800-753-7057
CruisePlan.net
Michael Given, MCC (CLIA)
Mary DeAngelis, ACC (CLIA)

blog

In the Grand Cunard Tradition, Entertainment Aboard Queen Victoria will Strike a Visual High Note

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...Read More...
Posted on August 30,2007 in

Oceania Cruises Reports Record Demand For New Itineraries

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...Read More...
Posted on August 30,2007 in

Princess Announces Series of West Coast Sampler Sailings in 2008-09

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...Read More...
Posted on August 30,2007 in

Norwegian Gem Leaves Drydock at Meyer Werft

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...Read More...
Posted on August 30,2007 in

Royal Caribbean And Celebrity Cruises Vacationers Gain Uncommon Birds-Eye View Of Alaskan Wilderness

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...Read More...
Posted on August 30,2007 in ,

Carnival Unveils Design Details for Resort-Style Pool Areas and Carnival WaterWorks

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...Read More...
Posted on August 22,2007 in

Holland America Line Features Latest Ship and New Itineraries for 2008 — 2009 Caribbean Cruises

In the next two years, Holland America Line plans its most diverse offering of Caribbean cruise options with new ports, back-to-back itineraries, and the introduction of its newest ship, ms Eurodam, in late 2008. Holland America Line has increased its presence in the region due primarily to the addition of the new 2,104-passenger Eurodam and has planned more 10-day and longer journeys along with some gateway changes to introduce in-depth itineraries. Beginning in 2008, Holland America Line also will embark on a full season of a southern Caribbean itinerary that proved to be a popular ch...Read More...
Posted on July 31,2007 in

NCL America to Feature the Hottest Off-Broadway Show of All Time - Tony n' Tina's Wedding

NCL America announced that off-Broadway's legendary show phenomena, Tony n' Tina's Wedding, will be featured on board its ships Pride of America, Pride of Aloha and Pride of Hawai`i. The 25-member cast of Tony n' Tina's Wedding satirizes a traditional Italian wedding with passengers as "invited guests" to the nuptials of the Vitale and Nunzio families. The wedding and reception is held in an on-board lounge, which is transformed into Vinnie's Coliseum restaurant, a classic Italian wedding hall. "Along with great restaurants, amenities, itineraries, shore excursions and ac...Read More...
Posted on July 31,2007 in

New Smoking Policy Onboard Royal Caribbean Ships

In time to help guests set their New Year's resolutions for a healthier lifestyle, Royal Caribbean International announces a new smoking policy onboard its ships, effective January 2008. To bolster the cruise line's new Vitality wellness program, recently debuted on Liberty of the Seas - the newest vessel to share the title of the world's largest cruise ship with sister-ship, Freedom of the Seas - Royal Caribbean is increasing smoke-free zones by designating all staterooms and one lounge on each ship in its fleet as non-smoking areas. The new policy will go into effect aboard 18 of the l...Read More...
Posted on July 31,2007 in

Princess Introduces New Itineraries for Caribbean Escapes in 2008-09

The colorful ports of the Caribbean highlight Princess' 2008-09 cruise season as the line's amenity-filled ships offer up fresh itineraries for escapes to these tropical waters, and a new vessel, Ruby Princess, makes her debut. In total, seven Princess ships will sail on 11 itineraries to all corners of the Caribbean, featuring the youngest fleet of any major cruise line in the region. This array of modern vessels, ranging from 710 to 3,100 passengers, offers the highest percentage of balcony staterooms in the Caribbean - perfect for enjoying the idyllic island scenery and crystal blue wat...Read More...
Posted on July 31,2007 in

Celebrity Cruises Brings High Art to the High Seas

Celebrity Cruises' guests now can enjoy museum-quality audio equipment and commentary while viewing the fleet's permanent onboard art collection. Seven of the line's ships now offer complimentary use of handheld audio devices featuring self-guided art tours that provide education and insight into the works. "We're thrilled to be the only cruise line to offer equipment of such high quality to guests interested in art," Celebrity Vice President of Entertainment Lisa Lutoff-Perlo said. "Whether someone is new to the world of art or an art historian, our self-guided art tour w...Read More...
Posted on July 31,2007 in

Holland America Sails to the New Seven Wonders

Holland America Line, the world's leading premium cruise line, sails to all seven continents, and also offers passage to the new seven wonders of the world on its more than 500 worldwide cruise itineraries. The line also visits the cruise port gateway to honorary wonder of the world -- the Pyramids of Giza -- the only remaining wonder of the ancient world. "Cruising opens up new horizons to travelers," said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest services. "As the world's leading premium cruise line, we explore destinations off the beaten p...Read More...
Posted on July 24,2007 in ,

Carnival Plans South American Voyages

Carnival Cruise Lines said it will operate its first voyages to South America in January 2009. The Miami-based cruise line said it plans 14- to 18-day departures with extended visits to destinations in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador, Chile and Peru. The cruises are to be aboard the new 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor. The 3,006-passenger ship is to operate three special South America departures: * a 17-day, six-port cruise from Fort Lauderdale, to Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jan. 31-Feb. 17. The voyage is to include visits to Dominica and Barbados, as well as day-long calls at the ...Read More...
Posted on July 24,2007 in

Seabourn's Next Yacht Will Be an Odyssey

Seabourn Cruise Line has announced the name that will be given to its new, ultra luxury cruising vessel, presently under construction in Italy. The all-suite, 450-guest ship will be christened Seabourn Odyssey when she debuts in Venice in mid-2009. "There were literally hundreds of names that we considered," said Seabourn president Pamela C. Conover, "and we pursued dozens of different directions. But in the end, we wanted her name to reflect her primary purpose, which is to wander the globe, carrying our guests to the world's most exciting and fascinating destinations, in...Read More...
Posted on July 24,2007 in

Azamara Cruises Joins CLIA

Azamara Cruises has joined the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), making it the association`s 24th cruise line member. The new, "deluxe" cruise brand was announced by Celebrity Cruises in May with the launch of Azamara`s first vessel. Azamara Cruises is designed to offer exotic, destination-driven travel experiences on two 710-guest vessels. Azamara Journey set sail May 5, and sister ship, Azamara Quest, will enter service in October. The cruises present a more intimate onboard experience, while allowing access to the less-traveled ports of call experienced travele...Read More...
Posted on July 24,2007 in ,

Holland America Introduces "As You Wish Dining"

Holland America Line launches “As You Wish” dining, an innovative program that allows guests to choose from the best of both worlds – either traditional pre-set seating and dining times, or a completely flexible dining schedule. One level of the two-tiered restaurant will offer a flexible/open dining service from 5:15 to 9 p.m. daily, and the other will host two seatings, an early and main seating. “Providing more options for our guests has been a hallmark of our Signature of Excellence initiative,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, mar...Read More...
Posted on July 24,2007 in

POPULAR ‘RUSTY WALLACE CRUISE’ SERIES CONTINUES IN 2007

Carnival Cruise Lines’ and NASCAR racing legend Rusty Wallace have teamed up again for another “Rusty Wallace Cruise” -- this time with a seven-day voyage aboard the 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph in December 2007. The weeklong cruise – the seventh installment of the popular “Rusty Wallace Cruise” series -- will operate round-trip from Miami, Dec. 1-8, 2007. Featured ports include Half Moon Cay, St. Thomas, San Juan and Grand Turk. Carnival’s “Rusty Wallace Cruises” began in 2001 and, over the years, more than 7,000 racing fans h...Read More...
Posted on June 30,2007 in

DEILMANN CRUISES ANNOUNCES NO SMOKING INSIDE EUROPEAN RIVER SHIPS FOR 2008!

Peter Deilmann Cruises is expanding the no-smoking restrictions on its European river fleet to include all areas inside the vessels beginning in 2008. The policy will become effective at the start of the river cruise season in March 2008. Deilmann, which operates a fleet of nine river vessels, first extended the smoke-free areas on its ships in 2005 to include all cabins and corridors along with its no-smoking policy in the restaurants. Now smoking will only be permitted on the open decks. "We are happy to have our river ships smoke-free now that the laws in Europe are evolving to b...Read More...
Posted on June 29,2007 in

Princess Announces 2008-09 Season for Asia and Australia and New Zealand Cruises

From the jeweled palaces of Bangkok and the grandeur of China's Great Wall to the unique wildlife of Tasmania and the towering fjords of New Zealand, each year Princess passengers delight in the many unique destinations offered on cruises to Asia and Australia/New Zealand. The 2008-09 season will be no exception as the line will once again return to these exotic destinations with a full program of sailings, aboard the amenity-filled Diamond Princess. In addition, Sun Princess and Dawn Princess will be based in Australia for a series of unique voyages. In total, Princess will now offer mo...Read More...
Posted on June 29,2007 in

Summer Solstice Sheds New Light On Celebrity Solstice

Celebrity Cruises is beaming about the approach of summer solstice. The term for the longest day and shortest night of the year, summer solstice traditionally marks the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, but at Celebrity Cruises, it also marks the opening of bookings for Celebrity SolsticeSM, the top-rated premium cruise line's first new ship since 2002. Celebrity Solstice will offer the extraordinary service and dining experience the brand is known for providing, along with a variety of compelling new features that will be revealed over time. One of those features is the...Read More...
Posted on June 23,2007 in

Princess to Double World Cruise Offerings in 2009

Due to the enthusiastic response for Princess' return to world cruising, the line will offer two global itineraries in 2009, giving twice as many passengers the opportunity to enjoy this unparalleled travel experience, as the ships take them to more than 40 destinations on six continents. For the first time, Princess will offer world cruising on two sister ships, with both voyages commencing at nearly the same time. The 670-passenger Tahitian Princess and 710-passenger Royal Princess will offer similar 107-day itineraries that set sail from Ft. Lauderdale in January 2009. The Tahitian Pr...Read More...
Posted on June 21,2007 in

Holland America Starts Cooking With Kids

Holland America Line has launched a kids and teen Culinary Arts Center activity program to bring the joys of cooking to the younger set. Taking advantage of the fleet-wide million dollar show kitchens, the premium line now offers classes that teach kids and teens how to make dishes from breakfast to dinner. “Learning about the culinary arts and cooking isn’t just for adults,” said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “We’ve developed some fun recipes and classes so that kids, tweens and teens can discover more ab...Read More...
Posted on June 19,2007 in

QE2 to Leave Cunard Fleet in November 2008

Queen Elizabeth 2, the most famous ship in the world, will be leaving the Cunard fleet in autumn 2008. QE2 has sailed the world's seas for almost forty years, and has travelled over 5½ million miles in the process; that is further than any other ship in history. She is the longest-serving ship in Cunard's 168-year history, and she has outlasted all other transatlantic liners. However, she will not disappear. She has been purchased by Istithmar, the investment arm of Dubai World and a wholly owned company of the Government of Dubai. She will be delivered to Dubai in November 2008, ...Read More...
Posted on June 18,2007 in

Largest Fun Ship Ever Constructed Will Operate Mexican Riviera Sailings From Long Beach

Carnival Cruise Lines' 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor - the largest "Fun Ship" ever constructed - will launch year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises from Long Beach, Calif., beginning in March 2009, following its inaugural schedule of European and Caribbean voyages. The Carnival Splendor will further bolster the line's dominant position as cruise industry leader in Southern California, which is currently home to four Carnival ships. With the arrival of Carnival Splendor, the line expects to carry approximately 650,000 guests annually on these highly popular West Coast...Read More...
Posted on June 15,2007 in

Get Married on an Alaskan Glacier, the Top of a Volcano, or Mid-Air in a Hot-Air Balloon

Royal Caribbean's Explorer Weddings Proves Love's Expression Knows No Bounds. Cruise Industry-First Wedding Adventure Program Debuts with New Liberty of the Seas Reflecting the cruise line's dedication to provide guests with exciting and innovative experiences, Royal Caribbean International is unveiling Explorer Weddings, a first-of-its-kind program that combines a cruise with an exotic destination or themed wedding. Couples saying "I do" for the first time or repeating their vows will share in a customized wedding experience onboard or shoreside. Explorer Weddings add an extra...Read More...
Posted on June 04,2007 in

CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR PHYSICIANS, NURSES, DENTISTS AND ATTORNEYS

Michael Given of Cruise Planners today announced a partnership with International Conferences to offer physicians, dentists, nurses, and attorneys an opportunity to participate in an accredited continuing education program in conjunction with cruises on Royal Caribbean International and Crystal Cruises. Through its new affiliation with International Conferences, Michael Given is able to book clients on 21 exciting cruise itineraries worldwide, where medical and legal professionals can earn between 18 and 24 continuing education credits (CME category 1, AMA/PRA, CLE, and CEU). “We&r...Read More...
Posted on May 31,2007 in

MSC SERENATA IS RENAMED MSC SPLENDIDA

MSC Cruises has changed the name of its second post-Panamax ship to MSC Splendida to reflect the ship’s beauty and elegance. The name had been changed from MSC Serenata in response to the enthusiastic reaction of Raphaela Aponte, wife of cruise line owner Gianluigi Aponte, to the designs prepared by architect De Jorio. Mrs. Aponte is responsible for all the ship’s interior design details. “This unique ship has many wonderful attributes, including the attention to detail, the choice of colors and perfect harmony of the spaces,” declared Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO f...Read More...
Posted on May 31,2007 in

Ask a Cruise Expert: Any Cruises From Texas?

We launched our "Ask A Cruse Expert" tool a few weeks ago and already have had a great response. If you use this great new feature and leave your email, then one of our certified cruise experts will email personally with their response and professional advice. We will also be taking many of the anonymous questions and posting them here on our web log and this is the very first installment. Here is the first "Ask a Cruise Expert" question: "Does NCL have a ship that sails out of Galveston or Port of Houston? If they don't can you tell me which Cruise lines sa...Read More...
Posted on May 31,2007 in

CARNIVAL LAUNCHES CONTEST TO NAME SPA ABOARD CARNIVAL SPLENDOR

Carnival Cruise Lines is holding a contest to name the new Carnival Splendor’s luxurious 21,000-square-foot health spa, the largest and most elaborate in the “Fun Ship” fleet, which will bring an entirely new dimension to the seagoing spa experience. Offering a host of innovations, the expansive facility will take personal pampering to a new level with such features as Carnival’s first spa staterooms and suites, a thalassotherapy pool, thermal suite, and a menu of Middle Eastern and Asian therapies administered in spacious, modern treatment rooms. The grand prize ...Read More...
Posted on May 30,2007 in

Royal Caribbean International Names First Female Captain Of A Major Cruise Ship

Royal Caribbean International has named Swedish mariner, Karin Stahre-Janson, captain of Monarch of the Seas, making her the first female captain in the line's 21-ship fleet and the first woman in the industry to command a major cruise ship. As the Captain of Monarch of the Seas, Captain Stahre-Janson is responsible for the safe navigation of a ship that is 880 feet long, 106 feet wide, has 14 guest decks and routinely carries 2,400 guests and 850 crew members. Captain Stahre-Janson recently completed her first tour of duty as captain of the Los Angeles-based ship, which sails three- ...Read More...
Posted on May 17,2007 in

Carnival Rolls Out E-Doc Electronic Cruise Document System

Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest cruise operator, has rolled out a new electronic cruise document system, providing added convenience and efficiency for the line’s guests. Located within the line’s comprehensive Web site, the new "paperless" system provides guests with the same travel documentation and information typically available with traditional cruise documents, all in a secure, easy-to-navigate Internet portal accessible on a "24/7" basis. Further, Carnival’s electronic document system is in "real time," ensuring that...Read More...
Posted on May 17,2007 in

Cruise Planners Agent Earns Prestigious Top Rank in Princess Cruises Academy

Coral Springs, FL (March 15, 2006) – A Cruise Planners agent has achieved prestigious Commodore status in Princess Cruises’ Academy training program, certifying himself as an expert cruise professional. As a Commodore, Michael Given of Cruise Planners joins an exclusive group of travel agents who are now recognized by Princess at the Academy's highest level for their unique qualifications and knowledge as a cruise planning professional. Michael Given earned this distinction after completing the minimum 25 courses necessary to graduate from the program. “We at Princess...Read More...
Posted on May 15,2007 in ,

Celebrity Cruises Launches New Deluxe Cruise Line: Azamara Cruises

Celebrity Cruises launched the new 710-passenger Journey on May 4th and also surprised the industry by also introducing an entirely new cruise brand, Azamara Cruises, which will be positioned in the deluxe brand market. The new line will offer destination driven and exotic travel experiences, including the exotic Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and even worldwide itineraries. The Asia and world cruises are not announced yet, but the line expects to visit more than 200 ports in over 70 different counties. The Azamara fleet will consist of the Azamara Journey, which set sail on May 6th on her ...Read More...
Posted on May 09,2007 in

Carnival To Host First-Ever Bloggers Cruise

This special sailing will feature exclusive events, special giveaways, and meet and greet opportunities on the seven-day Caribbean voyage aboardCarnival Freedom. Based on the incredible success of the Internet blog of Carnivals Senior Cruise Director John Heald - whose humorous and insightful postings have attracted nearly 200,000 visitors since the site was launched last month - Heald will host his first-ever Bloggers Cruiseaboard the Carnival Freedom in January 2008. The seven-day western Caribbean cruise will operate round-trip from Miami January 19-26, 2008, and will visit three o...Read More...
Posted on May 08,2007 in

Holland America Revises Dress Code For Dining Room

Holland America Line has simplified its dress code for evenings from three options to only two, smart casual and formal, beginning with the May 2 Rotterdam Europe cruise from Piraeus, Greece. “We made the dress code change as a result of our guest surveys,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales, and guest programs. “Our new policy will preserve our popular formal nights yet allow guests to simplify packing by not having to worry about bringing an extra suit and dress or two for what we used to call informal.” For smart casual ...Read More...
Posted on May 07,2007 in

GRAND PRIX RACE CAR DRIVING SIMULATOR INSTALLED ON NEW COSTA SERENA

Guests seeking more fast-paced thrills than the turquoise tranquility of the Mediterranean Sea may test their “need for speed” aboard the Costa Serena’s Grand Prix race car driving simulator – the most accurate representation of Formula One driving available. The driving simulator was installed today on the ship, which will be officially inaugurated in Marseille on May 19 and sail from Venice to Greece, Turkey and Croatia in her first season. Installed on Deck 12 of the ship, nearly 100 feet above the sea, the simulator was produced from an original Grand Prix rac...Read More...
Posted on April 30,2007 in

Celebrity - Itinerary Updates

Alaska Itinerary Updates: Millennium will replace Summit in 2008, sailing alternating Northbound and Southbound Alaska open-jaw voyages from May through September, 2008 between Vancouver, BC and Seward, Alaska. Millennium will open the Alaska season with a 14-night Ultimate Alaska voyage round-trip from San Francisco, CA on May 5, 2008. Millennium will then sail a 13-night West Coast and Alaska voyage from San Francisco, CA to Vancouver, BC on May 19, 2008. Millennium is also slated for one 3-night British Columbia voyage round-trip from Vancouver, BC o September 19, 2008 and will comple...Read More...
Posted on April 30,2007 in

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD. EXERCISES OPTION TO BUILD SECOND GENESIS SHIP

Royal Caribbean exercised its option to build a second ship in its “Genesis Project." Destined to become the 24th ship in the Royal Caribbean International fleet, the 5,400-guest, 220,000-gross-registered-ton ship would be built at Aker Yards in Finland, with delivery projected for August, 2010. Like the prototype ship due out in Fall, 2009, the second Project Genesis ship will be a trailblazer in cruise-ship and vacation innovation. New icons and amenities will continue to challenge and expand guests’ expectations of cruising, and the latest technology and design will c...Read More...
Posted on April 30,2007 in

OCEANIA CRUISES ENTERS INTO NEWBUILD AGREEMENT WITH FINCANTIERI

Oceania Cruises announced that it has entered into a memorandum of agreement with Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard that calls for the construction of two 1,260-guest, 65,000-ton ships to be delivered in the fall of 2010 and summer of 2011. The agreement includes an option for a third vessel to be delivered in 2012. The contract price for each vessel is $500 million dollars. “This new class of elegant, mid-size ships will define upper-premium cruising for years to come and demonstrates our commitment to providing our guests and travel agent partners with an extraordinary onboard ...Read More...
Posted on April 30,2007 in

Disney To Build Bigger Ships

Walt Disney Company will build two new ships for Disney Cruise Line with scheduled launch in 2011 and 2012. Details were scant but the ships will be 122,000 tons each and two decks taller than the 83,000-ton Magic and Wonder. Both will have 1250 staterooms. Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts said, "Disney Cruise Line continually sets sail with the highest load factors in the industry of nearly 150%." The company statement noted strong demand for new itineraries: "Trips to the Mediterranean and to the West Coast have recently set booking records within t...Read More...
Posted on April 30,2007 in

CARNIVAL NAMES NEW 130,000-TON SUPERLINERS ‘CARNIVAL DREAM’ AND ‘CARNIVAL MAGIC’

“Carnival Dream” and “Carnival Magic” are the names Carnival Cruise Lines has chosen for its two 130,000-ton SuperLiners scheduled to enter service in October 2009 and June 2011, respectively. Representing a new class of vessel for the line, the 3,652-passenger “Fun Ships” will be the largest in Carnival Cruise Lines’ fleet and offer a host of innovative on-board amenities and facilities. “Carnival has earned a reputation as a cruise industry innovator by continually upgrading its product and introducing new and exciting features. Carnival ...Read More...
Posted on April 30,2007 in

Celebrity Eclipse to debut in 2010 as part of line's Solstice series

Celebrity Cruises named the third ship in its Solstice-class series the Celebrity Eclipse, which will bring Celebrity's fleet total to 13 when it joins the fleet. The Celebrity Eclipse is on schedule to make its maiden voyage in 2010, following two sister ships, the Celebrity Solstice, which debuts in 2008, and the Celebrity Equinox, which is due to sail in 2009. All three Solstice-class ships are being constructed by German shipbuilder Meyer Werft. The Solstice-class ships are larger than their predecessors, each weighing in at 118,000 tons with the capacity to carry 2,850 passengers...Read More...
Posted on April 30,2007 in

Fabulous New Grand Cabana at Half Moon Cay

Holland America Line recently opened the new over water Grand Cabana at Half Moon Cay. This Grand Cabana offers a great opportunity for groups and large families to lounge in privacy. The cabana includes 480 square foot sun deck, an eight person hot tub, a 1,140 square foot covered deck, separate male and female changing and rest rooms, an indoor and an outdoor fresh water heated shower, teak dining table and chairs for six, BBQ area, a full wet bar complete with teak lounges, double lounges, and bar stools to accommodate 12 guests, refrigerator, iPod music system, massage table, 100-foot ...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in ,

INAUGURAL SEASON AT NEW GRAND TURK CRUISE CENTER EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS

Grand Turk, the newest Caribbean cruise destination, finished its inaugural season with 136 cruise ship calls and 295,000 passengers, far exceeding expectations for the number of visitors for its first year of operation (the port officially opened in Feb. 2006). December was a record month with more than 46,000 passengers arriving on 28 cruise ship calls. Twenty of the calls were made by Carnival Corporation & plc brands, including Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America, and Costa Cruises; the remaining eight calls were by Silversea, Crystal, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Fred Olsen, Hap...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Norwegian Cruise Line - Ship Deployment News

Norwegian Cruise Line made several changes to its North American fleet rotation. The line will send the Norwegian Sun from New Orleans to Miami in October, move the Norwegian Spirit from New York to New Orleans in November and assign the Norwegian Gem, which debuts in October, to New York beginning in December to sail to the Bahamas and Florida. In Hawaii, NCL America will lose two ships. The Norwegian Wind will be transferred to parent company Star Cruises' Asia fleet. The Pride of Hawaii will be moved to the European market and be renamed the Norwegian Jade. Starting in September, the ...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Celebrity - New Ship News

Celebrity Cruises continued to expand Celebrity Expeditions by adding the 710-passenger Blue Moon, a Pullmantur ship that will enter the Expeditions fleet in October. The ship will be renamed the Celebrity Quest and will undergo a $17.5 million revitalization in drydock before entering service for Celebrity. It will sail 12- to 14-day Caribbean itineraries and a series of 14-day Panama Canal itineraries. The other new Celebrity ship, the Journey, will begin sailing the Bermuda season from Cape Liberty (bayonne) New Jersey in May.Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Royal Caribbean - Third Freedom Class Ship Named

Royal Caribbean International will name its third Freedom-class ship the Independence of the Seas when it debuts in May 2008. The vessel is currently under construction at Aker Yards in Turku Finland. Along with sister ships the Freedom of the Seas and the Liberty of the Seas, which will debut in New York in May, the 160,000-ton vessel will carry 3,634 passengers and will share the title of world's largest cruise ship. Like its sister vessels, the Independence of the Seas will have amenities that include the FlowRider surf simulator, the H20 Zone aqua park, cantilevered whirlpools, an ice-s...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Carnival - Ship Deployment News

Carnival Cruises will put its newest ship, the Carnival Freedom, on the Carnival Liberty's six- and eight-day Caribbean cruise route from Fort Lauderdale in November 2008. The Liberty will launch a seven-day Caribbean cruise schedule from Miami beginning in May 2008 and sail year-round, alternating seven-day eastern and western Caribbean cruises. The Freedom is was recently delivered from Italy's Fincantieri shipyard and debuted in Europe on March 5th. Carnival also confirmed an order for a second 130,000-ton vessel for Carnival Cruise Lines, to be constructed by Fincantieri and delivered...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Viking River Unveils New Service Guarantee Plan

Viking River Cruises has created a new service guarantee that offers full refunds to passengers who express dissatisfaction within 24 hours of starting their trip. The guarantee, which goes into effect with 2007 cruises, states, "Should you be dissatisfied with our service upon first check-in (hotel or onboard ship) including food, personnel or shore excursions, notify us within 24 hours of the start of your cruise-tour. We then have 24 hours to correct the situation. In the unlikely case that a solution is not possible, you can then depart as soon as you can and we will refund 100 per...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in ,

Holland America's Signature-class ship takes name

Holland America Line has decided on a name for its first Signature-class vessel: the Eurodam. The 2,044-passenger ship, the largest to be constructed by the line, is to be delivered in summer 2008. The 86,000-ton Eurodam will be built at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard with an estimated all-in cost of $450 million. HAL has a second Signature-class ship on option with Fincantieri, with delivery scheduled for spring 2010 "We chose the name Eurodam to celebrate our European and Dutch heritage and our third century of sailing in one of the world’s most popu...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Royal Caribbean – Military Rate Program

Military Rates will are now available on select Royal Caribbean sailings. Restrictions will apply and one qualified guest must sail in each cabin To Qualify: * Active personnel currently serving in the US Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard, Reserves or Canadian National Defense. Proper ID in the form of a US Uniformed Services WHITE. ID Card for US Military personnel, and a WHITE N.D.21 ID Card with Red Canadian Flag displayed- Must be presented at time of check-in. * Retired from any of the divisions listed directly above. “Retired” is defined as A) en...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

New Pillows Enhance Mariner's Dream Stateroom Experience

Creature comfort is the mantra of today's leisure traveler. Holland America Line is answering that call by enhancing their Mariner's Dream stateroom experience with a variety of pillows. The new pillows will come in three comfort levels and will be available in all suites aboard the fleet of 13 five-star ships. The premium line is a trend leader in hospitality innovations at sea, setting the standard in stateroom comfort. "When traveling, a good night's rest can elevate the enjoyment of life's experiences," remarked Richard D. Meadows, CTC, Holland America Line's senior vice pre...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Crystal Cruises Wins 11 consecutive years

For an 11th consecutive year, Crystal Cruises has been voted the "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" in Travel + Leisure magazine's annual readers' survey. Crystal Cruises is the only cruise line, resort or hotel - and one of only three travel companies - to have won the prestigious award each year since the awards' inception. Travel + Leisure readers have an eye for style and excellence. We are enormously pleased that Crystal Cruises' unparalleled formula of choices, space, quality and service is so consistently voted best in class by these savviest of travelers," says G...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Carnival Goes Cellular

Carnival Cruise Lines, in a joint venture with Wireless Maritime Services, the world's largest cruise line will outfit its fleet of 22 ships with technology that will enable guests with any cell phone service to make or receive calls as they normally do on land, no matter how far out to sea they are. Carnival Triumph already has the service installed, and Carnival's remaining 21 vessels will be fitted with the technology by the first quarter of 2007. Consumers view cell phones as a necessity in today's world, said Carnival CEO Bob Dickinson. We've been exploring cellular phone service for...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Holland America Line Introduces Signature Master Chef's Dinner

Dancing waiters! A napkin ballet! Flying pepper grinders and a plate-spinning kick-line! “Dinner theater” takes on a whole new meaning on Holland America Line with the debut of the entertaining and innovative Signature Master Chef's Dinner which combines the premium line's award-winning cuisine, service and entertainment into an engaging new fine dining concept at sea. “We are well-known for our outstanding service, excellent food and innovative entertainment,” said Richard D. Meadows, vice president of marketing and sales. “Our new Signature Master Chef's Din...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in

Carnival Cruise Line Rolls Out New Past Guest Loyalty Program

A new loyalty program providing past guests with a variety of value-added benefits and features, including priority embarkation and debarkation, guaranteed supper club reservations and dining times, personalized stationery and custom-designed Carnival logo items. Available exclusively to Platinum cardholders who have sailed aboard the Fun Ships 10 or more times, the new Carnival Concierge Club benefits are designed to recognize and reward those longtime Carnival guests for their loyalty over the years. Carnival is committed to the highest standards of guest service and hospitality. The ne...Read More...
Posted on April 29,2007 in
About Cruise Planners American Express Cruise Lines CP Vacations Testimonials
Tours Resorts Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions Administration

© 2012 CP Franchising, LLC, dba Cruise Planners. All rights reserved.
Independently Owned & Operated
FST: ST36334  |  CST: 2034468-50  |  NST: 2003-0221
 
  hide quick search
 show quick search