21ST YEAR OF PUBLICATION ESTABLISHED 1998

AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 114 PRICE $9.35 (INCL GST)

Garden Island Rejected as Terminal by Federal Government / NSW Government to prepare business case to develop Port Botany as cruise ship hub – Page 3

Our Reunion with Aegean Odyssey – Page 30

Norwegian Bliss – the sixteenth ship of NCL’s young and modern fleet

Royal Invests in Silversea Cruises – Page 5

Featuring a comprehensive coverage of Global Cruising for Cruise Passengers, the Trade and the Industry www.cruisingnews.com ® sailing from Sydney, September 2018

New Zealand & New Zealand Majestic Princess® new ship Majestic Princess® new ship

Sydney Sydney South Pacific AUSTRALIA Ocean AUSTRALIA South Pacific Auckland Auckland Ocean Tauranga Tauranga Tasman TASMANIA Sea NEW ZEALAND Wellington Tasman NEW ZEALAND Wellington Hobart Sea Akaroa Akaroa Fiordland National Park Dunedin Fiordland National Park Dunedin Scenic cruising (Port Chalmers) Scenic cruising (Port Chalmers)

Most Popular Most Popular 12 Nights Interior* Balcony* Mini-suite* 11 Nights Interior* Balcony* Mini-suite* YOUR FARES YOUR FARES PP FROM* $2,159 $2,799 $3,069 PP FROM* $1,989 $2,689 $3,239 ONBOARD ONBOARD SPENDING SPENDING MONEY PER $100 $200 MONEY PER $100 $200 STATEROOM^ STATEROOM^

PLUS a specialty dining voucher if you book a mini-suite or suite± PLUS a specialty dining voucher if you book a mini-suite or suite±

Quad share from $1,389 per person< Quad share from $1,279 per person<

27 SepAB, 5 NovAB, 24 Nov, 10 OctCD, 23 OctC, 5 NovAD, 2018 DEPARTURES 2018 DEPARTURES 30 DecAB 6 DecBD, 18 DecB 12 JanA, 25 Jan, , 2019 DEPARTURES 18 FebBD, 2019 DEPARTURES 6 Feb 2 Mar 13 MarAB * Fares are per person twin share based on 11 night 2/3/19 sailing Higher fares may apply to other departures * Fares are per person twin share based on 12 night 6/2/19 sailing Higher fares may apply to other departures A 9 night duration and itinerary varies B 12 night duration and itinerary varies A 13 night duration and itinerary varies B Itinerary varies: operates in reverse order C 13 night duration and itinerary varies D Itinerary varies: operates in reverse order

Hurry! Offer ends 31 August 2018

BOOK NOW! Visit your travel agent | 1300 385 631 | www.princess.com

*Fares are cruise only, per person, in AUD, in complete twin accommodation based on the lead category for each stateroom type, inclusive of all discounts, taxes, fees and port expenses (which are subject to change). Supplements apply for other stateroom categories. Fares based on specific departure dates only. Higher fares may apply to other departure dates listed. Offer ends 31 August 2018 unless sold out prior. has set aside a reasonable number of staterooms which are available at these fares. Once these staterooms are sold, fares may revert to a higher fare, but may also be discounted. Valid for new bookings and not combinable with any other offer. All offers are subject to availability. ~Comparison launch fares are based on fares launched into the market from April 2017. ^Onboard spending money is per stateroom as marked on selected itineraries within this publication only and is applied to the first 2 passengers in a stateroom. Onboard spending money is not transferable, non-refundable, not redeemable for cash and cannot be used at the medical centre or casino. ± Free specialty dining voucher is available per stateroom if you book a mini-suite or suite for 7 nights and longer cruises. This offer is strictly limited and subject to availability. Where applicable, guests receive a complimentary dinner for two in one of our onboard specialty restaurants. Restaurants vary by ship. Restaurant and reservation time will be assigned by Princess Cruises. This offer does not apply to special dining events or packages that take place in specialty restaurants. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not included in this offer, and are available at an additional cost. Dining gratuities are included in Dining offer. It will be at the guest’s discretion as to which guests in the booking redeem the offers. Free specialty dining offer is non-transferable and is not redeemable for cash. Princess reserves the right to substitute this offer for onboard spending money of equal value which will expire if not used by 10:00 PM on the last evening of the cruise.

AUGUST 2018 ISSUE 114 PRICE $9.35 (INCL GST) BREAKING NEWS Garden Island Rejected as Cruise Ship Terminal by Federal Government / NSW Government to prepare business case to develop Port ® Botany as cruise ship hub – Page 3 Vital Need for Port Facilities MAJESTIC PRINCESS for Sydney Recognised At long last decisions have been made regarding sailing from Sydney, September 2018 Sydney’s lack of infrastructure for cruise ships. The Our Reunion with Aegean Odyssey – Page 30 Federal Government has made it clear that Garden

Norwegian Bliss – the sixteenth ship of NCL’s young and modern fleet Island will remain a Naval base and the NSW New Zealand Australia & New Zealand Government’s much anticipated Cruise Development Plan recognises the vital need for port facilities to support continued cruise industry growth and its Majestic Princess® new ship Majestic Princess® new ship increasing contribution to the national and state tourism economy.

Sydney Royal Caribbean Invests in Silversea Cruises – Page 5 The NSW Government will work with the industry and other stakeholders Sydney South Pacific AUSTRALIA Ocean Featuring a comprehensive coverage of Global Cruising AUSTRALIA for Cruise Passengers, the Trade and the Industry www.cruisingnews.com to: investigate options to increase the capacity of Sydney’s existing berths, in South Pacific Auckland Auckland Ocean particular for hosting Large and Mega Cruise Ships to maximise the number of Tauranga Front Cover Photos of Aegean Odyssey Tauranga Tasman TASMANIA Sea (John Treacy) & Norwegian Bliss (NCL) passengers able to come into the Overseas Passenger Terminal, including the NEW ZEALAND Wellington Tasman NEW ZEALAND Wellington Hobart Sea Akaroa booking system as well as enhancing the utilisation of berths at White Bay Cruise Akaroa Fiordland National Park Dunedin Prinsendam & Oriana Moving On...... 5 Terminal, determine the feasibility of using Hayes Dock, Port Botany, as an Fiordland National Park Dunedin Scenic cruising (Port Chalmers) Scenic cruising (Port Chalmers) Sun Princess Calls Perth Home...... 8 interim terminal once a long-term solution is confirmed and assess the viability Most Popular Most Popular NCL Order...... 10 of a third Sydney cruise ship terminal by preparing a strategic business case that 12 Nights Interior* Balcony* Mini-suite* 11 Nights Interior* Balcony* Mini-suite* Astor Farewell...... 14 evaluates two of the sites recommended at Port Botany Molineaux Point and YOUR FARES YOUR FARES Golden Princess Returns...... 16 Yarra Bay. PP FROM* $2,159 $2,799 $3,069 PP FROM* $1,989 $2,689 $3,239 ONBOARD ONBOARD Coming to Australia...... 18 SPENDING SPENDING MONEY PER $100 $200 MONEY PER $100 $200 MSC Fleet Expansion ...... 20 STATEROOM^ STATEROOM^

This Edition This Symphony of the Seas Report...... 36 PLUS a specialty dining voucher if you book a mini-suite or suite± PLUS a specialty dining voucher if you book a mini-suite or suite± On Board Sea Princess ...... 44 River Cruise News...... 52 Quad share from $1,389 per person< Quad share from $1,279 per person<

27 SepAB, 5 NovAB, 24 Nov, 10 OctCD, 23 OctC, 5 NovAD, 2018 DEPARTURES 2018 DEPARTURES 30 DecAB 6 DecBD, 18 DecB 12 JanA, 25 Jan, , 2019 DEPARTURES 18 FebBD, 2019 DEPARTURES 6 Feb 2 Mar 13 MarAB * Fares are per person twin share based on 11 night 2/3/19 sailing Higher fares may apply to other departures * Fares are per person twin share based on 12 night 6/2/19 sailing Higher fares may apply to other departures A 9 night duration and itinerary varies B 12 night duration and itinerary varies A 13 night duration and itinerary varies B Itinerary varies: operates in reverse order C 13 night duration and itinerary varies D Itinerary varies: operates in reverse order

(Taken from the NSW Cruise Development Plan July 2018) Azamara Journey The NSW Government has announced an investigation of opportunities at arrives in London Coffs Harbour with other potential ports including Yamba, Port Stephens, Port 20 Macquarie and South West Rocks. Throughout the investigation, the NSW Government will liaise with industry, local councils, community groups and business owners to explore opportunities and receive feedback at each potential site. CLIA Australasia Chair, Sture Myrmell, said the industry would work constructively with the NSW Government in relation to the feasibility studies required for the development of an additional cruise facility. “Our industry has been advocating for a solution to Sydney’s infrastructure constraints for some years and having a clear plan of action with the NSW Government is a step forward to achieve greater certainty and a platform for growth. The Government’s plan to support regional ports to improve as cruise destinations, and their New Celebrity Terminal commitment to work with the Federal Government to remove regulatory barriers 20 affecting the cruise industry were also positive developments.” Mr Myrmell said. The report also states the time taken to conduct the feasibility studies and any subsequent construction of a third terminal in Sydney may result in lost opportunities to the economy, particularly during the peak season. It was also noted that it is likely that Large and Mega Cruise Ships will decrease visitation Hurry! Offer ends 31 August 2018 to Sydney in favour of other fit-for-purpose ports such as Brisbane and Melbourne until the situation is resolved. Some passengers, particularly from overseas, will miss the opportunity to cruise BOOK NOW! Visit your travel agent | 1300 385 631 | www.princess.com into and out of the iconic Sydney Harbour. Happy Cruising! *Fares are cruise only, per person, in AUD, in complete twin accommodation based on the lead category for each stateroom type, inclusive of all discounts, taxes, fees and port expenses (which are subject to change). Supplements apply for other stateroom categories. Fares based on specific departure dates only. Higher fares may apply to other departure dates listed. Offer ends 31 August 2018 unless sold out prior. Princess Cruises has set aside a reasonable number of staterooms which First look at Iona John Treacy are available at these fares. Once these staterooms are sold, fares may revert to a higher fare, but may also be discounted. Valid for new bookings and not combinable with any other offer. All offers are subject to availability. ~Comparison launch 28 fares are based on fares launched into the market from April 2017. ^Onboard spending money is per stateroom as marked on selected itineraries within this publication only and is applied to the first 2 passengers in a stateroom. Onboard spending money is not transferable, non-refundable, not redeemable for cash and cannot be used at the medical centre or casino. ± Free specialty dining voucher is available per stateroom if you book a mini-suite or suite for 7 nights and longer cruises. This offer is strictly limited and subject to availability. Where applicable, guests receive a complimentary dinner for two in one of our onboard specialty restaurants. Restaurants vary by ship. Restaurant and reservation time will be assigned by Princess Cruises. This offer does not apply to special dining events or packages that take place in specialty restaurants. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not included in this offer, and are available at an additional cost. Dining gratuities are included in Dining offer. It will be at the guest’s discretion as to which guests in the booking redeem the offers. Free specialty dining offer is non-transferable and is not redeemable for cash. Princess reserves the right to substitute this offer for Plus the latest news and Proudly Published in Australia by John Treacy & Associates. onboard spending money of equal value which will expire if not used by 10:00 PM on the last evening of the cruise.

Netherlands

Amsterdam Rhine Cologne Marksburg Main-Danube Canal Bamberg Scenic Jasper, Wachau Valley Rüdesheim Nuremberg Würzburg Danube Passau Slovakia Regensburg Dürnstein Melk Vienna 14 FREE Salzburg Jewels of Europe Austria Budapest Atlantic FLIGHTSOcean STC Hungary 15 Day Cruise Amsterdam > Budapest TO EUROPE*

Experience Europe from a luxurious new perspective as you cruise the magnificent waterways of the Rhine, Main and ALL YEAR Danube rivers. Spain ALL CRUISES Scenic’s focus on innovation and design ensures we are the luxury class leader, delivering the ultimate in European river ALL SUITES cruising. You’ll find each suite complemented by stylish amenities, state of the art facilities, butler service and of course, all-inclusive Royal Panorama Suite, Scenic Amber dining and beverages, Wi-Fi, even transfers and gratuities. From Amsterdam’s famous canals, enchanting Vienna and breathtaking Budapest, to the magnificent castles and palaces that line these waterways, you will get a taste of the very best of Europe. With our exclusive signature Scenic Enrich program, delve deeper into the region’s history with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including a private concert in Palais Liechtenstein, and a night of medieval entertainment in Marksburg Castle. Portobellos, Scenic Jasper From only $6,695*pp all-inclusive.

*Conditions apply. Price and offer based on per person, twin share in AUD, are strictly limited and subject to availability until sold out. 2018 For new bookings only and are not combinable. Free Flights included 138 128 SCENIC.COM.AU/EUROPE offer is based on an airline of Scenic’s choice. Airfares must be booked through Scenic. From price include $300pp Early Payment Discount or visit SCENIC.COM.AU/AGENTS for your nearest Scenic agent where full payment is due by 31 Oct 2018. Price based on STC061119.1 in a category E suite (no balcony). Price correct as of 02/07/18. For full QUOTE ‘SNPR4957’ WHEN BOOKING terms and conditions visit scenic.com.au/terms. ABN 85 002 715 602. SNMA278. 4 April 2018

SNMA278 CruisingNews_FP_ERC_STC.indd 1 5/7/18 2:50 pm Prinsendam to Leave the Fleet To be renamed – AMERA has announced that Prinsendam has been sold and will leave its fleet 1 July 2019 and transfer to the German cruise company Phoenix Reisen. Following the sale, the 37,983- ton, 835-guest Prinsendam is being 2019 EUROPE RIVER CRUISING chartered back to Holland America Line to continue sailing its planned EARLYBIRDS OUT NOW voyages through 1 July 2019. Prinsendam's itineraries from 1 July 2019 onward are scheduled to be on delivering the programming and Seabourn Sun in 1999. In 2002 the ship assimilated by Rotterdam, Volendam innovations that our guests are asking joined the Holland America Line fleet and Veendam. Holland America for, we remain focused on exceeding and was renamed Prinsendam. Line is reaching out to booked guests guest expectations on every cruise Phoenix Reisen is a Germany-based and their travel professionals to re- and will continue to offer the unique accommodate guests on these cruises. itineraries that Prinsendam sailed on our travel agency that also operates a fleet of cruise ships and first began "Prinsendam has proudly served our other, smaller ships." guests since 2002, and we share in the Prinsendam was built in 1988 as Royal operating cruises under its own brand fondness that many of our loyal cruisers Viking Sun for Royal . The ship in 1988. Today, its ships include ms have for this special ship," said Orlando was operated by from 1994 Amadea, ms Artania, ms Albatros and Ashford, president of Holland America through 1998 and then transferred to ms Deutschland, and the company also Line. "As we look to the future and focus , where it became operates approximately 50 riverboats.

Oriana Will Leave the P&O Fleet in August 2019 The mid-sized ship, which joined the with us. Those guests who have sailed cruise line in 1995, will bid farewell on Oriana will then be able to enjoy following an as yet unannounced holidays on Aurora and Arcadia, both special final sailing. The news comes as of which are exclusively for adults and P&O prepares to welcomes its newest have a very similar on board feel, and ship, Iona, in 2020, and sister ship in experience the re-vitalisation taking Netherlands 2022. place over the next year.” Amsterdam P&O Cruises senior vice president, Paul Meanwhile, P&O will expand and Rhine Germany Cologne Ludlow, said: “Oriana is an original, and introduce new additions to its ship and Marksburg Main-Danube Canal Bamberg a much loved P&O Cruises ship. Whilst shore guest experience across the fleet Scenic Jasper, Wachau Valley Rüdesheim and Ventura. we will miss her, her departure will allow from next year. Nuremberg Aurora will be refitted next spring, prior Würzburg Danube us to focus on our remaining mid-sized Passau The programme will cover three areas to her re-launch as a ship exclusively for Dürnstein Slovakia Regensburg and larger ships as the fleet expands. of investment in shore excursions, dining adults, when new cabins will be added Melk Vienna 14 FREE Salzburg Oriana will be with us until August and entertainment across mid-sized as well as fixtures, fittings, soft furnishings Jewels of Europe Austria Budapest next year so there will be plenty of ships, Arcadia, Aurora and Oceana, as and enhancements to public spaces Atlantic STC Hungary FLIGHTSOcean opportunity to celebrate her time well as the larger ships Britannia, Azura throughout the ship. 15 Day Cruise Amsterdam > Budapest TO EUROPE*

Royal Caribbean Invests in Silversea Cruises Experience Europe from a luxurious new perspective as you Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd and visionary leader whose high standards cruise the magnificent waterways of the Rhine, Main and ALL YEAR Manfredi Lefebvre D’Ovidio recently and history of innovation we deeply Danube rivers. Spain announced an agreement for RCL to respect. Manfredi will remain Executive ALL CRUISES acquire a stake in the privately owned Chairman of Silversea, continuing to Scenic’s focus on innovation and design ensures we are the ALL SUITES Silversea Cruises, bringing together two lead its strategy long term.” luxury class leader, delivering the ultimate in European river companies with bold, long-term visions cruising. You’ll find each suite complemented by stylish amenities, “This partnership will bolster the growth for the cruise industry. of this exceptional brand founded state of the art facilities, butler service and of course, all-inclusive Royal Panorama Suite, Scenic Amber Under the agreement, Royal Caribbean by my father," said Lefebvre. “I have dining and beverages, Wi-Fi, even transfers and gratuities. will acquire a 66.7% equity stake in always been kindred spirits with Richard Silversea Cruises based on an enterprise and we share a vision of (more) From Amsterdam’s famous canals, enchanting Vienna and breathtaking access, supply chain, purchasing power value of approximately $2 billion. The offering excellence and leadership to Budapest, to the magnificent castles and palaces that line these and other economies of scale. purchase price of the equity being our guests. This new partnership gives waterways, you will get a taste of the very best of Europe. acquired is approximately $1 billion. Silversea the opportunity to accelerate Lefebvre said he is confident that the significant investment stake he is With our exclusive signature Scenic Enrich program, delve deeper into the “Silversea is a crown jewel, and the the growth of the most successful luxury retaining will sizably increase its value region’s history with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including a private acknowledged leader in luxury and and expedition cruising brand in the through the growth this long-term concert in Palais Liechtenstein, and a night of medieval entertainment in expedition cruising, two key markets world.” partnership will enable. Lefebvre and Marksburg Castle. that are poised for growth,” said The strategic rationale for the Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of partnership its expedition offerings by Fain also confirmed that Silversea's CEO Portobellos, Scenic Jasper Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “Uniting adding a premiere ultra-luxury brand; Roberto Martinoli will continue in his From only $6,695*pp all-inclusive. our two companies presents an Leveraging the global footprint of the role, working with the existing Silversea *Conditions apply. Price and offer based on per person, twin share extraordinary opportunity to expand combined companies to generate management team. in AUD, are strictly limited and subject to availability until sold out. 2018 For new bookings only and are not combinable. Free Flights included vacation options for guests and demand and increase vacation and The company also operates the 138 128 SCENIC.COM.AU/EUROPE offer is based on an airline of Scenic’s choice. Airfares must be booked create revenue in strategic growth destination options for the guests of regional TUI Cruises and Pullmantur through Scenic. From price include $300pp Early Payment Discount or visit SCENIC.COM.AU/AGENTS for your nearest Scenic agent where full payment is due by 31 Oct 2018. Price based on STC061119.1 areas.” Fain added: “We are proud to both companies; Realizing significant brands as part of long-term joint in a category E suite (no balcony). Price correct as of 02/07/18. For full welcome aboard Manfredi Lefebvre, a synergies related to global market ventures. QUOTE ‘SNPR4957’ WHEN BOOKING terms and conditions visit scenic.com.au/terms. ABN 85 002 715 602. SNMA278. www.cruisingnews.com 5

SNMA278 CruisingNews_FP_ERC_STC.indd 1 5/7/18 2:50 pm Announces Enhancements to 2019 and 2020 Itineraries a variety of Mediterranean sailings from Rome (Civitavecchia), Barcelona, and Venice. ’s seasonal sailings in allows for , which will soon be refurbished, to return to Australia/New Zealand, and the South Pacific for a third year of seasonal cruises from , Papeete, Sydney, Auckland, , and Norwegian Cruise Line has announced for our shareholders.” Tokyo (Yokohama). enhancements to its 2019 and 2020 In April 2019, Norwegian Joy will Building even further on the line’s itineraries to leverage the strong global reposition to Seattle to offer seven- presence in the region, the 2,400 demand environment in highly sought day voyages to Alaska, replacing passenger will offer a after destinations. Norwegian Joy will as Norwegian Cruise season of sailings throughout Southeast join sister ship Norwegian Bliss sailing Line’s third ship in the region, joining Asia departing from Singapore and seasonally in Alaska and will offer Norwegian Bliss and Jewel. Prior to her Hong Kong in 2019/2020. Port of Mexican Riviera and arrival in Seattle, Norwegian Joy will call highlights include high demand voyages in 2019/2020. Norwegian undergo approximately US$50 million locations such as Phuket, Langkawi, Pearl will sail to Europe as the cruise in upgrades to enhance her already Penang, Bangkok (Laem Chabang), line’s sixth ship in the region in 2019, popular features and bring her designs Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) and Ha Long while Norwegian Jade and Jewel and offerings to be virtually identical to Bay. In addition, Norwegian Jade will will significantly expand Norwegian’s those of her sister ship, Norwegian Bliss, offer several unique itineraries through presence in Australasia in 2019/2020. the newest and most successful ship in the Suez Canal and Indian Ocean Maintaining Norwegian Cruise Line’s the line’s 51-year history. featuring calls in Greece, Israel, Jordan, commitment to serving the Chinese United Arab Emirates, Maldives, India, cruise market, will sail Following her inaugural Alaska season, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Norwegian Joy will sail to Los Angeles seasonally in beginning 2020. Norwegian Cruise Line remains for a season of Mexican Riviera and “The booming demand environment committed to serving the Chinese Panama Canal voyages in 2019/2020. in our core markets around the world, cruise market and will deploy the 2,000 This move will mark a turning point in the coupled with Norwegian Bliss’ record- passenger Norwegian Spirit seasonally historically underserved winter cruise breaking performance, continue to the region beginning in 2020. Prior to market on the West Coast of the United to exceed our expectations,” said her arrival, Norwegian Spirit will undergo States with the arrival of a premier, Frank Del Rio, president and chief a previously scheduled bow-to-stern state-of-the-art cruise ship. executive officer of Norwegian Cruise revitalisation as the final ship to undergo Line Holdings Ltd. “As a result, we are As Norwegian Joy enters the Alaska enhancements under the Norwegian leveraging the strategic benefits of our market, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Edge® fleet refurbishment program. In growing fleet to quickly seize sizable Pearl will deploy to Europe, further February 2020 her journey from Europe opportunities in over performing, strengthening the line’s seasonal to Asia will feature several exclusive unserved and underserved markets European deployment to six ships. She sailings with new calls for Norwegian to meet the demands of our global will offer new and varied itineraries Cruise Line including South Africa, customer base and drive higher returns from Amsterdam and also embark on Mauritius, and Maldives. Nine Extended Cruises in 2018-19 From September 2018 through March Seattle 29 September 2018 for an 2019, two Holland America Line ships 18-day Circle cruise that calls will say "Aloha" to the stunning, sun- at Victoria and Vancouver, British drenched islands of Hawaii. Guests Columbia, before heading to the interested in exploring the famed Hawaiian ports of Nawiliwili, Honolulu, island chain can choose from nine Lahaina and Hilo. Guests also can extending their vacation can lengthen cruises with itineraries ranging from choose to embark two days later the April 13 cruise and disembark in 16 to 20 days aboard Eurodam and 1 October and sail roundtrip from Vancouver after visiting Victoria for a Amsterdam. Hawaii sailings depart from Vancouver on a 16-day sailing. 20-day voyage. Seattle, Washington; Vancouver, British A second 18-day voyage is available Guests who wish to dive deeper into Columbia; and San Diego and Los aboard Eurodam on11 November 2018 the South Pacific can select Eurodam's Angeles, California. sailing roundtrip from San Diego. Guests 28-day Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas Most itineraries feature an overnight will visit the same Hawaiian ports, as well voyage 9 March 2019. Sailing roundtrip call in Honolulu, where guests have as calls at Kona, Hawaii, and Ensenada, from San Diego, cruisers will enjoy extra time to visit Pearl Harbor, relax on Mexico. Those planning for a holiday visits to six ports in French Polynesia – including overnights in both Bora Bora Waikiki Beach, take in the breathtaking getaway can enjoy a comparable and Papeete – as well as two ports in views from Diamond Head State itinerary on Amsterdam's 17-day Hawaii Hawaii and a call at Fanning Island. Monument or spend the evening Holiday cruise, sailing roundtrip from Los Cruisers can further their exploration of enjoying traditional Hawaiian food and Angeles 21 December 2018. the region on the Amsterdam's 51-day entertainment at an authentic luau. In 2019, three similar itineraries are Tales of the South Pacific voyage 28 The cruises also call at Hilo, Nawiliwili available aboard Eurodam, including October 2019. Sailing roundtrip San and Lahaina, with most adding a call two 17-day sailings departing 3 and Diego, the ship will visit Hawaii, Tahiti, at Kona. 20 February as well as a 16-day sailing, as well as calls in America Samoa, the To kick off the season Eurodam departs embarking 13 April. Cruisers interested in Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu and Tonga.

6 August 2018 Alaska, by Cunard.

Japan and Alaska Alaska Alaska 17 nights 10 nights 13 nights 5 - 21 May2019 Q915A 31 May - 10 June 2019 Q916 20 June - 3 July 2019 Q918A

Skagway Icy Strait Point Skagway Anchorage Icy Strait Point Juneau Juneau Kodiak Juneau Sitka Ketchikan Sitka Ketchikan Victoria Vancouver Sapporo Vancouver Victoria Vancouver Aomori Tokyo San Francisco

For more information and to view all fares, For more information and to view all fares, For more information and to view all fares, visit cunard.com/Q915A visit cunard.com/Q916 visit cunard.com/Q918A To book visit cunard.com/alaska, call 1300 369 601 or contact your travel agent

To be read in conjunction with the Terms and Conditions at cunardline.com.au/legal which passengers will be bound by. A 1.1% surcharge for Visa and Mastercard and a 2.3% surcharge for AMEX applies to direct bookings made through our call centre and website. Whilst all information is correct at the time of publication, offers are subject to change. Travel agents may charge additional fees - check with your travel agent. Please check with Cunard at the time of booking. Carnival plc trading as Cunard ABN 23 107 998 443.

www.cruisingnews.com 7 Seven Seas Splendor Keel Laying Marks Construction Milestone Perfecting luxury is a never-ending quest placed on Seven Seas Splendor are: for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. At Seven Ancient Roman Empire Coin, featuring Seas Splendor’s keel laying ceremony at Neptune, God of the Sea. The coin was the shipyard in Ancona, Italy, minted during the reign of Hadrian (117 two extraordinary full-size suite models to 138 AD) and commemorates the ship provided a first look at the ultimate being built in Italy and the origin of the accommodation options and attention coin tradition; Spanish Gold “Escudo” to detail guests will enjoy when the luxury Coin from the 1700s, commemorating ship debuts in 2020. Seven Seas Splendor’s inaugural voyage “® has earned on 7 February 2020, taking guests on remarkable acclaim since debuting an unforgettable 14-night transatlantic in 2016 as the most luxurious ship journey from Barcelona, Spain to . ever built. Now, her sister Seven Seas This Spanish Escudo will signify good Splendor builds upon the success of luck on her first official voyage and A that lauded ship as it strives to perfect Commemorative Coin, etched with uncompromised luxury on the seas,” said the date of the keel laying ceremony, Jason Montague, president and chief illustrating the partnership of Regent executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Seven Seas Cruises and Fincantieri. Cruises. “In our pursuit to exceed guest During the ceremony, the first two expectations, we are creating a work of 210 blocks that will comprise the of art, from bow to stern. Wherever you approximately 55,000 gross tonne vessel turn on Seven Seas Splendor, you will be were lifted into the , officially surrounded by elegance, comfort and marking the start of the ship’s assembly to perfect every detail for each suite, hospitality.” in the Ancona shipyard. ensuring the accommodation is perfect At the Keel Laying Ceremony Jason Keel laying ceremony attendees toured when suites are constructed. Montague and Shipyard Director full-size Concierge and Penthouse suite Photos – Coins welded to the keel and (from Giovanni Stecconi commemorated models at the Fincantieri shipyard, left to right): Robin Lindsay, executive vice the occasion by placing three coins representing a majority of the suites president, Vessel Operations, Norwegian onto the keel of the ship. In shipbuilding on board Seven Seas Splendor. Senior Cruise Line Holdings Ltd; Giovanni Stecconi, Fincantieri Shipyard Director; Jason tradition, the coins will remain member of the Operations team Montague, president and chief executive embedded within the ship’s structure for at Regent Seven Seas Cruises and officer, Regent Seven Seas Cruises; Franco its entire life, and will invite good fortune Fincantieri, as well as the architects Semeraro, senior vice president of hotel for all who sail aboard. The three coins and designers, leverage these models operations, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Sun Princess Calls Perth Home Following Multi-Million Dollar Refresh Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess will “I had the pleasure of visiting the In addition, Sun Princess was the first commence a short season in Perth spectacular Margaret River region Australian-based ship to offer the (Fremantle) complete with new features recently and I can say that Western Princess Luxury Bed, which has been and upgrades following a 14-day multi- Australia is a beautiful produce-rich developed exclusively for Princess by US million dollar refurbishment in Singapore state that has a flavour as dynamic as sleep expert Dr Michael Breus to deliver last month. From October, Sun Princess its people; I’m so excited to create my the most comfortable and rejuvenating will be based in Perth completing three signature dishes at SHARE using fresh sleep at sea. roundtrip itineraries, including a maiden local flavours that are unique to Western In the Princess Theatre, guests will be eight-night Coral Coast voyage which Australia,” said Chef Curtis Stone. entertained by Encore, a spellbinding will see the liner return to Exmouth for the For younger cruisers, Sun Princess has musical directed and choreographed first time since 2009. During her Western been fitted with transformed Camp by world-renown creative director, Australian deployment, Sun Princess Discovery youth centres. Designed in Danny Teeson. Guests can also will also make calls to Albany, Broome, partnership with Discovery™, the centres participate in The Voice of the Ocean, Busselton (for the Margaret River region) have been created specifically for kids an interactive in-show experience, and Geraldton. and teens, encouraging new friendships inspired by the highest-ranked TV show in “Sun Princess will return to the great city and supporting discovery and creativity the world. of Perth with an array of new features through play. Last year, Princess’ Western Australian that Western Australian’s are going to In aesthetic enhancements, Sun Princess deployment injected approximately love.” said Senior Vice President Princess is the latest ship to receive the elegant $40-million into the state’s economy. Cruises Asia Pacific, Stuart Allison. livery design featuring Princess Cruises’ This year, as a result of Sun Princess’ “Guests sailing on the new eight-night logo, one of the most recognised brand deployment, Western Australia will see a Coral Coast voyage roundtrip from logos in cruising. The design features further $8-million in spending from guests, Perth will make calls to Geraldton and the smooth and flowing gracefulness crew and port fees and charges. Broome, before sailing to Exmouth to of ocean waves and represents Sun Princess’ 2018/2019 deployment enjoy Western Australia’s stunningly the excitement and adventure of comes as Princes Cruises prepares for a beautiful Northwest Cape.” discovering the great destinations of the record-breaking 141 day deployment in Sun Princess’ homeport in Western world aboard a Princess cruise. Fremantle for the 2019/2020 Australian Australia also marks the return of Guests onboard Sun Princess can summer cruising season, the largest beloved Australian Chef Curtis Stone’s also enjoy an enhanced shopping financial commitment ever made to onboard restaurant, SHARE. With two experience at The Shops of Princess the state by a cruise brand. This historic award-winning restaurant’s in Los with a new branded Effy Fine Jewellery investment follows the return of Sun Angeles (Maude and Gwen), SHARE Boutique along with a newly designed Princess to Fremantle which will generate is the only opportunity for Western Logo Shop where guests can choose a one hundred per cent increase in Australians to sample the chef’s exquisite from a collection of Princess branded cruise ship guests sailing from Western cuisine locally. athletic wear and logo apparel. Australia.

8 August 2018 THIS IS NOT YOUR AVERAGE THIS IS NOT FAMILY HOLIDAY YOUR AVERAGE FAMILY HOLIDAY

Relax knowing we’ll take care of everything — accommodation, main meals, kids’ club, entertainment and the biggest selection of onboard activities are all included in your cruise fare.

NEW ZEALAND VOYAGE TROPICAL TREATS TROPICAL DELIGHTS NEW ZEALAND ADVENTURE 12 NIGHTS • DEPARTS 2 NOV 2018 9 NIGHTS • DEPARTS 7 NOV 2018 11 NIGHTS • DEPARTS 16 NOV 2018 14 NIGHTS • DEPARTS 28 NOV 2018

VANUATU AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND VANUATU LOYALTY AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND ISLANDS Sydney Mystery Island LOYALTY Vila Sydney Bay of Islands Bay of Islands Lifou Mystery Island ISLANDS Auckland Napier Auckland Noumea Noumea Lifou Tauranga Tauranga Isle of Pines Isle of Pines Wellington Wellington AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA NEW NEW CALEDONIA CALEDONIA Milford Sound Dunedin Milford Sound Dunedin Region Sydney Sydney Region

OVATION OF THE SEAS EXPLORER OF THE SEAS EXPLORER OF THE SEAS OVATION OF THE SEAS

ROYALCARIBBEAN.COM.AU | 1800 754 500 BEST CRUISE LINE FOR VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT ENTERTAINMENT 2017 Cruise Critic Australia Editors’ Picks Awards www.cruisingnews.com 9

Awarded Best Cruise Operator – International Deployment and Domestic Deployment at the 2017 AFTA National Travel Industry Awards and Best for Entertainment 2016 Cruise Critic Australia Editors’ Picks Awards . Amenities vary by ship. Exact itineraries are subject to change at any time. ABN 541 5026 3086. J10529 Orders Confirmed for Fifth and Sixth Ships in Next Generation of Newbuilds executive officer of Norwegian Cruise around the world. Details on the many Line Holdings Ltd. “Our six ship Leonardo innovative guest-facing and first at sea Class fleet will allow us to broaden our features will be announced at a later deployment into strong performing date. and mature unserved and underserved “Following the Breakaway Plus markets and offer new experiences to Class, the most successful class in our guests.” our Company’s history, the highly At 140,000 gross tonnes and anticipated Leonardo Class will accommodating approximately 3,300 fuel future growth with exciting guests, this next generation class of ships and innovative offerings that will will build upon the highly successful meaningfully drive demand from Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. offering of freedom and flexibility found new and loyal returning guests alike,” has announced it has confirmed its across Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet, said Andy Stuart, president and chief previously announced options for including the most recent Breakaway executive officer of Norwegian Cruise the fifth and sixth Plus Class ships, and feature a host Line. Class ships with Fincantieri S.p.A. for of inventive designs that will further With the announcement, Norwegian Norwegian Cruise Line for delivery in elevate its already award-winning guest Cruise Line Holdings has seven ships on 2026 and 2027. “These orders extend experience. A priority of the prototype order for Norwegian Cruise Line and our disciplined and measured newbuild design is energy efficiency, with the one for Regent Seven Seas Cruises for a program and strong growth trajectory aim of optimising fuel consumption total of eight vessels for delivery through well into the future and will further drive and reducing the impact on the 2027. The Company will take delivery long-term returns for our shareholders,” environment. The smaller footprint will of its newest ship, , in said Frank Del Rio, president and chief also broaden deployment opportunities the North-American autumn of 2019.

Seabourn Signs Letter of Intent to Build Two Ultra-Luxury Expedition Ships Seabourn has announced that it will add new capacity for Seabourn in demonstrates our leadership as has signed a Letter of Intent for the Antarctica, the Arctic, and other exotic innovators as we continue offering the construction of two new ultra-luxury destinations around the world while finest ultra-luxury cruises available.” expedition ships with a new partnership meeting PC6 Polar Class standards. between shipbuilders T.Mariotti Each will feature 132 luxurious As vessels built exclusively for and Damen, who will collaborate oceanfront veranda suites, which will expedition travel, the ships will offer on the construction of the vessels be home for up to 264 guests. amenities designed to deliver an under a common name MARIOTTI “This is a groundbreaking moment unparalleled guest experience in some DAMEN Cruise. The new ships will for Seabourn and for luxury travellers, of the most remote areas in the world. be a brand new innovative design, who will now find a new standard of A new and exciting offering will be two created specifically for the ultra-luxury authentic yet luxurious expedition submarines carried onboard, providing expedition traveller, and will include adventures in new and amazing an unforgettable view of the world many features that have made destinations few people will ever see,” beneath the ocean’s surface. The Seabourn ships so successful as well as said Richard Meadows, president ships will also be designed to carry a a host of unique features designed to of Seabourn. “The combination complement of kayaks and 24 Zodiac enhance the expedition experience. of immersive experience, fine The first delivery is expected in accommodations, and sumptuous inflatable boats, which have operated June 2021 and the second ship is amenities offered by these new as a part of the highly successful anticipated in May 2022. ships builds on the success of our Ventures by Seabourn program offered The 170 meter, 23,000 gross ton vessels current product lineup and further in select destinations around the world. Scenic Eclipse Launch Delayed The management of Scenic Luxury are not prepared to compromise the Scenic team will work closely with Cruises & Tours has announced that quality of the vessel and potentially guests to reschedule their trip at a the launch of Scenic Eclipse, the impact guest experiences to meet suitable time, for travel within the next World’s First Discovery Yacht, has been the original late August 2018 launch two years. Scenic will provide all guests delayed until late January 2019. date,” said Mr Moroney. “We have who rebook a Scenic Eclipse voyage apologised to affected guests for the during this time a future cruise credit Scenic Founder and Chairman, Glen inconvenience caused and confirmed to the value of 25% of the cost of their Moroney, cites construction issues that Scenic will provide a full refund rebooked cruise,” said Mr Moroney. within the shipyard have caused the for the cost of their Scenic Eclipse delay. “Despite the best efforts of our cruise and consideration of any other Scenic has contacted all guests and Scenic Eclipse Build Supervision Team reasonable associated costs incurred their travel agents affected by the to make up construction time, we with their travel plans. In addition, the delay as a matter of priority.

Virgin Voyages Announces Name of First Ship Recently at the Fincantieri's Sestri Ponente shipyard in Italy Virgin Voyages celebrated two events – the naming of their first ship, Scarlet Lady due to enter service in 2020 and the steel-cutting ceremony for their second ship, due for delivery in 2021. If the leading lady image on the livery seems recognizable, it might be because she’s made appearances on Virgin entities before. Designed by artist Toby Tinsley, her likeness appears on Virgin Atlantic and Australia aircrafts as well as the Virgin Galactic spaceline.

10 August 2018 BEYOND THE EXPECTED.

BEST PREMIUM CRUISE LINE TRAVEL WEEKLY (US) READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2008 - 2017

NEW ZEALAND AUSTRALIA Bay of Islands NEW ZEALAND AUSTRALIA Bay of Islands Auckland Tauranga Sydney Tauranga AUSTRALIA Sydney Auckland Auckland Picton Napier Fremantle Sydney Adelaide Wellington Wellington Napier Akaroa Tauranga Akaroa Esperance Dunedin Melbourne Dusky Sound Dunedin Dunedin Doubtful Sound Milford Sound Milford Sound Milford Sound Doubtful Sound Doubtful Sound NEW Dusky Sound Dusky Sound ZEALAND

FIORDS, WINES AND BAYS NEW ZEALAND EXPLORER FREMANTLE TO AUCKLAND 12 NIGHTS l 20 NOV 2018 11 NIGHTS | 2 DEC 2018 16 NIGHTS | 28 FEB 2019 Celebrity Solstice® Celebrity Solstice® Celebrity Solstice®

1800 754 500 | CelebrityCruises.com.au www.cruisingnews.com 11 Azamara Club Cruises Ends First World Journey Azamara Club Cruises’ 690-guest This once-in-a-lifetime trip saw the ship Underscoring the brand’s hallmark boutique cruise liner, Azamara Journey, sail through three continents and cross immersive programming, Azamara’s sailed through the Thames Barrier the equator, stopping at a selection of world journey included 18 late night on Saturday 16 June 2018 (UK Time), beloved cruising destinations such as departures, 13 overnight stays and marking the end of its 102-day World Italy, France and Thailand, as well as exposed guests to around 20 different Journey. The 34,792 kilometre voyage lesser frequented destinations such as languages. Over 1,000 glasses of began in Sydney on 7 March and Myanmar, Brunei and Israel. Champagne were served throughout ended in Greenwich, London after The 30,000 tonne Azamara Journey the voyage, which also featured an visiting 28 countries and visiting 60 passed through the Thames Barrier extensive selection of shore excursions. individual destinations. after passing by London landmarks Highlights include visits to the Sydney A total of 53 guests sailed the entire such as The O2 Arena, the Cutty Sark, Opera House; the iconic Wat Arun world journey, with thousands of others Billingsgate Fish Market and the Old temple in Bangkok; The Dead Sea in joining for segments of the voyage. Royal Naval College. Jordan and Prince's Palace of Monaco.

EXTRAORDINARY WORLDS™ Elegant adventure, luxury unbound.

Saint-Raphaël MONTE CARLO Kingston Sète Portoferraio Russell Tasman AUCKLAND Sea Matiatia Bay Amalfi BARCELONA Golfo Aranci Tauranga Tyrrhenian Gisborne Sea Napier Mediterranean Giardini Sea Milford Sound Wellington Naxos Kaikoura Akaroa Oban Port Chalmers Mgarr Valletta 10-day Yachtsman’s Mediterranean 16-day New Zealand Splendours Monte Carlo to Barcelona Roundtrip Auckland 5 Aug & 9 Sep 2019 • Seabourn Encore 6 Jan & 23 Feb 2019 • Seabourn Encore

Enjoy your journey on the World’s Finest Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line. Contact your travel professional, call 13 24 02 or visit Seabourn.com

12 August 2018 2019-2020 SUPERSAVER NOT JUST A REGULAR SALE

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Not combinable with any other offer or promotion except Standard Voyages Club discount. 7nt Med MSC Fantasia ex Genoa 19Oct19; 14nt East & West Med MSC Sinfonia + MSC Fantasia ex Venice 12Oct19. 7nt Northern Europe MSC Meraviglia ex Copenhagen 5May19; 14nt Fjords & Baltic Capitals MSC Meraviglia ex Copenhagen 28Apr19. Caribbean 7nt MSC Seaside 2Nov19, 14nt Caribbean = 7nt MSC Seaside 2Nov19 + 7nt MSC Seaside 26Oct19. Free Transfer is available on selected cruises a FREE one way transfer between Genoa and Venice (or vice versa) on selected 14 or 21 night cruises for first two adults only, children, 3rd & 4th adults must pay transfer cost one way (AU/NZ$150pp). Prices correct as at 30Jul18 & can be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. E&OE MSC Cruises (Australia) Pty Limited ABN 55 003 526 725. General Sales Agent for MSC Cruises S.A | ATAS Accredited No A10954 www.cruisingnews.com 13 P&O Cruises Celebrates ’s 1st Birthday P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer ago, we’ve entertained nearly 25,000 celebrated her first birthday in Sydney guests with our signature Love Riot Harbour with a spectacular party performance. The hilarious and high- featuring the cruise line’s biggest energy circus-style production has birthday cake at sea. proved so Standing more than three metres high popular that we wanted to celebrate on the top deck of the 2000-guest the ship’s first birthday with an exciting cruise ship, the first-of-its-kind cake new cut of the show and a new line-up surprised guests when acrobats, jugglers of international artists,” Mr Myrmell said. and dancers from Love Riot, the ship’s “Love Riot is like no other entertainment explosive production show, emerged at sea and is more in keeping with the from beneath the layers of “icing”. spectacular aerial artistry found at Love Riot is a cabaret-style act more major festivals around the world. We commonly found in a Spiegel tent than wanted to challenge the conventional a cruise ship and features world-class production shows found on cruise dance, comedy, circus and acrobatics ships and offer our guests a premium created by internationally acclaimed experience that would really get Australian director Scott Maidment, the people talking.” brains behind Madonna’s Rebel Heart Since Pacific Explorer’s arrival she has More than 310,000 flat whites and Tour. taken more than 137,000 Australian lattes have been consumed along It has been turbo-charged to mark holidaymakers on 61cruises to 28 with 300,000 cocktails, and in true Pacific Explorer’s first birthday and destinations close to home and celebratory birthday style, more than includes a new and impressive overseas. 500 litres of Champagne and sparkling world-class line up of elite artists and In a record year of comedy for the wine. contortionists that dangle from silk home-grown cruise line, Pacific Explorer The biggest birthday cake at sea was sheets and trapezes, unicycle through has played host to more than 45 designed and built by Big Kahuna the audience and perform awe- comedians who have told over 10,000 Imagineering. The cake took three inspiring acts. jokes during 9,000 minutes of comedy. weeks to design and build, and it P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell The ship’s new fast-casual dining was constructed from polystyrene, said Love Riot had been one of options have proved a treat, with wood, metal, foam, lycra and other the flagship’s many success stories 50,000 pizzas served at the traditional decorative elements. Over 50 metres of since its debut in July 2017 and had Neapolitan pizzeria 400 Gradi from foam and lycra was used in the “icing”, captured the imagination and hearts Johnny Di Francesco and 40,000 alongside poly sculpted meringues, of thousands of guests. “Since we burgers made at Luke’s grill founded by and sugar coated polystyrene launched Pacific Explorer 12 months Luke Mangan. marshmallows. Astor to sail into the sunset for farewell season After six years of cruising from Fremantle less. In the upcoming season a guest 10 March 2019); Number of guests and Adelaide and carrying more than could sail from Fremantle to Adelaide sailed: 115,343; Number of consecutive 115,000 guests, Astor will sail Australian via Esperance for five nights before voyages one guest has cruised: 9; shores with Cruise & Maritime Voyages heading off on a three-night cruise Number of nights sailed aboard Astor for the last time in March 2019. sampling the delights of Kangaroo by one guest: 497; Nautical miles sailed Back-to-back cruises are popular with Island and Port Lincoln. They could then in Australian waters: 129,036; Number of CMV’s clientele and one particularly sail around Tasmania to experience its loyal passenger has booked nine natural wonders, history, and culinary afternoon teas served: 2,867; Number of consecutive voyages on Astor this attractions for an additional seven birthdays and anniversaries celebrated season according to Dean Brazier, nights. Summer is arguably the best time on board: 482 and Amount of prawns Managing Director of CMV Australia. to cruise these destinations with plenty served on board: over 13,000 kg. “We believe our guests keep returning of opportunities to cool off at some of CMV’s new ship because of the intimate atmosphere Australia’s most pristine beaches,” said and personalised service on our ships, Mr Brazier. will join the fleet from April 2019 and and our new offer provides the ideal Astor – fun facts and figures (based will begin its first Australian season in opportunity to see more of Australia for on conclusion of 2018/19 season on December 2019.

New Evening Shore Excursions Royal Caribbean Cruises has South Pacific cruise leaving Sydney on of Lemon Bay; Discover the South announced a series of brand-new 14 November 2018, which also visits of Noumea: Guests can embark evening shore excursions for the cruise Mystery Island in Vanuatu. on a seven-hour adventure to the island’s south, visiting the church of La line’s first-ever overnight call to Noumea New Shore Excursions include: An Conception, the prison ruins of Prony, on 17 November 2018. Quantum Class Evening in Lemon Bay – Dinner & and a nature walk and picnic at ship Ovation of the Seas arrives in Show at Le Duke’s: Guests will travel Noumea at 8am on 17 November and revered La Madeleine waterfalls and 15 minutes by bus to Lemon Bay All-Inclusive Sunset Cruise: Guests will departs at 5pm on 18 November 2018, where they can enjoy dinner at retro, board a high-speed luxury yacht and allowing guests the rare opportunity to beachside restaurant Dukes, followed enjoy complimentary cocktails and explore New Caledonia’s cosmopolitan by a traditional Tahitian performance. light snacks while taking in the sights of capital after sunset. After this, guests can spend two hours Noumea’s breathtaking coastline at The overnight stay is part of a nine-night exploring the sophisticated nightlife sunset.

14 August 2018 JOURNEYTO EUROPEWITH ALOCAL

Livorno (Florence/Pisa) VENICE HARDANGERFJORD St. Petersburg Bergen Stockholm Monte Carlo Eidfjord Helsinki DAYJEWELS Toulon DAY Stavanger Oslo Dubrovnik OFTHEBALTIC& MEDITERRANEAN OSLOFJORD Tallinn BARCELONA Skagen VIKINGSAGAS Naples ROMANCE Civitavecchia Kristiansand COPENHAGEN TO (Rome) VENICE TO BARCELONA Aarhus ROTTERDAM Sarandë 27 May & 14 Jul 2019 COPENHAGEN 24 Jun 2019 Veendam Kiel Warnemünde (Berlin) Zuiderdam () Katákolon (Olympia) ROTTERDAM

CHOOSEFROMCRUISESAND RECEIVEOURBESTOFFEROFTHE SEASONINCLUDING* • Signature Beverage Package • Dinner in the Pinnacle Grill • Reduced fares for 3rd/4th guests • 50% reduced deposit Bonus off er for suites: Receive the above PLUS US$200^ onboard spending money!

Call your Travel Professional or 1300 987 322 or visit hollandamerica.com

*Explore4 offers are per stateroom and are applied to the fi rst two guests in a room only. Offers are available for new bookings only and are not combinable with any other discounts, transferable or refundable. Offers based on promos NX/NP/UU. Offers applicable on select 2019-2020 sailings. Subject to availability. Signature Beverage Package has a daily limit of 15 beverages per person. Pinnacle Grill dinner: Guests receive one complimentary dinner per person. Free or reduced fares for friends and kids is based on sharing a stateroom with guests 1 & 2. ^Suite offer: Onboard Spending Money is US$100 per guest (US$200 per suite). For full offer Term and Conditions refer to hollandamerica.com/Explore4. To be read in conjunction with the Holland America Line Passage Contract available at hollandamerica.com which guests will be bound by. Whilst all information is correct at time of publication, offers are subject to change or withdrawal. Carnival plc (ABN 23 107 998 443) as agent for Holland America Line NV. Explore4 offers end 17/11/18. HA90.2

www.cruisingnews.com 15 Golden Princess Returns to Melbourne Princess Cruises’ Golden Princess will memories during their cruise holiday.” return to Melbourne in October for her Golden Princess will also be among the summer 2018/19 season with an array first in the Princess fleet to roll out the of new features following a multi-million latest update of Princess’ celebrated dollar refurbishment as the line prepares Across the Ditch program, designed to to celebrate 10 years since their first further immerse guests in New Zealand summer season from Victoria. Golden culture and cuisine. The enriched Princess will complete 9 roundtrip program will continue to offer uniquely itineraries from Melbourne to New New Zealand experiences through Zealand as part of Princess’ biggest a series of interactive and engaging ever New Zealand season. onboard and shore activities. For younger cruisers during the In preparation for Golden Princess’ school holidays, Golden Princess now Melbourne homeport, celebrity Italian hosts transformed youth centres as chef, Angelo Auriana partnered with part of Princess’ Discovery at Sea program. Designed in partnership with Princess Cruises to enhance the line’s Discovery™, the centres have been signature Italian restaurant, Sabatini’s created specifically for kids and teens, Italian Trattoria. New menu offerings encouraging new friendships and at Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria draw guests will be treated to premium Chef Auriana’s famous approach of supporting discovery and creativity picture, with extreme wide-angel combining old-world grains with non- through play. and advanced outdoor light sensors traditional ingredients, and feature “Princess Cruises has carried more than delivering double the image quality of handmade pasta dishes inspired by 250,000 Victorians on cruises sailing from the previous system. In addition every family recipes from Italian chefs across the city since 2008” said Senior Vice the Princess fleet. Favourite dishes cabin has been fitted with the award- President Princess Cruises Asia Pacific, include; risotto made with vialone nano winning Princess Luxury Bed which has Stuart Allison. “Multi-gen cruising is on rice, beets dolce latte, gorgonzola been developed exclusively for Princess the rise and opens up an easy way for by US sleep expert Dr Michael Breus families to access some of Australia’s and pistachios and Roman seafood al to deliver the most comfortable and favourite holiday destinations, such Cartoccio with grouper, shrimp, black rejuvenating sleep at sea. as New Zealand. Golden Princess will mussels, scallops, potato and artichoke. arrive in Melbourne with a host of new Additional enhanced features onboard Golden Princess will arrive in Melbourne features for family cruising, enabling Golden Princess include a grand new to commence her Summer Cruise loved ones to create fun and enriching Movies Under the Stars® screen where Season on Thursday, 25 October 2018.

Journeys Of Discovery 2020 WORLD CRUISE SECTORS ON SALE NOW

AUCKLAND TO SYDNEY SYDNEY TO HONG KONG HONG KONG TO SINGAPORE 19 Feb 2020 | 6 Nights | Columbus 25 Feb 2020 | 27 Nights | Columbus 23 Mar 2020 | 11 Nights | Columbus

Beijing Kagoshima Tokyo Hong Kong Book Both & Extend Book Both & Extend Halong Bay Your Journey Hong Kong Your Journey Sihanoukville Sydney Auckland Bangkok Madang Ho Chi Minh City Cairns Wellington Hamilton Island Singapore Sydney BUY ONE GET ONE FREE BUY ONE GET ONE FREE BUY ONE GET ONE FREE GUEST 1 GUEST 2 GUEST 1 GUEST 2 GUEST 1 GUEST 2 Inner Cabins From $1,799 FREE Inner Cabins From $8,089 FREE Inner Cabins From $3,299 FREE

CALL 1300 307 934 | BOOK ONLINE AT CMVAUSTRALIA.COM | CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL AGENT Terms & Conditions: Offers are valid for new bookings only. Fares shown are cruise only, per person twin-share, in AUD and include all savings, discounts, port and government charges (including GST when applicable). On “Buy One Get One Free” offer both 1st and 2nd guest must be booked together and travel in the same cabin. Prices differ for triple or quad share. Offers are not combinable with other offers or promotions. Offer can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Gratuities not included. Non-refundable deposit required within 5 days of confirmation, balance due 90 days prior to sailing. Amendment/cancellation fees and booking conditions apply. E&OE. For all terms and conditions that apply, please visit CMVAustralia.com

16 August 2018 This is the life. At P&O Worldwide Cruises, we’d like to treat you to a taste of the good life, or rather the great life! Your ‘This is the life’ moments lie in wait around every corner and in every port; as you step aboard for the very first time to the sight of your ships glamorous atrium, as you pull back your cabin’s curtains to reveal a new destination and as you savour a delicious meal to sea views.

Book now at pocruises.com | your travel agent | or call 13 24 28 Silver Muse’s inaugural Christmas cruise to Australia Silversea is inviting guests to celebrate Whitsunday Islands and Brisbane. During landscapes of Mt Tamborine rainforest the festive season aboard Silver Muse, the cruise, a number of excursions followed by an Australian barbeque on what will be the flagship’s inaugural are on offer including: a quad bike and wine tasting in Brisbane; and a visit to Australia, a leisurely 16 day sailing tour through bamboo forests, rice Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. from Bail on 21 December 2018. paddies and tropical plantations The 596-guest Silver Muse is Silversea’s in Bali; a guided hike on Komodo Setting sail from Bali on 21 December newest flagship vessel. Following her Island to observe the local reptiles; an 2018, Silver Muse will depart on this arrival in Australia, Silver Muse will offer excursion through Litchfield National unforgettable 16 day journey. Her first four sailings between Sydney, Auckland Park including Table Top Range, and Bali on voyages ranging from 13 port of call in Australia will be Darwin Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole in to 19 days, departing in January and on 26 December, before continuing to Darwin; swimming and snorkelling the February 2019. Following this inaugural follow Australia’s stunning east coast, World-Heritage listed Great Barrier sailing to the region in 2018/2019, before arriving in Sydney for the very first Reef; Magnetic island excursion with Silver Muse will spend more than four time on 6 January 2019. local rangers; a seaplane tour of the months in Australia and New Zealand in Silver Muse will make maiden ports of Whitsundays with a visit to Whitehaven 2019/2020, marking her longest season call at Darwin, Cairns, Townsville, the Beach; exploring the dramatic in the region to date.

Viking’s Fifth Ocean Ship Named Viking named its fifth ocean ship, newest itineraries in Asia, Australia and guests onboard our newest ship, Viking Orion during a spectacular Alaska. which has been designed to offer celebration in Livorno, Italy. The ship At the naming celebration Torstein opportunities for learning about the was delivered to Viking and sailed its Hagen, Chairman of Viking said great history of space exploration.” maiden voyage with her ceremonial “Today is a proud day for the entire During the naming ceremony guests godmother, American chemist, Viking family. Just three years ago we enjoyed a mythology and the spirit of emergency room physician and retired launched our first ocean ship, and now NASA astronaut Dr. Anna Fisher, along exploration. Legendary British explorer we are welcoming our fifth ship, whose Sir Ranulph “Ran” Fiennes served with dozens of Dr. Fisher’s friends, name was selected to honour both as the narrator for the event, which family, academics, explorers and the original Viking explorers who used also included musical performances fellow astronauts. The 930-guest 47,800- the constellations for long-distance ton Viking Orion is named after the navigation, as well as the great space from Italian tenor Antonio Corianò, prominent constellation and in honour explorers of our time. We are grateful Norwegian bukkehorn musician of Dr. Fisher’s work on NASA’s Orion for Dr. Fisher’s many contributions to Sissel Morken Gullord and Norwegian exploration vehicle project. the scientific community, and we are singer Sissel Kyrkjebø, who is widely After the ceremony the ship continued humbled that she is godmother to considered one of the world’s top her maiden season sailing itineraries in Viking Orion. The spirit of exploration is crossover sopranos and who will also the Western and Eastern Mediterranean at the heart of the Viking way of travel, be godmother to Viking Jupiter, which before heading east to sail Viking’s and we look forward to welcoming debuts in early 2019.

18 August 2018 Experience More WithAzamara ASIA INTENSIVE VOYAGES IN BOUTIQUE LUXURY

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10 NIGHT THAILAND AND VIETNAM Bangkok VIETNAM 26 NOVEMBER 2018 THAILAND Ho Chi Minh City Ko Samui Azamara Quest® FROM SINGAPORE TO BANGKOK AND THEN HO CHI MINH CITY, IMMERSE ALL FIVE SENSES AND DISCOVER THE HIDDEN GEMS Singapore OF THE FAR EAST IN BOUTIQUE LUXURY.

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Azamara’s Luxury Inclusions Longer stays and more overnights in places you'll love All-inclusive with house beers, wines, spirits and more Friendly and intuitive service from our wonderful crew Explore FurtherSM with immersive Shore Excursions

For more information visitazamaraclubcruises.com.au or call us on 1800 754 500 or contactwww.cruisingnews.com your travel agent. 19 Celebrity Cruises Unveils First Ever Brand Designed Terminal art installation. innovative facility that is inspired by the T25 will also sleek, futuristic design of Celebrity Edge offer Suite Class and can accommodate some of the guests a singular world’s largest cruise ships,” said Port experience along Everglades Chief Executive and Port the path to The Director Steven Cernak. “The time was Retreat, with an right to build a new Terminal 25.” exclusive lounge, T25 also features a 135 square metre elevator lobbies, GKD Mediamesh that will wrap the Celebrity Cruises celebrates another screening areas and even a private rooftop terrace. terminal’s exterior, juxtaposing the more milestone with the unveiling of the than 1672 square metres of outward line’s first ever brand-designed cruise “When designing the revolutionary facing glass, and the first purpose-built Celebrity Edge, we knew we wanted terminal, Terminal 25 (T25), located crew lounge of any Royal Caribbean at Port Everglades in Hollywood, to design a terminal that perfectly Cruises terminal. This crew lounge will Florida. Designed to complement complemented the ship and matched have complimentary Wi-Fi connectivity, the sophistication of the terminal’s its one-of-a-kind experience,” said TV access, optimised storage, quiet future resident – the industry’s most Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, places for employees and more. anticipated new ship, Celebrity Edge – Celebrity Cruises. “With cutting-edge T25 features cutting-edge technology technology, in service of a gorgeous Scheduled for completion in late and a sleek design, all crafted to create design, T25 is that perfect new home. October 2018, T25 will be the new the ultimate guest experience. T25 also happens to be Celebrity’s first home to many Celebrity ships during Brought to life in collaboration with ever brand-designed cruise terminal, their winter deployment, including Broward County’s Port Everglades and which not only represents a milestone Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Infinity, seasoned architectural firm Bermello for Celebrity, but also presented us Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Ajamil & Partners, Inc., T25 melds a with the opportunity to set yet another Silhouette. Along with these ships, the warm design with unique technology, standard in design and create the terminal will be LEED certified and able such as Frictionless Arrival, which will perfect guest experience.” to accommodate up to a 350m long make the check-in process absolutely “We are replacing two smaller and ship. When Celebrity is not using T25 the seamless, and an interactive light wall outdated cruise terminals with an facility will be open to other cruise lines.

Another New Cruise Terminal at PortMiami MSC Cruises and Miami-Dade agreement extends county have announced the signing MSC Cruises’ of an agreement for extended existing Saturday preferential berthing rights as well as a preferential Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) berthing rights for the construction of a new Cruise also to Sundays. Terminal AAA at PortMiami. Additionally, the new terminal, Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive which is projected also sails seasonally to the Caribbean Chairman of MSC Cruises, commented: to be completed by October 2022, will from October through March, and “The new agreement and expanded be able to accommodate MSC Cruises’ MSC Armonia will join MSC Cruises’ partnership with PortMiami and Miami- next-generation of World Class cruise North American-based fleet beginning Dade County is another key step ships carrying up to 7,000 guests which year-round cruises to Havana, Cuba forward in the business growth of MSC are still under construction. in December 2018. In addition, as of Cruises, as we continue to strengthen Currently the revolutionary MSC November 2019, MSC Meraviglia, the our global footprint, with a strategic Seaside, which debuted in late Company’s largest ship at 171,598 GRT focus on North America." 2017, sails year around from Miami with the capacity to carry 5,714 cruise PortMiami is the Company’s exclusive to the Caribbean from the recently guests, will join the other three ships at home-port in the U.S. The new completed Terminal F. MSC Divina PortMiami.

Relocation to the North China Market has announced SuperStar its portfolio has also helped grow the China, we are providing a variety of Virgo’s highly-anticipated relocation to South China market to become one different cruise experiences from across the North China market where, in the of the nation’s three largest cruise China, building closer relationships with three months starting September 2018, homeport regions in just one year local travel agents, ports and business she will start her homeport deployment and further reinforces the brand’s partners while boosting our market in Dalian, and . With commitment to the development penetration rate and expanding further this expansion to the North China of China’s cruise market. As well, into the China market,” said Mr. Kent market, Star Cruises will further expand in recent years, Star Cruises has Zhu, President of Genting Cruise Lines. its footprint in the country by covering developed several homeport itineraries As a prelude to SuperStar Virgo’s China’s three main cruise markets in of distinction from China which has homeport, SuperStar Aquarius was the South, East and North this year resulted in a new record for the number deployed to Qingdao earlier this year after earlier deployments by SuperStar of homeport deployments by the same and the positive market response has Virgo in Shanghai, SuperStar Gemini brand in Qingdao. reinforced Star Cruises’ confidence in in Xiamen, Sanya and Haikou and “We are excited that Genting Cruise SuperStar Virgo’s itineraries from Dalian SuperStar Aquarius in Qingdao. Lines is expanding its market reach in (staring 9 September), Tianjin (staring A force in the China market for over North China. By deploying Star Cruises 30 September) and Qingdao (starting 3 20 years, Star Cruises’ expansion of to the three key cruise markets in November).

20 August 2018 Voyages to Antiquity invites you to enjoy FLY FREE TO EUROPE IN 2019 an intimate, inclusive Small-ship cruising at its best Grand Voyage experience!

OUR AWARD-WINNING JOURNEYS INCLUDE: • Sightseeing shore tours in most ports of call • Hotel stays & transfers - as per the itinerary • Many evening & overnight stays in port • Experienced team of guest speakers • All meals on-board Aegean Odyssey • Complimentary wine & beer with dinner on board • Gratuities for on-board cabin & restaurant staff ASK ABOUT OUR SOLO TRAVELLER FARES !

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Odessa North Cape FLY FLY Tromso FLY LONDON FREE FREE Alesund Harstad FREE Constanza Rouen Hellesylt Trondheim Honfleur Lerwick Geiranger Varna Bergen La Rochelle Dubrovnik Stavanger La Coruna ROME Bordeaux London Monte Sorrento Lemnos COPENHAGEN San Sete Carlo Portofino Guernsey Sebastian Volos Oporto Livorno Lecce Corfu Honfleur Barcelona Marseilles Skiathos Vigo La Rochelle Lisbon Tarragona ROME Delphi Patmos Bordeaux Olympia Oporto Malaga Catania ATHENS Lisbon Sparta Cadiz SEVILLE Grand Black Sea Grand Iberia to Grand Rivers, Rivieras & Southern Italy the North Cape & Renaissance - Athens to Rome - - Seville to Copenhagen - - London to Rome - 2 May 2019 | 25 nights 4 June 2019 I 29 nights 12 August 2019 I 28 nights Free Return Economy airfare to Europe* Free Return Economy airfare to Europe* Free Return Economy airfare to Europe* 2 night hotel stay in Athens 2 night hotel stay in Seville 2 night hotel stay in London 21 night cruise onboard Aegean Odyssey 27 night cruise onboard Aegean Odyssey 24 night cruise onboard Aegean Odyssey 2 night hotel stay in Rome Overnight onboard in Copenhagen 2 night hotel stay in Rome 18 included shore excursions 18 included shore excursions 18 included shore excursions

per person per person per person FROM $12,995* twin share FROM $14,695* twin share FROM $13,750* twin share

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*All fares in AU dollars, per person, twin share based on category I (obstructed outside cabin) for the 2 May 2019 sailing & category J for the 4th of June and 12 August 2019 cruises including onboard gratuities & port taxes (correct as of 30 July, 2018). Valid for new bookings only. Fly Free offer is based on economy class air to/from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane Adelaide & Perth only, specific airlines, routings & departure dates. Hotel & transfers between airport, port and hotel offered on dates specified on itinerary only, at the discretion of Voyages to Antiquity. Offers are capacity controlled and can be withdrawn or modified at any time without notice, and subject to availability at time of booking. Cancellation penalties & conditions apply. Prices based on payment by cash or cheque only. Travel agent service fees not included. Voyages to Antiquity reserve the right to change, correct errors, withdraw from sale any or all fares, itineraries, excursions & fees. For full terms & conditions visit www.voyagestoantiquity.comwww.cruisingnews.com or visit your local preferred Travel Agent. 21 Inauguration of Le Lapérouse, the very first vessel in the PONANT EXPLORERS series On 10 July 2018 the French cruise line, Eye, a multi-sensorial underwater and combining exceptional comfort, PONANT, celebrated the inauguration lounge located in the hull below sea a sleek line and state-of-the-art of Le Lapérouse, in the presence of level, designed in collaboration with technology, the new ship is designed Mrs. François Pinault, the godmother of Jacques Rougerie, an architect and to explore the most remote areas of the ship and prominent political and member of the prestigious Académie the world with the upmost respect cultural figures, international media Française. for the environment (Cleanship and and key partners. In this exceptional space, through Bureau Veritas certifications). With During a vibrant Breton-inspired the two portholes made in the shape the new PONANT EXPLORERS series, ceremony – a nod to the origins of of a cetacean eye, the passengers PONANT can not only offer an even PONANT which celebrates its 30th watched French free diving champion, wider range of destinations in the polar anniversary this year – the Lann Bihoué Aurore Asso’s aquatic ballet. circles, but also in tropical and sub- Bagad’s bagpipes, Breton oboes With integrated digital screens tropical areas through new expedition and drums powerfully reverberated. projecting the live images captured programs. Breton singer Bleuwenn Mevel gave by three underwater cameras, entirely Since the end of 2015 and the group’s an emotional acapella rendition of non-intrusive underwater projectors acquisition by Artémis, François the Breton anthem while the poignant allowing the observation of the sea Pinault’s family holding company, sound of Konan Mevel’s (from famous world without any risk for the ocean the group’s development has Breton band Tri Yann) bagpipe life, the Blue Eye also offers a unique considerably accelerated. The fleet will resonated at the prow of the ship as sound experience. Captured by be completed by 5 others sisterships she was sailing off. hydrophones, the natural symphony from the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Another highlight of the day involved of the oceanic world is piped into the on which construction is under way: Le Lapérouse being greeted as she lounge and can be felt through the Le Champlain is set to depart on its was sailing from Hafnarfjörður by “Body Listening” sofas that vibrates maiden cruise in October 2018, Le Le Soléal, another Ponant ship, also discreetly by corporal resonance. Bougainville and Le Dumont-d’Urville positioned in Icelandic waters. Of small capacity (131 metre-long, 92 will be delivered in 2019, and Le Bellot Guests on board discovered the Blue cabins and suites all with balconies), and Le Surville in 2020.

Carnival Cruise Line Announces Largest Selection of Cruises Ever from Australia Carnival Cruise Line has launched the tropical wonderlands of Espiritu Carnival Cruise Line Vice President its 2020 program, boasting a record Santo, Mystery Island and Noumea. Australia, Jennifer Vandekreeke, said number of 77 sailings from Australia to In yet another first for the brand, the the brand was excited to reveal so the South Pacific, New Zealand and new program also boasts a record many new and fun cruising options for Australia. The 2020 program includes number of 28 short cruises, giving Aussies as part of the program launch. the first full year of sailings for Carnival “2020 marks a significant milestone as Splendor, Australia’s newest and Aussies and Kiwis the chance to largest ship home ported year-round in sample all of the fun that Carnival we offer Australians the first full year Australia, sailing from Sydney. has to offer, in five days or less. of sailings onboard . Joining us down under as our newest Following the news that Carnival Aussie holidaymakers also have the Spirit will become the brands first- opportunity to sail on the popular and largest ship in Australia, we can’t ever ship to home port in Brisbane, repositioning cruise across the wait to give holidaymakers the chance Queenslanders will benefit from unique transpacific to Honolulu, with Carnival to experience all the fun she has to itineraries including a 7-day cruise to Spirit in 2020. offer. Arriving Soon! Majestic Princess leaves Shanghai on Fendi and many more. During her 24 August for her voyage to Australia inaugural Australian season, Majestic to commence her inaugural Summer Princess will sail on 16 cruises to Cruise Season on September 15 destinations including Fiji, New Zealand stopping at Busan, Hong Kong, Nha and Tasmania as well as the two Asia Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, voyages between Shanghai and Darwin and Brisbane. At 330 metres Sydney, and Sydney and Hong Kong. long, she will be the largest Princess Cruises’ ship ever to visit local shores Recently the Majestic Princess crew and will be home to the largest retail marked their 100th voyage milestone shopping space at sea, with more than in spectacular fashion in Shanghai with 1000 square metres of luxury brands over 300 crew taking to the top deck including Bvlgari, Burberry, Cartier, to celebrate.

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ISLANDS OF THE SOUTHERN AUSTRALIA SYDNEY TO LONDON, SOUTH PACIFIC TO SOUTH AFRICA VIA AFRICA SANTIAGO – SYDNEY SYDNEY – DURBAN SYDNEY – LONDON 32 days I 8 guided tours I 4 countries 29 Days I 10 Guided Tours I 5 Countries 57 Days I 20 Guided Tours I 11 Countries Set sail 12 Feb 2019 Set sail 16 Mar 2019 Set sail 16 Mar 2019 Veranda Stateroom from $13,995pp Veranda Stateroom from $13,995pp Veranda Stateroom from $28,990pp

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*Prices are per person, in Australian dollars, based on double occupancy, subject to availability and correct at time of printing. Prices based on a Veranda stateroom before complimentary upgrade to Deluxe Veranda on the following departures: Islands of the South Pacific 12 February 2019, Southern Australia to South Africa 16 March 2019 and Sydney to London, via Africa 16 March 2019. Cabin upgrade subject to availability and cabin category may vary. Valid on new bookings only on selected departures. Must book by 31 August 2018 unless sold out prior. For more details visit vikingcruises.com.au www.cruisingnews.com 23 Silversea Expeditions to Cross Fabled Northeast Passage in 2019 Silversea Expeditions is celebrating its One of Silversea's most ambitious 10th anniversary with the introduction expeditions to date, the journey of its first crossing of the Northeast will encompass the UNESCO World Passage – a remote and spectacular Heritage Site of Wrangel Island, where cruising route above the Arctic Circle. polar bears and walruses roam and Few cruise ships have transited the migratory birds nest; Champ Island, passage, which follows the extreme known for the large, mysterious stone coastlines of Asia and Europe and spheres that dot its otherworldly landscape; Tikhaya Bay's Rubini Rock, has long enjoyed a fabled reputation with its stunning basalt columns; and among seafarers. the archipelago of Severnaya Zemlya, Silver Explorer will sail the route, as it famous for its impressive fjords and passes 5,019 nautical miles of dramatic majestic glaciers. seascapes and untamed wilderness The ship will also spend a day on a 25-day voyage. On 10 August navigating as far north as possible, in 2019, the ice-class expedition ship will the direction of the Ice Edge, in search coastal villages like Chukotka's Uelen, sail from Nome, Alaska, to Tromsø, of seals, walruses and polar bears on populated by the Chukchi and Yupik Norway, on a 25 day, once-in-a- ice floes. History buffs will be intrigued lifetime explorative journey through this by a visit to Murmansk, the last city people, will offer immersion in rare challenging region. founded by the Russian Empire. Quaint cultural experiences. ‘Tribute to the King’ Cruise Set to Rock and Roll Again Fresh from the recent resounding ‘Tribute to the King’ cruise for the and his love of ballads and gospel success of the inaugural ‘Tribute to first time, they will enjoy spectacular music. the King’ cruise, P&O Cruises plans concerts by tribute artists in the “For the hundreds of fans who sailed to rock and roll again in 2019 and is Marquee show lounge and in other on the first Tribute cruise, it is clear that giving hundreds more devoted fans venues around the ship, karaoke with in their hearts the King has never really an opportunity to celebrate one of the their favourite songs by the King, watch left the building and they enjoyed greatest ever popular music artists. And a marathon of his Hollywood movies the unique opportunity of taking their this time the cruise, featuring the rock and enjoy culinary delights that he devotion to sea along with so many and roll classics, Hollywood movies would have loved including meatballs like minded fans who have kept and concerts that made The King of wrapped in bacon, southern fried the dream alive,” said P&O Cruises Rock and Roll a still much-loved icon chicken and a peanut butter and President Sture Myrmell. of Twentieth Century popular culture, banana sundae. “It was one of the most popular will be on a larger ship, the 2000-guest There will also be King-related themed cruises we’ve ever conducted Pacific Explorer, with room for 500 more memorabilia and sessions tracing his fans than on the inaugural cruise. and we think the 2019 ‘Tribute to poverty-stricken childhood following his the King’ will be sought after just as The three-night tribute cruise will sail birth in a ‘shotgun shack’ clapboard from Sydney on 17 May and is already house in Tupelo, Mississippi, where his strongly, giving even more fans an on sale with a number of guests who family bought him his first guitar at the opportunity to indulge their passion for enjoyed the recent Tribute cruise ready local hardware, being discovered the greatest exponent of rock and roll to sail again to be immersed in all by legendary Sun Records owner- during his stellar career.” aspects of their idol’s life story, music producer Sam Phillips, his rock and The ‘Tribute to the King’ cruise is not and influence on popular music. roll phase, controversial television officially endorsed by or connected to Along with guests experiencing the appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show, the Elvis Presley Estate.

Carnival Australia Playing Its Part in Achieving Gender Balance in Seafaring Careers are currently taking part in a special retired ship captain, who worked her mentoring program on Pacific Explorer way through the hotel operations ranks on their path to becoming senior deck to her current senior position. officers on Carnival Australia-brand “There are many women working cruise ships. on cruise ships and, during my years The six, pictured with Pacific Explorer at sea, I have always been and felt Hotel Director Melissa Yates (centre), accepted as part of the team,” Melissa are (left to right) Hilary Cassano, Laura said. “But it is distressing when I hear Abbruzetti, Rachel Davies, Lauren women tell me that their experience Brunton, Bryony Rodger and Emma was quite different in other areas of Forbes-Gearey. shipping. It makes me realise how When the Nautical Institute conducted All have previous experience on fortunate I have been.” a Women in Maritime event onboard cargo ships, bulk carriers or offshore With women comprising only two P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer recently, rigs and are now participating in a per cent of the world’s seafarers, the organisation came face to face program to ensure more women have according to the Nautical Institute, the with the future it seeks to achieve in opportunities to take their place as organisation is trying to raise awareness which more women have opportunities professional mariners. They are being of the need to achieve greater gender to become career seafarers. supported onboard Pacific Explorer by balance by addressing barriers that The Institute and its guests were accomplished Hotel Director, Melissa can discourage women from seeking welcomed by six third officers who Yates, the daughter of a recently careers at sea.

24 August 2018 NĀ PALI COAST

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www.cruisingnews.com 25 MSC Cruises Ups Fleet Expansion Plan MSC Cruises and STX France have shipyard. signed an order for the construction of Speaking before a fifth Meraviglia class cruise ship. Due opening the valves to be delivered in 2023, this vessel will to flood the dry be equipped with a new generation of dock where MSC dual-fuel engines designed to run on Bellissima has liquefied natural gas (LNG). She will also been assembled, feature other innovative environmental Pierfrancesco technologies, notably including an Vago, MSC advanced wastewater treatment Cruises’ Executive system compliant with the world’s most Chairman, stringent regulatory standards, including said: “With the the provisions enshrined in Resolution announcement of MEPC.227 for the Baltic Sea. yet another new This announcement was made at a vessel, the 13th unique ceremony held at the Saint- under our 10-year Nazaire shipyard in the presence of investment plan, Bruno Le Maire, the French Minister of we are affirming the Economy and Finance. STX France our commitment to to leave their cabin. This will then also and MSC Cruises celebrated three sustainable growth for our Company. be available on MSC Grandiosa. major ship building milestones: the Steel I say this while three more next- Both ships will offer two brand new Cutting Ceremony of the 4th Meraviglia generation MSC Cruises are now shows from Cirque du Soleil at Sea, class vessel where MSC Cruises simultaneously under construction." created exclusively for MSC Cruises announced that the ship will be named MSC Bellissima will be christened at a guests. This is part of a long-term MSC Virtuosa; the Coin Ceremony of glamorous ceremony in Southampton partnership between MSC Cruises and MSC Grandiosa; and the Float-out on 2nd March 2019 whilst MSC Cirque du Soleil, the world leader in of MSC Bellissima. For the first time in Grandiosa will be christened in artistic entertainment that will result Saint-Nazaire’s history, three cruise ships Hamburg in November 2019. in a total of eight original shows that belonging to a single cruise brand are will be available on MSC Cruises’ under simultaneous construction at the MSC Bellissima will also be the first ship four Meraviglia and Meraviglia-Plus to feature the industry’s first digital generation ships – two different shows cruise personal assistant, Zoe, as a new on each ship. feature of MSC for Me, the Company’s MSC Grandiosa will showcase an even digital innovation program. A bespoke larger Mediterranean-style promenade, device is being designed specifically for the ground-breaking feature unique use in the cabins on board and will be to the Meraviglia and Meraviglia-Plus available in seven languages: English, prototypes, that serves as the social hub French, Italian, Spanish, German, of the ship with an array of shops and Brazilian Portuguese and Mandarin. This specialty restaurants as well as a new digital service will provide guests with bar and lounge, L’Atelier Bistrot that will a simple and stress-free way to find out offer lounge seating with a stage and a information that traditionally is asked in dance floor, impressionist art will be on person at the display in this space and will also have Guest Relations desk. This way the guest "terrace" seating with Parisian Bistrot can find the information without having tables and chairs on the Promenade.

New Uniforms They are the welcoming smiling faces of as it happened as Pacific Explorer cruising and the first people that guests celebrated her first birthday with the encounter when they board a cruise P&O fleet. ship to start making fabulous holiday The ground handlers play a varied memories. role welcoming guests to the terminal, P&O Cruises introduced in Sydney guiding them through the check-in for their dedicated ground handlers a smart new uniform when Pacific process as well as being on hand for Explorer berthed at the Overseas a smooth disembarkation guiding Passenger Terminal. Showing off the passengers through the terminal and on new look with its blue and white the way to taxis, coaches and waiting check was all the more eventful families. Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2018/19 Alaska Cruising Guide Out Now! Norwegian Cruise Line has released its 2018/19 Alaska Cruising Guide, featuring an array of cruise itineraries sailing to the ‘Last Frontier’. Guests will experience scenic glacier cruising like never before, through iconic Alaskan ports such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan onboard the youngest fleet cruising Alaska, including Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Bliss. Guests can discover the benefits of travelling onboard one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s three ships sailing the breathtaking Alaskan region; Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Bliss. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Alaska fleet offers travellers up-to 27 dining options, accommodation ranging from studios for single travellers through to the exclusive – The Haven by Norwegian®, as well as award-winning entertainment such as Broadway Hit, Jersey Boys, featured onboard Norwegian Bliss.

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*Reduced 10% deposit valid until 31 August 2018. °Fares and itineraries are accurate as of 1 July 2018 and are subject to change or withdrawal. Fares shown are for categories G & G2 and are valid for sale until 30 September 2018 unless sold out prior and include all savings. subject to availability. Not all promotions are combinable. ˇFREE Unlimited WiFi includes one log-in, one device, per suite. Concierge Suites and higher receive up to four logins, four devices, per suite. ^Free beverages include selected wines, spirits, beer and champagne. †Free 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel package applies to guests 1 and 2 in Concierge Suites and higher and is not available for new bookings made within 60 days of departure. Not all promotions are combinable and are subject to availability. For full terms & conditions that apply, please visit www.RSSC.com. All rights reserved. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions. Ships’ Registry: Bahamas. ©2018 Regent Seven Seas Cruises. NCL Australia Pty Ltd ABN 8060 7578 781. Printed July 2018. AD180713_EarlyBird_AU P&O Cruises Iona’s stunning Grand Atrium Having recently announced the name centrepiece with its sweeping arrival Smith, wines from around the world are of its latest new ship, P&O Cruises has on each deck." served by the glass. Wine connoisseurs just unveiled details of Iona's impressive The Grand Atrium is a key will be well taken care of with a new centrepiece – a stunning Grand Atrium entertainment space on board Iona experience; Cellar Door at the Glass with uninterrupted panoramic views and the sea will provide an ever House will offer wine talks, tastings of the sea, framed by glazed walls changing backdrop to a wide variety and wine-pairing dinners. Guests can stretching three decks high. The Grand of experiences. From morning coffee relax with unbeatable views as they Atrium is at the heart of Iona, a lively as the sun rises, to evening drinks as it watch impromptu aerial and circus focal point that encapsulates the sets, the Grand Atrium will be buzzing performances in the three storey high spirit of the ship. Spanning three decks with light and life. And as day moves space. each level of the Grand Atrium offers into night there will be a seamless P&O Cruises introduces its first ever a different destination for guests but transition as the designers employ ‘gastro pub' on Deck 8, with views with the same views and natural light. the most modern lighting techniques over the Grand Atrium and the ocean. Iona's glazed Grand Atrium is a new to create a warm and intimate The Keel and Cow is anything but an development for P&O Cruises, created atmosphere. average pub. The unpretentious venue by architecture and interior design P&O Cruises senior vice president, Paul will be delivering all day dining, with practice Jestico + Whiles, the creators Ludlow said: "We've set out to make traditional favourites, perfectly aged of W Hotel (London), Aqua Shard sure the sea is the star on Iona, and the steaks and sharing platters. (restaurant in the Shard) and The Yas design of the Grand Atrium tells you so Hotel (Abu Dhabi). A show-stopping much about how special she is going Deck 6 of The Grand Atrium brings a staircase will take guests through the to be. Balancing intimate spaces choice of places to relax and watch open area, designed to complement with larger social areas, guests will be the world go by. At the Vistas Cafe Bar and reflect the outdoor views. wowed by the three storey high glass there is a selection of treats from P&O Describing the vision, which guests will walls and the ever changing view they Cruises Food Hero and master pâtissier experience when the ship launches reveal. From the moment they step Eric Lanlard. The nearby Emerald Bar in 2020, the project architect Cecilia onto the staircase, I know guests will be will offer a stylish living-room feel, with Vodret said; "The sea becomes the swept away by the beautiful design." premium cocktails and the buzz of a hero of the triple-height space; the The Grand Atrium will be home to Covent Garden venue. sinuous curves are shaped around it, The Glass House (Deck 7). With an Iona is currently being built at the framing and complementing the views impressive wine list and menu curated Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg to outside. The staircase is a sculptural by award-winning wine expert Olly and will be launched in May 2020.

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28 August 2018 EARLY BOOKING FARES – MUST BOOK BY 30TH SEPTEMBER 2018*

HISTORICAL WONDERS ROME to VENICE | 10 days DISCOVER 15 May 2019 – RIVIERA THE BEST OF 2019 Early Booking fares from AU $ 6,110 per guest Includes FREE Internet* plus choose one: 6 Shore Excursions, Beverage Package Europe or US$600 Shipboard Credit COMBINE AND SAVE

PROMENADES & PALACES VENICE to BARCELONA | 12 days 25 May 2019 – RIVIERA Early Booking fares from AU $ 7,170 per guest Includes FREE Internet* plus choose one: 6 Shore Excursions, Beverage Package or US$600 Shipboard Credit

VIKINGS & MONARCHS COPENHAGEN to OSLO | 12 days 11 Jul 2019 – MARINA Early Booking fares from AU$7,790 per guest Includes FREE Internet* plus choose one: 6 Shore Excursions, Beverage Package or US$600 Shipboard Credit

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NORTHERN FRONTIERS OSLO to SOUTHAMPTON | 12 days 23 Jul 2019 – MARINA Early Booking fares from AU$8,640 per guest Includes FREE Internet* plus choose one: 6 Shore Excursions, Beverage Package or US$600 Shipboard Credit

SAVOUR THE WORLD with THE FINEST CUISINE AT SEA™ ABOARD OUR INTIMATE AND LUXURIOUS SHIPS

includes: FREE Internet* plus choose one: FREE Shore Excursions FREE Beverage Package FREE Shipboard Credit Amenities are per stateroom

CALL OUR SYDNEY CONTACT CENTRE ON 1300 355 200, VISIT WWW.OCEANIACRUISES.COM OR CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL AGENT

TERMS & CONDITIONS *Fares and itineraries are accurate as of 1st July 2018 and are subject to change or withdrawal. Fares shown are the lowest available category. The quoted fares are valid for sale until 30 September 2018, unless sold out prior and include any/all savings/upgrades. Airfares are additional. Cruise fares are per person, twin share in AUD and include all taxes, port fees and onboard gratuities. A Cruise Ship Fuel Surcharge may apply and, if applicable, is additional revenue to . OLife Choice offers and fares are valid until 30 September 2018 or until sold out. Any existing booking that is cancelled and rebooked for the same ship and sailing within the Sale period will not be eligible to receive the offer. Guests in the same stateroom must choose the same OLife Choice amenity and amenity must be chosen by final payment. Free Shore Excursions vary by voyage and exclude Oceania Select, Oceania Exclusive, Executive Collection, Food & Wine Trails and Culinary Discovery Tours. Free Beverage Package amenity includes unlimited house wines, champagnes, and beers at lunch and dinner. Free Shipboard Credits are USD per stateroom, based on double occupancy and cannot be redeemed for cash or used for further discount off cruise fare, may be used for onboard services only and any unused credit will be forfeited at the end of the cruise. Free Internet is one login per stateroom and is subject to time and data limitations. Fares are valid only for residents of, and booking through travel agents located in Australia, or through the Australia contact centre and are valid for new bookings only. For full terms & conditions that apply, please visit www.OceaniaCruises.com. All rights reserved. Oceania Cruises is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions. Ships’ Registry: Marshall Islands. NCL Australia Pty ABN 8060 7578 781 OCI180701862 AU www.cruisingnews.com 29 Reunion Time by John & Kerry Treacy On arrival as I was climbing the decks and are most efficient. of Lecce, spanning two millennia and gangway at the Venice Cruise Terminal Our stateroom was identical to the Italy’s spectacular Amalfi Coast. I saw a familiar face – it was the Hotel one we had last time being on Lido Prior to boarding Voyage to Antiquity’s Director, Gerry, whom we had sailed deck which opens out to the pool Aegean Odyssey on 18 May, the with before and he saw and recognised area, beverage making facilities, many day before the Royal Wedding of us and the welcome mat was out for lounge chairs, tables and chairs and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, our reunion cruise on Aegean Odyssey. celebrations held on deck were always we spent five days in Venice. It was Four years had passed since we enjoyed here. an opportunity to revisit many of the enjoyed our 21 day cruise on-board the Our 13 day “Classical Italy & the famous sites – Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Aegean Odyssey visiting Italy, Greece Adriatic” was highly anticipated. Italy Palace, St Marks Basilica, the Grand and Turkey. Carrying an average of and the Adriatic were at the very heart Canal, Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of just 386 passengers the premium class of the Roman Empire and our cruise Sighs and in doing so walk the many Aegean Odyssey is small enough to sail from Venice to Rome was all ancient alley ways that make Venice such an along rivers and into colourful ports of highlights; the imposing palace of the exciting and interesting city to visit. On call inaccessible to mega ships. 3rd century emperor Diocletian in Split, more than one occasion we got lost The service is very personal, the to the perfectly preserved cities of but it was fun finding out way out. atmosphere better centered towards Pompeii or Herculaneum which both On this cruise overnights were making new friends and the guest perished in the same Vesuvius eruption appreciated in Venice and Sorrento. speakers interact with you day and and the little visited but fascinating site night and join the tour groups. Cabins of Butrint in Albania. Other highlights Now to our floating home, at 12,094 and staterooms are spacious and included the Renaissance and tons the Aegean Odyssey is small by well designed offering dedicated solo later artistic treasures of Venice and today’s standard, but excels in delivery. cabins at a low supplement rate which Urbino, the stunning old walled city of The main dining room, the Marco Polo today is well received. They are spread Dubrovnik, once described by George Restaurant provides exceptional food over four decks with a limited number Bernard Shaw as “paradise on earth”, and service. Buffet style breakfast, lunch having balconies. Two lifts service the Puglias Baroque masterpiece, the city and dinner is available at the Terrace

Athena Health Spa

30 August 2018 www.cruisingnews.com 31 The Grand Canal Venice

Cafe with indoor and outdoor seating passion and were extremely well on Aegean Odyssey – they give their and at night a Tapas Bar. The freshly received by guests. guests the absolute best with a unique cooked pizza and pasta are delicious. We were fortunate to catch up with and personal cruise holiday experience. Main meals from the Marco Polo are former crew from our earlier Odyssey We say “keep doing what you are available at the Terrace Cafe each voyage and were welcomed back doing!” evening. At night wine, beer and soft as family. Nothing was too much drinks are complimentary otherwise effort as they went out of their way to On Board Facilities include a choice you can order drinks of your choice at please – always happy and smiling. On of restaurants, three lounges, four bar prices. There is something special our second day the Executive Chef bars, a lecture theatre, Library, about being able to sit outside in the Atlab appeared on the back deck Shop, Internet Centre, Outdoor open and enjoy a meal as the ship and we recognised him. Last time he Pool, Athena Health Spa and Gym, glides along in the cool atmosphere. was the cook in charge of the Pizza Beauty Salon and Medical Centre. Also afternoon tea is served most days and Pasta and really looked after us. All Voyages to Antiquity Cruises and hors d’oeuvres are available in the It was another happy reunion. On our include: Expertly Planned Itineraries; Charleston Lounge each afternoon at 5 first cruise with Voyages to Antiquity and late night snacks at 10.30pm. we were very impressed with the Usually Pre & Post Cruise Hotel The Charleston and Ambassador character of the company, all aspects Stays; All meals on board Aegean Lounges continue on deck 6 from the of our time on board and excursions Odyssey with a choice of two Terrace Cafe and are the gathering were very well organised including the restaurants; Open Seating Dining so venues for tour groups, movies and guides (some were archaeologists). you can choose when, where and shows or just to relax and be with new The ancient digs and cities were with whom to dine; Complimentary found friends. exceptional and caused one to reflect Wine, beer or soft drink with the Cruise Director Richard Sykes an on the knowledge and capabilities of evening meal; Experienced Guest animated, friendly, humorous and these architects, builders and labourers Speakers; Guided Sightseeing zealous performer was much in of yesteryear. Perfection is a word that in most ports of call and choice demand for ShowTime which included comes to mind, also durability, as we of excursions in many ports; a tribute to the “King of Cool” Nat observe some structures today that fall Welcome Cocktail Party and other King Cole, Elvis, Back to the 50’s, Neil down before they are completed. entertainment on board; More time Sedaka, Abba, Billy Joel, Chubby The dress code is casual and relaxed ashore as late night departures are Checker and more. Richard was the during the day and smart casual at planned from many ports; Gratuities organiser for the events on the ship. night – a country club atmosphere. You for cabin and restaurant staff; The guest speakers Robin Cormack, can dress up if you wish. One Language, English is used on Paul Roberts and Angus-Graham Nothing has changed as Voyages to board; Port Taxes and Transfers and Campbell all possess such a wealth Antiquity still offer the same quality Baggage Handling. of knowledge, passionate within their product, they get better with age. chosen field, eager to share their Top marks to all at VTA and the crew Next issue – Places Visited.

32 August 2018 HERCULANEUM

St Mark’s Basilica Venice

www.cruisingnews.com 33 INTERVIEW Jos Dewing Managing Director Voyages to Antiquity talks to Editor, John Treacy

Thank you Jos for the opportunity to talk The itineraries especially the Grand Your crew and staff are wonderful about Voyages To Antiquity Voyages are the drawcard – tell us ambassadors for the company; many Tell us about the history of the company about plans for future cruises over have been with you for years! coming years. VTA as a cruise concept was inspired Our amazing crew are truly the heart of by the novel, “The Middle Sea” by Our Grand Voyages offer FREE round- Aegean Odyssey and something VTA Lord Julius Norwich. This is a book that trip airfares to Europe which is very is very proud of. We believe that Crew tackles time, geography and culture; much something we pioneered many continuity has been a key part of our it perfectly represents what we seek years ago and has proven hugely guests experience as it builds strong to pass on to our passengers. This popular. In addition to the air, we friendships. It sounds cliché but time approach is unique in its founding include so much more, from shore and time again our guests tell us that principles and delivery, and its success excursions to gratuities, transfers to Aegean Odyssey is like a home from hotel stays – the value proposition is comes because there is a desire for this home, and it’s our crew that make it form of experiential travel, which will hard to compete with. We understand feel like that. continue to grow. that it is a long way to come from How do you compete with the larger We operate just one 386-passenger Australia to Europe so longer voyages and bigger cruise companies? ship which gets all our focus. We where you really can immerse yourself have an inclusive and multi award- in every port is key to our itineraries. We aim to deliver true destination winning enrichment programme, And in offering extended land-stays cruising and to do that, passengers which is a luxury for the mind, and pre and post cruise, overnights in port, must feel immersed in their our award-winning land programme overland experiences mid-cruise and surroundings. This requires very detailed is also inclusive. We are 100 per cent more, we feel we have developed planning, practical destination privately-owned and that’s quite a big the perfect travel experience for our experience, and of course delivery. deal as we have no shareholders to Australian guests, at exceptional fares. Our enrichment approach begins at keep happy. Our ethos is very much on Australia is a key market for us and least three months before a cruise customer satisfaction. represents about 30% of our global starts. We send out a detailed guide The ship, Aegean Odyssey is very passenger numbers which means our that contains reading lists, lecture popular and has many repeat Australian guests are never far away topics, and full shore excursion passengers. What is the attraction? from like-minded fellow travellers. As descriptions. We have some of the best VTA represents a style of cruising that we currently only operate one ship, academics and experts in the business is on the up. Informal and inclusive, and we have such a high repeat as close friends, and they also mingle with a ship large enough to lose rate, we continually need to add new with passengers and join tours. We use yourself on, but small enough to feel destinations to ensure our product local guides for port talks and tours like home, where all the crew know remains of interest, for example for and local performers to entertain on your name. Our guests feel a sense 2019 we have added 20 extraordinary board in traditional style. Our Quietvox of the ‘golden age of travel’ when new Grand Voyages for Australians, technology means passengers never they step aboard Aegean Odyssey, including a number of completely miss a word from our experts. Add to which has almost been completely new destinations such as St Petersburg, this the shore excursion graduates and rebuilt. Most people will agree she is The North Cape (and Midnight Sun) our itineraries, and you have a powerful a one-off and that’s what makes us and a return to the Black Sea. We are enrichment programme. different, which is why we believe that always challenging ourselves to find so many guests keep coming back as new places to take our guests and Jos – Any other comments you may well as the amazing past passenger the Australian market is always at the wish to add. offers. We reward returning customers forefront of planning and decision We are very honoured to have won with a host of Odyssey Club benefits, making as it is hugely valuable to us. some prestigious enrichment awards, including exclusive discounts on all What is the future for VTA – MORE SHIPS, most recently ‘Best for Enrichment’ at future voyages, special reunion cruises the 2018 WAVE Awards and ‘Best Small and complimentary wine, Molton RIVER CRUISING? Ship Cruise Line’ at the 2017 British Brown amenities, Wi-Fi and laundry There is no question we are now ready on-board – in fact we have some to add a second ship and that is one of Travel Awards, fending off some very, returning travellers who have topped our current focus’. We are also looking very well known competition to win 200 days at sea and because of this, to develop even more exciting and these, so we would like to believe we we have introduced two new tiers with innovative land experiences and open are getting things right on that front. extra benefits to our Odyssey Club up further destinations for our ship, With 98 per cent (will cruise again) programme as we want to reward our which may well include developing a passenger satisfaction scores, we feel amazing loyal guests. river product too. Watch this space! we are being true to the word.

34 August 2018 AWAKEN YOUR SENSE OF WONDER

LE LAPÉROUSE IS COMING TO THE KIMBERLEY! Explore the oldest of places in the newest of ships

Sail onboard new luxury small expedition ship, Le Lapérouse, the youngest and most environmentally sustainable vessel in the Kimberley, and be one of the first to experience the Blue Eye underwater multi-sensory lounge, a world-first feature. Le Lapérouse’s compact size allows her to get close to shore before launching her Zodiac®. Accompanied by your specialist Expedition Team, explore mangroves inhabited by saltwater crocodiles, venture beneath vertiginous waterfalls, probe rivers that carve through high sandstone walls and view heaving emergent tidal reefs. You may also witness migrating humpback whales and interact with Indigenous Australians who will share their stories of the Dreamtime and extraordinary rock art. Onboard enjoy PONANT’s signature French luxury and ambiance, cool off in thepool , and with an Open Bar, relax, drink in hand, admiring the stunning sunsets, before enjoying fine cuisine. With just 92 staterooms & suites, all with private balcony, Le Lapérouse will be your luxurious floating base camp - small ship expedition cruising at its best.

Book now to save up to 10%* on last remaining staterooms in 2019! DARWIN – BROOME or BROOME - DARWIN: Departs May to August 2019 10 nights in a Deluxe Stateroom from $11,150 pp* for the 22nd July 2019 departure

Contact your Travel Agent or our PONANT Cruise Consultants on: Australia: 1300 737 178 | New Zealand: 0800 44 32 62 [email protected] | au.ponant.com Ponant Bonus discount subject to change based on availability. Ponant Bonus fare per person, in Australian dollars, based on a double occupancy in a Guaranteed Deluxe Stateroom, including port taxes and transfer (Ship to Broome town/airport), yield managed, correct at time of writing – 23/07/2018. Refer to au.ponant.com for T&Cs. Photographs © PONANT Nick Rains, Jean- Philippe Nuel, Philip Plisson. ABN: 35 166 676 517 www.cruisingnews.com 35 SHIP REVIEW

Welcome Home by Kerry Treacy

After having experienced a New Year’s complete with a sitting area for information, much more than a ship’s Cruise on the then largest ship in the five, two large mounted on the wall map. Listed is where you can access world Harmony of the Seas, I was in TV’s, a bedroom able to be closed food right now, always important to no doubt that Symphony of the Seas off with curtains, a king sized bed, passengers as everyone is starving! would deliver an excellent holiday. dressing table adorned with quality As it is my habit to ease into the new As John and myself were born in glass ware and a carved jewellery day, I enjoy room service for breakfast. 1948, 2018 is worthy of celebration. box; huge en-suite with two sinks, wall “Coastal Kitchen” the designated We booked a Sky Class Suite and art work, L’Occitane products and restaurant for Suite guests was open our expectations as we journeyed to most important for me a bath. Ample for breakfast, lunch and dinner plus Europe were very high. A week before hanging space and draws were in two drinks and Hors d’oeuvres from 5pm to departure Jackie and Raj, our onboard rooms, even I could not fill them. 8.30 pm. The restaurant incorporating Concierges, made contact by email A double sized balcony was very much a lounge is a large area, very tastefully to welcome us and explain our appreciated complete with a table furnished and has delightful views entitlements during the cruise. I give full and chairs and lounges. overlooking the water park, down to credit to these two exceptional people As we boarded Symphony of the Seas Central Park and of course the restful who were so genuine, warm and we noted all the similarities to sister ship ocean on both sides of the ship. It is friendly. Time was not an issue as long Harmony of the Seas. only accessible by using your room as all guests were happy and satisfied. Symphony at 228,081 GRT is now key. Royal Caribbean once again the largest ship in the world, can Central Park is still the No 1 showed their mastery of the boarding accommodate 6,680 guests, boasts neighbourhood for me followed by procedure with luggage and room an international crew of 2,200, cruising The Royal Promenade and Boardwalk. delivery well ahead of schedule, as speed of 22 knots and is divided into The gastronomical offerings on board was the case on Harmony. Big ticks all seven neighbourhoods. are second to none and include first round. Having cruised on the Harmony of all, taste, variety and quality of To say I was delighted when opening four months earlier we were able to presentation. We were able to sample the door of our suite would be an navigate all areas of the ship. We thirteen venues, having said that we understatement. I immediately wished really experienced a “coming home” did extremely well. John listed most of our cruise was longer than one week’s atmosphere. For first timers a hand-out these in our June issue. duration. Our palatial suite beckoned “Tips to start your adventure” is full of The ship is a carbon copy of Harmony.

Bar in Coastal Kitchen BIG WONDER Carousel

36 August 2018 BIG HEAD on Harmony PARADOX VOID KITES The Rising Tide – a bar in the shape proceeds to the next level. Captain times bizarre is spot on. The decor is of a ship –ascends to deck 8, and Rick Sullivan who we knew from his like no other with colour and furniture then descends to deck 5. Times are time “down under” on Rhapsody of including the door to nowhere stipulated and the seating is always the Seas and later Explorer of the entered by many including myself just at full capacity well before “take off” Seas and Vijay Singh, the Food and for the heck of it. The mad hatter is time. Beverage Manager, a marvellous man everywhere, is never still and has an One art structure I did love on from Harmony of the Seas on our New abundance of eclectic bits of trivia to Harmony was the “Big Head”. Its Year’s Cruise, catching up with them expand your enjoyment. He may be replacement on Symphony, George took our enjoyment sky-high. Meeting seen in the Windjammer for breakfast Kregar’s Paradox Void and I did not Hotel Director Fernando Jorge also and lunch and viewed me on the Zip have the same connection, although helped make our stay most enjoyable. Line while setting up for the evening. this Kaleidoscopic Maze of mirrors and The Windjammer is a very colourful Wonderland chefs “twist their culinary coloured lights was most impressive. area, so many different food stations, Kaleidoscopes” inventing never before The sculpture has 1,200 laser-cut all offering quality food and featuring seen edible fare. The story begins as mirrored stainless steel triangles and sayings such as eat well, travel often. you “brush” the menu and find your 200 sections of LED light stripes. Two Quirky statements round the decks elements – Sun, Ice, Fire, Water, Earth others sculptures were Marcelo such as unusual chairs, rocking chairs and Dreams and you then decide on Jacome’s Magic Kites, a colourful overlooking Central Park, unique art your food choice for the night. paper like installation consisting of pieces including 3D effects on the walls The show Hiro executed in the Aqua 2,200 intertwined “Kites” and New as you walk up and down the stairs Theatre is a show like no other. York’s SOFTlab’s Big Wonder, an between floors and bright colours all Performers have to be highly skilled architecturally integrated work of art in appeal to me and my particular sense in many areas including water sports, the Solarium comprising of thousands of humour. high flying feats and future thinking of dichroic acrylic elements containing We dined at Alice in Wonderland on choreography. The high performance over 3,820 facets. Ovation of the Seas and were really physical activity is enhanced by the Cruises are always memorable and impressed and as the menu is always musical accompaniment. A rubber when you unexpectedly discover evolving we wanted to sample the neck is required to keep an eye on friends, crew or staff on board from new innovations. To say this venue is all the happenings, as divers appear previous cruises, the enjoyment an experience, surprising quirky, or at in front of you and at the same

Hairspray Hiro

www.cruisingnews.com 37 Mad Hatter

Wonderland

Rising Tide Bar time acrobats on high wires come Johnny Rockets and Sugar Beach achieving this feat. I showed up at into view from the rear. It’s exciting where cup-cake decorating lessons the appointed time and was third in and unpredictable and no two are held. I relived certain stages of my line. We were trussed up after having shows are exactly the same. Guests life including childhood, motherhood stepped into a harness and waddled with reservations must be seated and grand-motherhood as I rode the off to the commencement area. 15 minutes before the show. Those Carousel. Of course children enjoy the Suddenly I find myself first in line as the without bookings are permitted to water parks and the various age group two people before me (younger than enter the venue 10 minutes prior to clubs as well. myself) had decided they couldn’t commencement and maybe lucky The following suggestions were listed conquer the line that day. I hadn’t depending on seat availability. A tip – on one day up until 4.30pm – Vitality don’t sit in the front two rows as there bargained for this as I was going to Stretch, Pilates, Trivia, Acupuncture is a great deal of splashing and you observe them and especially the Seminar, Teeth Whitening, Line Dance might just get wet – bring a raincoat! landing at the completion of the line. Classes, Pamper Party, Sports Court Anyway I stepped up and away I Hairspray, one of the biggest games, Whiskey Seminar, Gaming Broadway hits of our time and went. I have only one complaint. I Lessons, Scavenger Hunt, Champagne wished it had been longer. The ride winner of eight Tony Awards and a Art Auction, Wine Tasting, Port Talks, record breaking 11 Laurence Oliver was exhilarating. Many people line Designer Hand Bag Sale – the list goes Award nominations returns to Royal up to observe this sport and I was on and on and as you can see there is Caribbean in a brand new bigger than besieged by a number of them asking something for everyone and this was a ever production. Tracy Turnblad won’t me to encourage their partners in the port day. stop until she achieves her dream to line who were very anxious. Our grand- Great outdoor sports areas are plentiful dance on the Corny Collins Show, but children said it was a pretty cool thing along with two flow rides, mini-golf, the TV stardom is only the beginning. A feel to do but they didn’t like the stack hat I Ultimate Abyss and the Zip Line for your good favourite not to be missed. had to wear – I didn’t either. As with all cruises you can be as enjoyment. As you can see I love this ship and as I busy as you want or relax and chill- One adventure I was determined to said after Harmony a week on board is out. All ages are cared for and one experience was the Zip Line. After not long enough. area catering for the little people much objection by John I enquired is the Boardwalk. Here you will find very early in the cruise, checked out Next Issue –we meet the Captain, face-painting and balloon twisting, the location, operating times and Hotel Manager and Food & Beverages the Carousel, Boardwalk Dog House, assured myself I was capable of Manager

38 August 2018 SEPIK Warriors

COMMENCING 16.91°S 145.77°E Explore PNG and surrounding islands on our EXCLUSIVE CHARTER of True North

PORT DOUGLAS | CAIRNS | KAVIENG – MADANG

Does visiting unspoilt parts of the world, escaping daily routines, seeing volcanoes, fishing, swimming, snorkelling, diving in pristine waters, flying around in a helicopter and eating fine food with 36 like-minded INCLUSIONS people sound like your kind of holiday? FREE return airport transfers in Australia* If it does then join us in November 2019 on our FREE return airfares in Australia* exclusive Latitude 33 cruise tour, the voyage of contrast FREE return charter flights ex Cairns on board True North. You’ll even have the opportunity 2 nights Niramaya Villas & Spa, Port Douglas * to take the helicopter to Kokoda! 10 nights on board True North inclusive of all gourmet meals on board and daily activities

WATCH OUR VIDEO: bit.ly/sepikwarriors 1 night Shangri-La, Cairns

Latitude 33 | 1300 636 848 | www.latitude33.travel www.cruisingnews.com 39 INTERVIEW

Talking to Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises will be introducing their revolutionary new ship that’s poised to change the way you experience the world in December 2018. It is the first in their new Edge Class of ships designed to leave the future behind. Recently I had the opportunity for a Q&A with Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises – Editor Q – The countdown is on for the December 2018 and Malala Yousafzai anything like Celebrity Edge in our fleet introduction of this vessel – when is the will be the godmother of Celebrity or in our industry. She has exceeded first cruise planned? Where? Edge. Another thing that we are our expectations in every way from We are just a few months away from excited about and very proud of. I transformational features and overall taking delivery of Celebrity Edge, and, couldn’t think of a better person to be design to stateroom features and needless to say, all of us are beyond the guiding light of the ship, her guests automation, culinary experiences, new excited. We have been waiting for the and crew. venue concepts, and a spa like no ship for four years, so the fact that we The enthusiastic response to and other at sea. are this close is an exciting time here at anticipation of Celebrity Edge by press, Celebrity Edge will epitomise and Celebrity. trade and consumers has been more take modern luxury to yet another We take delivery of the ship from the than we could have ever hoped for level. We are especially proud that Saint-Nazaire shipyard, STX France, and we are looking forward to the day we have elevated the five pillars of at the end of October. She will then we can show her to the world! Celebrity in a way that has garnered make her way to Fort Lauderdale’s Port Q – Lisa, How is this ship going to differ an unparalleled response from all Everglades. We will begin our seven from previous Celebrity ships? that have participated in the series night cruises on 9 December, 2018 and I was very involved in designing and of reveals we have had over the past during the time between when we launching Celebrity’s Solstice class fourteen months. Accommodation, take delivery and welcome guests, we and can say first hand that there are Destination, Culinary, Service and will be getting the ship ready, adding many things about Celebrity Edge Design are our five pillars. We have the finishing touches and debuting that will be very familiar to those who partnered with world renowned her to press and trade partners. And, know and love Celebrity and yet at designers like Kelly Hoppen, Tom Wright of course, we will be naming her on 4 the same time there has never been and Patricia Urquiola, and the ship is just

40 August 2018 spectacular. Massage, The Spa is the ultimate in be new to Celebrity. We revealed the Edge will offer 29 culinary experiences pampering at sea or on land. Celebrity Edge culinary experiences in and the cuisine will be second to none We will also be offering other firsts in February in New York to rave reviews – from the main dining rooms which will Fitness with Peleton bikes (available to from consumer and trade press as well feature Mediterranean, Italian, French be brought to suite guests in their room) as key travel partners. and modern-American fare to specialty and fitness on demand. Q – Tell us about the bars and lounges restaurants and the avante-garde Eden Q – Tell us more about the Magic Gorgeous, intimate, refreshing and restaurant. Carpet. enough variety for everyone. There are The Magic Carpet on Edge is an The Magic Carpet is an absolutely 11 unique bars and lounges on board architectural feat with views that can incredible architectural and Celebrity Edge, including the iconic be experienced like nowhere else. engineering feat designed by the Martini Bar and the Eden Bar, featuring The Magic Carpet will be located at extraordinary Tom Wright. Bright orange an array of fresh herbs for the most different decks throughout the day and seen from miles away, it is a imaginative of cocktails. Celebrity’s and cruise. It is used as a destination cantilevered, tennis-court sized feature award-winning wine list expands from platform when positioned on deck two, that will be positioned on different roughly 350 offerings to 500 in total, the an extension of our Raw on 5 restaurant decks throughout the day and evening. result of curating a new Ancient World when positioned on deck five, an wines list, which will include unique and It serves as a luxury embarkation station, extension of our pool deck when on unexpected vintages from destinations a pool deck extension, an al fresco deck fourteen, and a magnificent like Israel, Turkey, and China, as well as dining experience and so much more. location to have “dinner on the Edge” more obscure offerings from India and At its highest point on deck 16, it’s the when it is positioned on deck sixteen. Eastern Europe. ultimate specialty restaurant offering It is also important to note that we will “Dinner on the Edge” for 90 guests. Additional bars and lounges to be also be “taking the rest of our fleet to featured on Celebrity Edge include The The Magic Carpet is a beautiful the Edge” with a more than USD$500 Retreat Lounge and The Retreat Pool enhancement that makes the ship million dollar investment in modernising Bar, for Suite Class guests; The Theatre more distinguishable than any other at the other ships in the Celebrity fleet with Bar; The Casino Bar; The Club; Café Al sea. many features and much inspiration Bacio, The Pool Bar and Edge Cabanas, from Celebrity Edge. That starts in early Q – Lisa, Food is always something very Sunset Bar; and Il Secondo Bacio. special on cruise ships – what are your 2019. Q – No doubt many different types of plans for the restaurants on board. Q – The Spa area sounds that it will be accommodations planned – please a most sought after area of the ship – The culinary options onboard Edge are elaborate please expand. endless. Created from the genius of our Head of Culinary and Michelin-star We’re very proud of our Where do I begin!! Our Spa designed chef himself, Cornelius Gallagher, and accommodations. The design of this by Kelly Hoppen is simply stunning and his team of world-class chefs. There is ship is truly revolutionary as we’ve will offer many new features for us something for every taste and every bought the outside in and the inside and firsts at sea. The Spa on Edge will imagination in the 29 venues dedicated out. Both avid and new cruisers will offer the ultimate in pampering and to food and beverage experiences. appreciate staterooms that erase the relaxation. We will be giving our guests Celebrity is all about opening up the boundaries between the traditional ship the most tranquil, restorative space that world and breaking down borders and stateroom and its veranda, creating will be a destination in itself. we have truly done this with our dining a tangible and seamless connection Featuring more than 124 treatments, 31 experiences. to the ocean with the Edge stateroom featuring the Infinite Veranda. therapists and signature offerings such From the immersive “Le Petit Chef” as the Ocean Spa Wave Massage, Hot adventure, where you’ll witness a tiny Imagine waking up to a blazing orange Mineral Body Boost, Poultice-Powered little animation create your meal before sunrise in Mallorca or looking out from Muscle Release, Zero Gravity Wellness your very eyes, to the Le Grand Bistro, your private plunge pool in your split- reminiscent of a bustling boulangerie- patisserie, with handmade macaroons, artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread available on-the-go, to our new steak restaurant and the amazing new Eden restaurant, there’s a huge array of complimentary and specialty options that our foodie guests will find Richard Fain & absolutely rewarding. Every specialty Lisa Lutoff-Perlo dining restaurant on Celebrity Edge will

www.cruisingnews.com 41 level Edge Villa . The simple touch of an undulating ocean...Does it get any and we will announce more details a button gives guests open-air access better than that? along the way. Rest assured, we will to the sea. With the touch of another Q – Any other features we should know continue to raise the bar for the class of button, guests can take complete about? ships and the industry as we bring all of control of their stateroom and We have a few surprises that we have them into service. personalise everything from lighting to yet to announce. You’ll hear more soon! Q – What is next on the agenda? shades, temperature and service. It has to be experienced to be believed. Q – What are the itineraries? We have some exciting announcements worldwide. Word And even more exciting is our Suite Celebrity Edge will begin homeporting has really travelled about the quality, experience on Celebrity Edge which in Fort Lauderdale at the brand new modernity and openness of our cruises, we are calling “The Retreat”. We have Celebrity terminal. T25 is the first terminal not least in Australia where we still have increased the percentage of suites on ever designed and branded for the highest rated ship according to Edge to 12% of our staterooms. Suites Celebrity. Edge will offer butterfly seven the esteemed Berlitz Guide – Celebrity represent only 5% of our staterooms on night Caribbean cruises over a range our other ships. And we have done this of dates between mid-December and Solstice. We love the Aussies. Their ethos for no other reason other than the fact mid-April. The Eastern Caribbean cruise of sailing beyond, of opening up their that our guests are telling us they love visits San Juan, Puerto Rico; Tortola, world and enjoying good food, good our suite experience and they want British Virgin Islands; and Philipsburg, St. wine and the sea breeze mirrors ours more suites. So we have taken the Maarten. And the Western Caribbean perfectly. entire experience to a new level with cruise visits Key West, Florida; Costa We are happy to share announcements the jaw dropping Kelly Hoppen design Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; and as they happen as we are excited as of all suites, the addition of Edge Villas George Town, Grand Cayman. our guests! and the Iconic suites located above She’ll then move to Europe, where she’ll We also have our beautiful yacht like the ship’s bridge. We have also added offer seven night Italy, France, Monaco ship, Celebrity Flora, being built in the a Retreat Lounge, Retreat Sun Deck and Spain cruises; seven night Spain, Netherlands which will begin sailing France and Italy cruises and 10-Night and our very popular suite restaurant, in the Galapagos in the late spring of Luminae. The Retreat experience on Western Mediterranean and 11-night 2019. Flora is the first ever new build Edge has been so well received we will Eastern Mediterranean cruises. purposefully built for the Galapagos. be adding these elements to our entire It is just lovely and is transforming the fleet with our modernisation program Galapagos cruise market. beginning in February of 2019. “We will more than Q – The Rooftop Garden sounds enticing Q – Lisa, What are the future plans for – Please tell us about the design etc likely have no choice Australia and the South Pacific – will we The Rooftop Garden lures guests out but to add another see another ship to support Celebrity to relax and play. Another fabulous Solstice? area of the ship designed through ship to the Australia/ If we keep seeing the unrelenting love the imagination of the celebrated and support for our ships and crew architect Tom Wright, the Rooftop New Zealand market” down under, we will more than likely Garden is tended daily by a resident have no choice but to add another horticulturist just as our Lawn Club on ship to the Australia/New Zealand Q – I understand Edge is the first of four the Solstice Class ships are. It’s the market. I am hoping your readers make ships in the Edge class – When are the perfect place for guests to enjoy games that decision very easy for us. And I and activities through the day and is others due and please tell about their size and where they are being built. would like nothing more than another home to live music and the outdoor excuse to come and visit! movie-and-meal pairing as part of our All Edge Class ships are being built at “Taste of Film” experience at night. Saint Nazaire, STX France. They will be Thanks again Lisa for this opportunity. Guests will listen to the soulful tunes introduced in November of 2018, Spring Thank you for the interview and for your of a guitarist perched in a tree while of 2020, Fall of 2021, and Spring of 2023. interest in Celebrity Edge. I cannot tell sipping a cocktail and looking out over They will be of the same size as the first, you how much I appreciate both.

42 August 2018 Celebrity Cruises Unveils Details of the Celebrity Revolution Celebrity Cruises has unveiled details With Celebrity Edge, the brand added across the fleet and completely of The Celebrity Revolution, a more introduced an exclusive new sanctuary renovated, now offering the brand’s than USD$500 million reimagining of for all Suite Class guests called The virtual Le Petit Chef experience, the fleet in partnership with more than Retreat, and now Celebrity is bringing created by the world-famous artists 500 leading architects, designers, and its most luxurious experiences fleet- of Skullmapping and presented by engineers designed to bring the rest of wide. Every ship will offer The Retreat TableMation exclusively for Celebrity. the brand’s award-winning fleet to the Sundeck and The Retreat Lounge, both Oceanview Café will be redesigned Edge. designed by Hoppen. In imagining The with an open, airy, marketplace- inspired design offering guests a “We launched The Celebrity Revolution Retreat Sundeck, she has created a plethora of international delicacies, to do one thing – transform the way chic, open-air hideaway with the feel while the main restaurants will undergo our guests experience the world. It of a high-end resort, where guests can unwind on plush loungers, sip cocktails, a redesign, with new textures and new began with the introduction of the finishes added throughout. industry-changing Celebrity Edge, and savour refreshing treats. and continued with the stunning When redesigning the More innovation is on the horizon with The Celebrity Revolution, including: Celebrity Flora,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, accommodations, every detail was Expansion of the new SEA Thermal President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. considered with guest comfort at the Suite – first introduced on Celebrity “Our dedication to improving the way front of mind. Celebrity collaborated Edge – to offer an array of therapeutic guests experience the world knows with renowned international hospitality spa experiences at sea; Exclusive no bounds. We are taking our entire design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates new shopping experiences featuring award-winning fleet to the edge and (HBA) to transform the staterooms on sought-after brands and designers, board Celebrity Millennium, Celebrity giving people the holiday they truly such as Shinola, John Hardy, and Constellation, Celebrity Infinity, and deserve.” Hublot; Elevated bars and lounges, Celebrity Summit, plus the staterooms Celebrity will transform Celebrity including the newly reimagined and many of the suites on board Millennium, Celebrity Constellation, Passport Bar and an expansion Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Infinity, and Celebrity Summit of Celebrity’s popular Gastrobar Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Silhouette to lavish new heights with the help of concept, serving more than 40 and Celebrity Reflection into a visionary designer Kelly Hoppen, MBE. craft beers, creative cocktails, and statement about modern luxury. She will also infuse the newly added gourmet comfort food and More Reflection Suite and Signature Suites All staterooms will feature a fresh, exciting upgrades to public venues all (found today on Celebrity Reflection) chic design, rivaling the world’s best throughout each ship, including The to Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Eclipse, boutique hotels. They will also be Hideaway, Team Earth, The Library, Celebrity Equinox, and Celebrity fitted with Celebrity’s eXhale bedding and more. Silhouette, with her signature style – featuring exclusive luxurious cashmere The first revitalisation will take place a subtle, coordinated fusion of East mattresses, RFID locks, pervasive in 2019, beginning with Celebrity meets West, with clean lines, neutral Xcelerate and Bluetooth capabilities. Millennium, and will continue across tones, and a warm, inviting opulence. Guest-favourite restaurant Qsine will be the fleet through 2023.

www.cruisingnews.com 43 Sea Princess Fresh from a Refit by Chris Frame

The 77,000gt Sea Princess may be approaching her 20th birthday, but she remains as popular as ever. Considered today to be a mid-size ship, Sea Princess carries 1,950 passengers who are looked after by a crew of more than 900. Despite her advancing years, the ship receives constant high praise from Princess loyalists and first time cruisers alike. The vessel has recently been employed in the Australian cruise market, based out of Brisbane, following a refit in Singapore. Chris Frame visited Sea Princess during her Australian season to check out the enhancements and learn what makes this ship so popular. Sea Change: One of four Sun-class told aboard the ship during her time Sembawang Shipyard in Singapore for vessels created for Princess Cruises, wearing the buff-funnel. However, the a major overhaul to prepare her for this the Sea Princess was designed at ship’s time as Adonia was short lived. new chapter in her career. a time when P&O owned Princess With the 2005 introduction of Arcadia Refining a Princess: The scope of works Cruises. The third ship of this design, she was released from P&O and in the 2017 refit touched many major Sea Princess introduced some subtle returned to Princess Cruises under her public areas of Sea Princess and aimed external changes to the class, including original name of Sea Princess. A large to enhance her already pleasing enclosed bridge wings that gave refit was completed at San Francisco’s interior. The ship’s logical and easy her forward profile a bulkier, more BAE Systems yard in 2009. The work to navigate layout is evident upon commanding look. added a variety of new features to embarkation when you find yourself in The Fincantieri built ship sailed for Sea Princess, including The Sanctuary a spacious and brightly lit atrium area. Princess Cruises from 1998 through to – a tranquil spa retreat, as well as Here, the existing dramatic staircase 2003, at which time she was transferred the addition of a large screen on her and tiled flooring has been enhanced along with her elder sister, Ocean top deck which was used for movies by new LED lighting which instantly Princess, to the P&O Cruises UK brand. under the stars. The 2009 refit was well brightens the space, while the adjoining The two ships were renamed Adonia publicised as it featured in the popular public areas have been refreshed and Oceana respectively; with Adonia TV show Worlds Toughest Fixes ‘Cruise with new carpeting, refreshed furniture taking on a role of adults only cruising Ship Overhaul’ episode. Sea Princess and LED lighting. On the lower level, for P&O. Much ado was made about returned to her usual cruising schedule entertainment venues spill out into the the name Adonia; a play on her and enjoyed ongoing popularity. central mezzanine making the whole newfound child-free environment; with However, with the announcement of area highly usable and engaging. There Ad (for Adults) and Onia (for Only). This the ship’s 2017 repositioning to Brisbane, is a positive energy in the room due to was a popular ‘did you know’ story Australia, the ship was sent to the the enhanced ambience and

44 August 2018 a buzz from the surrounding activity, activities and amenities are found families travelling with children, the ship which makes the whole space feel on Promenade Deck. The Princess has emerged with a fully redefined alive. One of the most popular facilities Theatre dominates the forward end kids club experience. Camp Discovery here is Explorers, located on the port of this deck. Seating 600, the theatre is the name of Sea Princess’ under- side of Plaza Deck. Here, barista coffee is home to a new seagoing rendition 18s facility, occupying a location on is available; while located within the of the musical ‘Encore’ which is sure Rivera Deck. Created in partnership cafe you’ll find the shore excursion to entertain passengers after dinner. with Discovery Channel, it includes office. This means awaiting passengers This space is finished in a traditional separate spaces for toddlers, children can enjoy a drink while they browse theatre style, with red-folding seats on and teens. The Treehouse cares for the the shore tour options, rather than a terraced floor that offers excellent little ones, sporting a tree house theme waiting aimlessly to book their trip as sight lines. There’s a modern sound that includes a wooden house and is often the case. This clever design and lighting installation here, while balcony surrounded by walls decorated alleviates a common irritation among large artworks dominate the walls on in forest decals. The Lodge for ages 8-12 cruise passengers. After embarkation both the port and starboard side. The takes on a more mature appearance, most passengers will want to find their Princess Theatre is complemented by decorated to resemble the interior of a cabin. Each cabin and suite aboard a secondary showtime venue. The wood-cabin in the forest. Here, foosball has been refreshed during the refit with Vista Lounge is found at the aft end tables and air hockey is intertwined with the most notable addition being new of Promenade Deck and provides PS4s and large screens for movie nights. beds. ‘Princess Luxury Beds’ have been an excellent location for shipboard Finally installed in each cabin and are aimed lectures, destination speeches and for the older teenagers there is at keeping guests refreshed during their activities during the day. At night, it the Beach House. With a summery cruise. Designed by American sleep hosts smaller-scale shows and cabaret ambience based on teals and sun- expert Dr. Michael Breus (known as ‘The events creating an abundance of bleached woods, this area offers Sleep Doctor’) exclusively for Princess, choice for those wishing to participate parties, dance classes, movie nights or the mattress includes individually in after-dinner shows. Sea Princess’ just a place to chill out. Of note is the wrapped coils which enhances comfort entertainment program has also been new dance floor with sound activated while sleeping. Cabins are decorated enhanced with new features added features which gives the teens control in a modern style, with light coloured for her Australian season. One such over the sound and lighting in their walls, tan tones in the carpeting and addition is the ‘Voice of the Ocean’ space. The lights, for example, activate drapes as well as wooden accents. The show, which offers an interactive when you clap! more luxurious staterooms have raised experience were live performers Relax and rejuvenate: For those looking ceiling features, with mirrors surrounded engage with the audience in a singing for a slower pace the ship has plenty by a wooden crown moulding and competition. The show features live- of spaces where you can just relax central light fixture. . mentoring, entertaining auditions and and watch the world go by. Amidships Be Entertained: Many of the passenger a final judging by an expert panel. For on Promenade Deck you’ll find the

www.cruisingnews.com 45 Library. This is a quite place with a good the area transforms into an exciting and are welcome to visit the restaurant at selection of books and has picture engaging movie venue, complete with a time that suits them within opening windows which overlook the teak-wood popcorn! hours. Diners will have a different table promenade deck that wraps around Feed me: Sea Princess already offered each evening, while your waitstaff will the ship. The Nook Whisky Bar was a wide choice of dining options which change depending on where you are treated to refreshed finishings which have been enhanced further during seated. For those looking for the more enhance the already popular venue. her time in dry dock. As a result, her traditional shipboard experience, the An enviable selection of whisky is on Aussie travellers will be spoilt for choice. Traviata Restaurant has a set-seating offer, while the design of the bar creates The most notable change to eating arrangement. This allows travellers to a quiet and secluded feel, cleverly arrangements has occurred in the share a meal at the same table with the hidden from the main passenger popular Café Corniche. The ship’s same waiters. Both of these restaurants thoroughfare by walls finished in wood pizzeria, the refurbished restaurant has present well, with a refreshed decor veneer. For lovers of maritime history, been enhanced by an expanded of new floor coverings and refreshed the Wheelhouse is an unexpected yet menu that sees it introduce a wider seating complementing their already delightful find aboard the ship. Also range of traditional Italian dishes. The vibrant designs. After dinner, you found on Promenade Deck, it sports ship’s other dining venues have also may like to revisit the Wheelhouse Bar a period decor finished in a nautical been refreshed during the refit and which has introduced a new cocktail theme. The space has been refined in present as if they are brand new. These menu, inspired by the era of American the refit; which sees subtle changes to venues include the alfresco Horizon prohibition; or perhaps you’d prefer the room aimed at further enhancing its Court which sports wonderful sea to try your luck at the Monte Carlo popularity. An original brass telegraph views over the bow of the vessel. Two Casino, which has itself benefited from occupies pride of place on the large buffet areas keep the queues refreshed carpeting and furniture. central wall, while historic imagery and at bay; while a separate steakhouse Final thoughts: In all, the Sea Princess memorabilia from the P&O and Orient on the starboard side is sure to prove appears almost new. She has an Line hints to Sea Princess’ own heritage; popular with Australians. The two main energetic feel about her, with a having been constructed when the 180 restaurants are found lower down passionate crew who are clearly proud year old P&O owned Princess Cruises. in the ship. Proving a more formal to serve. In fact, from her cruise director High atop the ship on Lido Deck, a experience, they are both accessible to her cabin attendants, there is a high new mega screen has been installed from the Grand Plaza. The Traviata and degree of long-term crew who stay for Princess Cruises’ trademark ‘Movie Rigoletto Dining Rooms are situated with the ship year after year; making under the stars’ experience. This high amidships on emerald Deck and Plaza the ambiance aboard feel homely and definition LED screen is so good that it Deck respectively, and offer an at-table welcoming. can easily be viewed in the full sun of waiter service. The Rigoletto provides an Images – Chris Frame and Rachelle the Australian summer, while at night ‘Anytime Dining’ option; where guests Cross

46 August 2018 EUROPE RIVER CRUISING 2019

15 DAYS FROM A Travelmarvel river cruise brings you more of Europe, in premium EUROPEAN * comfort and style. Simply unpack once and discover Europe at your GEMS $5,495 own pace, as we perfectly balance comprehensive inclusions and PP TWIN SHARE free time.

Add a Prague and Paris City Stay from More Value • More Inclusions • More Choice just $2,600* pp ü Cruise on a newly refurbished river ship with FLY FREE* Netherlands exceptional facilities Germany ALL CABINS, Amsterdam ü Expert services of a ravelmarvelT Cruise Director Utrecht 14 ALL DATES Travelmarvel ü Key sightseeing with local guides including a visit Cologne River Ship Brühl to the famous Naschmarkt market in Vienna Miltenberg Prague Rüdesheim Czech Republic 3 Bamberg 3 ü Enjoy ravelmarvel’sT ‘Insider Experiences’ Paris Würzburg Nuremberg for an in-depth discovery Dürnstein Slovakia Regensburg ü NEW! Flexi-Tours give you more choice and free time Passau Melk ü Vienna 41 meals, soft drink, beer and wine included with lunch Austria Budapest Hungary and dinner onboard EUTC15/EUTCPP21 ü ransfers,T port charges and tipping included

Member of Order your or contact your the APT free brochure travelmarvel.com.au/Europe2019 Travel Group today 1300( 015 131 local travel agent

*Conditions apply. SEE: travelmarvel.com.au/SpecialDeals for full conditions. Price is per person (pp), AUD, twin share. Price is correct as at 20 July 2018. Price based on EUTC15: 28 October 2019 (Cat. E). Offer includes an Early Payment Discount of $400 pp. EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT: Tour must be paid in full 10 months prior to travel. Enquire for details. Limited seats on set departures are available and are subject to availability. DEPOSITS: A first non-refundable deposit of $1,000 pp is due within seven days of booking. Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd. ABN 44 004 684 619. ATAS accreditation #A10825. Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd. ABN 44 004 684 619. ATAS accreditation #A10825. TM4653 www.cruisingnews.com 47 River Cruise IN RELAXED LUXURY

Leave the ordinary behind and embrace Europe like never before. Included for every Avalon guest: Experience quiet indulgence and luxury done our way – a little laid back. Our ships create a unique oasis. Step aboard, unpack just once, and be welcomed by a dedicated team who respect your space, yet still anticipate your every need. Let renowned chefs delight your senses with their creations, inspired by local delicacies, with world-class wines. Our contemporary suites feature innovative designs to tempt and welcome you in. Your lush sumptuous bed will entice you to kick back and take in the world as it floats on by through floor to ceiling windows. This is a unique blend of relaxed luxury we call Luxe. Avalon Waterways delivers the difference in how the journey makes you feel, as you wake to a new world every day. Luxurious All meals Beer & wine with Choice of daily Plenty of free time for accommodations on board lunch & dinner sightseeing independent adventures

For more information or to book:

2019 brochure CALL 1300 230 234 out now Visit avalonwaterways.com.au or see your local travel agent

48 August 2018

180725_AW18_CruisingNews_297x420_DPS.indd All Pages 27/07/2018 4:02 PM River Cruise IN RELAXED LUXURY

Leave the ordinary behind and embrace Europe like never before. Included for every Avalon guest: Experience quiet indulgence and luxury done our way – a little laid back. Our ships create a unique oasis. Step aboard, unpack just once, and be welcomed by a dedicated team who respect your space, yet still anticipate your every need. Let renowned chefs delight your senses with their creations, inspired by local delicacies, with world-class wines. Our contemporary suites feature innovative designs to tempt and welcome you in. Your lush sumptuous bed will entice you to kick back and take in the world as it floats on by through floor to ceiling windows. This is a unique blend of relaxed luxury we call Luxe. Avalon Waterways delivers the difference in how the journey makes you feel, as you wake to a new world every day. Luxurious All meals Beer & wine with Choice of daily Plenty of free time for accommodations on board lunch & dinner sightseeing independent adventures

For more information or to book:

2019 brochure CALL 1300 230 234 out now Visit avalonwaterways.com.au or see your local travel agent

www.cruisingnews.com 49

180725_AW18_CruisingNews_297x420_DPS.indd All Pages 27/07/2018 4:02 PM FEATURE STORY

Part 5: Australian River Cruising by Peter Plowman

Hawkesbury Explorer Sydney 2000

Proud Sydney had been operating one of Cairns from the beginning of 1992, eventually was laid up permanently. In night cruises on Sydney Harbour since for which a ship was being built in Fiji. It 1998 the vessel was moved to Goolwa, 1988, which were quite popular in the was to have been delivered by the end and berthed alongside the main wharf warmer months but in winter the vessel of 1991, but would not be completed as a floating hotel. The operation of mostly remained idle. In November on schedule, so Captain Cook Cruises Murray Princess was also suffering from a 1990, Proud Sydney departed for the decided to move Lady Hawkesbury to decline in patronage, so on 13 February Murray River, arriving on 29 November Cairns. Lady Hawkesbury completed 1994 it left Renmark for the last time, at Murray Bridge to join Proud Mary. its final Hawkesbury River cruise on arriving five days later at Mannum, The operating company of both vessels 3 January 1992, and at the same where it would be based in future. On was Proud Australia Cruises, so Proud time Murray Explorer was renamed 20 February Murray Princess began Sydney was renamed Proud Australia, Hawkesbury Explorer II and took over the operating two, three and five night and on 23 December 1990 departed on cruise operation from Brooklyn. cruises along the lower stretches of the its first Murray River cruise, to Mannum However, with demand for Hawkesbury Murray River. and Blanchetown. While some five-day cruises declining, Hawkesbury Explorer In 1995, Sydney was preparing to cruises were operated, Proud Australia II mostly operated shorter weekend host the 2000 Olympic Games, and was primarily aimed at the charter and trips with an occasional five day cruise Captain Cook Cruises ordered a new conference market. During 1991 Proud to Windsor. The results were not up large excursion boat to be built, which Australia had some success in its new to expectations and the last cruise was to be named Sydney 2000, and role, but spent most of 1992 and 1993 to Windsor departed Brooklyn on 15 to protect that name, Hawkesbury idle, and in December 1993 was sold to March 1994. Following a weekend Explorer II was renamed Sydney 2000. a New Zealand company. charter returning to Brooklyn on 25 April, After having some structural alterations Murray River Queen was struggling Hawkesbury Explorer II went to Sydney made to the bow, in late 1995 Sydney at Mildura, in 1991 only operating six Harbour and was laid up. 2000 began one and two-night cruises one-week cruises, and spending a In 1994 the veteran paddle steamer around Sydney Harbour on an irregular short time operating at Renmark when Marion, which made some of the basis. These were mostly group charters, Murray Princess was having a refit. In first cruises on the Murray River in the but there were some commercial October, Murray River Queen went to 1930s, returned to service. After years departures. The vessel was renamed Goolwa and made a series of cruises of neglect, in May 1963 the National Captain Cook's Explorer and given a before returning to Mildura in December. Trust of South Australia had purchased dark blue hull in 1999 when the new Murray River Queen spent most of 1992 the Marion for preservation at Mannum excursion boat was completed. tied up, and in October made another as a static exhibit of the great days Going into the new century there were trip to Goolwa for a series of cruises, of riverboats. In 1989, ownership was three vessels operating regular cruises on returning to Mildura in December. transferred to the people of Mannum, the Murray River, Proud Mary at Murray On 17 January 1993, Murray River Queen and in July 1990 restoration work began. Bridge, Murray Princess at Mannum and departed Mildura for Murray Bridge, On 27 November 1994, the Marion was Coonawarra at Mildura, with Emmy which was to be its new home port. officially recommissioned, being used for Lou at Echuca and Marion at Mannum Commencing on 7 March, the vessel excursions at Mannum and occasional offering occasional trips. Murray River began making two three-day cruises a longer trips along the river. The cabins Queen was tied up at Goolwa, and late week, on Monday, going downstream had been restored to their original form, in 2003 was sold to a consortium from to Wellington, and Wednesday going so there was no luxury, but the overnight Waikerie, where it arrived early in 2004, upstream to Mannum, which could be trips proved very popular. and continued in a static capacity as a combined into a six day trip. At Murray Bridge, for most of 1994 motel and restaurant. Late in 1991, Captain Cook Cruises Murray River Queen operated only one For many years in Tasmania, daytime had a problem with regard to an week-long trip per month for part of the excursions from Strahan to the Gordon arrangement to operate cruises out year, but mostly remained tied up, and River had been operated by several

50 August 2018 Discovery Ruby

Marion Captain Cook Explorer companies, one being World Heritage groups inspected the vessel with a view eco-cruises, with passengers using the Cruises, who in 2004 had a catamaran to retaining it in the cruise trade, but restored cabins, and also charter cruises, cruise boat built in Hobart to operate eventually Coonawarra was sold to a with short excursions at Wentworth two-night cruises. Named Discovery, it private buyer, and this brought cruising during holiday periods. had twelve cabins with private facilities from Mildura to an end. In mid-2011, the Murray River eco-cruise for 24 passengers, and the first cruise In 2007, Murray River Queen made a boat Expedition was sold by the Foord departed Strahan on 1 January 2005. partial return to active service when family to Dennis Sims and his partners. The Gordon River cruises by Discovery it began operating a monthly 4-night attracted good loadings in summer, Under the new ownership the vessel cruise from Waikerie to Loxton, and also reverted to its original name, Proud but in winter numbers dropped off occasional 2-night trips. These cruises Mary, and resumed operating regular considerably. In May 2006, Discovery were discontinued in 2009, and the 5-night and 2-night cruises from Murray moved to Queensland to operate 4-day vessel was sold in 2010 to the owners of Bridge, carrying a maximum of 36 cruises from Hervey Bay around Fraser a caravan park at Waikerie to again passengers. Island until September. In October the serve in a static capacity. In August Gordon River cruises resumed, but in 2017, Murray River Queen was towed Captain Cook's Explorer operated April 2007 Discovery was sold overseas, to Renmark, where it is berthed at the occasional cruises on Sydney Harbour becoming an excursion boat in the wharf as a restaurant. until September 2012, when it was sold Panama Canal. In 2008, a second of the original Murray to Harwood Marine, at Maclean on the In 2006, Proud Mary underwent River passenger boats, Ruby, returned to Clarence River, and renamed Explorer. extensive internal alterations, while the active service. Built in 1907 at Morgan, Despite reports the vessel was to operate dummy sternwheel and smokestacks Ruby had cabins for 30 passengers, overnight cruises on the Clarence River, were removed. The company name and operated along the river until the it remained idle until being sold in April was changed to River of Australia 1930s, when it became a houseboat. 2014 to a company in Malaysia, being Expeditions, while the vessel was In 1968 it was bought by Wentworth moved to Kota Kinabalu. renamed Expedition and now carried Rotary Club and placed in a park as a Today, Proud Mary at Murray Bridge and forty guests in cabins with private tourist attraction. In 1996 a committee facilities. Expedition began operating Murray Princess at Mannum are the only was formed to undertake a restoration boats operating regular cruises on the one eco-cruise a week from Murray program, and on 26 January 2002 Murray River, while occasional overnight Bridge on Sundays, with passengers Ruby was refloated, and moved to the cruises are operated by Marion from able to leave or join on Wednesday at Wentworth wharf, where the rest of the Mannum, Ruby from Wentworth and Blanchetown. work was done. A steam engine built in At Mildura, after more than fifty years 1926 was installed, and on 16 May 2007 Emmy Lou from Echuca. cruising on the Murray River, in June the Ruby steamed on the river for the Thank you Peter for your most 2007 Coonawarra was withdrawn from first time in over 70 years. Since 2008, informative series on Australian River service and offered for sale. Several Ruby has been making occasional Cruises – Editor

Proud Mary Murray Princess

www.cruisingnews.com 51 New Ship on the Mekong Evergreen Cruises & Tours is set to New and exclusive to Emerald launch its first Star-Ship on the Mekong Harmony is the beautiful Lotus Lounge, River – the Emerald Harmony. Citing situated at the aft of the Star-Ship. demand from its growing Evergreen Boasting just 42 Staterooms and Suites, Explorer loyalty database, Angus on board accommodation is similar to Crichton, Director Sales, Marketing and Evergreen’s European Star-Ships, with Product for Evergreen Tours advises: four lead-in Emerald Staterooms, 32 “Our guests are keen to explore new Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites, four rivers but want the comfort of a brand Grand Balcony Suites and two Owner’s they know and trust. As part of making Suites, each boasting a wrap-around the decision where to build our next terrace featuring a hot tub. Star-Ship, we spent a lot of time talking with our Explorer members, to find out Another innovative feature is the Star- where they would like to travel with us Ship design itself. Unlike most similar next”. sized Mekong river ships, the Emerald Harmony will be built to allow access The new Star-Ship, with a beautiful to the centre of Ho Chi Minh City, contemporary design, will fuse cleverly meaning guests will not be required to Minh City to Siem Reap, the 17-day with Asian-inspired luxury, to create an be coached in from outside the city. Treasures & Temples of Vietnam & on-board perfect harmony. Features Cambodia river cruise and tour, from will include signature pool, an Asian- In the dedicated Evergreen South Hanoi to Siem Reap, and the 21-day themed Horizon Bar & Lounge with East Asia brochure to be launched in luxurious soft furnishings plus, the Australia in September 2018, Evergreen Grand Tour of Vietnam & Cambodia Reflections Restaurant which will have will offer three unique itineraries river cruise and tour, which includes a locally-inspired menu that showcases including the 13-day Majestic Mekong stops at Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, native cuisine from the region. Discoverer Cruise, taking in Ho Chi Hue and Siem Reap. Discover the wonders of Imperial Russia with Scenic countries in the world. As Winston Scenic’s 15-day Jewel of Russia takes in Churchill once said, Russia has always highlights including the Winter Palace, been “a riddle wrapped in a mystery home to Russia’s Imperial family; the inside an enigma.” Today there is simply Church of Transfiguration with its 22 no better way to traverse this land than timbered onion domes; the fascinating If the World Cup has done one thing, it along its majestic waterways on board World War II Museum in Moscow; and has been to showcase the rich wonders Scenic Tsar with only 112 guests. a private Russian ballet concert at the of Russia as a vast and endlessly Discover the wonders of Russia in luxury magnificent Palace of Prince Vladimir. fascinating wonderland just waiting to with Scenic on the 15-day Jewels of 2019 departures are still available. be explored. You can experience this Russia cruise along the Volga River country from St Petersburg to Moscow between St Petersburg and Moscow. in ultimate luxury on board Scenic Tsar, From the might of the Kremlin and a boutique vessel unique to the Scenic the Red Square, to the treasures of fleet. From the beauty of St Petersburg Catherine’s Palace and St Basil’s to the splendour of Moscow, Russia Cathedral, Russia is both magnificent remains one of the most intriguing and compelling. Returning from Massive Reconfigurations Tauck has officially welcomed the from 118 passengers to 98 per vessel – a the ships’ second dining venue, The ms Treasures and ms Esprit back into 17% reduction. Bistro, has been upgraded with its own its riverboat fleet following a massive The Treasures and Esprit will sail on dedicated kitchen and chef. On each reconfiguration of the vessels’ interior Tauck’s cruises along the Rhine, Main ship, the Bistro has been renamed spaces that has resulted in enlarged and Danube rivers, including its popular Arthur’s in tribute to company chairman cabins and reduced passenger count. “Amsterdam to Budapest by Riverboat” Arthur Tauck Jr., and its expanded The Treasures and Esprit are the last of itinerary. menu will continue to provide more Tauck’s four 110-meter ships to undergo Another significant enhancement casual alternatives to the fine dining the radical transformation. Tauck’s can be found on the Treasures’ and selections offered in the ships’ main two other 110-meter ships, the ms Esprit’s Diamond (upper) Decks, where Compass Rose restaurants. Sapphire and ms Emerald, were similarly reconfigured a year ago. The Treasures and Esprit were fully gutted in a “down-to-the-studs” refurbishment, with the most dramatic Classified change occurring on their Ruby (middle) Decks, where 30 150-square- Ship Memorabilia for sale foot cabins in each ship’s original Cruising News reader Lindsay Johnston has for sale configuration were replaced by 20 Ship Memorabilia – china..silverware..glassware..books..menus.. larger cabins measuring 225 square spoons..postcards..photos..posters.. feet. With the total number of cabins shipmodels..etc-etc. reduced from 59 to 49, each ship’s Phone: 07 5522 8318 or email [email protected] overall capacity has been reduced

52 August 2018 BREAKING NEWS As this issue of Cruising News goes to press a number of breaking news items have come to hand. We will publish these items in detail in our next issue. Royal Caribbean Completes Acquisition of Silversea Cruises Shares – The investment unites two leading players in the cruise industry and fills out RCL’s portfolio of cruise brands across all key market segments. (See earlier story on page 5) The companies also announced Project Invictus, a multi-year Diocletian's Palace initiative to take Silversea’s ultra-luxury offerings to the next level. Project Invictus enhancements range from product upgrades to magnified ship revitalization programs. 2 Next-Generation LNG Ships for Princess Cruises – Fincantieri has signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with Princess Cruises for the construction of two next-generation 175,000-ton cruise ships which will be the largest ships built so far in Italy with deliveries scheduled in Monfalcone in late 2023 and northern spring 2025. The vessels will accommodate approximately 4,300 guests. More Kiwis than ever before Cruising – Over the past 10 years, New Zealand ocean cruise passenger numbers have risen by an average of 14.7 per cent a year. While the 2017 growth was not as high as reported in the prior year, the outlook remains positive for future growth in the New Zealand ocean cruise passenger market, well ahead of more established cruise markets such as the USA (4.7%), Europe (2.5%) and the UK/Ireland (0.5%), and ahead of New Zealand’s international holiday visitor growth (6.5%). The growth in 2017 was led by an increase in New Zealanders cruising locally in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, up 14.1 per cent, to 65,302. New Zealand’s growth rate saw the nation increase its market penetration rate slightly to 2.2 per cent, retaining its ranking of sixth in the world against more established cruise markets.(Source CLIA) Princess Cruises has unveiled new details for its new ship – Debuting in the Mediterranean in October 2019, the 143,700-tonne Sky Princess will include the best of the stunning features found on its three sister ships – , and Majestic Princess – as well as new offerings that represent an evolution of the current ships’ designs. New for Sky Princess will be the addition of a Wakeview pool on its aft decks, two new deep-tank top deck pools, a restorative Retreat Pool, and more Jacuzzis than previous Royal-Class ships including two Jacuzzis cantilevered over the deep-tank pools. 2018 Asia Cruise Trends – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has released their 2018 Asia Cruise Trends, a comprehensive analysis of the cruise industry within Asia. “Asia once again showed impressive results in 2017 with Visiting Split, Croatia most Asian source markets registering double-digit year- Our cruise on Aegean Odyssey took us to Split, the second on-year growth,” said Joel Katz Managing Director for CLIA largest city in Croatia, with just over 200,000 inhabitants, and Australasia & Asia. Asian sourced ocean cruise passenger the largest city of the region of Dalmatia. numbers hit another record high in 2017 with 4.052M taking It lies on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea and is an an ocean cruise (up 20.6 per cent). Asia accounted for intraregional transport hub and popular tourist destination, about 15 per cent of total global ocean passenger volume the city is linked to the Adriatic islands and the Apennine in 2017. Mainland China maintained its dominance as a peninsula. key source market, accounting for almost 60% of all Asian passengers. Most of the Asian markets registered double- Our ship was able to dock within a short walk to the lively digit year-on-year growth. Between 2012 and 2017, Asian city centre with its wide boulevard beside the shore line and cruise passengers grew from 775,000 to nearly 4.052M, extensive marketplace. almost a 40 per cent compound annual growth rate Home to Diocletian's Palace, built for the Roman emperor Celebrity Edge Sea Trials – in 305 AD, this amazing palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On visiting you will find it is a vibrant warren of museums, galleries, shops and restaurants mingled with The above stories in medieval fortifications, pre Romanesque churches and detail in our next issue Gothic chapels. Our tour included a visit to the Diocletian’s - Editor massive octagonal mausoleum. Statue of bishop Gregory of Nin

www.cruisingnews.com 53 Thank you to Mike & Cassandra Bartlett for these photos – L to R Top to Bottom of page – Abramovich A Project Yacht, Le Lyrical at Kotor, Riviera and MSC Opera at Valetta, Oosterdam at Rhodes, Crystal Espirit at Venice, Celestyal Olympic at Kusadasi, Rhapsody of the Seas at Venice, Sea Dream I at Malaga, Aegean Odyssey at Oporto, Star Flyer at Gibraltar, Silver Muse at Giardina Naxos and PhotoGALLERY Noticeboard at Venice.

54 August 2018 The Rob Henderson Doug Cremer& Collection

From the archive I’ve chosen this 5 November 1930 image of the ’ Orontes approaching the still building Sydney Harbour Bridge. It is mentioned in the archive that on this date the Orontes was used to test the clearance under the road way of the bridge. A very historic photograph – Rob Henderson

The Ultimate World Cruise In May Viking announced its most comprehensive itinerary to date with the new Ultimate World Cruise, which will span 245 days, six continents, 59 countries and 113 ports, with 22 overnights and a full circumnavigation of the globe, making it the longest-ever continuous world cruise itinerary. Departing from London on 31 August 2019 on Viking Sun, this grand eight-month journey will mark Viking’s third voyage around the globe and will nearly double the length of the company’s previous world cruise Singapore itineraries. Guests will also have the option of choosing one of two shorter segments including Viking World Treasures, a 127-day sailing from London to Los Angeles that visits 33 countries and 61 ports and Viking World Wonders, a 119-day journey from Los Angeles to London that visits 29 countries and 55 ports. Destination highlights include: Mumbai, India; Panama City, Panama; Luxor, Egypt and eight all-new Viking ports in South America. “For more than 20 years we have been offering guests the most culturally immersive journeys available in the industry and we are pleased to announce the most extensive itinerary in our history,” said Torstein Hagen, New York Chairman of Viking. “Our World Cruises offer guests the rare opportunity to unpack once and explore dozens of the best destinations on earth – at a value that is unprecedented in the travel industry.” All three of Viking’s world cruise itineraries include Business Class international airfares, transfers, onboard gratuities and service fees and Silver Spirits beverage package. Plus, for bookings made by 31 December 2018, each guest will receive up to $4,000 in shore excursion credit for any optional land programs and up to $2,000 in shipboard credit, which can be used toward optional tours, spa services, onboard shops and beverages. Sydney

www.cruisingnews.com 55 that will enable more efficient passenger ACA around government regulations disembarkation. and how they minimise the impact of We are delighted with the strong speaker barriers to future growth with particular line-up confirmed for our Conference focus on how these impact expedition with presentations focusing on the cruising. theme – “Forging Stronger Relationships.” Other interesting topics such as Wide-ranging keynote sessions and panel infrastructure development, government discussions will look at how different and environmental regulations will be sectors of the industry are working covered under our theme. collaboratively towards the future growth of the industry. The conference and AGM will be held at the award-winning Cable Beach Club Sture Myrmell – President, Carnival Resort & Spa, situated on the world- Australia and newly appointed Chairman of CLIA, will lead off presentations from famous 22km-long Cable Beach, offering From the ACA desk: a number of cruise line executives a stunning backdrop to the event. Other local venues such as the Broome Surf WA Tourism Minister, who will join us this year to discuss how Life Saving Club and the Mangrove Paul Papalia has they can continue to work with ACA confirmed he will and our members to increase the Hotel will also host events showcasing open the 22nd passenger experience both on board the spectacular coastal location which annual Australian and on-shore. Sture will discuss a global is now a drawcard for domestic and Cruise Association and national view of the industry and international passengers on cruise Conference (ACA) future plans for his cruise brands, with itineraries. being held in Broome, Western Australia particular mention of opportunities for With multiple airlines servicing the region, mutual success. Susan Bonner, newly next month from 12-14 September. Broome can be accessed from several appointed Managing Director, Australia The Minister’s attendance is welcome Australian capital cities; during the peak and New Zealand for Royal Caribbean recognition of the fast-growing WA season (April-October) direct flights are International, will share the challenges cruise market which has seen the state available from Melbourne, Sydney and of operating big ships in our region and featuring on an increased number of discuss future opportunities. Other cruise Brisbane as well as from Perth all year passenger itineraries. line executives including Dean Brazier round. The regional port of Broome welcomed from Cruise and Maritime Voyages in Attendees are encouraged to confirm 15 cruise ship visits last year showcasing the UK, Timothy Littley from Seabourn, their registration at https://ors.eventsair. the fascinating indigenous and pearling Bruce Krumrine from Princess Cruises and com/australian-cruise-association-2018/ history of the region as well as the iconic Michael Mihajlov and Capt. Mike Drake regocc/Site/Register landscapes through shore excursions from Carnival Australia, will talk about Further Details – and all media enquiries: for their passengers. These will also be the important relationship between ship available to conference attendees and shore when planning destination Jill Abel, Chief Executive Officer as part of the pre-event networking activities. Australian Cruise Association program. The port has also just secured Ports Australia, CEO, Mike Gallagher will Tel/Fax: +61 3 6223 7334 Federal Government funding to purchase be discussing the “Blue Highway” and Mob: 0419 511 966 an all-tide gangway system for the port how their organisation is working with [email protected]

It is our time to blow Katz on this, he warned that Auckland the cruise industry and these are well our New Zealand infrastructure must keep up. Submissions attended highlighting the importance cruise horn! In the are in to support the Auckland dolphins that New Zealand places on our cruise last month we have to accommodate the larger vessels visitors and the fact that they want each reached some that we are now currently losing instead and every cruiser to make the very most real cruising highs. of attracting. The New Zealand Cruise of their time here and indeed the end Recently in Auckland, Association along with other interested goal is that they come back to our shores onboard Pacific parties is endeavouring to keep the for that coveted longer visit. Jewel, Joel Katz MD pressure up. Auckland is currently lagging Finally we also have another new port on of CLIA Australasia announced that a behind Tauranga, Picton, Dunedin, our horizon with the recently announced record number of New Zealanders chose Wellington and Napier, all ports that have call of Regatta to Whangārei in 2021. to cruise in 2017 with an 8.7% jump on invested in their port infrastructure and New Zealand is port rich and continues numbers and he stated that we rank enjoy alongside visits from Ovation of the to provide strong and exciting itineraries as one of the worlds’ fastest growing Seas (currently our largest cruise vessel however there is always a need to provide cruise markets. The news that 98,000 kiwis visiting our shores) and all the economic new experiences and alternatives. Cruise cruised in 2017 was well received by a benefits that brings. lines often have a substantial percentage packed audience of NZ tourism industry of loyal repeat guests and with the professionals. Another welcome statistic An area for us to hold our heads high continued welcomed increase in ship calls was that the age bracket of kiwis taking are the recent announcements that 3 there are some instances of the beginning a cruise 40% were under the age of 50, New Zealand ports, Akaroa, Wellington of port congestion – new ports greatly boom! This market is important for our and Tauranga have made it in to the top add to easing this potential challenge country in terms of adding to regional five cruise destinations in Australia and before it really arises. dispersal and often at a time when most New Zealand in this year’s annual Cruise Exciting times! needed in off peak. It has created the Critic Cruisers Choice Awards. These are home porting of Pacific Jewel and with testament to the communities in each Debbie Summers its continued upward trajectory then we region and everyone has their part to Executive Director IDNZ/Chairman can and should expect further growth. play. NZCA spend a lot of time doing wide New Zealand Cruise Association However, and we are 100% behind reach community presentations regarding [email protected]

56 August 2018 Forging Stronger Relationships The 22nd annual Australian Cruise who will discuss the challenges Dean Brazier from Cruise and Maritime Association Conference and AGM (12- of infrastructure from a nautical Voyages (CMV) will talk about the 14 September) is being held this year management perspective and discuss important relationship between ship in Broome, Western Australia. Themed where Australia can make changes and shore when planning destination “Forging Stronger Relationships”, the to increase port calls in our regional activities. wide-ranging conference sessions will destinations. Ports Australia, CEO, Mike look at how different sectors of the Gallagher will be discussing the “Blue The conference and AGM will be held industry are working collaboratively for Highway” and how their organisation is at the award-winning Cable Beach a greater gain. working with ACA around government Club Resort & Spa, situated on the A record line up of cruise line regulations and how they minimise the world-famous 22 kilometer-long Cable impact of barriers to future growth with executives lead by Sture Myrmell – Beach. The event will be opened by President, Carnival Australia and newly particular focus on how these impact the WA Tourism Minister, Paul Papalia, appointed Chairman of CLIA, Susan expedition cruising. and commence on Wednesday, 12 Bonner, newly appointed Managing Other cruise line executives including Director, Australia and New Zealand for Timothy Littley from Seabourn, Bruce September with a range of networking Royal Caribbean International, Capt. Krumrine from Princess Cruises, Michael tours planned to showcase the Mike Drake from Carnival Australia Mihajlov from Carnival Australia and destination.

P&O Cruises Australia Digital Team Excels P&O Cruises couldn’t be more proud prides itself on delivering exceptional of its award-winning Digital Team after cruise holiday experiences while taking out a double honour for the doing everything we can to exceed excellent user experience delivered guest expectations," said P&O Cruises online with pocruises.com.au. The President Sture Myrmell. In addition team had already won the Mumbrella to the awards, the digital team, Mike award for 'best user experience in Ainsworth (not pictured) and (l to travel' to then win the same category r), James McKeown, Meg Wilson, across all industries represented in the Madeline Wong and Georgia Elliott, awards program. are driving the commercial success of "As a cruise operator, P&O Cruises P&O’s online site."

CLIA Australasia says Appointment “Choose Cruise” Globus family of brands’ Australasia office has Cruise Line International Association announced the appointment of Gai Tyrrell as its new (CLIA) Australasia has announced an Managing Director. “We are thrilled to welcome Gai exciting name change to its ‘Plan a Tyrrell to the Globus family of brands. She brings with Cruise Month’, to encourage travellers her an incredible breadth of experience and a deep to book a cruise rather than just plan appreciation for the importance of our travel agency one. Choose Cruise aims to promote partners, which she rightly views as a top priority,” said cruising as the preferred holiday style Scott Nisbet, president and CEO of the Globus family and encourages travellers to book of brands. “The Globus family of brands is at a very their dream cruise holiday via a CLIA- exciting point in its 90 year history and Gai will play a accredited travel agent. big part in leading us into the future as we envisage CLIA Australasia and Asia Managing continued growth across our Avalon, Globus, Cosmos Director, Joel Katz said ChooseCruise and Monograms brands.” added Peter Douglas, director of sales Globus family was successful in the past and of brands. Gai Tyrrell most recently held the positions of regional director for generated unprecedented traction on Australia and New Zealand, Hawaiian Airlines and Vice President and CEO, Sabre social media. Pacific. “Choose Cruise is an opportunity for travel lovers to learn more about the New Managing Director takes Reins different cruise options available, and at RCL Cruises Australia and NZ to take advantage of promotions and value-adds from cruise experts," Mr Susan Bonner has officially moved into position as Katz said. Vice President and Managing Director, Australia and New Zealand for Royal Caribbean International. She Choose Cruise includes a combination is responsible for the business operations of Royal of trade, consumer and media activities, as well as a dedicated Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and ‘Choose Cruise’ microsite, which will Azamara Club Cruises in the region, reporting to feature relevant cruise information, Gavin Smith, Senior Vice President International. experiences and CLIA agent search. “With the highest market penetration for cruising of Choose Cruise takes place every any country, I’m looking forward to continuing the October with CLIA offices around the incredible momentum our brands are experiencing in world working with CLIA accredited this region,” said Susan, “We truly believe there is a cruise out there for everyone, agents and CLIA member cruise lines and our three distinctive lines offer award-winning cruise experiences to put us to promote cruise holidays. top of mind when Aussies consider their next holiday.”

www.cruisingnews.com 57 Published February, April, June, August, NNE WI R Sun Princess Nov 20: October & December AUSTRALIA Radiance of the Seas Oct 3: Darwin Pacific Jewel Nov 25: Nov 3, 27: Publisher/Editor Majestic Princess Sept 8: Celebrity Solstice Oct 20, 29: Noordam Nov 4, 12: John Treacy Sea Princess Oct 18: Nov 8: Celebrity Solstice Nov 25: 2 0 S 1 7 D Sun Princess Nov 10: Amsterdam Nov 27: C R Associate Editor R A Wellington U AW ISE Y Amsterdam Nov 18: Melbourne Kerry Treacy INDUSTR Radiance of the Seas Oct 2: Norwegian Jewel Nov 20/21: Sun Princess Oct 2: Nov 2: Advertising Majestic Princess Oct 12: Nov 3: Port Douglas Noordam Nov 5, 11: John Treacy & Associates Aug 15, 22: Oct 10: Noordam Oct 27: Nov 20: Ovation of the Seas Nov 7: Ph + 61 7 3349 6788 Pacific Jewel Sept 20: Oct 4, 18: Pacific Eden Nov 5/6/7: Carnival Legend Nov 19: PO Box 2005, Mansfield Sea Princess Sept 25: Pacific Explorer Nov 5/6/7: Pacific Dawn Nov 6/7: Sea Princess Nov 3: Queensland 4122, Australia Yorkeys Knob Carnival Spirit Nov 6/7/8: Sun Princess Nov 27: Email: [email protected] Pacific Dawn Aug 14, 21: Oct Celebrity Solstice Nov 10: Golden Princess Nov 14, 27: 9, 17: Web Site Carnival Legend Nov 13, 23, 26: Majestic Princess Oct 3, 20, 26: Pacific Jewel Sept 19: Oct 3: www.cruisingnews.com Pacific Jewel Nov 27: Celebrity Solstice Nov 3: Nov 11, 30: Design & Layout Norwegian Jewel Nov 24/25: Burnie Celebrity Solstice Nov 16, 26: Sea Princess Oct 3: CINCO Solutions Cairns Napier Pacific Aria Aug 26: Sept 10, 24, Hobart Noordam Nov 6, 10: Proudly Published in Australia by 29/30: Nov 12/13, 19/20: Sea Princess Oct 4: Radiance of the Seas Nov 28: Pacific Eden Aug 17, 24, 27: Majestic Princess Oct 14: Nov Pacific Explorer Nov 30: Sept 6: 1, 20: Sea Princess Nov 4: Pacific Explorer Aug 25/26: Radiance of the Seas Oct 18/19: Sun Princess Nov 26: Sea Princess Sept 26: Oct 21: Ovation of the Seas Oct 31: Majestic Princess Oct 21: Nov 25: Sun Princess Nov 13: Celebrity Solstice Nov 24: Amsterdam Nov 22: Noordam Oct 29: Nov 18, 24/25: ABN 71 083 652 019 ISSN 1447 - 2112 Carnival Legend Nov 28: Tauranga | Townsville Noordam Nov 7: Pacific Aria Aug 31: Sept 11: Adelaide Ovation of the Seas Nov 9: Also PUBLISHER of special custom editions for Pacific Eden Sept 7: Sea Princess Oct 6: Clean Cruising and Worldwide Cruise Centres. 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58 August 2018 Now you have read the news it is time to book with your friendly Worldwide Cruise Centre cruise specialist. www.worldwidecruisecentres.com.au

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