Recently in Cruises Category

Crystal Cruises announces its 2012 World Cruise, a 94-day epic journey exploring the diverse cultures of the Pacific Rim.  On a rare course round-trip from Los Angeles departing January 18, 2012, Crystal's 17th annual World Cruise will visit 35 ports in five segments, with multiple overnight stays on Crystal Serenity's route through Hawaii, the South Pacific, eastern and western Australia, Indonesia, Southeast Asia, China, Japan, Russia, Alaska, British Columbia and San Francisco. 

For the first time, the ultra-luxury line is including a three-day inclusive overland adventure in Beijing; a maiden call in Newcastle, Australia; and a return to South Korea for the first time since 1994.

Three days in Beijing:  

The three-day inclusive Crystal Overland Adventure to Beijing visits the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven.

Overnight stays:

Two-night stays in Ho Chi Minh, Hong Kong and Beijing, and overnight stays in Honolulu, Sydney, Perth, Singapore, Bangkok, Shanghai, Osaka and Yokohama.

A pre-cruise exclusive Bon Voyage Gala with luxury accommodations in Los Angeles launches the voyage for all full World Cruise guests.

"Travel connoisseurs consider a Crystal World Cruise to be the ultimate luxury vacation, comprised of exotic destinations, one-of-a-kind adventures and special events coupled with Crystal's renowned six-star service, enriching days at sea and attention to detail," says Bill Smith, senior vice president, sales and marketing.  "The shorter overall length of the 2012 voyage makes this grand voyage even more attractive to those trying their first World Cruise experience with Crystal."

A detailed day-by-day is accessible at www.crystalcruises.com.  Crystal is accepting deposits for priority waitlist.  Fares and more details on the wealth of World Cruise amenities and enhancements are expected in the fall 2010.

Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest rated and longest continually-sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, today announced an alluring set of voyages designed specifically to highlight the best of what the South Pacific has to offer - both onboard the enchanting m/s Paul Gauguin and among the many exquisite destinations she visits. With 38 unique itineraries ranging from 7 to 15 nights, the multi-award-winning ship is designed to bring guests closer than ever before to some of the world's most exotic locales. Amidst a backdrop of relaxed luxury, guests will have the opportunity to explore the innate romance, vibrant culture and spectacular natural wonders of Tahiti, the Society Islands, Tuamotus, the Cook Islands, Marquesas, Tonga, Fiji and New Zealand.

"The m/s Paul Gauguin is renowned for her carefully crafted itineraries, and we are thrilled to provide both classic and new voyages in 2010 that will emphasize the magical ambiance of these captivating islands," said David Giersdorf, President and CEO of Paul Gauguin Cruises. "Whether enjoying the many onboard amenities or engaging in a wide array of exotic port calls and adventures, our guests will experience only the best as they forge unforgettable memories."

Professional Travel Agents can assist guests in hand-selecting their dream vacations with exclusive itineraries that feature the best destinations in the South Pacific:

Tahiti & Society Islands

As French Polynesia's westernmost archipelago, the Society Islands are home to well-known gems Tahiti, Raiatea, Taha'a, Bora Bora and Moorea. Believed to have been named by Captain James Cook in honor of the Royal Society, these volcanic islands have enticed artists and mutineers alike for centuries, and continue to allow an escape to their awe-inspiringly verdant peaks, crystalline waters and pristine beaches. Here, guests can explore the region's natural accessories with an extraordinary array of activities, from dolphin-watching at Moorea to snorkeling off Bora Bora to an unforgettable day on the cruise line's own private islet off Taha'a, Motu Mahana. The beauty of these coveted islands is matched only by the warmth of the Polynesian hospitality that awaits.

Cruises highlighting Tahiti and the Society Islands range from 7 to 15 nights and start from $2,995 per person. On these voyages, guests will enjoy Paul Gauguin's exclusive Motu Mahana private retreat and use of the private beach in Bora Bora. Also, depending on length of the cruise, overnight calls at Moorea, Bora Bora or Papeete allow for extended activity options.

The Tuamotus

The largest chain of coral atolls in the world, the Tuamotus boast some of the most renowned snorkeling and diving on earth. As the m/s Paul Gauguin makes anchor at Rangiroa, this sheltered lagoon's dolphins, rays and colorful tropical fish will mesmerize adventurers at heart. Nearby Fakarava also plays host to gorgeous black sand beaches, a black pearl farm and a plethora of rare birds and plants that can be found nowhere else.

Cruises featuring the tropical splendor of the Tuamotus range from 9 to 14 nights and start from just $3,995 per person, featuring overnight calls in Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Moorea and Papeete as well as the private retreat on Motu Mahana and private beach at Bora Bora.

The Marquesas

Cloaked in mystery and wrapped always in a gentle mist, the Marquesas include 12 islands - only six of which are inhabited. Almost completely untouched by European exploration, the isolation of these faraway islands has established an intense pride among the native people and, in turn, a fascinating culture. The wilderness is essentially untapped here - wild stallions run free on Ua Haku, Fatu Hiva boasts only one road, and the purity of thousand-foot waterfalls and gargantuan mountains remains unprecedented.

With only four voyages this year, 14-night cruises featuring the mystic beauty of the Marquesas start from only $5,495 per person. Guests will experience the South Pacific natural history and beauty at its best as they enjoy in-depth exploration of four islands in the Marquesas, Fakarava, and the Society Islands, as well as the Motu Mahana private retreat and Bora Bora private beach visit.

New Zealand

Providing a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, this is the ideal port stop for those looking for a little of both. The last-discovered major landmass and youngest country in the world, New Zealand allows guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant Maori culture as they absorb some of the most distinctive natural features in this corner of the world. Auckland, the country's capital and aptly nicknamed the "City of Sails," is surrounded on three sides by water, the Bay of Islands is known for having one of the bluest skies in the world and Tauranga for its miles of golden-sand beaches - each promising to etch a unique memory in the mind's eye of discerning guests.

Perhaps the most exciting addition for 2010, two exclusive 14-night voyages between Papeete, Tahiti and Auckland will highlight the vibrant culture of New Zealand. These cruises start from just $6,195 per person and feature both the Motu Mahana private retreat and Bora Bora private beach.

The Cook Islands

Comprised of 15 islands, the Cook Islands are characterized by a stark topographical contrast - from the largely flat landscape of Aitutaki to the dramatic peaks and valleys that make up Rarotonga. Here, guests will be endlessly charmed by the natives' strong traditional culture as they are delighted to authentic song, dance, legends and crafts.

Voyages featuring the Cook Islands provide the ultimate combination of island discoveries, and will be featured among just four amazing cruises in 2010, ranging from 11 to 15 nights and starting from only $4,395 per person.

Fiji

The exotic islands of Fiji are one of the South Pacific's most in-demand destinations, with 300 islands featuring soaring mountains, lush vegetation, shimmering turquoise waters and a seemingly endless set of immaculate white sand beaches. Here, guests can fulfill their utmost tropical vacation fantasies as they snorkel in the crystalline water directly off the beach at Malolo Island or discover the lush rain forests just steps away from the vibrant and culture-infused towns of Savusavu or Suva, Fiji's capital.

Just two itineraries will feature the exquisite beauty of Fiji in 2010 with an option of either a 13- and 15-night cruise, starting from $5,695 and $6,545 per person respectively. The m/s Paul Gauguin will cross the International Dateline at sea as guests experience the island ambiance like never before.

Tonga

Gently nudging the International Dateline, the breathtaking Kingdom of Tonga, also known as the "Friendly Islands" is the first country in the world to greet the new day. Unlike most any other travel destination, the waters are so crystal clear that the ocean floor can be seen at an astonishing depth of 130 feet. Guests can indulge themselves by swimming to the majestic Swallows Cave, or discover these amazingly calm waterways by sea kayak. While immersing themselves in paradise onshore, guests can revel in nearly-deserted white sand beaches with only a smattering of tourists.

Cruises highlighting the pristine nature and exquisite beauty of Tonga range from 13 to 15 nights and start from only $5,695 per person.

Early Booking Ensures the Greatest Savings and Best Ever Value Pricing

Guests planning a vacation with Paul Gauguin Cruises can currently take advantage of several opportunities to save, including:

• Early Booking Savings of up to 45 percent, representing savings from $2,500 to $18,650 per person, when booked by July 31, 2009- prices listed above are according to Early Booking Savings discount, plus
• Airfare savings of $1,250 to $2,500 per couple are available on all sailings when booked by July 31, 2009 as a result of Free or Two-for-One Roundtrip Airfare between Los Angeles and Tahiti based upon length of cruise selected, plus
• Paul Gauguin Society Savings provide any past guest of Paul Gauguin Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, The Yachts of Seabourn, Crystal Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club or Windstar Cruises an additional 5 percent off any m/s Paul Gauguin curse fare, representing between $149 to $1,137 off Early Booking Savings fares based on length of cruise and stateroom category, plus
• Families planning a voyage on m/s Paul Gauguin may take advantage of the "third person in stateroom sails free" promotion when booked by July 31, 2009.

All Early Booking Promotional Savings are capacity-controlled, and subject to availability at time of booking.

Reservations are being accepted now and guests are encouraged to book early for the best values, choices of departures and accommodations. Due to the exclusive and limited guest capacity of the vessel, the number of repeat guests, its international appeal and only 38 departures in 2010, early reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations must be made by July 31, 2009 to receive special air promotions from Los Angeles and the "third person in stateroom sails free" promotion. A new 68-page catalog detailing the m/s Paul Gauguin's superb collection of experiences is also now available. Guests should contact their Professional Travel Agent or call 1-800-848-6172 to reserve a cruise or request a brochure. For additional information, please visit www.pgcruises.com.

SOURCE Paul Gauguin Cruises

To celebrate its 20 years as a leader in luxury cruising, Crystal Cruises is launching its 2010 fares with its most dramatic and compelling promotional savings ever. Crystal's gifts to guests offer special anniversary pricing in advance of the vacation, spending credits during the cruise, and birthday programs for big savings in the future.

Guests sailing in 2010 will enjoy:

• "All Inclusive - As You Wish" shipboard credits on every individual voyage in 2010. Most cruises offer $2,000 per couple, all the way up to $10,000 per couple for the full World Cruise;
• 20th Anniversary Fares with up to $3,000 per couple savings on all Mediterranean and Northern Europe voyages booked by December 31, 2009;
• Birthday Bonus! Book your 2010 birthday cruise by December 31, 2009 and save 50% on a future Crystal cruise taken before your next birthday;
• 20th Anniversary events and activities on every 2010 cruise;
• Exclusive events added to four special sailings: the 20th Anniversary President's cruise, the Crystal Society (repeat guest) Reunion cruise, and the cruises aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity that occur during July 20, 2010, which commemorates the anniversary of Crystal's first ship christening.
• Crystal Family Memories program offers a free cruise incentive to celebrate one's own anniversary, birthday or reunion with friends and family.
• Value Collection Fares, Crystal Society Savings and Early Full Payment Savings!

"The sheer amount of fares savings, plus the scope of applicable voyages - even during prime seasons - plus a spending credit on every sailing, makes this the most significant collection of savings we've ever offered," says Gregg Michel, Crystal's president. "Our All Inclusive - As You Wish spending credit on every cruise is the ultimate luxury anniversary gift - to have what you want, when you want. Our guests have the freedom to choose whatever is meaningful to them, from soothing spa treatments to boutique shore excursions to rare wine vintages."

Sailing to 174 ports in 70 countries on 62 voyages, Crystal Cruises' 2010 program will feature a continued emphasis on distinctive destinations and port intensive itineraries including many overnight calls. New offerings include maiden calls in Iran, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia on the World Cruise to new North American cruises to the Sea of Cortez and Hawaii. While most voyages are 11-13 days in length, Crystal has set 15 cruises at 10 days or fewer. Several combination cruises sail from 15 to 115 days without ever repeating a port.

Crystal's 2010 cruise fares begin at $2,165 per person, double occupancy. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the line's website, crystalcruises.com.

SOURCE Crystal Cruises

Today, Cunard Line revealed itinerary and design plans for its newest ocean liner, Queen Elizabeth, which is scheduled to enter service on 12 October 2010, giving one of the oldest names in shipping the strength of operating the youngest fleet in the industry. Queen Elizabeth will be the third new ocean liner to be introduced by Cunard in six years and the second largest Cunard ship ever built.

Queen Elizabeth will feature the unique Cunard traditions linking her with her sisters Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria, and their predecessors. She will also debut some exciting features that will give the vessel her own style and personality, plus all the modern day luxuries Cunard's guests have come to expect.

Likewise, Cunard's renowned White Star Service will be ever-present, ensuring that travellers who seek a return to tradition will enjoy proper, authentic experiences that reflect the line's 170-year heritage of formality and civility at sea.

In announcing the first details of the new ship, Cunard President Carol Marlow said "Cunard holds the distinction of sailing the most famous ocean liners in the world and I'm delighted to announce this magnificent addition to our fleet, which marks the return to our operation of three Queens simultaneously. For more than 70 years there has been an 'Elizabeth' in the fleet and this beautiful modern-day celebration of our past 'Elizabeths' will ensure this proud tradition continues far into this century. Sir Samuel Cunard would be rightly proud."

A Nod to Cunard's History and Heritage
Queen Elizabeth is named after Cunard's first Queen Elizabeth, the famed Cunard ship which was launched in 1938 as the world's largest liner. The new ship will reference her predecessor in interior grandeur, décor and style, but with a modern twist.

From the outside, her distinctive black and red livery will hint at the experience that differentiates a Cunard liner from a modern-day cruise ship. This will be most evident in the ship's adherence to liner decor, with elegant double and triple height public rooms on a grand scale, intricately detailed interiors replete with rich wood panelling, mosaics, gleaming chandeliers, and cool marbles. Art Deco features will pay homage to the original Queen Elizabeth, and will allow the new ship to reflect a more civilized era of travel. And in addition to the extensive Cunard entertainment programme onboard, Queen Elizabeth will offer some unique strands inspired by the era of the first Queen Elizabeth, including country house parties, lively piano evenings and a variety of dancing from that time - including the jitterbug and jive - all within the setting of this 21st century ship.

As a successor to Queen Elizabeth 2, the ship will also reflect this great liner via artwork and memorabilia and will have its very own 'Yacht Club,' named after the lively aft lounge on QE2. Offering guests 270 degree views and the perfect setting for activities and gatherings during the day, it will also double as a dramatic evening venue for cocktails and dancing.

Similarly, through photography, memorabilia and exhibits, the ship will recognize the historic links Cunard has enjoyed with Royalty over the years.

The ship's distinctive public spaces include:

Queens Room - a new take on the traditional Cunard ballroom, with artwork depicting views from royal palaces, and photography of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal family, along with its 1000 square foot dance floor for Grand Balls and Tea Dances at sea.

Garden Lounge - with its magnificent vaulted glass ceiling creating a conservatory feel inspired by the glass houses of Kew Gardens, beneath where guests will enjoy Supper Clubs, and mix dining with dancing under the stars.

Games Deck - Named after the same deck on the original Queen Elizabeth, the Games Deck will offer paddle tennis, croquet and traditional British bowls. (Interestingly, the ship's home port of Southampton is home to the oldest surviving bowls green in the world, first used in 1299.)

Midships Bar - will pay homage to her namesake liner, the first Queen Elizabeth, with memorabilia displayed from that era.

The ship's dining venues include:

Queens Grill and Princess Grill - The ship will also feature the line's celebrated five-star Grills accommodation and dining, with its al fresco dining option on a private deck terrace - first introduced on Queen Victoria - beautiful restaurants, Grills Lounge and sunbathing deck.

The popular Britannia Club, having first debuted aboard Queen Mary 2, features a private dining room with single seating dining for those guests in the top Balcony staterooms.

Britannia Restaurant - Art Deco decorative flourishes create a dramatic backdrop for this two-tiered dining room featuring a sweeping staircase ideal for making a grand entrance.

Queen Elizabeth's Maiden Voyage Season

Queen Elizabeth's maiden 2010 season will consist of six voyages, calling on 32 distinct ports in 18 countries. Her Maiden Voyage will depart from Cunard's homeport of Southampton on 12 October 2010, en route to the Atlantic Isles. The 13-night voyage will call at Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), Lisbon, Seville (Cadiz), Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Tenerife (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), La Palma (Santa Cruz de La Palma) and Madeira (Funchal). Fares start from $2,995 per person.

The ship will then embark on five celebratory inaugural voyages:

Mediterranean Premiere - A 14-day voyage departing Southampton on 25 October 2010 with maiden calls to Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples (for Capri and Pompeii), Cartagena and Gibraltar. Fares start from $2,795 per person.

Aegean Introduction - An 18-day voyage departing Southampton on 8 November 2010 calling on Malaga (for Granada), Malta (Valletta), Venice, Dubrovnik, Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Athens (Piraeus) and Alicante. Fares from $3,295 per person.

Gallic Debut - A five-day voyage departing Southampton on 26 November 2010 with maiden calls to Rotterdam (for Amsterdam), Brussels/Bruges (for Zeebrugge) and Cherbourg. Fares start from $1,195 per person.

Iberian Discovery - A 13-day voyage departing Southampton on 1 December 2010 with calls to Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), Lisbon, Seville (Cadiz), Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Tenerife (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), La Palma (Santa Cruz de La Palma) and Madeira. Fares start from $2,395 per person.

Festive Debut - A 22-day holiday voyage departing Southampton on 14 December 2010 with calls in the Caribbean, including Madeira (Funchal), Tortola, Dominica, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua and Azores Islands (Ponta Delgada). Fares start from $4,795 per person.

Reservations for Queen Elizabeth's maiden voyages and inaugural season will be open for booking on April 2. For more information and to book a voyage, consult your Travel Professional, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to www.cunard.com.

Source: Cunard Line

Master Chef Nobuyuki "Nobu" Matsuhisa is joining Crystal Serenity's July 28 Mediterranean cruise to create a week of menus exclusively for Crystal Cruises guests. Nobu will prepare a week of Omakase dinners - or chef's choice menu - each night in Silk Road, the complimentary shipboard restaurant that has featured his signature cuisine since 2003. Besides cooking, welcoming guests and signing books, the famed restaurateur will demonstrate his culinary techniques, providing a glimpse into the genius - and warmth - behind his dishes.

While Nobu distinctively blends traditional Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences, he is also renowned for creating food that reflects his "kokoro," or heart. Those fortunate to dine in a Nobu or Matsuhisa restaurant while the chef is in the house know that it's common to see him greeting and interacting with his guests.

"Nobu is not only a passionate, creative force, but the consummate host who takes pleasure in connecting with guests," says Toni Neumeister, vice president, food & beverage operations.

Nobu's cuisine - prepared by Nobu-trained chefs - debuted on Crystal Serenity in 2003. With a shared reputation for excellent craftsmanship, creativity and incomparable service, Nobu and Crystal expanded their relationship with the introduction of Silk Road and The Sushi Bar aboard Crystal Symphony in 2008. Both restaurants complete the experience with Nobu's sake and china.

"This is what makes fine dining on a ship so special. You can have an intimate contact with guests that you can't have in a big city," says Matsuhisa.

By May 2009, the multi-Michelin-Star-awarded Matsuhisa will have 25 restaurants worldwide. Zagat called him "the man who may be the best Japanese chef in the world." The Los Angeles Times named him one of America's 10 Best Chefs.

The 12-day itinerary visits Venice, San Marino, Corfu, Rhodes, Bodrum, Istanbul, Mykonos and Athens. Cruise fares start at $6,055 per person, double occupancy. An All Inclusive - As You Wish promotion provides a $2,000 per couple shipboard credit to customize one's cruise experience. The Crystal Assurance Plan offers reduced deposits and cancellation periods, as well as the assurance that guests will be protected at the reduced fare if a stateroom category is later reduced.

SOURCE Crystal Cruises