AmaWaterways Repositions The AmaDagio

Posted on January 27, 2012 by Lillian Africano

AmaWaterways Repositions The AmaDagio to the South of France

AmaWaterways is currently transporting the AmaDagiofrom Rotterdam in the

The AmaDagio moves to France.

: AmaDagio moving to France

Netherlands to Marseille, France to operate 7-night cruises on the Rhone River starting on March 29, 2012. The voyage from its current location in the Netherlands will take the ship through the English Channel, around Spain and Portugal and through the Strait of Gibraltar before it docks in Marseille, France.

Previously, the AmaDagio served the Rhine, Mosel and Danube itineraries.

The AmaDagio has 71 170-square-foot staterooms and four 255-square-foot Junior Suites. Inside the exquisitely decorated staterooms are all the amenities of a fine hotel with white-on-white plush bedding, a cozy sitting area, individually controlled air-conditioning and ample closet space. Eighty percent of all staterooms and Junior Suites feature large French balconies.

As part of AmaWaterway’s 15-day Provence and Spain cruise-tour itinerary, the ship will begin sailing 7-night cruises in France between Lyon and Arles in March through the end of the year. Excursions include the Beaujolais wine region; tours of Roman ruins; and stops at UNESCO World Heritage Site of Avignon and Arles, where Vincent Van Gogh spent much of his life. After the cruise, guests will visit the medieval town of Perpignan, France before ending their voyage in Barcelona.

“The AmaDagio provides the best ship for our guests on this beautiful excursion,” said AmaWaterways President and Co-Owner Rudi Schreiner. “Our guests are like family to us and we want the AmaWaterways luxury travel experience to come to life. ”

The AmaDagio features the latest in onboard entertainment with HD-TVs featuring the Infotainment system offering keyboard with internet access, English language TV stations, a large selection of movies and numerous music programs. Additional amenities include a full-service restaurant, wellness area with glassed-in fitness room, complimentary Wi-Fi and bicycles to explore the small towns and cities along the route.

AmaWaterways’ President Rudi Schreiner will host a President’s Wine Cruise on the March 29 departure with special guests from the Chappellet Winery and the Central Coast Wine Classic of California.

For more information about AmaWaterways, visit the website.

About AmaWaterways

Founded in 2002 by river cruise pioneer Rudi Schreiner, river cruise executive Kristin Karst and founder of Brendan Vacations, Jimmy Murphy, AmaWaterways is the premier river cruise line on Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Main, Mosel and Rhone rivers. Known for its custom-designed ships, extensive complimentary amenities and personalized service levels, AmaWaterways consistently leads the way in river cruising. With destinations traveling through Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia, and new voyages to Africa, the line’s award-winning fleets compliment a variety of travel plans.

Europe destinations include the AmaVerde (2011); AmaBella (2010); AmaLyra (2009); AmaDolce (2009); AmaCello (2008), AmaDante (2008); AmaLegro (2007) and the AmaDagio (2006). In the spring of 2012, AmaWaterways will introduce the new 164-passenger AmaCerto in Europe, joining the AmaVerde and AmaBella in offering an exclusive Twin Balcony design in the majority of staterooms; multiple dining venues; complimentary Internet and Infotainment system, a heated swimming pool or whirlpool on the Sun Deck plus many more unique design elements. There are new announcements coming up for 2013 as well.

In addition to the European destinations, AmaWaterways accommodates travel to Vietnam and Cambodia via the AmaLotus (2011) and La Marguerite (2009) fleets; Russia via the AmaKatarina (2011) fleet and newly featured African tours available on the Zambezi Queen.

AMAWATERWAYS UNVEILS NEW AFRICAN CRUISE AND SAFARI TOUR

Posted on January 26, 2012 by Lillian Africano

Showcasing herds of zebras, grazing elephants and rivers teeming with exotic animals, AmaWaterways’ adventurous African safari river cruises will debut in the summer of 2012. Recently featured on the hit TV show, “Jack Hanna’s Into The Wild,” AmaWaterways explores Africa’s most renowned locations, including South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania up close and personal. Guests will have an opportunity to embark on the Zambezi Queen, a 28-passenger ship designed specifically for safari river cruising to maximize sight seeing.

“Africa is a popular destination spot that provides so many natural activities,” said AmaWaterways’ Executive Vice President and Co-Owner Kristin Karst. “AmaWaterways is always looking for ways to wow our guests and the safari itineraries do not disappoint. Africa’s diverse wildlife, sweeping plains and towering peaks make it the perfect place for an exciting vacation.”

AmaWaterways’ African cruises include the 16-day Stars of Africa, the 16-day African Sunsets and the 19-day Golden Trails of Africa. The tours bring the picturesque cities to life with morning and afternoon game drives, beach picnics and local wine tours. Guests will visit local museums such as the Huguenot Museum or Ngorongoro Archaeological Museum and also experience the sights and sounds of tribal dancing and visits to local villages. Experimental excursions such as tiger fishing, tours of Victoria Falls and evening sky presentations are destined to become favorites for guests.

“I highly recommend the Zambezi Queen. It’s a must. Anyone that’s looking to cross something off a bucket list or a way to travel in Africa, this is the way to go,” said Jack Hanna, travel host. “From dining to the resting area to the accommodations and the wonderful staff and riverboat guides that get you up close to the wildlife, everything is top-notch and beyond five star. I’ve done this for 26 years now and this has been the epitome for me and my family to be on this magnificent vessel.”

For more information about AmaWaterways, please contact your travel agent or visit the company website.

About AmaWaterways

Founded in 2002 by river cruise pioneer Rudi Schreiner, river cruise executive Kristin Karst and founder of Brendan Vacations, Jimmy Murphy, AmaWaterways is the premier river cruise line on Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Main, Mosel and Rhone rivers. Known for its custom-designed ships, extensive complimentary amenities and personalized service levels, AmaWaterways consistently leads the way in river cruising. With destinations traveling through Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia, and new voyages to Africa and Portugal the line’s award-winning fleets compliment a variety of travel plans.

AMA Cruises Africa

Sapphire Princess Enters Drydock to Add Signature Feature

Posted on January 25, 2012 by Lillian Africano

Sapphire Princess Undergoing Makeover

Dramatic Makeover to Include Piazza Atrium, Movies Under the Stars, Alfredo’s Pizzeria

Sapphire Princess is undergoing a dramatic four-week transformation at the Victoria Shipyards drydock in British Columbia. The drydock continues a multi-year fleet renovation process that has brought Princess Cruises’ signature features to most of its ships.

When the ship re-enters service again on February 4, passengers will be able to enjoy a brand-new Piazza atrium with the International Café and Vines wine bar, plus the new Alfredo’s Pizzeria. On the top decks, passengers will enjoy poolside movies on the new giant Movies Under the Stars screen, and an opportunity to relax in the ship’s “pocket of tranquility,” the adults-only Sanctuary.

“It’s been an incredible process over the past few years to retrofit these popular features onto our earlier-introduced ships, but we know our passengers appreciate that they can now find their favorite amenities on virtually any vessel in our fleet,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.

Throughout the drydock, Princess is featuring a daily photo highlight of the transformation on its social media outlets, including Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and Google+.

The many changes to Sapphire Princess include:

New Piazza Atrium – The ship’s atrium space will be redesigned to include this signature Princess feature – a European-inspired social hub of the ship combining always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services. The Piazza will feature the International Café for pastries, fresh panini sandwiches, salads, fresh-baked cookies and a variety of coffee drinks. Passengers will also enjoy a new Vines wine bar offering a selection of more than 30 wines by the glass, plus a selection of tapas and sushi, and a wine shop where passengers can purchase their favorite bottle.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria – Introduced last year aboard Grand Princess, Alfredo’s will expand to its second location on Sapphire Princess. The sit-down pizzeria serves up an enticing menu of freshly prepared, hand-stretched, individual-size pizzas. Named for the line’s master executive chef, Alfredo Marzi, the pizzeria will feature an open kitchen where passengers can watch chefs create their custom-made pies.

Movies Under the Stars – Sapphire Princess will be the final ship to introduce Movies Under the Stars on board. The giant poolside movie screen will showcase feature films, concerts, awards shows and sports events, and passengers can enjoy their viewing on padded loungers under warm, fleece blankets. Complimentary popcorn and other treats enhance the al fresco entertainment experience.

The Sanctuary – Sapphire Princess is also the final ship to receive The Sanctuary, a tranquil retreat exclusively for adults. Added prior to drydock, the new Sanctuary space has already received an enthusiastic welcome from passengers enjoying the enhanced comforts of this peaceful oasis, as Serenity Stewards attend to their every need, offering refreshing beverages, light snacks, pre-loaded MP3 players, and the cooling mist of an Evian atomizer.

Also part of the renovation are several relocated and upgraded venues, including the Art Gallery, Internet Café and Library, and the Photo-Video Gallery. New carpet and upholstery will be installed throughout the ship, and staterooms will feature new flat-screen televisions.

The newly renovated Sapphire Princess will debut on February 4 in Los Angeles when the ship will depart on a 14-day Hawaiian Islands cruise.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company’s website.

Carnival Cruise Lines Revamps Web Site for Meeting, Corporate Event and Incentive Planners

Posted on January 24, 2012 by Lillian Africano

Carnival Cruise Lines’ comprehensive web site for meeting, corporate event and incentive planners has been revamped, with more intuitive, user-friendly features than ever before.

The enhanced site is filled with up-to-date and detailed information on the line’s 23-ship fleet, as well as the benefits and value of hosting a program with Carnival. Meeting, corporate event andincentive planners will be able to easily locate all information needed for planning their next value-driven program utilizing the new and intuitive layout.

“Today, more than ever, meeting, event and incentive planners are being challenged to find the best possible value for their clients and often have shorter lead times in which to do so,” said JoniRein, Carnival’s vice president of worldwide sales. “We wanted to create a user-friendly site so that planners could quickly access information about the many benefits of hosting a program with Carnival,” she added.

Rein noted that the line’s revamped CMI web site offers everything meeting planners need to put together a request for proposal with ease and within a tight deadline.

The web site offers an array of new features including detailed information about the Carnival fleet and product offerings such as accommodations, dining, activities, entertainment, destinationsand itineraries.

There is also content dedicated to meetings and events, incentive groups, customization options, full ship charters, individual incentives and information on Carnival’s Corporate University, a series of professional enrichment seminars offeredin conjunction with the line’s corporate training department. In addition, planners may complete a request for proposal directly on the site.

The additional content and improved site navigation were created based on feedback received from clients and Carnival’s dedicated team of nearly 20 charters, meetings and incentive professionals.

For more information about hosting a program with Carnival, visit www.carnivalmeetings.com or call 800-278-0388.

Carnival Corporation & plc Announces Comprehensive Audit and Review of Safety and Emergency Response Across All Its Cruise Lines

Posted on January 23, 2012 by Lillian Africano

Following the tragic Costa Concordia accident, Carnival Corporation & plc, parent companyof Costa Cruises and nine leading cruise lines around the world, today announced a comprehensive audit and review of all safety and emergency response procedures across all of the company’s cruise lines.

Carnival Corporation & plc and the cruise industry as a whole have maintained an excellent safety record over the years. “However, this tragedy has called into question our company’s safety and emergencyresponse procedures and practices,” said Micky Arison, chairman and CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc. “While I have every confidence in the safety of our vessels and the professionalism of our crews, this review will evaluate all practices and procedures tomake sure that this kind of accident doesn’t happen again.”

The review is being led by Captain James Hunn, a retired U.S. Navy Captain and currently the company’s senior vice president of Maritime Policy & Compliance. Following a 32-year career in the Navy, Hunnhas held senior positions at Carnival Corporation & plc for nearly a decade, focusing on corporate-wide efforts to establish maritime policy standards, while overseeing the company’s health, environmental, safety, and security practices.

Hunn and senior health and safety executives from each of the lines will review all safety and emergency response policies and procedures, officer and crew training and evaluation, bridge management andcompany-wide response and support efforts. Hunn will report to the Health, Environment, Safety & Security Committee of the Board, and to Howard Frank, vice chairman and chief operations officer of Carnival Corporation & plc.

In addition, the Health, Environment, Safety & Security Committee is engaging outside industry-leading experts in the fields of emergency response organization, training and implementation to conduct anaudit of all of the company’s emergency response and safety procedures and to conduct a thorough review of the Costa Concordia accident.

Frank said, “This company-wide initiative will identify lessons learned and best practices to further ensure the security and safety of all of our passengers and crew.”

Carnival Corporation & plc also supports the call for a comprehensive evaluation of safety regulations by the International Maritime Organization, which was requested earlier today by the Cruise Lines InternationalAssociation.

Windstar’s New Islands of Italy Voyages

Posted on January 20, 2012 by Lillian Africano

Windstar’s New Islands of Italy Voyage Features Some of Europe’s Most Exclusive Islands

Seven-Day Sailings Rome to Rome

Windstar Cruises, which operates a fleet of three luxury sailing yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most treasured destinations, offers a new Islands of Italy voyage featuring some of Europe’s most exclusive islands.

Discover Italy as you never have before, experiencing it as locals do on Windstar’s Islands of Italy voyages. Cruising round-trip from Rome, see the best of the past and present. Visit the island of Ischia, the ruins of Pompeii near Sorrento, stunning waters and stalwart citadels of Lipari, sail around the Stromboli Volcano in the Tyrrhenian Sea, enjoy the sun-kissed charms of Port Cervo on Sardinia, and Corsica’s beautiful Porto Vecchio where ancient cobblestone streets host fashionable shops and cafes.

Islands of Italy sailings depart April 21, 28; August 4; October 6, 2012. As a featured itinerary in Windstar’s Europe Sail & Stay Packages, guests can receive two-for-one cruise fares starting from $2,199 per person, double occupancy, plus two free hotel nights in Rome, when they book an Islands of Italy voyage by February 24, 2012.

Guests can upgrade their Sail & Stay Package to a Windstar Land Package before or after their Islands of Italy voyage. The Land Package includes multi-day, private tours of top cultural and historical venues in Rome including Venice Square, Imperial Palaces, Coliseum, Circus Maximus, Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Square of St. Peter. A professional, English-speaking tour guide, private transportation, and tour entrance fees are also included in the package.

Shore excursions offered on Islands of Italy which can be booked in advance include:

· Ischia, Italy: Ischia Island Tour – Discover resort areas of Ischia Porto and Casamicciola, charming Lacco Ameno, seafront promenade of Forio, views of the Sant’Angelo fishing village, and the Castello Argonese.

· Lipari, Italy: Lipari Highlights – Visit a castle with mighty Spanish walls, archeological sites, the Aeolian Archeological Museum and view the infamous Faraglioni rocks.

· Porto Cervo, Italy: Costa Smeralda – Tour the Emerald Coast and explore the archaeological site of Coddu Vecchiu and the small village of the Baia Sardinia.

· Porto Cervo, Italy: Costa Smeralda and Wine Tasting – Begin with wine tasting at Vigne Surrau, a vineyard located on a hillside above the sea, explore Baja Sardinia, and enjoy a guided tour of Porto Cervo.

· Porto Vecchio, France: Bonifacio Scenic Sights and Little Train – See the medieval city of Bonifaco, enjoy a ride on the Little Train to view the Citadel and Old Genoese town, and finish with a guided walk.

· Sorrento, Italy: Boat Tour to Positano – Take a private motorboat ride along the coast to Positano, once a sleepy fishing village and home to renowned artists, which feature Moorish-style houses set in luxurious gardens.

· Sorrento, Italy: Pompeii – Journey to the ruins of Pompeii, perfectly preserved since the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79 and gain insight into lives of ancient Romans.

All fares listed are per person, US dollars, cruise only, based on double occupancy in Category B and include non-discountable amounts. Government fees and taxes are additional ($35-$300 per person).

Two-for-one cruise fares listed are based on 50 percent of published full cruise fares on select sailings. Two-night complimentary hotel offer is available per booked cabin, is applicable on select sailings and includes one complimentary transfer to or from the yacht, tips, gratuities, taxes and luggage-handling fees.

Offer is valid on new bookings only on select departures and subject to availability. Offer may not be combinable with any other promotional offer or discount. Offers are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn or modified at Windstar’s discretion at any time. Certain restrictions apply. Cancellation penalties may apply, please see brochure for details. Offer expires February 24, 2012.

Classical Music Cruises Onboard the MS EUROPA in 2012

Posted on January 19, 2012 by Lillian Africano

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises to Offer Guests Established Talent and Young Stars During the Ocean Sun and Stella Maris Classical Music Festivals at Sea

The highest ranked cruise ship in the world, according to the 2012 Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships[1] Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ MS EUROPA is offering guests two world-class music festivals in 2012.

The “Ocean Sun Festival,” the only classical music festival on the high seas, will feature internationally acclaimed classical music stars performing on board, as well as exclusive concerts at historical sites ashore.

Additionally, the “Stella Maris“ International Vocal Competition will bring together up-and-coming young singers from the most renowned opera houses in the world to perform and compete on board a Middle East and Africa itinerary. These two music cruises are the highlights of a total of nine music cruises aboard the EUROPA in 2012.

Now in its sixth year, the “Ocean Sun Festival” has been compared to the prestigious Festival del Sole in Napa Valley, California and the Tuscan Sun Festival in Italy. For an added dimension to this musical experience, international music critics will offer lectures along the route. On board, “Ocean Sun Festival” guests will experience the breathtaking violinist Janine Jansen, the aspiring pianist Igor Levit and renowned soprano vocalist Marlis Petersen.

This musical voyage continues ashore with the soloists joining the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra in Bergen, Norway. While the classical music concerts are the highlights of this itinerary, the EUROPA will glide through the picturesque Norway fjords, with stops in the charming and multifaceted cities of Bergen and Oslo. This 12-day itinerary from August 12-24, 2012, starts at $6,670 per person/based on double occupancy for a suite.

In cooperation with the prestigious international opera houses, the EUROPA will also be hosting their fourth annual classical music competition at sea, “Stella Maris.” Under the direction of Canadian tenor Michael Schade, a jury of famous personalities in the classical music field will judge the top talent represented by international opera houses.

The distinguishing feature of “Stella Maris” is that the audience determines the winner of the cash prize worth €15,000. This prize, generous compared to others in the world of classical music, is provided by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

The jury will decide on the recipients of the additional prizes, which include: a guest engagement at an international opera house, a concert, and a test recording with Deutsche Grammophon. The competition will occur on board an 18-day Middle Eastern and Africa cruise through the Indian Ocean from November 7-25, 2012, making stops in Dubai, Oman, the Seychelles and Madagascar this November. The itinerary starts at $9,150 per person/based on double occupancy for a suite.

For information on these itineraries visit the Hapag-Lloyd website or call one of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ sales agencies below.

In the USA and Canada:

Air Travel Marketing Services, Inc. 1-800-888-0200

Euro Lloyd Travel Group, Inc. 1-800-782-3924

Kartagener Associates, Inc. 1-877-445-7447

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE TO SAIL 27 CRUISES TO CANADA AND NEW ENGLAND IN 2012

Posted on January 18, 2012 by Lillian Africano

ms Veendam repositions to the growing cruising region, increasing the line’s capacity by 17 percent

Canada and New England itineraries are known for their historic seaports, stunning scenery and culinary delights, and in 2012 Holland America Line will offer 27 cruises on three ships — ms Maasdam, ms Eurodam and ms Veendam — to ports along the eastern coast of North America.

Scheduled May through October, the itineraries range from seven to 15 days and also visit the region during the height of the fall foliage display as summer turns to autumn and leaves change to vibrant hues of red, orange and gold. Veendam repositions to the region in 2012, increasing Holland America Line’s capacity and making it possible for more travelers to experience one of nature’s most impressive showings.

“Our Canada/New England itineraries are always popular, and by adding Veendam to the area during the fall foliage season more travelers are able to see this beautiful region during this special time of year,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Maasdam is there throughout the summer as well, making it the perfect cruise for friends, couples, solo travelers and families looking to explore an interesting travel destination that’s close to home.”

Maasdam begins the season with a 15-day northbound cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to Montréal, Québec, Canada. During the voyage, guests will visit Charleston, S.C.; Newport, R.I.; Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Gaspé and Sept-Îles, Saguenay; and Québec City, Québec, before arriving at Montréal. Highlights include an overnight call at Québec City, Holland America Line’s highest rated port of call, and the premium line’s only call at Sept-Îles this season.

From May 12 through the Sept. 29 departure, Maasdam offers 15 seven-day sailings between Montréal and Boston, with calls at Québec City, Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax and Bar Harbor. The itineraries feature scenic cruising along the St. Lawrence River and make an ideal option for families looking to take a summer cruise without traveling abroad.

Maasdam concludes the season with a 13-day sailing Oct. 6 from Montréal to Fort Lauderdale. Ports of call include Québec City, Saguenay, Baie-Comeau, Gaspé, Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax and Port Canaveral, Florida.

During the height of the 2012 fall foliage season, Eurodam will sail three 10-day cruises in September and October between New York and Québec City. The ship will call at Newport, Rhode Island; Gloucester (Boston), Mass.; Bar Harbor, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown and Saguenay. The itinerary also features an overnight call at Québec City and scenic cruising along Saguenay Fjord.

On Oct. 14 Eurodam will depart on a 13-day cruise from Québec City to Fort Lauderdale. The cruise begins with an overnight aboard ship in Québec City and then sails for Saguenay, Baie-Comeau, Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax, Bar Harbor, Gloucester (Boston) and Newport.

Veendam begins its Canada/New England season with a 13-day cruise from New York to Montréal Sept. 2. The ship will call at Gloucester, Bar Harbor, St. John, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown, Gaspé, Saguenay and Québec City along the way. Guests on this itinerary will enjoy an overnight call at Québec City before arriving at Montréal.

In September and October, Veendam will sail five seven-day itineraries between Montréal and Boston. Ports of call include Québec City, Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax and Bar Harbor, with scenic cruising along the St. Lawrence River.

Engaging Experiences On Board and On Shore

Guests can maximize their experience in Canada/New England with optional shore excursions, from history and culture to wilderness and cuisine. While onboard, guests can enjoy enriching activities such as cooking demonstrations at the Culinary Arts Center, pampering at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon or learning the latest online techniques in the Digital Workshop powered by Windows.

For seven-day Maasdam and Veendam itineraries, guests can combine two seven-day sailings for an extended 14-day roundtrip journey, allowing extra time ashore to hunt for antiques, explore charming fishing towns, learn about local history and sample the region’s fresh seafood. Fares on 14-day Collectors Cruises reflect up to 10 percent savings.

Fares for Maasdam’s Canada and New England cruises begin at $749; Eurodam’s cruise fares begin at $1,499 and Veendam’s fares start from $1,349. Guests looking for a family-friendly vacation can book a seven-day cruise date with reduced third and fourth fares. All fares are per person, double occupancy.

For more information and cruise fares, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit the Holland America website.

Louis Cruises Offers Beverage Package Discounts

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Lillian Africano

Louis Cruises Offers 15 Percent Savings on Pre-Purchased Beverage Packages; Commissionable to Travel Agents at Seven Percent

Louis Cruises is now offering a variety of beverage packages that can be pre-booked prior to departure featuring savings of 15 percent off the on-board beverage package pricing including the All-inclusive Drinks Package and the Non-alcoholic Beverages Package.

In addition, travel agents can earn seven percent commission on the All-Inclusive Drinks Package and the Non-alcoholic Beverages Package beverage packages when purchased prior to departure, garnering them earn extra commission from add-on sales.

“These beverage packages are commissionable to travel agents at seven percent and are a great way to enhance the onboard cruise experience for clients. By paying just one set price up front, these pre-purchase beverage options help travelers budget for their overall cruise expenses and eliminate any concern about beverage bills accruing during their vacation,” said Nicholas Filippidis, Director of Product Development in North America for Louis Cruises. “They are a win-win for both travel professionals and their clients. Not only are Louis Cruises’ All-inclusive Drinks Packages commissionable to agents, but they are also sold at a discounted price if pre-purchased so agents can pass along additional savings to their cruise clients.”

Cruisers can choose the beverage package that suits them best. Whether looking for the best package for adults or children, travelers can enjoy the fantastic savings for many toasts on board. The two beverage options that can be pre-booked at a 15 percent discount are: the All-inclusive Drinks Package at $31.00 per day, the Non-alcoholic Beverages Package at $16.90 per day. Prices detailed reflect the 15 percent savings for pre-purchasing each of the aforementioned packages. In addition, Louis Cruises offers a Soda Package for children for only $12.70 per day. The Soda package for children is not commissionable.

Listed below are the many cruise choice drinks that you can enjoy in all the bars, lounges and restaurant on board with each respective Louis Cruises “Drinks Unlimited” package:

The All-inclusive Drinks package includes: Cruise choice brands of Whisky, Vodka, Gin, Rum, Tequila, Brandy; All the previously detailed cruise choice brands of alcoholic beverages can be served with choice of mixer (cola, lemonade, juices, etc.); Soft-drinks served by the glass – cola, light cola, lemonade, orangeade, all mixers and fruit juices; Regular tea & coffee as per bar menu; Draught beer & cruise choice beers (by the can); All non-alcoholic cocktails; Selection of alcoholic cocktails depicted on the bar list for free; Port wine, sherry, aperitifs and liqueurs; Red, rose & white cruise choice wine by the glass including sparkling wine; Special coffee of the day; Cocktail of the day; Selection of flavored ice cream 2 scoops each portion, obtained from pool bar during opening hours, does not include individually wrapped ice creams; Bottle of wine or champagne purchased will include a discount on listed price (cruise choice not included); Large bottle of mineral water will include a discount on listed price; Small bottle of water is included.

Non-alcoholic Beverages Package includes: soft drinks by the glass (cola, light cola and lemonade), and fruit juice. This also includes a selection of flavored ice creams 2 scoops per portion, obtained from the pool bar during opening hours; this does not include individually wrapped ice creams. Bottle of mineral water will include a discount on listed price (bottle/glass of mineral water is not included in the package).

About Louis Group

Louis Group is the leading tourism organization in the Eastern Mediterranean, actively involved in cruising as well as the hotel industry.

The Louis fleet comprises of 9 cruise ships, operating cruises from the ports of Piraeus (Greece) and Limassol (Cyprus). From the port of Piraeus, Louis Cruises sails to the Greek islands and Turkey and from Limassol to the Eastern Mediterranean, the Adriatic and the Black Sea. Two of the cruise ships of Louis Cruises are chartered to Thomson Cruises of TUI Travel plc. Louis Cruises is a member of CLIA.

Carnival Corporation & plc Required Announcement on Financial Impact of Costa Concordia

Posted on January 16, 2012 by Lillian Africano

Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE: CUK) today commented on the financial impact resulting from the grounding of the Costa Concordia.

“At this time, our priority is the safety of our passengers and crew,” said Micky Arison, Carnival Corporation & plc chairman and CEO. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic event and our hearts go outto everyone affected by the grounding of the Costa Concordia and especially to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. They will remain in our thoughts and prayers,” Arison said.

In accordance with financial disclosure requirements, the company provides the following information:

The company has insurance coverage for damage to the vessel with a deductible of approximately $30 million as well as insurance for third party personal injury liability subject to an additional deductible of approximately $10 million for this incident. The company self-insures for loss of use of the vessel.

A damage assessment review of the vessel is currently being undertaken to determine how long it will be out of service. The vessel is expected to be out of service for the remainder of our currentfiscal year if not longer.

For the fiscal year ending November 30, the impact to 2012 earnings for loss of use is expected to be approximately $85-$95 million or $0.11-$0.12 per share. In addition, the company anticipates other costs to the business that arenot possible to determine at this time.

Carnival Corporation & plc, which is the parent company of Costa Cruises, is traded on both the New York and London Stock Exchanges.

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Cruises, Special Cruise Deals, Cruise Lines, Cruse Destinations, Luxury Cruises…Everything About Cruises by Travel Author/Editor Lillian Africano