About Adventures by Disney

As Disney Cruise Line revolutionized – and in some ways defined – the family cruise vacation, award-winning tour operator Adventures by Disney has re-created the way families think about vacationing together.

Launched in 2005, Adventures by Disney provides immersive, hassle-free and unforgettable guided family vacation experiences to destinations in Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia and Australia. Families traveling with Adventures by Disney receive exceptional service while taking part in extraordinary experiences from Cape Town to Paris, Yellowstone to Costa Rica, the ruins of Pompeii to the ruins of Machu Picchu, the Great Barrier Reef to the Great Wall of China and more.

For the second year in a row, Adventures by Disney was named World's Leading Luxury Tour Operator and North America's Leading Tour Operator by the World Travel Awards, which sets to recognize and celebrate excellence in global tourism, hospitality and travel. It also received two Travel Weekly Magellan Awards for its website and consumer collateral, awarded for the second year in these categories.

With Disney-trained Adventure Guides, engaging activities, VIP experiences and personal touches throughout, Adventures by Disney excites and delights every member of the family.

For more about the specific offerings of Adventures by Disney take a look at the news item “Adventures by Disney” at Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine, or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit adventuresbydisney.com or call Adventures by Disney at 877/728-7282.

Official Confetti Sponsor of Times Square New Year’s Eve Lets Visitors Add Personal Wishes for 2011 to the Celebration

For the first time ever, Carnival Cruise Lines is infusing its fun spirit into the world’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration in New York’s Times Square. Carnival today announced it is the official confetti sponsor of the Times Square New Year’s Eve 2011 celebration, bringing its signature fun and popular brand to the annual gathering of more than a million revelers. The sponsorship includes multiple opportunities to associate the “Fun Ship” brand with the annual excitement and engage Times Square visitors and Carnival fans online with the option to have their wishes for 2011 added to the celebration’s confetti.

Carnival’s Senior Cruise Director John Heald will lead the official confetti air-worthiness test in Times Square in late December. He will then grace the main event stage on December 31 to lead the New Year’s Eve celebrants in a practice countdown, complete with 500 pounds of Carnival-colored red, white and blue confetti, the first confetti drop of the New Year’s Eve 2011 party. At the stroke of midnight on January 1, 2011, a ton of colorful Carnival Confetti, hand-tossed by approximately 100 “confetti dispersal engineers,” including a number of lucky Carnival employees, will fill the New York City skyline. Carnival will also engage the crowd through billboard advertisements and a text to win cruise giveaway on New Year’s Eve.

“Carnival is thrilled to be part of New York City’s New Year’s Eve celebration and add our brand of participatory fun to the festivities,” said Jim Berra, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Carnival Cruise Lines. “There is no place more iconic and energetic than Times Square on New Year’s Eve, so the opportunity to be the official confetti sponsor of this celebration is a great way for us to reinforce the fun our guests experience and to kick off the New Year for our brand. We’ll also be sending warm thoughts of Caribbean climes and tropical breezes to the revelers braving the cold by giving away a Carnival cruise vacation to one lucky person.”

For an overview of Carnival Cruises see the Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine profile of Carnival Cruises.

Silversea Opens 2012 Cruises for Sale

Announcing that cruises for 2012 are now open for sale, Silversea Cruises have revealed a line up of more than 200 cruises to almost 450 destinations in more than 100 countries on seven continents.

"The world is an amazing place, and it's our goal to create opportunities for travelers to explore its marvels in exceptional style and comfort," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "Our 2012 schedule has been carefully designed to offer a broad range of travel choices, including multiple-day calls and overnight stays showcasing traditional must-see destinations, as well as journeys to remote regions that are inaccessible to mega-ships."

Some of the exciting destinations include eight new Silversea destinations: Santander, Spain; Porto Novo, Cape Verde; Larnaca, Cyprus; Kuwait City, Kuwait; Sihanoukville (also known as Kampong Som), Cambodia; Christiansted, St. Croix; and Ireland's Foynes and Killybegs.

For more about the 2012 cruises take a look at the latest Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine news page at SILVERSEA CRUISES FOR 2012 or take a look at the official web site at www.silversea.com

An overview of the cruise line can found at PROW'S EDGE CRUISE LINE PROFILES - SILVERSEA

Cunard Makes History with First Female Captain

When Inger Klein Olsen assumed command of Cunard Line's Queen Victoria on Wednesday, 1 December 2010, she made history by becoming the venerable shipping line's first female captain.

Captain Olsen’s first task at the helm of Queen Victoria was to take the ship, without passengers, to drydock in Hamburg for its planned refit. Next Wednesday, 15 December, she will be on the bridge as the ship sets sail with a full complement of guests.

Forty-three-year-old Captain Olsen was born and raised in the Faroe Islands, which accounts for her maritime abilities, and she joined Cunard in 1997 as First Officer on board Caronia. In 2001 she transferred to the Seabourn fleet, which at that time was part of Cunard. She sailed on Seabourn Sun and Seabourn Spirit before being promoted to the rank of Staff Captain on Seabourn Pride in 2003.

Following some years with other companies within the Carnival Corporation group, Captain Olsen returned to Cunard in August this year as Deputy Captain of Queen Victoria.

“While we are far from being the first shipping company to have a female captain, it is nonetheless noteworthy when such a long-established British institution as Cunard makes a break with its captaincy tradition,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard. “But as Mark Twain drily observed, 'the folks at Cunard wouldn't appoint Noah himself as captain until he had worked his way up through the ranks.’ Inger has certainly done that,” Shanks continued, “and we are delighted to welcome her as our first woman driver.”

Olsen will helm Queen Victoria during the ship's debut Americas season, commencing from New York to Los Angeles on 13 January. During the first 17-day voyage, the ship will call on Ft. Lauderdale and Bonaire, transit the Panama Canal, and visit three ports in Mexico - Huatulco, Acapulco and Manzanillo - before arriving into Los Angeles on 30 January. Captain Olsen will take her leave on 13 February.

Queen Victoria's Americas season continues until 18 March, and features several transits through the Panama Canal, four calls to Los Angeles, two roundtrip voyages from Los Angeles to Hawaii, and one Getaway voyage to Mexico.

Captain Olsen lives in Denmark.

For more information about Queen Victoria and to book a voyage, consult your travel professional, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD (1-800-728-6273) or go to www.cunard.com.

Cruise Ship Lectures

We have all been to those lectures on board a cruise ship - very often wondering why we would bother if it were not for the significant other telling us it woud be good and then finding out that they were right!

And haven't we also - years later - wished that we could have made notes about all that wonderful information.

Well - now Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine is pleased to introduce a new section CRUISE LECTURES in which we bring you those notes you had wished you had made.

Starting the new section, Dr John Augelli shares his notes from his lectures on a wide range of topics from cooking in Italy to all about the Vikings.

John Augelli has authored three books, five monographs, 41 major articles, and more than 50 other scholarly publications, and is also the recipient of numerous honors and recognitions.

Take a look at this and other new features aboard Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine

Windjammer Gatherings of the Fleet

At certain times of the year and for special events the sailing ships of the The Maine Windjammer Association get together in what is called the “gathering of the fleet”.

It is a rare thrill to see all these beauties together.

The line up for 2011 gatherings includes:

• Schooner Gam – Week of June 13th, 2011
Kick off the summer season with a windjammer gathering of the entire fleet! Relive the age of sail during this quiet rendezvous of more than a dozen 19th-century-style sailing ships. Location is determined by the weather of the day!



• Windjammer Days – Week of June 20th, 2011
Participate in a grand sail parade through picturesque Boothbay Harbor. Majestic windjammers come from up and down the coast to participate in this exciting early-season event. Shoreside activities include music and fireworks.



• Great Schooner Race – Week of July 4th, 2011
More than two dozen tall ships gather for an exciting all-day race in which guests may participate. This year marks the 32nd anniversary of the Great Schooner Race, North America’s largest annual gathering of tall ships!



• Maine Windjammer Parade – Friday, July 15th, 2011
The entire windjammer fleet participates in an afternoon Parade of Sail past the mile-long Rockland Breakwater, providing spectators with stunning, close-up views of Maine’s fleet of tall ships. Festivities also include tours of the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, free trolley rides to satellite parking areas and Owls Head Transportation Museum flyover.



• Music Festival – Week of August 1st, 2011
Many of the windjammers gather midweek for the Sweet Chariot Music Festival on Swans Island where more than a dozen groups perform traditional music of the sea. Fleet also gathers on Friday night for live shipboard performances ranging from sea chanteys and blues to story-telling and folk.



• Camden Windjammer Weekend – September 2nd & 3rd, 2011
The fleet gathers in picturesque Camden Harbor for festivities reminiscent of the days when hundreds of coastal schooners lined the waterfront. Festivities include a parade of sail, flag-raising ceremonies, live music, dancing and fireworks. 


• WoodenBoat Sail-In – Week of September 12th, 2011 (Tues. Sep. 13th)
The fall gathering of the fleet takes place in Brooklin, Maine, headquarters of WoodenBoat Magazine and WoodenBoat School. Now in its 25th year, the event includes refreshments, live music, tours and a harbor full of historic schooners.

For an overview of the ships of the Maine Windjammer Association, take a look at the Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine profile at http://www.prowsedge.com/cruise-lines-maine-windjammer-cruises.html or for more information about the Maine Windjammer Association visit the web site at http://www.sailmainecoast.com

Black Sea Specials from Variety Cruises

Variety Cruises offers a whole new line up of new cruises including Black Sea Treasures and Turquoise Coast & Islands of Eastern Aegean in 2011 with pre-/post-cruise land specials.

Passengers can book by February 1 to enjoy free accommodations, breakfast, transfers and tours to compliment their intimate cruise expedition.

The eight-day Black Sea Treasures cruise sails July – August 2011. The Pegasus mega yacht (22-cabins) travels one-way from Odessa, Ukraine to Istanbul, Turkey (or reverse direction). Passengers breathe in the history of ancient sites in Romania, Bulgaria and the Crimea Peninsula. Fares start at $2,690 per person. Limited Time Special – Free land tour in Istanbul OR Kiev, plus two hotel nights with daily buffet breakfast and private transfers.

The eight-day Turquoise Coast & Islands of the Eastern Aegean cruise will sail aboard the Halis Temel motor yacht (12 cabins) April – November 2011. The program explores coasts of Turkey and Greek islands of the Aegean. Fares start at $1,490 per person. Limited Time Special – Free two-night Istanbul stay with hotel and daily buffet breakfast OR three-night Marmaris stay with hotel and daily buffet breakfast.

Specials are available for a limited number of cabins and subject to availability at time of booking. For more details, please visit www.varietycruises.com or call 1-866-944-8498 (Canada) and 1-800-319-7776 (US).

For more information about other cruise lines, take a look at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine

Mid-Voyage Land Adventures from Silversea

Exploring the further reaches of ports of call is usually only possible at the start or end of a cruise, when there is more time to do so. This is one of the reasons that pre- and post cruise packages are so popular.

Recognizing this, Silversea Cruises has introduced a whole new line up of single- and multiple-day inland adventures for their cruise passengers, offering them a more extensive experience of the ports of call and what lies beyond.

"We continue to develop new programs that will allow our guests to enjoy authentic onshore experiences," said Darius Mehta, Silversea's associate vice president of air and land programs. "These mid-voyage adventures are carefully designed to take guests further into a specific region, giving them plenty of time to actively engage in its scenery, activities and cultural heritage."

The exciting selection of these new land-adventures include discovering the heart of the Australian outback by rail aboard the glamorous Indian Pacific train, venturing into the eastern Pyrenees to find the tiny, landlocked Principality of Andorra, or taking a trip to Camp Jabulani, set within the Kapama Private Game Reserve of Kruger National Park.

For more details of this and other land adventures offered by Silversea Cruises, take a look at the latest Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine news item at SILVERSEA REVEALS NEW MID-VOYAGE LAND ADVENTURES.

For more information about Silversea Cruises visit the official web site at http://www.silversea.com

SeaDream Chef Sudesh Kishhore joins the chefs at Prow's Edge

Executive Chef Sudesh Kishore with SeaDream Yacht Club joins the impressive line up of international and celebrity, cruise line chefs who have shared their recipes with Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine.

In this latest addition to the line up of free recipes for the readers of Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, Chef Sudesh Kishore presents a recipe for Cream of Pumpkin Soup.

Having joined SeaDream Yacht Club in 2001, Chef Sudesh Kishore knows how to make a SeaDreamers’ mouth water. His recipe for Cream of Pumpkin Soup is no exception.

Aside from the ever popular and delicious lobster and lamb entrees, Sudesh always adds his Indian heritage onto the menu somewhere. In fact, it’s now become a given for guests to get their Indian cuisine fix by the master himself. Some say a voyage with Sudesh just wouldn’t be complete otherwise.

Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine offers more than 30 cruise line food recipes highlighting the talents of more than 25 cruise line chefs like Jacque Pépin for Oceania Cruises and Rudi Sodamin for Holland America Line.

Recipes, advice and everything you need to know about cruise food can be found at the Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine Cruise Food section - from how to figure out where the best cruise line food is to be found, to the cruise line's cookbooks.

More information about SeaDream Yacht Club can be seen at http://www.seadreamyachtclub.com/

9 Awards for Holland America Line

Holland America Line has just won a whole slew of awards from Porthole Cruise Magazine's 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards.

These awards include :

· Best Eco-Friendly Cruise Line
· Best Private Island (Half Moon Cay)
· Best Alaska Itineraries
· Best Northern Europe Itineraries
· Best Central/ South America Itineraries (including Panama Canal)
· Best Canada/ New England Itineraries
· Best Shore Excursions
· Best Medical Facilities
· Best Overall Facilities for Physically Challenged Passengers

For more information about these awards and Holland America Line visit the latest Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine news item Holland America Line wins 9 awards from Porthole Cruise Magazine or visit the Holland America Line site at http://www.hollandamerica.com

World's Largest Ships Meet

Royal Caribbean International’s newest cruise ship, Allure of the Seas, received a warm welcome from more than 8,000 guests and crew members aboard sister-ship Oasis of the Seas on Saturday, November 13.

The world’s two largest and most revolutionary cruise ships were together for the first time at sea just two days after Allure of the Seas completed a 13-day trans-Atlantic journey from Turku, Finland.

In a friendly case of sibling rivalry, Allure of the Seas' captain, Hernan Zini, confirms that his ship is five centimeters longer than Oasis of the Seas, allowing room for even more exciting onboard features, such as new dining options, including the first Starbucks at sea, entertainment, including the DreamWorks experience, retail offerings, and Royal Caribbean's continued commitment to provide its signature Gold Anchor Service.

For more information about Royal Caribbean International visit http://www.royalcaribbean.com or for over 500 pages of quality information about cruises i general take a look at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine

Exciting New Alaska Cruises Shore Excursions

If you have been on a cruise to Alaska you’re probably intimate with the many wonderful things the state has to offer in the way of shore excursions - from taking a helicopter ride over the mountains of ice to wildlife watching.

The competition of most of the cruise lines now trying to attract repeat passengers is to offer new and even more exciting shore excursion opportunities.

Oceania Cruises is no exception.

In their new line up of Alaska shore excursions for 2011, exciting new opportunities incude their most unusual “Bering Sea: Crab Fisherman’s Tour” led by a seasoned Bering Sea captain and crew aboard Aleutian Ballad, the storied crab boat seen on Season 2 of the Discovery Channel series, “Deadliest Catch.”

Another is the “World’s Largest Zip-Line” on Ziprider, the world’s largest and longest zip-line over the treetops and down a mountain at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

For a full line up of these new shore excursions in Alaska take a look at the latest Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine news item about OCEANIA CRUISES ALASKA SHORE EXCURSIONS FOR 2011.

For more information about Oceania Cruises visit the official web site at http://www.oceaniacruises.com/

Or for a comprehensive travel web site all about Alaska, take a look at Travel Tidings Alaska.

Photo: Courtesy Icy Straight Point

Cunard Line Joins the Parade

For the first time, Cunard Line is set to take part in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade® with a float designed by renowned artist and float designer Raul Rodriguez.


“We are delighted to be part of such a celebrated event like the Rose Parade,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. “This year’s Rose Parade theme of building dreams, friendships and memories, ties perfectly with our legacy and heritage. For more than 170 years sailing the seven seas, the Cunard name has been synonymous with fulfilling aspirations, fostering life-long friendships, and creating memorable experiences for all of our guests.”

Fiesta Parade Floats based in Irwindale, California, is the leading, award-winning float-builder in the Tournament of Roses Parade, having designed and built 17 consecutive Sweepstakes Trophy winners. Fiesta is also considered the leader in both floral technology and floral application throughout the float and floral industries - led by Jim Hynd, vice president and floral director - surpassing all other builders in the field of computerized and hydraulic animation.

For more details about the float, visit the latest news page Cunard Line reveals their float for the Pasadena Tournament of Roses at Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine.

The Pasadena Tournament of Roses is a volunteer organization that annually hosts the Rose Parade taking place Saturday, 1 January 2011, at 8 a.m. (PST) featuring majestic floral floats, high-stepping equestrian units and spirited marching bands.

Best Cruise Line Food - Prow's Edge Results

The results are in!

Gathering information and feedback from our readers in various polls over the past year, as well as taking their unsolicited comments into consideration, and adding to the mix, the opinions of our regular professional travel writers and contributors, Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine is pleased to announce the cruise lines that top their lists for BEST CRUISE LINE FOOD for 2010.

The Best Cruise Food to be found on CONTEMPORARY CRUISE LINES in 2010






Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line vie for joint leader position in both food and food service on a contemporary cruise line for the year 2010.

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The Best Cruise Food to be found on PREMIUM CRUISE LINES in 2010



Celebrity Cruises consistently comes to the top of the list of the premium cruise lines for 2010 in both the food and food service categories.

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The Best Cruise Food to be found on LUXURY CRUISE LINES in 2010





Crystal Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises are at the head of the list in 2010 of best cruise food on a luxury cruise line. Crystal Cruises score slightly higher in food service.

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The Best Cruise Food to be found on ULTRA-LUXURY BOUTIQUE CRUISE LINES in 2010







SeaDream, The Yachts of Seabourn, and Silversea Cruises top the list of offering the best cruise food in the ultra-luxury cruise line sector in 2010 with SeaDream leading the way in food service.

For more information about crusie line food, with recipes from the cruise line chefs - take a look at the Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine Cruise Food section.

Volga Dream Cruises Into Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine

MS Volga Dream, the only 5-star river vessel in Russia which operates cruises between Moscow and St. Petersburg and between Moscow and Astrakhan is one of the most elegant river ships in Europe and she has now joined the long list of cruise line / cruise ship profiles in the cruise line section of Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine.

Widely lauded as one the best small ships and rating top of the list in food quality and friendly staff and crew, the Volga Dream is responsible for introducing European standards of quality and service on the Russian Waterways.

MS Volga Dream carries 109 passengers, with a crew of 60. The ship has 56 comfortable cabins and all feature either a window or a porthole and a bathroom with separate glass shower. Each cabin is equipped with air conditioning, mini-bar, safety deposit box, telephone, and flat screen television featuring international satellite programming and films as well as various radio and music channel options.

With 60 crew members and a capacity for just over 100 passengers, the Volga Dream has the lowest passenger-to-crew ratio on the waterways. With so few guests amid the ship’s spacious arrangement, it feels like sailing aboard a private yacht.

For more information about the 190 passenger, MS Volga Dream – take a look at the Volga Dream profile at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine or visit the official web site at www.volgadream.com

Royal Caribbean Revitalizes 5 Cruise Ships

Good new for fans of the Royal Caribbean cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean has announced that two more ships will be added to the 3 cruise ships already programmed for extensive improvements and enhancements.

The Radiance of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas join the Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas for revitalizations planned for 2011 as part of the cruise line’s 40th Anniversary - just a taste of what Royal Caribbean calls “The Royal Advantage”, the cruise line’s commitment to provide guests with the industry’s most innovative cruise ships, exciting destinations and superior Gold Anchor Service to help create an extraordinary cruise vacation.

“The Royal Advantage is our commitment to continuously contemporize and innovate our vacation offering and deliver the highest the standards of guest satisfaction through our Gold Anchor Service,” said Betsy O’Rourke, senior vice president of Marketing, Royal Caribbean International.

“The planned enhancements of five ships in 2011 will help expand some of the most successful programs that we have launched on our incredible Oasis-class ships to deliver these new ‘wows’ to more ships in our fleet. With November 7 marking our 40th anniversary, we are proud to continue to deliver more to see, do, and love than ever before to our guests.”

For information about these improvements, take a look at the latest new pages at Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine and in particular, http://www.prowsedge.com/cruise-news-royal-caribbean-ship-revitalizations-1109.html

For the official Royal Caribbean web site visit: http://www.royalcaribbean.com

Best Cruise Line for Seeing the World

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has triumphed in the Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards. The Ipswich-based cruise line – with its Norwegian heritage, and fleet of four smaller, traditional ships – has been voted Best for Seeing the World by the influential cruise website.

Fred. Olsen operates cruises all over the world, most of which are ex-UK and sail from a number of convenient regional ports. They range from 2-3 night mini-cruises, to long epic voyages, ‘Around the World’ and ‘Around South America’.

Commenting on the award, Fred. Olsen’s Marketing Director, Nigel Lingard, said, “The human scale of our ships appeals to many people, who enjoy an informal and friendly experience and, of course, as the judges have recognised, smaller ships have access to some of the more remote and fascinating ports around the world - places that larger ships cannot reach.”

Find out more about Fred. Olsen’s cruises worldwide by visiting www.fredolsencruises.co.uk

New Princess Cruises Cruisetours

If you are looking to make the most of your Europe cruise, instead of just flying in the ship and flying home again, Princess Cruises has announced two new exciting two new cruisetour options for passengers on Europe cruises next year.

The 16-night Ancient Petra and the Dead Sea Cruisetour and the new 20-night Timeless Cities of the Rhine River cruisetour add to the already impressive list of Europe Cruisetours that include the Rome and Venice Cruisetour and the Europe’s Imperial Treasures tour.

Take a look at the latest Princess Cruises news about these tours at http://www.prowsedge.com/cruise-news-princess-cruises-cruise-tours-1108.html

One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise and tour company operating a fleet of 17 modern ships renowned for their innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all provided in an environment of exceptional customer service. A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess offers its passengers the opportunity to escape to the top destinations around the globe, ranging in length from seven to 107 days.

Visit Princess Cruises at http://www.princess.com/

More Cruise Recipes at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine

Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine now offers many more free cruise ship recipes from world famous and celebrity chefs, like Jacques Pépin and Georges Blanc. For a taste of what's on offer take a look at the latest Prow's Edge video introducing these cruise line chefs.




Or visit the cruise line chefs recipes pages now at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine

Cruise Ship Wi-Fi Access

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has announced that guests can now benefit from a Wi-Fi service on board its ships. Currently, the service is live and fully operational on three ships in the fleet - Black Watch, Braemar and Balmoral. It will be available on Boudicca from January 2011.

There are Wi-Fi ‘hot spots’ on each ship. They are located as follows:-

Black Watch – Library
Braemar – Library and Braemar Lounge
Balmoral – Library, Card Room and Braemar Lounge

Guests can purchase tokens and bundle packages for Wi-Fi internet minutes from Reception, at competitive rates, and these charges will be applied to their onboard accounts. Each token contains a PIN code, and the user will be prompted for this when their laptop or mobile device connects to the wireless network.

Guests wanting Internet access, without using the Wi-Fi service, will still be able to make use of the Internet Centres, on all four ships, to connect whilst on board.

The new service means that guests can connect using their own laptops or mobile devices, if they wish to, and will have greater choice and more flexibility for staying connected while on board.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www.fredolsencruises.co.uk

New Cruise Food Section at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine

Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine introduces the brand new cruise food section with news about the latest in cruise food, with items of interest such as the historic partnership of Holland America line with famed Le Cirque restaurant in Le Cirque teams up with Holland America Line Holland America Line’s Master Chef Rudi Sodamin is working with Le Cirque’s Executive Chef Craig Hopson to re-create the legendary eatery’s whimsical ambiance and award-winning dining experience on board .

There is news too about news about cruise line chefs like three Star Michelin chef Heinz Beck, Master Chef Andre Soltner and colorful celebrity chef Jon Ashton joining the Crystal Cruises’ 15th annual Wine & Food Experiences of Discovery series in 2011 in Star chefs star on board Crystal Cruises in 2011 In addition to food events and hands-on instruction, days at sea will feature chefs’ demos, wine tastings, pairing sessions and lessons in the art of the perfect cocktail.

There is also cruise food news from Holland Holland America Line at Holland America Line Creates the Holland America Line Culinary Council about Holland America Line's Culinary Council of celebrated chefs from around the world who have come together to enrich Holland America Line’s culinary initiatives and to present signature recipes to be featured in all dining venues on all 15 ships. The Culinary Council members include Council Chairman and Holland America Line’s Master Chef Rudi Sodamin, along with renowned international chefs Jonnie Boer, David Burke, Marcus Samuelsson, Jacques Torres and Charlie Trotter.

And there is news also about how Celebrity Cruises has adapted their casual dining experience in Celebrity Cruises redesigns their evening casual dining experience with news about the revamping of the Celebrity Cruises evening offerings in its “lido,” or primary casual dining venues.

For more cruise food news and indeed many pages of information about cruise line food, take a look at the Cruise Food Section of Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine and discover a host of cruise ship recipes and more.

New Rudi Sodamin / Holland America Line Cookbook

Completing the Holland America Line Culinary Signature Collections cookbooks, published by Rizzoli, Holland America Line’s Master Chef Rudi Sodamin has written his third cookbook, “A Taste of Celebration” .

The first two titles are Sodamin’s “A Taste of Excellence” and “A Taste of Elegance”, and all three are available at the Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine Cookbooks page and in bookstores and on on board Holland America Line cruise ships.

“A Taste of Celebration” is filled with Sodamin’s inspired recipes for complete menus — from appetizers to desserts — for 16 celebratory occasions.

These include 11 holidays: Valentine’s Day, Passover, Easter, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Father’s Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Also included are recipes for a Captain’s Dinner, Master Chef’s Dinner (a Holland America Line signature event), Super Bowl Sunday, birthday or anniversary celebration and a cocktail party. All of the menus feature distinctive four-star favorites from Sodamin’s extensive recipe collection.

Chef Rudi Sodamin shares one of the recipes for Prow’s Edge readers – Vegetarian Black Bean Chili – the perfect dish for Super Bowl Sunday – and joins the many celebrity chefs featured in the cruise food section of Prow's Edge.

Sodamin is internationally recognized as a food authority and one of the hospitality industry's most innovative chefs. He continues to direct the evolution of fine dining and unique menu options at Holland America Line, including the introduction of alternative dining venues such as the Italian-themed Canaletto and pan-Asian Tamarind, a highly acclaimed, exclusive dining experience on Signature-class ships ms Eurodam and ms Nieuw Amsterdam.

Sodamin is a member of the Academy Culinaire de France, Maîtres Cuisiners de France and Honoree Member Club des Chefs des Chefs.

For more recipes from cruise line chefs, visit the popular Cruise Line Recipes at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine.

For more about Holland America Line visit the official web site at http://www.hollandamerica.com

Savings for Singles

Both Silversea Cruises and Pandaw River Cruises have announced dramatic savings for single cruisers.

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has reduced the single supplement on more than 20 sailings in 2011 to just 10% - 25% (above the per-person, double-occupancy fare) for Vista, Veranda and Midship Veranda suites.

Initially launched last summer on select 2010 voyages, the line's specially reduced Solo Traveler fares proved such a popular incentive with independent travelers that the company is extending the offer to select 2011 itineraries.

For a complete list of 2011 sailings offering single supplements from 10% to 25% visit Silversea.com and click on Special Offers.

Similarly, Pandaw River Cruises have announced "no single supplements" for the January 1, 2011 departure of the RV Orient Pandaw "Into the Heart of Borneo" cruise.

For more information on this and other savings take a look at the Pandaw River Cruises web site at www.pandaw.com

For an overview of these and other cruise lines, take a look at the Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine cruise line profiles.

Princess Cruises Ships Begin Plugging into Shore Power in San Francisco

Princess Cruises recently helped to inaugurate the Port of San Francisco’s new shore power facility by “plugging in” to electric power from shore.

The new shore power technology at the Port of San Francisco cruise ship terminal enables Princess Cruises’ ships, and other equipped vessels, to use power from the city’s grid instead of the engines to power the ship’s onboard services--reducing emissions when docked in San Francisco.

The port becomes the fourth in the world where Princess Cruises’ ships can take advantage of this innovative technology. The new shore power installation in San Francisco is a cooperative effort by the Port of San Francisco, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, the Environmental Protection Agency, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises.

Princess’ shore power program made history when it debuted in Juneau, Alaska in 2001. It expanded to Seattle in 2005, and then to Vancouver in 2009. Shore power connections are planned to roll out in other ports that have made commitments to the technology, including Los Angeles and San Diego. Currently nine of the line’s ships are outfitted with the capability to “plug in” to a shoreside power source, representing an investment for Princess of nearly $7 million in equipment alone.

To create this unique power system, also known as “cold ironing,” Princess has outfitted its ships with custom-built connection cabinets that join the ship’s electrical network to the local electric system ashore. The electric power is transmitted from a landside transformer to the vessel via four 3½-inch diameter flexible cables. The actual cable connection on a vessel is a traditional, though quite large, plug and socket. The length of time needed to connect a ship to shore power and shut down the vessel’s diesel generators is approximately 40 minutes. Once connected, the ship’s engines are powered down and, simultaneously, the necessary amount of power is delivered to run the ship’s services while in port.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com

For information about over 40 ports of call around the world, visit the ports profiles at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine.

Victoria Cruises doing OK!

In light of the recent shutdown of Cruise West and subsequent concern over small cruise lines, American-managed Victoria Cruises, which offers five-star river cruises on China's mist-shrouded Yangtze – has assured the public that cruise business is actually doing quite well in China despite the economic difficulties faced by most travel entities around the world.



“The economies of the U.S. and European Union have affected our percentages of Western guests, but they have not hurt our business,” added Greenman, noting that this is due to the rapidly growing middle class in China, who are for the first time in the country's history able to travel their own heritage. “Western guests now have more opportunities to take away first-hand experiences by communicating with Chinese guests," he explained.



Victoria Cruises’ most popular program is the Three Gorges Highlights itinerary featuring excursions to the impressive Three Gorges Dam in San Dou Ping, and the “Ghost City” of Fengdu at Mingshan Hill and a sailing experience through the impressive Small Gorges of the Daning River one of the Yangtze’s tributaries. 



Rates for Victoria Cruises’ highly-acclaimed Three Gorges Highlights program (four nights upstream or three nights downstream) between Chongqing and Yichang start from $880 per person, based on double occupancy, during peak season (April, May, September and October), and $810 per person, based on double occupancy, during the shoulder season (March, June, July, August and November).



For more information about Victoria Cruises visit the Victoria Cruises profile at Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine or visit the official Victoria Cruises web site at at http://www.victoriacruises.com

To The Galapagos Islands on the Galapagos Explorer

Galapagos Explorer announces special rates for winter and early specials for 2011.

The all-suite 100-passenger M/V Galapagos Explorer II is an exceptional way to explore the Galapagos Islands, with promotions available during 2010 to include discounts up to $1,100 per person.

Rates start at $1,240.00 with a special last minute rate at $1.671 for an all inclusive package available for all departures in fall 2010.

For 2011 there is ta special promotion with rates that start at $1,291 for the cruise only or $1,839 for the all inclusive package. Conditions apply to all promotional rates.

Take a look at the Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine profile about the Galapagos Explorer or check the Galapagos Explorer web site at www.galapagosexplorer.com

Cunard Takes Delivery of Queen Elizabeth

30 September 2010 – Cunard Line has taken delivery of Queen Elizabeth – the second largest Cunarder ever built and the third new liner for the luxury cruise vacation company in six years.

The Handover Ceremony took place today on board the new 92,400-ton vessel at the Fincantieri Monfalcone shipyard. The event included a speech by Cunard President Peter Shanks. The Italian flag was ceremonially lowered and the Blue Ensign was raised, marking the entry of another magnificent Cunard liner into the Register of British Shipping.

“This ceremony to mark the completion of the Queen Elizabeth and our acceptance of delivery, is just the first of a number of significant events over the next few weeks – including the ship’s official naming by Her Majesty The Queen in Southampton on Monday 11 October,” said Shanks. “I’m certain the British will take this truly magnificent ship to their hearts, as they have all the Cunard Queens.”

Queen Elizabeth is due to leave the shipyard on 30 September and sail to Southampton, where she will berth at the Ocean Cruise Terminal on Friday 8 October.

Queen Elizabeth will depart on her Maiden Voyage at 5:00pm on Tuesday 12 October.

For more information and to book a Cunard voyage aboard Queen Elizabeth go to www.cunard.com.

Christmas ‘The More the Merrier’ Rates from MSC

Because MSC Cruises believes holidays are meant to be shared with families and friends, the cruise line is offering a special “The More the Merrier” rate with significant savings on the Christmas sailing of MSC Poesia in the Caribbean.

The special rate is available on MSC Poesia’s December 19, 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary from Fort Lauderdale.

With “The More the Merrier” rates, guests in the first stateroom pay the early booking rate while guests in the second stateroom pay 50% off the early booking rate. For those booking an inside stateroom, for example, rates start as low as $649 per person for the first stateroom and $324.50 per person for the second stateroom. Rates for a balcony stateroom begin at $949 per person for the first stateroom and $474.50 per person for the second.

The cruise-only rate is applicable when four guests book two staterooms at the same time. Government fees and taxes are additional. Offer expires on October 15.

MSC Poesia’s December 19 roundtrip cruise from Fort Lauderdale includes calls at Key West, Florida; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico; and a Christmas celebration at sea.

MSC Poesia features sophisticated and elegant decor, attention to detail, the finest in international entertainment and Italian hospitality and an eco-friendly design. Of the 1,275 staterooms, of which 80 percent are outside staterooms and 65 percent have a balcony. The ship has a generous 236,000 square feet of public spaces, two pools and four hot tubs, plus a 13,000-square-foot Balinese spa. Guests can select from four restaurants, including a Sushi Bar alternative dining restaurant.

For more information about MSC Cruises, visit www.msccruisesusa.com, call 877-665-4655, or contact a local travel professional.

Special “2-for-one” Antarctic Voyage Offer

If you’ve ever hankered after seeing the extraordinary wildlife of Antarctica and its breathtaking scenery, Oceanwide Expeditions has just made it easier for you with a special “2 for the price of 1” offer on two 18-nights voyages to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula in November and December.

The “book one person and get the second place free of charge” offer is on Oceanwide’s new vessel Plancius from November 4 to November 22, and again from November 22 to December 10.

Cruise rates for these voyages are:

Quadruple cabin: US$8,250 per person (this cruise price will now cover 2 persons)

Twin cabin: US$9,990 per person (now the cruise price for 2 persons).

Superior cabin: US$11,550 per person (ditto – now the cruise price for 2).

Prices include accommodation aboard the vessel, all meals, excursions and harbour fees. Prices exclude flights and any pre- and post tours.

Originally built as an oceanographic research vessel, the Plancius was completely rebuilt in 2009. It accommodates 114 passengers in 53 passenger cabins with private toilet and shower in 4 quadruple private cabins, 39 twin private cabins (ca. 15 square meters) and 10 twin superior cabins (ca. 21 square meters). All cabins are outside cabins with porthole or window. The Plancius offers a restaurant/lecture room on deck 3 and a spacious observation lounge (with bar) on deck 5. M/v "Plancius" has large open deck spaces providing great opportunities to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

Oceanwide also offers travellers a 10-days all-inclusive Antarctica cruise aboard “Plancius” during Christmas from 20 to 29 December or a New Year voyage from 29 December to January 7). These voyages include flights from Miami, hotels, transfers and cruise for only US$6,990 per person in a twin cabin and US$6,150 per person in a quadruple cabin.

The Plancius Antarctica voyages start and end in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world located in the shadow of the Andes and right at the Beagle Channel shore. The Plancius sails through this scenic waterway during the afternoon.

For more information about Oceanwide Cruises and details of these four voyages go to http://www.oceanwide-expeditions.com/

For a brief overview of Oceanwide Cruises take a look at the Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine profile of Oceanwide Expeditions.

How Important is Food on a Cruise ?

Take our poll at the top right corner and help us figure out just how important food is on a cruise to most cruise passengers.

Although everyone talks about it, and tell you how much weight they put on over the 7 days of their last cruise - we suspect that this may be a case of the Emperor's clothes and that many of you don't actually care that much about the food.

The challenge is on - let us know!

Norwegian Cruise Line to air 44 regular season football games

If you just don't want to leave the game behind – Norwegian Cruise Line will be the host of America’s favorite pastime as the National Football League (NFL) season kicks off this fall. Norwegian will broadcast 44 NFL regular season games including three exciting match ups on Thanksgiving Day.

In addition to the Sunday and Thursday night games, eight playoff games, the NFC and the AFC conference championships, and the ultimate battle for the championship ring, the Super Bowl, will be broadcast on the line’s fleet of Freestyle Cruising ships (except Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem while in Europe).

Guests can pack their jerseys and support their favorite NFL teams while relaxing in one of the many Freestyle venues on board Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Star, Norwegian Sun, Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Spirit and Pride of America.

To book a cruise call Norwegian at 866-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), visit www.ncl.com, or contact a travel professional.

For a brief overview of NCL, see the PROW'S EDGE CRUISE MAGAZINE NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE PROFILE.

Yangtze Spectacular

Always on the lookout for something different for cruise passengers, Prow's Edge brings you news of the Yangtze Spectacular from Victoria Cruises.

The Yangtze Spectacular begins in Beijing where highlights include Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City as well as the less obvious Temple of Heaven and a culturally authentic rickshaw ride through the ancient alleyways of the Hutong – a traditional 700-year-old cottage neighborhood – culminating with lunch at a local family’s home.

Continuing on to Xi’an, travellers will be impressed by the Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit, which includes more than 6,000 life-sized statues buried near the first Qin Emperor more than 2,000 years ago. Guests will also enjoy a special Dumpling Banquet, colorful Tang Dynasty Show, sightseeing at the Ming Dynasty Wall and a visit to the Shanxi Provincial Museum. A Xi’an Night Tour will lead participants to the fascinating Muslim Quarter Market, providing travellers with a unique perspective.

Guests will then fly to Yichang where they will board the luxurious Victoria Queen (or similar five-star Victoria Cruises vessel) for a four-night Yangtze River sailing. In addition to marvelous views of centuries-old temples and pagodas nestled along the mist shrouded Yangtze, travellers will enjoy exciting Cultural Entertainment and many onboard activities such as morning Tai Chi lessons.

Cruise excursions include the Three Gorges Dam in Sandouping, an extraordinary feat of engineering, as well as the “Ghost City” of Fengdu at Mingshan Hill, complete with statues of spirits and demons.

The highlight of the cruise experience is sure to be a journey through the impressive Small Gorges of the Daning River, one of the Yangtze’s tributaries. The scenic voyage will bring passengers to a floating dock near Dachang, where they will disembark to board a traditional sampan for a tranquil ride through the “Mini Gorges” of the Ma Du River, a tributary of the Daning (Daning River excursion may be substituted with Shennong Stream depending on river conditions).

Passengers will disembark in Chongqing, where they will have an opportunity to see the charming Panda Exhibit at the Chongqing Zoo prior to their flight to Guilin.

In Guilin, travellers will enjoy a tour of Fubo Hill and 180-million-year-old Reed Flute Cave, followed by a Guilin Cultural Show on their first evening in the city. The next morning features a delightful cruise on the picturesque Li River, which disembarks in Yangshuo where guests can check out the colorful local market. Visitors will also enjoy views of the Rice Paddies and Country Landscapes as well as a Guilin Night Tour to Pedestrian Market.

Upon arrival in Shanghai the following day, passengers will immediately head off to Suzhou, often referred to as the “Venice of the East.” A visit to the Master of Fishing Nets Garden and cruise tour of the Suzhou Canal will prove most rewarding. A stop at a unique Silk Factory will be followed by lunch and visit to the delightful Water Village of Tongli, a town with a history spanning more than 1,000 years. The programme also includes a Suzhou Night Tour.

Finally, the trip culminates in Shanghai where highlights include the historic waterfront promenade known as The Bund, classical Yu Yuan Garden and the ultra-modern Pudong Development Zone. Travellers will get an up-close look at the famous Oriental Pearl TV Tower and enjoy a Huangpu River Night Cruise.

Guests will have a free day in Shanghai at the end of the programme to pursue individual interests. Optional activities may include the Nanjing Road shopping district or the 2010 Shanghai World Expo (only available though Oct. 31). Lunch is by travellers’ own arrangement on the final day, however, a China Farewell Dinner will provide a memorable conclusion to this once in a lifetime experience.

For more information or to book, consult your local travel agent, contact China Star Holiday toll free at 866-388-1188, or by visiting the tour operator’s website at www.chinastarholiday.com.

For more information abo0ut Victoria Cruises contact Victoria Cruises at 57-08 39th Avenue, Woodside, NY 11377; phone (800) 348-8084, (212) 818-1680; fax (212) 818-9889 or visit http://www.victoriacruises.com.

October Wine & Culinary Adventure

Exceptional scenery, exquisite wining and dining, kayaking and an all-inclusive experience round out a perfect week of discovery and adventure on American Safari Cruises’ Wine & Culinary cruise.

The October 2, 2010 departure features Cordon Bleu-trained Executive Chef Kirsten Dixon of Alaska’s Winterlake Lodge, guest Sommelier, private wine tours and tastings, and complimentary massage and yoga classes.

All guests will receive a signed copy of Chef Dixon’s cookbook, a signed copy of the Wine Trails of Washington by wine expert Steve Roberts and a 40 page hard cover photo book depicting images from the cruise (one per stateroom). In addition, an onboard drawing will be held for a post-cruise hosted wine party valued at $1,500 to be held at the winning guest’s home. American safari Cruises will supply the Sommelier, wine and certificates for future cruise savings for all party attendees.

The seven-night Wine & Culinary cruise is offered aboard the exquisitely appointed 36-guest yacht, Safari Explorer, traveling one-way between Portland, Oregon, and Lewiston, Idaho. Cruising down the scenic and historical Columbia River, highlights include the mesmerizing Palouse River Canyon, kayaking in hidden channels, a visit to Multnomah Falls, a thrilling jet boat ride into Hell’s Canyon and five private wine tours. Rounding out each day of adventure is a sommelier hosted onboard wine tasting of classic wines from the Pacific Northwest. Swirl, smell, sip and enjoy.

Prices begin at $4,895 per person, double occupancy. For additional information visit http://americansafaricruises.com or to book an American Safari Cruises’ voyage for your client call 1-888-862-8881.


The 36-guest Safari Explorer offers an on-deck hot tub, sauna, exercise equipment, two-person kayaks and motorized shore boats for close-up exploration, a wine library, and a large-screen TV in the main salon. Exceptional cuisine is prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and the complimentary bar offers premium spirits, fine wines and microbrews. All staterooms offer Tempur-pedic mattresses, flat screen TV and DVD players and an iPod docking station. The guest-crew ratio is 2 to 1, with an all-American crew that includes professional naturalists and Captains with extensive local knowledge.

About American Safari Cruises
American Safari Cruises pioneered yacht cruising in Alaska 12 years ago; the company is owned by InnerSea Discoveries, based in Seattle, WA. For more information call: 888-862-8881.

Cruise those Unused Vacation Days

It’s hard to believe, but did you know that many Americans only take up to three quarters of their vacation days. This actually means that over-worked Americans give up an average of 459 million vacation days each year.

This is not a good thing.

Based on these overwhelming facts, Royal Caribbean is encouraging consumers to use their hard-earned vacation days and reminding them that even The President - a person with arguably one of the hardest jobs in America - needs to get away every now and then.

"Vacations are not a luxury, they're a necessity," says John de Graaf, Executive Director of Take Back Your Time, a nonprofit organization that studies issues related to overwork. "Men who take them are 32% less likely to suffer from heart disease than those who don't. For women, it's 50%. And women who don't take vacations are more than twice as likely to suffer from depression. Pass them by at your peril."

For more information about the Royal Caribbean International drive to make sure Americans don’t leave their vacation days behind, take a look at the Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine news item at CRUISE THEM OR LOSE THEM

Her Majesty the Queen to Name Queen Elizabeth

Cunard Line is pleased to announce that Her Majesty The Queen will name the company’s new Queen Elizabeth, the third Cunard ship to bear the name, at a ceremony to take place in Southampton, England on Monday, 11 October 2010.

The naming will be a milestone in British maritime history and will be a major event of worldwide interest.

“The naming of a Cunard Queen is a very special occasion and this will be an historic event in the true sense of the word,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. “The Queen launched Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth 2 in 1967 and named our current flagship, Queen Mary 2, in 2004. We are both honoured and proud that Her Majesty will name our new liner, Queen Elizabeth,” added Shanks.

Her Majesty was also present at the age of 12 at the launch of the first Queen Elizabeth on 27 September 1938 when she accompanied her mother, Queen Elizabeth, to Clydebank for the launch.

The Naming Ceremony will take place in Southampton on Monday, 11 October and Queen Elizabeth will set sail on her Maiden Voyage the following day.

Other historic namings of Cunard ships by British royalty over the Line’s 170-year history include the following:

Her Majesty The Queen, as Princess Elizabeth, launched Caronia, the ‘Green Goddess,’ in 1947.

Her Majesty Queen Mary, wife of King George V, launched Queen Mary in 1934 – and in so doing became the first British Monarch ever to launch a merchant ship. His Majesty King George V accompanied his wife.

The late Queen Mother, as Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, launched Queen Elizabeth in 1938. Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret accompanied their mother.

HRH The Princess Margaret launched Carinthia in 1955.

HRH The Duchess of Cornwall named Queen Victoria in Southampton in December 2007. HRH The Prince of Wales was also in attendance.

For more information and to book a voyage aboard Queen Elizabeth, consult your Travel Agent, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD (1-800-728-6273) or go to http://queenelizabeth.cunard.com/.