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PRICE $8.25 (INCL GST) FEBRUARY 2013 ISSUE 81 16TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION ESTABLISHED 1998 Predictions - Asia will account for 3.7 million passengers in 2017 and grow to 7 million by 2020 – see Page 4 Featuring a comprehensive coverage of Global Cruising for Cruise Passengers, the Trade and the Industry www.cruisingnews.com
Editor’s Say Rice on behalf of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) made an informal presentation to Captain Taylor presenting him with a Certificate of Appreciation. New Ships As we start our 16th year of publishing Cruising News we are encouraged by the continued growth of the industry world- wide. The current South Pacific cruise season with the new ships is attracting a large number of new cruisers along with THIS ISSUE highlights many repeat passengers. Then we turn to Asia where predictions are for the industry there to account for 3.7 million passengers Front Cover: Images from Celebrity in 2017 and grow to 7 million by 2020. We Cruises/Eugene Tan and Ian Hunter look forward to keeping you informed with Fantastic Cruise Season.....................P4-6 the latest news and information throughout MSC Christening.................................P16 the year. Future of QE2......................................P18 Congratulations ICCA Industry Awards......................P20 Ann Sherry AO SeaDream II & Places Visited............P28-30 Sydney’s Macquarie New Look Celebrity Millennium.....P42 River Cruising News..........................P46-48 University awarded has an 3 Photo Gallery......................................P50-51 honorary doctorate March will see the christening of two new to Carnival Australia ships, the MSC Preziosa and AIDAstella. MSC CEO Ann Sherry Preziosa will be christened by screen legend 2 0 1 3 AO in recognition Sophia Loren in the Italian port of Genoa on of her significant 23 March and in the wings will be sister ships contribution to MSC Splendida and MSC Opera. AIDAstella, the government and corporate sectors. the 10th member of the fleet, will have 10 F E B R U A R Y Ms Sherry was cited as a true leader godmothers on the stage for the christening credited with transforming industries that ceremony on the evening of 16 March in she had led. The Doctor of Letters award Rostock-Warnemünde. acknowledged her standing in the business Serving the Community community and the wider community. Ann On Board Celebrity Solstice P30-32 Sherry was appointed CEO of Carnival • Holland America Line has announced “On Australia in 2007 and her time at the helm Deck for a Cause,” a new shipboard giving has seen the transformation of the cruise program that will benefit six international industry and double digit annual growth in cancer organisations located in the United consecutive years. States, Canada, Australia, Netherlands, Germany and United Kingdom. • By the end of 2012, MSC Cruises’ three- and-a-half year partnership with UNICEF and their joint “Get on Board for Children” initiative has raised two million Euros for an innovative project designed to Rescue by Orion P20 combat poverty and inequality by helping ensure that disadvantaged Brazilian children gain access to quality education. • Here in Australia P&O have an exciting partnership with Save the Rescue Operation Children – see story on Page 37 Recognised Recognising Orion’s involvement in the complex and successful rescue of solo Happy Cruising MSC Splendida & Places Visited P34-36 round-world sailor Alain Delord from the Southern Ocean SAR operation, John John Treacy Plus the latest news and Breaking News - Royal Caribbean International has taken a major step in the information on Global development of the cruise line’s next generation of cruise ships when the first piece Passenger Cruising of steel was cut for the first of two Project Sunshine ships. To celebrate the milestone, Royal Caribbean announced the names of the two new ships – Quantum of the Seas, set Proudly Published in Australia by to debut in 2014 and Anthem of the Seas, which will follow in 2015. The Astor will join Cruise & Maritime Voyages in November this year under a three year seasonal charter to operate twice yearly ocean voyages between the UK, Australia and South Africa and the launch of a summer season of cruises from Fremantle commencing 12 December 2013 ABN 71 083 652 019 www.cruisingnews.com for News Updates & Photo Files Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the information published is correct ISSN 1447 - 2112
Voyager of the Seas departing Sydney – Robert Miller Cruising Industry Presentation on Voyager of the Seas Continues to Grow The current cruise season has introduced many newcomers to cruising and is receiving an incredible number of repeat passengers that cruising statistics for the year 2012 when released at the end of April should show 4 impressive growth for the industry. Ports of call throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific have benefitted enormously from the cruise ships sailing the region.There is an unprecedented choice of ships available and in the future we should see more of the big ships arriving.Voyager of the Seas, Celebrity Solstice, Carnival Spirit (now based in Australia) and 2 0 1 3 Oosterdam have led the way introducing new experiences for passengers. The quality dining and on board features on all ships are proving to be the attention grabbers as passengers decide on which ship to cruise. It is definitely the beginning of a new era in cruising from Australia. It is now hoped that port facilities will be improved to handle the increased F E B R U A R Y number of ships. As this magazine goes to press many ships on round the world cruises are still to arrive – Europa, Aurora, Seabourn Quest, Queen Victoria, Balmoral, Arcadia, Costa Delziosa, Pacific Princess, Queen Mary 2, Marina and Ocean Princess – visiting various ports in the region. Columbus 2 – Jonathan Crabb Unfortunately Saga Ruby has had to cancel her world cruise because of mechanical problems and is expected to sail a reduced scheduled taking in South America. Unfortunately we will now not see Saga Ruby again as she retires at the end of the year. Voyager of the Seas, Celebrity Solstice and Oosterdam are already booked to return for 2013/14 season. Others with port bookings include Celebrity Millennium, Volendam, Diamond Princess, Amsterdam, Europa, Seabourn Odyssey, Silver Shadow, Aurora, Seven Seas Voyager, Columbus 2, Silver Whisper, Seabourn Sojurn, Pacific Princess, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, Costa Deliziosa, Amadea, Artania, Crystal Symphony, Astor, Balmoral and Ocean Princess and booked during May is The World. Meanwhile the first-ever cruise forum by the Hong Kong Tourism Board was held recently with more than 150 international professionals from the cruise industry, including representatives from the region’s port authorities and tourism bureaux.Through seminars, site visits, networking sessions and other activities, the participants exchanged the latest information on cruise developments in Hong Kong and Asia to develop business collaboration. Among the speakers were industry heavyweights Mr Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman and CEO, Carnival Asia; Mr John Tercek, Vice President, Commercial Development, Royal Caribbean Cruises Drawing of New Hong Kong Terminal
Celebrity Solstice – Sydney – Eugene Tan 5 2 0 1 3 Ltd; Mr Bruce Krumrine, Vice President of Shore Operations, Europe & Exotica, Princess Voyager of the Seas and Seabourn Odyssey – Robert Miller Cruises; Mr Antonio de Rosa, Vice President, Asia Fleet Operations, Costa Crociere S.p.A; F E B R U A R Y Mr John Stoll, Vice President, Land & Port Operations, Crystal Cruises Inc; Mr Michael Pawlus, Director, Strategic Itinerary Planning & Scheduling, Silversea Cruises Ltd; Mr Graeme Adams, Vice President, Voyage Planning, Port & Land Programs, SeaDream Yacht Club; Ms Ong Huey Hong, Director, Cruise, Singapore Tourism Board; and Dr Zinan Liu, Chairman, Asia Cruise Association. Support for cruising in Asia is expected to take a dramatic turn upward according to Carnival Asia CEO Pier Luigi Foschi. He said “Asia will account for 3.7 million passengers in 2017 Silver Shadow – Robert Miller and grow to 7 million by 2020 with the real growth coming from China”. The Asia Cruise Association said that about 1.7 million Asian passengers cruised in 2011. Development of new cruise facilities are under way with the opening of a terminal in Singapore last year and Hong Kong later this year. During the forum the international delegates and members of Hong Kong’s Advisory Committee on Cruise Industry visited the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal with phase one to open in June 2013 The industry will be watching the Asia/Pacific market for the growth trends. Drawing of New Hong Kong Terminal
Crystal Symphony – Robert Miller Costa neo Romantica – Robert Miller Rhapsody of the Seas – Auckland Ports Carnival Spirit – John Treacy 6 2 0 1 3 Exciting New Cruises Carnival Spirit a 2014 F E B R U A R Y for Summer 2013-14 Melbourne Cup Starter Following a tremendous 2012-13 cruise season Royal Caribbean Carnival Cruise Lines has announced a International has announced the addition of three new cruises in its brand new itinerary for Carnival Spirit in 2013-14 Australasian summer season, including two new South Pacific 2014. The race that stops the nation will sailings on Voyager of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. Due to the soon stop the newest and largest ship to growing demand for shorter cruises, Royal Caribbean will also now offer call Australia home, when Carnival Spirit an additional three-night Weekend Sampler cruise on Voyager of the Seas sails to Melbourne for the Melbourne Cup. in January 2014. The round-trip itinerary will depart Sydney “Voyager of the Seas has been a huge hit with Australians and we are on Sunday 2 November 2014, arriving into experiencing unprecedented demand for South Pacific Island and Sampler Melbourne on Tuesday 4 November 2014. cruises. Because we love giving our guests what they want, we’ve altered During their three-night stay onboard next season’s cruises on Voyager of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas in Melbourne, guests will be able to see to provide more of these popular itineraries,” said Adam Armstrong, everything the fashion capital of the country commercial director, Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia. Voyager of has to offer, or can venture a little further the Seas will now offer a new three-night Weekend Sampler ‘cruise to afield for shore tours such as lunch and nowhere’, departing Sydney on Friday 10 January 2014. She will then sail a wine tasting in the Mornington Peninsula, or swimming with dolphins at new 11-night South Pacific cruise departing Sydney 13 January 2014 and Sorrento; all before Carnival Spirit’s return to Sydney on November 9. calling in Fiji and New Caledonia. Also up until 24 February 2013, Carnival Cruise Lines is offering Rhapsody of the Seas will now offer an 11-night South Pacific sailing guests who book a Carnival Spirit holiday up to $300 cash back departing Sydney 11 February 2014. Rhapsody’s new sailing will call at per cabin* on a range of cruises sailing throughout 2013 and the tropical ports of Noumea, Mare and Isle of Pines, New Caledonia; and 2014.(Conditions apply) Mystery Island, Luganville and Vila,Vanuatu. Queen Mary 2
Moving Forward Crown Princess Princess Cruises has launched its 2014 winter program featuring the cruise line’s first week-long itineraries from Brisbane. Following the success of its summer sailings from Queensland, the cruise line has announced that it will make its first winter sailings from Brisbane in 2014, with the 77,000- ton Sea Princess offering new seven-night cruises to the Great Barrier Reef and Pacific Islands. The week-long itineraries will depart Brisbane every Sunday between 18 May and 15 June 2014 including two cruises to the Great Barrier Reef with calls at the Whitsundays, Cairns and Port Douglas and three cruises to New Caledonia and Vanuatu. The program also includes the first world cruise from Australia to visit South America, with a 104 night voyage on Dawn Princess making maiden calls to Peru, Ecuador and Easter Island. Departing Sydney on 18 May Sun Princess will debut several industry firsts for the Japanese market – including innovative 7-day cruises from the northern coastal Sea Princess town of Otaru, located outside of Sapporo, as well as two new 8-day itineraries from Kobe. These itineraries will offer cruise options to appeal to passengers looking for a week-long cruise vacation, and the northern Hokkaido itinerary will offer a refreshing summer destination. The ship will also make maiden calls in the Japanese islands of Ishigaki, and Amami Oshima, as well as Abashiri and Hualien, Taiwan. Princess Cruises has added several new exotic cruise options in early 2014 giving passengers additional holiday choices in the popular destinations of South America and the South Pacific. Options include a new South America grand adventure aboard Crown Princess – the first such voyage for the vessel, as well as new departures of the line’s signature Tahiti and French Polynesia cruises plus additional Hawaii and South Pacific voyages 8 Dawn Princess 2014, the world cruise will call at 40 destinations including maiden visits to Yangon in Myanmar, Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo, an overnight call to 2 0 1 3 Lima, Ecuador with the chance to visit Machu Pichu and return calls to Rome, New York and ANZAC Cove. Other highlights of the 2014 winter program include: a 20 day Papua New Guinea cruise departing Sydney on 31 August 2014 on Dawn Princess features maiden calls to the ports of F E B R U A R Y Alotau, Doini Island and Kiriwina Island plus visits to Pacific ports including Champagne Bay, Noumea and Vila and Sea Princess’ 15-night roundtrip Indonesian sailing from Fremantle on 3 August 2014 with the first calls to Sulawesi Island, and Indonesia’s second largest city, Surabaya, as well as a visit to Komodo Island, home to the Komodo dragon. Expanding onboard Pacific Princess. During Crown Princess’ South America debut, Japan Cruise Program in 2014 - Underscoring its commitment to the passengers can enjoy highlights such as an overnight call in vibrant Rio growing Japanese cruise market Princess will bring a second ship to the de Janeiro during the city’s famous Carnaval celebrations, sailing around market featuring sailings from three homeports and plans to significantly legendary Cape Horn, an optional overland tour to the dramatic Incan expand the size of the cruise market in Japan to approximately 100,000 ruins of Machu Picchu, and Princess’ first call to Ilhabela (“beautiful passengers. The Japan-built Diamond Princess will join Sun Princess for a island”) – an island that lives up to its name with lovely beaches and cruise program from three homeports – Tokyo (Yokohama), Kobe, and natural beauty. The new 49 day voyage departs Fort Lauderdale on 15 an industry first, Otaru near Sapporo on Hokkaido. Sailing between April February 2014 sailing first to Brazil, then around Cape Horn along the and October in 2014, the two ships will offer 42 departures featuring nine Chilean Fjords and up the Pacific coast to Los Angeles. Shorter segments unique itineraries ranging from seven to nine days.The two ships will visit of 16 to 33 days are also available. To add more of the line’s signature more than 20 ports in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Russia. Diamond Tahiti and French Polynesia voyages, Pacific Princess will move to the Princess will homeport in Tokyo (Yokohama) for an extended season of South Pacific to offer three additional departures of this popular 10-day 9-day cruises that include visits to Taiwan, South Korea, Hokkaido, Russia itinerary.The ship will also offer new departures of a 16-day New Zealand and 15 Japanese ports, including five new itineraries created especially for and South Pacific sailing from Sydney to Tahiti, departing February 25, the ship. During the popular holiday period of Golden Week, Diamond 2014.Other new cruises include a 12-day Hawaii and Tahiti sailing from Princess will feature a special 10-day itinerary that includes opportunities Tahiti to Honolulu, and a 10-day Hawaiian Islands crossing from Honolulu to visit several festivals plus enjoy a special call to Nagasaki, home to ending in Vancouver, British Columbia. Many voyages can be linked for a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries where the ship was built, to celebrate Grand Adventure of 22 to 26 days. Diamond Princess’10 year anniversary. Third Oasis-Class Vessel Royal Caribbean has announced that it has executed a contract with STX France to construct a third Oasis-class vessel for delivery in mid-2016. This order is consistent with the plan announced by the company in October to build a sister-ship to the very successful Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. “The Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas have fundamentally transformed the cruise experience for our guests,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “These ships have consistently generated outstanding guest satisfaction ratings and continue to produce superior financial results. We are thrilled to be adding a sister to this extraordinary class of vessels at a compelling price. Being back building in France just adds to the pleasure.” The contract is subject to satisfaction of financing and other conditions. STX France has also provided the company with a one-year option for the mid-year 2018 delivery of a fourth Oasis-class vessel at similar pricing. Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas are the largest and most revolutionary cruise ships in the world.Architectural marvels at sea, they span 16 decks, encompass 225,282 gross registered tons, carrying 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. The ships sail weekly from their home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Staff presented Captain Adriano Binacchi with a surprise birthday Cake onboard Carnival Spirit
Happy Anniversary! Marina Debuts in Australia Cunard Line’s Queen Victoria has celebrated a special milestone – her Oceania Cruises is set to reveal its luxurious ship Marina down-under in fifth anniversary. Since departing her homeport of Southampton on March.Marina is sailing her way toAustralia with first port of call in Hobart on her maiden voyage on 11 December 2007 – a day after being named 9 March followed by Melbourne and Sydney. Carrying 1250 guests, onboard by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall – she has sailed over half a million facilities include 10 dining venues (six of which are open-seating gourmet nautical miles, called at 196 ports in 63 countries and carried almost restaurants), an array of bars and lounges, a full-service Canyon Ranch 250,000 guests. In all, 20,300 bottles of champagne – enough to fill six SpaClub and fitness centre, swimming pool and hot tubs.The exclusive Bon Olympic-size swimming pools – have been drunk and 9,125,000 cups of Appétit Culinary Center, available on Marina and sister ship Riviera, features tea and 1,460,000 scones have been served since 11 December 2007. 24 fully equipped work stations with induction cook tops and convection To mark this special birthday, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall made a return ovens. Oceania Cruise’s culinary enrichment program Culinary Discovery visit (her third in five years) to her ship on December 13,2012 in Southampton Tours provides guests the opportunity to explore local food markets in and spend time meeting crew before unveiling a specially-commissioned small groups alongside an expert chef. A feature report on Marina will portrait of herself and cutting a special birthday cake. (See story below) appear in our April edition - Editor Cunard’s President and Managing Director Peter Shanks said Cunard was 10 very proud of Queen Victoria, her crew and her achievements since she entered service. Partnership Expanded Royal Caribbean International and DreamWorks Animation are expanding their ground-breaking partnership, announcing that Mariner of the Seas 2 0 1 3 will offer the DreamWorks Experience when she arrives in her new Asian home in May 2013. Mariner of the Seas will be the sixth ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet to offer this experience. The DreamWorks Experience F E B R U A R Y Special Portrait Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall came face-to-face with her own image in Southampton when she unveiled a specially-commissioned portrait of herself on board Queen Victoria – the Cunard liner that The Duchess named five years ago in December 2007. Her Royal Highness was making a special return visit to Queen Victoria to mark the fifth birthday celebrations.The portrait was painted by noted royal artist Richard Stone. Cunard’s President and Managing Director Peter Shanks said, “We are was introduced recently on Voyager of the Seas. “The DreamWorks delighted that Her Royal Highness joined us for such a special day in the Experience has been a huge hit with Australian guests of all ages on life of the ship and her crew. Queen Victoria is very much The Duchess’ Voyager of the Seas, and we are delighted that this popular feature is being ship and we are honoured that she continues to display such an interest offered to guests on another innovative ship that will be based in our in the ship and her crew”. neighbouring region,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Royal This new portrait of The Duchess is in keeping with the Cunard tradition Caribbean Cruises Australia. of commissioning commemorative sculptures or portraits for display on Every Royal Caribbean ship with the DreamWorks Experience features board each ship named by a member of the Royal Family. The three- parades, themed activities and events based on DreamWorks Animation’s quarter length artwork shows The Duchess seated and dressed in a popular feature-film characters, including Po of “Kung Fu Panda;” Shrek, cream suit with ruffle detailing. It replaces a photograph of The Duchess Fiona and Puss In Boots of “Shrek;” and Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, which she signed just before naming Queen Victoria, and will be given and the Penguins from “Madagascar”. Each ship also is equipped with a a prominent place in the ship’s Grand Lobby. Renowned artist Richard 3-D movie theatre playing the latest DreamWorks Animation films, such Stone was commissioned by Cunard to paint the new portrait. He has as the summer blockbuster “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted in 3-D”. been a portrait painter for 35 years and has painted most members of the Royal Caribbean’s younger guests in the complimentary award-winning Royal Family. The Duchess sat for Stone three times at Clarence House. Adventure Ocean children’s program can also enjoy an exhilarating line- Only Weeks for Norwegian up of activities, games and adventures rooted in the popular DreamWorks Animation films. Additionally, guests can enjoy DreamWorks Animation Breakaway’s Arrival programming on a dedicated RCTV channel in every stateroom and can also meet their favourite DreamWorks characters over the DreamWorks Norwegian Breakaway, also known as “New York’s Ship” for its New York Character breakfasts in the main dining room, and take advantage of plenty inspired amenities and features, will arrive in Rotterdam,The Netherlands, of photo opportunities throughout the day. Royal Caribbean recently on 26 April for the start of her European inaugural events and then on 29 April travels to the UK for a one-night preview. The ship will depart released an online video about the DreamWorks Experience Character Southampton on 30 April and embark on her maiden voyage, a seven-day Breakfasts.The DreamWorks Experience was first launched aboard Allure transatlantic crossing to New York City.The inaugural events will culminate of the Seas in November 2010, with beloved character Princess Fiona of with the ship’s spectacular christening in New York City – Norwegian the “Shrek” franchise inaugurating the ship as godmother, and continues Breakaway’s year-round homeport – on 8 May followed by a two-night to impress guests and receive accolades. As well as on Voyager of the Seas, exclusive inaugural cruise. One of New York’s most illustrious and beloved the award-winning entertainment has since been expanded to Oasis of icons, The Rockettes, are set to serve as the ship’s Godmothers. the Seas, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas.
Oosterdam Upgrade 2014 CALENDAR Chefs’ Cooking Holland America’s Oosterdam recently spent School Series - time at the Garden Island Dry-Dock during 2Silversea has unveiled its 2014 Voyage Calendar, Acclaimed culinary which general maintenance and repairs were encapsulating a dazzling 20th Anniversary Collection trainer David Bilsland, carried out which included replacing old carpets of more than 200 sailings aboard its fleet of ultra- a former instructor and some soft furnishings. Photo David Barnett luxury small ships. Karen Christensen, General at the prestigious Le Manager and Director Sales and Marketing Australasia for Silversea, commented: “2014 is a Cordon Bleu culinary school in London, is again set to host Newbuild Named big year for Silversea, as it marks the company’s Silversea’s exclusive “Relais & Châteaux L’École The first block of the hull was laid on 10 December 20th anniversary. We are celebrating this milestone des Chefs” interactive cooking school in 2013. at Fincantieri’s Marghera, Italy, shipyard forming with a fascinating selection of voyages offering On 14 ultra-luxury voyages across the globe, the central part of Costa Diadema, the future more choice than ever for our well-travelled Chef Bilsland will present a program developed flagship of Costa Cruises. Diadema in Italian guests, and this brochure provides an overview in collaboration with Jacques Thorel, a consulting means “tiara” and the name was selected for the of this exciting voyage collection.” In 2014, more Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux. Silversea enjoys new ship that will serve as the crown jewel and than 500 destinations will be on offer to suit the the privilege of featuring the only “Relais & flagship of the Costa Cruises fleet. During the most discerning of clients. 12 new destinations will Châteaux L’École des Chefs” cooking school at ceremony, the block weighing approximately 496 be included in the itineraries: Melilla and Almeria sea. The innovative program -- which is offered tons, measuring 51.5 feet wide by 95 feet long, in Spain; Haugesund, Norway; Eskifjordur and completely free of charge -- provides guests with was lifted by a crane and laid in the dry dock Djupivogur in Iceland; Koror, Palau; Ponce, Puerto a special culinary curriculum, including hands-on where the ship will be built. Construction and Rico;Trujillo, Honduras;Alotau, Papua New Guinea; instruction, and entertaining events. fitting out will continue until 30 October 2014, Kavala, Greece, and the Canadian destinations of New Shorter Voyages - In its continuing the scheduled date of delivery. Construction of Sept-Iles and Trois-Rivières. Other highlights of mission to provide guests with more choices, Costa Diadema will employ approximately 1,000 the 2014 Voyage Calendar include Silversea’s 2014 Silversea Cruises has just announced a new shipyard workers plus another 2,500 employees World Cruise aboard Silver Whisper - an epic collection of eight shorter cruises for 2013 of allied industries. About 400 contracted 113-day journey from Los Angeles to Barcelona of four- to seven-day voyages to Northern suppliers, most of which are Italian firms, will be departing January; a Silver Spirit Mediterranean Europe and the Mediterranean. These cruises involved in the project, especially regarding fitting voyage in May taking in both the Cannes Film are designed for time-strapped working out the ship’s interiors. The Costa Diadema is Festival and the Monte Carlo Grand Prix; a series professionals, travellers who like to combine a 132,500 gross tons, 1,004 feet long, 122 feet in of Silver Shadow sailings in the South Pacific, and cruise with a land program, and individuals who the beam, the ship will carry 4,947 guests and visits by Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver may be new to luxury cruising. 1,253 crewmembers, with 1,854 guest cabins. Wind to Myanmar 2013 KIMBERLEY 30 EXPEDITION CRUISING The Ultimate Kimberley Expedition Cruise 10 Nights Darwin to Broome v.v With Australia’s Coral Princess Cruises you’ll discover all of the icons of the Kimberley Coast over 10 unforgettable nights cruising between Darwin and Broome. In the north, discover the majestic King George River, with its towering 80 metre twin falls and the mysterious Bradshaw Paintings of Bigge Island. Explore the Mitchell Plateau and cruise the Kimberley’s iconic rivers, before exploring beautiful King Cascades, remarkable Montgomery Reef and the amazing natural phenomenon of the Horizontal Falls in the south. Cruising aboard your choice of our purpose-built small ships Oceanic Discoverer or Coral Princess, you’ll discover all of the region’s icons, and with two landings most days you’ll enjoy the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Kimberley. Aboard our unique ‘Xplorer’ expedition vessel and our fleet of zodiacs, and with the expert local knowledge of our experienced guides you are assured of making the most of every minute of your expedition. Throughout your cruise you will discover the very best of the Kimberley and with Coral Princess Cruises you will do it all in unrivalled style and total comfort. Enquire for further details. ACN 010 908 417.
Royal Princess Update New Look and Refreshed Joining the Princess fleet in June 2013, the new Royal Princess is sure to delight its 3,600 passengers with exciting new innovations and signature Spaces for Azamara Journey Azamara Journey, the second of Azamara Club Cruises’ twin boutique features which include a cantilevered walkway and bar on the top deck, ships to undergo refurbishment recently emerged from an eight-day dry an enlarged Sanctuary bar, an adult-only pool and the largest Movies dock in Singapore’s Sembawang Shipyard. The vessel is now complete with Under The Stars screen Princess has built so far. The new youth and teen a refresh of all public spaces and staterooms and an elegant new “Azamara facilities onboard Royal Princess have just been revealed and they offer an Blue” exterior hull. extra level to the onboard experience for young passengers, with all age Ship-wide renovations included new carpets, upholstery, and a new colour groups finding more space following the provision of dedicated outdoor palette in public spaces reflecting the cruise line’s inviting atmosphere, areas, including a new teen lounge and a special fun area just for kids under new mattresses and upgraded veranda furniture for suites and staterooms three. The Princess Pelicans (ages 3-7) group will enjoy group activities like movie nights, a new mini air hockey table, a special area for arts and and a resurfaced pool, with new sun loungers and pool towels on the crafts programs and a new indoor play structure. In addition, they’ll have outer decks. On the culinary front, guests can now enjoy a new caviar a new outdoor play area, which includes toys, games, tricycles and a new and champagne bar within Aqualina, one of the ships’ two specialty 14 playground. Shockwaves (ages 8-12) will feature a dedicated outside area complete with lounge chairs and a variety of fun games, including air dining venues, as well as a new Chef’s Table concept featuring three wine degustation menus – Italian, French and Californian. At Mosaic Café, the hockey, skeeball and exciting game stations.They will have their own lounge ships’ central gathering spot, guests can purchase a freshly brewed cup of with a giant TV, a DJ Booth and arts and crafts tables with activities led by bespoke coffee. Princess’ youth counsellors. Also they can hang out and enjoy their own The Spa and fitness centre was refreshed with a new steam room, showers, 2 0 1 3 pizza and ice cream parties or kids-only dinners. The Remix (ages 13- and state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio equipment, while the Casino Bar 17) area for teens will feature a Princess DJ booth where music lovers can was also expanded and enhanced with new furniture. Furthermore, a range of enhancements were made behind the scenes in the staff and crew areas to add to the comfort of the cruise line’s most valuable asset. F E B R U A R Y 10th Anniversary On 6 January 2013 Oceania Cruises marked its 10th anniversary, kicking off a year of special events. Founded by cruise industry visionaries Frank Del Rio, Bob Binder and Joe Watters in 2003, the line’s mission was to deliver destination-rich itineraries, “best in class” cuisine, an inviting country club atmosphere, and luxurious accommodations all at an extraordinary value. With the addition of Marina in 2011 and Riviera in 2012 to the fleet of Regatta (2003), Insignia (2004) and Nautica (2005), Oceania Cruises has built an entirely new segment of the industry with its elegant, award-winning, mid-size ships and exceptional personalized service. “Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Oceania Cruises is an achievement made possible by the loyalty of our guests, employees, crew and travel partners,” said Frank Del Rio, the line’s founder, and chairman and CEO of parent company Prestige Cruise Holdings. “Because of their support, the next 10 years and beyond are filled with just as much promise and opportunity to continue to evolve the Oceania Cruises experience and the modern cruise vacation for our guests.” The company will celebrate fleet-wide with a special 10th Anniversary dessert called ZEN, a Manjari Chocolate Bar with Milky Gianduja-Yuzu and Hazelnut Croquant featured in the Grand Dining Room and a menu of Canyon Ranch SpaClub® 10th anniversary treatments available on all ships. Throughout the year, Oceania Cruises’ fans will find profiles of crew create their own playlist. In addition, there’s a new lounge area, featuring members who will also pass the 10-year mark with the company on the line’s games like foosball, skeeball and the latest video games. A brand new Facebook page. Nearly 100 crew members are reaching this milestone. West Coast Short outdoor lounge offers cool club lighting, contemporary seating, a great new wading pool, and music perfect for parties under the stars. Teens will also Cruise Program enjoy sports competitions, late night movies, hip hop dance classes, teens- only “mocktail” party, formal dinner and the always-popular video game tournaments. Carnival Cruise Lines will expand capacity on the West Coast with the Ship Named introduction of year-round 3 and 4 day cruises on the 2,052-passenger Carnival Imagination from Long Beach, California beginning 26 January 2014. The official naming ceremony for Carnival Cruise Lines’ new Carnival The move will bring the total number of Carnival ships operating from Long Breeze took place Saturday, 8 December 2012 at Port Miami. Serving as Beach to three. Carnival Imagination will offer 3 day cruises to Ensenada, the ship’s godmother was Tracy Wilson Mourning, founder of the Miami- based Honey Shine mentoring program, who initiated the breaking of the Mexico, departing on Thursdays and 4 day voyages to Catalina Island and traditional bottle of champagne on the ship’s hull during the invitation-only Ensenada departing on Sundays. The vessel’s sister ship, Carnival Inspiration, event. Following its inaugural season in Europe, the 130,000-ton Carnival will continue to offer a similar program from Long Beach with 3 day cruises Breeze began sailing year-round six and eight day Caribbean cruises from departing on Fridays and 4 day cruises on Mondays. Additionally, the 7 day Miami on 24 November 2012 becoming the largest Carnival Cruise Lines Mexican Riviera and 15 day Hawaii programs from Long Beach previously ship ever based in South Florida. operated by the Carnival Splendor will continue on the Carnival Miracle Carnival Breeze features a variety of exciting innovations including the seasonally from October 2013 through April 2014.Together, these ships will Thrill Theatre, an immersive multidimensional experience that makes carry approximately 550,000 guests annually from Long Beach. Prior to the viewers feel like part of the movie, as well as spectacular exciting top- start-up of its new West Coast schedule, Carnival Imagination will offer a deck attractions like the WaterWorks water park and SportSquare, an 16 day Panama Canal cruise departing Miami 10 January 2014 with ports of open-air recreation area with a suspended ropes course, a two-level call on this voyage to include Grand Cayman, Montego Bay, Cartagena, Punta miniature golf course, and more. Arenas, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas.
The beauty of the Red Sea aboard MSC Armonia Lynne Clarke, Managing Director of MSC Cruises Australia took the chance to combine the celebration of New Year’s Eve with the beauty of the Red Sea a board MSC Armonia, below is a snapshot of her journey. With so many wondrous sites to visit, the chance to capture a destination on my bucket list, The Red Sea over New Year’s Eve was magical, so my daughter Brianna and I fly to MSC Armonia for a 7 night cruise. Sharm el Sheik is a great port to embark the cruise. Its landscape, whilst rugged and tormented holds a mesmerising beauty. Sharm itself consists of many resort hotels built along the shoreline of the Red Sea. We embarked on MSC Armonia prior to lunch, a good indication of what was to be an important part of our journey (food!). After a pleasant lunch, we made our way onto the beach of the Dead Sea. For some reason I had anticipated warm water, however it was not so. An experience to remember! You have to lower yourself in a sitting position, quickly lift up your legs and then float on your back. May I confirm that -float you do- and it is not a hoax as many people believe when they look at photos. It was amazing to be at the lowest place on earth, in fact, 400 metres below sea level. Petra- Jordan We woke early, it rings true the saying “wake up to a different port each day” we certainly were! The distance from Eilat to Aqaba was only 2.2 nautical miles, which really reminded me of the Australian term ‘across the pond’. This was indeed a special day, as we were both so excited to be able to actually see and touch the most wondrous site in the world - Petra. The atmosphere once we arrived in Petra reminded me a little of Kathmandu, which I had visited about 15 years ago.The weather was slightly cooler and for the first time I had to put on my jumper.There is so much to see from the moment you enter the world’s richest and largest archaeological site. It was like being in a chocolate box! Safaga When we reached the iconic site of Petra, Brianna had tears in her eyes, Let me start by saying today is a long one however it was worth it! and for the first time in my life I felt cold shivers running down my arm. Absolutely! Seeing the Temple of Luxor for the first time was somewhat All I can say is if you have not been – do take the opportunity overwhelming. It was hard to digest the magnitude of the sites history and visit this wondrous place. I honestly would not do it justice in and age. Our journey continued to the Nile River with lunch on board a trying to describe the amazing wonder of the world. traditional felucca. The River was a welcome relief and as we sailed past the bull rushes it was easy to visualise Moses suddenly appearing in his Sokna basket as a baby. Feeling stronger after our lunch and with the haven of A later start to the day –Pyramids and Sphinx here we come! I am sure the Nile, our next historic stop was the Valley of the Kings. We arrived many people similar to me have always wanted to see this great “places late in the afternoon and this gave us time to imbibe our minds and soul of eternity”. Our first stop was the step pyramid – Pyramid of Djoser, in the burial place of kings. The fading rays of the sun created an ethereal from there travelling through Cairo to get to Giza was an eye opener. I ambience, the sand had a purple hue, there was not a breath of wind and will never complain about Sydney traffic again. When we arrived at the for a moment we made our mark in the historic area and paid homage to pyramids of Giza the sun was on the cusp of setting.The sky was filled with the ancient pharaohs by visiting a number of their tombs. soft hues of pinks, blues and oranges. It was the perfect backdrop to the phenomenal pyramids. Irrespective of how many times you see images of Relaxation the pyramids, nothing can prepare you for their enormity, their grandeur Today we delighted in exploring the offerings on board. After breakfast and the impact they have on your senses. in Deck 5 Marco Polo restaurant, we had a really good Italian coffee, then read our books by the pool. Absolute Heaven! It is important to note that This is only a touch of the experience, however I hope you although a bit cloudy, the sun was still strong; therefore, if you are visiting all enjoyed our thoughts on this stunning area of the cruising this area you should still apply sunscreen even during the ‘winter’ season’. world. The year-end festivities started early so we dressed in our formal garments Visit www.msccruises.com.au for the full experience and I hope around five. This was the 31st December, and food was definitely a focal to see you on board soon. point with the gala dinner being a true feast and it was wonderful that we did not have to drive for this excellent restaurant experience or worry about that extra glass of champers. There were so many after dinner events arranged to bring in the New Year, however, the Dead Sea had been on my bucket list since I was a little girl and it beckoned tomorrow. Israel NewYear’s Day! A very different start to 2013.A new destination, a new experience and a new memory to go into the ever growing memory bank. Israel. It was a very difficult decision first thing, Jerusalem as it is so close or travel to the Dead Sea and Masada, a tough choice. On arrival at Masada, I was in awe of the location, the time in history that it was built and the most amazing view. Masada, which means fortress in Hebrew is situated on an isolated rock cliff overlooking the Dead Sea. On the east side there is a sheer drop to the Dead Sea. Masada was built between 37 and 31 BC. It was a refuge for King Herod and certainly had all the bells and whistles for his palace, including traditional Roman bathhouses and terraced entertainment areas.
Additions to Prinsendam Holland America Line recently completed the addition of the line’s casual Italian restaurant Canaletto and transformed the Lido Terrace into an enclosed Wintergarden aboard ms Prinsendam. Named for the famous 18th-century Venetian artist, the award-winning Canaletto is located in the Wintergarden, which is adjacent to the Lido dining area. The restaurant The Countdown is on... On 23 March 2013, MSC Preziosa, the latest addition to the MSC Cruises’ serves classic Italian fare with tableside service for dinner only. With the addition of the eatery to Prinsendam, Canaletto is now on all 15 ships in the Holland America Line fleet. “We continue to invest in our fleet and fleet and the fourth and final addition to the celebrated Fantasia class the onboard experience to offer the best premium cruise experience,” ship, will be christened in Genoa. With only weeks to go MSC Cruises has said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest announced an exciting new partnership with Eataly, the popular Turin-based programs. “Prinsendam has one of our most loyal followings, so the new chain founded in 2007 by Oscar Farinetti, which today counts several food and restaurant emporiums in Italy, Japan and the US, with plans to open new branches in Dubai, Turkey, Brazil and UK. The partnership with Eataly involves opening the first two Eataly restaurants at sea on board brand new flagship MSC Preziosa. In the area that hosts the Tex Mex speciality restaurant on her Fantasia class sister-ships, MSC Preziosa will instead feature two entirely unique dining venues: the Eataly Restaurant and the Ristorante Italia. With around 80 seats, the Eataly Restaurant will mirror Eataly’s original concept, creating a stylish, minimalist space where people can eat, buy and learn about the best Italian food. A choice of 18 dishes will be prepared and served at lunch and dinner, including pasta, vegetables, Wintergarden and popular Canaletto will certainly be appreciated by our seafood, meat, cold cuts and cheese. The exclusive 24 seat evening-only guests.” In addition to Canaletto, Ristorante Italia will offer a different ultra-high-quality ‘table d’hôte’ menu the 835-guest Prinsendam’s every night, especially conceived by Eataly chefs, with dishes made from Slow aft Lido terrace was enclosed Food Presidia products - a foundation created to protect small producers and remodelled into a covered and to preserve the quality of artisan products. Wintergarden. The new area increased the dining capacity of the Lido and provides the venue for Canaletto. The ship also received 16 other cosmetic enhancements during its dry-dock in Freeport, Bahamas, including new balcony decking and balcony dividers. ‘Xplorers club’ and New 2 0 1 3 Website Launched Coral Princess Cruises has announced details of their new Xplorers club loyalty program to coincide with the launch of the company’s new website F E B R U A R Y Farewell to Melody at www.coralprincess.com.au. After completing their first cruise with the company guests are automatically admitted to the Xplorers club as a Silver MSC Cruises has confirmed that Melody, the smallest ship in the MSC member, with the ability to receive even greater benefits after accruing Cruises’ fleet, is retiring from service and will no longer offer cruises additional nights onboard and qualifying as Gold or Platinum members. on behalf of the Geneva-based company. The decision to withdraw one Members of the club receive generous discounts of between 5% and 10% of its first and most traditional cruise ships reaffirms MSC’s focus on off normal cruise prices, along with a range of onboard bonuses including cutting-edge service and reflects the company’s continued desire to offer a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine on boarding each cruise, free travellers the highest standards in product innovation and the maximum wireless internet access and discounts on bar purchases. Gold and Platinum in comfort, elegance and technology across the entire fleet. Weighing members will also receive advance notification of new itineraries and an 35,143 tons, measuring 204.7 metres in length and 27.35 metres in width, invitation to exclusive Xplorers club cruises, whilst Platinum members will Melody has been part of the MSC Cruises’ fleet since 1995, when she was receive a special travel compendium in recognition of their status as one originally purchased as the Starship Atlantic. The ship was swiftly renamed of the company’s most frequent guests. In a first for the Australian cruise Melody and sailed from Florida to Durban, where she received significant industry, a milestone reward of a free 7-night Great Barrier Reef cruise is refurbishments and was transformed into the much loved and immensely available to all Xplorers club members after completing 50 cruising nights popular Melody, with a capacity of just over 1,000 guests in 532 cabins. The aboard the Coral Princess fleet. ship left Durban for Genoa on her maiden voyage on 1 May 1997, and has The launch of Xplorers club coincides with the release of the sailed various itineraries all over the world ever since, most recently in the company’s new website www.coralprincess.com.au. Full details Mediterranean, Black Sea and South Africa, offering a relaxed and informal of the Xplorers club can be found at www.coralprincess.com.au/ cruise-ship experience. xplorersclub/.
QE2 to Floating Hotel Reappointed Chairman QE2 Dubai has announced that MS Queen Elizabeth 2 has been moved to The International Cruise Council Australasia has announced the Drydocks World Dubai for undertaking classification checks prior to her reappointment of Royal Caribbean Cruises Regional Vice President Asia renovation as a luxury floating hotel. QE2 Dubai has created a large consortium Pacific Gavin Smith as its Chairman for 2013. Meanwhile Carnival Australia to convert the QE2 into a five-star hotel with 500 rooms managed by a CEO Ann Sherry has joined the board, taking up one of the two existing prestigious international hotel as an operator. The Oceanic Group, a group Deputy Chairman positions, alongside long-serving board member Andrew of deeply-experienced advisers to cruise operators and managers in Asia, will Millmore, who represents Compagnie du Ponant. Ms Sherry replaces take the lead in managing this project while Drydocks World Dubai will carry Carnival Australia Director of Sales Don Clark. APT CEO Chris Hall out extensive technical and operational checks prior to her move into Asia. remains Treasurer while Viking River Cruises Managing Director Teresia The vision for the QE2 is for her to become a landmark cultural and tourist Fors will continue as Secretary. Tony Smith from Francis Travel Marketing, attraction-a beacon of luxury, glamour, quality and tradition - in the heart of a representing Holland America Line in New Zealand, has been retained as leading Asian city that shares her rich maritime heritage and is prepared to give the New Zealand representative on the Board. this very special ship the prominent waterfront home she so richly deserves. Announcing the 2013 Board following the Council’s AGM in Sydney, ICCA The consortium will lavish many millions of dollars on this magnificent ship to General Manager Brett Jardine said the appointments did not require a restore her to the splendour of her glory days as an icon of the very best the membership vote as all individuals had been nominated unopposed. world has to offer.A number of Asian cities have expressed interest in securing ICCA 2013 Board: (l to r) Tony Smith, Andrew Millmore, Ann Sherry, this historic attraction. Plans for the upgrading of the QE2 also include a shopping Gavin Smith, Chris Hall, Brett Jardine (absent Teresia Fors) mall with the finest world leading brands, a QE2 Café offering meals similar to 18 those served during cruises, three Michelin-starred restaurants, convention and “One Industry, One Voice” meeting facilities. There will also be an onboard maritime museum displaying QE2 memorabilia and her rich history, along with a collection of treasures of The International Cruise Council Australasia has announced it has joined Dubai. with eight other cruise industry associations to form a common organisation Prior to the announcement Chris Frame, Maritime Historian and Author sent which will serve as the voice and advocacy leader of the global cruise industry. 2 0 1 3 this report to Cruising News. Just days before Christmas, news broke in the Under the change, ICCA will become known as Cruise Lines International British ‘Daily Mail’ newspaper, that ‘QE2 had been sold for scrap’, which resulted Association Australasia. Other associations in the new body are North in an outcry of emotion from people all over the globe. With no official QE2 America’s Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), European Cruise Dubai website or contact details, hundreds of concerned people flooded Council (ECC), Asia Cruise Association (ACA), the UK’s Passenger Shipping F E B R U A R Y Cunard Line’s (QE2’s former owner) Facebook and YouTube pages, demanding Association (PSA/ACE), France’s AFCC, Brazil’s ABREMAR, Northwest and that QE2 be saved. This resulted in Cunard Line making a much welcome Canada Cruise Association (NWCCA) and Alaska Cruise Association (ACA). formal statement advising that people should “ignore” the rumours about All Association members will use the name Cruise Lines International QE2’s imminent scrapping.To the best of Cunard’s knowledge, these rumours Association (CLIA) with the appropriate geographic designation, and the are untrue. Fortunately, out of the concern about QE2’s future, a positive story existing association offices will remain in place.The new association has been has been revealed. A consortium known as ‘QE2 London’ have made a £20m created to provide increased benefits and a globally unified voice for cruise bid for QE2, with the plan to return her to the UK and dock her in London. Her lines, travel agents and business partners – all of whom contribute to an proposed location will be opposite the O2 Arena. The ship is to be used as a industry that creates nearly $100 billion in economic impact and more than hotel. It is reported that the QE2’s Dubai owners have rejected this offer, which 753,000 jobs worldwide. fuelled the scrapping rumours, however the ‘QE2 London’ consortium are not For cruise lines, the new association offers a one-stop global resource on giving QE2 up without a fight.Their plan includes a further £40m refurbishment technical and regulatory issues and unified global communication and event and will create over 2,000 jobs in London, leading to support from Britain’s coordination, all of which better leverage cruise lines’ investment in association Chancellor of the Exchequer as well as (globally) well known London Mayor, membership. For travel agents, the new association offers more robust Boris Johnson. Official images of ‘QE2 London’ have been released resulting in partnership programs and networking on a broader scale, while for executive widespread support from the general public for this plan. partners, it provides greater opportunities for customer and business partner It now appears we will see QE2 as a luxury floating hotel in an Asian city in development. the future. CLIA will be governed by a Global Executive Committee, chaired by Howard Frank,Vice Chairman, Chief Operating Officer and Member of the Executive Committee of Carnival Corporation & plc. Christine Duffy, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association, will serve as the President and CEO of the new association, leading a team with responsibilities for international technical and regulatory issues, research, communications, industry relations and public affairs. “We are now truly one industry with one voice,” Mr Frank said. “Given the tremendous growth and continuing globalisation of the cruise industry, this evolution addresses the need to speak and act globally with a unified voice while recognising the importance of local relationships. The new association will play a vital role in proactively shaping the policy and regulatory environments on a global level and promoting cruising with various constituencies through more effective coordination, communication and stakeholder engagement.” Ms Duffy said there were immediate and longer term benefits from the new association that were extensive and wide ranging. “It enables us to better leverage our members’ and partners’ investment in association membership while ‘Seabourn Conversations’ strengthening the industry’s leadership globally on issues such as safety, security, the environment, Seabourn has launched “Seabourn Conversations”, a new concept for onboard sustainability and health,” Ms Duffy said. “It also enrichment and special guest entertainment on its award-winning fleet which allows us to consolidate industry research and will include a stellar lineup of celebrities and guest experts.“Conversation has to leverage promotional events and marketing always been central to the Seabourn experience,” noted Seabourn President communication to facilitate greater consumer Richard Meadows. “Our guests are interesting people with interesting life interest in cruising.” stories, and they really enjoy chatting in the relaxed camaraderie made possible ICCA Chairman Gavin Smith said the new by our small ships.We recruit explorers, heralded chefs, authors and scholars, organisation would take effect immediately, with celebrated performers and renowned experts from every arena of the arts, transitioning, including the introduction of the name change, occurring during sciences, politics and the humanities with particular talents or expertise.” On 2013 and that ICCA General Manager Brett Jardine would continue to report board they will lecture or perform, and take part in Q&A interviews, but on to the Australasian board as well as to the new global CEO, Christine Duffy. Seabourn they also enliven the social scene – and join the conversation.”
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