Cruise Lines Create Innovative Cuisine

Cruise Lines Create Innovative Cuisine

As you face the turkey left-overs, the turkey fry-up, the turkey sandwiches and the turkey soup, spare a thought for those lucky cruisers who’ll be tucking into the appetizing cruise line cuisine in 2012.

A major trend in shipboard dining is more choice of restaurants and cuisines, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) (see Cruise Lines Redefine Shipboard Dining).

The new larger cruise ships especially reflect this trend. Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas each offer 25 dining options, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic offers more than 20.

Carnival Cruise Lines is investing $500-million in the first phase of a “Fun Ship 2.0” program offering new dining and entertainment choices on 14 ships; Cunard Line is enhancing its well-established dining traditions with new alternative restaurants and more international menus; Disney Cruise Line’s new Disney Dream features Remy, the company’s first-ever premier dining option, created by Michelin two-star chef Arnaud Lallement.

Silversea Cruises has teamed up with the exclusive “Relais & Chateaux L’Ecoles des Chefs” interactive cooking school. Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ “Food, Wine & Spirits Spotlight Series” features partnerships with Napa Valley’s Private Reserve and Tommaso Barletta, proprietor of the “Let’s Get Cooking Culinary Institute.”

In addition to its shipboard Culinary Arts Centers which feature a wide range of culinary enrichment programs, Holland America Line has introduced new dishes created by the celebrity chefs of the line’s Culinary Council. Princess Cruises has partnered with the Mighty Leaf Tea Company to create the “Leaves Tea Lounge and Library” on the Grand Princess.

For more information about CLIA and cruise ship dining, please visit www.cruising.org.

There is much more about cruises and cruise lines at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favorite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Cruise Lines Redefine Shipboard Dining

.... and the 16 million vacationers who are expected to have cruised this year would not have it any other way and don’t care a hoot about those extra pounds.

Research by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) suggests that the latest trends in shipboard restaurants and menus, innovative culinary experiences with celebrity chefs, the expanding choice in dining venues, exciting brand partnerships, healthy options, food-related enrichment programs and culinary themed voyages are exactly what the public craves.

The latest study of consumer attitudes and intentions from CLIA revealed that over half of experienced cruisers ranked fine dining as the number one benefit of a cruise vacation.

In a 2011 survey of 1,000 CLIA travel agents, dining was ranked as the second most important factor in choosing a cruise line, behind accommodations; 75 percent of agents said dining is gaining in importance among their clients. Among consumers, 75 percent are looking for new and different dining experiences onboard ships but 65 percent also want traditional dining. And, only 10 percent of cruisers worry that they will gain weight on their vacation.

How far can the cruise lines go? For an over-the-top experiences, take a look at Crystal Cruises’ seven-course extravaganza once or twice a year created by Michelin-starred chefs – in 2012, Heinz Beck, with multiple Michelin starred restaurants on his resume, with impossible-to-purchase wine pairings – for approximately $1,000 per person. By the way, Crystal also announced that its ships will go “all-inclusive” next year, offering complimentary wines and premium spirits, open bars in all lounges, and pre-paid gratuities.

For more information about CLIA and cruise ship dining, visit www.cruising.org.

There is much more about cruises and cruise lines at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favorite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Cunard Flagship Queen Mary 2 Gets Refit

As if she wasn’t grand enough! Cunard Line’s flagship Queen Mary 2 has returned to her Southampton homeport after a major refurbishment that will prepare her to welcome guests for her upcoming luxury cruise vacations.

The Hamburg shipyard Blohm & Voss undertook the refurbishment, with work undertaken in all staterooms and suites, the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, the Queens Grill and Princess Grill Restaurants, the Commodore Club, the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar (shown here), Sir Samuel’s Bar and Lounge and the children’s Play Zone. The popular Golden Lion Pub also was completely redesigned.

A special new portrait of Her Majesty The Queen was unveiled in honour of her role in launching Queen Mary 2 in 2004. The commissioned oil painting - which will be displayed in the Grand Lobby - depicts The Queen during her final visit to Queen Elizabeth 2 in Southampton on 2 June 2008, and was painted by Gail Graham, an art director of The European magazine. This will be the second portrait of Her Majesty on board a Cunard ship. A specially-commissioned portrait of Her Majesty also hangs in the Grand Lobby of the Line’s newest ship, Queen Elizabeth, which she also launched in October 2010.

Thousands of workers replaced the equivalent of almost ten football fields of carpet and manufacturing about 18 miles of fabric into over 6,000 individual items in Queen Mary 2’s 14-day refit.

For more information about Cunard Line visit www.cunard.com.

There is more about all sorts of cruises at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favourite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Grand Prix de Monaco Tour for Silversea Guests

There is a special treat in store for guests sailing on the nearly sold-out Silver Spirit voyage of May 24, 2012. Silversea is offering an optional two-day "70th Grand Prix de Monaco" land package.

Guests will have the opportunity to experience the thrill of a Formula One race at the Monaco Grand Prix during the ship's overnight visit on May 26. On Saturday, guests will enjoy witnessing the time trials (practice runs for the drivers and their cars) from Tribune K reserved seats. In the evening, guests attend an invitation-only cocktail reception hosted by the ship's captain and a former Grand Prix driver, followed by a themed dinner of Mediterranean and Monegasque cuisine served in La Terrazza. On Sunday, guests return to their same reserved seats for the exciting final race.

The tour includes escorted transfers and a gift package of spectator essentials featuring Bushnell binoculars, an official "70th Grand Prix de Monaco" program, souvenir drawstring bag, hat, seat cushion and protective earplugs.

This special two-day, mid-voyage land adventure (priced at $1,799 per guest) is only offered on Silver Spirit's May 24 voyage (#5213), sailing from Barcelona to Rome.

For more information on Silversea Cruises visit www.silversea.com.

There is more about many other cruises at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favourite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Norwegian Cruise Line Jumpstarts Wave Season

Norwegian Cruise Lines has jumped the gun on the cruise industry’s traditional Wave Season – the period between January and March when savvy cruisers cash in on great cruise deals.

Traditionally there’s more than low prices on offer. To celebrate Wave Season cruise lines sweeten the pot with mouth-watering perks, among them credits for shipboard spending, free cabin/suite upgrades, free airfares and early booking discounts.

Norwegian Cruise Line is offering a jumpstart on the savings by launching its “Norwegians Take it to the Next Level” sales event. All new cruise reservations on all ships booked through March 31, 2012, will receive a free upgrade within the same stateroom category, along with e-coupons providing on-board savings worth $400 (for sailings taking place before December 31, 2012). Once booked and checked in online, guests will receive electronic coupons for spa treatments, internet minutes and a complimentary dinner in a specialty restaurant.

Through December 18, 2011, as a special bonus, Norwegian Cruise Line is offering cruisers the opportunity to “take it to the next level” with a mini-suite for the price of a balcony; balcony staterooms for the price of an oceanview, and oceanview staterooms for the price of inside staterooms on all ships and destinations. Cruise deposits during this time for sailings of three days or longer are reduced by 50 percent.

For more details on the “Norwegians Take it to the Next Level” sales event, including promotion details, visit www.ncl.com.

There is much more about cruises and cruise lines at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favourite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Costa Cruises Leads the Way in Environmental Social Fields

According to the sixth edition of its annual sustainability report covering fiscal year December 2009 through November 2010, Costa Cruises has made some great gains in both the environmental and social fields.

Improvements include an increase of 26 percent in the proportion of garbage (paper, plastic, glass, metal) recycled in ports, a reduction of approximately 11 percent in fuel consumption, a reduction of over 34 percent in the production of ozone-depleting substances from refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. In July 2010 Costa Cruises, through its partnership with World Wildlife Fund Italia, became the first and only cruise line in the world to participate in the pilot REPCET project, a reporting system aimed at reducing collisions between ships and whales.

Costa Cruises not only operates in accordance with prevailing environmental laws, the line sets more ambitious objectives through a management and control system that goes beyond the scope of mandatory requirements of local, national and international regulations, and proactively seeks solutions to improve environmental protection.

For more information about this and other tidbits about Costa Cruises take a look at the latest news entry for Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine.

Cruise Lines Offer Dining and Beverage Packages

Is this a glimpse of a growing trend in future cruising? Cruise lines are now increasingly offering dining and even beverage packages at onboard specialty restaurants.

With so many onboard dining options, Royal Caribbean International offers guests seven dining packages to enjoy the variety of specialty restaurants available aboard select ships. Guests can take advantage of the new specialty dining packages, which range from $50 to $120 per guest (saving at least 25 percent compared to the sum of the individual restaurants’ cover charges).

For instance, guests aboard Radiance of the Seas may choose the Radiance Dining Package, which includes Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table, Izumi and Samba Grill for $70 per guest.

For additional information on these packages or to make reservations, call your travel agent, or visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com

Meanwhile, Oceania Cruises has introduced two new beverage packages on voyages beginning in 2012. While all Oceania Cruises guests will continue to enjoy unlimited complimentary soft drinks, bottled water, specialty coffees and teas on every sailing, they are also being offered beverage packages.

House Wine and Beer, priced at $29.95 per guest, per day, includes house wine by the glass and beer with lunch and dinner in any dining venue or via room service. The second option, Open Bar, priced at $49.95 per guest, per day, includes beer and premium house wine by the glass and most beverages on the bar menu. Guests can also order spirits and beer through room service.

For more information, visit www.OceaniaCruises.com, contact a professional travel agent or call toll-free 800-531-5658.

There is more about all sorts of cruises at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favourite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Crystal Cruises Snaps Up Master Photographers

Bring along your camera – anything from that vintage art deco style Kodak Baby Brownie to the latest digital creation – and join award-winning Master Photographers on 11 Crystal Cruises sailings in 2012.

“The Master Collection” line-up consists of top-tier professional portrait photographers who have the distinction of being Fellows (highest certification possible) of the British Institute of Professional Photographers (BIPP) and the Master Photographers Association (MPA).

Travelers will be able to arrange private photography sessions aboard Crystal Symphony, Crystal Serenity, or at exotic destinations on land with pros renowned for their portraiture. Individuals, couples, or families/groups can opt for different wardrobe, locations, and activities to customize their shoots.

One Master Photographer will be on each of the following sailings: January 18 LA-Sydney; February 6 Miami-Rio; February 7 Sydney-Singapore; March 3 Buenos Aires-Miami; March 13: Hong Kong-Osaka; March 31 Osaka-LA; May 8 NY-London; July 8 Copenhagen-Stockholm; September 5 London-NY; October 12 Athens-Venice; October 31 NY-LA;

The Master Photographer will also host an informal talk giving trade tips and insight into their life and work, as well as mentor staff photographers while aboard.

To glean more information and for cruising on Crystal, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

Read all about all sorts of cruises at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favourite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Star-studded Lineup on American Queen

The entertainment line-up for the inaugural season of the Steamer American Queen, including the line’s inaugural season Riverlorian, is going to be a smash-hit.

Top entertainers will bring down the house in the American Queen’s palatial Grand Saloon night after magical night. Every evening, guests will be treated to a different celebration of America’s best music, from Broadway hits to Dixieland Jazz, big band to bluegrass, ragtime to rock and roll. Showboat-style cabaret acts and old-fashioned radio shows add variety and charm to the evening lineup.

The entertainment in the Grand Saloon will have guests’ toes tapping, but the enrichment and historical aspects will have their senses piqued. As the American Queen carries forward the 100+ yearlong legacy of the fabled Delta Queen Steamboat Company, it is only fitting that a much-loved Delta Queen veteran serve as the inaugural Riverlorian. Mary Charlton, who has served as Riverlorian aboard the Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen in the past is returning in her starring role.

Great American Steamboat Company offers a variety of voyage lengths, ranging from three nights to ten nights, and with fares beginning at $995 per guest offers exceptional value and convenience, with little or no flying required.

In addition to the best early booking bonuses in the industry, the ‘Steamboating Plus’ program offers a complimentary luxury hotel stay before or after sailing along with transfers, a welcome brunch and much more.

For more information on the Great American Steamboat Company call 888-749-5280 or visit www.GreatAmericanSteamboatCompany.com .

There is more about all sorts of cruises at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favourite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Discover Russia with Volga Dream Cruises

The Bolshoi theatre has finally re-opened having been restored to its pre-Soviet glory after a six-year overhaul .... and in 2012 lucky cruisers on the MS Volga Dream can look forward to a visit backstage and to opera or ballet performances at the Bolshoi and Mariinsky theaters.

Volga Dream cruiseline has planned an amazing journey through the heart of Russia from May 29 to June 10 from Moscow to St.Petersburg.

The cruise will provide a combination of music, history and art together with an insight into modern Russia and a close-look at the momentous changes taking place there.

Among the trip highlights will be private opera performances on board MS Volga Dream by soloists of the Moscow Helicon Opera and lectures about the greatest Russian writers by a professor of Slavic Languages of Yale University.

Visits to the Tolstoy house and Dostoevsky memorial apartment are included and specially arranged early entrances to the Hermitage and state Armory.

There will be guided tours of the Diamond Fund, Tretyakov Gallery and the State Russian Museum and visits to the Kremlin, Red Square, Novodevichie cemetery, Peterhof, Catherine’s Palace and Yusupov Palace.

Accommodation includes 3 nights at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Moscow, 6 nights on board MS Volga Dream, and 3 nights at the Grand Hotel Europe in St. Petersburg.

Rates are from Euro 4,985 per person.

For more information about river cruises with Volga Dream Cruises please visit www.volgadream.com

There is more about MS Volga Dream cruises at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favourite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Escape to the Tropics

Bringing its all-inclusive luxury experience to the tropics with 10- and 11-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers many convenient roundtrip departures from Fort Lauderdale.

The 10 Tropical Escapes aboard the all-inclusive Regent Seven Seas’ all-suite Seven Seas Navigator are available from January through April 2012. Two-for-one fares start at $4,999 per guest and include free round-trip air and bonus savings of up to $2,000 per suite on select sailings if you book by December 30.

As part of the deal, guests will enjoy a free one-night luxury hotel package before sailing and choose from as many as 51 complimentary shore excursions. Depending on the port of call, guests can learn to scuba dive on the world-renown reefs of Cozumel or discover the secret Mayan underworld by trekking and rappelling through a maze of caves in Belize.

For more information on Regent Seven Seas Cruises visit www.RSSC.com or call toll-free 800-285-1835.

Find out more about Regent Seven Seas Cruises at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine, your favourite Internet cruise magazine source at www.ProwsEdge.com

Still the World’s Most Beautiful Voyage

Visiting 32 unique ports in 11 days, Hurtigruten's "Classic Norwegian Discovery Voyage" delves into Norway's rich heritage, from the UNESCO harbor town of Bergen to the small fishing villages of Kjollefjord and Berlevag.

Previously named the "world's most beautiful voyage" by Lonely Planet's "Bluelist," the route garnered even more attention earlier this year as the subject of the Guinness World Record for "Longest Live TV Documentary," a 134-hour broadcast that attracted nearly six million viewers from 148 countries.

Highlights of the voyage include the beautiful Art Nouveau town of Ålesund; Molde, with its magnificent view of the Romsdal Alps; the charming streets of Trondheim, Norway's first capital; crossing the Arctic Circle; the picturesque Lofoten Islands; and Hammerfest, the world's most northerly town. Fares for the March 15 to May 31, 2012 departures range from $2,354 to $10,841 per person, double; higher pricing is for suites. Members of the 1893 Ambassador Club, a loyalty club for those who have previously sailed on Hurtigruten, receive 10% off as well as a range of onboard benefits.

Embarking from Bergen, the voyage sails through Hjeltefjord to the UNESCO listed Geirangerfjord, which affords unbeatable panoramic views of the Seven Sisters waterfall.

In Trondheim, guests can view the city from the Gamle Bybrua ("Old Town Bridge") and visit Norway's largest Gothic religious structure, the centuries-old Nidaros Cathedral, before traveling past the Kjeungskjær lighthouse and crossing the Arctic Circle.

The Lofoten Islands, located within the Arctic Circle, are rich with history of both land and sea: its shores are the site of the Lofotr Viking Museum and it is located near the world's largest deep water coral reef.

Other ports include Kirkenes, home to the famous Kirkenes Snowhotel and Gabba Reindeer Park; Hammerfest, a center of Sami culture; Honningsvåg, the gateway to the North Cape; and Kristiansund, where some scientists believe the first Norwegians originated from.

The voyage ends its journey in Ålesund, the most important fishing harbor in Norway and home to the Norwegian Centre of Art Nouveau Architecture, before returning to Bergen.

For additional information visit www.hurtigruten.us or by phone: (877) 301-3117; fax (888) 524-2145; for brochures (800) 582-0835, 24 hours a day.

Love Boat Relieves

A remarkable 9.5-foot-long replica of the original “Love Boat” – Pacific Princess – constructed entirely of LEGOs not only attracted the attention of fans at the Brickworld convention in Chicago, it even attracted the famous television show’s captain, actor Gavin MacLeod.

MacLeod, a Princess Cruises ambassador, paid a visit to the convention to surprise the LEGO "Love Boat" creator, Ryan McNaught. One of the few master LEGO builders in the world, McNaught had no idea he would come face to face with the real "Love Boat" captain. McNaught, who was even presented with his own captain’s hat, called the experience “mind blowing – especially after seeing him on TV for all those years.”

In return, MacLeod was astounded by the extraordinary ship constructed from more than 250,000 LEGO bricks. It’s the largest single project ever undertaken by McNaught, the son of a Melbourne, Australia travel agent, and a cruise fan himself.
The model features the exterior of the famous ship on one side, while the other side is an open cutaway revealing all the action inside - from chefs in the kitchen to passengers working out in the health club. Flashing LED lights for the disco and tiny motors powering the propellers and elevators complete the replica.

MacLeod was also especially interested to see the ship features the TV show cast, with LEGO models of his own Captain Stubing, as well as purser Gopher, cruise director Julie, and even some of the show’s most famous guests.

Brickworld, held annually in Chicago, is one of the largest LEGO conventions in the world.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.

Photo: Gavin MacLeod and LEGO “Love Boat” builder Ryan McNaught at Brickworld in Chicago

Amazonia Featured on Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

As part of Vistas, its wide-ranging cruise enhancement programme, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is proud to welcome on board the famed explorer Colonel John Blashford-Snell. Lecturing aboard Braemar’s cruise of the Brazilian Amazon, M1203, appropriately he will be talking about ‘Amazonia’ and expeditions to this fascinating region.

There could hardly be a better guest speaker for such an exciting cruise; John Blashford-Snell has led some of the most ambitious expeditions ever undertaken. In 1968, when Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia invited the British Army to send a team to explore the Blue Nile, the then Royal Engineers’ Captain Blashford-Snell was invited to select and lead a team. The success of that venture led to many more, including the first vehicle crossing of the Darien Gap in 1971/2, and in 1974/5 the navigating of 2,700 miles of the Great Zaire River (also known as the Congo).

Colonel John Blashford-Snell has led over 100 expeditions, resulting in many important discoveries and supports numerous charities. His knowledge and experience will no doubt make him a fascinating and well-informed speaker.

The cruise departs on 2nd February 2012, with flights from London-Gatwick and Manchester, to join the ship in Bridgetown, Barbados. Braemar then sails for the mouth of the Amazon, and cruises deep into the heart of this mighty river, visiting Santarem, Parintins and Manaus. The vibrant rainforest, with its colourful flora and fauna, will be brought even more vividly to life by the expert talks courtesy of Col. Blashford-Snell.

On the return journey, Braemar visits Tobago, then returns to Barbados for the flights home.

Prices start from £1,939 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside twin cabin, Grade ‘I’. The price includes return chartered flights and transfers, accommodation and all meals and entertainment on board, in addition to port and airport taxes. Flights are with a fully - escorted exclusive Fred. Olsen charter.

Find out more about this cruise by visiting www.fredolsencruises.com Book online, by calling reservations on 01473 742424, or through any ABTA travel agent. Find our more about the Vistas enhancement programme by visiting www.fredolsencruises-vistas.com

Have a look at the Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine to find out more about Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and other cruises all over the world

Mary Higgins Clark and Crystal Cruises

With 42 bestselling books to her name, novelist Mary Higgins Clark, a.k.a. the “Queen of Suspense,” knows a thing or two about keeping audiences on the edges of their seats. Now, lucky fans can hear her spin tales about her life, career, and suspense-writing secrets, live and in person on Crystal Cruises’ “Beyond the Bosporous” sailing from Venice to Istanbul on September 7.

Clark didn’t achieve success writing books until her late ‘40’s, when her second book, Where are the Children, became a paperback hit. Since then, her books have sold over 100 million copies in the U.S. alone, with her most recent, I’ll Walk Alone, being published just this past April. Clark has been honored with numerous awards as an author, and is an active advocate for, and participant in, literacy programs.

Her presentations on board Crystal Serenity will see her opening the book on what it takes to write her tomes, from conception to publication, with personal true tales behind the fiction, and even a Q&A session.

The Crystal Serenity sailing provides more time in romantic Venice and cosmopolitan Istanbul with overnights in both starting and ending ports. Additional calls during the twelve day Black Sea/Mediterranean voyage include Katakolon, Greece; Navplion, Greece; Constanta, Romania; Odessa and Yalta, Ukraine; and Trabzon, Turkey (maiden call). Per person, Two-for-One fares start at $7,485, with savings on verandah and penthouse staterooms as part of Crystal’s big fall fare sale. All bookings include free air transportation from 24 North American gateway cities, and $2,000 per couple “As You Wish” shipboard credit.

Crystal’s award-winning, luxurious offerings always include a diverse selection of thought-provoking, scholarly, and sophisticated enrichment activities that provide extensive onboard choices for cultured world travelers. The renowned Crystal Experience has been rated “World’s Best” in its category more than any other cruise line, hotel, or resort in history.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, or call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

For more information about Crystal Cruises and other cruises, visit the top cruise web site at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine

Royal Caribbean 3-D

In conjunction with the arrival of DreamWorks Animation’s 3-D feature film “Kung Fu Panda 2” in theaters, Royal Caribbean International is celebrating Pandamonium aboard Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas with a series of onboard red-carpet premieres.

Through August 2011, guests of the four ships can enjoy ample screenings of “Kung Fu Panda 2” in 3-D, in addition to the year-round DreamWorks Experience, which first launched aboard Allure of the Seas, and features entertainment, character meet and greets, unique events and parades, a dedicated DreamWorks Animation channel on RCTV, and kids programming rooted in the popular DreamWorks Animation movies.

In the above photo, Cruise Director Ken Rush and Po the Dragon Warrior welcome guests at the red-carpet premier of “Kung Fu Panda 2” aboard Allure of the Seas.

Visit www.royalcaribbean.com or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.

For an overview of Royal Caribbean take a look at the PROW'S EDGE CRUISE MAGAZINE CRUISE LINE PROFILE - ROYAL CARIBBEAN

Posidonia Sea Tourism

The potential for sea tourism and its significance as a key factor in the development of the economies of Greece, the Eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea region will be examined in depth during the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, scheduled to take place 21-22 June 2011 at the prestigious Onassis Cultural Centre in Athens.



The 1st Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum will bring together government officials, business leaders, entrepreneurs and representatives of the region’s sea tourism industries and create the opportunity to interact, discuss and explore ways which can help develop this important sector and maximize the sea tourism potential of the region.

The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is geared to present growth potential and investment opportunities for Greece, Eastern Med and Black Sea.

For more information about the event take a look at http://www.posidoniaseatourism.com/

Godmothers Name Orion II

Sarina Bratton, Founder and Managing Director of Orion Expedition Cruises, today joined with the ship’s crew and invited guests at a dockside ceremony in Seattle to officially name Orion II, the latest acquisition for Orion Expedition Cruises.

Resisting the current populist use of star profiles to name new ships, Sarina chose three Godmothers from Orion’s past guests to jointly name Orion II. Together they represent the most travelled females on Orion – Jill Bennette, Laurel Norris and Shirley Turtle; their status of Godmother in recognition of loyalty to Orion Expedition Cruises. Between them they have travelled on over 50 voyages on Orion and so are well placed to represent guests, past and future.

Many guests who travelled on Orion’s first voyage from Tahiti to Australia in 2005 have joined Sarina onboard Orion II for the inaugural 24 night voyage from Vancouver to Otaru, Japan departed already on 10 June 2011.

The attached image features (left to right) Laurel Norris, Jill Bennette and Shirley Turtle at the ribbon cutting ceremony, Seattle, 9 June.

For more information about Orion Expedition Cruises take a look at the Prow’s Edge Profile for Orion, or visit the official web site at www.orionexpeditions.com

SeaDream Sails from Hamburg

The stylish, 112-guest mega yacht SeaDream I has now departed from Hamburg, Germany for an 11-night voyage concluding in Bergen, Norway. This is the start of her northern-summer season in the Baltic, Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.

SeaDream I has just come out of a 20-day drydock, getting a little extra pampering and tender loving care.

The drydock work included laying new carpeting in all public areas, Suites and Staterooms. The Golf Simulator was upgraded. A new Jacuzzi was installed. New cushions for all the chairs at the outside dining area. New upholstery for all the Balinese Beds on Deck 6 and for the seating areas around the Top of the Yacht Bar. All staterooms have been freshly wallpapered and the woodwork has been sanded and re-varnished. The hull was pressure washed and repainted and the tenders have also been upgraded.

SeaDream’s President, Bob Lepisto said “maintenance at regular intervals of time is the key to providing these vessels a long and efficient life at sea”. Adding “much of the work being done is not necessarily visible, and that includes changing out air conditioning units, steel and pipe work, upgrades to galley equipment etc...”

Together with sister vessel SeaDream II, SeaDream I is rated the ‘World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line’ (source: the Berlitz Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2003-2011). Each vessel has just 56 staterooms, a crew of 95 and the two yachts are the only locations at sea to be certified members of the Thai Spa Association. Voyage-only fares are inclusive of open bar, complimentary champagne, wines with lunch and dinner, use of recreational and water sports equipment (subject to local conditions) and gratuities.

For more information visit www.seadream.com, contact 800-707-4911 or take a look at the profile for SeaDream at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine at www.prowsedge.com/cruise-lines-seadream-yacht-club.html

Byron Clayton - Cruise Travel Writer

It's all about the personal perspective - and the actual real cruise experiences as told by established and talented cruise travel writers. At Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine we showcase the excellent articles of more than 26 cruise travel writers who have traveled on cruises all over the world, from Australia to Northeast Asia.

Our latest addition is from Byron Clayton as he shares his experience with Azamara Club Cruises in Northeast Asia. Take a look at Boutique Luxury Cruising with Azamara.

Byron Clayton is a freelance travel writer who has been living and traveling extensively in Asia for the last 10 years. Since 1984, Byron has been a passionate cruiser and started the website claytonshipping.com in 2007, with a focus on ship appreciation in Asia. He regularly publishes articles on shipping in Asia, UK and US.

Other popular cruise travel writers published at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine include:

• Roger Allnutt

• Alec Alpert

• Bob Barton

• Brooke Cunningham

• Byron Clayton

• Toni Dabbs

• Doug English

• Richard Gilbert

• Winnie Graham

• Pamela Irving

• Naomi Kabak

• Barbara Kingstone

• Stu Lloyd

• Jessica Mannering-Gold

• Susan R Norton

• Petra O'Neill

• Jim Peerless

• Julie Rekai Rickerd

• Kevin Retief

• Ursula and Eldrid Retief

• Peter Sommer

• Sharon Spence Lieb

• Robert Tilley

• Christina Tree

• Ruby Turner

• Richard Varr

• Doug Yochim

Book for Cruisers

New Book from popular cruise lecturer - Sabin Robbins

Sabin Robbins, a former National Geographic writer, zoo society director, and cruise ship lecturer has written a one-of-a-kind guidebook about such ocean wonders as whales, dolphins, sharks, seabirds, pirates, and even sea monsters and sea mysteries.

Each illustrated chapter recreates a popular cruise lecture that ranks highest in interest and enjoyment based on passenger surveys.

You’ll discover- without getting wet- what it feels like to pet a whale, how dolphins sleep, and that some seabirds can actually count how many fish they catch. You’ll find out if sharks are really the most dangerous of all predators; if real pirates were as glamorous as books and movies portray; and whether the Bermuda Triangle is a natural or supernatural force that swallows ships and sailors.

Robbins recounts remarkable wildlife stories. How an angry 80-foot sperm whale rammed and sank a 238-ton whaling ship. And in contrast, how four divers risked their lives to save a drowning 50-foot whale by cutting off a dozen entangling crab traps and yards of rope. When the whale was finally free, she swam to each diver and nuzzled him as if to thank them before swimming away. Or how a dolphin safely led ships thru a shallow, dangerous channel for 24 years.

Then there was Andrea Lyons who so loved her pet shark, Archie, that she married him. Explained Andrea, “As far as I’m concerned, he’s one helluva catch.”

As Robbins writes, “We live on a planet that is 70% covered with water- home to most of our wildlife that is increasingly threatened. So hopefully this book will increase cruisers’ appreciation of ocean wonders. Because in the end, we will conserve only what we love. We will love only what we understand. And we will understand only what we learn and experience.”

Read the whole first chapter about The Secret Life of Whales at Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine or purchase the book at Amazon.com

Royal Caribbean in Victoria Dry Dock

Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas enters the Victoria Shipyards in Victoria, British Colombia, Canada, to start her 22-day dry dock.

The ship will receive a variety of enhancements including a Samba Grill, Giovanni’s Table, Park Café, Boardwalk Dog House, Izumi, as well as 15 new staterooms.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 22 ships currently in service.

The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. For additional information or to make reservations, call your travel agent, visitwww.royalcaribbean.com or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN. Travel professionals should go to www.cruisingpower.com or call (800) 327-2056.

Or visit Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine and explore the wealth of information on everything from Safety at Sea to actual cruise experiences from world class travel writers.

Cunard Line Insights Program

Politicians, entertainers, best-selling authors, a CNN correspondent turned novelist, and a revered astronaut are among the eclectic variety of speakers in the award-winning Cunard guest enrichment program.



Guests are able to learn more about politics, entertainment, literature, science and history through renowned speakers from former vice president and editor-in-chief of Daily Variety Peter Bart, legendary British crime novelists P.D. James and Baroness Ruth Rendell CBE, to The Byrds musician Roger McGuinn and debut novelist Kitty Pilgrim, a former CNN correspondent turned novelist who features Cunard’s Queen Victoria in her debut thriller.

“This year’s speaker line-up certainly will appeal to a broad range of interests, giving guests a chance to update on favorite subjects as well as learn about something new,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. “”

Cunard Line, operator of the luxury ocean liners Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, has long been synonymous with the quest for new discoveries and the epitome of British refinement since the company's first paddle-wheeled steamer, Britannia, crossed the Atlantic in 1840. 

Today, Cunard offers the only regularly scheduled Transatlantic liner service and continues the legacy of world cruising which it began in 1922.

For full details of the Cunard Line Insights Program visit the Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine news item at 

http://www.prowsedge.com/cruise-news-cunard-line-guest-speakers-0515.html

For more information about Cunard Line Insights Program, please visit http://www.cunard.com/

For a brief over view of Cunard Line take a look at the Prow’s Edge Cruise Line Magazine profile of Cunard Line


SeaDream Arrives in London

The afternoon of Saturday May 7, 2011 saw the stylish, 112-guest mega yacht SeaDream I arrive in London for the very first time, mooring alongside the HMS Belfast at Tower Bridge.

For two days – Sunday, May 8 and Monday, May 9 - SeaDream Yacht Club showcased SeaDream I to over 400 UK travel industry professionals and the media, with a series of exclusive invitational events. 



Says SeaDream’s President, Bob Lepisto: “Bringing SeaDream I to the UK was a long-held dream of both mine and the Owner/Chairman, Atle Brynestad… and to bring her to the pool of London over such a sunny weekend has been an absolute delight. Her arrival and departure were also greeted with much enthusiasm by crowds of well-wishers and tourists who crammed the towpaths and piazzas around the Tower of London and St Katherine’s Dock, making our visit all the more special.”

Together with sister vessel SeaDream II, SeaDream I is rated the ‘World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line’ (source: the Berlitz Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2003-2011). Each vessel has just 56 staterooms, a crew of 95 and the two yachts are the only locations at sea to be certified members of the Thai Spa Association; and to have outside open-seating a la carte restaurants able to accommodate every guest, not just a privileged few.

Voyage-only fares are inclusive of open bar, complimentary champagne, wines with lunch and dinner, use of recreational and water sports equipment (subject to local conditions) and gratuities. For more information, contact 800-707-4911 or info@SeaDream.com or click here for an overview of SeaDream Yacht Club Cruises from Prow’s Edge Cruise Magazine.

Entertainment with Paul Gauguin

Paul Gauguin Cruises (www.pgcruises.com), operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin, announced an expanded line-up of renowned artists, lecturers, and entertainers for its 2011-2012 sailings. The impressive roster of onboard presenters as well as exclusive excursions and exhibits provides guests of The Gauguin educational experiences to enhance their appreciation for the natural and cultural history of French Polynesia.

As part of the authentic Polynesian experience aboard The Gauguin, guests are invited to sample the local cuisine and watch electrifying Polynesian performances, or choose to indulge in traditional Tahitian spa treatments and experience the beauty of French Polynesia through an array of optional shore excursions. To further enrich the onboard experience, Paul Gauguin Cruises offers lectures by special guests in art, history, ecology, and Polynesian culture. Lecture topics include the history of the South Pacific, the conservation of coral reefs and marine creatures, astronomy, island formation, black pearl farming, and much more, and, in addition, respected Polynesian artists offer regular exhibits of paintings and photography. Celebrated guests include:

· Bobbie Verdegaal: The Gauguin’s onboard naturalist, Verdegaal is a trained marine biologist and environmental educator with extensive experience in the waters of French Polynesia. With her wealth of knowledge and engaging manner, she is well equipped to teach and discuss a wide range of topics associated with the marine environment of the beautiful South Pacific.
· Mark Eddowes: Eddowes is an acknowledged authority and researcher in the field of Polynesian anthropology. Almost every voyage offers entertaining and enlightening lectures by this renowned archaeologist and scholar—and gifted raconteur.
· Cécile Gaspar: President of Te Mana O Te Moana, a nonprofit organization dedicated to conservation, education, and research, Gaspar will enlighten guests on the organization’s efforts to rehabilitate sick and injured sea turtles and return them to the deep.
· Gotz Donaghy Philippe: Appearing on the July 9, 2011 sailing, painter and artist Gotz Donaghy Philippe uses his in-depth knowledge of Polynesian life to pen a humorous comic strip. Donaghy is also an expert on the Polynesian art of tattooing, having written several books on the subject. Guests will gain a unique perspective of French Polynesia through his artwork.
· Jean-Pierre Vigato: Parisian Celebrity Chef Jean-Pierre Vigato - owner and Chef Propriétaire of the two-star Michelin-rated Restaurant Apicius in Paris - will join guests aboard the July 30, 2011, culinary sailing, where he will personally prepare gourmet dishes and offer demonstrations of his culinary techniques.
· Devlin, The Matador of Magic: A professional magician for more than 30 years, Devlin brings a Latin flair to his style of magic, which has earned him the sobriquet "Matador of Magic!" The recipient of the Society of American Magicians’ highest honor, Magician of the Year, he has appeared (and disappeared!) on stages around the world—including select sailings aboard The Gauguin.

For more information about these and other special guests, please visit http://www.pgcruises.com/onboard/special-guests.aspx.

For a brief over view of Paul Gauguin Cruises take a look at the PROW'S EDGE CRUISE LINE PROFILE OF PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES

All About Tahiti

Just in time for summer vacation planning, Paul Gauguin Cruises launches a new online experience, taking you on a journey through the exotic paradise of Tahiti. MeetMeInTahiti.com is a unique interactive site that asks you how you would spend five minutes exploring Tahiti.

MeetMeinTahiti.com allows you to “get away” to Tahiti with your Facebook friends. Check in to Tahiti on Facebook places and select three lucky friends to come along with you on a “Choose Your Own Adventure” through Tahiti’s best activities.

Enjoy videos of just some of the exciting excursions Tahiti has to offer, from swimming with stingrays in the morning, heading on a jeep safari in the afternoon and sipping cocktails with your favorite friends after the sun goes down. You can even take home (via email, Twitter or Facebook) postcards of you and your friends to share.

Paul Gauguin was inspired by them, Rogers & Hammerstein immortalized them in song, and James Mitchener wrote, “Anyone who has ever been there wants to go back.” I hope you’ll take five minutes to Meet Me in Tahiti, where luxury and chic adventures abound.

For an overview of Paul Gauguin Cruises, take a look at the PROW'S EDGE CRUISE MAGAZINE CRUISE LINE PROFILE FOR PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES

New Commodore of the Cunard Line fleet

Captain Christopher Rynd has been appointed Commodore of the Cunard Line fleet – Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria – the youngest fleet in the industry and The Most Famous Ocean Liners in the World. Captain Rynd assumes the title held by Commodore Bernard Warner who retired from the company on 19 April 2011.

Captain Rynd joined Cunard in 2005 when he took command of Queen Elizabeth 2. While on QE2, he came to appreciate Cunard’s distinctive product and traditions. Since then, he has commanded both Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria. He took Queen Mary 2 on her Maiden World Voyage and attended the Queen Victoria during her construction and sea trials and later proudly served as her master.

“I am delighted with the appointment of Captain Rynd as Commodore of Cunard Line and am sure that many of our regular guests will be as pleased as I and will join me in congratulating him on this notable achievement,” Shanks said.

Captain Rynd was born in New Zealand and grew up in Singapore, Sri Lanka, and in the islands of Fiji and Samoa of the tropical South Pacific. He began his sea career in 1970 at the age of 17 in New Zealand. The influence of his father and upbringing helped in this choice.

After completing his cadetship, Captain Rynd joined his first passenger liner, P&O’s Oronsay. His early sea days were in P&O vessels on routes between Australia and the UK, which also included cruising. Since then, most of his career has been in passenger cruise ships on worldwide itineraries. Additionally, he expanded his experience with eight years as a reserve officer in the British Royal Navy. He gained his qualification as Master in London in 1979. During his time with P&O and Princess Cruises, he commanded Royal Princess, Regal Princess, the first and second Pacific Princess, Pacific Sky and Sapphire Princess.

In 2008, Captain Rynd was elected a Fellow of the Nautical Institute, the international professional body for maritime professionals, and he took time out in 2009 / 2010 to work as a coach under the auspices of the Company’s training facility, ‘CSmart,’ in the Netherlands. This was an opportunity to travel in ships across the corporate fleets and be involved in the introduction of new procedures that enhance the safe operations in navigating ships.

Captain Rynd and his Australian wife Julie have three children who are now young adults, which allows Julie to accompany her husband at sea most of the time. When not at sea, they spend time in both Britain and Australia but visit New Zealand each year to hike and fish trout.

For more information about Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and 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.

Click here for or an overview of Cunard Line

Holland America Line announced today that it has selected Maria Henderson’s essay as winner of the contest held to commemorate the line’s 40th anniversary of its transition from offering scheduled trans-Atlantic crossings to becoming entirely dedicated to pleasure cruising. A panel of judges chose the winning essay from more than 400 entries.

For her literary winning story, Henderson will receive a cruise for two on ms Rotterdam’s July 12, 2011, celebratory trans-Atlantic voyage from New York to Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

The “Your Trans-Atlantic Story” contest focused on classic Holland America Line crossing experiences during the line’s nearly 140-year history, whether told firsthand or through a family member or friend.

Henderson’s essay told the story of her family’s crossing from Rotterdam to New York City in 1956 aboard ss Groote Beer, a Holland America Line ship at the time. She, her four sisters and her parents made the journey to America to fulfill her father’s desire to become a U.S. citizen after being liberated from Buchenwald concentration camp in 1945. Throughout the years Henderson and her family continued to take Holland America Line cruises, including one in December 2010 where she met two American men who served in Gen. George S. Patton’s army that liberated her father in 1945. Making the tale even more incredible was that she also met a fellow guest who, she discovered after a chance encounter in the dining room, was on the same trans-Atlantic crossing aboard ss Groote Beer in 1956.

Upon hearing that her essay had won, Henderson said the news was yet another emotional twist of fate in her relationship with Holland America Line.

"It was on April 13, exactly 55 years ago, that my family and I sailed past the Statue of Liberty and into our American life,” she recalled. “I am excited to cruise back, hopefully with my siblings, to greet our cousins in Holland that as children waved good-bye to us from the banks of Rotterdam's River Maas those many years ago. I feel I have come full circle, this is a dream come true!" added Henderson.

For more information and cruise fares, contact a professional travel seller, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

For a brief overview of Holland America Line visit PROW'S EDGE CRUISE LINES - HOLLAND AMERICA LINE