Podcasts about majestic princess

Hey Cruisers! Scott just recently sailed on the Majestic Princess on a wonderful repositioning cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia to Los Angeles, California. He had fantastic opportunity to interview cruise director Jason Allen and he shares five important things about the Majestic Princess that we need to know. We think that you will find this information entertaining and insightful with Jason and Scott. Happy Cruising! - Tommy & Scott 

Send us a textHello, passionate cruisers! This week on The Joy of Cruising Podcast, it is my pleasure to welcome back a special guest, Chef Rudi Sodamin, a culinary virtuoso of the seas. Chef Rudi is Princess Cruises' first Head of Culinary Arts effective January 2024. When I chatted with him back in December, Ep 71, we talked about his pending new role, along with his existing role as Master Chef for Holland America Line (HAL)—which I am particularly excited about as we cruise on HAL a couple times in 2025. Carnival Cruise Corporation—parent company of HAL, as well as Princess—was so impressed with Rubi's Sel de Mer, the French-inspired intimate brasserie that Chef Rudi led the launch of on select HAL ships, that they commissioned him to create Rudi's Seagrill for its new Excel-class ships—Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee.In 2023 Chef Rudi partnered with Princess Cruises, to create The Catch by Rudi on Enchanted Princess, Majestic Princess, Sky Princess, Discovery Princess, and recently-released Sun Princess—which I am particularly excited about as I will sail her new sister STAR Princess in 2025.  Since I last spoke with Chef Rudi, Princess Cruises announced it is joining with world renowned artist Romero Britto, known for his bold, colorful, and joyful style, and a global advocate for happiness, to create Love by Britto, the first artistically inspired dining experience celebrating the essence of "Love" aboard Sun Princess. According to Princess: Love and art converge with taste in an immersive culinary journey, showcasing a meticulously curated menu by culinary virtuoso Rudi Sodamin. With Sodamin's ingenious touch, Love by Britto transcends into a multisensory exploration, offering extraordinary dishes that embody profound passion, exquisite flavor, and boundless creativity. Love by Britto features a 7-course menu--a flute of Champagne upon arrival, lobster, caviar and truffles, and chocolate fondue.Says Chef Rudi, "Food is the international language of love; Love by Britto could not be more perfect for Princess, home Relying on ship wifi is slow, unsecure, sometimes not available & at foreign ports travelers don't want to pay their carriers' high fees. Save $ with GigSky! Get a data package usable on the ship & in ports. Link to GigSky: https://gigsky.pxf.io/nloxor. For a 10% discount use code: joyofcruisingSupport the showSupport thejoyofcruisingpodcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2113608/supporters/newSupport Me https://www.buymeacoffee.com/drpaulthContact Me https://www.thejoyofcruising.net/contact-me.htmlBook Cruises https://bit.ly/TheJoyOfCruisingPodcast-BookACruiseUS Orders (coupon code joyofcruisingpodcast)The Joy of Cruising https://bit.ly/TheJoyOfCruisingCruising Interrupted https://bit.ly/CruisingInterruptedThe Joy of Cruising Again https://bit.ly/TheJoyOfCruisingAgainIntl Orders via Amazon

Have you wondered what kind of special deals and offers you can get when you visit the Future Cruise  office? Scott recently was on the Majestic Princess and had the opportunity to speak with Brandon and asked all the questions. This in-depth interview will give you all the answers that you have been looking for to book that perfect future cruise. Now is the time to treat yourself and your family with that special vacation of a lifetime that will make memories you will cherish forever.  Enjoy the show! Tommy & Scott

Ahoy mates!Becky talks about her lovely cruise through Alaska aboard Majestic Princess! The first day was packed with getting settled into a cabin, becoming familiar with the ship, a fun sailaway, and a fantastic dinner.Majestic Princess was built in 2017 and carries just over 3500 passengers and another 1200-1300 in crew. It has 19 decks that include inside cabins, balcony cabins, mini-suites, and suites. Becky traveled in a balcony cabin which is great for seeing the beauty of Alaska while sailing in and out of the many ports of call.Becky was a guest of Princess Cruises and the Porsche Club of America as they gathered for their annual meeting — PCA Treffen at Sea! What a fun event! And if you're a member, please consider joining in next year (in August) for the next chapter of PCA Treffen at Sea!DON'T FORGET:Becky's book is out - 100 Things to Do in Tuscaloosa Before You Die. Find your copy at Barnes & Noble, online at Reedy Press (with FREE shipping), Amazon, and many Tuscaloosa businesses. FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA!!Facebook: Facebook.com/TheTravelVoiceByBeckyInstagram: @TheTravelVoiceByBeckyX (formerly Twitter): @amom4uTikTok: @TheTravelVoiceByBeckyThank you to our AMAZING show sponsor Alpine Helen-White County Convention and Visitor's Bureau!! Plan your trip to the beautiful Bavarian Village of Helen, Georgia nestled right in the heart of the Bue Ridge Mountains. Visit HelenGA.org for more information. .Check out other advertising friends with fabulous destinations as well!Spectrum Resorts - Gulf Shores (Beach Club Resort and Spa) and Orange Beach, AL (Turquoise Place) offers the best in luxury and family-friendly accommodations and amenities. Visit SpectrumResorts.com for more information or to book your stay.Sevierville, TN is the hometown of Dolly Parton and the gateway to your Great Smoky Mountains National Park vacation! Get ready for BIG adventure, FABULOUS food, and UNIQUE shopping. Find out more at VisitSevierville.com.

This week on The Joy of Cruising Podcast, it is my pleasure to welcome a special guest, Chef Rudi Sodamin, Princess Cruises' first Head of Culinary Arts, along with his role as Master Chef for Holland America Line (HAL). If you have cruised on HAL, Princess Cruises, or on Carnival Cruise Line's Excel-class ships you may have been fortunate to have experienced Chef Rudi's specialty restaurants. On HAL Chef Rudi led the highly successful launch of Rudi's Sel de Mer restaurant onboard Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam (which I look forward to try as I have Rotterdam booked. Furthermore, Sel de Mer is run as a "pop-up" one night per cruise in the Pinnacle Grill on most of the remaining HAL ships. Rudi's Sel de Mer is an intimate brasserie featuring classic French dishes reimagined with contemporary flair. A signature dish is whole Dover sole meunière with shaved pink Himalayan sea salt. Carnival Cruise Corporation was so impressed by Chef Rudi's concept, that they commissioned him to create Rudi's Seagrill for its new Excel-class—Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee. In 2023 Chef Rudi partnered with Princess Cruises, to create The Catch by Rudi on Enchanted Princess, Majestic Princess,Sky Princess, Discovery Princess, and the just-released Sun Princess—which I am particularly excited about because I am booked on her also. There is so much more I can say about Chef Rudi, but that would take away from the time we can spend with him, so I will save the rest for our discussion.Support the show

In the 177th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are talking Princess Cruises this time around!  And no, not Disney Princess Cruises on a Disney ship with Belle and Aurora... the actual Princess Cruises brand, and d$'s recent sailing to the Pacific Northwest aboard the Majestic Princess! First, Jenn chats a little about packing for her upcoming WDW trip (which at the time of this episode's release, will be pretty much over...) and Dave talks about "Boo'ing" his neighbor kids... then, a deep dive into the Majestic Princess cruise! Dave and his lovely wife Stephanie were able to swing taking a 7 night cruise leaving out of Vancouver, so he runs down their flight across the country, traveling to the port, and embarkation. They give travel tips along the way (like, if you have the chance to just Uber... DO IT), as well as port tips and cruise tidbits. Dave also gives a review of the ship and the experience itself, including what was awesome, like the staff, and what needs a little work (needing some more USB ports!), why Princess Plus is cool, using the medallion, getting on a Cruise game show, checking out the ports, and how will the internet work in the North Pacific?? Also... who is this cruise for? That ultimate question and much more answered in this great conversation! 

In the 175th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave turns out to be No Jenn Just Dave today... as Jenn (and Friend of the Show #KylaKylaKyla) are returning from their trip in London & Paris -- at recording time, they were flying out, and at the time you listen, they'll be home, recovering from jetlag! Dave takes the show solo today, first briefly touching on his Majestic Princess cruise from last week, then "hopping" on all the big news released this week, including the big news that Park Hopping rules of "Only after 2p" are going to be dropped on January 9th, adding to the other big events of that day, including Park Pass Reservations going away and Disney Dining Plan coming back. He also gives a short list of things he wishes Disney would bring back (Express anyone?) and then runs through the list of the Candlelight Processional narrators revealed recently, and the dining package that goes with it. Finally, in an off-the-cuff chat, a quick word of encouragement via a Walt quote, regarding all the craziness of the world today. 

Hi Folks,I'm emailing you from Alaska aboard The Majestic Princess !  We are having a great time and fabulous weather too!  I was able to record Episode 59 of The NY Irish Hour.  So many new recordings out.  Enjoy!Part 1: Brandon McPhee with Foster & Allen (New Single), The High Kings (New Release), Tiny Green Island (Debut Single), Screaming Orphans (New Release), Me (Lastest Album)Part 2: Patricia Maguire, The Murphys with Michael English (New Single), Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfetones, Kate Purcell, The Derina Harvey Band, (New Release & a Seamus Pick)Part 3: Derek Ryan, Bernie Heaney, The Tumbling Paddies, Niall Teague & Padriac Joyce (New Single), Ciaran Cooney (Debut Release)Support the show

Episode 141 overviewIn Episode 141, You wouldn't believe how many kg's of Fresh produce P&O have sourced in WA in the 2 months that Pacific Explorer has called Fremantle home. From melons to milk, we share it all and delve into the produce used on Holland America Line's recent world cruise. Chris shares some further history around P&O Australia and challenges Baz with a listener's Fact or Fiction PLUS the latest cruise news from around the world.Fast FactsDuring her two-month home season in WA, 40,000 litres of fresh milk and 100,000 kilograms of local produce are used on board, including:30,000 kgs of melons10,000 kgs of tomatoes9,000 kgs of potatoes8,000 kgs of lettuce6,000 kgs of carrots4,000 kgs of apples3,000 kgs of eggplantSupport 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/gjs7jXXjCruise NewsOceania Vista officially named and christenedOceania Cruises' leadership team including Founder Frank Del Rio, stood alongside celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis – God Mother, as they christened our highly anticipated first Allura Class ship, Vista. Being the first new ship to our fleet in over a decade, the 67,000 tonne masterpiece was everything and more that staff, crew, guests and travel partners alike could have imagined. If you missed the live event, click the link below to watch the recording of the christening, including the bottle-breaking ceremony.https://vimeo.com/826284546/9062172fd6?share=copyCarnival Ship Helps Group After Boat CapsizesCarnival Dream's crew helped rescue 17 people stranded in the Belize Channel Wednesday, after the group's boat capsized. Carnival Dream was heading for Cozumel, Mexico, when the ship's officers spotted the capsized boat and the group in distress.Carnival Dream Captain Francesco Fiorentino's officers and crew immediately alerted the Belize Coast Guard, lowered one of its shipboard tenders into the water in conjunction with local Belize tenders, and helped to safely recovered all 17 people.Each member of the group rescued was in good condition before a transfer with the Belize Coast Guard was coordinated.Carnival Dream resumed its voyage, continuing on to Cozumel as scheduled. The ship departed Galveston, Tex. May 14 for a six-day sailing, and will return May 20.Explora Journeys Announces Owner's Residence On Board Explora IExplora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, today unveiled the design of its Owner's Residence on board EXPLORA I, the first of up to six luxury ships. The Owner's Residence creates the largest living space on board, featuring multiple harmonious spaces to relax, entertain and unwind while enjoying panoramic ocean views from the private outdoor terrace, extending over the full ship's width.The luxurious living space spans over 280 sqm (3,014 sq ft), comprising a spacious suite area of 155 sqm (1,668 sq ft) and a 125 sqm (1,345 sq ft) outdoor terrace, complete with an infinity whirlpool and a dining table for eight guests.In addition, guests staying in the Owner's Residence will enjoy roundtrip home to airport ground transfers, a complimentary pre- or post-journey hotel night, and roundtrip transfers from/to hotel and port. They will also have one private driver ashore subject to availability, and unlimited priority reservations for all culinary venues.The Owner's Residence on board EXPLORA I is available for a maximum capacity of three adults or two adults and one child under 18 years old.The naming ceremony for EXPLORA I will take place in Civitavecchia near Rome, Italy on 8 July, followed by her Maiden Journey departing on 17 July from Southampton, UK for a 15-night sailing into Norwegian fjords and the Arctic Circle to Copenhagen, Denmark.Swan Hellenic, Philippe Cousteau Foundation and SDG4MED Join Forces to Restore Ocean HealthSwan Hellenic's environmentally advanced expedition cruise ship SH Vega hosted the signing ceremony of an agreement by which Swan Hellenic, the Philippe Cousteau Foundation and SDG4MED engage to contribute jointly to the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030”. Under the agreement, Swan Hellenic commits to provide its fleet for use as “ships of opportunity”, enabling the foundations' scientists to gauge the health of our Blue Planet in its most remote and pristine regions, including Arctic, Antarctica and Africa coasts, where the Swan Hellenic fleet is, of course present for several months every year.In late 2021, the European Parliament and the Council of the EU mandated the Commission to accelerate Ocean and Water health conservation and restoration worldwide. The resulting EU Mission is a coordinated effort to pool the necessary financial, scientific and operational resources.The three organisations were among the first in the world to endorse the Mission Charter, which aims to create a sustainable, carbon-neutral, circular blue economy that plays a key role in achieving climate neutrality, since the oceans are major carbon sinks, protect biodiversity and foster economic prosperity, being expected to generate €2.5 trillion per year by 2030. The Mission 2030 targets include a 30% reduction in marine microplastics and the deployment of EU carbon neutral, circular blue economy communities.Costa partners with bioLNG powered truck to supply Costa Firenze in northern Europe Costa Cruises has signed an agreement with LC3 Trasporti to start using bio-LNG-powered trucks to transport supplies needed by its cruise ships.The collaboration between the two Italian companies will officially begin on May 19, when the Costa Firenze ship will call for the first time in the port of Kiel, Germany, from where she will depart weekly until mid-September to offer seven-day cruises to the Norwegian fjords.The supply of goods needed by the ship, such as some types of food, beverages, and technical supplies, will be transported from Costa Cruises' warehouses in Genoa to Kiel using LC3 Transport trucks powered by bio-LNG, the liquefied biomethane obtained by refining waste from the livestock industry.The use of this alternative fuel for the road transport of goods will cut CO2 emissions by almost 90 percent, and particulate emissions by almost 100 percent as compared to a conventional Euro VI diesel vehicle.Holland America Line's First Grand World Voyage Since 2020 Successfully Concludes after 128 Days, 57 Port Visits and 34,651 Nautical MilesHolland America Line's 2023 Grand World Voyage concluded today at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 128 days after it departed from the port Jan. 3, 2023. This is the first Grand World Voyage the cruise line has operated since 2020 and the 59th since its first world cruise departed aboard Statendam Jan. 7, 1958.During Zuiderdam's journey around the world, the ship visited 57 ports in 30 countries on four continents and cruised 35,651 nautical miles (39,875 land miles). Highlights included funds raised for Bernhard Nordkamp Centre in Namibia, Africa; blankets knitted by guests for Project Linus; and celebrating the company's 150th Anniversary in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, with Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha.Guests Raise Funds and Knit for a CauseZuiderdam guests raised $10,000 for The Bernhard Nordkamp Centre in Namibia, which was presented to the organization during the ship's call at Walvis Bay. The BNC services approximately 150 kids in grades one through seven who come in after their school day to receive support, food, additional education and positive social interaction.Continuing a tradition that began more than a decade ago on the Grand World Voyage, guests made 618 blankets for Project Linus throughout the sailing. Nearly 75 blanketeers and 20 non-knitting volunteers participated in the Project Linus endeavor this year. With yarn brought on by guests, donated prior to departure and funds given by Holland America Line, guests of all knitting and crocheting abilities made blankets for children in the United States who are ill, traumatized or otherwise in need.Organized this year by guests Gail and Marty Gottlieb, the couple drove a U-Haul truck to Port Everglades for the start of the Grand World Voyage with one-million yards of yarn in over 40 different colors, along with hooks, needles and ball winders. The blankets will be picked up by the local South Florida chapter of Project Linus at the port.Themed Events and Culinary DelightsDuring the voyage, guests dressed to the nines for events that featured a Grand Masquerade, Derby Night, Casino Royale, Mardi Gras Night of Music and “Once Upon a Time.”  More than a dozen casual, themed evenings around Lido pool included a glamp out, Burgers and Beer, Grand Fair, surprise party with the ship's team members, Biergarten Festival, “Let Them Eat Cake” and “An Evening in France.”2023 Grand World Voyage Highlights and Fun Facts:Zuiderdam visited imaginary Null Island (0°N/S & 0°E/W) where the equator crosses the Prime Meridian and visitors became an Emerald Shellback, the rarest shellback (a sailor who has crossed the equator) designation.On April 18, Antorcha visited the ship in Amsterdam during an overnight call to celebrate the company's 150th Anniversary.Guests indulged in 31,248 bottles of wine and champagne.200,606 lbs. of fresh vegetables and 173,903 lbs. of fresh fruit were consumed.40,905 fresh eggs were scrambled, poached and used as ingredients.Guests drank 133,293 soft drinks.The ship served nearly 200,000 lbs. of meat (beef, pork, lamb, poultry, veal).Guests enjoyed 56,306 lbs. of seafood.7,793 tea bags were used to brew a cuppa, as well as 3,277 bags of coffee.More than $200,000 in foreign currencies were exchanged.New Star Princess and Sun Princess Headline 2025 Europe Cruises & Cruisetours Season as Princess Cruises Celebrates 40th Anniversary Sailing in the MediterraneanPrincess Cruises is celebrating its 40th anniversary sailing the Mediterranean by featuring two of its newest and largest ships there in 2025 – Star Princess and Sun Princess.The 2025 cruises and cruisetours season offers travellers looking for the ultimate European adventure abundant natural beauty, history and traditions, combined with diverse cultures, all while enjoying a relaxed, stress-free travel experience on six beautiful Princess cruise ships: NEW! Star Princess and NEW! Sun Princess, plus Majestic Princess, Sky Princess, Regal Princess and Emerald Princess.Voyages aboard ships sailing out of Southampton UK (London) in 2025 – Sky Princess, Regal Princess and Emerald Princess – go on sale May 25, while sailings on Mediterranean-based ships – Star Princess (NEW), Sun Princess (NEW) and Majestic Princess go on sale June 1.Princess first set sail in the Mediterranean in 1985, and to celebrate the 40th anniversary the new Star Princess joins sister-ship Sun Princess in the Mediterranean for her debut season of cruising. Her maiden voyages depart August 4, 2025, sailing a nine-day Grand Mediterranean voyage to Italy and Greece roundtrip from Rome, followed by a variety of 10-day cruises, also roundtrip from Rome, that visit iconic destinations such as Florence, Barcelona and Mykonos.Both of the cruise line's newest ships offer next-generation features, host 4,300 guests, offer more than 1,500 balconies and 29 restaurants and bars throughout 21 decks. Their ground-breaking design centres on a glass sphere that infuses the Piazza with light and connects guests with dynamic views of the world. Another standout venue is The Dome, a cutting-edge top-deck entertainment space inspired by the tiered cliffs of Santorini.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/ Co-host: 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.

Two Princess Cruise Ships Cancel Cruises is part of the lead story on Monday Travel and Cruise Industry News, April 10, 2023 with Chillie Falls. Cruises were cancelled on Ruby Princess as well as Majestic Princess due to weather issues on both sides of the world. Also today, Peace World Sails After 3 Years; Carnival Extends HESS; and much more today LIVE at 11 AM EDT. CLICK HERE to access video feed #scootaround #rubyprincess #majesticprincess #carnivalHESS #peaceworld Thanks for visiting my channel. Unsold inside, oceanview and balcony cabins for Labor Day Sapphire Princess Alaska Cruise. Details here: https://bit.ly/3XSeLWw NYTimes The Daily, the flagship NYT podcast with a massive audience. "Vacationing In The Time Of Covid" https://nyti.ms/3QuRwOS Chillie Chats with Sylvia Longmire, Ambassador for Scootaround and WHILL Powerchairs https://youtu.be/VovRJ5Fh1I8 To access the Travel and Cruise Industry News podcast; https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/travelcruisenews or go to https://accessadventure.net/ 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 SRN11137 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: chillie@chilliefalls.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 Disability Advocate Kristy Durso https://youtube.com/live/ox0JRylxmok Chillie Chats With Special Guest Kevin Martin, 30 And A Wake Up https://youtube.com/live/7Q5AFPDD0YY 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Princess Cruises to Alaska 2022 Review. Real Travel Experts Linda and Rich Skinner of Cruise Holidays of Woodinville join Ken to review their latest cruise, a seven-day southbound Alaska cruise with Princess Cruises aboard the "Majestic Princess". Linda and Rich detail the day-to-day itinerary with stops in Juneau, Icy Strait, Ketchikan, plus cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier. Linda and Rich provide great cruise tips and advice for potential Alaska cruisers and for folks wanting to add a land portion to their cruise. Rich explains Princess Cruise's latest technology, the Medallion Class, and its benefits. Linda details the her number one cruise tip for Alaska: you must have a veranda. All this, plus a sneak peek about a former Love Boat crew member joining RTE- Travel Talk in an upcoming episode. Contact Real Travel Experts: questions@realtravelexperts.com https://realtravelexperts.com/ https://www.facebook.com/RealTravelExperts/ https://www.instagram.com/realtravelexperts/ Contact: Cruise Holidays of Woodinville : info@luxurient.com Website: https://cruiseholidaystravel.com/

"Blocked By Bali: Queen Elizabeth Experiences COVID-19 Outbreak With Hundreds Infected A number of news outlets in Australia are reporting that the Queen Elizabeth cruise ship is experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak. The country of Bali took the extraordinary step of blocking the Cunard ship from callin" "--START AD- #TheMummichogblogOfMalta Amazon Top and Flash Deals(Affiliate Link - You will support our translations if you purchase through the following link) - https://amzn.to/3CqsdJH Compare all the top travel sites in just one search to find the best hotel deals at HotelsCombined - awarded world's best hotel price comparison site. (Affiliate Link - You will support our translations if you purchase through the following link) - https://www.hotelscombined.com/?a_aid=20558 “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."""" #Jesus #Catholic. Smooth Radio Malta is Malta's number one digital radio station, playing Your Relaxing Favourites - Smooth provides a ‘clutter free' mix, appealing to a core 35-59 audience offering soft adult contemporary classics. We operate a playlist of popular tracks which is updated on a regular basis. https://smooth.com.mt/listen/ Follow on Telegram: https://t.me/themummichogblogdotcom END AD---" "g at port. Neither the cruise operator (Cunard) nor ship owner (Carnival Corporation) would disclose the number of infected passengers or crew members. The Sydney Morning Herald reported that Cunard admitted “there was an ‘elevated level of transmission' on board, but declined to provide case numbers.” The Sydney Morning Herald states that authorities in Indonesian requested the Queen Elizabeth to abandon the Balinese leg of its 17-day tour, following a COVID-19 outbreak on board. “The Queen Elizabeth left Sydney on November 15, stopping at Airlie Beach, Cairns, Port Douglas and Darwin, but will cut short the final week of its tour and head straight to Fremantle.” ABC News in Australia reports that the “WA (West Australia) government said it had received information that 10 to 15 percent of the people on board are COVID-positive.” With nearly 2,100 passengers and a crew of around 1,000, that means that between 310 and 465 people on the Cunard ship were positive for COVID-19. The Australian newspaper added that the “abandonment of the ship's Bali tour follows the berthing of the Majestic Princess in Sydney earlier this month, carrying 800 COVID-positive passengers and crew.” There has been a trend of cruise ships calling on Australian ports in the last month with a significant number of passengers and crew members positive for COVID-19: Majestic Princess – 800 infected guests (Sydney); Quantum of the Seas – 400 infected guests (heading toward Queensland) Coral Princess – 290 infected guests and crew (Fremantle); Grand Princess – 200 infected guests (Melbourne); Ovation of the Seas – 129 infected guests and 2 crew member (New Zealand) Majestic Princess – 116 infected guests (Tahiti). Have a question or comment? Please leave one below or join the discussion on our Facebook page. Photo Credit: Queen Elizabeth – Screen grab 9 News Australia. https://www.cruiselawnews.com/2022/11/articles/disease/hundreds-infected-with-covid-19-on-queen-elizabeth-cruise-ship/ "

Sydney'de demirleyen ve 800 dolayında Covid -19 hastasının bulunduğu turistik geminin yolcularına, gemiden ayrılırken toplu taşıma araçlarını kullanmamaları talimatı verildi. Yeni Zelanda'dan yola çıkan Majestic Princess adlı yolcu gemisinin 12 günlük yolculuğunun ortalarında çok sayıda yolcuya Covid bulaştığı tespit edildi.

About 800 passengers on board the Majestic Princess contracted the virus with the cases starting to appear about halfway through a 12-day voyage around New Zealand.

Episode 119 Overview In 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 […]

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.

The Majestic Princess glided into the Port of Tauranga over the weekend, with over 3560 passengers on-board. It was a momentous occasion met with fanfare from businesses, as the first cruise ship on New Zealand shores for the summer season. But the industry has come under scrutiny in the past. University of Auckland senior lecturer in urban planning Dr Timothy Welch spoke to Guyon Espiner.

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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Episode 98In episode 98, Chris answers a listener question from Ann about the history of the Cunard Class System (Britannia, Princess & Queens), plus the usual round-up of the latest cruise news from around the world.Suport 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 from Garry Stafford in SydneyListener QuestionAnn asks Chris about the history of the Cunard class system, eg, Britannia, Princess and Queens. Cruise NewsP&O Cruises Australia Welcomes the Return of Ni Vanuatu Crew Onboard Pacific ExplorerP&O Cruises Australia is proud and excited to welcome back our Ni Vanuatu team mates to work onboard our first ship to start sailing from Australia in more than two years.P&O Cruises has always valued its strong relationship with Vanuatu and is the only cruise line in the world to employ Ni Vanuatu team mates onboard our ships.The first Ni Vanuatu crew left Vila this morning to join the P&O Cruises flagship, Pacific Explorer, which will begin carrying guests from May 31.PONANT welcomes Le Lapérouse in Darwin ahead of Kimberley season kick-offPonant this week announced the arrival of small expedition ship Le Lapérouse into Darwin, Northern Territory, following a 2-year pandemic stand-by in Noumea.With operations resuming 28 April 2022, the monumental moment comes as Le Lapérouse anticipates setting sail for PONANT's highly anticipated Kimberley 2022 season, operating between Darwin and Broome.Le Lapérouse will be accompanied late May in the Kimberley by small luxury expedition ship Le Soléal, PONANT's second expedition vessel showcasing the wild and grandiose landscapes of the Kimberley across multiple departures of their popular 10-night ‘Australia's Iconic Kimberley' luxury expedition itinerary between April and September this year. Due to high demand, PONANT has recently released two new sailings available for booking, departing on 28 May and 7 June on board Le Soléal.Discovery Princess Officially Named by TV Star GodparentsIn an imaginative ceremony on 29 April 2022 at the Port of Los Angeles, television stars and show hosts united as godparents and officially named Discovery Princess. The godparents included fashion designer Randy Fenoli, chef Alex Guarnaschelli, special effects designer and fabricator Adam Savage, and real estate broker and flipper extraordinaire Page Turner.Standing together at the Retreat Pool on the open deck of Discovery Princess with the ship's Captain Gennaro Arma, they pronounced, “We name this ship Discovery Princess. May God bless her and all who sail on her.” They then sent a giant Nebuchadnezzar-size bottle of champagne against the ship for the celebratory smash, officially welcoming Discovery Princess into the fleet of Princess Cruises, the world's leading international cruise line and leader on the west coast.The “Discover Our World” themed ceremony blended maritime tradition with contemporary elements, celebrating the cruise line's exclusive, seven-year Discovery at SEA™ program – bringing the spirit of curiosity and exploration to every cruise through branded experiences like Shark Week at Sea, exclusive shore excursions and onboard activities such as the Camp Discovery youth centers and Stargazing at SEA.Discovery Princess expands the cruise line's fleet of MedallionClass ships to 15, offering elegantly appointed accommodations, world-class entertainment, gourmet dining and cocktails, extensive alfresco dining areas and expansive views from the cruise line's largest balconies at sea in the Sky Suites.The 3,660-guest Discovery Princess was built at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, and is the sixth and final Royal-Class newbuild sharing all of the spectacular style and luxury of her sister ships – Enchanted Princess® Sky Princess®, Majestic Princess®, Regal Princess® and Royal Princess®.Costa Venezia – Home Ported in TurkeyCosta Venezia's new cruises to Turkey and Greece will make their debut from Istanbul on May 1. This is an absolute novelty in the current panorama of organized holidays, which marks the collaboration between Costa Cruises, Turkish Airlines, the Turkish National Tourist Board and Galataport Istanbul.The proposed formula is the “flight+cruise” package, available from all the main European countries, with scheduled Turkish Airlines flights, which will make it possible to reach Istanbul easily, and then embark on board of Costa Venezia from the new Galataport cruise terminal, equipped with all the comforts and services for the next generation of ships.Costa Venezia's program in Turkey includes three different itineraries, all with embarkation and disembarkation in Istanbul, designed to include longer calls in the ports to enjoy the destinations with plenty of time, among cities rich in history, splendid archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage sites and crystal clear seas.In spring, summer and autumn, from 1 May to 13 November 2022, Costa Venezia will offer two one-week itineraries dedicated to Turkey and Greece, interchanging with each other, which can be combined into a single 15-day “super tour”, with 8 calls in port longer than 10 hours.The first itinerary is ideal for those who want to explore the best of Turkey and Greece in one holiday. It includes a two-day, one-night call in Istanbul, the beautiful Turkish destinations of Izmir and Bodrum, the island of Mykonos and Athens in Greece.The second itinerary allows to explore some of Greece's out-of-the-ordinary locations and the best of Turkey. It includes two two-day, one-night calls in Istanbul and Kusadasi, Turkey, before heading off to explore Rhodes and Heraklion, Greece. In winter 2022-23, Costa Venezia will be offering a third 12-day itinerary to Turkey, Egypt, Israel and Cyprus, visiting Istanbul (with a two-day, one-night call), Bodrum, Limassol, Haifa (also with a two-day, one-night call), Alexandria and Kusadasi. From spring 2023, the two itineraries in Turkey and Greece will resume.Holland America Line Wins ‘Best Beverage Menu' for New Concept Half Moon BarHolland America Line took home a win for “Best Beverage Menu' for its newest onboard bar —  Half Moon Bar —  at the 2022 VIBE Vista Awards that were presented during the VIBE (Very Important Beverage Executives) conference this week in Carlsbad, California.Holland America Line's Half Moon Bar is a new concept for the brand that was exclusively introduced aboard its most recent ship, Rotterdam, which launched in November 2021. The venue is an immersive experience looking at the history of Holland America Line and cruising through the lens of a cocktail. Each drink comes with a fascinating tale of its inspiration that is vividly described in the bar menu for guests to peruse.The creative cocktails at Half Moon Bar aim to take guests back in time, on a journey though Holland America Line's history. Drinks on the menu include:“The Original” celebrates the line's first ship, Rotterdam I, made with a Dutch gin and a hint of single malt Scotch, ingredients inspired by the building of the ship and Holland America Line's Dutch beginnings.“De Halve Moon” is an ode to the Dutch sense of exploration and the botanical wonderland Henry Hudson found in present-day New York, made with Old Duff genever, lemon rosewater shrub and DDG Bitters.“Three Mile Run” is a prohibition cocktail that tells the story of Holland America Line Prohibition-era cruises to nowhere for New Yorkers, where cocktail bars on the ship could be legally open. It is made from a combination of lemon, honey and gin for a Bee's Knees, whiskey for a Gold Rush or rum for a Honey Bee.“May She Be Blessed” is an ode to the godmothers who bless the Holland America Line ships, made with champagne and a choice of essence.“Rotterdam VII” is dedicated to its namesake ship and the ship's unique blend of tradition and innovation, made with smoked gin and maraschino cocktail.Rotterdam is currently approaching Europe where she will home port from Amsterdam on voyages throughout Northern Europe.PLUS Holland America Line this week announced that Westerdam will be redeployed from Asia to Australia with Itineraries announced soon.NCL Elevates Spa offering on Prima and Viva Norwegian Cruise Line, today shared details surrounding its elevated spa and fitness offerings for its highly-anticipated Norwegian Prima Class vessels – Norwegian Prima and Viva.The first two of six ships within this cutting-edge class will feature the cruise industry's first charcoal sauna at sea as well as a two-story cascading indoor spa waterfall. The Cruise Line has also incorporated several guest favourites including thermal experiences and hot-stone loungers.Industry's First Charcoal Sauna at SeaAs part of the ongoing only-found-on-NCL's Prima Class holiday experiences such as the world's first three-level racetrack at sea and dry drop slides, the Brand will unveil the industry's first charcoal sauna. Derived from Japanese and Korean wellness practices, the charcoal sauna uses a radiant heat system with an outer charcoal layer to reach temperatures between 86-122 degrees Fahrenheit (30-50oC). Guests can recline into relaxation as the sauna helps boost circulation and metabolism while also removing toxins from the body. The sauna also effectively treats muscle stiffness and tension, including relief from backache, headache, and arthritis, by promoting the deep release of connective tissue and muscles. Thermal ExperiencesThe charcoal sauna is just one of eight thermal spa offerings available at the elevated Mandara Spa. Guests can also indulge in a series of blissful experiences such as a salt and steam room, as well as a gambit of Brand-first spa experiences including an Ice Room, Experiential Showers, a Flotation Salt Pool and Infrared Sauna.The Ice Room: After unwinding in the sauna or steam bath, guests can cool off in the refreshing Ice Room. The cold air helps to increase blood circulation, invigorate the respiratory tract, and strengthen the immune system.  The Experiential Showers: Multiple water jets and lighting effects help invigorate the body, lower body temperature, and stimulate blood circulation.Floatation Salt Pool: This treatment allows guests to fully relax all of their muscles while floating in warm water. An experience similar to experiencing zero gravity due to the buoyancy of the saltwater, the Floatation Salt Pool is beneficial for easing mental anxiety and muscle tension.  Infrared Sauna: Unlike traditional saunas that use conventional heat to warm the air, infrared saunas utilise infrared lamps to directly warm the body — and at lower temperatures than traditional saunas. This promotes relaxation, better sleep, sore muscle and joint relief, improved blood circulation, and detoxification.Royal Caribbean Group and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Recommit to PartnershipRoyal Caribbean Group, announced its new commitment to the next phase of its ongoing partnership with World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for guidance and counsel in establishing bold environmental goals and sustainable business practices.Royal Caribbean Group first partnered with WWF in 2016. Since then, WWF has advised Royal Caribbean Group to embed sustainability into the core of the company's business and across the industry, promote responsible tourism in priority coastal destinations and help protect the oceans by investing in conservation programs globally.This year, WWF and Royal Caribbean Group will work together to establish sustainability goals across three key areas of Ship, Sea and Shore:Ship — Continuous improvement of operational sustainability, including emissions, marine mammal protection, seafood sourcing, plastics reduction, and food waste.Sea — Investing in ocean health through targeted philanthropy; engaging with a global science-driven agenda and consumer-facing education and fundraising campaigns.Shore — Embedding principles of sustainable development in projects and increasing sustainability and certification of tour operators.Royal Caribbean Group will also continue to provide financial support to WWF's global ocean conservation work through a $5 million philanthropic contribution and collaborate with WWF to build global awareness about ocean conservation issues among Royal Caribbean Group's millions of guests.From ‘Hocus Pocus' to ‘Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo,' Disney Cruise Line Puts a Spell on New Experiences for Halloween on the High SeasFirst-of-its-kind character meet and greet inspired by “Hocus Pocus” awaits guests across the fleetHalloween on the High Seas will return to Disney Cruise Line with more sailings than ever before and new one-of-a-kind experiences for families in September and October 2022. Guest-favorite entertainment and activities, including trick-or-treating, spooky parties, elaborate décor and themed food and beverage items, will await guests on these limited-time voyages as each ship transforms into a ghoulish wonderland.First-of-its-kind character meet and greetDisney Cruise Line guests will be the first to experience an all-new character meet and greet opportunity across the fleet during Halloween on the High Seas sailings. While all of the Disney characters on board will adorn Halloween costumes as part of the festivities, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck and Clarabelle Cow will debut a never-before-seen look as they dress up as their favorite Halloween sisters, the Sandersons from the movie “Hocus Pocus.”Disney Wish debuts all-new magical Pumpkin TreeDuring its inaugural season of Halloween cruises this fall, the Disney Wish, the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, will introduce a unique twist on a Halloween on the High Seas hallmark.The centerpiece of every ship during Halloween sailings is the signature magical Pumpkin Tree towering over the atrium lobby, each with sprouting Jack-O-Lanterns and flickering lights.Aboard the Disney Wish, guests will witness the debut of an all-new Pumpkin Tree in the “Cinderella”-inspired Grand Hall. Featuring lighter bark, graceful branches and a mystical face, this enchanted tree that grew perfect gourds with the help of a Wishing Star at night produced the perfect pumpkin that became the coach that carried Cinderella to the Prince's Ball.Other special experiences on Halloween on the High Seas sailings include:Mickey's Mouse-querade Party: Beloved Disney characters in Halloween attire will join guests for a fun-filled costume party.Halloween Isn't Just For Kids: Adult-exclusive venues across the fleet will become a ghoulish setting for costume contests and a Villainous Takeover on the dance floor.Spooky Movies: To get guests into the spirit of the season, Halloween-themed movies will be shown on Funnel Vision by the family pool and in staterooms.Ghoulish Delights: Guests will enjoy special themed food and beverage items.More spooky fun includes mask-making and a ghostly takeover of ship announcements.Halloween on the High Seas voyages will be offered aboard select sailings in September and October. Departing from ports in Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida, San Diego and New York City, each cruise will take families to fascinating destinations including the Bahamas, Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and Mexico. All sailings from Port Canaveral and Miami will include a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island paradise outfitted for family fun and relaxation and brimming with special Disney touches.Disney Cruise Line Celebrates Summer 2023Disney Cruise Line will offer families a variety of enchanting vacations in summer 2023, including cruises to new and favourite ports of call around the world. From the majestic glaciers of Alaska to the sun-kissed Greek isles, pink sand beaches of Bermuda and picturesque fjords of Norway, these summer destinations will sparkle with adventure and excitement. Plus, for the first time ever, families will have the opportunity to sail around the Mediterranean and British Isles on the Disney Dream during its first season in Europe. Bookings open 9 May 2022.Disney Dream Marks Inaugural Season in EuropeFor its first-ever summer season in Europe, the Disney Dream will call on a wide variety of destinations among the most treasured in the world. With sailings anywhere from four to 11 nights, the Disney Dream will sail from Barcelona and Rome to picturesque ports of call throughout the Mediterranean, including a first-ever seven-night sailing to the Greek Isles with stops in the ever-popular ports of Santorini and Mykonos.Late summer/early fall departures of the Disney Dream from Southampton will feature cruises to a wealth of destinations including Spain, France, the British Isles, Norway and Iceland. New ports of call include the postcard-worthy La Rochelle, France and two new ports in Norway – Skjolden, home to a wealth of natural attractions, and Sandnes, a small city just outside the metropolis of Stavanger known for its outdoor activities.  Summer 2023 sailings to Alaska aboard Disney WonderThe breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska will combine with the magic of Disney on five-, seven- and nine-night sailings on the Disney Wonder from Vancouver, Canada. Beginning in May, cruisers will be invited to discover exciting ports like Ketchikan and Skagway, with their prehistoric glaciers, gold mining relics and spectacular land- and sea-life. Three Alaskan itineraries call at Icy Strait Point, home to a coastal rainforest, wilderness tours and – for thrill-seekers – ziplining above the treetops.Tropical Escapes to the Bahamas and Caribbean from FloridaSun-splashed tropical isles throughout the Bahamas and Caribbean will await guests on three Disney Cruise Line ships from Florida in summer 2023.For its first full summer of sailing, the Disney Wish will homeport in Port Canaveral near Orlando for a series of three- and four-night Bahamas cruises to Nassau and Disney's private island oasis, Castaway Cay. The Disney Wish will feature exciting new additions including Disney's first “Frozen”-themed theatrical dining experience and AquaMouse, a wild water adventure and first-ever Disney attraction at sea.Port Canaveral will also be the departure point for the Disney Fantasy for sailings ranging in length from five to 10 nights. In addition to seven-night cruises to popular ports in the eastern and western Caribbean, guests will also be able to experience a five-night Bahamian sailing with back-to-back calls at Castaway Cay, a 10-night southern Caribbean itinerary to the islands of Aruba and Bonaire and an eight-night cruise featuring two days on the beautiful pink sand beaches of Bermuda.The Disney Magic will make its summer home in Miami for an assortment of exciting destinations. Starting May 27, the Disney Magic will sail four-night Bahamas cruises and five-night western Caribbean voyages, followed by two seven-night sailings in July to the eastern and western Caribbean. Select summer voyages aboard the Disney Magic will include double days – for double the fun – at Castaway Cay.AIDA Cruises opens season in Kiel with AIDAlunaAIDAluna is the first AIDA ship to arrived in Kiel this season on April 25, 2022. A total of four ships in the AIDA Cruises fleet will depart from the Schleswig-Holstein state capital for the great North Country adventure.From April 25, 2022, AIDAluna will offer the 17-day voyages “Highlights at the Arctic Circle,” which are particularly popular among lovers of the North. Ideal for tasting are the 3- or 4-day short trips to Norway or Denmark in September. A total of 15 different routes from Kiel are available.AIDAprima will arrive in Kiel on April 29, 2022, and will depart four times in April and May for Norway and Denmark.AIDAnova offers seven-day voyages to Norway and Denmark from May 14, 2022 until mid-October. In addition to a visit to the Danish capital Copenhagen and Kristiansand in Norway, AIDAnova guests can enjoy the very special flair of the midsummer nights during a two-day stay in the Norwegian capital Oslo. On individual sailings, AIDAnova calls at a new AIDA port: Denmark's Skagen, City of Light. Endless beaches and the country's largest shifting sand dune, from which only the tower of the silted-up parish church still peeks out, attract visitors.Starting May 15, 2022, AIDAbella will embark on 14-day voyages to the Lofoten Islands and the North Cape, and will also call at Great Britain and Iceland.Atlas Ocean Voyages includes COVID Insurance for all guestsAtlas Ocean Voyages announced today that the luxe-adventure cruise line will include Covid trip interruption and isolation insurance for all guests on all future voyages. The new Covid insurance coverage for all guests augments Atlas' expansive list of inclusions, among which are emergency medical evacuation insurance, repatriation insurance, and emergency medical and travel assistance, known as Atlas Assurance. Atlas Assurance provides guests greater peace-of-mind when they are aboard a once-in-a-lifetime, luxe-adventure journey with Atlas Ocean Voyages.World Navigator will cruise England, Holland, France, the Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, Greenland, and The Arctic in summer 2022; Central and South America in the autumn; and return to Antarctica for her winter 2022-23 season. In winter 2023, World Traveller will sail her inaugural season in Antarctica. Three additional sister ships, World Seeker, World Adventurer and World Discoverer, will join the fleet through 2024.Cunard responds to demand for Britannia Club accommodation experience on new ship Queen AnneCunard is so confident with guest demand for their Britannia Club staterooms on new ship Queen Anne, that they have increased their volume of this accommodation category by more than 200% versus other ships in the fleet.The accommodation and dining on board Queen Anne offer upgraded levels of luxury, whatever type guests choose, from Britannia staterooms to Britannia Club through to Princess and Queens Grill Suites.Guests staying in Britannia Club, an experience unique to Cunard, will be able to dine in the dedicated Britannia Club Restaurant, which is positioned at the heart of the ship next to the atmospheric Grand Lobby, boasting breath-taking panoramic sea views. Guests will have their own dedicated table, reserved exclusively for the duration of their voyage. They can dine for breakfast, lunch and dinner, at whichever time they choose, and will be attended to by Cunard's renowned White Star Service trained crew.Queen Anne will set sail in early 2024, with her maiden season programme available to book from May 2022Azamara Onward Splashes on the SceneAzamara, will introduce its newest ship, Azamara Onward, to the world next month with a christening and maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Venice. Azamara Onward's inaugural season will take travellers to the heart of the Mediterranean, exploring its hidden gems and bringing guests closer to the true culture of each destination they visit. The new sister ship will offer guests fresh additions to its onboard venues and luxury retail spaces, as well as refreshed accommodations and new entertainment options for travellers to enjoy throughout their sailing.MSC's Journey Towards Net-Zero Emissions By 2050Having made the pledge in 2021 to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, MSC Cruises is continuously exploring and investing in new technologies that are helping to decarbonize, some with very promising results. On this journey, minimising the impact of cruises ships on port communities and their environment while berthed is key.Starting this Northern Hemisphere summer season, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Poesia will be consistently using shore power at the ports of Southampton (UK) and of Rostock-Warnemünde (Germany).MSC Cruises has also signed an agreement with Cruise Baltic to achieve widespread use of shore power in the Baltic Sea region by 2024.MSC Cruises is ready to plug into more ports. Over half the fleet is projected to be shore power compatible by the end of 2022.On top of this, MSC Cruises' first hybrid LNG ship operating with the largest solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) ever installed will be launching later this year – MSC World Europa.By the end of 2022, 11 of MSC Cruises' 21 ships – including all the new ships built since 2017 – will be fitted with shore power capability. Existing ships are currently being or will be retrofitted in the future as their itineraries take them to ports where shore power will be available.MSC announces Seascape will be christened in NYC. New York City will serve as the glittering backdrop for an extraordinary inaugural event when MSC Cruises' newest flagship – MSC Seascape – comes into service later this year. The cruise line announced plans to hold the ship's Naming Ceremony at New York's centrally located Manhattan Cruise Terminal on Wednesday, 7 December 2022. The star-studded event will bring MSC Cruises' distinctive European style and glamour to the Big Apple and will be attended by local dignitaries, important partners, top travel advisors, media from around the world, celebrities and international artists. And of course, no Naming Ceremony would be complete without Academy Award-Winning star Sophia Loren carrying out her iconic role as godmother to her 18th MSC Cruises ship.MSC Seascape will offer two different 7-night itineraries from PortMiami:Eastern Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Nassau in The Bahamas, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Puerto Plata in the Dominican RepublicWestern Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel in Mexico, George Town in the Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios in JamaicaEuropean Waterways' ‘Opera Cruise'European Waterways has a limited number of cabins available for the July 17, 2022 departure of the company's annual “Opera Cruise” in Venice. Exclusive to luxury hotel barge La Bella Vita (20 guests), the 6-night all-inclusive cruise features premium seats to a performance of George Bizet's “Carmen” at Arena di Verona Roman Amphitheatre. The cruise is an opera lover's dream, with an itinerary that brings to life the traditions, history and lore of one of the world's most enduring musical art forms. Guests will also enjoy private excursions that include a wine tasting and dinner with a countess, as well as regional wines with gourmet meals prepared onboard by their master chef.The cruise will take guests to the island of Pellestrina, where they can enjoy a sunset stroll or bicycle ride along its 18th century sea wall. A visit to Chioggia's bustling fish market is also on the itinerary, as well as cruise through the Po River Delta, a nature reserve that is home to migratory birds such as flamingos, heron, and snipe.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: Queens Grill Lounge, Cunard Line. 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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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Episode 92In episode 92 – Chris answers a listener's question around the topical subject of why P&O Ferries may look similar but are in fact not connected to P&O Cruises (UK or Australia). P&O Cruises is part of the Carnival Corporation, whilst P&O Ferries falls under a Dubai-based company DP World. And of course, we round out the show with the latest cruise news… and what a week it has been in cruise news.Image Credit: Pride of Dover, P&O Ferries, DP WorldSupport 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 NewsAustralian Cruise Ban to officially end on 17 Apr 22. P&O Cruises Australia Sets Course to Resume Cruising in May with New 2022 ProgramP&O Cruises Australia has flagged a return to cruising at the end of May, with the launch of a new 2022 program of sailings from Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne.The move follows the Federal Government's decision to lift the cruise ban from April 17 – a major development and the first critical step to enable cruising and its contribution to the national economy to resume after the two-year suspension of operations.Under the new program, Australian cruising will now resume when Pacific Explorer sails from Sydney on May 31 on a four-night roundtrip cruise to Brisbane, where the ship is scheduled to make the first call at the city's new cruise terminal on June 2. Pacific Explorer will then sail from Sydney on a series of Queensland and South Pacific cruises until late October, replacing Pacific Adventure's scheduled program. While most cruise itineraries will remain unaltered by the change of ships, a 10-night cruise to Vanuatu departing June 1 has been replaced with three shorter domestic cruises.Pacific Adventure will now begin her maiden season of cruises from Sydney on October 22, when Pacific Explorer will sail to Adelaide for a new mini-season of four cruises. Pacific Explorer will redeploy to Melbourne in November for three months, before returning to Adelaide in February 2023 for a longer season of nine cruises.Meanwhile, the Brisbane debut of Pacific Encounter has been rescheduled from June 4 to August 20, 2022, prompting the cancellation of 15 cruises.Princess Announces Restart Plans in Australia – Coral Princess to Sail from QueenslandPrincess Cruises today announced its planned resumption of cruising in Australia, with Coral Princess set to debut in Brisbane on June 16 for her inaugural season Down Under.In a move worth an estimated $60 million dollars to the Queensland economy, the 2000-guest ship will be homeported in Brisbane for 11 new departures ranging from 3-12 nights between June and August before returning for another 10 cruises this summer from November.The MedallionClass ship will make 48 calls to the State's ports this year, including her first visits to Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays, Cairns and Port Douglas.Meanwhile Coral Princess' sister ships, Grand Princess and Majestic Princess, will make a further six calls to Queensland ports as part of their scheduled Australian season sailing from Sydney and Melbourne.Highlights of the new winter program include:Six short getaway cruises from Brisbane and Sydney – perfect seacations for those with busy schedules.Five 7-day Queensland roundtrip cruises from Brisbane, sailing to Cairns, Port Douglas, and Airlie Beach (for the Whitsundays).A new 7-day New South Wales Coast roundtrip from Brisbane, with a maiden call to Eden (Sapphire Coast), Sydney, and Newcastle.A new 12-day Queensland and New South Wales voyage, sailing roundtrip from Brisbane.A new 12-day Queensland and the Conflict Islands voyage, roundtrip Sydney or Brisbane, crossing the Coral Sea to visit the stunning and remote Conflict Islands in Papua New Guinea.The winter program will be open for sale from 9am AEDT on 24 March, 2022Two Quantum Class Ships to Call Australia Home Royal Caribbean International will make its long-awaited return to Australia with two Quantum class ships sailing from Brisbane and Sydney from Oct 2022.The milestone is more than two years in the making, with both Ovation of the Seas (pictured) and Quantum of the Seas to offer a range of adventures.This season, cruisers will be able to take in the sights from North Star – the highest viewing deck on a cruise ship; or the RipCord by iFLY skydiving experience. Travellers can also catch a wave on the FlowRider surf simulator, or take to new heights on the RCI rock climbing wall.Holland America Line Speeds Up Embarkation Process with mBark Facial Recognition and VeriFLY Vaccine Verification ProgramHolland America Line is enhancing the preboarding guest experience and making embarkation easier by adding the use of mBark facial recognition and the VeriFLY vaccine verification program in all U.S., Canadian and European homeportsmBark is a mobile system that enables guests to check in for their cruise in less than 10 seconds, while the VeriFLY digital wallet for COVID-19 credentials offers a proven solution for proof of vaccination and test results.With mBark facial recognition, guests who load their photo and all necessary pretravel information to Holland America Line's website prior to embarkation will be able to use the touchless system. Following a quick face scan, guests can move through the check-in process in about 10 seconds, significantly reducing embarkation time. SKO Systems, based in London, England, designed and implemented mBark for Holland America Line.VeriFLY gives guests the option to upload the required information to the app, including proof of vaccination and test results, providing a way to go through the screening process prior to arrival at the terminal. Once registration is complete, guests simply need to show the VeriFLY QR code or “pass” (digital or printed) to the check-in agent. VeriFLY has a successful record of serving dozens of airlines, cruise lines, hotels and a variety of industries. The VeriFLY app is available for download at Google Play and the Apple App Store.Global pop superstar Katy Perry names Godmother of Norwegian PrimaNorwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, announced today that world famous pop icon and “American Idol” judge Katy Perry will serve as the godmother to its record-breaking and innovative newest ship, Norwegian Prima, debuting August 2022.As godmother, Perry will not only fulfil the longstanding maritime tradition of blessing and officially naming Norwegian Prima, the first of six vessels in the Prima Class, but she will perform during the christening ceremony before Norwegian Prima sets sail on its inaugural voyages from Reykjavík, Iceland, where the vessel will be the first major cruise ship christened in the Icelandic capital.A vital and familiar element of any ship launch and dating back centuries, the highly regarded tradition of appointing a ship's godmother is a fundamental nautical custom during which the selected godmother officiates a ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle on the ship's bow to bid the vessel and its traveller's good fortune.“My most favorite way to vacation with my family is on the water. Every morning that you wake up, you get to experience an incredible new view,” said Katy Perry “I love that I get to christen her with my good vibrations, and I'm so excited for this new, beautiful, high-end, high-tech ship to take the seas, and provide once-in-a-lifetime vacations for so many families.”Launching August 2022, Norwegian Prima will offer inaugural voyages to Northern Europe from Southampton, England; Amsterdam; and Reykjavík, Iceland beginning 12 August.; Bermuda sailings from New York City beginning 6 October. and Caribbean itineraries from Galveston, Texas and Miami beginning 27 October.  To commemorate this exciting partnership and celebrating other entertainment headliners that will be featured on Norwegian Prima, NCL has put together a celebratory Spotify playlist.MSC Grandiosa now dedicated to the Norwegian Fjords for Summer 2022MSC Cruises' has announced that MSC Grandiosa will now be fully dedicated to the Norwegian Fjords for the entire Northern Hemisphere summer 2022 season. This sees one of MSC Cruises' most modern and environmentally advanced ships offering stand-out seven-night itineraries in one of the most stunning regions in Northern Europe. As a result, MSC Cruises will offer an unparalleled choice of itineraries to guests wanting to discover this unique part of the world this Northern Hemisphere summer, as MSC Preziosa and MSC Poesia also offer additional seven-night options next to MSC Grandiosa across the Norwegian Fjords regionMSC Grandiosa will perform spectacular seven-night itineraries from Kiel, Germany calling at the colourful capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen. The ship then heads north to Norway, calling at the breath-taking village of Hellesylt while experiencing the splendour of Sunnylvsfjord, sail through Aurlandsfjord on the way to the panoramic port town of Alesund and stunning Flam village.MSC Cruises had previously confirmed that the Line would suspend calls to St Petersburg, Russia and as such, MSC Grandiosa will now be fully dedicated to the Fjords region while MSC Poesia and MSC Preziosa will still call in the Baltics but with St Petersburg replaced with other popular destinations in the region like Stockholm, Tallinn and Visby.Cunard's London Theatre at Sea voyage to be Headlined by Olivier Award Winning Actress Sharon D. Clarke MBELuxury cruise line Cunard will stage its first London Theatre at Sea with the Olivier Awards voyage, curated by Society of London Theatre's Chief Executive, Julian Bird, this May.Sailing from New York to London on board flagship Queen Mary 2, the exclusive voyage will feature performances from some of the theatre world's finest talent, including Oliver Award for Best Actress winner, Sharon D. Clarke MBE, Olivier Award for Best Actor winner Matt Henry MBE, film, theatre and television actress and producer, Susie McKenna and Conductor and Orchestrator Larry Blank.The seven-night crossing, which departs New York on May 15, 2022, will be supported with a roster of workshops, talks and Q&As from industry insiders.Guests will be able to take part in acting masterclasses with performers and learn the tricks of the trade from luminaries such as Andreane Neofitou, the costume designer behind Les Misérables and Miss Saigon.For the first time, Cunard will be introducing an “Oliviers Gala Evening,” which will feature entertainment from headliners throughout the evening, as well as a never-seen-before show, “Olivier Awards in Concert” that has been created for this voyage by Society of London Theatre's Julian Bird. The concert will take place in the Royal Court Theatre and pay homage to the Olivier Awards' last 45 years in a dazzling one-off production with cast and orchestra.Global Adventurer, Mountaineer & Polar-Explorer, Alison Levine name Godmother of Seabourn Venture. Seabourn, the ultra-luxury expedition experience, is delighted to announce that global adventurer, mountaineer and polar-explorer Alison Levine will serve as Godmother of Seabourn Venture, the first of the line's two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition vessels. Levine will be on board and in the spotlight for the traditional naming and christening of the ship, which is set to launch in July 2022.Levine is an idyllic choice for Godmother of Seabourn Venture, which is being built to seek out adventure and natural wonders around the world. A native of Phoenix, she served as team captain of the first American Women's Everest Expedition in 2002, and in 2010 completed her bid for the Explorer's Grand Slam which includes climbing the Seven Summits – the highest peak on each continent – as well as skiing to the North and South Poles.Levine has also seen success in the business world. She earned her MBA from Duke University and worked in the pharmaceutical industry as well as on Wall Street with Goldman Sachs. After turns as deputy finance director for Arnold Schwarzenegger's successful bid to become Governor of California and as an adjunct professor in the Department of Behavioral Sciences & Leadership at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, she went on to become one of the world's most in-demand leadership consultants and keynote speakers. She is the author of the New York Times bestseller, “On the Edge: Leadership Lessons from Mount Everest and Other Extreme Environments”, which chronicles the lessons she learned on her various expeditions. In 2019 she received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, an award she shares with seven U.S. Presidents and numerous Nobel Prize winners.Levine has also shared her experiences, insights and tales of adventure with guests of Seabourn through Seabourn Conversations, the line's popular onboard enrichment program, aboard Seabourn Sojourn in December 2019. It was her first-ever cruise – a trip she never thought she would do – but she admits she is hooked and looks forward to more travels by ship in the future. Seabourn Venture and its sister expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit, will feature 132 luxurious oceanfront veranda suites and take travelers to some of the most awe-inspiring places in the world, some of which are only accessed by ship. Viking Expands European River Fleet with Naming of Eight New Ships and Marks Beginning of 2022 River SeasonViking welcomed eight new river ships to its award-winning fleet during a celebration in Paris. Of the eight new Viking Longships®, four ships – Viking Fjorgyn, Viking Kari, Viking Radgrid and Viking Skaga – are built specifically to navigate the Seine River and bring guests to the heart of Paris with an exclusive docking location at Port de Grenelle, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. The four additional ships – Viking Egdir, Viking Gersemi, Viking Gymir and Viking Hervor – will sail Viking's popular itineraries on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.The naming of the new river ships comes as Viking continues its 25th anniversary and a year of multiple milestones. In January 2022, the company launched Viking Expeditions and its first Polar Class vessel, the Viking Octantis®. By the end of the year, Viking will have also welcomed a second identical expedition ship, as well as two new identical ocean ships, new purpose-built vessels for the Nile and Mekong rivers and new Mississippi River voyages.Viking Naming CeremonyIn keeping with maritime tradition that dates back thousands of years, Viking invited eight distinguished cultural partners and important members of the company's extended family to serve as ceremonial godmothers of the new ships. The honored godmothers include:Alma Deutscher, Godmother of Viking Gymir – A musical phenomenon, Alma captivates the classical world with her talents as a violinist, pianist, composer and conductor, and at just 17 years old was hailed as the “new Mozart” at an early age. She recently appeared on an episode of Viking's award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV (Anne Diamond Welcomes Back Composer and Musician Alma Deutscher), where she discussed her upcoming concert series, which will be exclusive for Viking guests on select river voyages visiting Vienna.Helen Deutscher, Godmother of Viking Egdir – A violinist, pianist and vocalist, Helen is an accomplished musician who honed her musical and performance skills at the Music Gymnasium in Vienna and as a member of the Vienna State Opera's children's chorus; she has also performed in several productions of her sister Miss Alma Deutscher's opera, Cinderella. Helen and Alma recently appeared together on an episode of Viking.TV (Anne Diamond Interviews Classical Musicians, Alma & Helen Deutscher) where they discussed their remarkable lives and many musical milestones.Dr. Janie Deutscher, Godmother of Viking Radgrid – An author and educator, Dr. Deutscher is also an accomplished musician and earned an organ scholarship to Oxford University where she later taught medieval literature; in recent years, she has concentrated on homeschooling and supporting the musical ambitions of her two daughters, Alma and Helen, godmothers of Viking Gymir and Viking Egdir, respectfully.Brenda Hunsberger, Godmother of Viking Hervor – For more than four decades, Ms. Hunsberger, Senior Vice President of Travel Services with AAA Club Alliance, has worked in the industry as an accomplished travel agent; she believes in the power of travel to transform perspectives and change lives.Karryn Christopher, Godmother of Viking Gersemi – Ms. Christopher is Executive Vice President of Preferred Partnerships & Marketing for Signature Travel Network, a member-owned travel cooperative established in 1956, where she has led the transformation of the company's sales and marketing division.Ghislaine Wood, Godmother of Viking Fjorgyn – As the Deputy Director of the University of East Anglia's Sainsbury Centre, one of the most important public university art galleries in Great Britain, Ms. Wood carefully curates exhibitions, including the upcoming “Visions of Ancient Egypt,” which was developed in partnership with Viking; opening in September 2022, the exhibit will honor the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb. Ms. Wood discussed her work at the Sainsbury Centre in a recent episode of Viking.TV (Explore Alaskan Objects at the Sainsbury Centre with Ghislaine Wood), including the origins of their Alaska collection which examines how indigenous Alaskan communities developed technologies and tools to adapt to their environment.Muriel Wilson, Godmother of Viking Skaga – As the Director of Event Strategy & Sponsorships for Virtuoso, Ltd., Ms. Wilson has been a distinguished staff member of the global network of agencies for more than 40 years and leverages her deep knowledge of the industry to develop quality hospitality and travel experiences for Virtuoso's travel advisors and preferred partners.Kari Garmann, Godmother of Viking Kari – Former member of The Parliament of Norway and Oslo City Council, Ms. Garmann has made valuable contributions to Norway in the areas of government, business and banking throughout her career.The naming event was executed by connecting the new ships via satellite across two European cities: Paris and Amsterdam. The Viking Fjorgyn, Viking Kari, Viking Radgrid and Viking Skaga were docked in Paris at the Port de Grenelle, where they were named by their godmothers. The other four ships – Viking Egdir, Viking Gersemi, Viking Gymir and Viking Hervor – were docked in Amsterdam and named by their godmothers, who also joined the celebration in Paris. In keeping with another maritime tradition, a bottle of Gammel Opland aquavit was broken on the bow of each new shipMSC Group breaks ground in Miami for North Americas largest cruise terminal New $350 million terminal to provide seamless guest experience for up to 36,000 passengers a dayTerminal will be capable to host three latest-generation ships simultaneouslyMSC Cruises to deploy some of its most environmentally advanced vessels in MiamiThe Cruise Division of MSC Group broke ground on 10 March for its new $350 million mega cruise terminal in Miami which when it opens will be North America's largest.The four-storey building with four embarkation decks will be able to accommodate up to 36,000 passenger movements a day, and feature enough berthing space to serve three latest generation ships simultaneously.The project will allow MSC Cruises to further its presence in the North American market and attract more international travellers for holidays at sea in the Caribbean.  The Cruise Division of MSC Group and Italian ship builder Fincantieri announced a partnership in July 2021 whereby Fincantieri Infrastructure would construct the state-of-the-art facility which will feature a striking design by award-winning global architecture firm Arquitectonica.The new terminal will be able to accommodate MSC Cruises' largest and most environmentally advanced cruise ships, including its current flagship, MSC Seashore, and the line's future liquified natural gas-(LNG) powered World Class ships.  Most ships at berth at the new Miami terminal will be able to plug in to the local power grid, in line with PortMiami's plans to enable shore power connectivity.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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Episode 91In Episode 91, Chris discusses the historical changes to the Cunard Logo and Livery and we delve deep in to the latest cruise news from around the world.RMS Caronia (ca. 1956) (colorized)https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:RMS_Caronia_(ca._1956)_(colorized).jpgThis file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.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 Donates $50,000 to Ukrainian Relief EffortsCarnival Cruise Line today marked a half a century since its maiden voyage from PortMiami with a celebration aboard Carnival Conquest. Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy was joined by Carnival Corp. Chairman Micky Arison and Carnival Corp. CEO Arnold Donald; U.S. Representatives Frederica Wilson and Vern Buchanan; Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava; Doral Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez; Miami industry and community leaders; as well as Carnival leadership.At the event, Carnival announced a $50,000 donation to World Central Kitchen to support Ukrainian relief efforts and in the name of its more than 300 team members from the country. Duffy also presented a $50,000 donation to Carnival's long-standing partner Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami. Mayor Levine Cava presented Duffy with a commemorative gift marking the occasion and Mayor Bermudez read a proclamation declaring March 11, 2022 as Carnival Cruise Line Day in Doral. Carnival currently employs more than 40,000 team members from 120 nationalities. As America's Cruise Line and the flagship brand of Carnival Corporation, Carnival has made cruising accessible and fun for more than 90 million passengers since its inception. Each year, approximately six million passengers set sail on 23 ships from 14 U.S. homeports and call on popular international destinations.In addition to today's party in Miami, Carnival's year-long 50th birthday celebrations included 17 commemorative Sailabrations cruises that featured at-sea ship meetups, special entertainment and programming.AND…As part of Carnival Cruise Line's year-long 50th birthday festivities and its Sailabrations cruises in the U.S, seven ships – Carnival Breeze, Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Glory, Mardi Gras, Carnival Pride, Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Vista – met up near Cozumel yesterday for one of the biggest birthday parties at sea.During the meetup, each cruise ship hosted their own party on the Lido deck, where guests joined the Cruise Director, Playlist Productions cast and the ship's DJ for a birthday party complete with music and entertainment. Guests also participated in the biggest Ship-Tok at sea, where the ships' Cruise Directors and Fun Squads taught and led a choreographed dance inspired by Carnival's 50th birthday. Don't buy us a coffee this week instead… A HOTEL IN KYIV IS USING DONATIONS FROM AIRBNB TO DELIVER 15,000 MEALS A DAY DESPITE CONSTANT AIR RAID SIRENS AND MILITARY ATTACKS ON THE UKRAINIAN CAPITAL.£22,830 ($AUD40,628) has been donated to Campus Community A-Hotel in the city centre to keep their kitchen open and cook for military personnel, orphanages, nursing homes, and hospitals in Kyiv.The hotel is situated above a bomb shelter where an internet company set up online education for children in the shelter.“When the (sirens start), people can easily go downstairs and stay safe in the bomb shelter,” Gabovich said.“The guys from the internet company are doing a great job. They support all the connection so teachers from one shelter can teach children in another shelter.”The rooms at the hotel cost between £7-10 ($AUD12-18) per night and the cost of meals, medicine, and shipment fees to transport the food are covered.To donate to the Campus Community A-Hotel via Airbnb click HERE.Oceania World Cruise Record…Oceania Cruises, announced that the 2024 Around the World in 180 Days voyage aboard Insignia sold out within 30 minutes of opening for sale on March 2nd. In conjunction with the world cruise, the company also launched four new 72- to 82-day Grand Voyages in the Asia-Pacific region aboard Regatta, Nautica, and Riviera. The sell-out of the six-month-long world cruise and the enthusiastic response to the four Asia-Pacific voyages resulted in a new single-day booking record that surpasses the previous record set in September 2021 by almost 12%. JLo Partners with Virgin Voyages Entertainer Jennifer Lopez, has joined Virgin Voyages as an investor, with the singer to also serve as the cruise line's Chief Entertainment & Lifestyle Officer. With Jennifer Lopez on deck, the glamor, the energy, and the creativity just amped up, and they have unbelievable plans on the horizon.Virgin said it is “redefining” the nautical tradition of appointing a godmother from a ceremonial role to a modern, “change-making partnership”.Princess Cruises Celebrates the Madrina of Discovery PrincessPrincess Cruises recently celebrated and honoured the Discovery Princess Madrina – Hotel General Manager Terri Cybuliak – currently serving onboard Sky Princess, leading a team of 1,200 crew members within the hotel department. Her main role is to ensure exceptional guest experience from entertainment to food and beverage, housekeeping, and guest services.  Terri first joined Princess in 1998 as a Junior Assistant Purser on the original Crown Princess. As Hotel General Manager, Terri helped launch Majestic Princess in China and was heavily engaged in the planning of that ship. With Sky Princess, Terri became the first female Hotel General Manager at Princess to launch a newbuild from a shipyard. Discovery Princess was delivered on January 28, 2022, at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. The 3,660-guest Discovery Princess is the sixth and final Royal-Class newbuild and shares all 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 mesmerizing Broadway-style production shows that can only be seen in the state-of-the-art Princess Theatre, including the newest show, Spotlight Bar. Discovery Princess uses the latest technologies to reduce fuel consumption, treat wastewater, and support our environmental compliance efforts.Discovery Princess is making 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. 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.Oh Canada! Echoing the travel industry's excitement at the news that the Canadian authorities are once again welcoming cruise ships, Cunard is eager to call on Vancouver and the spectacular region of Alaska this summer and beyond.Cunard returned to Alaska in 2019 to much fanfare and excitement, and now looks ahead with great enthusiasm to their 2022 summer Alaska season on Queen Elizabeth. The ship will again sail through the storied waters and landscapes of the Last Frontier, featuring the blue hues of the immense Hubbard Glacier, and Glacier Bay National Park – where visitors are awed by some of the world's most spectacular tidewater glaciers.The ship will sail a coastal transit from Los Angeles to Vancouver on May 30, and begin sailing in Alaska on June 5, offering seven and 10-day voyages through July. At the conclusion of the season in late July, Queen Elizabeth will sail down the west coast, providing guests the option to join the ship in San Francisco and in Los Angeles, as the ship journeys onward through the Panama Canal to cap off her Alaska voyages this year. Queen Elizabeth sails in Alaska again in 2023 with an expanded series of itineraries.Following the recent announcement of the safe resumption of cruising in Canadian ports by the Federal Minister of Transport in Canada, Princess Cruises has finalised programs and guest experiences for a full summer season of 2022 cruises and cruisetours to Alaska, as well as its popular summer and fall Canada & New England program. Meanwhile for Holland America Line. The line's first ship to arrive in Canada is Koningsdam, which calls at Victoria April 9 en route to Vancouver for an April 10 arrival. On the eastern seaboard, Zaandam calls at Halifax, Nova Scotia, May 17 while on a nine-day Atlantic Coast cruise sailing Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Montreal.Carnival Launches Health Verification App (US)Carnival Cruise Line is making health screening simpler and quicker for guests. After a successful pilot of VeriFLY™ by Daon, a secure and free digital health app allowing vaccinated guests to easily submit pre-embarkation information, Carnival has launched the app fleetwide for all ships in all of its U.S. homeports, making Carnival the largest cruise line to utilize VeriFLY. Guests who use the VeriFLY app can expect the time it takes to complete the health assessment process during embarkation to be cut in half.“VeriFLY helps our guests easily and securely complete pre-embarkation tasks right from their smartphone. Guests can save time at the port and get on board faster by completing the process via VeriFLY,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy.Using the app has been an easy choice for guests from the start. In the pilot program's first test in January, ahead of a cruise on Mardi Gras from Port Canaveral, more than 85 percent of the 2,000 guests who opened an email invitation followed through by downloading the VeriFLY app.Available in the App Store or Google Play, once guests download VeriFLY, they can then search for Carnival Cruise Line and complete the required steps. Guests will be asked to submit required documentation, including vaccination status and COVID-19 test results. When the process is successfully completed, a VeriFLY pass will be issued in the app to present at embarkation. For more information on VeriFLY and the process, click here.Guests who choose not to complete the VeriFLY process are still able to complete their pre-cruise tasks on Carnival.com and present required COVID-19 documents during their embarkation.MSC to sail year round from New YorkMSC Cruises has announced that for the first time it will base one of its ships in New York and operate year-round sailings.  The glamorous MSC Meraviglia will homeport in the Big Apple from April 2023 for year-round cruises to the Caribbean, Bermuda, New England and Canada. Many of the cruises from New York will visit Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve – the line's stunning private island destination in The Bahamas.The deployment is set to enhance MSC Cruises' presence in the North American market by complementing the rich choice of ships and itineraries sailing from both Miami and Port Canaveral/Orlando in Florida and will give guests the opportunity to extend their holiday with a stay in New York either before or after their cruise.New York Itinerary Highlights:Caribbean itineraries of either 7 or 8 nights, featuring calls in Nassau, The Bahamas and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve—MSC Cruises' beautiful private island also in The Bahamas.Bermuda itineraries lasting 6 nights and offering three days docked at King's Wharf combined with several relaxing days at sea.Northern itineraries of either 10 or 11 nights, featuring calls at Boston, Massachusetts; Portland, Maine; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; and Saint John, New Brunswick. 11-night itineraries include an additional call in Newport, Rhode Island.About MSC MeravigliaAt 315 metres long and 65 metres tall, with an impressive 19 decks and capacity of up to 5,700 guests, MSC Meraviglia is a holiday destination in its own right—packed with innovative features to provide an unforgettable experience:10 different types of cabins to choose from, including solo cabins, popular balcony cabins, and stylish accommodations in the MSC Yacht Club – the premium ‘ship within a ship' featuring butler service, along with exclusive restaurant, lounge and pool areas.Galleria Meraviglia, a promenade lined with shops, restaurants and bars that stretches more than 90 metres and lined with an impressive LED sky screen.20 bars and 12 restaurants, including the popular Butcher's Cut steakhouse and Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki.Indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, together with a water park and ropes course.Different theatrical extravaganzas in our 985-seat theatre.The extensive MSC Aurea Spa, providing massage therapy, body treatments, facial treatments, and a dedicated thermal area.557 square-metre gym featuring state-of-the-art equipment from Technogym™.MSC Kids' Club for children from 0-17 years old, with dedicated areas for babies, toddlers, children and teenagers, plus the Lego® Experience.Azamara Names Godmother of Azamara OnwardAzamara, announces Beth Santos, Founder and CEO of global community and lifestyle brand Wanderful, as Godmother of its newest ship, Azamara Onward. Recognized by Business Insider as a changemaker transforming the hospitality industry, Santos is a seasoned traveler who helps an inclusive community of over 45,000 women travel the world – aligning with Azamara's mission to bring guests to hidden gem destinations, inviting them to dive deeper with country intensive itineraries, immersive land programs, and overnight stays.While living abroad in São Tomé and Príncipe, Santos began Wanderful in 2009 as a travel blog, aiming to capture the diverse and shared experiences of women traveling the world. More than a decade later, Wanderful now connects over 45,000 women travellers through local events in more than 50 cities worldwide, group trips, and its online social network. Both the brand and Santos herself continually advocate for equity and inclusion in the travel industry, a mission that Azamara aims to support and uplift through this relationship with Santos. In addition to founding Wanderful, Santos created the Women in Travel Summit in 2014, the premier event for women and gender diverse travel creators, entrepreneurs, and industry which is now hosted annually on two continents. Santos also started the Bessie Awards, which honor women of impact in the travel industry, and Wanderfest, the first major outdoor travel festival by and for women.Having first cruised at the age of two with her family, Santos appreciates that cruising has a unique ability to bring people together. As a Portuguese American, Santos is especially excited about Azamara's 16-Night Portuguese Pursuit Voyage, which begins in Lisbon and ends in one of Santos' favorite cities in the world, Rio De Janeiro, allowing travelers to explore many destinations that have been influenced by the Portuguese people and culture.Santos will christen Azamara Onward in Monte Carlo on the evening of May 2, the first day of the ship's maiden voyage. Ship christening is a longstanding naval tradition dating back thousands of years, and in keeping with maritime tradition, Santos will christen the ship with champagne as a part of the official naming ceremony. Guests will be a part of this historic sailing followed by an 11-night itinerary stopping in iconic Italian cities such as Florence, Rome, Amalfi, and concluding with an overnight stay in the romantic floating city of Venice.INGER KLEIN THORHAUGE NAMED FIRST CAPTAIN OF NEW CUNARD SHIP QUEEN ANNEFollowing the eagerly anticipated name reveal of Cunard's newest ship, Queen Anne on February 8th, the luxury brand now introduces her first Captain, Inger Klein Thorhauge. Thorhauge will lead the team responsible for on board operations and take charge for the new Queen's maiden season.Thorhauge, Cunard's first female Captain, celebrates 25 years of service this year with the company and will sail Queen Anne from Italy, where she is currently being built, to Southampton ahead of her inaugural sailing in early 2024.Thorhauge, who became Captain of Queen Victoria in 2010, started her career in 1997 as Second Officer on board Cunard's Vistafjord. Originally from the Faroe Islands, her career with the company has seen her travel the world many times over as captain of Queen Victoria and more recently Queen Elizabeth.Sharing captain duties will be David Hudson who started his career with Cunard in 2006.Itineraries for Queen Anne will be revealed in May 2022. Further news about Queen Anne's senior leadership team will be revealed over the coming months.PONANT's Le Commandant Charcot sets new world record in the AntarcticOn the 27th of February 2022 in the Ross Sea, Le Commandant Charcot set a new world record in reaching the navigable latitude closest to the South Pole. PONANT's latest addition to the fleet, the high polar exploration hybrid-electric vessel powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Le Commandant Charcot, is the first ship in the world to reach the extreme latitude of 78°44.3 South in the Bay of Whales in the Ross Sea. Le Commandant Charcot is the world's first hybrid electric LNG powered luxury polar exploration ship. It is a major innovation that signals PONANT's deep commitment to sustainable tourism and to minimising the environmental impact. A ship of scientific opportunity, she is also the only exploration ship in the world to host researchers on board and provide them with dedicated work areas. With Le Commandant Charcot, PONANT is helping the scientific world collect data and gain new insights into the world because “we protect better what we know”. Oceanwide Expeditions announces Antarctica 2023-24 programDutch polar tour operator Oceanwide Expeditions has opened its Antarctica 2023-24 program for bookings, including in the program some of its most ambitious itineraries to date.Both classic expeditions and all-new voyages make up the 2023-24 season, which offers numerous trips for returning explorers as well as travellers discovering Antarctica for the first time.Among the program's many highlights are wildlife cruises that seek out prime hotspots for viewing exotic species, exploratory voyages that emphasize rarely visited areas, and outdoor activities that immerse guests in some of Earth's most remote and wild locations.The remote Weddell Sea, Wilkins Ice Shelf, Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and iconic Antarctic Peninsula are all possibilities – along with our classic Basecamp cruises.A-ROSA to offer PremiumPLUS cruises from 2023A-ROSA Flussschiff GmbH unveiled its strategy for further developing its Premium all inclusive tariff from the 2023 season onwards. Based on detailed guest surveys and market research, the company has developed a new concept for its cruises to meet the changing needs of its guests.More than 200 improvements – large and small – will ensure that A-ROSA, currently a premium operator, becomes a ‘PremiumPLUS' operator from the 2023 season onwards. Taking into account the entire customer journey – before, during and after travel – the company will focus on making its cruises more customizable, as well as providing even better service, improving its culinary offering, becoming more family-friendly and developing its well-being portfolio. A-ROSA also plans to place greater importance on sustainability and on offering authentic experiences at its destinations.Authentic, personalised experiences in the cruise regionsAnother new area of focus for A-ROSA's city breaks by ship is helping guests experience the different destinations in an authentic way. They'll have the opportunity to get to know chefs, artists and local people from the various regions. A-ROSA will also introduce Destination Scouts. This innovative idea involves locals advising guests visiting their hometown on how to get the most out of their trip. “We'll be looking for people from the cities we call at who can give our guests insider tips about the best places to eat or shop and the best current exhibitions, concerts and events,” explained Eichler. “This will give our guests a really in-depth experience of the region and provide insight into local life beyond the tourist areas.”When it comes to excursions, there will also be a focus on personalised experiences. With 500 different excursions available, there will be something for everyone. Guests who book excursions in the new ‘exclusive tours' category will enjoy individual tours with a vehicle and driver plus their own tour guide. One particular highlight is the half-day excursion with dinner, which will be included in the cruise price from 2023 and guarantees guests an unforgettable evening.More entertainment and relaxationA-ROSA's onboard entertainment programme is set to provide even more value from 2023. Cruises with a duration of five nights or more will include an evening concert, while cruises lasting seven nights or more will feature two. Cruises of nine nights or longer will also have a subject-matter expert on board to give lectures about the destinations. The musical artists will either come from or be influenced by the cruise regions. Through their music – whether traditional songs or global hits – they'll convey the artistic flair of their homeland to the guests.A-ROSA is also responding to its guests' desire for more relaxation and well-being by widening the range of activities available. The SPA-ROSA will provide new treatments and massages, while yoga and fitness classes will be added to the onboard programme. As well as going on guided bike tours, guests will also be able to borrow e-bikes and explore destinations on their own. What's more, as the industry's only provider of family cruises, A-ROSA will also be extending its offering for children. “As well as running dedicated family cruises during the school holidays, we'll provide a Kids Club with organised activities on almost all our ships if there are more than ten children on board,” explained Eichler.Focusing on sustainability“When we were working on our realignment plan, it quickly became clear that sustainability would play a central role,” said Eichler. “A-ROSA has always been involved in environmental and social actions, but taking responsibility will be a special area of focus for us in the future.” With this in mind, A-ROSA opened its own sustainability department on 1 February 2022. Department head Sandra Wendland introduced herself at the press conference. “We've brought a high-level partner on board – the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research – and we'll be working together to develop an integrated, long-term sustainability strategy for A-ROSA,” explained Wendland. The plan for the next twelve months is to determine A-ROSA's current sustainability footprint and, on the basis of field analyses and stakeholder surveys, create a clear roadmap to 2030, which will set out indicators, actions to take and targets. “We'll be presenting the entire development and implementation process in a transparent way, and the roadmap will be unveiled at the start of the 2023 season,” concluded Wendland.Viking Mississippi Floats Viking® celebrated the new 386-guest Viking Mississippi® was “floated out” in Louisiana, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Set to debut in June 2022, the Viking Mississippi will sail Viking's highly-anticipated voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul.The traditional float out took place at Edison Chouest Offshore's LaShip shipyard in Houma, Louisiana and is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. In keeping with maritime tradition, the ship's ceremonial godmother, Dionne Chouest, General Counsel of Edison Chouest Offshore, assisted with the float out.Viking's arrival to the Mississippi will represent a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the river, with the new voyages expected to bring more than 7,500 guests to the region in 2022 and 17,600+ during the first full sailing season in 2023. Currently scheduled ports of call on Viking's new Mississippi River itineraries comprise seven U.S. states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (Red Wing, St. Paul).The Viking Mississippi  Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking's award-winning river and ocean ships and will feature elegant Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. Purpose-built for the Mississippi, the five-deck ship's cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities will make it the largest and most modern ship in the region.Fred. Olsen companies fund lorry to send team donations to UkraineSuffolk-based companies Fred. Olsen Ltd, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and Fred. Olsen Travel have jointly funded a lorry to send aid donated by team members to support Ukrainian refugees.Between them, the team filled 61 boxes to help those in need, containing women's, men's and children's clothing, medication for adults and children, toiletries, nappies, blankets, batteries and power packs, thermal flasks and more than 70 soft toys.The donations were collected from Fred. Olsen House, in White House Road, Ipswich, yesterday by Ruslan Postupalenko, who is providing lorries to transport the goods from his Felixstowe-based company RPER Ltd.Ruslan, aged 23 and who was born in Ukraine, is working alongside fellow Suffolk firms A2B-Online Ltd, who have donated trailers to carry the donations, and OLMAR Ltd whose drivers are donating their time to transport the goods safely.The three Fred. Olsen companies will be jointly funding the cost of the fuel for one of Ruslan's lorries to travel to Ukraine.Endurance is FoundThe Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust is pleased to confirm that the Endurance22 Expedition has located the wreck of Endurance, Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship which has not been seen since it was crushed by the ice and sank in the Weddell Sea in 1915.One hundred years after Shackleton's death, Endurance was found at a depth of 3008 metres in the Weddell Sea, within the search area defined by the expedition team before its departure from Cape Town, and approximately four miles south of the position originally recorded by Captain Worsley.The team worked from the South African polar research and logistics vessel, S.A. Agulhas II, owned by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment and under Master, Capt. Knowledge Bengu, using Saab's Sabertooth hybrid underwater search vehicles. The wreck is protected as a Historic Site and Monument under the Antarctic Treaty, ensuring that whilst the wreck is being surveyed and filmed it will not be touched or disturbed in any way.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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Scott and Tommy share about their 2021 Halloween and Christmas cruises aboard the Majestic Princess. Plus, we have a fantastic interview with the cruise director! Enjoy the new episode!

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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Join my sister, Lori VanGordon, as she decides to take a cruise to escape the cold dark winter, to sunny warm Mexico, and not even a pandemic is going to stop her. She'll share tips and tricks on how to prepare for the extra requirements and precautions when preplanning, to the secrets of relaxing on board for hours at a time. It feels like she has the ship to herself, and I wish I was there. Then she takes us to Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan for a fun filled vacation. But first, hear about why she wants to visit Sam's Club and they won't let her in. Listen to why the locals follow the blonde gringo around, and why everyone calls out her name as she tours the city. Her fun times, crazy experiences and positive outlook make for great story telling as we laugh about her adventures. Send questions and comments to : Email - imcruisingtheworld@gmail.com Follow on Instagram @cruisingtheworldpodcast Facebook - Cruising The World with Dani and Friends Twitter - @Travlingrrl Tracklist- "Shingaling" by Tom Swoon "Dune" by Strehlow --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/danielle-dubay-jurado/support

Join my sister, Lori VanGordon, as she decides to take a cruise to escape the cold dark winter, to sunny warm Mexico, and not even a pandemic is going to stop her. She'll share tips and tricks on how to prepare for the extra requirements and precautions when preplanning, to the secrets of relaxing on board for hours at a time. It feels like she has the ship to herself, and I wish I was there. Then she takes us to Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan for a fun filled vacation. But first, hear about why she wants to visit Sam's Club and they won't let her in. Listen to why the locals follow the blonde gringo around, and why everyone calls out her name as she tours the city. Her fun times, crazy experiences and positive outlook make for great story telling as we laugh about her adventures. Send questions and comments to : Email - imcruisingtheworld@gmail.com Follow on Instagram @cruisingtheworldpodcast Facebook - Cruising The World with Dani and Friends Twitter - @Travlingrrl Tracklist- "Shingaling" by Tom Swoon "Dune" by Strehlow --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/danielle-dubay-jurado/support

Episode Overview Episode 84 is the last of 2021. In this show, Chris answers a number of listener questions. Baz and Chris review the year and discuss the latest cruise newsSupport 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 NewsEnchanted Princess Officially Named in Original Production “Our World, Enchanted”Enchanted Princess, the 5th royal-class ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, was officially named today in a ceremony titled “Our World, Enchanted.”  Hosted by Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador Jill Whelan and Enchanted Princess Cruise Director Dan Falconer, the original production introduced viewers to the ship's innovative features of the MedallionClass ship and shared some of Princess' history as a cruise industry leader.The ceremony honoured three members of The Explorers Club – Captain Lynn Danaher, Dr. Vicki Ferrini and Jenifer Austin – who served as the godmothers of Enchanted Princess. The notable godmothers have been recognised for their achievements in expeditions, oceanography and mapping the world's oceans.The 145,000-tonne, 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 distinguished by Princess. The ship's inaugural cruise season began November 10, with various 10-day Southern Caribbean itineraries, sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale.  The naming ceremony is available to watchhereCarnival Radiance Christened By Godmother Dr. Lucille O'NealIn a celebration of all things fun and family, Carnival Cruise Line christened its newest ship Carnival Radiance last night in a naming ceremony in Long Beach, Calif., with the ship's Godmother Dr. Lucille O'Neal and her son, Carnival Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O'Neal as featured guests of the event. Carnival Radiance underwent a $200 million bow-to-stern makeover and is Carnival's third ship sailing year-round from Long Beach, joining Carnival Panorama and Carnival Miracle.The heartfelt naming ceremony began with a “We Are Family” video of Carnival Radiance crew members preparing the ship for guests sailing four- and five-day Mexico voyagesIn addition to Big Chicken, new offerings added to Carnival Radiance include Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse created by Food Network star and longtime partner Guy Fieri; Heroes Tribute Bar saluting those that serve in the Armed Forces; Cucina del Capitano family-style Italian restaurant; Bonsai Sushi; and the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Pub. All of the ship's public spaces have been transformed as well – including the water park, youth facilities, retail shops, Cloud 9 Spa and a new Liquid Lounge home to Carnival's award-winning Playlist Productions shows. The exterior of the ship has also been adorned with the line's new red, white and blue hull livery fashioned after its flagship, Mardi Gras.Royal Caribbean Reveals Four World-Class Ships Head to Alaska in 2023Following a successful return to service in Alaska earlier this year, Royal Caribbean announces that they'll return in 2023 for their second consecutive year with four ships in the region.Three bold, returning favourites, Ovation, Quantum and Radiance of the Seas, will be joined by Enchantment of the Seas to offer families and all travellers a variety of ways to experience the Last Frontier and its majestic glaciers, breathtaking wildlife and charming towns.From Mendenhall Glacier to the Inside Passage, to onboard memory-making thanks to unique experiences such as simulated skydiving on RipCord by iFly and taking in awe-inspiring views through acres of glass, vacationers have in-store cool thrills from one day to the next.Ovation and Quantum of the Seas – Cruising from: SeattleOn Ovation's cruises, departing on Fridays, travellers can discover the best of Alaska from one charming town to the next. Extended stays also offer adventure seekers more time to explore in Skagway, Alaska, where one can retrace the steps of the historic Klondike Gold Rush and visit a restored 19th-century railroad depot; and state capital Juneau, Alaska, which offers dogsledding across Mendenhall Glacier and explorations of centuries-old mining trails. Plus, vacationers can head to the road less travelled at Ward Cove near Ketchikan where they can take in the unspoiled scenery along the Tongass Narrows and the wildlife that calls it home, like sea lions, bald eagles, and porpoises.Departing on Mondays, Quantum's stunning itineraries will bring travellers up close to the massive Dawes Glacier after sailing through the impressive Endicott Arm, alongside visits to four coastal communities, including Ketchikan, Alaska, and Victoria, British Columbia. When heading ashore, travellers can look forward to immersing themselves in the local culture while at destinations like Sitka and Icy Strait Point, Alaska, home to the rich history of the Tlingit and activities ranging from kayak island-hopping to whale watching and fishing.Radiance and Enchantment of the Seas – Cruising from: Seward and VancouverRadiance will, once again, sail alternating southbound and northbound itineraries that depart from Seward and Vancouver. Travellers will have the opportunity to discover the region's magnificent landscapes firsthand when visiting Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Skagway, and as they sail the Inside Passage and by Hubbard Glacier.Enchantment makes its way to the Pacific coast for its debut Alaska season, sailing roundtrip from Vancouver. Vacationers have in store more glaciers than one, Hubbard Glacier and Tracy Arm fjord, and inspiring destinations like Haines, Ketchikan – the gateway to the wild landscapes and seascapes – Skagway and Juneau.Renascent Swan Hellenic's SH Minerva sets sail for Antarctica The new ship is on her way to Ushuaia ready for a New Year maiden Antarctic cruise departing 29th December.Wednesday the 8th of December 2021, Swan Hellenic announced that its new ship SH Minerva had left Helsinki for Argentina and her first cultural expedition cruise of the Antarctic, a 10-day New Year celebration of discovery departing Ushuaia on the 29th of December 2021.SH Minerva was delivered on the 3rd of December following her christening on the 23rd of November and 3 days of highly successful sea trials in which the next-generation polar expedition vessel performed beyond expectations in all respects, from manoeuvrability and stability to top speed and emissions. The elegant new purpose-designed ship sailed through the Kiel Canal on the 6th of December. She is the first in a series of three stunning high ice class cultural expedition cruise vessels made for premium cruise experiences worldwide, with a strong bias for extreme latitude areas. SH Minerva features a 5-megawatt diesel-electric propulsion system with selective catalytic reduction and a PC5 ice-strengthened hull with extra-large stabilisers for exceptional passenger comfort. At 113 m, the 10,500-ton vessel has been specially designed to explore the most inspiring and inaccessible places on the planet.The vessels have been designed to meet the latest environmental regulations. SH Minerva is completely self-sufficient for up to 40 days or 8,000 nautical miles. Preparations have been made to implement battery technology which would also make it possible to operate silently. The vessels are equipped with exhaust gas cleaning, advanced wastewater treatment systems and the waste storage facilities required for operating in sensitive polar areas.Providing spacious 5-star accommodation for 152 guests in 76 spacious cabins and suites, the vast majority with large balconies, SH Minerva is operated by an onboard team of 120 to provide the highest levels of personal service.Plancius first back to the FalklandsWhen Oceanwide Expeditions vessel Plancius ports in Stanley this Friday, she will be the first cruise ship to visit the Falklands since the islands reopened its ports to tourism.Plancius will dock in Stanley on December 10th with its full occupancy of 108 passengers, after which guests will be free to explore the town and nearby areas before continuing on their voyage.This is a happy event long anticipated by all parties, though strict COVID-19 measures will remain intact both in the Falklands and on Plancius. All Oceanwide staff and passengers were vaccinated and required to take several tests both before and during their cruise, which will be 17 days into its 19-night total by the time Plancius reaches Stanley.Plancius also underwent extensive upgrades prior to the voyage: Pathogen-killing UV filtration for HVAC systems, fever-detecting thermal cameras for common areas, and dedicated quarantine cabins with independent air vents are just some of the many safety measures Oceanwide has taken.Stanley businesses have likewise developed additional protocols. These include but are not limited to enhanced cleaning routines, contactless payment, and self-declaration forms, efforts that have earned the islands the approval of the World Travel & Tourism Council.Margaritaville Sets Sail with Margaritaville at SeaMargaritaville announces Margaritaville at Sea, an offshore resort experience. The first cruise ship, Margaritaville Paradise, will offer the fun, escapism, and state of mind synonymous with the global lifestyle brand.Departing on her first passenger sailing on April 30 from the Port of Palm Beach Florida to Grand Bahama Island, Margaritaville Paradise will include 10 passenger decks and 658 cabins in various stateroom categories. Following a multi-million investment and refurbishment, the ship's cabins and common spaces will feature Margaritaville's signature casual-luxe design with subtle nautical details and colours influenced by the surrounding sea, sand, and sky.Margaritaville Paradise, formerly Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line's flagship vessel, Grand Classica, will feature gourmet food and beverage options, including JWB Prime Steak & Seafood, Frank and Lola's Pizzeria, Port of Indecision Buffet, LandShark Sports Bar, and Margaritaville Coffee & Pastry Shop as well as the Euphoria Lounge, Sunset Bar, and 5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar. Additionally, the ship will offer onboard leisure activities and entertainment, including the Par-A-Dice Casino, a Stars on the Water Theatre, St. Somewhere Spa, Fins Up! Fitness Centre, pools, a retail shop, and more. The ship was built at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard and entered service as a pioneer ship. She has opened many new markets and frontiers during her lifetime, so it is fitting that Margaritaville Paradise will again be a pioneer for Margaritaville at Sea.Crystal Cruises Launches First-Ever Zero Single Supplement; Promotion Offered on 15 Crystal Symphony Caribbean and Mediterranean Sailings in 2022Crystal is offering additional holiday cheer to solo travellers with its new Zero Single Supplement promotion, which is available for the first time on its ocean vessels applicable with 15 Crystal Symphony voyages to the Caribbean and Mediterranean in 2022. The Zero Single Supplement allows solo guests to enjoy all of Crystal Symphony's luxury six-star amenities at double occupancy rates without the supplemental fee typically charged to solo travellers.The Zero Single Supplement promotion is offered on the following Crystal Symphony sailings departing from six convenient homeports in North America and Europe:Caribbean: 7-night voyages from Miami and San Juan, (January through March 2022) – These tropical adventures travel deep into the into the Caribbean where pristine beaches rub shoulders with verdant hills while vibrant coral reefs invite exploration of an underwater world of spectacular beauty. Whether it's enjoying a champagne sailaway, exploring historic landmarks or biking through the lush countryside, these adventures are the perfect winter-time getaway.Mediterranean: 7-, 8- and 10-night voyages from Lisbon, Venice, London and Monte Carlo (April, June and August 2022) – Departing from some of Europe's iconic world-class cities that are destinations unto themselves, these immersive voyages take guests on a journey of discovery as they marvel at centuries-old architecture, including ancient ruins, savor locally produced wines and authentic cuisine, view famous artwork, and hike through rugged terrain dotted with cliffs and pine forests. Specific dates included in the promotion are available at crystalcruises.com. Guests must book by January 5, 2022 to take advantage of these special solo fares, with special reduced deposits of $100 on select sailings.Altitude on Arvia – sky high activities on Britain's newest cruise shipA high ropes experience, tropical themed mini-golf and water splash zone will all form part of a new top deck Altitude experience on Arvia, P&O Cruises newest ship to be launched in December 2022.Britain's most environmentally-friendly ship, powered by LNG, has been designed as the “sunshine ship” and will include a number of “adventure firsts” set high up on the top deck.Altitude Minigolf will include water hazards, tiki huts, “hippos” and night-time illuminations and the nine-hole course will be open throughout the day and evening.Altitude Splash Valley will be a cooling aquazone for all the family with water jets, shaded areas and ocean views.Altitude Skywalk is set 54 metres above the ocean and is the company's first ever high ropes experience with varying courses to suit all abilities.Sports Arena – an outdoor sports court for football, basketball, short tennis or cricket.P&O Cruises' second LNG-powered Excel class ship and sister ship to Iona is named Arvia, meaning from the seashore, and will join the fleet in December 2022. Arvia is the latest evolution in the P&O Cruises experience, embodying the newest trends in travel, dining and entertainment, and will be the epitome of a sunshine resort sailing year-round to the warmest climates.The 185,000 tons ship, 345m in length, with 16 guest decks will feature Altitude Skywalk a unique high ropes experience, a swim-up bar and stunning infinity pool, a new restaurant Green & Co featuring Mizuhana serving a plant and fish-led menu, Ocean Studios cinema, 1,300sqm of shopping and the Oasis Spa and Health Club.MSC entire fleet back at sea in 2022 MSC Cruises has confirmed that the Company's entire fleet of 19 ships will be sailing during the northern hemisphere summer 2022 offering an outstanding choice of cruises.With almost 500 departures to choose from, different length cruises, an incredible choice of convenient embarkation ports and a modern fleet of ships offering an unparalleled experience on board, there really is something for everyone. Enjoy round-the-clock onboard activities; award-winning entertainment; immersive kids and family programmes; refined, international dining; luxurious spas all whilst staying in stylish and comfortable accommodation. There's an itinerary and ship to suit every type of holidaymaker, from short cruises in the Mediterranean, longer scenic cruises in Northern Europe through to beach cruises in the Caribbean – guests can book their dream holiday now.Northern Europe highlights for summer 2022 include:MSC Virtuosa offers itineraries between from Southampton (UK) 7 to 14 nights to the Norwegian Fjords, St Petersburg (Russia) via Sweden and Denmark and longer cruises to the Canary Islands (Spain),the Mediterranean, and Norway's North Cape plus some mini-cruises of 3-4 nights.MSC Grandiosa, embarking in Kiel (Germany) will offer seven-night itineraries with highlights including a combination of itineraries taking in destinations including Copenhagen (Denmark), Helsinki (Finland), St Petersburg (Russia), Tallinn (Estonia) and Flaam (Norway).MSC Preziosa, embarking in Kiel (Germany) will offer itineraries between seven and 11 nights, with highlights including two alternative itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords or to St Petersburg (Russia) via Tallinn (Estonia), Helsinki (Finland) and Stockholm (Sweden).MSC Poesia, embarking in Warnemunde/Berlin (Germany) will offer itineraries between seven and 14 nights  including 11-night sailings visiting nine countries (an overnight in Russia, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia, Sweden, Denmark), and longer cruises to St Petersburg (Russia) via Tallinn (Estonia), Stockholm (Sweden) and Copenhagen (Denmark) and an epic 21 night cruise that includes calls to a number of destinations in Iceland and Greenland.MSC Magnifica, embarking in Hamburg (Germany) will offer itineraries between ten and 14 nights to Norway or Iceland. The Norway cruise includes call to Alesund, Honningsvag/North Cape, Tromso, Trondheim, , Bergen and Kristiansand Iceland cruises includes calls to Reykjavik (overnight), Isafjordur and Akureyri) and Orkney Islands and Invergordon (Scotland, United Kingdom). Whilst Spitsburgen cruises include, Kristiansand, Andalsnes, Narvik ,Longyearbyen, Honningsvag and Nordfjordeid.Western Mediterranean highlights for summer 2022 include:MSC Meravigliawill homeport in Barcelona, calling the perfect itinerary for any sun-seeker: Cannes (France), Genoa, La Spezia and Civitavecchia (Italy), plus Palma de Mallorca (Spain).MSC Opera will homeport from Genoa, and visit Palermo, other destinations include calls at Marseille (France), Barcelona (Spain), and the newly reinstated embarkation port of La Goulette (Tunisia) and Naples (Italy).MSC Splendida will offer cruises fromGenoa (Italy) to Marseille (France), one of Sicily's most sought-after destination Siracusa, Taranto and its awe-aspiring beaches, plus returning to Civitavecchia (Italy)MSC Seaview will offer yet the best part of Western Mediterranean, from Genoa (Italy), she will visit the historical ports of Naples and Messina (Italy), Valletta (Malta), Barcelona (Spain) and Marseille (France).MSC Seaside: departing from Genoa, she will offer itineraries to Civitavecchia and, Palermo (Italy) and Ibiza and Valencia (Spain) and Marseille (France).MSC Orchestra: the ship will perform cruises of 4-5 nights in Spring and from June will commence the new 10-night cruises callingGenoa (Italy) to Marseille/Provence (France), Malaga, Cadiz/Seville, Lisbon (Portugal) Alicante/Costa Blanca and Mahon/Menorca (Spain), and Olbia (Italy).In Autumn, MSC Magnifcia will offer cruises 11-night cruises to Canary islands, Morroco and Madeira, whilst MSC Poesia offer 3-, 4- and 5-night cruises rounding our the season in the West Mediterranean.     Eastern Mediterranean highlights for summer 2022 include:With Trieste (Italy) as homeport, MSC Fantasia will offer calls to Ancona (Italy), Kotor (Montenegro), Bari (Italy), Corfu (Greece) and the picturesque city of Dubrovnik (Croatia). From September the ship will perform 11-night cruises that include Pireaus/Athens (Greece), Izmir/Ephesus and an overnight in Istanbul (Turkey)MSC Musica will depart from Monfalcone (Italy),Katakolon/Olympia, Heraklion, Santorini (Greece) Bari (ItalyMSC Sinfoniaand MSC Armonia will both homeport from the heart of the Mediterranean, the Italian port of Venice from Marghera. Other exciting ports on MSC Sinfonia's itinerary include Kotor (Montenegro), the infamous Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini (Greece) and Bari (Italy).MSC Armonia is putting a focus on gorgeous views with calls to Brindisi (Italy), Greek island of Mykonos and Greek mainland destination of Piraeus for Athens as well as Split and Zadar (Croatia).A variety of spectacular destinations await guests aboardMSC Lirica departing from Piraeus/Athens (Greece), calling at Kusadasi (Turkey), Haifa (Israel), the islands of Limassol (Cyprus), plus Rhodes and Santorini (Greece) plus 11-nights add in itinerary.Caribbean highlights for summer 2022 include:MSC Seashore, embarking in Miami (USA) will offer alternating seven-night itineraries to the west and east Caribbean to destinations including Nassua (The Bahamas), Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), Ocho Rios (Jamaica), George Town (Cayman Islands), Cozumel (Mexico) with each cruise calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises' own private island in The Bahamas.MSC Divina, embarking in Port Canaveral/Orlando (USA), will offer cruises between three and seven nights to the Caribbean with destinations including Costa Maya and Cozumel (Mexico), Nassau (The Bahamas) with each cruise calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine ReserveFar East highlights for summer 2022 include:MSC Bellissimawill sail a range of departures from China and JapanMSC celebrates two newbuild milestones of construction The Cruise Division of MSC Group and Chantiers de l'Atlantique has celebrated two significant newbuild milestones for the construction of the line's next generation of environmentally advanced vessels. MSC World Europa and MSC Euribia will become the first LNG-powered vessels to join the MSC Cruises fleet next year representing an investment of €3 billion in Liquified Natutal Gas (LNG) ships with the construction on World Europa II due to commence in early 2023.These ships play an important role in the Company's commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. LNG is by far the cleanest marine fuel currently available at scale and it virtually eliminates local air pollutant emissions like sulphur oxides (99%), nitrogen oxides (85%) and particles (98%). In terms of emissions with a global impact, LNG plays a key role in climate change mitigation and the engines of these two ships have the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to standard fuels. In addition, with the subsequent availability of Bio and Synthetic forms of LNG, this energy source will provide a pathway toward eventual decarbonized operations.It was also revealed that MSC Cruises and the Chantiers de l'Atlantique confirmed the installation of a fuel cell pilot plant on board MSC World Europa known as Blue Horizon. The technology will use LNG to convert fuel into electricity at one of the highest efficiencies of any power solution available today, producing electricity and heat on board. The fuel cell technology selected by Chantiers de l'Atlantique (CdA) and MSC Cruises is the SOFC (Solid Oxide Fuel Cell) developed by Bloom Energy. The SOFC will reduce emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) by about a further 30 percent compared with a conventional LNG engine without producing emissions of nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides or fine particles.  It also offers the advantage of being compatible with LNG, as well as several low carbon fuels such as types of methanol, ammonia and hydrogen. This project will form the building block for future larger installations and the beginning of an even closer collaboration between MSC Cruises and Chantier de L'Atlantique on R&D of fuel cell technology.The traditional coin ceremony tradition took place as the keel was laid for MSC Cruises' second LNG-powered ship, MSC Euribia, which will be one of the most environmentally high performing contemporary vessels built in France. Anne Claire Juventin Responsible for Quality Control from the Chantiers de l'Atlantique, and Valentina Mancini, Brand Manager from MSC Cruises performed the traditional maritime ritual as godmothers representing the ship owner and the shipbuilder when they placed two coins under the keel as the historical sign of blessing and good fortune for the project, and the ship's operational life at sea.The float out of MSC World Europa, which will be the first LNG-powered vessel to join the MSC Cruises fleet took place at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire where she will now be moved to a wet dock for work to continue on the ship until her delivery in November 2022.NCL Homeports in Panama City Norwegian Cruise Line, will become the first cruise line to homeport in Panama City, Panama, offering roundtrip Panama Canal voyages beginning 20 March 2022 with Norwegian Jewel.NCLK (Parent company of NCL) signed a multi-year agreement with the Panama Tourism Authority which allows the Company to seasonally homeport at the Colon Cruise Terminal as well as at Fuerte Amador Cruise Terminal located on the Pacific Ocean side of the country and adjacent to Panama City.In 2022 and 2023 the Company will offer 12 homeport voyages starting with Norwegian Jewel on 20 March 2022 where she will sail a nine-day itinerary traversing the Panama Canal and visiting incredible destinations including Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; Kralendijk, Bonaire and Cartagena, Colombia before arriving to the Caribbean side of Panama in the city of Colon.Starting 14 January 2023, Norwegian Gem will also feature select Panama Canal voyages including an 11-day journey visiting seven ports of call, including Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic and Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands before ending in New York City. On 6 December 2023, Norwegian Joy will offer a 10-day voyage sailing from Panama City (Fuerte Amador), Panama and visiting notable destinations including Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; George Town, Grand Cayman; Roatán, Bay Islands; Harvest Caye, NCL's private resort destination in Belize; Cozumel, Mexico and Great Stirrup Cay, the company's private island in the Bahamas before ending her journey in MiamiSeabourn announces Northeast & Northwest Passages in 2023 Seabourn, the ultra-luxury ocean and expedition cruise line, has announced an exciting line-up of adventurous voyages for the summer of 2023 on its two new purpose-built expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit. The program includes the line's first-ever voyages to the Northeast and Northwest Passages in the Arctic, where guests will discover two of the world's most remote and fascinating regions filled with an abundance of history, wildlife, and unique landscapes.Seabourn Venture will depart July 29, 2023, for a 26-day journey across the Northeast Passage from Tromsø, Norway to Nome, Alaska. Its sister ship, Seabourn Pursuit, which is scheduled to launch in March 2023, will offer a 21-day adventure to the infamous Northwest Passage departing August 27, 2023, from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland to Nome. The expedition ships will be designed and built for diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards, with advanced technology to maneuver in these regions. These voyages, as well as the entire summer 2023 season, are open for sale on December 15Virgin Voyages: A Gin-uine romanceRichard Branson and Ryan Reynolds are back at it, but this time they're taking their partnership from the air to the high seas. We've joined forces with Aviation Gin so Sailors can sip, sun, and sea thanks to the most charming duo around. And when they pre-purchase a Bar Tab, they'll be able to choose from a selection of deliciously curated Aviation Gin-based cocktails on board — from The Double Agent at SIP to Razzle Dazzle's Electric FizzLe Ponant's transformationLe Ponant, PONANT's iconic three-masted sailboat, is undergoing a transformation to offer guests an exclusive travel experience. Entirely refurbished with a sophisticated new design by Jean-Philippe Nuel studioBookings for summer 2022 departures now openFrom June 2022, this legendary sailing ship will set sail again, offering tailor-made itineraries off the beaten track in Greece and Croatia. Sales are now open for 20 departures and 3 new itineraries.On the programme, exclusive ports of call, sublime and wild landscapes, and a series of immersive activities including glass-bottomed kayaking, snorkelling, stand up paddleboarding, cycling and hiking, all in tune with nature.“Croatia, under the sails of Le Ponant”Pomalo – a word that means ‘living outside of time' in Croatian – sets the tone for this sailing which will reveal the riches and wonders of the Dalmatian coast, Croatia and Montenegro. Le Ponant will sail from Dubrovnik to the magnificent Bay of Kotor, before dropping anchor near Mljet, an island renowned for its national park, Korcula, Komiza and the island of Vis, Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, the delightful Pučišća, and finally the Elaphite archipelago.Dubrovnik, Croatia – Dubrovnik, Croatia – 8 days, 7 nights – 12 sailings from June to August 2022“Island hopping from Dubrovnik to Athens”On this unique cruise, Le Ponant will sail to the Peloponnese, to the island of Paxos, the port of Fiskardo on the island of Kefalonia, very close to Ithaca, the fortified peninsula of Monemvasia, the island of Kythnos and its scrubland landscapes, and finally Lavrio, a peaceful marina near Athens. Magnificent landscapes, full of emotion and history, between the Ionian and Aegean Seas.Dubrovnik, Croatia – Lavrio, Greece – 7 days, 6 nights – From 28 August to 3 September 2022“The Cyclades, in the wake of Le Ponant”This sailing is an invitation to rediscover the wonders of the Greek archipelago, its islands of white rock, their picturesque white houses and the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. From the port of Lavrio, a short distance from Athens, Le Ponant will set sail for the Cyclades and the Saronic Islands with exclusive ports of call in Tinos, Polyaigos, Folegandros, Monemvasia, Kythnos, and finally Spetses.Lavrio, Greece – Lavrio, Greece – 8 days, 7 nights – 7 sailings from September to October 2022And 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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Vacations are important - for our well-being, sanity, restfulness, and more. But Shane Toven just can't stop thinking and talking about broadcast engineering and the technologies that attend it! From the enormous cruise ship, “Majestic Princess,” Shane joins us via SES satellite link using their O3b Networks technology. So, what do you talk about with a man on vacation? Food? Ports of call? Tracking tags? Tower sites? Staying connected to work? Satellite data transport technology? Yes!

Vacations are important - for our well-being, sanity, restfulness, and more. But Shane Toven just can’t stop thinking and talking about broadcast engineering and the technologies that attend it! From the enormous cruise ship, “Majestic Princess,” Shane joins us via SES satellite link using their O3b Networks technology. So, what do you talk about with a man on vacation? Food? Ports of call? Tracking tags? Tower sites? Staying connected to work? Satellite data transport technology? Yes! Show Notes:O3b Networks (Wikipedia) - Global coverage Internet access from medium earth orbit satellitesO3b mPOWER web site from SESO3b mPOWER site explaining rationale for medium earth orbit coverage“SES” is an acronym for Société Européenne des SatellitesLive map of the Majestic PrincessAnother live map of maritime traffic along the West Coast of MexicoArticle about wearable RFID tags for cruise passengers and moreGuest:Shane Toven - Senior Broadcast Engineer at Educational Media FoundationHost:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, & South Seas BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on FacebookTWiRT is brought to you by:Nautel and the continuing informative live webinars. Sign up for free!Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Angry Audio - with StudioHub cables and adapters. Audio problems disappear when you get Angry at AngryAudio.com. And MaxxKonnectWireless - Prioritized High Speed Internet Service designed for Transmitter Sites and Remote Broadcasts. Look for in-depth radio engineering articles in Radio-Guide magazine.Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Vacations are important - for our well-being, sanity, restfulness, and more. But Shane Toven just can't stop thinking and talking about broadcast engineering and the technologies that attend it! From the enormous cruise ship, “Majestic Princess,” Shane joins us via SES satellite link using their O3b Networks technology. So, what do you talk about with a man on vacation? Food? Ports of call? Tracking tags? Tower sites? Staying connected to work? Satellite data transport technology? Yes!

Introducing Ep79Episode 79 is a round of up the latest cruise news… and what a week it has been in the cruise industry!Support the showListen, Like, Subscribe & Review on your favourite podcast directory.Share the podcast with someone you think will enjoy the showVote for the Podcast in the “Listeners Choice” category of the Australian Podcast Awards: https://australianpodcastawards.com/voteBuy 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 Question / Maritime History Louise asks “Why was cruising so popular in the US but took so much longer to grow in popularity around the world?Cruise NewsPrincess cancels 2022 World CruisePrincess Cruises this morning advised of the cancellation of three Coral Princess sailings for next year, including the 107-night Round World Cruise scheduled to depart from ports in Australia and New Zealand in May. The company is also cancelling its 28-night Round Australia voyage in Mar, and the 35-night Hawai'i, Tahiti and South Pacific cruise ex Sydney in Apr.Princess Cruises Announces “The Love Boat” Themed Cruise“Love … exciting and new…come aboard … we're expecting you.” A special themed “Love Boat” cruise is setting a course for adventure onboard Majestic Princess with the original ensemble cast, who will celebrate their friend and everyone's favourite cruise ship Captain Stubing with a tribute to Actor Gavin MacLeod. This seven-day cruise sails roundtrip from the Port of Los Angeles (San Pedro) to the Mexican Riviera, February 26-March 5, 2022.Hosted by Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador Jill Whelan (Vicki Stubing), who will be joined by fellow “Love Boat” cast members Cynthia Lauren Tewes (Julie McCoy), Bernie Kopell (Doc), Fred Grandy (Gopher) and Ted Lange (Isaac). Together, they will share their favourite memories from the show, participate in various guest activities and celebrate the late Gavin MacLeod, who served as brand ambassador for Princess Cruises for more than 35 years until his passing in May 2021, at the age of 90.The voyage will be underway on MacLeod's birthday – February 28 – and sails on the cruise line's signature Mexican Riviera itinerary that was prominently featured during the TV show's 10-year-run from 1977-1986, where Princess cruise ships served as the ocean-going co-star of the series. Guests will enjoy port visits to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. “Love Boat” themed cruise activities include:Festive sail away party including the popular 1970s-inspired Love Boat Disco Deck Party returns exclusively for a “command performance” during this themed cruise.Renewal of vows ceremony, hosted by Whelan and the cast on the top-deckQ&A with the cast, sharing favourite memories of the show and MacLeodBirthday celebration honouring MacLeod“Love Boat” episodes airing on Movies Under the Stars and in stateroomsLove Boat trivia with the Cruise DirectorCast photo opportunities“Love Boat” themed menus and specialty cocktailsThemed décor, photo backdrops and merchandisePrincess has been connected to “The Love Boat” beyond the setting of the show, reuniting the original cast members for two ship christenings – Dawn Princess (1997) and Regal Princess (2014), appearing on the cruise line's Rose Parade float and sailing on a throwback cruise in 2015 all celebrating the lines 50th anniversary. In May 2018, the six original cast members of “The Love Boat” and Princess Cruises received an honorary star plaque on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of their contributions to the history of television and support of the preservation of the Walk of Fame.Holland America Line's Rotterdam Kicks Off its Inaugural Season of Caribbean Cruising with Nov. 5 Departure from Fort LauderdaleHolland America Line's new Rotterdam departed, 5 Nov from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on its inaugural Caribbean cruise — a roundtrip five-day sailing that visits Bimini, Bahamas, and spends two days at Half Moon Cay, the cruise line's award-winning private Bahamian island. The ship arrived at Port Everglades 3 Nov. following its maiden transatlantic voyage that set sail from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 20 Oct.Rotterdam marks the second ship to return to Florida cruising and the Caribbean for Holland America Line since the industrywide pause began 20 months ago. During November, the ship will be joined at Port Everglades by Pinnacle Class sister-ship Nieuw Statendam and Eurodam, which also kick off their Caribbean seasons. Nieuw Amsterdam began Caribbean cruising from Fort Lauderdale 23 Oct.AIDA brings the festive magic on boardAIDAprima offers ice-skating fun and AIDAnova transforms into a winter wonderlandNew Year's Eve fireworks over the Atlantic or enjoying Christmas Eve in a cosy bar far away from stress – this and many more entertainment, culinary and wellness specials await guests on board the AIDA fleet for the upcoming holidays. In addition, guests can choose from a diverse selection of attractive destinations: Ten ships set course for the Orient, the Caribbean, the Canaries, the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.Christmas highlightsDuring Advent and Christmas, AIDAprima's Sports Deck is transformed into a festively decorated Christmas market with hearty mulled wine, candied apples and other culinary delights. The main attraction is the 200m² floating ice rink, which offers guests the opportunity to strap on their skates on the high seas. AIDAnova will come with a Winter Wonderland for its new launch from 14 December 2021: numerous oversized Christmas light installations are waiting to be marvelled at by guests young and old.On the two premiere voyages of AIDAnova from Hamburg from 14 to 19 and 19 to 22 December 2021, AIDA gourmet godmother Andrea Schirmaier-Huber will be on board. Guests will have the opportunity to create tasty biscuits and Christmas chocolates together with the well-known TV chef. The AIDA Show Ensemble will return on board AIDAnova and AIDAprima in time for the festive season. The singers and dancers will provide magical Christmas moments in the Theatrium. The excursion programme in the destinations served will also be festive – with Christmas-themed excursions through to visits to traditional Christmas markets wherever possible. From 16 December 2021, for example, AIDAnova guests will be able to explore the Christmas market in Kristiansand (Norway) individually or with the AIDA “Come ashore” tours, admiring the unique 3D light show at the cathedral.Culinary festive feastThis year, the traditional Christmas buffet will be joined by a special culinary feature in all buffet restaurants: entertaining live cooking. The 3-course menu, which is prepared right in front of the guests, starts with a seafood platter, followed by a braised ox cheek for the main course, and the crowning glory is a gingerbread slice designed by Andrea Schirmaier-Huber. In the speciality restaurant Brauhaus, a 3-course menu based around the delicious Christmas goose will be served for the first time on both Christmas Eve and 25 December. Oversized gingerbread houses created by the crew themselves already put guests in the right Christmas mood at the entrance to the restaurants. Sweet news at the end: Christmas pastries are already being distributed everywhere on all Sundays in Advent and at Christmas. The tempting treats are rounded off by three specially made Christmas ice creams.RCI 13th Seasainability Report Royal Caribbean Group announces its 13th Annual “Seasainability” report, providing a comprehensive update on the company's sustainability efforts. In particular, the 2020 report documents that the company has met or exceeded nearly all of its 2020 sustainability targets. Locally, Royal Caribbean Group has worked closely with WWF-Australia to help protect the critically endangered hawksbill turtle in the Asia-Pacific, through ‘Surrender Your Shell'. This program uses cutting-edge technology developed with Royal Caribbean Group's support to extract DNA from products to track the illegal trade of tortoiseshell.Other highlights from the report include:$8 million in support to WWF – developed the first-ever guidelines for shark and ray tourism, to help maintain the livelihood of these animals while allowing visitors to continue learning about them.Destination Stewardship – At our more than 500 destinations around the world, we partnered with local governments, tourism businesses, communities, and our guests to protect and care for the places we visit.Emissions reduction – Royal Caribbean Group achieved its carbon reduction target of 35% and has committed to further reduce emissions 25% by 2025.Circular economy – The company is working to achieve zero waste across the Royal Caribbean Group fleet.Sustainable sourcing – The company has a commitment to source 90% of wild-caught seafood and 75% of farmed seafood, served on Royal Caribbean Group ships from certified sustainable sources, a first for the cruise industry.The Apex of Change for Celebrity Cruises As the exquisite Celebrity Apex sailed into the setting sun from Port Everglades, the moment was made sweeter as the ship's Godmother, Reshma Saujani, the inspiring the founder of groundbreaking non-profit Girls Who Code and the Marshall Plan for Moms and author of bestseller, “Brave, Not Perfect” joined Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Celebrity Cruises' President and CEO, and Richard Fain, Chairman of the Royal Caribbean Group and hundreds of guests including local dignitaries and media and influencers in an official naming ceremony of the stunning vessel.Saujani is a lifelong activist who surged onto the political scene as the first Indian American woman to run for U.S. Congress in 2010. Her viral TED Talk and international bestseller “Brave, Not Perfect” have sparked a worldwide conversation about how we're raising our girls and inspired countless women to fear less, fail more and live better.Since launching in the U.S. in 2012, Girls Who Code has reached 450,000 girls across the globe at nearly every stage of their educational journey. With a presence in the UK, U.S., India, and Canada the organization runs free programming for girls from ages 11-18, to inspire them to get excited about coding and computer science by providing learning opportunities, clear career pathways and a supportive sisterhood of peers and role models. In 2019, Girls Who Code was named the No.1 Non-Profit on Fast Company's The World's Most Innovative Companies list.Building on her work to empower women and girls, Reshma has most recently founded the Marshall Plan for Moms, a campaign to put women at the center of our nation's economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. After witnessing the impact the pandemic had on working mothers, millions of whom were pushed out of the workforce to care for children and take on increased labor at home, she built a movement to champion public and private sector policies to support all moms. Her efforts have led lawmakers to introduce resolutions in support of the plan.Celebrity Apex‘s much-anticipated arrival to U.S ports is a landmark moment for the brand, as the vessel's launch was originally planned for March 2020. Following a short run of Greek Island sailings this past summer, the ship now embarks for the first time from U.S shores on rotating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, where guests will visit the picturesque islands of Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, Belize, Grand Caymans and more.DANZA DEL MARE A Symbol of the MSC Foundation's efforts to protect the SeaThe sublime sculpture Danza del Mare was created for the MSC Foundation in partnership with Venini, one of the world's most esteemed glassmakers in the world which this year celebrates its 100 Anniversary. As a work of art, the creation, symbolises MSC Foundation's dedication to protecting and promoting the natural environment of which we are a part and upon which we depend: our Blue Planet. The sculpture was designed by Monica Guggisberg and Philip Baldwin for MSC Seashore and is located in the MSC Foundation Centre, rising from deck 5 to deck 8, surrounded by a mirror wall that proliferates the light and colours emanating from it, lit by a spotlight located in its base.The design uses the magical, fluid medium of glass to express the fluidity of the seas and everything in them, animal, vegetable and mineral, coral, fish, seaweed and oxygen. The immense depth and expanse of the sea, covering 71% of our world's surface, is contained in the imagery of the sculpture, in its great height and the density of its contents, as if it were the sea itself in a soaring prism of charged and moving constituents. Partly an image of Earth's lungs, partly an image of Earth's nutrition and partly an image of simple beauty, it symbolises the sea's indispensable role in our and our planet's wellbeing. We are dependent upon it. It is not dependent upon us.Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' new flagship Bolette makes inaugural sailing from SouthamptonFred. Olsen Cruise Lines' new flagship Bolette is setting sail on her first venture from Southampton, marking the start of its inaugural season of sailing from the city.Between now and August 2022, Bolette will offer 26 hand-crafted sailings from Southampton, including opportunities to witness the Northern Lights in Norway and the Geminid Meteor Shower in the Canary Islands.The ship will set sail to Antwerp and Amsterdam on Bolette's five-night ‘Netherlands & Belgium City Break' this evening, with future destinations including the Amalfi Coast, Norwegian fjords, European cities and Iceland. Durations range from four to 19-nights.Highlights of Bolette's inaugural programme from Southampton include:Bolette's 14-night T2129 ‘Landscapes of the Canaries' cruise, departing from Southampton on 6 Dec 2021. Guests aboard will have the chance to witness the Geminid Meteor Shower during this cruise.Itinerary: Southampton, England – Las Palmas, Gran Canaria – Santa Cruz, La Palma – Santa Cruz, Tenerife – San Sebastian, La Gomera – Funchal, Madeira – Lisbon, Portugal – Southampton, EnglandBolette's seven-night T2210 ‘Norwegian Fjords & Mighty Waterfalls' cruise, departing from Southampton on 15 May 2022. Sail size-restricted Lysefjord on this sailing, only accessible to smaller ships, steeped by mountainous cliffs including the famous Pulpit Rock.Itinerary: Southampton, England – cruising Lysefjord, Norway – cruising Jøsenfjord, Norway – Eidfjord, Norway – cruise Hardangerfjord, Norway – cruising Maurangerfjord and Furebergfossen (to see Fureberg Waterfall), Norway – Olden, Norway – cruising Nordfjord, Norway – cruising by Hornelen, Norway – Haugesund, Norway – Southampton, EnglandBolette's 18-night T2213 ‘Discovering the Balkans' cruise, departing from Southampton on 14 Jun 2022. Visit cities of deep historical importance in shaping the Balkan's fascinating history, as well as lesser-known destinations off the beaten tourist trail.Itinerary: Southampton, England – Cartagena, Spain – cruising Strait of Messina, Italy – cruising Bay of Kotor, Montenegro – Kotor, Montenegro – Dubrovnik, Croatia – Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina – Split, Croatia – Durres, Albania – cruise Strait of Messina – Cagliari, Sardinia – Tangier, Morocco – Southampton, EnglandNew flagship Bolette set sail with Fred. Olsen for the first time in August 2021, following an extensive refurbishment project. Named after the great-great-Grandmother of company Chairman Fred. Olsen Junior, Bolette carries 1,338-guests at full capacity, and continues to offer the small ship experience, attention to detail and personal service for which Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is renownedAdventures by Disney Announces Expedition Cruises to the ArcticExpanded cruise destinations in 2023 offer families a unique way to explore the abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of the Polar Regions and the Galápagos IslandsFamilies will journey through fjords and pass ice floes as they explore the spectacular landscapes and diverse wildlife of the Arctic on an all-new Adventures by Disney Expedition Cruise. With voyages beginning in 2023, guests will embark on an exciting adventure with a team of naturalists and Adventure Guides for an unforgettable adventure with the whole family. Select sailings add an extra bit of magic to the adventure with special guests, including former Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde who will lead sketching sessions on an upcoming Arctic Expedition Cruise.New Family Expedition Cruises to the ArcticWith the introduction of the Arctic Expedition Cruise, Adventures by Disney now offers family vacation experiences to both polar regions, each with its own distinctive landscape and wildlife. Scheduled for two departures in 2023 (June and July), the 10-day, nine-night, Arctic Expedition Cruises will sail on a charted adventure with PONANT, a leader in luxury polar expeditions. Former Imagineer Joe Rohde will join the July 2023 sailing and will delight guests with amazing tales from his Disney career and share his passion for nature and conservation. Rohde will also host fun sketching sessions for guests, even those with no artistic experience.Following a welcome dinner and overnight stay in Oslo, Norway, adventurers fly to Svalbard to board Le Boreal to explore Northern Norway and the Arctic. Unlike its polar opposite, the Arctic is home to permanent residents and has a fascinating history of human inhabitants. While in Longyearbyen, the largest town of Norway's Svalbard archipelago and the northernmost settlement on the planet with a permanent population of more than 1,000, guests will further explore this former mining town.Guests will view the breathtaking glaciers of this region's most beautiful fjord, Kongsfjorden and embark on daily boat excursions where they may see some of the region's unique wildlife including polar bears, reindeer, arctic foxes and walruses.Family Expedition Cruises to AntarcticaAdventures by Disney has added three departures for the 12-day, 11-night Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruises which will sail with PONANT. The added itineraries will depart in December 2022 and early 2023.This adventure takes travelers to the southernmost tip of Argentine Patagonia, to visit the resort town of Ushuaia before boarding their vessel to travel through the Drake Passage. As the journey continues, guests will soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Antarctica, where each day brings a new adventure. Daily boat excursions and hikes along the continent's shorelines, provide the opportunity to catch glimpses of native wildlife like seabirds, penguins and seals in their natural habitat. With offshore activities defined by nature, every wildlife viewing will be unique to the sailing.Pre-cruise Experience in Buenos AiresTravelers booked on an Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise can add even more adventure with the Buenos Aires Escape. This four-day, three-night guided group experience will highlight must-see attractions as well as the hidden gems of Argentina's capital.  Guests will learn to dance the tango with a private demonstration, enjoy the countryside tradition of horseback riding while visiting a local estancia and experience the epicurean delights and cosmopolitan culture of Buenos Aires.Dream Cruises celebrates one-year milestone in Singapore with World Dream!Dream Cruises celebrates a new milestone this November with World Dream as the ship approaches its special first anniversary of cruise resumption in Singapore. Dream Cruises pioneered safe cruising in Singapore and since its inception on 6 Nov 2020, World Dream has welcomed close to 200,000 Singapore residents aboard with over 150 ‘Super Seacation' voyages to date. Bookings for World Dream continue to show a positive trend, as most sailings for the remaining months of 2021 are almost sold out, complemented by a strong momentum in the early months of 2022In conjunction with the upcoming year-end school holidays and the festive season, Dream Cruises is bringing an abundance of holiday cheer and spirit on World Dream with ‘A Nordic Christmas Adventure' special from 17 Nov2021 – 1 Jan 2022. Set sail with World Dream and enjoy the festive traditions of Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark and Iceland with your loved ones this holiday season. Explore the Christmas magic at sea on World Dream, including the specially created Nordic Village with a chance to meet Santa and other popular X' Mas characters, discover the famous Nordic baking and a variety of festive attractions at the Nordic Market, indulge in sumptuous roast turkey, lobsters, salmon and many more Scandinavian gourmet, as well as a wide array of Christmas arts and craft workshops and so much more.These various initiatives have led to a rise and expansion of markets, as more Singapore residents become receptive, well-informed and open to the idea and value of cruising. Cruise demand for World Dream in Singapore has been on the rise from younger travellers, including Millennials and Gen X-ers, as well as couples with no children or families with non-school-going young children. With a wider market demographic, guests on board spending on World Dream in Singapore have also increase by 37.5% in 2021 as compared to pre-pandemic in 2019Viking Announces New Expedition Voyages For Summer 2023Viking announced the summer 2023 season of its expedition voyages, including a new two-week itinerary in the Great Lakes—as well as additional offerings in North and South America. Debuting in June 2023, the new 15-day Great Lakes Collection itinerary will sail between Toronto and Duluth, providing guests with a complete view of the region and ports of call in all five Great Lakes. As a result of strong demand, Viking has also announced 2023 sailing dates for four existing Great Lakes expedition voyages: the 8-day Niagara & the Great Lakes, Great Lakes Explorer, and Undiscovered Great Lakes itineraries, as well as the 13-day Canadian Discovery itinerary.Three additional expedition voyages in North and South America will also debut in summer 2023. The new, 16-day Canada & the Atlantic Coastline itinerary will expand offerings along the St. Lawrence River and Atlantic coastline, featuring destinations that include Quebec City, Trois-Rivières, Norfolk, Charleston and more. Guests can discover the natural beauty of Patagonia while sailing from Santiago to Ushuaia on the new 14-day Patagonian Shores & Chilean Fjords itinerary, while guests looking to explore destinations in North, Central and South America, can choose the new 18-day itinerary Panama & Scenic South America.The new Polar Class Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. Designed by the same experienced nautical architects and engineers that designed Viking ocean ships, the ships are optimally sized and built for expeditions—small enough to navigate remote polar regions and the St. Lawrence River, while large enough to provide superior handling and stability in the roughest seas. The ships will feature public spaces that are familiar to Viking's ocean voyage guests but that have been reimagined for expeditions, as well as new public spaces created specifically for expeditions. Straight bows, longer hulls and state-of-the-art fin stabilizers will allow the ships to glide over the waves for the calmest possible journey; ice-strengthened Polar Class hulls will provide the safest way to explore; and U-tank stabilizers will significantly decrease rolling by up to 50 percent when the ships are stationary. Viking's expedition ships will feature modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail.And moreEthical Cruise T-Shirts Now available branded podcast t-shirts, cruise-tees and Christmas gifts or design your own in the studio. 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