Celebrity Cruises to Sail Caribbean Year-Round, Will Debut New Family and Culinary Programs
Celebrity Equinox will sail year-round Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in 2017. Beginning next April, the 2,850-passenger ship will offer a total of 24 cruises from its new homeport, including seven-night itineraries between June and August, and 10- and 11-night itineraries throughout the rest of the year.
To kick off its first summer season in the Caribbean, the ship will host an 11-night cruise with two overnight stays in New Orleans, during the city's famous Jazz and Heritage Festival, starting April 24. Celebrity will wrap up its 2017 summer season with a "President's Cruise" on August 27. On the eight-night Eastern Caribbean sailing, the line's president Lisa Lutoff-Perlo will treat passengers to special events and excursions.
Conversations with Celebrity passengers had inspired her decision: I can't tell you how many people I bump into and they say: 'We're going on a summer vacation this year, but we can't go on Celebrity because you don't have a ship in the Caribbean'. Every time I hear that, my heart breaks. Now they can't say that to me anymore."
In addition to a year-round presence in the Caribbean, Celebrity will debut a new family program with an array of new enrichment options for kids. "Summer Camp at Sea" will include activities such as video creation, cooking classes and marine biology lessons.
Celebrity also will continue to raise the bar on its food and wine offerings. The new "Taste of the Caribbean" program will feature complimentary activities like cooking and mixology demos, rum and reggae parties on the Lawn Club, and brunch and bubbles. Foodies can even splurge on more exclusive experiences such as a fresh pasta and mozzarella making class with lunch in Tuscan Grille, and a five-course tasting dinner with Celebrity chefs.
The previously announced Chef's Market Discoveries' shore excursion and Blendtique wine-blending classes also will be available on Celebrity Equinox sailings.
Celebrity is offering four free perks ($150 onboard credit, unlimited internet, a premium beverage package and prepaid gratuities) per passenger, on select 2017 cruises booked between July 19 and August 31, 2016, to celebrate the move.
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that, effective July 15, the line will prohibit guests from bringing any beverages onboard. The ban includes liquor, beer and non-alcoholic drinks such as water, soda and juices, but does not include purified or distilled water in factory-sealed containers for use in conjunction with medical devices or for the reconstitution of infant formula. Guests can also still bring fully sealed and/or corked wine bottles for personal consumption onboard, although wine bottles are subject to screening and a corkage fee (for guests 21 years of age or older). Open beverages of any kind must be consumed at discarded at security on embarkation day and at any port of call. Norwegian said that the new policy brings the company in line with other best practice travel security protocols and will reduce the need for time-consuming individual screening and package inspection of large volumes of beverages.
Other cruise lines have also moved to ban guests from bringing certain types of bottled beverages onboard. Last summer, Carnival Cruise Line updated its beverage policy to ban bringing bottled water. Instead of security concerns, however, the line cited the need to deter guests from smuggling alcohol onboard. At the time, travel agents praised Carnivals concurrent decision to lower the price of its onboard bottled water, although others pointed out that liquor sold onboard could still cause behavioral problems.
For more information and to make reservations on a Norwegian Cruise Line vessel, contact The Cruise Professionals at theCRUISEOUTLET.com at 203-288-1884 or email: info@thecruiseoutlet.com .
Cruise lines have cancels calls in Istanbul in the wake of Tuesdays terrorist attack on Ataturk International Airport, USA Today reports. Celebrity Cruises has said that two vessels that were scheduled to use Istanbul as a base will instead be based out of Piraeus, Greece (Athens). Windstar Cruises will sail the Wind Star out of Piraeus instead of Istanbul, as well as cancel calls at Kusadasi (Ephesus), while Cunard Line has cancelled all calls in Istanbul for the rest of the year. Seabourn has moved Seabourn Odyssey Saturday sailing, which was set to depart from Istanbul, to depart from Piraeus instead. The line has not changed for other Istanbul departures over the rest of the summer and fall, and the line will still continue other Turkey calls. Neither the UKs Foreign Office nor the U.S. State Department have changed their travel device for the country. This is important because new travel alerts or warnings generally trigger companies to change their travel plans.
Holland America Line and Princess Cruises still have calls in Turkey that are going ahead as scheduled.
Other cruise lines have already cancelled or altered Turkey calls over the past year. Crystal Cruises has cancelled calls in Turkey. In January, MSC Cruises suspended all calls in the country, and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has suspended Turkey calls for all three of its brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Terrorists opened fire on Istanbuls Ataturk International Airport late Tuesday, exchanging fire with police and then detonating a suicide bomb. The attack is the second in an Istanbul tourist area this summer, following a car bomb in the historic Beyazit Square neighborhood earlier this month.
Seven out of ten travelers use a travel agent to plan and book cruise vacations.
Travel professionals work equally well with new-to-cruise travelers and veterans of the seas and rivers. Long-time cruise lovers wouldn’t have it any other way. They understand the amazing value and benefits of working with a knowledgeable Professional Cruise agent.
Here are a number of reasons why a travel professional should be your first call when considering a cruise vacation.
Oceans of Knowledge: Professional Cruise Agents take regular training in all aspects of cruising as well as products and destinations. They have answers to everything from, “Which type of cruise ship is best for my family of four?” to “Will the chef know to prepare gluten-free entrees?” Cruise professionals are experts and can help you plan your ideal vacation, from a vast sea of choices.
The Real Deal: Cruise travel agents plan and oversee multiple cruise vacations every week. They are aware of the best deals and discounts. They often have access to discounts unavailable to direct bookings. And in most cases, there is no cost for the service. Where else can you get professional advice for free?
• More Than Just $: In addition to finding the best rates, Professional Cruise Agents save clients another valuable resource: time. By all means research the type of cruise and the destinations that strike your fancy. But there is no need to spend hours on the web looking for the best deal. Agents have the most up-to-date offers and information. Let them do the legwork, from finding the perfect cabin to suggesting awesome excursions.
• Concierge Service: By using a Professional Cruise Agents, you can plan out many of your trip’s little details prior to boarding the ship. Instead of waiting in line at the surf-simulator or having to rush to the ship spa to book an appointment, when there’s an agent planning your trip you can enjoy a nearly hands-free experience where the details have been taken care of in advance.
• Professional Cruise Agents Got Your Back: Stuff happens. Professional Cruise Agents are the best resource when it comes to trouble-shooting unforeseen travel glitches like lost luggage, cancelled excursions or travel delays. If a flight is missed or an excursion cancelled, an agent has the knowledge and tools to efficiently handle many of these situations.
• Your Ship, Your Trip: A Professional Cruise Agents can create a perfect travel experience based on your preferences, tastes and travel dreams. They’re always armed with the most current information on how to find the right ship, right itinerary, right cabin and right cabin location.
• Up-to-Date Updates: Professional Cruise Agents are privy to a cruise line’s updates in real time and know the fastest ways to get up-to-date information. This can range from anything from new spa offerings to changes in the ship’s itinerary. They’ll help you take advantage of the latest onboard offerings or onshore excursions – and handle any last-minute concerns.
For more information and to make reservations, contact The Cruise Professionals at TheCruiseOutlet.com at 203-288-1884 or email: info@thecruiseoutlet.com and receive exclusive rates and amenities,
Viking Cruises continues to make waves and now it is on the high seas with its new Viking Ocean Cruises ships. The company’s mission is simple: luxury level cruise travel offered at an astounding value.
At first glance, Viking cruises aboard the new Viking Star and Viking Sea are approaching luxury pricing, and certainly quality, but when one considers the breadth of inclusions, the per diem breakdown puts it much closer in line to lower premium level cruise costs. Inclusions start with the usual meals and basic drinks but extend well beyond to alternative restaurants; 24-hour specialty coffees, teas and room service; wine, beer and soft drinks during lunch and dinner; self-service laundry (full-service for suites); Wi-Fi internet and one shore excursion in every port. The latter two are usually only included with the upper echelon of cruising.
Even all port charges and government taxes are bundled in, and the spa and fitness center facilities are also free of charge. Only treatments cost extra. Otherwise, the ships fantastic thermal suite, therapy pools, snow room, steam room and sauna are available gratis.
Perhaps the biggest factor is how the it compares to upscale cruise lines like Azamara Club Cruises and Oceania Cruises. Viking Ocean Cruises already has two brand new ships sailing, with another four scheduled through 2020. Viking ships with fresh amenities such as all-veranda accommodations and more spacious showers.
Viking Cruises founder and chairman Torstein Hagen said, The thing that differentiates ourselves from competitors is what incredible value we are. Its not immediately obvious to everybody because so much is included in what we offer.
They really defies categorization, sitting somewhere between upscale and luxury companies at premium line prices. In reality, Viking is defining its own version of luxury that is more casual and homey. Viking is wise to avoid classifying itself as a luxury line, however, realizing that luxury means different things to different people. Of course, the service standards onboard are so high though that guests feel greatly pampered regardless.
The bottom line is consumers need to look, well, beyond the bottom line, to recognize the Viking value found in its remarkable inclusions, hardware and software alike.
Clients of theCRUISEOUTLET.com can take advantage of an Early Booking Discount on 2017 and 2018 itineraries, including 2-for-1 cruise fares plus up to $1,000 per person off flights.
For more information and to make reservations on Viking Ocean Cruise, contact The Cruise Professionals at theCRUISEOUTLET.com at 203-288-1884 or email: info@thecruiseoutlet.com For exclusive rates and amenities.
Viking Cruises continues to expand from the rivers to the oceans, its fleet expands. The Viking Star and Viking Sea are already sailing the ocean waters, and the Viking Sky and Viking Sun will follow in early and late 2017 respectively. Six ships are planned to launch in total through 2020, and the fifth has now been named Viking Spirit for a 2018 debut.
In 2017 and 2018, 10 new itineraries will be offered, adding over 30 new ports of call. Itinerary highlights will include Europe and the Americas as well as the Caribbean and even Cuba. The Viking Suns’ maiden voyage in December 2017 will be a 141-day world cruise, also featuring Cuba and sailing from Miami to London across five continents, 35 countries and 66 ports.
The guests on Viking ships are experienced travelers who are curious about the great art, history and cultures of the world. Besides the world cruise, the 10 new itineraries, ranging in length from eight to 22 days.
Among some of the itineraries are:
Trade Routes of the Middle Ages (From Bergen to Barcelona on Viking Star; September 2017, May 2018): The 15-day sailing will trace trade routes of the Middle Ages, departing Norway. Seven countries and 10 ports will highlight Amsterdam, Paris, and two calls each in England, Portugal and Spain. Veranda staterooms start at $3,999 per person.
Venice, the Adriatic and Greece – (From Venice to Athens on Viking Sun and Viking Spirit; October 2017, July-August 2018): The eight-day itinerary will feature the Adriatic Sea coast from Italy to Greece, beginning with an overnight stay in Venice. Ports will include stops in Croatia, Montenegro and more in Greece. Veranda staterooms start at $2,499 per person.
South America and the Caribbean – (From San Juan to San Juan on Viking Sea and Viking Sky; October-December 2017, January-March 2018): The 11-day voyage covers the southernmost Caribbean and even the northern part of South America. Six countries and seven ports will include the Dominican Republic, Aruba, Curacao, Cartagena and Santa Maria, Columbia and Caracas, Venezuela. Veranda staterooms start at $3,199 per person.
New York, Bermuda and the Western Indies – (From New York to San Juan on Viking Sea and Viking Sky; October 2017, September 2018): The 15-day itinerary heads from New York to the Caribbean, visiting nine countries and ports along the way. Ports will include Bermuda, Guadeloupe, St. Kitt’s, St. Martin, St. Thomas and others with stops at UNESCO World Heritage Sites also. Veranda staterooms start at $3,599 per person.
Iconic Cities of the Western Mediterranean – (From Barcelona to Rome on Viking Sun and Viking Spirit; November-December 2017, January, February, April, July and September 2018): The eight-day cruise will sail for the French Riviera and Italian highlights in the Mediterranean with stops at Barcelona, St. Tropez, Monte Carlo, Tuscany and Rome. Veranda staterooms start at $1,999 per person.
Central American Shores and Cuba – (From Miami to Miami on Viking Sun; December 2017): The eight-day round-trip sailing covers the Western Caribbean, four countries and five specific destinations including two days in Havana, Cuba. Other ports will include Cozumel, Mexico and Belize City, Belize to explore Mayan ruins. Also highlighted will be charming Key West, Florida. Veranda staterooms start at $2,499 per person.
From the Caribbean to the Amazon – (From San Juan to San Juan on Viking Sea; December 2017): The extensive 22-day cruise explores the Caribbean and South America. Ports will include a vast range from Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Thomas and Puerto Rico to the Amazon River in Brazil. Veranda staterooms start at $5,999 per person.
Southern Mediterranean Discovery – (From Rome to Barcelona on Viking Star; December 2017, January-March 2018): The eight-day voyage sails the southern Mediterranean from Italy to Spain, encompassing the likes of Sicily and Sardinia as well as Tunis and the Casbah of Algiers, before ending in Valencia and Barcelona. Veranda staterooms start at $1,999 per person.
British Isles Explorer – (From Bergen to London on Viking Sun; May and August 2018): The 15-day cruise covers northern and southern British Isles as well as Viking outposts: Shetland and Orkney Islands. Also showcased will be the Scottish Highlands, Wales and the cities of Dublin, London and Bergen. Veranda staterooms start at $5,999 per person.
Italian Sojourn – (From Rome to Venice on Viking Sun and Viking Spirit; April and July-August 2018): The eight-day cruise starts in the Eternal City and ends in the legendary Italian port city with seven stops between Italy and Croatia. Highlights will include Sicily for Mt. Etna and Bari, Italy and Sibenik, Croatia for UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Veranda staterooms start at $2,599 per person.
Clients of theCRUISEOUTLET.com can take advantage of an Early Booking Discount on 2017 and 2018 itineraries, including 2-for-1 cruise fares plus up to $1,000 per person off flights.
For more information and to make reservations on this, contact The Cruise Professionals at theCRUISEOUTLET.com at 203-288-1884 or email: info@thecruiseoutlet.com For exclusive rates and amenities.
Book by June 30, 2016
RHINE GETAWAY - 8 DAYS ABOARD LONGSHIP EIR - Fares from $1,999 per person
Departure dates available throughout 2017
Itinerary: Basel, Switzerland • Breisach, Germany • Strasbourg, France • Heidelberg & Speyer, Germany • Koblenz & Rüdesheim, Germany • Cologne, Germany • Kinderdijk, The Netherlands • Amsterdam, The Netherlands
GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR - 15 DAYS on the LONGSHIPS—MIMIR OR MODI
Fares from $3,899 per person - Departure dates available throughout 2017
Itinerary: Budapest, Hungary • Vienna, Austria • Melk & Krems, Austria • Passau, Germany • Regensburg, Germany • Nuremberg, Germany • Bamberg, Germany • Würzburg, Germany • Miltenberg, Germany • Koblenz, Germany • Cologne, Germany • Kinderdijk, The Netherlands • Amsterdam, The Netherlands
ROMANTIC DANUBE - 8 DAYS ABOARD LONGSHIP FREYA - Fares from $1,999 per person - Departure dates available throughout 2017
Itinerary: Budapest, Hungary • Vienna, Austria • Krems, Austria • Passau, Germany • Regensburg, Germany • Nuremberg, Germany
DANUBE WALTZ - 8 DAYS ABOARD VIKING LONGSHIPS—VILI, VE OR SKADI - Fares from $1,999 per person - Departure dates available throughout 2017
Itinerary: Passau, Germany • Linz, Austria • Melk & Dürnstein, Austria • Vienna, Austria • Bratislava, Slovakia • Budapest, Hungary
LYON & PROVENCE - 8 DAYS ABOARD VIKING LONGSHIP HEIMDAL - Fares from $2,099 per person - Departure dates available throughout 2017
Itinerary: Lyon, France • Mâcon, France • Lyon, France • Vienne, France • Tournon, France • Viviers, France • Arles, France • Avignon, France
PARIS & THE HEART OF NORMANDY - 8 DAYS ABOARD VIKING LONGSHIP ROLF - Fares from $1,999 per person - Departure dates available throughout 2017
Itinerary: Paris (Le Pecq), France • Paris, France • Giverny & Vernon, France • Rouen, France • Normandy Beaches, France • Les Andelys, France • Paris (Le Pecq), France • Paris, France
Cruise fares listed are for cruise and cruisetour only in US dollars, per person and fares/discount offers are based on double occupancy for US residents only. Prices are based upon lowest price point and category at time and are subject to change without notice. Valid on new bookings only subject to availability and may not be combinable with any other offers Air does not have to be purchased to get cruise/tour offer. Additional restrictions may apply. Viking reserves the right to correct errors and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. Additional terms and conditions apply.
For more information and to make reservations on a Viking River or Viking Ocean Cruise & receive exclusive rates and amenities, contact The Cruise Professionals at theCRUISEOUTLET.com at 203-288-1884 or email: info@thecruiseoutlet.com
