The highest calibre theatrical productions and the only private boxes at sea make Cunard’s newest ocean liner a natural choice for theatre aficionados As Queen Victoria prepares to enter service in December 2007, a team of 16 classically trained singers and dancers is already rehearsing four major theatrical productions that will form the core of the ocean liner’s inaugural entertainment schedule. From concept to curtain, Cunard will have spent nearly two years crafting sophisticated shows that engage guests with a striking balance of opulence and innovation. “What Cunard...

Oceania Cruises announced that on August 1st a new record for reservations was set as the line’s 2008–2009 Winter Collection of sailings went on sale. Oceania Cruises opened its reservation lines at 8 am on August 1st and took more than 400 new reservations in the first hours. At the close of business the line had bested it previous reservations record by almost 30% and some departures were 50% sold. “With limited availability for our 2008 winter sailings, Travel Agents and Oceania Club members have been eager to learn details of the 2009 winter sailings. Our Travel Partn...

Special Wine Country Sailing Features Opportunity to Explore Local Vineyards and Vintages One of the seasonal cruise opportunities on Princess' worldwide calendar each year is the chance to experience the Princess product with a short West Coast sailing. Ranging from overnight to as long as a week, these "coastal" sailings offer a great way for travelers to sample Princess' amenity-filled vessels and renowned service while exploring the Pacific coastline of North America. For the 2008-09 season, passengers can choose from one-, two-, three- and four-night escapes in the spring an...

The world got its first glimpse of Norwegian Cruise Line's (NCL) newest "It" Girl-Norwegian Gem-as she left drydock at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany on Sunday, August 12. Prior to leaving drydock, the 93,500-ton ship underwent a series of tests and engine trials, all of which went smoothly. She will be berthed at the outfitting pier in Papenburg while outstanding work is completed. The ship is scheduled to make the River Ems passage to Eemshaven/Netherlands for sea trials in mid-September. "The introduction of Norwegian Gem not only marks the completion of our Jewel-clas...

Vacationers usually exploring Alaska at bear-level height with Royal Caribbean International or Celebrity Cruises, now can soar over the majestic wilderness from the perspective of an eagle on North America's longest and highest zip-line - the ZipRider. Traveling a distance of 5,330 feet from a mountaintop 1,330 feet in elevation to the beach below, guests can experience the exhilarating shore excursion at Icy Strait Point during their Alaskan cruise or cruisetour adventure. "We are thrilled to provide this extraordinary experience to our guests looking for a unique and active vacat...

Carnival Cruise Lines is unveiling specific design details for its stunning new resort-style pool areas and spectacular “Carnival WaterWorks” aqua parks on its eight Fantasy-class ships, part of the line’s $250 million “Evolutions of Fun” enhancement program. “A quintessential part of the Carnival cruise experience centers around the ships’ pools and outdoor decks,” said Vicki Freed, Carnival’s senior vice president of sales and marketing. “With the ‘Evolutions of Fun’ program, we have focused very heavily on making the...