POSITIVE SIGNS FOR RETURN OF CRUISING
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24TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION ESTABLISHED 1998 APRIL 2021 ISSUE 130 PRICE $10.60 (INCL GST) POSITIVE SIGNS FOR RETURN OF CRUISING – Page 4 Odyssey Of The Seas Delivered – page 10 Quantum Of The Seas at Marina Bay Terminal – Singapore Featuring a comprehensive coverage of Global Cruising for Cruise Passengers, the Trade and the Industry www.cruisingnews.com www.cruisingnews.com 1
New discoveries await... Princess® is pleased to announce our largest ever program release, with a full 12 months of cruises on offer throughout 2022-2023. The year long season will feature 4 ships visiting 108 destinations in 33 countries with 90 unique itineraries. Featuring popular cruises across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, as well as popular repositioning cruises to or from Asia & across the Pacific. In 2023, Coral Princess® sets sail on her world cruise to Greenland, the Mediterranean, Canada, The Americas as well as a transit of the historic locks of the Panama Canal. The itinerary features 44 destinations in 26 countries across 6 continents. Guests will enjoy 10 late night stays and 3 overnight stays on this historic 107-night journey. Princess MedallionClassTM will be available fleetwide from resumption of cruising and uses leading-edge technology so guests can enjoy a personalised and effortless holiday. Stay connected with fast & reliable WiFi, order food & beverages to your location on the ship and find your travelling companions with ease. MedallionClass also offers a TrulyTouchlessTM experience from staggered boarding to contactless payment and stateroom entry. LEARN MORE! Visit your Travel Agent | 1300 385 631 | princess.com 2 April 2021
24TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION ESTABLISHED 1998 APRIL 2021 ISSUE 130 PRICE $10.60 (INCL GST) POSITIVE SIGNS FOR RETURN OF CRUISING – Page 4 We are now into our second year of cruise disruptions. Odyssey Of The Seas Delivered – page 10 There are some positive signs for cruising to resume in selected parts of the world with many cruiselines announcing plans for this resumption in coming months – see page 4. Over the past year there has been limited cruising in Asia and the Med with bigger ships, but with reduced capacity and strict health Quantum Of The Seas at Marina Bay Terminal – Singapore guidelines. In Europe, Australia and New Zealand there has been some cruising with small ships also with limited capacity and strict guidelines. In Australia the worrying situation is the slowness in the delivery of Covid vaccinations and this could delay a planned recovery for some time. We await news re International travel. CLIA International responded Featuring a comprehensive coverage of Global Cruising www.cruisingnews.com to the cruise industry instructions issued 2 April by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) under the Framework for Conditional Sailing www.cruisingnews.com 1 for Cruise Passengers, the Trade and the Industry Front Cover – Photos from RCI & Meyer Werft (CSO) in the USA as disappointing. They say the new requirements are unduly burdensome, largely unworkable, and seem to reflect a zero-risk objective Viking’s Grand Voyages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 rather than the mitigation approach to COVID that is the basis for every other Cunard’s 100 Years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 US sector of society. Solar Eclipse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 In Australia and New Zealand the Cruise Lines, CLIA, Australian Cruise This Edition Silversea’s World Cruise 2023. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Polar Ship Launched. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Association and Cruise New Zealand continue discussions with authorities. American Queen Christened. . . . . . . . . . . . 20 CLIA Australasia Managing Director Joel Katz said cruise lines had committed Celebrating 49 years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 to extensive new health measures to support future operations, and that it Tim Ryan’s Feature was now vital that governments agreed on a pathway towards a phased and – New Book Launch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 carefully controlled resumption of local cruising. Between the War Years Part 5 Peter Plowman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The plans to resume cruising in the Kimberley region hit a hurdle with an New Ships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 announcement from the Northern Territory Government. Now it appears only local ships will be able to follow their schedules with international operators locked out. Sarina Bratton from PONANT told us “The States and Territory are all waiting for the Federal Government to provide their Framework for a phased resumption of cruise activity. The intent of this framework is to provide guidelines to commence expedition and/or cruise activity at a level they feel comfortable with doing so under their respective State/Territory Health Frameworks. The Federal Draft Framework provides for small expedition ship activity as its first step then moves to larger vessel capacities in a staged approach. RCI 2022/2023 6 Under the principles announced by the Chief Health Officer of the NT, it does not allow any of the international operators to operate or any domestic operations with more than 100 persons (pax and crew). This effectively kills the Kimberley operations using Darwin as the homeport. Of course, this present position causes us all great concern for the many thousands of Australians who have confirmed bookings for the 2021 Kimberley season; the many Darwin based suppliers, hotels, ground operators, food and beverage suppliers, all of whom have long term supplier agreements with a number of us, and of course our valued distribution system – the travel agents. Just across APT and PONANT’s bookings alone, some $6 million of agents commissions are being jeopardised. We are in continual dialogue with the Federal and State/Territory 100,000th Passenger 14 Governments trying to find our way through to an acceptable solution. The industry provides about $60m of economic impact to the NT and Darwin economies in a normal year.” Australian farmers and food suppliers are among thousands of local businesses hit by the ongoing suspension of cruise operations, with losses to the Australian economy now surpassing $5 billion over the past year. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has highlighted the devastating impact the suspension is having on local producers who supply cruise ships, releasing a new video today as part of its #WeAreCruise series. continued next page... This magazine has been produced in a controlled Coral Expeditions New Ship 14 environment – Once received dispose of the plastic wrap responsibly and immediately wash your hands. Plus the latest news and Proudly Published in Australia by John Treacy & Associates. information on Global Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the information published is correct. www.cruisingnews.com 3 Passenger Cruising
Positive Signs for Return to Cruising Also hundreds of live entertainers and performing artists who Questions are being asked when and Crystal Symphony sailing the depended on cruising for much cruising may return to ports in the Caribbean and new expedition ship, of their livelihoods have been hit United States as there are concerns Crystal Endeavor, sailing Iceland. hard by the pandemic as they with the release of data from the CDC Viking plan to offer cruises in Bermuda now hope for the early restart of as referred to in my Editors Say on and in Iceland. cruise tourism. Many have taken page 3. This had led to the Governor In Australia P&O Cruises is extending up alternative work driving hire Ron DeSantis of Florida suing the US its pause until the end of July and vehicles, landscape gardening, Federal Government and the CDC cancelling all cruises to Papua New stacking supermarket shelves or demanding that cruises be allowed to Guinea and the Solomon Islands for reinventing their careers. Gold recommence immediately. Carnival the remainder of the year. This affects Coast-based comedy hypnotist has made it known they may have this year’s Cairns season where Pacific Anthony Laffan is emblematic of the to consider cruises from other places. Explorer was to be based for two pandemic’s impact on Australia’s Norwegian Cruise Line has sought months from October. Carnival have entertainers and their efforts to permission to cruise from USA ports and plans to resume cruises on Carnival overcome its challenges. Anthony have announced new itineraries will Splendor from Sydney in mid August, and his wife Kasey have used their begin 25 July 2021 sailing Europe and Carnival Spirit from Brisbane in late life savings to open a pizza shop the Caribbean providing approval September. Royal Caribbean, Celebrity at Labrador on the Broadwater is given. The restart is planned with and Princess Australian cruises are – the Cara Mia Pizzeria – after a Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Gem and planned later in the year. Kimberley six-month crash course in pizza Norwegian Joy being the first of its 17 cruising with Coral Expeditions, True baking. The massive impact on ship fleet to welcome guests back on North and APT are planned the performing arts is not confined board. New 7 day cruises to the Greek Isles from Piraeus on Norwegian Jade Also Scenic have cruises planned on to artists alone. Graeme Gillies, Scenic Eclipse on 9, 19 and 29 July who devoted 28 years to building are scheduled to begin 25 July 2021. Also Norwegian Joy has week long and 8 August and Aurora Expeditions his highly respected Grayboy have voyages on Greg Mortimer from Entertainment organisation, Caribbean itineraries from Montego Bay from 7 August or from Punta Cana July to September. Adam Radwanski, managing onboard artists and Silversea’s Managing Director for creating major production shows, (La Romana), Dominican Republic Asia Pacific told us that Silversea is has also been affected. Grayboy had on Norwegian Gem beginning 15 scheduled to start the Kimberley to close its Sydney office and lay off August 2021. Other NCL itineraries have season on 28 May and are optimistic staff to concentrate ongoing non- been cancelled during July and with that the local government will reach cruise related creative activities Norwegian Epic till 1 September 2021 an outcome that balances the needs from its Burleigh Heads office. and Norwegian Pearl till 7 November of local communities. 2021. In Breaking News a number of In Europe Royal Caribbean will send cruise ships from Carnival, RCI Royal Caribbean have announced Jewel of the Seas to Limassol, Cyprus and Celebrity have taken part cruises to the Bahamas and Mexico for all new 7 night cruises starting 10 in the rescue of citizens from the with 7 day cruises on Adventure of July cruising to the picturesque shores Caribbean Island of St. Vincent to the Seas sailing this June from the new and ancient ruins in Cyprus, Greece help evacuate residents following homeport of Nassau, the Bahamas and the Greek Islands of Rhodes, the eruption of the La Soufrière visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay for Crete, Mykonos and Santorini through volcano. Seranade of the Seas, two back to back, visiting Grand to October. Also Royal Caribbean will Celebrity Reflection, Carnival Bahama Island and Cozumel in begin sailings from Haifa, Israel for the Paradise and Carnival Legend have Mexico. Vision of the Seas will also sail first time on Odyssey of the Seas with 3 been welcoming guests, preparing from the Bahamas. to 7 night escapes. provisions, and providing medical After a decade long hiatus, RCI will Seabourn Ovation will operate cruises attention. Just another example of once again call Hollywood home starting on 3 July in Greece and when the cruise industry has come casting Navigator of the Seas as a Silversea will sail the Greek Islands, to the aid of those in need. “series regular” sailing from Los Angeles Israel and Cyprus on the new Silver on 3, 4 and 5 night itineraries to Finally the Italian Government has Moon. Celestyal Cruises will operate announced it will divert cruise traffic Catalina Island, Ensenada and Cabo two ships in Greece from 28 June. from the Giudecca Canal in Venice’s San Lucas. Celebrity Cruises returns to Europe historic centre near St Mark’s Celebrity Cruises has confirmed plans with the brand new Celebrity Apex Square as a temporary solution on for Celebrity Millennium to homeport in from Greece beginning 19 June. There the problem of cruise ships berthing St Maarten from 5 June. Two different will be 7 night sailings round trip from in Venice – more in coming issues. itineraries will be on offer including Athens through September 2021. Aruba, Curacao and Barbados and Special Thank You! – During this MSC will continue with MSC Grandiosa the other to Tortola, St Lucia and time of disruption we have been able and have plans to restart cruises with Barbados. to maintain our publishing schedule MSC Seaside in the Med. not missing an issue. Special thanks Crystal will have both Crystal Serenity Costa Cruises will restart European to our subscribers and the Cruise cruises in early May with Costa Lines for your continued support. Smeralda and Costa Luminosa cruising For the remainder of 2021 we will from Trieste to Greece and Croatia in continue with further issue planned mid-May. for June, August, October and German line TUI has sailings around the December. Canary Islands and AIDA is offering 7 Please keep safe! night itineraries. Kerry & John Treacy Adventure of the Seas Holland America will restart with European sailings on Volendam from 4 April 2021
Disney Magic Celebrity Millennium Iona 1 July ex Civitavecchia. PONANT has from Southampton in UK coastal Dover and Liverpool. New ship Borealis released 58 departures between waters. Viking will have three special will be the first ship to set sail with a 3 March and October 2022 on 7 to 14 sailings along the coast of England with night scenic “Maiden Voyage” from night schedules in the Med. 8 day ocean itineraries sailing round Liverpool on 5 July and Bolette for 3 In Asia both Caribbean and Dream trip from Portsmouth with departures on nights from Dover on 16 August. Saga Cruises will continue operations from 22 and 29 May and 5 June on Viking’s Cruises also have voyages scheduled Singapore with Quantum of the Seas newest ocean ship, Viking Venues. from London on 27 June for 6 nights and World Dream and Explorer Dream Revolutionised Celebrity Silhouette is and Disney Magic will set sail on 2, 3 from Taiwan. Star Cruises have plans returning to Southampton with the first and limited 4 night cruises from the UK to restart cruises in Penang offering cruise scheduled for 3 July with 6 to 8 departing on select dates from London Langkawi itineraries starting 13 May night itineraries. Tilbury, Newcastle, Liverpool and 2021 with 2 night cruises departing Southampton. P&O UK is to offer a series of short every Friday and Sunday and a series breaks on Britannia departing MSC Cruises will deploy its latest of one night cruises departing every Southampton between June and flagship for northern summer cruising Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. September sailing around the UK coast from Southampton. MSC Virtuosa will Asuka Cruises and Mitsui OSK are offering 3 and 4 night breaks and one make its maiden voyage on 20 May offering short cruises to Japanese six night holiday from 27 June through as the first of a series of 3 and 4 night guests. to 19 September Iona will be offering mini cruises before she begins 7 night 7 night cruises from 7 August to 18 cruises from 12 June. Celebrity Cruises has announced 2023 sailings around the Galapagos September. This will be Iona’s special Virgin Voyages will launch operations Island from New Year’s Eve offering six maiden season. in the United Kingdom with cruises to unique itineraries on board Celebrity Royal Caribbean will return Anthem of nowhere from Portsmouth, starting on Flora, Celebrity Xpedition and the 16 the Seas to Southampton from 7 July 6 August. passenger Celebrity Xploration. with a combination of 4 night Ocean Al cruises mentioned in this article will There are major plans for resumption Getaways in early July and 5 to 8 be conducted under special health of cruising in the UK with the UK night British Isles cruising starting 15 July conditions and with limited passenger Government confirming cruising can visiting Liverpool, Kirkwall and Belfast. numbers. start from May 2021. Cunard will offer a Fred. Olsen has unveiled 11 “Welcome Data in this article was correct at the series of voyages on Queen Elizabeth Back” cruises with departures from time of going to press – Editor Crystal Endeavor Star Pisces Seabourn Ovation www.cruisingnews.com 5
Royal Caribbean Reveals 2022/2023 Adventures A summer of adventure is on full throttle in 2022/23.” than ever before. the horizon as Royal Caribbean Together the three game-changing Ovation will continue to wow for International has announced its ships will offer 66 sensational 2 to her seventh Australian season. blockbuster 2022/23 Australian season, 19 night cruises to sun-soaked ports Like her sister, she boasts a bevy of featuring three of the region’s boldest throughout Australia, New Zealand, breathtaking activities like the North ships — including two high-tech Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Fiji and Star, RipCord by iFly, FlowRider and Quantum Class ships. Loyalty Islands. The new season also a myriad of dining options, as well as From October 2022, sun-seekers can features more weekend 2 or 3 night cutting-edge entertainment venues discover Queensland’s newest, most “sampler” cruises than ever before. like the transformational Two70 – technologically advanced ship, featuring jaw-dropping shows that Quantum is the newest and most Quantum of the Seas, sailing from weave aerialists and robots into show technologically advanced ship ever Brisbane’s brand-new International stopping performances. Ovation to homeport in Queensland, and Cruise Terminal. Meanwhile, adventure will offer 20 sailings, ranging from 2 with features like the RipCord by iFly lovers can embrace action-packed skydiving simulator, North Star all-glass to 19 nights, to summer stops in New indulgence on board her sister ship viewing capsule and FlowRider surf Zealand, Queensland, the South the innovative Ovation of the Seas or simulator, she offers the ultimate family Pacific and Australia. savour world-class dining on Radiance of the Seas, both sailing from Sydney. holiday from the Sunshine State. Along Radiance, sailing from Sydney, is with over 18 different dining options – a food lover’s paradise, boasting “Quantum Class ships are in a league including Jamie’s Italian, Chops Grille 11 world-class dining options from of their own in Australian waters — and steakhouse and whimsical Wonderland the exclusive Chef’s Table to guest we have two sailing in the 2022/2023 – she’ll also bring a new wave of favourite Izumi. And with tranquil season,” says Gavin Smith, VP and entertainment never seen before in spaces to relax like the stunning managing director, Royal Caribbean Australia. Solarium, and places to energise, like International, Australia and New Zealand. “This calibre of ship isn’t seen Quantum will offer 24 sailings ranging the rock-climbing wall and mini-golf elsewhere in this region, and their from 3 to 18 nights, including two course, she offers the perfect balance technological innovation and modern transpacific journeys, to destinations of relaxation and action. Radiance hardware open up a new audience in the South Pacific, New Zealand will offer 22 sailings, including two to cruising. Along with fan-favourite and Australia. Families will be spoilt transpacific voyages, ranging from 3 Radiance, they offer variety and for choice over the summer, as more to 18 nights, to destinations such as adventure that can’t be matched – it South Pacific school holiday sailings New Zealand, Great Barrier Reef, South will be time to turn holiday-making up departing Queensland are on offer Pacific & Fiji, and Tasmania. Viking’s Grand Voyages Following on from the record sale of once we are able to travel again. This price offer a unique opportunity for its 2021/22 and 2022/23 World Cruises, is obvious with the unprecedented guests looking for a more in-depth Viking is encouraging guests looking for sale of Viking’s 2021/22 and 2022/23 experience. Voyages to consider – the ultimate cruise to consider its other world cruises. However, for those guests 93 day Grand Pacific Explorer from Grand Voyages, which range from 37 who missed out, we still have limited Vancouver to Auckland, departing to 93 days. availability on other grand journeys, September 2022. Visiting 13 countries, “The halt on global travel due to although competition for staterooms is with 48 guided tours and overnight the COVID pandemic has created already high”. stays in 13 ports from Vancouver to a greater desire to travel than ever Equally rewarding yet shorter, Grand Alaska, on to Asia, along the Australian before and on a much grander scale”, Voyages combine two or more east coast and across to Auckland; said Michelle Black, MD Viking ANZ. itineraries in one seamless journey. 79 day Australia, Asia and Alaska, “Travellers want to make up for lost Viking’s signature cultural immersion, from Vancouver to Sydney, departing time and make the most of freedoms destination insights and great value September 2022. Visiting 12 countries, with 39 guided tours and overnight stays in 13 ports starting in Vancouver to Alaska, on to Asia and along the Australian east coast to Sydney and 37 day Far East and Alaska from Hong Kong to Vancouver, departing April 2023. Visiting 5 countries, with 19 guided tours. Commencing in Hong Kong, Taipei, Japan, Russia, Alaska and onto Vancouver. 6 April 2021
Australia Joins Celebrations of Cunard’s 100 Years of World Voyage Australia is set to play a vital role for Cunard in 2022/23 as, 100 years on, the line recreates the first-ever continuous circumnavigation of the globe by a passenger liner and Queen Elizabeth prepares for her first circumnavigation of the continent as part of a 121-day record homeport season. All three Cunard Queens — flagship said. “A visit to Australia by one or visiting 26 ports in 20 countries, ten Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and of which RMS Laconia visited during more Cunard Queens is often cited as Queen Elizabeth — will sail in Australian the high point of the summer cruise her pioneering voyage. Guests can waters with spectacular calls to Sydney season. Looking ahead to the 2022/23 spend time ashore in Aruba, Jordan, and Fremantle for Queen Mary 2 season, we couldn’t be more excited Tonga and Mexico, along with a full and Queen Victoria as part of their about Queen Elizabeth’s inaugural transit of the Panama Canal, and celebratory Centenary World Voyages circumnavigation of Australia, and we overnight stays in New York, San mirroring many ports of call from know our guests have been longing for Francisco, Sydney, Hong Kong, Dubai Cunard’s inaugural world sailings on this extraordinary voyage.” and Singapore. From Australia, guests RMS Laconia and RMS Samaria. can join Queen Victoria in Sydney on Queen Elizabeth’s circumnavigation In more exciting news for Cunard’s of Australia involve calls to iconic 1 March 2023 for 16 night sailing to Australian enthusiasts, Queen cities and regional gems such as Port Hong Kong, 22 nights to Singapore, Elizabeth's record deployment spans Douglas, Airlie Beach, Esperance, Eden 33 nights to Dubai and 53 nights to from November 2022 to March 2023 and Kangaroo Island with the 25 day Southampton. visiting 15 Australian ports such as voyage departing Fremantle on 7 Nov Queen Mary 2 departs from Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Hobart, 2022 and a 28 day round Australia Southampton on 11 January 2023 for Burnie, Fremantle, Cairns and Darwin sailing from Sydney beginning on 15 her 102 night Centenary World Voyage offering 2 to 31 night sailings. Cunard Nov 2022. Queen Elizabeth’s New featuring four of RMS Laconia’s Australia’s Commercial Director, Zealand itineraries include sailing the original ports of call. The Cunard Katrina McAlpine, said the return spectacular Fiordland National Park flagship will transit the Suez Canal with of Queen Elizabeth for her longest on Christmas Day and the chance overnight stops in Dubai, Singapore, stay yet was a great opportunity for to be in Auckland to be among the Hong Kong, Sydney and Cape Town. experienced Cunard travellers and first in the world to welcome the New Offering amazing opportunities for newcomers alike to delight in the luxury Year. All of this is part of Cunard’s Cunard’s Australian loyalists, Queen features of a Cunard voyage with highly sought-after Christmas Voyage Mary 2 departs from Sydney on 12 calls to 61 ports in Australia and New combining the best of a traditional March 2023 for 9 nights to Fremantle Zealand during the season. “Cunard British Christmas and a contemporary via Melbourne, Kangaroo Island and has a special place in the hearts of Australian celebration. The roundtrip Busselton, 26 nights to Cape Town and Australians and this was never more departs Sydney on 13 Dec 2022. 42 nights to Southampton. Guests can apparent than when Queen Mary 2 Queen Victoria’s Centenary World also embark in Fremantle to sail to brought Sydney to a standstill on her Voyage departs from Southampton on Cape Town, Southampton and New maiden call in 2007,” Ms McAlpine 11 January 2023 on a 101 night sailing York. Spectacular Solar Eclipse P&O Cruises has announced plans for one. The 2023 total solar eclipse is an extraordinary cruise that will give particularly special as it will occur as its guests the chance to see one of part of a rare hybrid eclipse, a form of nature’s most spectacular events – a eclipse which has not been visible from rare solar eclipse. Australia for almost 1000 years. Sailing from Fremantle on 17 April 2023, P&O Cruises Australia President Sture the once in a lifetime five night cruise Myrmell said "the ‘Ningaloo King of with the Astronomical Society of will track over the North West Cape of Eclipse Cruise’ would give Australians Australia, the epitomous professional Western Australia near Exmouth, the the chance to experience a significant body representing astronomers in only location on mainland Australia moment in time, with Pacific Explorer Australia, to create a truly enlightening where the event can be viewed as a positioned off Exmouth to enable experience. total solar eclipse. guests to enjoy a prime position for the Astronomical Society of Australia Vice Also known as the ‘king of eclipses’, this eclipse. As the home grown cruise line, President John Lattanzio said he was solar eclipse will take place at 11.27am we’re always looking to create new thrilled that P&O Cruises Australia on 20 April 2023 and promises to be and interesting sailings to iconic events was offering a once-in-a-lifetime an unforgettable experience as the around the country and we think this cruise will be next level.” experience for seasoned or budding moon completely covers the sun for one minute and 16 seconds, creating umbraphiles – people that love During the cruise, guests will enjoy darkness and making the sun’s fainter eclipses and often travel to see them. special talks from experts on the corona visible to the naked eye. eclipse and will also be able to The unique cruise headlines P&O’s There were only five total solar eclipses take in the beauty of the Western new season of Western Australia visible from Australia last century and Australian coast, which is known for its sailings which will feature six round-trip it has been almost 50 years since unspoilt beaches and dramatic red itineraries from Fremantle between 8 Western Australia has experienced ochre coastline. P&O has partnered April and 18 May 2023. 8 April 2021
Cruise with Viking and explore the world in serene Scandinavian comfort, on modern spacious ships with only 930 guests. With the added comfort of industry leading health and safety protocols, this ultimate Nordic itinerary will The ultimate Scandinavian experience give you peace of mind in this new age of cruising, whether it BALTIC JEWELS & be your first time or the next. Explore hidden gems, magnificent THE MIDNIGHT SUN fjords, legendary cities and the 10 C O UN T R I E S | 2 9 DA Y S | 19 G U I DE D T O U R S historic shores for which Norway and The Baltic region are renowned and to which people return year after year. Simply unpack once and settle in, with privileged access to numerous sights and attractions, world class dining choices, award winning service, and a unique on board enrichment program. Arctic Circle Norwegian Sea Tromsø Lofoten (Leknes) Honningsvåg NORWAY FINLAND SWEDEN Shetland Islands Geiranger (Lerwick) Eidfjord Helsinki St. Petersburg Orkney Islands Bergen Stockholm (Kirkwall) North Stavanger Sea Baltic Tallinn RUSSIA SCOTLAND Ålborg Sea ESTONIA DENMARK N Edinburgh Copenhagen Berlin ENGLAND (Warnemünde) ‘ Gdansk London GERMANY POLAND (Greenwich) Cruise Overnight in Port BALTIC JEWELS & THE MIDNIGHT SUN STOCKHOLM – LONDON or vice versa SET SAIL JUN 2022; JUL 2023 From $18,695pp in Veranda stateroom From $23,295pp in Penthouse Veranda DEPOSIT ONLY $500 PER PERSON E N J OY, I T ’ S A L L I N C L U D E D PRIVATE VER ANDA STATEROOM | NORDIC SPA FACILITIES | SHORE E XCUR SIONS | CHOICE OF 8 DINING OP TIONS WINE & BEER SERVED WITH LUNCH & DINNER | 24 HOUR ROOM SERVICE | WI - FI & GR ATUITIES NE WEST SMALL SHIP FLEE T | INDUSTRY- LE ADING HE ALTH & SAFE T Y PROGR AM NO KIDS | NO CASINOS | VOTED WORLD’S BEST 138 747 VIKINGCRUISES.COM.AU OR SEE YOUR LOC AL VIKING AGENT *Conditions apply. Prices are per person, in Australian dollars, based on double occupancy, subject to availability, includes all advertised discounts and correct at time of printing. Baltic Jewels & the Midnight Sun based on www.cruisingnews.com 9 22 July 2023 departure. Offers are valid on new bookings made between 23 April and 31 May 2021 unless sold out prior. For full terms and conditions visit vikingcruises.com.au.
Royal Caribbean Welcomes Brand-New Ship Setting course for a lifetime of a blank slate to go bolder and be four whirlpools and Splashaway Bay, adventure, Royal Caribbean different, and Odyssey is bringing anchored by a Quantum Ultra Class International’s Odyssey of the Seas the very best of the new and guest- first – The Lime & Coconut bar – are has completed the final chapter in favourites across two continents for the designed for all travellers to enjoy the its construction odyssey. The highly years to come.” sun and stars in style. anticipated marvel officially became Odyssey is the second Quantum Ultra SeaPlex – The next-generation of a the 25th ship in the cruise line’s Class ship, and just in time for the longtime Quantum Class favourite, award-winning fleet, following a northern summer, it will welcome Royal this SeaPlex is the largest indoor and virtual rendition of the time-honored Caribbean’s first guests to cruise from outdoor activity centre at sea, and maritime tradition known as a delivery Israel on sailings where travellers above debuts this venue’s first Playmakers ceremony. Odyssey will now set the the age of 18 and crew members Sports Bar & Arcade. stage for a bold, new way to vacation are fully vaccinated. Israeli residents Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine when it debuts from first-time homeport can embark on 3 to 7 night getaways Bar and Teppanyaki – Two Royal Haifa, Israel in May 2021 and Fort through October to visit sun-soaked Caribbean restaurants new to North Lauderdale, Florida in November. destinations in the Mediterranean, America join the varied lineup of dining Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and including Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos options on board. The fresh take on the CEO Richard D. Fain, President and and Athens, Greece and Limassol, cruise line’s signature trattoria is the first CEO of Royal Caribbean International Cyprus. Following its inaugural summer to introduce its new wine bar concept Michael Bayley, and Master of Odyssey season, Odyssey will embark on a while the other serves up East Asian of the Seas Captain Per Kristoffersen transatlantic crossing for its North flavours in the traditional Japanese received the new ship from Meyer American debut this November, style for which its named. Werft Yard’s Managing Partner Bernard where it’s slated to offer 6 and 8 Meyer and Managing Director Jan night Caribbean itineraries from Fort Action-packed top deck – Returning Meyer in the customary handover Lauderdale to idyllic ports of call like guest-favourites include the gravity- ceremony with a virtual twist. Aruba, Curacao and Perfect Day at defying SkyPad virtual reality bungee CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s game- trampoline adventure, FlowRider surf "Receiving Odyssey of the Seas into the changing private island destination in simulator, skydiving with RipCord by Royal Caribbean family is a welcomed The Bahamas. iFly, and the iconic North Star all- breath of fresh air. The ingenuity, Weighing 169,000 gross tons and glass observation capsule that boasts passion and hard work our dedicated measuring 1,138 feet (347 meters) 360-degree views from 300 feet above crew, teams on land and partners at long and 135 feet (41 meters) wide, sea level. Meyer Werft put into building a new ship always deliver, and to pull it off Odyssey will be the newest and largest One-of-a-kind entertainment – In so well during a time unlike any other ship to homeport in Israel and the first typical Royal Caribbean fashion, is incredible,” said Michael Bayley, of its kind to call Florida its home later Odyssey’s full-scale productions take president and CEO, Royal Caribbean this year. Vacationers of all ages are top billing in teched-out venues such International. “We are looking forward in for a combination of 12 all-new and as the Royal Theatre and Two70, where to delivering the memorable vacations first-to-brand experiences as well as the immersive technology, unparalleled we’re known for today on a ship signature adventures guests know and special effects and world-leading that will mark several firsts for us, from love, including: performers and aerialists take the making Israel a first-time homeport Caribbean-inspired pool deck – stage alongside six agile Roboscreens to introducing Quantum Ultra Class Sporting a whole new look across two for a multidimensional live show. to North America. Every new ship is decks, Odyssey’s two open-air pools, Azamara Announces Name of Its Fourth Ship Azamara has announced the name realized our fourth ship marks the start and vessel handover of its new of a new adventure and we chose a ship, Azamara Onward. The vessel name that celebrates the bright future handover, which took place on 15 ahead for the brand, our guests, and March 2021, coincides with Azamara's the industry as a whole." transition into an independent brand The brand has elected the name and cruise company. Azamara Onward, which represents "Today marks a new beginning moving forward in space or time. The for Azamara, as we increase our Azamara Journey, and Azamara name is meant to evoke feelings of capacity and begin our journey as Quest. The newly purchased vessel, resilience, positivity, and the endless an independent cruise company. formerly Pacific Princess, is currently possibilities of the future. As a whole, Our beautiful new ship can access docked in Civitavecchia, will receive the name reflects the brand's trajectory an extensive renovation to reflect the smaller ports and allow us to bring our guests to even more destinations," said and journey to the next chapter. Azamara brand. Azamara Onward President of Azamara, Carol Cabezas. Azamara Onward will join the brand's is scheduled to sail for its inaugural "When selecting a unique name, we existing fleet: Azamara Pursuit, season around Europe in 2022. 10 April 2021
YEARS Fairbanks McKinley Chalet Resort Dawson City GLACIER BAY Skagway NATIONAL PARK Juneau 7-DAY ALASKAN DENALI NATIONAL PARK Anchorage HUBBARD GLACIER Whitehorse 18-DAY YUKON + TRACY ARM INSIDE PASSAGE Whittier TRIPLE DENALI GLACIER BAY Ketchikan ROUNDTRIP VANCOUVER NATIONAL PARK Juneau ROUNDTRIP VANCOUVER 21 Departures Haines (Skagway) 18 Departures INSIDE Ketchikan PASSAGE 30 Apr to 17 Sep 2022 Air 1 Jun to 31 Aug 2022 Deluxe Motorcoach Koningsdam McKinley Explorer INSIDE Nieuw Amsterdam Cruisetrain PASSAGE VANCOUVER Cruise VANCOUVER We are Alaska. Our history with the Great Land goes back nearly 75 years and we consistently rank as the best Alaska cruise because of our unmatched knowledge and experience. White-capped peaks, arctic-blue glaciers, and wildlife galore are must-sees on every Alaska cruise. Land + Sea Journeys offer the opportunity to explore Alaska’s rugged wilderness and majestic waters. If Denali is calling, combine your Alaska cruise with a stay of up to three nights in Denali National Park & Preserve. If you have a wild side, step off the beaten path and into Yukon’s frontier by adding both the Yukon’s wild frontier and a Denali itinerary. We’re the only Alaska cruise line taking you to this remarkable area. It’s a pleasure to welcome you to the Alaska we cherish. Contact your Travel Advisor, call us on 1–300–987–322 or visit HOLLANDAMERICA.COM We are staying atop health and safety protocols in our continuing effort to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19, which may impact our voyages and offerings, including amenities and itineraries. All U.S. voyages are subject to CDC Cruise Travel Advice which is available at hollandamerica.com/advisory. HA281.2 www.cruisingnews.com 11
2022 Canada and New England Cruises Corner Brook, St. Anthony, St. John's, Halifax and Bar Harbor. The 11-day departure calls at Portland, Maine; Saguenay, Québec; and Saint John, Halifax, Corner Brook (evening stay), Charlottetown and Baie-Comeau. Both ships will cruise the region featuring scenic cruising through the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Saguenay Fjord. Holland America Line, with its perfect sized ships, is one of the only In 2022 Holland America Line's Qaqortoq (Julianehåb) and Nanortalik major cruise lines able to cruise the Zaandam and Nieuw Statendam (Ilivileq), Greenland; and Reykjavík scenic St. Lawrence River, with calls at will be cruising along the East Coast (evening stay), Djúpivogur, Seydisfjörur, Montréal and Québec City on nearly of North America offering a series Akureyri, Isafjörour and Grundarfjörour, every itinerary. of six through eight day "Canada & Iceland. New England Discovery" departures Zaandam offers nine-day repositioning Zaandam will cruise between Boston cruises along the Atlantic Coast featuring New England's quintessential and Montréal, Québec, Canada between Montréal and Fort towns and Canada's undeniable on a series of seven day "Canada & Lauderdale, Florida, in May and Old-World French flair. Aboard Nieuw New England Discovery" cruises with October, while Nieuw Statendam Statendam, guests also can set off on convenient weekend departures. Ports leisurely cruises from Québec City to explorations up to 24 days that stretch include Bar Harbor, and the Canadian Fort Lauderdale in October on a 14 to Newfoundland, Greenland and destinations of Québec City, Québec; day voyage. Iceland, where the region's dramatic landscapes are the star of the journey. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Exclusive shore excursions in and Sydney and Halifax. Nieuw Statendam will debut as the first partnership with FOOD & WINE Pinnacle Class ship to sail to Canada, Nieuw Statendam will sail six through magazine showcase the tastes of the New England and beyond. A new eight day "Canada & New England region. On Canada and New England 24 day cruise departing 3 August Discovery" itineraries between Boston cruises, guests can indulge in authentic on Nieuw Statendam sails roundtrip and Québec City, with weekend poutine and maple syrup-infused treats from Boston, Massachusetts, and departures. Ports include Bar Harbor, or farm-to-fork cuisine in Quebec City; circumnavigates Iceland, making Charlottetown, Sydney and Halifax. sail on a classic lobster boat, then dine six calls around the country, with The eight-day cruise adds Saint John, at a Downeast Maine lobster bake in additional visits to Greenland, Nova New Brunswick. The ship also offers Bar Harbor; explore the best of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. Ports longer "Newfoundland & New England Scotia's culinary scene along Halifax's include Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax Discovery" cruises that sail between iconic waterfront boardwalk; and and Sydney, Nova Scotia; Saint- Boston and Québec City. Ports on the sample Prince Edward Island's freshly- Pierre, St. John's, Red Bay, St. Anthony 10-day cruise include Baie-Comeau shucked oysters, lobster sliders and and Corner Brook, Newfoundland; and Havre-Saint-Pierre, Québec; and homegrown mussels. Silversea’s World Cruise 2023 Silversea has an Australian-centric story; their World Cruise 2023 will set sail from Sydney, in a Silversea first. In fact, it is the first of many firsts on the 139 day voyage that sold out in just one day. "We want to support the local Australian economy, and tourism is a major growth driver. By starting the World Cruise in Sydney our high net-worth demographic will be a win for local tourism," Silversea APAC MD Adam Radwanski said. Silver Shadow, guests travelling aboard will sail the Amazon River to unlock the "Travellers cannot wait to set sail. Our the World Cruise 2023 will depart natural and cultural wonders of this 22/23 sailing season that launched Sydney on 10 January 2023, and arrive legendary region. back in December 2020 has been in Fort Lauderdale on 28 May. The seeing double-digit sales growth over In another first in the history of Silversea, itinerary will present an extraordinary previous years. We sold out our 2023 each guest will enjoy a seamless World mix of destinations, from the remote World Cruise on the day of our general Cruise journey that starts and ends at wonders of Papua New Guinea, opening, which shows incredibly Mauritius, Réunion Island, and Cape their doorstep, with private executive positive sentiment about cruising, and Verde to iconic regions and cities, transfers to and from their local airport. indicated that travellers are seizing the often unlocked on overnight calls Once in Sydney, travellers will then opportunity to take 139 days from their (20 in total), including 10 days spent experience VIP arrival assistance, normal life to see the world in luxury," exploring Tasmania and New Zealand, private executive transfers, and priority Radwanski added. three days in Myanmar, and a full week embarkation. Silver Shadow's butlers Following a Bon Voyage reception and in South Africa. And, for the first time on will then be available to assist guests in dinner aboard the intimate, all-suite a Silversea World Cruise, Silver Shadow unpacking, should they wish. 12 April 2021
W E I N V I T E YO U T O REDISCOVER EXTRAORDINARY WORLDS 2 02 2 EUROPE NOW ON SALE North Cape North Cape VENICE Koper Honningsvåg Honningsvåg Rab Storstappen Island Storstappen Island Tromsø Tromsø Vodice Norwegian Norwegian Vis Sea Trollfjord Sea Trollfjord Svolvær Svolvær Adriatic Kotor Sea Nordfjord Ålesund Nordfjord Ålesund Sarandë Loen STOCKHOLM Loen STOCKHOLM Sognefjord Sognefjord Crotone Lærdal HelsinkiLærdal Helsinki St. Petersburg St. Petersburg Ionian Stavanger Skagen TallinnSkagen Stavanger Tallinn Syracuse Sea Farsund Farsund Senglea COPENHAGEN COPENHAGEN 11-DAY ADRIATIC 21-DAY BALTIC $9,999 $19,999 From From EMPIRES & MALTA GEMS & NORWAY pp pp Roundtrip Venice Stockholm to Copenhagen 21 June 2022 twin share 9 Jul & 8 Aug 2022 twin share Seabourn Quest Seabourn Ovation Intimate Ships Spacious Accommodations Throughout All Ocean-front Suites Personalised Service Curated Voyages All-inclusive Luxury Enhanced Health and Safety Protocols Scan Contact your Travel Advisor or visit Seabourn.com to book your code to journey on the World’s Finest Ultra-Luxury Resort at Sea. find out more *All fares are in Australian dollars, cruise-only, for new bookings only, per guest, double occupancy, subject to availability. Fares are current as of 8 March 2021. Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses are included. All savings amounts are included in fares shown. Information herein is accurate at time of printing. To be read in conjunction with the Seabourn Passage contract www.seabourn.com which guests will be bound by. Carnival plc trading as Carnival Australia ABN 23 107 998 443 as agent for Seabourn. Seabourn reserves the right to correct errors. Ships’ registry: Bahamas. ©2021 Seabourn We are staying atop health and safety protocols in our continuing effort to minimise the risk of exposure to COVID-19, which may impact our voyages and offerings, including amenities and itineraries. www.cruisingnews.com 13
Coral Expeditions welcomes newest ship Coral Expeditions has welcomed their Having arrived in Australian waters in newest bluewater expedition vessel, mid-March, the vessel has undergone Coral Geographer, to the fleet with a an extensive fit-out and provisioning special ceremony in Cairns. Sister ship to in preparation for her maiden voyage last year’s successful Coral Adventurer, from Cairns. The arrival brings good she has the same specialised design news to the Cairns tourism industry with for rugged extended expeditions the employment of over 90 new ship to remote areas. This new class of and shoreside crew and the injection The ship was christened in an official expedition ships is designed around of millions of dollars into the region’s dockside ceremony on Tuesday, 30 the unique Xplorer fast aluminium economy through supply chain and March, which was attended by guests tender boats, which are launched visitation. on the Maiden Voyage. off the back of the ship to facilitate The Maiden Voyage, departed Cairns Following her maiden voyage, the rapid shore excursions. With expansive on 31 March 2021, has taken a small ship will join the Coral Expeditions fleet open deck spaces, relaxing lounge group of like-minded guests to explore exploring the Kimberley region in what and bars, majority balcony staterooms Australia’s eastern seaboard, in full will be the company’s 26th season. and suites and featuring a collection compliance with Covid-19 regulations. Later in 2021, she will sail a series of of Indigenous Australian art, Coral Guests will be guided by Coral newly released voyages to the Abrolhos Geographer is as comfortable as she is Expeditions’ renowned expedition team and West Coast and the wild islands of capable. as they enjoy the beautiful new ship. South Australia. Dream Cruises Welcomes Singapore’s 100,000th Passenger Dream Cruises and Marina Bay Cruise including an upgrade to The Palace Centre Singapore (MBCCS) have suite accommodations for their welcomed Singapore’s 100,000th cruise upcoming voyage. passenger since the commencement With international travel currently of safe pilot cruises in the city. Starting restricted, Dream Cruises has been with World Dream’s first sailing from 6 bringing the world on board World November 2020 has been a worry-free Dream with special themed Super journey for guests aboard, with their Thailand from 31 March to 28 May. Seacations that bring some of the health and safety being the number (R-L) Mr. Mithun Shetty, Hotel Director of most loved experiences from popular one priority for Dream Cruises. World Dream, Mr. Michael Goh, President travel destinations to the ship. Guests of Dream Cruises, Captain Robert Bodin As the lucky guest, Mr. Amin Abdul can indulge in the best of cultural and of World Dream, Mr. Amin Abdul Rahim & Rahim and his family were presented gastronomic delights with the Rhythm family and Mr. Lionel Wong, CEO of SATS- with a collection of prizes and goodies of Korea until 31 March and Amazing Creuers Cruise Services. Official Global Launch of the Emerald Cruises Brand Emerald Waterways and Emerald Yacht “Since launching in 2014, the deluxe Cruises brands have merged under a Emerald Waterways river cruise brand single global brand, Emerald Cruises. and the introduction of our new 5-star “We are excited to announce the luxury yacht, Emerald Azzurra (which move to our new single brand, Emerald sails in early 2022) has captured the Cruises, at the same time as launching imagination of the travel trade, clients new websites around the world. We and our valued guests. With the new believe moving to a single brand Emerald Cruises brand and website, will support our long term growth inspiration and information can now 100-guest, 5-star luxury superyacht that ambitions as a leading, small ship cruise be found in one convenient location,” will sail the Mediterranean, Adriatic, company,” said David Winterton, said, Anthony Laver, Scenic Group Black and Red Seas. Global Director of Brand & Marketing, General Manager, Sales & Marketing On the rivers of Europe, Emerald Cruises Emerald Cruises. “In recent weeks, our Australasia. has a fleet of seven deluxe Star-Ships – portfolio of river and yacht cruises has Emerald Cruises offers a collection with the eighth vessel, Emerald Luna, set seen a surge in popularity, and we of exceptional value river and yacht to launch later this year. On the Mekong can’t wait to return to the water with cruises on three continents. Emerald River, the ninth boutique Star-Ship, both our new and loyal guests, as soon Azzurra, the line’s first ocean going Emerald Harmony, first set sail in late as it is safe to do so.” vessel set to debut in January 2022, is a 2019 with a capacity of just 84 guests. Polar Cruise Ship Launched in Brodosplit The launching ceremony of a polar cruise ship, the Newbuilding 485, which will be named "Janssonius" was held in Brodosplit on Thursday, March 11, 2021. Janssonius is contracted for Oceanwide Expeditions, which specializes in expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic. The vessel is 108.6 meters long, 17.6 meters wide, and the speed of 15 knots will be provided by two main engines with a total power of 4260 kW. It will be able to accommodate 194 passengers housed in 81 cabins, cared for by 78 crew members. The polar cruise ship will be completed in the "LR PC6" class, which meets the latest requirements of the Lloyd’s Register for "PolarClass 6" vessels and will be able to welcome the first passengers for the Arctic season 2021/2022. 14 April 2021
® ULTIMATE ALASKA CHASING LIGHTS & BROWN BEARS EXCLUSIVE 19-NIGHT LUXURY EXPEDITION CRUISE TOUR Join 20 like-minded people for a 19-night unique and in-depth tour SOME TOUR HIGHLIGHTS of Alaska. We’ll commence with 2 nights in Vancouver to let you relax after the long journey. After 2 nights we’ll repack our bags and board our HIGHLIGHTS float planes for a short sightseeing flight to the all-inclusive Clayoquot Float plane transfers, Wilderness Lodge located on Vancouver Island. Remote, refined and 4 nights at Clayoquot remarkable, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort is a boutique, Relais & Châteaux Wilderness Resort, 11 eco-safari-style resort. nights on Seabourn Odyssey, Wildlife sighting We’ll spend 4 unforgettable nights staying in Outpost Waterfront Ensuite opportunities including tents which are situated on a secluded side channel of the Bedwell River. Brown bears and whales & farewell dinner*. Upon arrival, the resort staff will create a customized itinerary for you including hiking, star gazing, kayaking, yoga, cooking classes, canoeing, CLAYOQUOT A LL bird, bear and whale watching to name a few. -I WILDERNESS RESORT N C LU Experience “luxury gone SI V After 4 life changing nights, we’ll board our float planes bound for E wild” at Clayoquot Vancouver for one night before boarding the all-inclusive, award Wilderness Resort, a Relais & winning Seabourn Odyssey for a port intensive, 11-night ultra-luxury Châteaux all-inclusive eco- voyage. Onboard you’ll experience Seabourn’s signature style of safari resort located near intuitive & personalised hospitality, provided by staff passionate about Tofino on the wild west coast of Vancouver Island. exceeding guests expectations. Because of her size, Seabourn Odyssey will visit places the larger ships cannot get into including Misty Fjords, Inian A LL Islands, Hubbard Glacier, Wrangell Island & Queen Charlotte Sound. We SEABOURN ODYSSEY -I N C do hope you can join us. LU 11-night voyage created SI V E specifically for the ultra-luxury expedition traveller. Inclusive of all meals, beverages and onboard activities. INIAN ISLANDS As the gatekeepers to the northern entrance of the fabled Inside Passage, the remote Inian Islands stand between Cross Sound and Icy Strait, exposed to the high energy seas of the Pacific Ocean. DEPARTURE DATE: 19 AUG 2022 | LIMITED TO 20 TRAVELLERS ONLY WATCH OUR VIDEO: bit.ly/UltimateAlaska2022 www.cruisingnews.com 15 For more information visit www.latitude33.travel or call 1300 636 848
INTERVIEW Taking the helm When Holland America Line’s impressive new flagship enters service this summer, Captain Werner Timmers will be on the bridge – and he couldn’t be more optimistic about the future of cruising... Last month, Holland America Line named Werner Timmers, a captain of nearly 40 years’ sailing experience, as master of its newest cruise ship. Entering service this July, Rotterdam will be the third of the line’s Pinnacle-class vessels, carrying 2,668 guests and sharing the widely acclaimed features of her sister ships, including the 270-degree surround-screen World Stage, Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurant and the Grand Dutch Café. Captain Timmers joined Holland America Line as an intern in 1984 and has worked on all classes of ship within the brand, most recently as master of Koningsdam. Here he shares a glimpse of what guests can look forward to aboard the new ship – and what cruising will feel like, post-Covid. As captain, how will the new health and safety protocols change your job? In the maritime world, the rules change constantly. The situation with Covid is not much different in that respect. We will adapt and make changes as appropriate to comply with the new legislation and latest science, and we will continue to work with the Centers for Disease Control in the USA and local health authorities in Europe on our eventual return to cruise operations. As we coordinate these efforts, our top priorities are compliance, environmental protection, and the health, safety and wellbeing of our guests, crew, shoreside employees, and the communities we visit. Have you been busy during lockdown? I spent about half of 2020 on board Koningsdam. At the beginning of the pandemic we were just about to depart for a 48-day cruise around South America. We ended up leaving with no guests and sailing through the Panama Canal to San Diego. After arriving, we took on about 1,300 colleagues from 10 different ships and served as a hotel while we worked out how to repatriate everyone. Then, after spending a few months’ leave with my family in Florida, I rejoined Koningsdam in Panama and started a return-to-service programme to bring the ship back to the USA. How has lockdown affected the daily routine on board? Our routine during the operational pause has been quite different, since there are no guests on board, but the onboard team has not been sitting still. There is the normal maintenance and tests to be performed, and various projects that need to be done around the ship. Just keeping the ship clean with such a small team is a big undertaking, but returning to service will bring us back to normal strength so all those tasks will become easier.Speaking for myself, while there’s been less opportunity to do formal exercise, I have found I’ve been walking a lot, which is great. 16 April 2021
What will be the best thing about returning to the sea? I’m looking forward to welcoming our guests back on board to resume a somewhat normal schedule with the new protocols. And when I return it will be aboard the brand new Rotterdam. This ship will be state-of-the-art and we are very optimistic that we will be able to start cruising with guests right away. What are the qualities that make a great cruise-ship captain? Cruise captains come in many guises, and during my early career I looked at all my captains to try and see what I liked and disliked. When I became a captain myself I took all those good attributes and tried to live up to them. What are those qualities? Well, I think it’s really important that you listen to those around you, whether they are guests or team members. You must always have a plan A, B, C and sometimes even D to avoid surprises. And once you know the plan, you need to share it with the team. You also have to be patient – sometimes really patient – and lastly you should never go faster than you can stop. And what about a great ship? A great ship – now there is a subject that could fill many pages. All the amenities and services help, but in the end it is the team that makes the ship work. If the different departments don’t cooperate, it doesn’t matter what you offer. A good comparison might be with a symphony orchestra. The concert hall may be fabulous, but if the orchestra doesn’t play well together, the music isn’t going to be uplifting. On the other hand, if you have a great orchestra the music can still sound fabulous, regardless of the concert hall. Of all the destinations you have sailed to, which has been your favourite? We cruise to many beautiful places, but I really enjoy the nature in Alaska, where you can see a bear walking on the beach or spot a breaching whale in the ocean. For history, I like the Mediterranean as it offers so many things to see in each port. Where in the world would you still like to cruise to, and why? I missed out on South America last spring so I’d like to have another try at that, and maybe include Antarctica. What can guests look forward to on your new ship when sailings resume? Rotterdam will spend the first season in Northern Europe, sailing out of Amsterdam. There are some really nice itineraries to Norway, Iceland and the Baltic Sea, which are all beautiful areas to sail in. Thank You to the World Of Cruising UK for allowing use of this article www.cruisingnews.com 17
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