska season.Koningsdam's call at Victoria marks 905 days since a cruise ship has visited the port, and it also will be a maiden call for the ship. To mark the milestones, Antorcha and local government officials will be on hand in both Victoria and Vancouver to celebrate the return to Canadian cruising and address the importance Canada and Alaska to Holland America Line.In 2022, six Holland America Line ships will call at Victoria and Vancouver for the Alaska cruise season. In total, the six ships will make 45 calls at Victoria and bring nearly 75,000 guests to the port, and 76 cruises begin or end at Vancouver, welcoming approximately 140,000 guests.For Canada and New England cruising on the East Coast, two ships return in May and cruise between Boston, Massachusetts, and Quebec City or Montreal, Quebec. Nieuw Statendam and Zaandam offer itineraries ranging from seven to 24 days to more than 12 Canadian ports.In total for 2022, Holland America Line operates 141 cruises on eight ships in Canada with more than 250,000 guests visiting both coasts. Royal Caribbean partners with Queensland Theme ParksRoyal Caribbean and Village Roadshow Theme Parks Create Ultimate Queensland GetawayTwo of the biggest icons in family adventure have come together to create the ultimate end-to-end Queensland getaway. Royal Caribbean International has teamed up with Village Roadshow Theme Parks to offer guests sailing from Brisbane on Quantum of the Seas access to exclusive accommodation and attraction packages, combining two amazing family experiences into one holiday with plenty of added perks.Making it easy to plan a holiday that combines the best of land and sea, the new, exclusive partnership welcomes Royal Caribbean holidaymakers to enjoy unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet'n'Wild and Paradise Country, and a 15% discount on accommodation at Australia's only theme park resort, Sea World Resort with additional inclusions for the whole family, making it easy to plan a holiday combining the best of land and sea.Royal Caribbean's highly anticipated launch in Queensland starts this summer with the ground-breaking Quantum sailing from the new Brisbane terminal from 9th November onwards. Packed full of adventure for the whole family and known for its innovation and countless industry ‘firsts,' including rock climbing, ice skating, sky diving and surfing at sea, Royal Caribbean will capture the imagination of families and adventurous holidaymakers alike.Royal Caribbean celebrates keel laying of Icon of the Seas The building of Royal Caribbean International's highly anticipated cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, has reached a pivotal milestone ahead of its fall 2023 debut. A keel-laying ceremony took place at Finnish shipyard Meyer Turku to officially mark the start of the revolutionary ship's physical construction, with Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku senior executives and teams in attendance.The keel laying, a longstanding maritime tradition, involved a 3,000-ton crane lifting a massive steel block that is placed into the new ship's building dock and on top of freshly minted coins, which represent the shipyard and cruise line. The coins are meant to bring luck during construction, and they will be retrieved and given to Icon's captain and crew before setting sail.Icon will set sail next year with the latest innovations and signature features Royal Caribbean's teams have imagined and reimagined in bold, new ways, including a shift toward cleaner energy. The first of three Royal Caribbean ships will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) – the cleanest fossil fuel available to cruise ships today. Combining LNG with a lineup of the cruise line's proven applications, such as shore power connection and waste heat recovery systems that repurpose excess energy to help power the ship's operations, Icon will be the next important step in Royal Caribbean's journey toward a clean-energy future.Signed, sealed, delivered… Celebrity Beyond. Celebrity Cruises' President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo honoured the thousands of engineers, architects, designers, contractors, shipyard employees and Celebrity Cruises teams as the brand took delivery of Celebrity Beyond, the third and most luxurious ship in the fleet's new-luxury Edge Series®, and a true game changer for the travel industry. The moment was particularly special as it marked the shipyard's first physical delivery ceremony since the pandemic.Designed to give guests endless opportunities to disconnect from the world — while simultaneously reconnecting with the world that surrounds them — Celebrity Beyond goes further than imagined possible for a cruise ship, creating a new world of wonder and approachable luxury.  With forward-thinking design by the world's leading architects and interior designers, culinary excellence from Michelin starred chefs, world renowned wellbeing partners, exquisite art, luxury brand retailers and Celebrity's uniquely intuitive service, Celebrity Beyond shatters every preconceived notion of the cruising experience. A floating boutique hotel, Celebrity Beyond exemplifies new-luxury travel and its future at sea. As part of the historic moment, Lutoff-Perlo was joined by Royal Caribbean Group's President and CEO Jason Liberty and the ship's captain, Kate McCue, as they officially took ownership from the shipyard and completed the traditional changing of the flags, hosting a celebratory ceremony onboard Celebrity Beyond while docked in the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The momentous occasion was celebrated alongside other Celebrity Cruises executives, shipyard officials including General Manager Laurent Castaing, and Beyond's 1,400 crew members from over 60 different countries.Celebrity Beyond's maiden voyage will depart on 27 April, 2022, from Southampton, England, for a 10-night Western Europe cruise visiting Bordeaux, France; Lisbon, Portugal; and Seville, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona, Spain.She will then offer a variety of Mediterranean journeys including nine-night Italian Riviera and France itineraries and 10-night Greek Isles itineraries through early October, when she then heads to the Caribbean. Voyages are on sale now.Kristina Vogel christens AIDAcosma in HamburgUnder the motto “The world is becoming more colourful”, AIDAcosma was christened on April 9, 2022, as part of a colourful music and light show in the Port of Hamburg. The godmother of AIDA Cruises' second LNG cruise ship is the eleven-time world champion in track cycling, Kristina Vogel.Accompanied by Captain Vincent Cofalka, Kristina Vogel lit up a colorful globe on the Ocean Deck of AIDAcosma at 9:55 p.m. At the same time, the baptismal bottle smashed against the hull of the ship.Cruise fans across Germany followed the christening live on the internet, on the AIDA YouTube channel and on board all AIDA ships.As part of the naming ceremony, a spectacular light show not only illuminated the newest member of the AIDA fleet. Visible from afar, the evening sky over the Hanseatic city turned into a sea of bright colours.At around 11:30 p.m., AIDAcosma said goodbye to Hamburg with a light show from on board, which took place during the departure while passing the Hamburg Elbphilharmonie and the Landungsbrücken to Teufelsbrück. The two-week christening voyage will sail to Palma de Mallorca over the Easter holidays.From April 23 to October 29, 2022, AIDAcosma will be offering voyages from Palma (Mallorca) and Barcelona. Florence, Rome and Corsica are also on the program during the weeklong highlight cruise “Mediterranean Treasures”. From autumn 2022, AIDAcosma will set course for its sunny winter home in Dubai.NCL has announced it will sail into the MetaverseNorwegian Cruise Line,  announced it will sail into the Metaverse with the launch of the cruise industry's first collection of NFTs, adding to the Brand's legacy of pioneering firsts.NCL will offer a collection of six NFTs for auction and sale to celebrate the launch of the Company's cutting-edge Norwegian Prima Class on Wednesday, 13 April 2022, at 9 a.m. ET on NCL's soon to launch online NFT marketplace. The NFT art pieces were created by Manuel Di Rita, widely known as “Peeta,” the Italian artist who designed the hull art on the record-breaking Norwegian Prima and her sister vessel Norwegian Viva.The first of the six art pieces will be auctioned at the starting rate of USD$2,500, with the remaining NFTs sold for prices beginning at USD$250. The winner of the auction will be awarded a balcony stateroom on one of Norwegian Prima's inaugural US voyages, setting sail from NCL's beautiful new PortMiami terminal in Miami, Florida – the Cruise Capital of the World.Launching in August 2022, Norwegian Prima's Christening voyage will depart from Reykjavík, Iceland, and will feature a performance from the ship's newly announced godmother, global popstar Katy Perry. During her inaugural season, Norwegian Prima will offer voyages to Northern Europe from Amsterdam; and Copenhagen, Denmark beginning 3 September; and Caribbean itineraries from Galveston, Texas; and Miami and Orlando in Florida commencing from 27 October.NCL Kicks Off its Greatest Europe Season YetNorwegian Cruise Line (NCL), has kicked off its greatest Europe season yet with eight ships sailing to over 100 destinations from 10 different departure ports, including two ships never-before-seen in Europe: Norwegian Prima makes her global debut in Iceland in August, while Norwegian Escape sails Europe for the very first time, making NCL's one of the most modern fleets in the region.In Northern Europe, NCL will offer a selection of sailings ranging from 8- to 12-days with departures from Amsterdam, Copenhagen, London (Southampton) and Reykjavik aboard four ships – Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Star and Norwegian Prima – which will take the title of the first major cruise ship christened in the Icelandic capital when she debuts in August. World famous pop icon and “American Idol” judge Katy Perry will serve as the ship's godmother, fulfilling the longstanding maritime tradition of blessing and officially naming Norwegian Prima, the first of six vessels in the Prima Class, as well as performing during the christening ceremony in Reykjavik.Meanwhile in the Mediterranean, three innovative NCL ships – Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Star – will sail from Barcelona, Rome (Civitavecchia), Venice (Trieste) and Haifa, Israel, with sailings ranging in length from 5 to 12-days, many with no sea days ensuring guests enjoy maximum time on shore to immerse themselves fully within each and every destination.And in the Greek Isles, travellers can look forward to two ships (Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem) offering immersive roundtrip voyages of 7 to 9-nights from Athens (Piraeus), Venice (Trieste) and Rome (Civitavecchia). Each cruise visits an array of breath-taking island locales like Santorini and Mykonos, ancient Greek cities like Athens, as well as the opportunity to explore the Holy Land with calls to Haifa, Israel, and Istanbul, Turkey.MSC Cruises has opened sales for MSC EuribiaMSC Cruises has opened sales for MSC Euribia, the line's most environmentally advanced ship in its fleet and its second LNG-powered ship currently under construction at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in France, due to launch in June 2023. The ship will spend her inaugural season in Northern Europe from the German port of Kiel, offering guests incredible destinations to discover.MSC Euribia will offer seven-night itineraries sailing to the Norwegian Fjords with weekly departures from Kiel, Germany with calls including Copenhagen, Denmark; Hellesylt, Norway for the Geirangerfjord; as well as Alesund and Flaam, in Norway, among othersMSC Hull Design Winner RevealedMSC Euribia will strike a markedly different silhouette than her sister ships in the Meraviglia-Plus class, thanks to an exclusive artwork designed as a commitment by MSC Cruises to the sea. The line held an international design competition through Talent House to create a unique artwork for the ship's hull, inspired by the sea and its important marine ecosystem. The design will be featured permanently on the ship's hull, highlighting the steps that the Company is taking towards a greener future.Designs from 59 countries worldwide were submitted and the winner, German artist Alex Flaemig has been revealed. Flaemig will have the honour of his artwork gracing the ship's exterior, shining a light on the Company's ongoing commitment to the environment and the pledge to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 2050.Flaemig, a native of Dresden, Germany was inspired by the opportunity to transform the hull of MSC Euribia into a giant, floating canvas to highlight the importance of respect for the environment. His design #SaveTheSea, the design features the unique underwater world with its precious life and weaves together the colours of the MSC Cruises and MSC Foundation logos, creating a gradient effect that paints sea fauna and flora across the hull.Carnival continues the celebrations… this time… the busiest week of sales ever! Carnival Cruise Line said today that the one-week period of March 28-April 3 was its busiest booking week in the company's history, showing a double-digit increase from the previous record 7-day booking total.With 22 of its 23 ships back in guest operations across all its year-round U.S. homeports, Carnival has led the industry in terms of restart and customer demand. Its final ship, Carnival Splendor, will return to service from Seattle on May 2, and then Carnival will welcome its newest ship, Carnival Celebration, to PortMiami in November. By year-end 2022, Carnival will have more capacity sailing (as measured by ALBDs – available lower berth days) than it was sailing in 2019. And then in 2023, Carnival will put into service another new Excel-class ship, Carnival Jubilee from Galveston.Cunard celebrates the Life and Career of beloved actress and philanthropist Betty WhiteCunard announced today that the company will once again partner with Julien's Auctions, the world-record breaking auction house to the stars, on an exhibition preview of the Property from the life and career of Betty White. White passed away on December 31, 2021 at the age of 99 years old in Los Angeles.Betty White epitomized warmth, grace and class, and our guests are keen to learn about the life of this beloved iconDuring the August 5th Transatlantic Crossing aboard flagship Queen Mary 2, guests will enjoy a sneak-peek preview of the auction's highlights, and have the special opportunity to bid on select items prior to the official three-day auction event on Friday, September 23rd, Saturday, September 24th and Sunday, September 25th, 2022 at Julien's Auctions in Beverly Hills.The auction and exhibition will be an exclusive presentation and celebration of the legendary actress and cultural icon's extraordinary life and eight decade spanning career.On offer is an exclusive collection of over 1,500 lots featuring the Hollywood icon's awards, scripts, wardrobe and memorabilia from her iconic television shows and films, as well as furnishings, artwork, fine jewelry, household and personal items from her beloved homes in Brentwood and Carmel, California.“We are delighted to once again collaborate on a Transatlantic Crossing with our longtime partner, Julien's Auctions, and privileged to bring our guests such a special enrichment opportunity,” said Jamie Paiko, vice president of Sales for Cunard North America. “Betty White epitomized warmth, grace and class, and we know our guests will be keen to learn more about the illustrious life of this beloved icon.”During the seven-night Transatlantic Crossing, guests will enjoy:A daily, rotating exhibit of the Property from the Estate of Betty White CollectionQ&A with Darren Julien, President/CEO of Julien's Auctions and Martin Nolan, Executive Director of Julien's AuctionsCosta Cruises restarts from Genoa with Costa Firenze Costa Firenze made her debut in Genoa, inaugurating the restart of Costa's cruises from the city.In 2022 the Italian company, which started cruising in July last year, will call at Genoa every Thursday until the end of November 2022, for a one-week Western Mediterranean itinerary, which also includes Marseille, Barcelona, Cagliari, Palermo and Civitavecchia/Rome. In addition to Costa Firenze, from November 13th until the end of the year, Costa Luminosa will also be in Genoa every Sunday, again for one-week cruises in the Western Mediterranean. In 2022 Costa will be in Genoa for a total of 45 calls, after only a few calls in 2021 and 2020 due to the Covid emergency. In 2023 Costa expects a further growth of her presence in Genoa, thanks to the arrival, every Friday from April to November, of Costa Toscana, the new Liquefied Natural Gas-powered ship of the fleet.Costa Firenze, built at Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera and dedicated to the Florentine Renaissance, is a 135,000-ton ship with 2,136 guest cabins. With 13 different restaurants and 8 bars, the food and wine offer is among the widest in the fleet. There are plenty of outdoor spaces to fully enjoy the sailing experience. Families with children will be able to choose between different activities to do on board, including a water park and an adventure park, and couples will find a private spa, swimming pools and various spaces to enjoy a moment of privacy. The offer of excursions available has been redesigned to explore hidden and less frequented gems, and to enjoy the most authentic traditions, flavours and colours.Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines unveils 93-night ‘Intrepid Beauty of Africa and Indian OceanAdventurers will have the chance to seek out lemurs in Madagascar, spend time with a Dabbawala in Mumbai and walk the dunes of the Namibian desert aboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' brand new Grand Voyage in 2023.The cruise, which will set sail from Southampton in November 2023, has been hand-crafted by Fred. Olsen Jnr himself alongside his team of dedicated Journey Planners, and takes in well-known destinations from Mumbai in India to Victoria in Seychelles, as well as discoveries away from the well-sailed routes, including to São Tomé and Zanzibar.Guests will enjoy plenty of time to explore ashore in each of the destinations, including overnight stays in Victoria, Seychelles and Mombasa, Kenya, a two-night stay in Port Louis, Mauritius, plus a three-night extended stay in Cape Town, South Africa, where historical sites such as Signal Hill and Robben Island await.Bolette's 93-night T2330 ‘The Intrepid Beauty of Africa and the Indian Ocean' cruiseDeparting from Southampton on 19th November 2023. Itinerary: Southampton, England – Tangier, Morocco – Valletta, Malta – Alexandria, Egypt – Port Said, Egypt – Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt – Safaga, Egypt – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Salalah, Oman – Mumbai, India – Mormugao, India – Mangalore, India – Kochi, Kerala, India – Uligamu, Maldives – Hithadhoo, Maldives – Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles (overnight stay) – Praslin Island, Seychelles – La Digue, Seychelles – Mombasa, Kenya (overnight stay) – Zanzibar, Tanzania – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Mamoudzou, Mayotte – Andoany, Nosy Be, Madagascar – Antsiranana, Madagascar – Port Réunion, Réunion Island – Port Louis, Mauritius (two-night stay) – Toamasina (Tamatave), Madagascar – Port d-Ehoala, Fort-Dauphin, Madagascar – Maputo, Mozambique – Richards Bay, South Africa – Durban, South Africa – East London, South Africa – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), South Africa – Mossel Bay, South Africa – Cape Town, South Africa (three-night stay) – Walvis Bay, Namibia – São Tomé, São Tomé & Príncipe – Cotonou, Benin – Lomé, Togo – Takoradi, Ghana – Dakar, Senegal – Santa Cruz, Tenerife – Funchal, Madeira – Southampton, EnglandSaga launches 2023 ocean cruises itinerariesSaga Cruises has today officially launched its 2023 ocean cruise itineraries with a host of new destinations, ports and experiences for guestsTravellers can experience a 78-night South American cruise and Saga's boutique ships will also be visiting some special and unusual destinations including Montserrat, St Barts, Grytviken, Antalya, Limassol, the Scilly Isles and Bordeaux. New ports for the cruise line also include Rovinj, on the Croatian cruise itinerary and Nordfjordeid, on the Norwegian cruise schedules.Saga's 2023 ocean cruising will kick off in style with a 78-night South American itinerary departing from Portsmouth on Spirit of Adventure on January 12. The epic South American Explorer cruise will travel around the vast coastline calling at destinations such as Devil's Island in Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Colombia, the Chilean Fjords, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, and the Panama Canal transitOther sailings of interest:30-night Springtime in the Caribbean cruise departing Portsmouth on March 5, 2023Autumn Colours of New England cruise on Spirit of Discovery departing September 26, 2023 for 28-nightsGuests looking to test a short cruise or those interested in sailing the waters of the British Isles can select from: a five-night Capitals of the Emerald Isle itinerary departing on April 4 on Spirit of DiscoveryLandscapes of Greenland and Iceland cruise on Spirit of Discovery departing on June 29, 2023 for 17-nights18-night Classical Italy and the Western Mediterranean cruise departing from Dover on June 4, 2023Both Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery are small by today's ship standards, but clever design and a limit to the number of guests (up to 987) give a real feeling of space and comfort, plus all cabins have their own balconies facing onto the ocean.Although the ships are very distinctive from one another in décor and style, they both feature five restaurants, bars and a living room. Outdoors there is an observation deck, full wraparound promenade and terrace, pool, sports court and deck games. Entertainment and wellbeing facilities include The Playhouse (a 444-seat theatre with complete unobstructed views seating, home to Saga Cruise's resident performance company), the signature Britannia Lounge with a dance floor and live entertainment, The Library with refreshments, craft and card rooms, The Spa with hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam and treatment rooms, The Salon, a gym, shop and medical centre.Oscar-winning French Director Luc Jacquet film shoot on Le Commandant CharcotLast November, PONANTs Le Commandant Charcot, the world's first luxury polar exploration hybrid-electric vessel powered by Liquified Natural Gas, set sail from Punta Arenas on her maiden cruise to the Antarctic. On board was a particularly enthusiastic guest: Luc Jacquet. It was an opportunity for the French filmmaker and his team to capture more images and emotions in the very heart of the White Continent.A world-renowned filmmaker, Luc Jacquet has directed numerous feature films and documentaries, including the Oscar-winning March of the Penguins. Strikingly beautiful, his cultural works have helped reconnect humankind with Nature, a philosophy shared by PONANT which raises guests' awareness, through its expeditions to remote regions, of how vital it is to protect the environment. During Le Commandant Charcot's first Antarctic expedition in November 2021, Luc Jacquet welcomed the chance to share his experiences and passion for the polar world with guests.Luc Jacquet and his team were on Le Commandant Charcot to capture images of the polar regions for his new film project Continent Magnétique (Magnetic Continent), and his next immersive exhibition entitled Sur les traces de l'Empereur (On the tracks of the Emperor Penguin).Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Unveils the New National Geographic Islander IIAll-Suite 48-Guest Expedition Ship to Launch in the Galápagos Islands in 2022Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has unveiled the newest addition to their award-winning fleet, National Geographic Islander ll. With just 48 guests, and the spirit and soul of a private yacht, the all-suite ship will make her inaugural voyage in the Galápagos on August 18, 2022 for year-round expeditions in the islands.Formerly the Crystal Esprit, the sleek and elegant National Geographic Islander ll's top-to-bottom refit will elevate the guest experience to an entirely new level. Travelers will find encircling teak decks that gracefully connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, a well-outfitted observation deck, indoor-outdoor dining options, 26 light and airy suites, and new expedition amenities including a marina and Science Hub.Elegantly appointed, each of the 26 suites feature large windows, convertible king/twin beds, sofa, marble double-sink bathrooms, stocked mini-bar, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV and ample closets. The four Islander Suites, three of them brand new, have four windows, separate living rooms and bathrooms outfitted with a tub and rain shower. Connecting suites are available, plus four dedicated solo suites and triple options. The Santa Cruz Islander Suite can be reserved as a family suite with a connecting double suite.The National Geographic Islander II is a true ocean-going vessel, 280 feet long, 46 feet wide, and is equipped with stabilizers for smooth sailing. The refit of the ship for Galápagos includes key environmental and fuel-efficient upgrades like reduced outdoor lighting, special paint, and recycled water from new air conditioning systems.SH Diana is name of Swan Hellenic's third and largest bespoke expedition cruise shipCultural expedition cruise pioneer reveals name while reporting strong progress on construction of third next-generation shipSwan Hellenic announced that construction of its third and largest next-generation ship was proceeding smoothly at Helsinki Shipyard, with more than half the structure already assembled and all but two blocks now delivered. Crowning the announcement was news revealing her name – SH Diana – in the classic Swan Hellenic tradition.The elegant new ship is a next-generation polar expedition vessel, designed for worldwide cruising with a strong focus on high-latitude areas. SH Diana will feature a 4.6-megawatt diesel-electric hybrid-ready propulsion system with selective catalytic reduction and PC 6 ice-strengthened hull that is fully Safe Return to Port certified. Although the largest ship in the Swan Hellenic fleet, the 125 m long, 12,100 GRT expedition vessel has been specially designed for worldwide cruising to explore the most inspiring and inaccessible places on earth.Providing panoramic 5-star accommodation for 192 guests in 96 spacious staterooms and suites, the vast majority with large balconies, SH Diana will be operated by an onboard team of 141 to provide exceptional personal service. Cutting edge hygiene technology will protect the health of all on board to the highest standards and includes air conditioning with UV sanitisation systems.Designed for immersive experiences and extensive open views, the on-board amenities include a swimming pool, spa, panoramic sauna, gym, library, expedition laboratory and observation lounge for lectures by seasoned expedition leaders and leading experts from a wide range of disciplines. World-class gourmet cuisine, local specialities and healthy dining will be offered in the panoramic restaurant, club lounge and pool bar, as well as through full room service.In addition, SH Diana builds on the outstanding facilities of her sister ships, offering a dedicated Multifunctional Room next to the Observation Lounge, a Private Dining Room for special occasions, more suites and 2 tenders, which bring guests a comfortable alternative to Zodiacs for expedition landings. Expedition day trips are a central feature of the programmes that will be offered, along with kayaking, trekking and other activities.Aptly named after the Ancient Roman goddess of light, the moon, hunting and the wilderness, SH Diana will take Swan Hellenic back to its roots when she launches in early 2023, exploring the Mediterranean and its famous sites of antiquity.A-ROSA celebrates 20th anniversaryOn 5 April 2022, the A-ROSA Flussschiff GmbH will celebrate its 20th birthday. Exactly 20 years ago – on 5 April 2002 – the first two ships in the fleet were christened A-ROSA BELLA and A-ROSA DONNA in Rostock. A-ROSA celebrates the anniversary on board its ships with an A-ROSA United Event, where guests celebrate together with the crew until late at night.With the introduction of the A-ROSA brand, river cruises were offered for the first time to a younger clientele – detached from conventions, casual, active and full of highlights on board and ashore. The company has always remained true to this concept.Review of the christening of A-ROSA BELLA and A-ROSA DONNAAfter a construction period of only twelve months in the Neptun Yard Rostock, the two innovative river ships A-ROSA BELLA and A-ROSA DONNA received their official names during a double christening ceremony on 5th April 2002 in Rostock's city harbour.Godmother of A-ROSA BELLA was the 18-year-old The Honourable Anna Sterling, daughter of Lord Sterling of Plaistow, Chairman of P&O Princess Cruises. A-ROSA DONNA was christened by Anja Mager, 19 years old and an office management trainee with Seetours in Rostock.After an experience ship tour and reception in the coffee house on board, the guests were invited to the dinner “La BELLA DONNA” with live entertainment in the Nikolaikirche Rostock.Immediately after the christening, the two 860-ton ships left the Rostock overseas port expertly packed and secured on a barge for the Danube delta.History of A-ROSAThe A-ROSA brand was founded in 2000 by Seetours, the German offshoot of P&O Princess Cruises. Shortly after the deployment of the first two Danube ships, the company was taken over by Deutsche Seereederei in 2003 and the Danube fleet was expanded by two more ships. The Rhône was introduced as a new trade lane in 2005, on which A-ROSA STELLA and LUNA have been cruising ever since.In 2009, the first cruises on the Rhine started and the financial investor Waterland bought A-ROSA. After three classic Rhine ships, two Rhine-Main-Danube ships were put into service in 2012 and 2014 with the A-ROSA SILVA and FLORA. In 2013, Jörg Eichler came on board as managing director and introduced the premium all-inclusive fare and family cruises with Kids Club from 2014.With the Seine, the second French cruising area was added to the portfolio in 2017. After the takeover by the British financial investor Duke Street in 2018, the A-ROSA ALVA set sail on Portugal's Douro.In the 20th anniversary year of 2022, a total of twelve A-ROSA ships will be sailing in five European destinations. In May 2022, the A-ROSA SENA, the most innovative ship in the fleet, will join them, offering more space for the A-ROSA concept – spacious balcony cabins, a dedicated Family Area with Kids Club, several restaurants and bars as well as a particularly large wellness and fitness area. Thanks to a hybrid drive system with battery storage, it is the most climate-friendly cruise ship on Europe's rivers. A-ROSA also presented its new orientation from 2023, where even more quality and individuality will be offered with a PremiumPLUS range.And more... Join the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Support The ShowListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhSupport Chris in his walk from Cape to Cape: All donations support zero2hero empowering young people to deal with mental health.  https://donate.mycause.com.au/cause/263123?donateToMember=156839Cruise NewsHolland America Line Ship Will Become Temporary Home for Ukrainian Refugees in the NetherlandsHolland America Line's Volendam will be used to accommodate Ukrainian refugees as part of an agreement announced by Netherlands and City of Rotterdam government officials. The ship will dock in Rotterdam for three months to provide a temporary home for approximately 1,500 Ukrainians, part of a larger commitment from the Netherlands to accommodate 50,000 people who fled the war in their homeland.Under the agreement to charter Volendam, Holland America Line will provide three hot meals per day, private stateroom accommodations, housekeeping services, use of public spaces, fitness facilities, internet access, and other necessities. Volendam will be staffed with approximately 650 crew members.Volendam was scheduled to return to service May 15, with voyages from Rotterdam to Norway, the British Isles and Iceland. To accommodate the three-month commitment, Holland America Line will cancel three of those voyages and resume service on July 3 instead. Guests on canceled cruises are being notified today and will be accommodated on similar itineraries.Volendam will be docked at Merwehaven, a cargo port on the north side of the River Maas in Rotterdam. Remaining docked will ensure Ukrainian families can transit easily to and from services in Rotterdam.Holland America Group has already been working with its own team members who are Ukrainian. A $1 million emergency assistance fund provides direct financial support. Team members from the region also receive counseling assistance, free internet service to communicate with family, and scheduling accommodations such as early disembarkation or an extension to remain on board as needed.Costa Cruises is offering one of its cruise ships to house Ukrainian refugeesCosta Cruises is offering one of its cruise ships to house Ukrainian refugees fleeing the Russian invasion of their country. The company offered the cruise ship Costa Magica, which is currently out of service, to the Italian government as a potential hosing vessel for the Ukrainian refugees, if the number of refugees arriving in Italy increases in the coming weeksCosta Cruises added that the costs of managing the ship, including staff and meals, will be covered by the company in the initial time period.Costa Magica is a 102.587 gross tonnage ship with a capacity to accommodate up to 3.250 people. The ship is not in service and is currently located near La Spezia, Italy.In June 2021, Carnival Corporation announced that Costa Magica will be sent to dry dock to be rebranded and transferred over to Carnival Cruise Line sometime in mid-2022.Pacific Explorer bound for SydneyPacific Explorer departed the anchorage off Cyprus and is headed for home and that wonderful prospect of the first guest cruise from Sydney on May 31.P&O Cruises celebrates full return to serviceWhen Arcadia sailed to the Canary Islands on Sunday, 27 March, it will mark P&O Cruises full return to service following its pause in operations.Britannia and Azura have had a very successful season in the Caribbean from Barbados and will spend the summer in the Mediterranean. Iona has spent her maiden winter months in the Canary Islands and northern Europe and will soon head up to the spectacular Norwegian fjords for the summer of scenic cruising and thrilling adventures.Arvia will join P&O Cruises in December as the seventh ship in the fleet. The maiden voyage will be to The Canary Islands followed by a winter season of fly/cruise holidays in the Caribbean from Barbados. Arvia, which, similar to its sister ship Iona, will be powered by liquefied natural gas, will have many sustainable and environmentally-friendly innovations and technology on board.P&O Cruises Australia Celebrates its Return to the High Seas with a Sparkling Pride CruiseP&O Cruises Australia is celebrating its return to the high seas by counting down to its first dazzling ‘Pride Cruise' – a celebratory weekend at sea created especially for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, their friends, family and supporters.Setting sail on 4 November 2022, the three-night cruise will give Australians the chance to join P&O Cruises in proudly recognising individuality, diversity and inclusion in Australian society.The celebrations will continue with a Pride Cruise departing Melbourne on 9 December, followed by three dedicated sailings in 2023.Joining P&O Cruises in the new sailing will be a raft of community organisations that support the LGBTQIA+ community through health, well-being and social initiatives.The home-grown cruise line has also partnered with some of the best names in the Australian entertainment business to develop the three-night cruise, including talented artists and entertainers who are champions of equality.Headlining the fun with plenty of feathers, sequins and flamboyance, will be international superstar, accordionist and Berlin boy-wonder Hans the German, the award-winning comedy cabaret star who found fame on America's Got Talent.P&O Cruises Pacific Adventure will depart Sydney on the inaugural Pride Cruise on the afternoon of Friday November 4, 2022, and will return on the morning of Monday November 7, 2022.Carnival Cruise Line unveils bucket-list Transpacific Journeys CruiseCarnival Cruise Line has today unveiled the cruise of a lifetime, as Carnival Splendor returns home to Sydney in September via four incredible Hawaiian Island destinations on her Transpacific Journeys Cruise.The 23-night journey from Seattle to Sydney will offer guests ample opportunity to immerse themselves in the ‘Aloha Spirit', as the ship visits the tropical Hawaiian Island ports of Maui, Honolulu, Kona and Hilo ahead of heading to Fiji and Australia.Crossing the world's biggest ocean, Carnival Splendor will treat guests to the awe-inspiring views of the Pacific, before she makes her long-awaited return to Sydney.Splendor's arrival in the harbour city will kick-start Carnival's birthday celebrations early, with the cruise line celebrating 10 years in Australia in October.Carnival Splendor's 23-night cruise from Seattle to Sydney departing 6 September 2022 starts from $1799 AUD* per person twin share interiorSydney  White Bay Cruise Terminal to use shore power derived from certifiable renewable energy Australia's main cruise organisation, Carnival Australia, representing seven distinctive cruise lines including P&O Cruises Australia, has joined the Port Authority of NSW in signing a letter of intent for cruise ships using White Bay Cruise Terminal to connect to shore power derived from certifiable renewable energy.The Port Authority project to progressively install shore power infrastructure at the cruise terminal and each of the four major commercial berths at Glebe Island is an element of the NSW Government's Bays Precinct urban renewal project involving a 95-hectare site on Sydney Harbour's western fringe.Carnival Australia has embraced the shift to shore power at White Bay, demonstrating its local commitment to environmental protection. This is in line with being part of a global organisation that is committed to strong sustainability goals including achieving net carbon neutral ship operations by 2050.Silversea Christens Silver Dawn in Lisbon Silversea Cruises, the leading ultra-luxury cruise line, officially named its 10th ship, Silver Dawn, in Lisbon on 31 March. Executives from Royal Caribbean Group®, Silversea Cruises, and Fincantieri, as well as local dignitaries and esteemed guests, celebrated the milestone with a formal ceremony and gala dinner. An expression of Silversea's rapid expansion, Silver Dawn becomes the cruise line's third new ship to debut in nine months. The launch of Silver Dawn also marks the debut of Otium, travel's most indulgent new wellness programme, as well as the next iteration of Silversea's S.A.L.T. culinary programme.The newly named Godmother of Silver Dawn, Nilou Motamed—an influential food and travel editor, tastemaker, and television personality—subsequently cut the ribbon to trigger a champagne bottle to smash on the ship's hull, signalling the end of the ceremony.NILOU MOTAMED: GODMOTHER OF SILVER DAWNAn Emmy-nominated television personality and former editor-in-chief of some of the world's leading culinary brands, including Food & Wine and Epicurious, Nilou Motamed has been shaping the conversation in food and travel for more than 20 years. Born in Iran, raised in Paris and New York, Motamed is fluent in four languages — and believes “food is a language of its own, one in which everyone can find comfort, compassion, and community.” Her passion for culinary adventures and far-flung cuisines has found a perfect match in Silversea's S.A.L.T. programme, which the New York resident first experienced with its launch in 2021.Silver Dawn departs on her inaugural voyage on April 1, sailing from Lisbon to Barcelona. She is scheduled to sail in the Mediterranean until November, when she will cross the Atlantic Ocean, via the Canary Islands, to unlock the Caribbean and Central America for guests.Cunard reveal impressive line-up to join Matt Moran aboard its Great Australian Culinary VoyageAfter the well-received news that acclaimed Australian chef Matt Moran will be headlining Cunard's inaugural Great Australian Culinary Voyage, the luxury cruise line is thrilled to reveal the high calibre line-up of culinary talent onboard this highly sought after 5-night voyage, setting sail from Sydney on 28 January 2023.Both on board and on shore, Australia's culinary story will come to life for Queen Elizabeth's guests as they are treated to a robust itinerary of food and wine experiences including bespoke dinners, exclusive menus, talks, interviews, cooking masterclasses, wine tastings, and curated onshore excursions.Cunard's Great Australian Culinary Voyage talent line-up joining Matt Moran:Mark Olive has been a celebrated chef for over 30 years, establishing himself as an Australian food icon through his work with Australian indigenous and native ingredients. A Bundjalung Man, Mark's family originated from the Northern Rivers region in NSW. Mark will treat guests to a native Australian ingredient cooking demonstration, collaborate with Cunard's chefs to create a 3-course menu incorporating indigenous produce for a special dinner and participate in an engaging Q&A session.Darren Purchese, owner of cult favourite B&P Sweet Studio in Melbourne, is one of the most respected pastry chefs working in Australia today. Aboard Cunard's Great Australian Culinary Voyage, Darren will be putting his spin on Cunard's famous Afternoon Tea, creating unique pastries to feature on an exclusive menu, and giving a live cooking demonstration where guests can learn tips and tricks from one of Australia's most acclaimed pastry chefs.Terry Durack and Jill Dupleix, touted as Australia's most famous foodie couple, have masterfully mapped the last 30 years of Australian wining and dining as two of the industry's best food writers, restaurant critics and cookbook authors. For the sailing, Terry and Jill will be the expert hosts for talks, cooking demonstrations, Q&A sessions and a very special dinner for guests on board Queen Elizabeth between them.Huon Hooke is a leading Australian independent wine writer and critic, writing about wine since 1983. Huon will delight guests with his extensive knowledge of Australian and international wines through a wine masterclass, various talks and wine pairings at special dinners.No stranger to executing some of the industry's best themed event voyages, Cunard's inaugural Great Australian Culinary Voyage will be the first of its kind for the luxury cruise line, celebrating all aspects of Australia's unique food and wine landscape.Departing Sydney on 28 January 2023, the sailing takes in three of Australia's culinary hotspots, sailing to Melbourne and Burnie (Tasmania), before arriving back in Sydney on 2 February.Popular TV Game Show “Deal or No Deal” Comes to Life on New Discovery Princess StageOne of the world's most popular game shows, “Deal or No Deal,” is about to set sail onboard Discovery Princess℠, the newest cruise ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, debuting from Los Angeles on March 27, 2022. This live, hosted experience with high energy, and lots of onboard buzz offers contestants the chance to win prizes ranging from a free cruise to the grand prize of $1,000. “Deal or No Deal” is also available on Majestic Princess®, Regal Princess® and Sky Princess®, with plans to roll out across the fleet.In partnership with TimePlay, an award-winning entertainment company with a deep history of awakening audiences through interactive games, “Deal or No Deal” takes place on the Princess Theater stage of the new Discovery Princess during every voyage. This exhilarating experience offers contestants the chance to play and deal for cash or free cruises in a suspenseful contest of nerves and raw intuition. Guests can play along with their “case card” with a buy in ranging from US$25-$50, as well as be one of two contestants—selected at random—who play live on stage for a chance to win up to US$1,000. Guests in the audience who have purchased a game card are also working towards achieving eight matches to win up to US$1,000 or even a free cruise.Discovery Princess is homeporting in Port of Los Angeles and will sail on a series of Mexican Riviera and California Coast voyages from March 27 – April 24, 2022. She will then head up the Pacific coast to begin a season of seven-day Alaska cruises from Seattle, making her the newest ship sailing in the Alaska region.The Love Boat but not as you know itInspired by the Classic Hit Scripted Series “The Love Boat,” theNew Reality Romance Series Sets Sail on Princess Cruises in the U.S. and Australia in 2022U.S. network CBS and Australian broadcaster Network 10 jointly announced today they have ordered localized versions of THE REAL LOVE BOAT, a reality dating competition series inspired by “The Love Boat,” the hit 1970s scripted series that used Princess Cruises ships as its setting. Production begins summer 2022, and both versions are expected to air in the U.S. and Australia later this year.The “The Love Boat” IP is owned by CBS Studios which, along with CBS and Network 10, are Paramount Global brands.“‘The Love Boat' is a timeless, romantic concept with universal appeal, and we're excited to reimagine this popular series for audiences in two different countries,” said George Cheeks, president and chief executive officer of CBS, and head of global content strategy for Paramount's free-to-air networks, including Network 10. “On the heels of NCIS: SYDNEY, today's announcement is another example of our global franchise strategy to use our rich intellectual property and vast international footprint to develop new content for viewers around the world.”THE REAL LOVE BOAT brings singles together to cruise the Mediterranean on a luxury cruise ship while looking for love. Destination dates, challenges and surprise singles will test the couples' compatibility and chemistry. Like the beloved original scripted series, the indispensable crew members including “captain” and “cruise director” will play pivotal roles in the matchmaking and navigation of the romantic (and sometimes turbulent) waters ahead.After almost a month at sea, only one winning couple will make it to the final port and take home a cash prize plus a once-in-a-lifetime trip courtesy of Princess Cruises, the series' exclusive cruise line partner.CBS and Network 10 are casting for their local versions.Click HERE for CBS casting information.Click HERE for Network 10 casting information. The All-Inclusive Photo Project by Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Cruises is launching a bold new initiative to change the meaning of “all-inclusive” in the travel industry.Recognising the need to improve the representation of all people who travel in marketing materials, the new-luxury cruise line has created both a new campaign and the world's first free to use, ‘open source' travel image library. The campaign and collection –  ‘The All-Inclusive Photo Project' (AIPP) – aims to start a movement, calling on travel companies to help address the lack of diversity in travel marketing imagery.The stunning new images were unveiled today and feature the work of acclaimed photographers including: Annie Leibovitz; Giles Duley, an English documentary photographer and a triple amputee; Naima Green, a Black, queer New York-based photographer; and Jarrad Seng, an Australia-based photographer, filmmaker and creative director of Malaysian-Chinese descent.The collection features models, musicians, athletes, artists, advocates and activists, refugees and more, all change-makers in their own right from underrepresented groups, as they enjoy the varied offerings on Celebrity's ships and within the destinations visited.For more information on the photographers and talent featured in the AIPP campaign, consumers can visit www.celebritycruises.com/PhotoProject.Celebrity Cruises will make dozens of the images available via an open-source online library for other travel brands and companies to use to help kickstart their journeys towards more inclusive travel marketing.Disney Wish Reaches Key Milestone After Leaving Meyer Werft Shipyard for Open WaterThe Disney Wish reached another key milestone after nearly two years of construction, leaving the Meyer Werft shipyard on a journey to reach open water for the first time. When it sets sail this summer, the newest Disney Cruise Line ship will be filled with innovative new experiences steeped in Disney storytelling, including the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, immersive dining experiences themed to “Frozen” and Marvel, and a high-end lounge set in the Star Wars galaxy.Oceania Cruises Reveals NEW Solo StateroomsOceania Cruises, the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, announced the addition of dozens more dedicated staterooms for solo travellers along with the debut of the line's Go Green and Beyond Blueprints shore excursion concepts as part of its industry-leading OceaniaNEXT initiative.Each of the four ships will feature 14 Solo Oceanview Staterooms, which will debut aboard Regatta on 25 September 2022; Nautica on 26 September 2022; and Insignia and Sirena on 1 October 2022. With the addition of these 56 staterooms, plus those that debuted to a sell-out success on Vista last year, Oceania Cruises is reinforcing its commitment to solo travellers.The line also revealed two new shore excursion concepts – Go Green and Beyond Blueprints – to provide curious travellers with even more options for discovery, exploration, and personal connections with the destinations visited.Go Green Shore Excursions include:Bordeaux Wines and Sustainability: Bordeaux, FranceA Sloth Paradise – Give Back to Nature: Puntarenas, Costa RicaBeyond Blueprint Shore Excursions include:Beyond Blueprints: Copenhagen, Denmark, The Royal Library & The Blue PlanetBeyond Blueprints: Oslo, Norway, Equinor & MunchmuseetNorwegian Jewel returns to Service from Panama City Norwegian Cruise Line, has announced the return to service of Norwegian Jewel, which will be the Brand's first ship sailing from Panama City (Colón), Panama. The fully renovated Norwegian Jewel becomes the 13th vessel in the Company's 17-ship fleet to return to service offering immersive itineraries to Alaska from May through September before homeporting in Panama beginning 24 November 2022. The November voyages will mark the Brand's first time homeporting in the destination from either port – the Colón Cruise Terminal and Fuerte Amador Cruise Terminal in Panama City.Guests on Norwegian Jewel can enjoy numerous amenities including action-packed activities at the outdoor Sports Complex, high energy Zumba® and Flywheel Sports® classes, and multiple uniquely themed bars and lounges, including Bliss Ultra Lounge where guests can dance the night away. Norwegian Jewel, with a guest capacity of 2,376 (double occupancy), also offers some of the largest suites at sea with staterooms that accommodate every style and budget. The ship also offers a Haven Deluxe Owner's Suite that features the most luxurious, well-appointed accommodations on board, including a 24-hour butler service.Through the end of March 2023, Norwegian Jewel will offer a total of eight Panama Canal roundtrip cruises ranging from eight-to-10-day itineraries starting from Colón, the Caribbean side of Panama, and ending in Panama City (Fuerte Amador), the Pacific side of Panama, and vice versa. In addition, the vessel will offer a selection of 12-day open-jaw repositioning voyages that begin or end their sailings in Panama City (Colón), Panama.Coral Expeditions Kicks Off 2022 Kimberley SeasonCoral Expeditions, set sail on their first Western Australian voyages of the 2022 season. The occasion was marked with much excitement for guests and crew on both Coral Adventurer which departed Fremantle for Broome on a 12-night exploration of the Abrolhos and Coral Coast, and Coral Geographer which departed Broome on a 10-night Kimberley cruise. The fleet will be joined by Coral Discoverer in mid-April. This year, there are 50 planned expeditions in the Kimberley and Western Australia, hosting over 3000 guests between March and October, the highest number in the history of the company.Coral Expeditions pioneered small ship expeditions in the region and are renowned as the Kimberley experts with strong local roots, Australian-flagged ships specifically designed for the Kimberley environment and expedition crew with years of local experience.Through the pandemic, Coral Expeditions have operated over 105 successful domestic voyages and paved the way for the Australian cruise industry with their SailSAFE health protocols. Now, with the opening of the Western Australian borders and the entry of the company's cruise ships into the state, sustainable cruise tourism is poised to come back to the Kimberley. The classic Kimberley Cruise is a rite of passage for many who seek to connect with the unique landscapes and rich Indigenous heritage of this remote part of Australia.With the opening of Western Australia's borders and greater confidence in the travel industry, there has been unprecedented demand from Australian travellers for the Kimberley region in recent weeks. In response, Coral Expeditions have added additional capacity to their 2022 season, giving a rare opportunity for guests to secure last-minute berths. This week they have also published their refreshed 2023 rates and launched their full 2024 Kimberley season sailing schedule which is now open for bookings.Aqua Expeditions launch in Ecuador's enchanting Galapagos IslandsKnown for scouting some of the most unique and uncharted corners of the world to set sail, Aqua Expeditions is gearing up to launch their most opulent vessel to date in the breathtaking Galapagos Archipelago, 600 miles off the Ecuadorian coastline.Beginning operations on June 3rd, the stunning seven-suite Aqua Mare will be the first true superyacht to sail the Galapagos, offering guests the most luxurious seat in the house to experience the beauty of this pristine UNESCO World Heritage Site.One of the major drawcards of the Galapagos region is that it is a melting pot of diverse wildlife, flora and fauna, and remains one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world.As you meander through the islands and inlets aboard the elegant Aqua Mare, you'll get up close and personal with some of the rarest species found nowhere else on earth.Magnificent marine iguanas, rare waved Albatrosses, playful sea lions and gigantic sea tortoises are only a few of the vast number of species that guests will encounter.With Aqua Mare's eight-guests to one-naturalist guide ratio, guests receive the most comprehensive discovery of the archipelagos as they cruise through the Isles, taking in the wonders of the fascinating biodiversity with expert knowledge at hand.Guests can choose from 7- and 14-night itineraries that explore both the East and West of the islands, tailoring their experience to be as action-packed or laid-back as they like.Hong Kong reopens for transit travel to the rest of the worldFrom 1 April, transfer and transit services at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) resumes for all passengers flying via Hong Kong to all destinations. In addition, the Hong Kong SAR Government has lifted the flight ban from Australia, Canada, France, India, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, the United Kingdom and the United States into Hong Kong.If Hong Kong is your destination, eligibility to enter is open to fully vaccinated Hong Kong residents. The quarantine requirements for returning residents has also eased, with a negative PCR test required 48 hours prior to departure, and quarantine reduced to 7 days.Best April Fools Prank Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines unveils ‘Magical Music of The Beatles' world cruise from Liverpool in 2024Fred. Olsen has today unveiled a brand new world cruise for 2024 celebrating the magical music of The Beatles – including a specially-commissioned yellow submarine to offer tours to Australia's Great Barrier Reef.Fred. Olsen's Journey Planners have come together to hand-craft an itinerary that follows – as closely as possible – in the footsteps of The Beatles when they embarked on their 1964 World Tour, with a call into Copenhagen to mark 60 years since the opening night in the city.More than just day trippers, our guests will find ‘newspaper taxis' waiting ashore to take them on tours to many of the venues played by The Beatles during the famous tour. In addition, in Australia guests will be able to purchase a ticket to ride aboard Fred. Olsen's new submarine – of course, painted yellow and aptly named SS Penny Lane – to witness the Great Barrier Reef.On board, guests will find their very own Cavern Club where they can dance the night away to their favourite Beatles songs, and also a special ‘hill' out on deck – built from Norwegian wood from our homeland – where guests can sit and enjoy scenic sailings and sunsets.The cruise is a celebration of Fred. Olsen's long-standing links to Liverpool, with new ship Borealis homeporting from the city for another year in 2022. The ship will berth almost opposite the statue of the ‘Fab Four' at The Beatles Pier Head.And more... Join the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/ Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg   Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8 Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. 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Chris joins the show today to talk about the historical significance of the naming of the Cunard Queens, ahead of the announcements next week about Cunard's newest ship naming. And of course, we have the latest cruise news from around the world. Support the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhSupport Chris in his walk from Cape to Cape: All donations support zero2hero empowering young people to deal with mental health.  https://donate.mycause.com.au/cause/263123?donateToMember=156839Cruise NewsCarnival Australia ships re-deployed back to North America Both Australian ships will now be based in the United States, with Spirit to depart until late next year.Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled all Australian cruises until Oct, with the brand to also temporarily reposition Carnival Splendor to North America, joining fellow former Australian-based fleet-mate Carnival Spirit.Splendor's Australian sailings from 10 Jun to 26 Sep 2022 have been cancelled, while Carnival also announced Spirit's sailings from 05 Jun 2022 all the way through to 05 Oct 2023 have been cancelled.Guests impacted by these changes will receive an e-mail with further details, along with specific offers available to their bookingAnd more from Carnival Carnival had previously shared that Carnival Sensation's restart was delayed, and that Carnival Ecstasy would move from Jacksonville, Fla. to Mobile, Ala. to operate what were previously planned as the Carnival Sensation itineraries, effective with the Mar. 5, 2022 restart.  In addition, Carnival said that Carnival Spirit would go to Jacksonville to take over the Mar. 7, 2022 restart in Jacksonville, operating the previously scheduled Carnival Ecstasy itineraries.Carnival is now announcing the following updates:Jacksonville: As previously announced, Carnival Spirit will replace Carnival Ecstasy in Jacksonville. While that will happen for departures from Mar. 7 through Apr. 9, 2022, the next two cruises are being cancelled, and then a new ship will be assigned from the Carnival fleet to Jacksonville for the Ecstasy itineraries, effective Apr. 23, 2022. That announcement will be made shortly.Mobile: Carnival Ecstasy will reposition to Mobile for departures from Mar. 5 through Oct. 10, 2022. Cruises from Mobile that were planned for Carnival Sensation from Oct. 15, 2022 through Sep. 30, 2023 have been cancelled. At a later date, Carnival will be announcing a new operating plan for Mobile cruises.Australia: Carnival is cancelling planned operations of Carnival Splendor from Jun. 10, 2022 through Sep. 26, 2022, and of Carnival Spirit from Jun. 5, 2022 to Oct. 5, 2023. Details for a two-ship return to Australia will be announced when they are confirmed.As part of this deployment plan, Carnival Sensation will not restart guest operations and Carnival Ecstasy's last cruise in guest operations will be the Oct. 10, 2022 departure from Mobile and both ships will leave the Carnival fleet. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' Flagship PortMiami Terminal Awarded Prestigious LEED® Gold CertificationNorwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. which operates Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, announced that its brand new state-of-the-art Norwegian Cruise Line flagship terminal at PortMiami received an honorary recognition as the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold New Construction v4.0 cruise ship terminal in Florida, the United States and the world.  Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world, and LEED certification is a globally recognised symbol of sustainability achievement. LEED for Building Design and Construction, specifically New Construction, provides a framework for building a holistic green building while addressing both design and construction activities.The state-of-the-art terminal often dubbed as the “Pearl of Miami” welcomed guests for the first time in August 2021 upon the Company's return to service in the U.S. with Norwegian Gem.The 17,500 square metre terminal, which can accommodate cruise vessels carrying up to 5,000 cruise guests, was designed with innovation and sustainability at the forefront. The team created a platform that optimises the terminal's energy performance, indoor air quality, water efficiencies, utilisation of local materials and resources and much more. With high levels of energy performance in mind, the project was designed to perform at least 38% better than the average building. In addition to significant water quality permits and protections, the terminal includes manatee protections and pollution discharge protections, and plans to have shore power capabilities by the Northern Hemisphere Autumn of 2023.Norwegian Cruise Line introduces Norwegian VivaNorwegian Cruise Line (NCL), has unveiled Norwegian Viva, the next ship in its brand-new Prima Class.Providing guests with elevated experiences including more wide-open spaces, thoughtful and stunning design and exceptional service, Norwegian Viva will begin sailing remarkable Mediterranean itineraries in June 2023, homeporting in key Southern European port cities including Lisbon, Portugal; Venice (Trieste) and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; and Athens (Piraeus), Greece. She will then sail the Southern Caribbean for her 2023-2024 northern hemisphere winter season offering warm-weather getaways from San Juan, Puerto Rico.Mirroring the upscale design and structure of her record-breaking sister ship Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva, also built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri in Marghera, Italy, will debut at 294 metres long, 142,500 gross tonnes and accommodate 3,219 guests at double occupancy. Travellers will live up every second of their journey in the most spacious accommodation including NCL's largest inside, ocean view and balcony category staterooms.This world-class vessel offers the highest staffing levels and space ratio of any new cruise ship in the contemporary and premium cruise categories, as well as the largest variety of suite categories available at sea. Luxury-loving guests will enjoy a redefined The Haven by Norwegian, NCL's ultra-premium keycard only access ship-within-a-ship concept. The Haven's public areas and 107 suites have been designed by Piero Lissoni, one of Italy's most renowned designers, with features including an expansive sundeck, a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ship's wake and an outdoor spa with a glass-walled sauna and cold room.The Prima Class' variety of recreational activities also make their elevated comeback on Norwegian Viva with only-available-on-Prima-Class experiences including The Rush and The Drop, the fastest freefall drop dry slides at sea, and the Viva Speedway, the largest three-level racetrack at sea.Norwegian Viva will feature Ocean Boulevard, the 44,000 square foot outdoor walkway which wraps around the entire ship; 11 diverse eateries at Indulge Food Hall; The Concourse boasting an outdoor sculpture garden; Oceanwalk's glass bridges over water; and expansive pool decks and infinity style pools at Infinity Beach.Norwegian Viva will boast eye-catching hull art designed by Italian graffiti and sculpture artist Manuel Di Rita, commonly known as “Peeta,” who also illustrated the exceptional hull design on Norwegian Prima. World-class architects who helped design Norwegian Prima including Rockwell Group, SMC Design and Miami-based Studio Dado, have also returned to influence the aesthetic of various restaurants, staterooms and public areas.The first two Prima Class vessels, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, will feature cutting-edge alternative technologies, such as a NOx reduction system (SCR), that reduce the ship's overall environmental impact.  SCR catalysts filter out sulfur oxides up to 98% and nitrogen oxides up to 90%, ensuring the vessels meet Tier III NOx compliance. Further, they will be equipped with an Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS), an Advanced Wastewater Treatment System to treat and clean all wastewater to meet stringent international standards, as well as Cold Ironing functionality to connect to onshore power grids to further reduce emissions while in port. For more information about the Company's environmental, social and governance efforts, please click here.LIVELY ITINERARIES ON NCL'S NEWEST SHIPNorthern Hemisphere Summer 2023: Mediterranean from Rome, Athens and LisbonFollowing a string of inaugural cruises and beginning June 2023, Norwegian Viva will become the newest ship embarking in the Mediterranean. Between 15 June and 6 November 2023, she will sail a series eight, nine and ten-day voyages from Lisbon, Portugal; Venice (Trieste) and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; and Athens (Piraeus), Greece, offering guests the opportunity to explore the Mediterranean's Spanish, Italian and Greek regions.Northern Hemisphere Winter 2023-2024: Southern Caribbean from San JuanNorwegian Viva will become the largest new ship to ever homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. On 15 December 2023 she will depart San Juan on a seven-day Caribbean voyage with her first stop in Tortola, British Virgin Islands. She will then make her way to Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; St. John's, Antigua; and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands before returning to San Juan on 22 December. Future sailings will also include notable ports in the Caribbean for seven- and nine-day sailings.Cunard takes Shakespeare to the high seas with the Royal Shakespeare CompanyCunard will be taking Shakespeare and new work to the high seas in 2022, as it joins forces in a first-of-its-kind partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) to bring world class theatre to its transatlantic stage.Available exclusively on-board flagship Queen Mary 2, guests will enjoy tailored theatrical performances by the RSC, which creates captivating theatre by Shakespeare, his contemporaries and other literary legends past and present. The performances will be available for all guests on board, including a unique blend of Shakespeare's iconic love scenes in a brand new piece called Boundless as the Sea, created by Owen Horsley.Guests will also have the opportunity to see critically acclaimed new work from the RSC with Miss Littlewood: a musical by Sam Kenyon exploring the life of one of theatre's most playful and radical figures, making its transatlantic debut.For those interested in learning what it takes to be an RSC actor, the on board cast will be leading a series of workshops that explore their craft. Guests will also be able to access “Shakespeare Tales,” intimate, informal events where the actors will perform their personal favourite sonnets and speeches, and answer questions from the audience.n addition, Queen Mary 2 will host a touring exhibition, “Digital Diorama: An Augmented Journey Through Shakespeare's Stratford.” Guests will use devices to experience scenes from his plays come to life before their eyes. Some of the RSC's most popular productions in recent years including Hamlet, Henry V, The Merry Wives of Windsor and As You Like it will also be screened in Cunard's on board cinema, Illuminations.The three year partnership will begin on May 29 until August 12, 2022 and then again from September 15 to November 13, 2022, and will offer this bespoke programme exclusively to Cunard guests on Queen Mary 2 throughout these two periods. Guests will experience either Boundless as the Sea or Miss Littlewood on each featured voyage. Dates for future years to be announced at a later date.Literature Festival at Sea with Cheltenham Literature Festival returns in 2022 with stellar line-upThe extraordinary Literature Festival at Sea, curated by the programming team of the Times and The Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival, will return once again in 2022 with a line-up of some of the world's finest talent, including Bernardine Evaristo, Ian Rankin, Alexander McCall Smith, Mary Beard and Richard Osman.The seven-night crossing, which departs New York for Southampton on 3 December 2022 will include a plethora of workshops, talks and readings as Queen Mary 2 sails across the Atlantic.Guests will hear from award-winning authors about their life and work, go behind the headlines with The Times journalists and get to improve their writing skills in workshops led by literary experts.Princess Cruises Expands Contactless MedallionPay Payment into DestinationsGuests sailing on Princess MedallionClass™ ships now have a contactless purchasing option that eliminates the need for them to carry cash or credit cards into destinations on their cruise vacation. The premium cruise brand today announced the expansion of MedallionPay™, the frictionless payment experience that lets guests use their Princess Medallion® wearable device to shop, play, eat and drink, with a number of merchants in ports of call in the Caribbean, Mexican Riviera and all Alaska ports of call, and also to now include 7% back on shoreside purchases as an onboard ship credit for the inaugural year.MedallionPay currently is available in St. Thomas, Cabo San Lucas, Cozumel, and Puerta Vallarta, with more destinations and merchants being added in the near future, including extensions into all Alaska ports Princess ships call on.  Among prominent merchants now accepting MedallionPay are Diamonds International and Cariloha, as well as more than 65 other retailers from restaurants, bars, souvenir stores, and jewelers to museums and excursion operators. MedallionPay is available to all retailers large and small with no setup or monthly fees to register as a MedallionPay merchant, no required long-term contracts and the software is free to use. Merchants simply pay a transaction fee that includes all credit card processing fees and can cancel service at their discretion.Guests who make purchases with participating merchants enjoy the convenience, security and a 7% shipboard credit on purchases when they associate a credit card with a MedallionPay account. And it equates to even bigger rewards when guests associate their MedallionPay account with a cash back credit card.No credit card or personal information is stored on the Medallion. And the MedallionPay ecosystem exceeds the security levels used in financial institutions and passports by using the latest methods of tokenization, abstraction and encryption.When making a purchase with participating retail locations in select ports of call, merchants securely confirm the transaction with two-factor authentication that exceeds typical credit card transaction.Discovery Princess Officially Delivered to Princess CruisesThe newest cruise ship in the Princess Cruises fleet – Discovery Princess – was delivered on January 28 during an official handover at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. Discovery Princess expands the Princess Cruises fleet to 15 MedallionClass vessels and features an evolution of the design platform used for the cruise line's previous Royal-Class ships. The 3,660-guest Discovery Princess is the sixth and final Royal-Class newbuild and shares all of the spectacular style and luxury of her sister ships – Enchanted Princess℠, Sky Princess®, Majestic Princess℠, Regal Princess℠ and Royal Princess℠. With an array of innovative new experiences, guests will enjoy 270-degree sweeping views from the largest balconies at sea in the Sky Suites, unwind in ultimate comfort at The Sanctuary and indulge the senses with world-class dining options. Plus, Princess live entertainment presents mesmerising new Broadway-style production shows that can only be seen in the state-of-the-art Princess Theatre.  Discovery Princess uses the latest technologies to reduce fuel consumption, treat wastewater, and support our environmental compliance effortsDiscovery Princess will depart Italy and make her way to the Port of Los Angeles to sail on a series of Mexican Riviera and California Coast voyages from March 27 – April 24, 2022, before heading up the Pacific coast to begin a season of seven-day Alaska cruises from Seattle.  Costa Toscana tasked the Sanremo Festival to the seaThe 72nd edition of the Sanremo Festival, the most popular Italian song contest, will be hosted at sea for the first time, thanks to the collaboration between Costa Cruises and Rai Pubblicità.Costa Toscana, the new “green” ship of the Italian company's fleet, will be the floating stage for the live shows of two stars of the past editions of the Festival: Orietta Berti and Fabio Rovazzi. They will be joint by exceptional Italian artists, who will perform every evening on the stage of one of the ship's theatres.Costa Toscana will be a constant and regular presence at the Sanremo Festival not only on television, on Rai Uno, but also on the radio. Indeed, the program “Tre per due” of Rai Radio Due, with the “Gemelli di Guidonia” singers, together with the band “Stefano Signoroni & the MC”, will be on board for the entire duration of the Festival.Costa Toscana is moored at anchor about one kilometre from the port of Sanremo, where she arrived on January 30 and will stay until February 6. On board, there will be no public presence, except for who will contribute to the events planned on board, in addition to the ship's crew members. For the occasion, a special health protocol has also been developed and shared with the relevant health authorities.Costa Toscana is the new Italian-flagged ship in the Costa Cruises fleet. Built at the Meyer shipyard in Turku (Finland), she will leave for her first Mediterranean cruise on March 5, 2022, from Savona.  Designed as a true traveling “smart city,” the ship is powered by liquefied natural gas, the most advanced technology currently available in the maritime sector to cut emissions, which Costa was the first to introduce on cruise ships. On board, 100% separate waste collection and recycling of materials such as plastic, paper, glass and aluminium is carried out. The entire daily water requirement is met by transforming sea water through the use of desalinators. Energy consumption is reduced to a minimum thanks to an intelligent energy efficiency system.The interiors of Costa Toscana are the result of an extraordinary creative project, curated by Adam D. Tihany, created to enhance and bring to life the best of this wonderful region in a single location. Furniture, lighting, fabrics and accessories are all “Made in Italy“, created by 15 partners highly representative of Italian excellence. The on-board offer is perfectly integrated into this extraordinary context: from the Solemio Spa, to the areas dedicated to entertainment; from the themed bars, in collaboration with major Italian and international brands, to the 21 restaurants and areas dedicated to the “food experience”, including the new Archipelago restaurant, which offers menus created by the three star chefs Bruno Barbieri, Hélène Darroze and Ángel León, as well as raising awareness and funds for sea conservation projects carried out by the Costa Crociere Foundation.Spectrum of the Seas to arrive early in Singapore International Guests can Sail on Royal Caribbean International's Popular Ocean Getaways as soon as April 2022Holidaymakers can now pack their bags from  11 April 2022 for the ultimate adventure on board Royal Caribbean International's Spectrum of the Seas, Asia's largest, newest and most innovative ship, for spectacular 3- to 4-night Ocean Getaways. Six months sooner than anticipated, guests will enjoy world-class dining, showstopping entertainment, a private enclave for suite guests and state-of-the-art amenities exclusively designed for the Asian market. Sailings are now open for bookings.Guests on board Spectrum can savour an array of Asian-inspired cuisine, such as teppanyaki and hot pot-style dining, a showcase of unparalleled entertainment that touches on the cultures, colour, music and dance styles of Asia; high-tech experiences; and more. Highlights include:Sky Pad – Asia's first, this virtual reality, bungee trampoline adventure is where guests can strap in, don a headset and transport themselves to another time and planet.Suite Enclave – Royal Caribbean's first and exclusive space for the exquisite Royal Suite Class Star, Sky and Sea accommodations in a private area, featuring exclusive floor access, an elevator, private restaurants and a dedicated lounge area. Two70 – Boasting stunning 270-degree ocean views by day and transforming into a multidimensional theatre by night, this transformative space flaunts six agile Roboscreens, breathtaking live performers and mind-bending aerialists to create unimaginable visuals.SeaPlex – The largest indoor active space at sea, featuring bumper cars, laser tag, fencing, archery and more.Star Moment – A lively and energetic karaoke venue where family and friends come together to belt out and sing like stars.Family Friendly Accommodations – From exterior balcony staterooms to interconnected rooms, to the signature two-level Ultimate Family Suite, an expansive, multiroom retreat complete with its own slide and cinema that also doubles as a karaoke stage, there's an array of staterooms designed for the whole family.Signature Experiences – A bold lineup of guest favourites are on deck, including the FlowRider surf simulator, the North Star, an all-glass observation capsule which ascends 300 feet above the ocean to deliver incomparable 360-degree views; and RipCord by iFly, the first sky diving experience at sea.A World of Flavours – There are 19 dining options that serve up a variety of cuisines, including Hot Pot, an authentic Chinese dining experience; Teppanyaki, a celebration of Far East flavours cooked in Japan's traditional teppanyaki style; and Sichuan Red, a new specialty dining experience tailored just for Spectrum, where diners can savour a bold tapestry of spices and Sichuan flavours. Signature classics include imaginative cuisine at Wonderland, American steakhouse Chops Grille and authentic rustic fare and handmade pasta at Jamie's Italian.In line with its Royal Promise and regulations stipulated by the Singapore government, Royal Caribbean continues to implement health and safety measures for the well-being of its guests and crew members, and the destinations it visits. The comprehensive, multilayered set of measures include pre-departure wellness screenings and testing, contactless embarkation and debarkation, enhanced ventilation and sanitization on board, as well as sailing with fully vaccinated crew members and guests. The cruise line will continue to evaluate and update its measures as circumstances evolve with various government and health authorities.Guests who book their vacation on Spectrum on or before 31 March 2022, can be assured of flexibility in their plans with Royal Caribbean's Cruise with Confidence program, which allows for changes and cancellations up to 48 hours before their cruise sets sail. As long as holidaymakers cancel at least 48 hours before their sail date, they will receive a Future Cruise Credit. The credit is valid for future bookings on or before 30 Sept 2022, for sailings departing before 31 Dec 2022, or one year from the original sailing date, whichever is later.Viking celebrates float out of Newest Egypt Ship Viking® today announced its newest ship for the Nile River—the 82-guest Viking Osiris—was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Set to debut in August 2022, Viking Osiris will sail Viking's bestselling 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary. The arrival of Viking's new ship later this year coincides with several key events in Egypt in 2022, including the highly anticipated opening of the new Grand Egyptian Museum outside Cairo on the Giza Plateau—as well as the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tutankhamen's tomb by Howard Carter and his benefactor, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon. Building on Viking's longstanding relationship with the Carnarvon family, guests who sail on board Viking Osiris will experience Privileged Access® to memories from 1922 and the events surrounding the discovery of King Tutankhamen's tomb.Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new, state-of-the-art Viking Osiris is inspired by Viking's award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The vessel features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. Viking Osiris will join the company's other ship on the Nile, Viking Ra, which launched in 2018. Additionally, in response to strong demand, Viking Aton, an identical sister ship to Viking Osiris, will join the fleet in 2023.AIDA Cruises Announces the Expansion of its Selection ProgramThe cruise company AIDA Cruises will further expand its Selection program. The AIDAselection voyages, which are very popular with guests, will be offered and further developed in the future regardless of ship class. Guests can expect a wide selection of special itineraries with authentic travel experiences.In October 2022, AIDAsol will be the first Sphinx-class ship to embark on a world cruise. Highlights of this 117-day XXL adventure include the circumnavigation of Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope, destinations such as the Avenue of Glaciers, Tierra del Fuego, Mauritius, Cape Town and New Year's Eve in Sydney.Guests will travel to the Lofoten Islands with AIDAbella, the highlights of the Arctic Circle with AIDAluna, and AIDAblu will offer extraordinary experiences on voyages to Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar. The new offer will be complemented by the voyages of AIDAvita and AIDAaura, which will provide unforgettable Selection moments in the summer of 2022 with their routes to the Scottish Islands or to the archipelago off the Swedish coast, among others.Each AIDAselection voyage will feature unique highlights. Thanks to exclusive excursions and longer shore stays, guests get to know the country and its people intensively. Experienced guides surprise with real insider tips. Depending on the route, renowned lecturers come on board.Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep to set sail with P&O Cruises on IonaP&O Cruises is partnering with Aardman, the creators of Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep, to bring a range of character-based activities for all generations to newest ship Iona.Children in The Reef clubs will be able to participate in themed dance classes and craft workshops where they can make Gromit ears or Shaun the Sheep masks. All the family can then come together for quality time to enjoy special screenings of the Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep films in the cinema, or have photos taken with the eccentric inventor Wallace and his loyal friend Gromit at special character appearanceHolland America Line Celebrates Naming of Rotterdam with Ceremony in Namesake City and Special Seven-Day Voyage Holland America Line‘s newest ship Rotterdam is set to get the royal treatment at a naming ceremony in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, May 30, 2022. Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands will be the ship's godmother, carrying on a Dutch royal tradition that began in the 1920s.Rotterdam‘s special seven-day “Rotterdam Naming Celebration” cruise sails roundtrip from Amsterdam, Netherlands, departing 29 May 22 and also visits Kristiansand, Stavanger and Flåm, Norway, with scenic cruising in SognefjordAnd moreJoin the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/  Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg    Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home  Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF  Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI  Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u  I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8  Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz  Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M  Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs  Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. 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In Episode 83, we chat with Tamara about the life a guest lecturer onboard cruise ships, plus Chris answers listener questions about Maritime History and of course we have the latest cruise news from around the world. Support The ShowListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showBuy Me A Coffee – This podcast is only possible thanks to our supporters, simply buying a coffee keeps us on air. It is just like shouting your mate a coffee, and we consider our listeners close mates. https://bit.ly/2T2FYGXSustainable Fashion – choose a TBCP design or design your own… all using organic cotton, green energy and zero plastic https://bit.ly/32G7RdhSupport Chris in his walk from Cape to Cape: All donations support zero2hero empowering young people to deal with mental health.  https://donate.mycause.com.au/cause/263123?donateToMember=156839Listener QuestionsGary in Sydney asks – Hi Baz and Chris – Many years ago I was on the QM2 as part of a world voyage, embarking in Hong Kong and sailing to Sydney, during the voyage I took part in the Crossing the Line ceremony, which involved kissing a fish and lots of gunky food stuffs. It was such a fun experience and since then I've seen it a number of times on various ships and each ship does it in a similar manner.I have noticed that crew members taking part seem to get special attentionWhat I'd like to know is;What is the tradition behind this nautical mayhem?Also if a ship is doing a world cruise does the crossing the line ceremony happen every time she passes the equator?Part of this question was answered in detail in Episode 68 – https://bit.ly/2UD2afjGill from SA asks Chris – what is the algorithm you talk about?Vilma from UK asks Baz – What makes TeeMill (your chosen supplier of podcast merchandise) so good.TeeMill: https://the-big-cruise-podcast.teemill.com/the-journey/ Example of “Buy a Tee, Plant a Tree” promotion:A holistic approach to reforestationThis weekend, we count your orders and fund the planting of trees in your brand's name. Our international tree planting partners work to address reforestation through a mixture of approaches. As well as directly seeding land with native seed species, they also employ methods like creating ‘seed bombs' which contain seeds mixed with clay, compost and soil, ready to plant when the rainy season arrives. After the trees are planted, protecting them is vital. Patrols and guard towers watch for fires and keep the forests from getting cut down illegally or destroyed by natural disasters.34 football pitches of forest plantedTogether, so far, across our tree planting weekends, we've planted enough trees to sequester over 1.7 million kilograms of CO2 from the atmosphere. Trees are the ultimate carbon storage system without requiring any expensive tech, helping to fight climate change. What's more, they also help to cool our air by releasing water through their leaves which then turns into water vapour. The larger the tree, the more carbon it can hold which is why our tree planting partners work hard to protect forests as well as plant them. You can find your own tree planting stats in Analytics and set a Green Friday target for customers to get behind. Posting live updates across the weekend is a great way to keep your community engaged as you move towards your reforestation goal.Guest Lecturer - Tamara Tamara is an 8th generation Australian. Her family were Navy officers at Rushcutters Bay and arrived with the first fleet. The family has continued to be maritime officers. Her grandfather was a Sydney Harbour pilot. Her father was appointed Capt of MV Gedera – Zim in 1963 and all her male cousins are Captains and/or pilots. She was always bound to love the ocean! Tamara on land is a celebrant, and when at sea has been offering guest enrichment onboard Cruise & Maritime Voyages. Her cruise history includes some impressive ships and ocean liners. Passenger:2014 Egypt – Nile “Star Goddess” Sonesta Cruises2017 Alaska – Inside Passage “Alaskan Dream” Alaskan Dream Cruises2018 Southbound repositioning – Amsterdam to Auckland via Panama Canal “Astor” CMV – I surprised my parents who were doing this voyage to celebrate their 55th wedding ann. The last time they went through the Panama Canal my mum was pregnant with me, so I figured I should be there this time too.Guest Lecturer:2019 British Isles – Portsmouth to Portsmouth “Marco Polo” CMV2019 British Isles – Tilbury -Tilbury “Vasco da Gama” CMV2019 Baltic cities & St Petersburg – Hull to Hull “Astoria” CMV2019 Southbound repositioning – Tilbury to Sydney via Panama Canal “Vasco da Gama” CMV2020 Amazon, West Indies & Azores – Tilbury-Tilbury “ Magellan” CMVFacebook: @tamara.spiritual.celebrantCruise NewsP&O Cruises Australia Now Paused Until 3 March Next YearDespite tentative signs of a restart to cruising in Australia, P&O Cruises Australia has had to make the difficult decision to further extend its pause in operations to 3 March, 2022 amid continued uncertainty over when governments will allow the cruise industry to resume.The extended pause applies to cruises scheduled to depart from 15 February, 2022 until 3 March, 2022 from Sydney and Brisbane.  Earlier this month, P&O Cruises Australia cancelled next year's scheduled seasons for Adelaide, Fremantle and Cairns.Carnival cancelsCarnival Cruise Line has extended its pause in operations for Australian sailings.The cruise line has cut voyages through to and including 08 April on board Carnival Splendor, as well as through to and including 10 April on board Carnival Spirit.Dream Cruises announces Singapore departures now open for bookings from international travellers, including AustraliansWorld Dream bookings that are available for Singapore residents only are also currently open to non-residents in Singapore, as well as international travellers, including Australians entering the country via the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL). This marks a new milestone for Dream Cruises that will help to fuel the recovery of the Fly-cruise industry for both Singapore and internationally.Travellers from abroad entering Singapore will have to fulfil the mandatory Border & Health Control Measures in Response to COVID-19 as implemented by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to be eligible to cruise. As part of Dream Cruises' ongoing commitment towards safety for its guests and crew, all embarking guests will also need to undergo a compulsory pre-boarding Antigen Rapid Test (ART) at the cruise terminal and present a negative test result for COVID-19.World Dream celebrated its first anniversary of cruise resumption in Singapore, earlier this month with over 200,000 guests since 6 November 2020.MSC Cruises, has hosted the naming ceremony of MSC Virtuosa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates MSC Cruises, has hosted the naming ceremony of MSC Virtuosa when Hollywood superstar Sophia Loren officially named the ship in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the weekend.MSC Cruises chose Dubai to host the ceremony in recognition of its long-term commitment to the UAE and the wider Middle East market where it is the brand leader.Equipped with some of the latest marine technologies available, MSC Virtuosa is one of the world's most environmentally advanced cruise ships. No effort has been spared to minimise her footprint. MSC Cruises shares the UAE's ambition to reach net zero emissions by 2050 and MSC Virtuosa represents yet another milestone on the journey towards reaching this goal.MSC Virtuosa can carry up to 6,334 passengers and 1,704 crew and is set to serve the Arabian Sea until March 2022 from her base in Dubai.Hosted by well-known UAE TV personality Omar Butti as Master of Ceremonies, Hollywood icon Sophia Loren took to the stage to officially name her 17th MSC Cruises' ship by cutting the ribbon that breaks the bottle on the ship's hull.The star-studded night culminated in a spectacular firework display against the stunning Dubai skyline, before a celebratory gourmet dinner in one of the ships' elegant restaurants. Event guests were also treated to a performance by internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter Rag'n'Bone Man.Caribbean Princess Welcomes Guests Back Onboard for a Season of Cruises to the Tropical Caribbean from Ft. LauderdaleEnthusiastic cruisers set sail aboard Caribbean Princess from Ft. Lauderdale for a vacation to the Eastern Caribbean, marking the return to service of the next Princess Cruises ship.The cruise ship is sailing on roundtrip voyages from Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale to the tropical Eastern and Western Caribbean, visiting popular destinations such as St. Kitts, St. Thomas, Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Princess Cays, the cruise line's private island resort in the Bahamas. Seven-day cruises are combinable for 14-day Eastern and Western Adventurer voyages.All guests sailing on Eastern Caribbean itineraries visit Princess Cays private island resort for a day of fun, sun, water activities and a beach BBQ, ranked among the “Top Cruise Line Private Island Destinations” by Cruise Critic. The island even offers cabanas with air conditioning and bar service. MedallionNet Wi-Fi featuring reliable and fast connectivity is also available on the island for cruisers who wish to take advantage of an oceanfront office for the day or to share photos and videos with friends and family back home.Recently modernized to appeal to families of all sizes and age groups, Caribbean Princess immerses guests in the destinations the ship visits offering unique themed food and drink offerings. Camp Discovery, the youth and teen centre, offers younger cruisers the opportunity to make new friends, hang out and engage in enriching activities.Favourite family features onboard include The Reef Outdoor Splash Zone with shade, sun and water activities for the kids; Movies Under the Stars showcasing first-fun movies, sports events and more; and fine and quick-service dining options appealing to all tastes and preferences.Princess Cruises Honours Women of The Explorers Club Serving as Godmothers of Enchanted PrincessCelebrating the inauguration of a new cruise ship is a time-honored, maritime tradition and Princess Cruises today announced details about the naming ceremony of Enchanted Princess, which is showcased in an original production entitled, “Our World, Enchanted,” scheduled to broadcast globally at 1:00 pm PST / 4:00 pm ET on Dec. 13, 2021, on Princess Cruises' YouTube channel and Facebook page.Since its inception in 1904, members of The Explorers Club have traversed the earth, the seas, the skies, and even the moon, on expeditions of exploration. This multidisciplinary, professional society is dedicated to the advancement of field research, scientific exploration and resource conservation. The three godmothers of Enchanted Princess have been recognized for their achievements in expeditions, oceanography and mapping the oceans and they include:Captain Lynn Danaher – Captain Danaher has been a United States Coast Guard Licensed Master and Dive Master since 1994. She is a founding member and president of the Pacific Islands Research Institute since 2008 and co-founder of the Friday Harbor Film Festival since 2013. She joined The Explorers Club in 2005 and has served as chair of the Pacific Northwest Chapter for two years and the Board of Directors for six years. She has completed eight Explorers Club Flag Expeditions. Captain Danaher is an officer of The Explorers Club, serving as Vice President: Mission Programming and Chair of the Headquarters Renovation Committee. She is also a licensed Contractor in the State of Hawaii.Dr. Vicki Ferrini – After completing her PhD in Coastal Oceanography, Dr. Ferrini extended her research interests from the coast to the hidden deep-sea world. The majority of the global ocean is unmapped, unexplored and uncharacterized, and her work aims to help solve that. A Senior Research Scientist at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Dr. Ferrini leads several efforts focused on making sure data are preserved and can be accessed by scientists and the public alike. She is committed to building a vibrant international community of collaborators, and works with colleagues around the world to help build bridges between people and the ocean through data. Dr. Ferrini joined the Explorers Club in 2021 when she was selected as one of the Explorers Club 50 – fifty explorers changing the world.Jenifer Austin – Jenifer Austin spent nearly 14 years at Google, where she co-led the team that launched the first virtual map of the ocean in the company's consumer products Google Earth and Google Maps and also launched Underwater Streetview in Google Maps and Global Fishing Watch. She then started Oceanagenda.com to help bring together diverse groups to support holistic ocean conservation and stewardship. She is a scuba diver. A fellow of the Explorers Club (FN'14), she has served on the W40 Women's Committee, speaking as a part of the Women of the Deep and hosting a panel in its finale Pathfinders Symposium. Austin is a mother of two children.The 145,000-ton, 3,660-guest ship represents an evolution of the design platform used for her sister ships – Royal Princess (2013), Regal Princess (2014), Majestic Princess (2017) and Sky Princess (2019) – offering an elevation of spectacular style and elegance that is distinguished by Princess. The ship's inaugural cruise season began Nov. 10, with various 10-day Southern Caribbean itineraries, sailing roundtrip from Ft. LauderdaleHurtigruten Expeditions Donates to Alaska Wilderness League and Galápagos Conservancy to Protect Local WildlifeNORTH AMERICA SPECIFICHurtigruten Expeditions, will donate 1% of all North American bookings made in November and December for Alaska and the Galápagos to Alaska Wilderness League and Galápagos Conservancy, respectively, through its Hurtigruten Foundation.Galápagos and Alaska are some of the latest additions to Hurtigruten Expeditions' growing global offering of unique experiences – with the first Galápagos expedition cruises starting from January 2022. The funds will be donated through the Hurtigruten Foundation.The Hurtigruten Foundation aims to create a lasting, positive impact in the remote places Hurtigruten Expeditions operates and actively seeks to support initiatives that support local communities, protect endangered species or lead to the reduction in plastics and marine litter.For summer 2022, Hurtigruten Expeditions will have its first full season in Alaska, offering two itineraries, one that's 14 days and one that's 18 days, either southbound or northbound. The 18-day cruise includes stops where hardly any other cruise line has ever visited, including the Alaskan Peninsula, the Aleutian Islands, and the uninhabited St. Paul and St. Matthew Islands.All 2022 Alaskan itineraries are onboard the hybrid-battery-powered MS Roald Amundsen. By booking a Hurtigruten Expeditions voyage in November or December, North American travelers will contribute directly to preserving the Alaskan wilderness they explore.For the Galápagos, the new partnership with Galápagos Conservancy will see donations divided between three multi-year, multi-partner programs:Iniciativa Galápagos: Restoring Giant Tortoises. More than 10,000 Giant Tortoises have been reared in captivity and released to the wild to reverse the decimation of their numbers caused by centuries of over-exploitation, but populations are still 10% of original size, and available habitats are only 35% occupied. Hurtigruten's funding will go towards the organization's breeding, rearing, release, and research programs concerning these ecologically critical animals and their ecosystems;Strengthening the Galápagos Marine Reserve. The nutrient-rich waters of the newly-expanded Galápagos Marine Reserve are an oasis for one of the world's highest concentrations of ocean biodiversity, including nearly 3,000 species of marine wildlife. Galápagos Conservancy is on the leading edge of combatting climate change and incursions by invasive species, and Hurtigruten funding will go toward this and a wide array of marine protection and restoration programs; andSaving Pink Land Iguanas. On the remote slopes of Wolf Volcano on Isabela Island, the endemic Pink Land Iguana — a key species in the development of evolutionary science — is teetering on the brink of extinction. With an estimated 211 individuals left in the world, Hurtigruten funding will go towards expeditions to collect additional information on breeding and nesting behavior, construction of a permanent hut to serve as a base of operations for future fieldwork on the volcano, and control of introduced predators.Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils 2024 Deployment, Releases the Most Itineraries for Sale in its HistoryNorwegian Cruise Line (NCL), has opened for sale the most itineraries at once in its history, unveiling sailings from 35 departure ports – including brand-new NCL homeports in Haifa, Israel and La Romana, Dominican Republic. The announcement includes Australia and New Zealand cruises, as well as cruises within Northern Europe, The Mediterranean, Alaska and the Caribbean through to October 2024, while Hawai'i inter-island 7-day voyages are now open up to Dec 2025.Australian travellers can look forward to Norwegian Spirit returning to Australian and New Zealand waters from December 2023, offering eight 12-day sailings between Sydney and Auckland. Following the most extensive and expensive makeover in NCL history – at a cost of USD$100m – Norwegian Spirit is designed to be different, appealing to the adult cruiser and epitomising laidback luxuryFIRSTSThe newly opened itineraries feature 35 departure ports across the globe, including two new-to-brand homeport destinations – Haifa, Israel and La Romana, Dominican Republic:Norwegian Epic will make her debut in Haifa, Israel's largest international seaport, in November 2022. The vessel will offer 11-and-12-day Mediterranean open-jaw sailings to and from Haifa, Israel and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy starting 8 November 2023 through 12 December The ship will call to beautiful destinations such as Livorno (Florence) and Naples, Italy; Kusadasi and Istanbul, Turkey; Piraeus (Athens), Patmos, and Rhodes, Greece; and Limassol, Cyprus. This itinerary will also feature 17-hours of port time in Ashdod, Israel giving guests sufficient time to tour the cosmopolitan city of Tel Aviv as well as one of the oldest cities in the world, Jerusalem.Norwegian Sky will be the first to sail a series of port-rich 7-day roundtrip Southern Caribbean cruises from La Romana, Dominican Republic with a port-of-call each day from 8 January 2024 through 22 April 2024, making NCL the only major cruise company sailing Southern Caribbean voyages with no sea days.AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALANDNorwegian Spirit will return to Australian and New Zealand waters, offering immersive 12-day itineraries that explore exquisite natural beauty and cosmopolitan cities. With departures from both Sydney and Auckland, these open-jaw voyages allow guests plenty of time in port to explore their own backyard in-depth. Highlights include the Art Deco capital of the world, Napier, as well as a scenic cruise through New Zealand's famous Sounds.HAWAIIPride of America's year-round 7-day inter-island Hawai'i voyages are now open for sale through to December 2025. NCL is the only cruise line to offer year-round, inter-island voyages that visit four islands over seven days with two overnights and no sea days, allowing guests more time to explore their stunning surrounds.ALASKAOn 22 April 2024 and 25 September 2024, Norwegian Spirit will once again offer her “Fire and Ice” voyages – an open-jaw itinerary sailing to and from Honolulu and Vancouver, visiting the tropical islands of Hawai'i and beautiful towns of Alaska. Guests will discover paradise as they overnight in Nawiliwili (Kauai), and island hop to Kahului (Maui), and Hilo, Hawai'i and then sail towards the Last Frontier where the vessel will cruise through striking glaciers towards the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, a United Nations World Heritage Site, followed by calls to Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska. For those looking to be the first to experience this once-in-a-lifetime itinerary, the debut “Fire and Ice” sailing will take place 12 June 2022, followed by a second sailing on 3 October 2022.GREEK ISLES AND MEDITERRANEANNorwegian Epic will make her debut in Trieste (Venice), Italy and Koper, Slovenia during her 14-day Grand Mediterranean holiday sailing on 22 December 2023 – inviting guests to experience Europe in a unique way, during the cooler festive season. The itinerary will offer zero sea days and overnight visits in Dubrovnik, Croatia on Christmas Eve, as well as Barcelona and Palma Mallorca, Spain to celebrate the new year.Norwegian Escape will offer five, 10-to-11-day Grand Mediterranean sailings between April 2024 and October 2024 where guests will spend over 105 hours exploring Mediterranean ports in Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Malta and Spain. During the 24 April 2024 sailing, the ship will call to Ibiza, Spain with a late midnight departure allowing guests to enjoy the late evening hours of the famed town. The ship will also make her debut call in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. Norwegian Escape will also offer a series of 7-day roundtrip cruises from Barcelona starting on 26 May 2024, featuring zero sea days and visiting six ports-of-call including Cannes, France; Livorno (Florence), Civitavecchia (Rome), Naples, and Cagliari, Italy; and Palma De Mallorca, Spain. Guests have the chance to spend more than 11 hours in Livorno (Florence), Civitavecchia (Rome), and Naples, three of the most historically and culturally rich cities in Italy.Norwegian Pearl will sail a series of 7-day roundtrip voyages from 26 May 2024 through 27 October 2024 from Trieste (Venice), Italy making calls in two medieval walled towns: Kotor, Montenegro and Dubrovnik, Croatia, and offering a late departure in Santorini for guests to take in their picturesque sunsets.NORTHERN EUROPENorwegian Getaway will offer one 9-day roundtrip sailing from Copenhagen on 13 May 2024 where guests have the chance to visit seven different countries in Northern Europe in nine days: Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom. Travellers can fully immerse themselves in each city as the itinerary allows them to spend at least nine hours in every port.CANADA & NEW ENGLANDFrom 2 September through 25 September 2024 Norwegian Joy will offer 7-and-8-day open jaw sailings from New York City and Quebec City, one of the top-rated ports by our guests sailing Canada and New England itineraries. Travelers can plan an extended stay in each city pre-and-post cruise to further enjoy the destinations.PANAMA CANALNorwegian Joy will offer an 11-day open jaw sailing from Miami to Panama City on 25 November 2023 where guests will have over eight hours in all ports-of-call with a full 13 hours in Willemstad, Curaçao, ideal for a scuba diving adventure or a stroll down their picturesque pier featuring colorful colonial Dutch buildings. The vessel will also offer two 15-day Panama Canal open-jaw sailings from Miami on 6 January  2024 and from Los Angeles on 26 January 2024 where she will overnight in Panama City where guests can tour its old colonial center or enjoy the vibrant nightlife.CARIBBEANSeveral NCL ships will be sailing the Caribbean with three vessels making a first-time visit to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, plus additional ports-of-call.Norwegian Getaway will make her debut in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos during her 12-day holiday sailing on 21 December 2023 from New York City where guests will spend Christmas day in tropical San Juan, Puerto Rico; while Norwegian Joy will make her debut in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos during a summer voyage from New York City in August 2024.Norwegian Joy will make her debut call in Philipsburg, St. Maarten and Kralendijk, Bonaire during her 12-day Southern Caribbean cruise from New York City to Miami on 16 October 2023.Norwegian Jade will make her debut in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; and St. George's, Grenada, during her 14-day Southern Caribbean voyage on 26 November 2023 from Tampa, Florida.BERMUDANorwegian Joy will offer four, five and 7-day roundtrip sailings from New York City to Bermuda from 9 April 2024 through 11 October 2024 with the 7-day sailings providing up to 55 hours in port at the Royal Naval Dockyard. Currently, NCL is the only cruise line to offer three days in Bermuda allowing guests to shop in the capital city of Hamilton or relax on the destination's famous pink sand beaches.Princes 2023/24 Australian Deployment now open for Sale PLUS Two Royal Class ships call Sydney Home with Majestic Princess and Royal Princess both homeported from the Harbour CityPrincess Cruises has unveiled a world of new travel opportunities for Australians in its latest program, including the longest-ever roundtrip cruise offered from Australia – a stunning 110-night global odyssey departing late April 2024.In a move that reflects strong demand for bucket list destinations, the cruise line today announced it will open bookings for its new 2023/24 Australian cruise program in early December- an unprecedented 11 months ahead of schedule for its world cruise.Featuring 113 departures between September 2023 and October 2024, the program is one of Princess' largest yet, with two Royal-class ships – Royal Princess and Majestic Princess – based in Sydney, while Grand Princess will cruise from Melbourne and Coral Princess will sail from Brisbane and Fremantle.Between them, the four ships will offer more than 40 Australian cruises and over 30 New Zealand cruises, as well as eight Asian itineraries and more than 10 Trans-Pacific sailing options.The 2000-guest Coral Princess features a large number of balcony staterooms, suites and mini-suites as well as a wide array of restaurants and lounges, and offers a superb level of comfort and space ideal for longer voyages. In addition to the world cruise, Coral Princess will sail on Princess' popular round-Australia itineraries, with two departures from both Sydney and Brisbane, as well as a 21-night voyage to see the sights of Asia from Sydney to Yokohama aboard Royal Princess departing 6 April 2024.With departures available from Adelaide, Fremantle and Auckland as well Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, the 2023/24 program offers a wide range of Australian itineraries including a new 12-night cruise to South Australia and Tasmania from Sydney on Majestic Princess and two cruises to Queensland from Melbourne.Highlights of the 2023/24 program include:Coral Princess' 110-night world cruise with roundtrip departures from Sydney on 30 April 2024 and Brisbane on 2 May 2024. Princess will offer 33 trans-Tasman cruises to New Zealand, ranging from 5 to 20 nights, with departures from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide. An all new 12-night roundtrip cruise from Sydney on Majestic Princess visiting Melbourne, Kangaroo Island, Adelaide, Port Lincoln, Port Arthur and Hobart. A 10-night exploration of Western Australia's stunning Coral Coast, sailing from Fremantle on Coral Princess and visiting Exmouth, Broome, Kuri Bay, and Geraldton. Round-Australia cruises on Coral Princess, with departures from Sydney and Brisbane. Cruises between Singapore and Fremantle on Coral Princess taking in the delights of South-east Asia. and more...Join the show:If you have a cruise tip, burning question or want to record a cruise review get in touch with us via the website https://thebigcruisepodcast.com/join-the-show/  Guests: Chris Frame: https://bit.ly/3a4aBCg    Chris's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisFrameOfficialPeter Kollar: https://www.cruising.org.au/Home  Listen & Subscribe: Amazon Podcasts: https://amzn.to/3w40cDcApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XvD7tF  Audible: https://adbl.co/3nDvuNgCastbox: https://bit.ly/2xkGBEI  Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/2RuY04u  I heart Radio:  https://ihr.fm/3mVIEUASpotify: https://spoti.fi/3caCwl8  Stitcher: https://bit.ly/2JWE8Tz  Pocket casts: https://bit.ly/2JY4J2M  Tune in: https://bit.ly/2V0Jrrs  Podcast Addict: https://bit.ly/2BF6LnE Hosted on Acast. 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