PRICE $8.25 (INCL GST) FEBRUARY 2013 ISSUE 81

16TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION ESTABLISHED 1998

Predictions - Asia will account for 3.7 million passengers in 2017 and grow to 7 million by 2020 – see Page 4 Featuring a comprehensive coverage of Global Cruising for Cruise Passengers, the Trade and the Industry www.cruisingnews.com

Editor’s Say Rice on behalf of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) made an informal presentation to Captain Taylor presenting him with a Certificate of Appreciation. New Ships

As we start our 16th year of publishing Cruising News we are encouraged by the continued growth of the industry world- wide. The current South Pacific cruise season with the new ships is attracting a large number of new cruisers along with many repeat passengers. Then we turn to THIS ISSUE Asia where predictions are for the industry there to account for 3.7 million passengers Fronthighlights Cover: Images from Celebrity in 2017 and grow to 7 million by 2020. We Cruises/Eugene Tan and Ian Hunter look forward to keeping you informed with Fantastic Cruise Season...... P 4-6 the latest news and information throughout MSC Christening...... P 16 the year. Future of QE2...... P18 Congratulations ICCA Industry Awards...... P 20 Ann Sherry AO SeaDream II & Places Visited...... P 28-30 Sydney’s Macquarie New Look Celebrity Millennium.....P 42 University has River Cruising News...... P 46-48 awarded an 3 Photo Gallery...... P 50-51 honorary doctorate March will see the christening of two new to Carnival ships, the MSC Preziosa and AIDAstella. MSC CEO Ann Sherry Preziosa will be christened by screen legend AO in recognition Sophia Loren in the Italian port of on of her significant 23 March and in the wings will be sister ships contribution to MSC Splendida and MSC Opera. AIDAstella, the government and corporate sectors. the 10th member of the fleet, will have 10 Ms Sherry was cited as a true leader godmothers on the stage for the christening credited with transforming industries that ceremony on the evening of 16 March in she had led. The Doctor of Letters award Rostock-Warnemünde. acknowledged her standing in the business Serving the Community community and the wider community. Ann On Board Celebrity Solstice P30-32 Sherry was appointed CEO of Carnival • has announced “On Australia in 2007 and her time at the helm Deck for a Cause,” a new shipboard giving

has seen the transformation of the cruise program that will benefit six international 2013 FEBRUARY industry and double digit annual growth in cancer organisations located in the United consecutive years. States, Canada, Australia, Netherlands, Germany and United Kingdom. • By the end of 2012, MSC Cruises’ three- and-a-half year partnership with UNICEF and their joint “Get on Board for Children” initiative has raised two million Euros for an innovative project designed to Rescue by Orion P20 combat poverty and inequality by helping ensure that disadvantaged Brazilian children gain access to quality education. • Here in Australia P&O have an exciting partnership with Save the Rescue Operation Children – see story on Page 37 Recognised Recognising Orion’s involvement in the complex and successful rescue of solo Happy Cruising MSC Splendida & Places Visited P34-36 round-world sailor Alain Delord from the Southern Ocean SAR operation, John John Treacy

Plus the latest news and Breaking News - Royal Caribbean International has taken a major step in the information on Global development of the cruise line’s next generation of cruise ships when the first piece Passenger Cruising of steel was cut for the first of two Project Sunshine ships. To celebrate the milestone, Royal Caribbean announced the names of the two new ships – Quantum of the Seas, set Proudly Published in Australia by to debut in 2014 and Anthem of the Seas, which will follow in 2015. The Astor will join Cruise & Maritime Voyages in November this year under a three year seasonal charter to operate twice yearly ocean voyages between the UK, Australia and South Africa and the launch of a summer season of cruises from Fremantle commencing 12 December 2013

www.cruisingnews.com for ABN 71 083 652 019 Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the information published is correct ISSN 1447 - 2112 News Updates & Photo Files Voyager of the Seas departing Sydney – Robert Miller

Cruising Industry Presentation on Voyager of the Seas Continues to Grow The current cruise season has introduced many newcomers to cruising and is receiving an incredible number of repeat passengers that cruising statistics for the year 2012 when released at the end of April should show impressive growth for the industry. Ports of call throughout Australia, New 4 Zealand and the South Pacific have benefitted enormously from the cruise ships sailing the region. There is an unprecedented choice of ships available and in the future we should see more of the big ships arriving. Voyager of the Seas, Celebrity Solstice, Carnival Spirit (now based in Australia) and Oosterdam have led the way introducing new experiences for passengers. The quality dining and on board features on all ships are proving to be the attention grabbers as passengers decide on which ship to cruise. It is definitely the beginning of a new era in cruising from Australia. It is now hoped that port facilities will be improved to handle the increased number of ships. As this magazine goes to press many ships on round the world cruises are still to arrive – Europa, Aurora, Seabourn Quest, Queen Victoria, Balmoral, Arcadia, Costa Delziosa, Pacific Princess, Queen Mary 2, Marina and Ocean Princess – visiting various ports in the region. Columbus 2 – Jonathan Crabb Unfortunately Saga Ruby has had to cancel her world cruise because of mechanical problems and is expected to sail a reduced scheduled taking in South America. Unfortunately we will now not see Saga Ruby again as FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY she retires at the end of the year. Voyager of the Seas, Celebrity Solstice and Oosterdam are already booked to return for 2013/14 season. Others with port bookings include Celebrity Millennium, Volendam, Diamond Princess, Amsterdam, Europa, Seabourn Odyssey, Silver Shadow, Aurora, Seven Seas Voyager, Columbus 2, Silver Whisper, Seabourn Sojurn, Pacific Princess, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, , Amadea, Artania, Crystal Symphony, Astor, Balmoral and Ocean Princess and booked during May is The World. Meanwhile the first-ever cruise forum by the Hong Kong Tourism Board was held recently with more than 150 international professionals from the cruise industry, including representatives from the region’s port authorities and tourism bureaux. Through seminars, site visits, networking sessions and other activities, the participants exchanged the latest information on cruise developments in Hong Kong and Asia to develop business collaboration. Among the speakers were industry heavyweights Mr Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman and CEO, Carnival Asia; Mr John Tercek, Vice President, Commercial Development, Royal Caribbean Cruises

Drawing of New Hong Kong Terminal Celebrity Solstice – Sydney – Eugene Tan 5

Ltd; Mr Bruce Krumrine, Vice President of Shore Operations, Europe & Exotica, Princess Voyager of the Seas and Seabourn Odyssey – Robert Miller Cruises; Mr Antonio de Rosa, Vice President, Asia Fleet Operations, Costa Crociere S.p.A; Mr John Stoll, Vice President, Land & Port Operations, Crystal Cruises Inc; Mr Michael Pawlus, Director, Strategic Itinerary Planning & Scheduling, Silversea Cruises Ltd; Mr Graeme Adams, Vice President, Voyage Planning, Port & Land Programs, SeaDream Yacht Club; Ms Ong Huey Hong, Director, Cruise, Singapore Tourism

Board; and Dr Zinan Liu, Chairman, Asia Cruise 2013 FEBRUARY Association. Support for cruising in Asia is expected to take a dramatic turn upward according to Carnival Asia CEO Pier Luigi Foschi. He said “Asia will account for 3.7 million passengers in 2017 Silver Shadow – Robert Miller and grow to 7 million by 2020 with the real growth coming from China”. The Asia Cruise Association said that about 1.7 million Asian passengers cruised in 2011. Development of new cruise facilities are under way with the opening of a terminal in Singapore last year and Hong Kong later this year. During the forum the international delegates and members of Hong Kong’s Advisory Committee on Cruise Industry visited the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal with phase one to open in June 2013 The industry will be watching the Asia/Pacific market for the growth trends.

Drawing of New Hong Kong Terminal Crystal Symphony – Robert Miller Costa neo Romantica – Robert Miller

Rhapsody of the Seas – Auckland Ports Carnival Spirit – John Treacy

6

Exciting New Cruises Carnival Spirit a 2014 for Summer 2013-14 Melbourne Cup Starter Following a tremendous 2012-13 cruise season Royal Caribbean Carnival Cruise Lines has announced a International has announced the addition of three new cruises in its brand new itinerary for Carnival Spirit in

FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY 2013-14 Australasian summer season, including two new South Pacific 2014. The race that stops the nation will sailings on Voyager of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. Due to the soon stop the newest and largest ship to growing demand for shorter cruises, Royal Caribbean will also now offer call Australia home, when Carnival Spirit an additional three-night Weekend Sampler cruise on Voyager of the Seas sails to Melbourne for the Melbourne Cup. in January 2014. The round-trip itinerary will depart Sydney “Voyager of the Seas has been a huge hit with Australians and we are on Sunday 2 November 2014, arriving into experiencing unprecedented demand for South Pacific Island and Sampler Melbourne on Tuesday 4 November 2014. cruises. Because we love giving our guests what they want, we’ve altered During their three-night stay onboard next season’s cruises on Voyager of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas in Melbourne, guests will be able to see to provide more of these popular itineraries,” said Adam Armstrong, everything the fashion capital of the country commercial director, Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia. Voyager of has to offer, or can venture a little further the Seas will now offer a new three-night Weekend Sampler ‘cruise to afield for shore tours such as lunch and nowhere’, departing Sydney on Friday 10 January 2014. She will then sail a wine tasting in the Mornington Peninsula, or swimming with dolphins at new 11-night South Pacific cruise departing Sydney 13 January 2014 and Sorrento; all before Carnival Spirit’s return to Sydney on November 9. calling in and . Also up until 24 February 2013, Carnival Cruise Lines is offering Rhapsody of the Seas will now offer an 11-night South Pacific sailing guests who book a Carnival Spirit holiday up to $300 cash back departing Sydney 11 February 2014. Rhapsody’s new sailing will call at per cabin* on a range of cruises sailing throughout 2013 and the tropical ports of Noumea, Mare and Isle of Pines, New Caledonia; and 2014.(Conditions apply) Mystery Island, Luganville and Vila, Vanuatu.

Queen Mary 2

Moving Forward Princess Cruises has launched its 2014 winter program featuring the cruise line’s first week-long itineraries from Brisbane. Following the success of its summer sailings from Queensland, the cruise line has announced that it will make its first winter sailings from Brisbane in 2014, with the 77,000- ton Sea Princess offering new seven-night cruises to the Great Barrier Reef and Pacific Islands. The week-long itineraries will depart Brisbane every Sunday between 18 May and 15 June 2014 including two cruises to the Great Barrier Reef with calls at the Whitsundays, Cairns and Port Douglas and three cruises to New Caledonia and Vanuatu. The program also includes the first world cruise from Australia to visit South America, with a 104 night voyage on Dawn Princess making maiden calls to Peru, Ecuador and Easter Island. Departing Sydney on 18 May Sun Princess will debut several industry firsts for the Japanese market – including innovative 7-day cruises from the northern coastal Sea Princess town of Otaru, located outside of Sapporo, as well as two new 8-day itineraries from Kobe. These itineraries will offer cruise options to appeal to passengers looking for a week-long cruise vacation, and the northern Hokkaido itinerary will offer a refreshing summer destination. The ship will also make maiden calls in the Japanese islands of Ishigaki, and Amami Oshima, as well as Abashiri and Hualien, Taiwan. Princess Cruises has added several new exotic cruise options in early 2014 giving passengers additional holiday choices in the popular destinations of South America and the South Pacific. Options include a new South America grand adventure aboard Crown Princess – the first such voyage for the vessel, as well as new departures of the line’s signature Tahiti and cruises plus additional Hawaii and South Pacific voyages

8 Dawn Princess

2014, the world cruise will call at 40 destinations including maiden visits to Yangon in Myanmar, Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo, an overnight call to Lima, Ecuador with the chance to visit Machu Pichu and return calls to Rome, New York and ANZAC Cove. Other highlights of the 2014 winter program include: a 20 day cruise departing Sydney on 31 August 2014 on Dawn Princess features maiden calls to the ports of Alotau, Doini Island and Kiriwina Island plus visits to Pacific ports including Champagne Bay, Noumea and Vila and Sea Princess’ 15-night roundtrip Indonesian sailing from Fremantle on 3 August 2014 with the first calls to Sulawesi Island, and ’s second largest city, Surabaya, as well as a visit to Komodo Island, home to the Komodo dragon. Expanding onboard Pacific Princess. During Crown Princess’ South America debut, Japan Cruise Program in 2014 - Underscoring its commitment to the passengers can enjoy highlights such as an overnight call in vibrant Rio growing Japanese cruise market Princess will bring a second ship to the de Janeiro during the city’s famous Carnaval celebrations, sailing around FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY market featuring sailings from three homeports and plans to significantly legendary Cape Horn, an optional overland tour to the dramatic Incan expand the size of the cruise market in Japan to approximately 100,000 ruins of Machu Picchu, and Princess’ first call to Ilhabela (“beautiful passengers. The Japan-built Diamond Princess will join Sun Princess for a island”) – an island that lives up to its name with lovely beaches and cruise program from three homeports – Tokyo (Yokohama), Kobe, and natural beauty. The new 49 day voyage departs Fort Lauderdale on 15 an industry first, Otaru near Sapporo on Hokkaido. Sailing between April February 2014 sailing first to Brazil, then around Cape Horn along the and October in 2014, the two ships will offer 42 departures featuring nine Chilean Fjords and up the Pacific coast to Los Angeles. Shorter segments unique itineraries ranging from seven to nine days. The two ships will visit of 16 to 33 days are also available. To add more of the line’s signature more than 20 ports in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Russia. Diamond Tahiti and French Polynesia voyages, Pacific Princess will move to the Princess will homeport in Tokyo (Yokohama) for an extended season of South Pacific to offer three additional departures of this popular 10-day 9-day cruises that include visits to Taiwan, South Korea, Hokkaido, Russia itinerary. The ship will also offer new departures of a 16-day New Zealand and 15 Japanese ports, including five new itineraries created especially for and South Pacific sailing from Sydney to Tahiti, departing February 25, the ship. During the popular holiday period of Golden Week, Diamond 2014.Other new cruises include a 12-day Hawaii and Tahiti sailing from Princess will feature a special 10-day itinerary that includes opportunities Tahiti to Honolulu, and a 10-day Hawaiian Islands crossing from Honolulu to visit several festivals plus enjoy a special call to Nagasaki, home to ending in Vancouver, British Columbia. Many voyages can be linked for a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries where the ship was built, to celebrate Grand Adventure of 22 to 26 days. Diamond Princess’10 year anniversary. Third Oasis-Class Vessel Royal Caribbean has announced that it has executed a contract with STX France to construct a third Oasis-class vessel for delivery in mid-2016. This order is consistent with the plan announced by the company in October to build a sister-ship to the very successful Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. “The Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas have fundamentally transformed the cruise experience for our guests,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “These ships have consistently generated outstanding guest satisfaction ratings and continue to produce superior financial results. We are thrilled to be adding a sister to this extraordinary class of vessels at a compelling price. Being back building in France just adds to the pleasure.” The contract is subject to satisfaction of financing and other conditions. STX France has also provided the company with a one-year option for the mid-year 2018 delivery of a fourth Oasis-class vessel at similar pricing. Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas are the largest and most revolutionary cruise ships in the world. Architectural marvels at sea, they span 16 decks, encompass 225,282 gross registered tons, carrying 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. The ships sail weekly from their home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Staff presented Captain Adriano Binacchi with a surprise birthday Cake onboard Carnival Spirit

Happy Anniversary! Marina Debuts in Australia ’s Queen Victoria has celebrated a special milestone – her Oceania Cruises is set to reveal its luxurious ship Marina down-under in fifth anniversary. Since departing her homeport of on March. Marina is sailing her way to Australia with first port of call in Hobart on her maiden voyage on 11 December 2007 – a day after being named 9 March followed by Melbourne and Sydney. Carrying 1250 guests, onboard by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall – she has sailed over half a million facilities include 10 dining venues (six of which are open-seating gourmet nautical miles, called at 196 ports in 63 countries and carried almost restaurants), an array of bars and lounges, a full-service Canyon Ranch 250,000 guests. In all, 20,300 bottles of champagne – enough to fill six SpaClub and fitness centre, swimming pool and hot tubs. The exclusive Bon Olympic-size swimming pools – have been drunk and 9,125,000 cups of Appétit Culinary Center, available on Marina and sister ship Riviera, features tea and 1,460,000 scones have been served since 11 December 2007. 24 fully equipped work stations with induction cook tops and convection To mark this special birthday, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall made a return ovens. Oceania Cruise’s culinary enrichment program Culinary Discovery visit (her third in five years) to her ship on December 13, 2012 in Southampton Tours provides guests the opportunity to explore local food markets in and spend time meeting crew before unveiling a specially-commissioned small groups alongside an expert chef. A feature report on Marina will portrait of herself and cutting a special birthday cake. (See story below) appear in our April edition - Editor Cunard’s President and Managing Director Peter Shanks said Cunard was 10 very proud of Queen Victoria, her crew and her achievements since she entered service. Partnership Expanded Royal Caribbean International and DreamWorks Animation are expanding their ground-breaking partnership, announcing that Mariner of the Seas will offer the DreamWorks Experience when she arrives in her new Asian home in May 2013. Mariner of the Seas will be the sixth ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet to offer this experience. The DreamWorks Experience FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Special Portrait Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall came face-to-face with her own image in Southampton when she unveiled a specially-commissioned portrait of herself on board Queen Victoria – the Cunard liner that The Duchess named five years ago in December 2007. Her Royal Highness was making a special return visit to Queen Victoria to mark the fifth birthday celebrations. The portrait was painted by noted royal artist Richard Stone. Cunard’s President and Managing Director Peter Shanks said, “We are was introduced recently on Voyager of the Seas. “The DreamWorks delighted that Her Royal Highness joined us for such a special day in the Experience has been a huge hit with Australian guests of all ages on life of the ship and her crew. Queen Victoria is very much The Duchess’ Voyager of the Seas, and we are delighted that this popular feature is being ship and we are honoured that she continues to display such an interest offered to guests on another innovative ship that will be based in our in the ship and her crew”. neighbouring region,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Royal This new portrait of The Duchess is in keeping with the Cunard tradition Caribbean Cruises Australia. of commissioning commemorative sculptures or portraits for display on Every Royal Caribbean ship with the DreamWorks Experience features board each ship named by a member of the Royal Family. The three- parades, themed activities and events based on DreamWorks Animation’s quarter length artwork shows The Duchess seated and dressed in a popular feature-film characters, including Po of “Kung Fu Panda;” Shrek, cream suit with ruffle detailing. It replaces a photograph of The Duchess Fiona and Puss In Boots of “Shrek;” and Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, which she signed just before naming Queen Victoria, and will be given and the Penguins from “Madagascar”. Each ship also is equipped with a a prominent place in the ship’s Grand Lobby. Renowned artist Richard 3-D movie theatre playing the latest DreamWorks Animation films, such Stone was commissioned by Cunard to paint the new portrait. He has as the summer blockbuster “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted in 3-D”. been a portrait painter for 35 years and has painted most members of the Royal Caribbean’s younger guests in the complimentary award-winning Royal Family. The Duchess sat for Stone three times at Clarence House. Adventure Ocean children’s program can also enjoy an exhilarating line- up of activities, games and adventures rooted in the popular DreamWorks Only Weeks for Norwegian Animation films. Additionally, guests can enjoy DreamWorks Animation programming on a dedicated RCTV channel in every stateroom and can Breakaway’s Arrival also meet their favourite DreamWorks characters over the DreamWorks , also known as “New York’s Ship” for its New York Character breakfasts in the main dining room, and take advantage of plenty inspired amenities and features, will arrive in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, of photo opportunities throughout the day. Royal Caribbean recently on 26 April for the start of her European inaugural events and then on 29 April travels to the UK for a one-night preview. The ship will depart released an online video about the DreamWorks Experience Character Southampton on 30 April and embark on her maiden voyage, a seven-day Breakfasts. The DreamWorks Experience was first launched aboard Allure transatlantic crossing to . The inaugural events will culminate of the Seas in November 2010, with beloved character Princess Fiona of with the ship’s spectacular christening in New York City – Norwegian the “Shrek” franchise inaugurating the ship as godmother, and continues Breakaway’s year-round homeport – on 8 May followed by a two-night to impress guests and receive accolades. As well as on Voyager of the Seas, exclusive inaugural cruise. One of New York’s most illustrious and beloved the award-winning entertainment has since been expanded to Oasis of icons, The Rockettes, are set to serve as the ship’s Godmothers. the Seas, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas.

Oosterdam Upgrade

Chefs’ Cooking Holland America’s Oosterdam recently spent 2014 CALENDAR School Series - time at the Garden Island Dry-Dock during 2Silversea has unveiled its 2014 Voyage Calendar, th Acclaimed culinary which general maintenance and repairs were encapsulating a dazzling 20 Anniversary Collection trainer David Bilsland, carried out which included replacing old carpets of more than 200 sailings aboard its fleet of ultra- a former instructor and some soft furnishings. Photo David Barnett luxury small ships. Karen Christensen, General at the prestigious Le Manager and Director Sales and Marketing Cordon Bleu culinary Australasia for Silversea, commented: “2014 is a school in London, is again set to host Newbuild Named big year for Silversea, as it marks the company’s th Silversea’s exclusive “Relais & Châteaux L’École The first block of the hull was laid on 10 December 20 anniversary. We are celebrating this milestone des Chefs” interactive cooking school in 2013. at ’s Marghera, Italy, shipyard forming with a fascinating selection of voyages offering On 14 ultra-luxury voyages across the globe, the central part of , the future more choice than ever for our well-travelled Chef Bilsland will present a program developed flagship of . Diadema in Italian guests, and this brochure provides an overview in collaboration with Jacques Thorel, a consulting means “tiara” and the name was selected for the of this exciting voyage collection.” In 2014, more Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux. Silversea enjoys new ship that will serve as the crown jewel and than 500 destinations will be on offer to suit the the privilege of featuring the only “Relais & flagship of the Costa Cruises fleet. During the most discerning of clients. 12 new destinations will Châteaux L’École des Chefs” cooking school at ceremony, the block weighing approximately 496 be included in the itineraries: Melilla and Almeria sea. The innovative program -- which is offered tons, measuring 51.5 feet wide by 95 feet long, in Spain; Haugesund, Norway; Eskifjordur and completely free of charge -- provides guests with was lifted by a crane and laid in the dry dock Djupivogur in Iceland; Koror, Palau; Ponce, Puerto a special culinary curriculum, including hands-on where the ship will be built. Construction and Rico; Trujillo, Honduras; Alotau, Papua New Guinea; instruction, and entertaining events. fitting out will continue until 30 October 2014, Kavala, Greece, and the Canadian destinations of New Shorter Voyages - In its continuing the scheduled date of delivery. Construction of Sept-Iles and Trois-Rivières. Other highlights of mission to provide guests with more choices, Costa Diadema will employ approximately 1,000 the 2014 Voyage Calendar include Silversea’s 2014 Silversea Cruises has just announced a new shipyard workers plus another 2,500 employees World Cruise aboard Silver Whisper - an epic collection of eight shorter cruises for 2013 of allied industries. About 400 contracted 113-day journey from Los Angeles to Barcelona of four- to seven-day voyages to Northern suppliers, most of which are Italian firms, will be departing January; a Mediterranean Europe and the Mediterranean. These cruises involved in the project, especially regarding fitting voyage in May taking in both the Cannes Film are designed for time-strapped working out the ship’s interiors. The Costa Diadema is Festival and the Monte Carlo Grand Prix; a series professionals, travellers who like to combine a 132,500 gross tons, 1,004 feet long, 122 feet in of Silver Shadow sailings in the South Pacific, and cruise with a land program, and individuals who the beam, the ship will carry 4,947 guests and visits by Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver may be new to luxury cruising. 1,253 crewmembers, with 1,854 guest cabins. Wind to Myanmar 2013 KIMBERLEY 3030 EXPEDITION CRUISING The Ultimate Kimberley Expedition Cruise 10 Nights Darwin to Broome v.v

With Australia’s Coral Princess Cruises you’ll discover all of the icons of the Kimberley Coast over 10 unforgettable nights cruising between Darwin and Broome. In the north, discover the majestic King George River, with its towering 80 metre twin falls and the mysterious Bradshaw Paintings of Bigge Island. Explore the Mitchell Plateau and cruise the Kimberley’s iconic rivers, before exploring beautiful King Cascades, remarkable Montgomery Reef and the amazing natural phenomenon of the Horizontal Falls in the south. SAVE 15%* Cruising aboard your choice of our purpose-built small ships Oceanic Discoverer or Coral Princess, you’ll discover all of the or No Single Supplement* region’s icons, and with two landings most days you’ll enjoy the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Kimberley. Aboard our unique ‘Xplorer’ expedition vessel and our fleet of zodiacs, and with the expert local knowledge of our experienced guides you are assured of making the most of every minute of your expedition. Throughout your cruise you will discover the very best of the Kimberley and with Coral Princess Cruises you will do it all in unrivalled style and total comfort.

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*Conditions: Offer is subject to availability and is not combinable with any other discount. Valid for new bookings only from 01 October 2012 or until sold out. 15% savings (for first time travellers) and 25% savings (for Coral Princess past guests) are valid on 05, 12, 15, 22 and 26 April 2013 departures only. No single supplement is valid for genuine single travellers only on selected departures and this special is not combinable with the 15/25% discounts. Prices are per person, twin share and are cruise only. Enquire for further details. ACN 010 908 417.

excursion boat assured OR Single travellers cruise at twin share price (no single supplement)!+

Royal Princess Update New Look and Refreshed Joining the Princess fleet in June 2013, the new is sure to Spaces for Azamara Journey delight its 3,600 passengers with exciting new innovations and signature Azamara Journey, the second of Azamara Club Cruises’ twin boutique features which include a cantilevered walkway and bar on the top deck, ships to undergo refurbishment recently emerged from an eight-day dry an enlarged Sanctuary bar, an adult-only pool and the largest Movies dock in Singapore’s Sembawang Shipyard. The vessel is now complete with Under The Stars screen Princess has built so far. The new youth and teen a refresh of all public spaces and staterooms and an elegant new “Azamara facilities onboard Royal Princess have just been revealed and they offer an Blue” exterior hull. extra level to the onboard experience for young passengers, with all age Ship-wide renovations included new carpets, upholstery, and a new colour groups finding more space following the provision of dedicated outdoor palette in public spaces reflecting the cruise line’s inviting atmosphere, areas, including a new teen lounge and a special fun area just for kids under new mattresses and upgraded veranda furniture for suites and staterooms three. The Princess Pelicans (ages 3-7) group will enjoy group activities like movie nights, a new mini air hockey table, a special area for arts and and a resurfaced pool, with new sun loungers and pool towels on the crafts programs and a new indoor play structure. In addition, they’ll have outer decks. On the culinary front, guests can now enjoy a new caviar a new outdoor play area, which includes toys, games, tricycles and a new and champagne bar within Aqualina, one of the ships’ two specialty 14 playground. Shockwaves (ages 8-12) will feature a dedicated outside dining venues, as well as a new Chef’s Table concept featuring three wine area complete with lounge chairs and a variety of fun games, including air degustation menus – Italian, French and Californian. At Mosaic Café, the hockey, skeeball and exciting game stations. They will have their own lounge ships’ central gathering spot, guests can purchase a freshly brewed cup of with a giant TV, a DJ Booth and arts and crafts tables with activities led by bespoke coffee. Princess’ youth counsellors. Also they can hang out and enjoy their own The Spa and fitness centre was refreshed with a new steam room, showers, pizza and ice cream parties or kids-only dinners. The Remix (ages 13- and state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio equipment, while the Casino Bar 17) area for teens will feature a Princess DJ booth where music lovers can was also expanded and enhanced with new furniture. Furthermore, a range of enhancements were made behind the scenes in the staff and crew areas to add to the comfort of the cruise line’s most valuable asset. 10th Anniversary On 6 January 2013 Oceania Cruises marked its 10th anniversary, kicking off a year of special events. Founded by cruise industry visionaries Frank Del Rio, Bob Binder and Joe Watters in 2003, the line’s mission was to deliver destination-rich itineraries, “best in class” cuisine, an inviting country club atmosphere, and luxurious accommodations all at an extraordinary FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY value. With the addition of Marina in 2011 and Riviera in 2012 to the fleet of Regatta (2003), Insignia (2004) and Nautica (2005), Oceania Cruises has built an entirely new segment of the industry with its elegant, award-winning, mid-size ships and exceptional personalized service. “Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Oceania Cruises is an achievement made possible by the loyalty of our guests, employees, crew and travel partners,” said Frank Del Rio, the line’s founder, and chairman and CEO of parent company Prestige Cruise Holdings. “Because of their support, the next 10 years and beyond are filled with just as much promise and opportunity to continue to evolve the Oceania Cruises experience and the modern cruise vacation for our guests.” The company will celebrate fleet-wide with a special 10th Anniversary dessert called ZEN, a Manjari Chocolate Bar with Milky Gianduja-Yuzu and Hazelnut Croquant featured in the Grand Dining Room and a menu of Canyon Ranch SpaClub® 10th anniversary treatments available on all ships. Throughout the year, Oceania Cruises’ fans will find profiles of crew create their own playlist. In addition, there’s a new lounge area, featuring members who will also pass the 10-year mark with the company on the line’s games like foosball, skeeball and the latest video games. A brand new Facebook page. Nearly 100 crew members are reaching this milestone. outdoor lounge offers cool club lighting, contemporary seating, a great new wading pool, and music perfect for parties under the stars. Teens will also West Coast Short enjoy sports competitions, late night movies, hip hop dance classes, teens- only “mocktail” party, formal dinner and the always-popular video game Cruise Program tournaments. Carnival Cruise Lines will expand capacity on the West Coast with the introduction of year-round 3 and 4 day cruises on the 2,052-passenger Ship Named Carnival Imagination from Long Beach, California beginning 26 January 2014. The official naming ceremony for Carnival Cruise Lines’ new Carnival The move will bring the total number of Carnival ships operating from Long Breeze took place Saturday, 8 December 2012 at Port Miami. Serving as Beach to three. Carnival Imagination will offer 3 day cruises to Ensenada, the ship’s godmother was Tracy Wilson Mourning, founder of the Miami- based Honey Shine mentoring program, who initiated the breaking of the Mexico, departing on Thursdays and 4 day voyages to Catalina Island and traditional bottle of champagne on the ship’s hull during the invitation-only Ensenada departing on Sundays. The vessel’s sister ship, Carnival Inspiration, event. Following its inaugural season in Europe, the 130,000-ton Carnival will continue to offer a similar program from Long Beach with 3 day cruises Breeze began sailing year-round six and eight day Caribbean cruises from departing on Fridays and 4 day cruises on Mondays. Additionally, the 7 day Miami on 24 November 2012 becoming the largest Carnival Cruise Lines Mexican Riviera and 15 day Hawaii programs from Long Beach previously ship ever based in South Florida. operated by the will continue on the Carnival Miracle features a variety of exciting innovations including the seasonally from October 2013 through April 2014. Together, these ships will Thrill Theatre, an immersive multidimensional experience that makes carry approximately 550,000 guests annually from Long Beach. Prior to the viewers feel like part of the movie, as well as spectacular exciting top- start-up of its new West Coast schedule, Carnival Imagination will offer a deck attractions like the WaterWorks water park and SportSquare, an 16 day Panama Canal cruise departing Miami 10 January 2014 with ports of open-air recreation area with a suspended ropes course, a two-level call on this voyage to include Grand Cayman, Montego Bay, Cartagena, Punta miniature golf course, and more. Arenas, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. The beauty of the Red Sea aboard MSC Armonia Lynne Clarke, Managing Director of MSC Cruises Australia took the chance to combine the celebration of New Year’s Eve with the beauty of the Red Sea a board MSC Armonia, below is a snapshot of her journey.

With so many wondrous sites to visit, the chance to capture a destination on my bucket list, The Red Sea over New Year’s Eve was magical, so my daughter Brianna and I fly to MSC Armonia for a 7 night cruise. Sharm el Sheik is a great port to embark the cruise. Its landscape, whilst rugged and tormented holds a mesmerising beauty. Sharm itself consists of many resort hotels built along the shoreline of the Red Sea. We embarked on MSC Armonia prior to lunch, a good indication of what was to be an important part of our journey (food!). After a pleasant lunch, we made our way onto the beach of the Dead Sea. For some reason I had anticipated warm water, however it was not so. An experience to remember! You have to lower yourself in a sitting position, quickly lift up your legs and then float on your back. May I confirm that -float you do- and it is not a hoax as many people believe when they look at photos. It was amazing to be at the lowest place on earth, in fact, 400 metres below sea level. Petra- Jordan We woke early, it rings true the saying “wake up to a different port each day” we certainly were! The distance from Eilat to Aqaba was only 2.2 nautical miles, which really reminded me of the Australian term ‘across the pond’. This was indeed a special day, as we were both so excited to be able to actually see and touch the most wondrous site in the world - Petra. The atmosphere once we arrived in Petra reminded me a little of Kathmandu, which I had visited about 15 years ago. The weather was slightly cooler and for the first time I had to put on my jumper. There is so much to see from the moment you enter the world’s richest and largest archaeological site. It was like being in a chocolate box! Safaga When we reached the iconic site of Petra, Brianna had tears in her eyes, Let me start by saying today is a long one however it was worth it! and for the first time in my life I felt cold shivers running down my arm. Absolutely! Seeing the Temple of Luxor for the first time was somewhat All I can say is if you have not been – do take the opportunity overwhelming. It was hard to digest the magnitude of the sites history and visit this wondrous place. I honestly would not do it justice in and age. Our journey continued to the Nile River with lunch on board a trying to describe the amazing wonder of the world. traditional felucca. The River was a welcome relief and as we sailed past the bull rushes it was easy to visualise Moses suddenly appearing in his Sokna basket as a baby. Feeling stronger after our lunch and with the haven of A later start to the day –Pyramids and Sphinx here we come! I am sure the Nile, our next historic stop was the Valley of the Kings. We arrived many people similar to me have always wanted to see this great “places late in the afternoon and this gave us time to imbibe our minds and soul of eternity”. Our first stop was the step pyramid – Pyramid of Djoser, in the burial place of kings. The fading rays of the sun created an ethereal from there travelling through Cairo to get to Giza was an eye opener. I ambience, the sand had a purple hue, there was not a breath of wind and will never complain about Sydney traffic again. When we arrived at the for a moment we made our mark in the historic area and paid homage to pyramids of Giza the sun was on the cusp of setting. The sky was filled with the ancient pharaohs by visiting a number of their tombs. soft hues of pinks, blues and oranges. It was the perfect backdrop to the phenomenal pyramids. Irrespective of how many times you see images of Relaxation the pyramids, nothing can prepare you for their enormity, their grandeur Today we delighted in exploring the offerings on board. After breakfast and the impact they have on your senses. in Deck 5 Marco Polo restaurant, we had a really good Italian coffee, then read our books by the pool. Absolute Heaven! It is important to note that This is only a touch of the experience, however I hope you although a bit cloudy, the sun was still strong; therefore, if you are visiting all enjoyed our thoughts on this stunning area of the cruising this area you should still apply sunscreen even during the ‘winter’ season’. world. The year-end festivities started early so we dressed in our formal garments Visit www.msccruises.com.au for the full experience and I hope around five. This was the 31st December, and food was definitely a focal to see you on board soon. point with the gala dinner being a true feast and it was wonderful that we did not have to drive for this excellent restaurant experience or worry about that extra glass of champers. There were so many after dinner events arranged to bring in the New Year, however, the Dead Sea had been on my bucket list since I was a little girl and it beckoned tomorrow. Israel New Year’s Day! A very different start to 2013. A new destination, a new experience and a new memory to go into the ever growing memory bank. Israel. It was a very difficult decision first thing, Jerusalem as it is so close or travel to the Dead Sea and Masada, a tough choice. On arrival at Masada, I was in awe of the location, the time in history that it was built and the most amazing view. Masada, which means fortress in Hebrew is situated on an isolated rock cliff overlooking the Dead Sea. On the east side there is a sheer drop to the Dead Sea. Masada was built between 37 and 31 BC. It was a refuge for King Herod and certainly had all the bells and whistles for his palace, including traditional Roman bathhouses and terraced entertainment areas. Additions to Prinsendam Holland America Line recently completed the addition of the line’s casual Italian restaurant Canaletto and transformed the Lido Terrace into an enclosed Wintergarden aboard ms Prinsendam. Named for the famous 18th-century Venetian artist, the award-winning Canaletto is located in the Wintergarden, which is adjacent to the Lido dining area. The restaurant serves classic Italian fare with tableside service for dinner only. With the The Countdown is on... addition of the eatery to Prinsendam, Canaletto is now on all 15 ships in On 23 March 2013, MSC Preziosa, the latest addition to the MSC Cruises’ the Holland America Line fleet. “We continue to invest in our fleet and fleet and the fourth and final addition to the celebrated Fantasia class the onboard experience to offer the best premium cruise experience,” ship, will be christened in Genoa. With only weeks to go MSC Cruises has said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest announced an exciting new partnership with Eataly, the popular Turin-based programs. “Prinsendam has one of our most loyal followings, so the new chain founded in 2007 by Oscar Farinetti, which today counts several food and restaurant emporiums in Italy, Japan and the US, with plans to open new branches in Dubai, Turkey, Brazil and UK. The partnership with Eataly involves opening the first two Eataly restaurants at sea on board brand new flagship MSC Preziosa. In the area that hosts the Tex Mex speciality restaurant on her Fantasia class sister-ships, MSC Preziosa will instead feature two entirely unique dining venues: the Eataly Restaurant and the Ristorante Italia. With around 80 seats, the Eataly Restaurant will mirror Eataly’s original concept, creating a stylish, minimalist space where people can eat, buy and learn about the best Italian food. A choice of 18 dishes will be prepared and served at lunch and dinner, including pasta, vegetables, Wintergarden and popular Canaletto will certainly be appreciated by our seafood, meat, cold cuts and cheese. The exclusive 24 seat evening-only guests.” In addition to Canaletto, Ristorante Italia will offer a different ultra-high-quality ‘table d’hôte’ menu the 835-guest Prinsendam’s every night, especially conceived by Eataly chefs, with dishes made from Slow aft Lido terrace was enclosed Food Presidia products - a foundation created to protect small producers and remodelled into a covered and to preserve the quality of artisan products. Wintergarden. The new area increased the dining capacity of the Lido and provides the venue for Canaletto. The ship also received 16 other cosmetic enhancements during its dry-dock in Freeport, Bahamas, including new balcony decking and balcony dividers. ‘Xplorers club’ and New Website Launched Coral Princess Cruises has announced details of their new Xplorers club loyalty program to coincide with the launch of the company’s new website at www.coralprincess.com.au. After completing their first cruise with the Farewell to Melody company guests are automatically admitted to the Xplorers club as a Silver MSC Cruises has confirmed that Melody, the smallest ship in the MSC member, with the ability to receive even greater benefits after accruing Cruises’ fleet, is retiring from service and will no longer offer cruises additional nights onboard and qualifying as Gold or Platinum members. on behalf of the Geneva-based company. The decision to withdraw one Members of the club receive generous discounts of between 5% and 10% of its first and most traditional cruise ships reaffirms MSC’s focuson off normal cruise prices, along with a range of onboard bonuses including cutting-edge service and reflects the company’s continued desire to offer a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine on boarding each cruise, free FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY travellers the highest standards in product innovation and the maximum wireless internet access and discounts on bar purchases. Gold and Platinum in comfort, elegance and technology across the entire fleet. Weighing members will also receive advance notification of new itineraries and an 35,143 tons, measuring 204.7 metres in length and 27.35 metres in width, invitation to exclusive Xplorers club cruises, whilst Platinum members will Melody has been part of the MSC Cruises’ fleet since 1995, when she was receive a special travel compendium in recognition of their status as one originally purchased as the Starship Atlantic. The ship was swiftly renamed of the company’s most frequent guests. In a first for the Australian cruise Melody and sailed from Florida to Durban, where she received significant industry, a milestone reward of a free 7-night Great Barrier Reef cruise is refurbishments and was transformed into the much loved and immensely available to all Xplorers club members after completing 50 cruising nights popular Melody, with a capacity of just over 1,000 guests in 532 cabins. The aboard the Coral Princess fleet. ship left Durban for Genoa on her maiden voyage on 1 May 1997, and has The launch of Xplorers club coincides with the release of the sailed various itineraries all over the world ever since, most recently in the company’s new website www.coralprincess.com.au. Full details Mediterranean, Black Sea and South Africa, offering a relaxed and informal of the Xplorers club can be found at www.coralprincess.com.au/ cruise-ship experience. xplorersclub/.

QE2 to Floating Hotel Reappointed Chairman

QE2 Dubai has announced that MS has been moved to The International Cruise Council Australasia has announced the Drydocks World Dubai for undertaking classification checks prior to her reappointment of Royal Caribbean Cruises Regional Vice President Asia renovation as a luxury floating hotel. QE2 Dubai has created a large consortium Pacific Gavin Smith as its Chairman for 2013. Meanwhile Carnival Australia to convert the QE2 into a five-star hotel with 500 rooms managed bya CEO Ann Sherry has joined the board, taking up one of the two existing prestigious international hotel as an operator. The Oceanic Group, a group Deputy Chairman positions, alongside long-serving board member Andrew of deeply-experienced advisers to cruise operators and managers in Asia, will Millmore, who represents Compagnie du Ponant. Ms Sherry replaces take the lead in managing this project while Drydocks World Dubai will carry Carnival Australia Director of Sales Don Clark. APT CEO Chris Hall out extensive technical and operational checks prior to her move into Asia. remains Treasurer while Viking River Cruises Managing Director Teresia The vision for the QE2 is for her to become a landmark cultural and tourist Fors will continue as Secretary. Tony Smith from Francis Travel Marketing, attraction-a beacon of luxury, glamour, quality and tradition - in the heart of a representing Holland America Line in New Zealand, has been retained as leading Asian city that shares her rich maritime heritage and is prepared to give the New Zealand representative on the Board. this very special ship the prominent waterfront home she so richly deserves. Announcing the 2013 Board following the Council’s AGM in Sydney, ICCA The consortium will lavish many millions of dollars on this magnificent ship to General Manager Brett Jardine said the appointments did not require a restore her to the splendour of her glory days as an icon of the very best the membership vote as all individuals had been nominated unopposed. world has to offer. A number of Asian cities have expressed interest in securing ICCA 2013 Board: (l to r) Tony Smith, Andrew Millmore, Ann Sherry, this historic attraction. Plans for the upgrading of the QE2 also include a shopping Gavin Smith, Chris Hall, Brett Jardine (absent Teresia Fors) mall with the finest world leading brands, a QE2 Café offering meals similar to 18 those served during cruises, three Michelin-starred restaurants, convention and meeting facilities. There will also be an onboard maritime museum displaying “One Industry, One Voice” QE2 memorabilia and her rich history, along with a collection of treasures of The International Cruise Council Australasia has announced it has joined Dubai. with eight other cruise industry associations to form a common organisation Prior to the announcement Chris Frame, Maritime Historian and Author sent which will serve as the voice and advocacy leader of the global cruise industry. this report to Cruising News. Just days before Christmas, news broke in the Under the change, ICCA will become known as Cruise Lines International British ‘Daily Mail’ newspaper, that ‘QE2 had been sold for scrap’, which resulted Association Australasia. Other associations in the new body are North in an outcry of emotion from people all over the globe. With no official QE2 America’s Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), European Cruise Dubai website or contact details, hundreds of concerned people flooded Council (ECC), Asia Cruise Association (ACA), the UK’s Passenger Shipping Cunard Line’s (QE2’s former owner) Facebook and YouTube pages, demanding Association (PSA/ACE), France’s AFCC, Brazil’s ABREMAR, Northwest and that QE2 be saved. This resulted in Cunard Line making a much welcome Canada Cruise Association (NWCCA) and Alaska Cruise Association (ACA). formal statement advising that people should “ignore” the rumours about All Association members will use the name Cruise Lines International QE2’s imminent scrapping. To the best of Cunard’s knowledge, these rumours Association (CLIA) with the appropriate geographic designation, and the are untrue. Fortunately, out of the concern about QE2’s future, a positive story existing association offices will remain in place. The new association has been has been revealed. A consortium known as ‘QE2 London’ have made a £20m created to provide increased benefits and a globally unified voice for cruise bid for QE2, with the plan to return her to the UK and dock her in London. Her lines, travel agents and business partners – all of whom contribute to an

FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY proposed location will be opposite the O2 Arena. The ship is to be used as a industry that creates nearly $100 billion in economic impact and more than hotel. It is reported that the QE2’s Dubai owners have rejected this offer, which 753,000 jobs worldwide. fuelled the scrapping rumours, however the ‘QE2 London’ consortium are not For cruise lines, the new association offers a one-stop global resource on giving QE2 up without a fight. Their plan includes a further £40m refurbishment technical and regulatory issues and unified global communication and event and will create over 2,000 jobs in London, leading to support from Britain’s coordination, all of which better leverage cruise lines’ investment in association Chancellor of the Exchequer as well as (globally) well known London Mayor, membership. For travel agents, the new association offers more robust Boris Johnson. Official images of ‘QE2 London’ have been released resulting in partnership programs and networking on a broader scale, while for executive widespread support from the general public for this plan. partners, it provides greater opportunities for customer and business partner It now appears we will see QE2 as a luxury floating hotel in an Asian city in development. the future. CLIA will be governed by a Global Executive Committee, chaired by Howard Frank, Vice Chairman, Chief Operating Officer and Member of the Executive Committee of Carnival Corporation & plc. Christine Duffy, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association, will serve as the President and CEO of the new association, leading a team with responsibilities for international technical and regulatory issues, research, communications, industry relations and public affairs. “We are now truly one industry with one voice,” Mr Frank said. “Given the tremendous growth and continuing globalisation of the cruise industry, this evolution addresses the need to speak and act globally with a unified voice while recognising the importance of local relationships. The new association will play a vital role in proactively shaping the policy and regulatory environments on a global level and promoting cruising with various constituencies through more effective coordination, communication and stakeholder engagement.” Ms Duffy said there were immediate and longer term benefits from the new association that were extensive and wide ranging. “It enables us to better leverage our members’ and partners’ investment in association membership while strengthening the industry’s leadership globally ‘Seabourn Conversations’ on issues such as safety, security, the environment, Seabourn has launched “Seabourn Conversations”, a new concept for onboard sustainability and health,” Ms Duffy said. “It also enrichment and special guest entertainment on its award-winning fleet which allows us to consolidate industry research and will include a stellar lineup of celebrities and guest experts. “Conversation has to leverage promotional events and marketing always been central to the Seabourn experience,” noted Seabourn President communication to facilitate greater consumer Richard Meadows. “Our guests are interesting people with interesting life interest in cruising.” stories, and they really enjoy chatting in the relaxed camaraderie made possible ICCA Chairman Gavin Smith said the new by our small ships. We recruit explorers, heralded chefs, authors and scholars, organisation would take effect immediately, with celebrated performers and renowned experts from every arena of the arts, transitioning, including the introduction of the name change, occurring during sciences, politics and the humanities with particular talents or expertise.” On 2013 and that ICCA General Manager Brett Jardine would continue to report board they will lecture or perform, and take part in Q&A interviews, but on to the Australasian board as well as to the new global CEO, Christine Duffy. Seabourn they also enliven the social scene – and join the conversation.”

Cruise Industry Honour Top Achievers The Australasian cruise industry’s best performers have been recognised for their achievements at the 2012 Cruise Industry Awards held in Sydney. Hosted by television personality Deborah Hutton, the awards night was held at the Hilton Sydney and attended by 400 guests. Awards were presented across seven categories to the industry’s top cruise consultants and agencies at the annual awards night, held by the International Cruise Council Australasia (soon to be known as CLIA Australasia). Cruise Council Chairman Gavin Smith said the awards were a great way to recognise and 2012 Cruise Industry Award Winners –Left to Right: applaud the important Back row: Phil Hoffmann of Phil Hoffmann Travel; Kevin Sharp from Our Vacation Centre, Gaven Qld; Jeanette role that travel agents Wall from Cruiseabout Turramurra; Jennifer Vanderkreeke for Media Award winner Brian Crisp of News Ltd; play in the ongoing ICCA General Manager Brett Jardine; MC Deborah Hutton; Geoff McGeary from APT; Steve Parker from iCruise, growth and success of NZ; Angela Bartlam from Mondo Travel, NZ; Debbie Christian from Cruiseabout Parnell; Sarah Goldfinch, Kirsty the local cruise market. Jensen and Ryan Posa from Cruise Republic, Auckland. Front row: Mark Smith from Lets Cruise Auckland; Gordon “The local cruise Bayne from Mondo Travel, NZ; Robert Watson from Cruiseabout Turramurra; Andrew Lennox from Cruiseabout industry continues to go Wellington; Nigel Walliss, Simon Walliss and Shawn Walliss from Travelrite International, Balwyn. Absent: Emma from strength to strength and there is no question Blacklow from RACT Travelworld Collins Street – Hobart 20 that the hard work of travel agents in Australia and Rising Star Award Australia winner Emma All NZ Award Winners New Zealand plays a large part in that growth,” Mr Blacklow with Debra Hutton & Lynne Clarke Smith said. (MSC Cruises) The big winners on the night were Phil Hoffmann Travel, Glenelg, (SA), which won gold in the Australian Cruise Agency of the Year category for the second time, while Cruiseabout: Parnell won the Gold Agency Award of the Year NZ. Receiving the gold award, Phil Hoffmann thanked his team, saying they worked “unbelievable hours” to promote cruising for the agency. “To the ICCA and all the suppliers, a big thank you for what you do for this industry and for the training of our staff – that’s what makes it so great to be part of it,” Mr Hoffmann said. Meanwhile Cruiseabout Turramurra’s agent Robert FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Watson took home the coveted Australian Cruise Geoff McGeary & Phil Hoffmann Gold Agency of the Year NZ winner Debbie Christian Consultant of the Year award. The 2012 winner of the from Cruiseabout Parnell Neil Frazer Award for an Outstanding Contribution by an Individual was APT director Geoff McGeary, who paid tribute to his supporters over the past 50 years, as well as his executives and their teams, saying they could be “very well proud” of what they had achieved. “I guess I’m a bit chuffed myself. These trips, cruises and tours that we’ve done, have been a wonderful experience in my life – they’ve opened the world to me and it just doesn’t stop.” Speaking at the awards, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Christine Duffy, congratulated travel agents for the role they have played in the growth of the local cruise industry. “We’ve seen a decade of strong and rising Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry with Robert Watson Geoff McGeary with Debra Hutton & Karen Christensen growth here putting the Australasian region at the Consultant of the Year Australia (Silversea) forefront of one of the most significant changes in our industry’s history, namely the transformation of the cruise industry from a collection of regional associations into a truly powerful global industry,” she said.

Major Winners: Gold Agency of the Year Australia - Phil Hoffmann Travel : Glenelg SA, Gold Agency of the Year NZ - Cruiseabout: Parnell, Consultant of the Year Australia - Robert Watson, Cruiseabout, Turramurra, Consultant of the Year NZ - Sarah Goldfinch: Cruise Republic Auckland, Rising Star Award Australia - Emma Blacklow: RACT Travelworld Collins St, Hobart Tasmania, Rising Star Award NZ - Andrew Lennox: Cruiseabout, Wellington, Media Award - Brian Crisp “Simple changes lift Aussie Spirit” – Carnival Cruise Lines, News Limited Escape section, Agency promotion of the Year - Australia - Travelrite International, Balwyn Vic - “Film Festival at Sea,” Agency promotion of the Year - NZ ICCA G/M Brett Jardine with CLIA President & CEO - iCruise - “September iCruise Month,” Network Promotion of the Year - Australasia - Mondo Travel Christine Duffy (NZ) - “Let’s talk cruising with Jackie”and Neil Frazer Award - Geoff McGeary

Orion Rescues Solo Sailor Broadening the Dream The expedition MVOrion arrived in Hobart, Australia, at 0900, SeaDream is breaking Tuesday 22 January, having diverted from its planned course (heading to away from its traditional Macquarie Island to conclude its expedition to Antarctica) in order to concentration on the attempt to rescue French solo yacht sailor Alain Delord whose yacht’s Mediterranean and mast had broken into three pieces and the hull subsequently damaged in Caribbean, and while heavy seas. Responding to an emergency request from AMSA (Australian maintaining popular Maritime Safety Authority), Orion, being the closest ship to the search sailings in these regions zone, yet 687 nautical miles away, diverted course for a two day rush to with SeaDream I save Alain Delord, who by that time had abandoned his yacht and was in and SeaDream II, has a life raft. created new itineraries embracing Asia and Northern Australia, A Royal Australian Air Force search aircraft was deployed to locate the Costa Rica, London and Dover, Northern Europe including to the Baltic sailor adrift in the Southern Ocean encountering 7 meter swells and and the Norwegian Fjords, and with a sailing in the Black Sea taking-in winds gusting to 40 knots. Following a sighting by the aircraft a raft Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, the Ukraine and Russia. containing communications equipment, supplies and a survival suit, was Drawing huge enquiries is a 14-day sailing from Dover on 16 August 2014 dropped and communication commenced on an hourly basis through a that will transit Germany’s Canal, and visit Bornholm in Denmark, French interpreter. The sea conditions hampered Orion’s speed during Gotland (Sweden,) have a whole 3-days in Russia’s St Petersburg, then on the 54 hour race to reach Alain, arriving in the search zone at 8.30pm to Tallinn in Estonia, Rugen Island (Germany,) Fyn Island (Denmark) and Sunday 20 January, as light was starting to fade. back to Dover. A new 80-page brochure has just been released. Guided by an RAAF Hercules dropping flares to guide the way, the crew of Orion located the life raft 380 nautical miles south-west of Hobart and CEO Appointed Captain Mike Taylor put the rescue plan into action, positioning the 104 metre Orion to windward of the raft creating a relatively calm patch for SeaDream Yacht Club recently announced the a Zodiac to be deployed. Encouraged by the 91 cheering guests onboard appointment of Pamela Conover as its Chief Executive Orion, the rescue team, headed by Expedition Leader Don McIntyre, Officer. Conover, an internationally acclaimed luxury himself a former solo round the world yachtsman, quickly secured the cruise line executive was President and CEO of life raft, extracted Alain Delord and transferred him to the security of the Seabourn Cruise Line during the introduction of the ship in a matter of minutes. Odyssey class ships and President of Cunard Line In the medical centre during the introduction of Queen Mary 2. “I am very the ship’s doctor excited to take on the CEO role at SeaDream Yacht 22 Chris Bulstrode, a Club which delivers award winning experiences specialist in trauma aboard its two mega-yachts SeaDream I and II”, said Conover. Atle medicine, examined Brynestad, Chairman and owner of SeaDream Yacht Club said “I welcome Alain declaring he Pam to take my role as the CEO of SeaDream, so I can spend more was in remarkably time towards the long term planning for SeaDream and also more time good condition to my other businesses. I am delighted to have an executive of Pam’s for someone who talent and expertise to lead the SeaDream management team. We have had been through worked together over the years and have a great track record of success such a harrowing together.” experience. A suite was prepared and The Tere Moana Christened following a dinner of Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the m/s Paul lamb shanks, a glass of Gauguin, christened its new luxurious ship, the wine and a cup of tea, m/v Tere Moana, in an official ceremony held Alain went to bed. dockside on 29 December 2012 in Marigot, St. With the relevant

FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Martin. Mireille Bailey, The Moana’s godmother maritime authorities and wife of Richard Bailey, Chairman of Paul informed, Orion set Gauguin Cruises and President and CEO of Pacific course for Hobart. Beachcomber S.C., presided over the festivities, Because of an earlier delivering a moving speech before christening the than scheduled arrival in Hobart, the Orion team worked quickly with ship with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot La Grande local authorities and suppliers to arrange guest visits to Port Arthur, Maria Dame Champagne. Mr. Bailey along with Diane Moore, President of Paul Island and South Bruny Island, while Alain received new documentation Gauguin Cruises, and Captain Rajko Zupan, the ship’s Master, spoke during from France to allow for his entry into Australia. Orion’s Facebook page the ceremony, which included plaque presentations by St. Martin’s Vice achieved record visits as past passengers, the world’s media and general President of the Collectivite, Port Chairman, Port Director, and Tourist public followed the unfolding of the rescue. On the BBC’s website the Board. St. Martin’s Father Samson Dorival delivered the ship’s blessing, and rescue footage trended as the second most watched video. ceremony attendees were serenaded by the festive music of a Caribbean Positive comments have been flooding in to Orion Expedition Cruises full steel drum band. After the celebrations the ship set sail on its inaugural 7 of praise for the way the rescue was conducted seamlessly in conjunction night Caribbean voyage to visit islands in the French West Indies, British with AMSA. Virgin Islands, and St. Kitts & Nevis.

On Board Orion Recently when Orion visited Brisbane I had an opportunity to inspect the vessel. My memories were rekindled as I found this ship in excellent condition with great facilities and friendly crew. JT

24 FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY

Historic Cruise to the Midnight Sun Fred Olsen’s even farther north, Braemar next calls at Tromsø, visitor; the more adventurous can try kayaking Braemar ’ s well inside the Arctic Circle and surrounded on the local waterways. The second Russian port Historic Cruise by snow-capped peaks. Visitors here can enjoy on this itinerary is Murmansk, home to a shipping to the Midnight panoramic views by taking a cable car ride from company that specialises in ice-breakers. There is Sun of 16 nights the edge of town and as well you can get a beer a museum that includes soil taken from directly departs from at Mack’s, the world’s most northerly brewery! under the North Pole. This unusual and truly Dover on 22 The next port, Honningsvǻg, is the northernmost inspiring cruise has one final port of call on its June 2013 and extremity of the cruise and, from here; guests can journey south, Norway’s second city, Bergen. This her first port of call is the pretty Norwegian town of visit the North Cape, the ‘top of Europe’. In June bustling fishing port and cosmopolitan town with Stavanger. A former European Capital of Culture, its the sun never sets on this ‘winter wonderland’ its broad boulevards and pretty town squares and old town, with winding, cobbled streets and ancient often called the ‘Land of the Midnight Sun.’ The busy fish-market is a favourite with visitors, as is wooden houses, is very picturesque and one of the next leg of this fascinating cruise takes Braemar the picturesque old town ‘Bryggen Wharf’ with more unusual visitor attractions is the Oil Museum. into Russia with a visit to Archangel on the White its colourfully painted wooden houses, reflecting The northerly town of Bodø is famous as the home Sea. The Lutheran Kirk of St. Catherine, built in its Hanseatic heritage. The cruise then returns to of many Sea Eagles, and it is a truly stirring sight to see 1768, is a landmark well worth visiting, and there Dover. these majestic birds circle over the town. Travelling are museums and galleries to satisfy the cultural

The Rob Henderson & Doug Cremer Collection

26

In 1910 P & O founded the Branch Line, which operated a fleet of One Class ships designed for the Emigrant service to Australia via the Cape of Good Hope. A service advertised in this very art deco style 1924 brochure cover FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY

From part of the P & O Group of companies comes this very artistic 1925 timetable cover for the Canadian-Australasian Line which operated a regular service of Royal Mail steamers between Australia-New Zealand and Canada (Vancouver)

From the archive comes this photograph of the ARCADIA arriving in Australia on her maiden voyage in 1954. The “The Land of the Midnight Sun” is highlighted in this ARCADIA became a great favourite with Australians on the poster issued by Orient Line to advertise their 1927 regular route to and from England as well as on Cruises from season of cruises to Norway. Australia.

The Dreaming Continues.....

Since returning home from our wonderful vacation on the fabulous yacht SeaDream II I have had time to reflect on the 14 days spent on board. I certainly miss the exceptional service extended from the staff. Without going overboard they knew how to be super attentive and their enthusiasm showed. They quicky anticipated your needs in food and drinks. I returned home very refreshed and relaxed. The captain had an open bridge policy and was happy to explain the workings of the ship and talk about his experiences at sea. For the sports minded guests the availability of water sports from the retractable marina at the stern was a big plus. In the calm waters sailed Jet Skis, banana boat rides, water skiing and zodiac rides were most popular. At other times there were the mountain bikes available to explore the various ports. Some guests took the opportunity to sleep on deck at night on the Balinese Beds as the vessel gently followed the Mediterranean coastline to our next port of call. Relaxation at its best in luxury surroundings being pampered by professional staff certainly made my time on SeaDream II as close to perfect as one can describe. JT And now news of the SeaDream experience Crew’s Seadreamin’ Christmas Dinner coming soon to Asia and Australia. During the recent interview with SeaDream Chairman Atle Brynestad he told me of the SeaDream tradition of executive staff and himself visiting SEADREAM Yacht Club has begun selling sailings aboard SeaDream II in the ships on Christmas Day. Well Christmas Day 2012 was no exception. 28 Asia in 2013/2014 including into and out of Cairns. This gives Australians Crew aboard SeaDream II had a Christmas Day they’ll long remember at the first opportunity ever to join the mega motor-cruiser without the the island of St John need to travel half-way around the world to either the Mediterranean in the Caribbean – or Caribbean to do so. SeaDream II will sail 15 days from Athens to company President, Mumbai on 12 October this year, and on arrival there will be eighteen Bob Lepisto voyages over five months to some of the largest and most popular ports together with in South East Asia, and conversely many smaller ones larger cruise ships senior officers, cannot access, in India, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar (Burma,) Malaysia, other company Sri Lanka, the Andaman Islands, Cambodia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, China management and Indonesia. And on 18 January 2014 she’ll sail 14 days from Bali to and Mr Lepisto’s Cairns by way of four ports in Indonesia, plus , Darwin, Seven wife and three Spirit Bay, Cape York, Lizard and Low Islands, and Port Douglas. She’ll sail daughters served back to Bali from Cairns on February 1 2014, visiting New Guinea’s Milne all crew a full- Bay, the Trobriand and Tami Islands, the Sepik River, Jayapura in Indonesian blown traditional Papua, Sulawesi, and the Komodo and Satonda Islands. Christmas dinner FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Full itineraries and 80-page brochure of Asia and other SeaDream sailings of turkey, pork are available from travel agents or check www.seadream.com. and prime rib with all the trimmings in the ship’s plush dining salon two hours before guests sat down to their dinner. And all crew also received a gift and personal Christmas Civitavecchia card from the company owner, Atle Brynestad, exactly the same gift and card as guests had found awaiting them in their staterooms on Christmas Eve. Other SeaDream management and senior officers also served up a similar Christmas Dinner to crew of sister vessel, SeaDream I that was also in the Caribbean on Christmas Day and again crew also received the same gift and card from Mr Brynestad as he’d sent to SeaDream I’s guests in their staterooms on Christmas Eve. (Photo shows Bob Lepisto carving the turkey for crew Christmas Dinner on SeaDream II, with daughters Heather and Brooke manning the vegetable station.) Places Visited After a late departure from Civitavecchia it was an overnight run to our first port of call Bonifacio on the island of Corsica, France. We were able to dock and it was a 20 minute stroll past perfectly preserved Renaissance homes and churches with many cafes and shops along the waterfront to reach the marina known as Basse Ville. The town is famous for cork and Corsican wine. Sheer cliffs shelter its cafes, restaurants and shops. A mini tram ride winds its way through narrow alleyways as it takes you up to the oldest parts of Bonifacio to provide an overview of this charming town. You’ll pass by the Bosco quarter with the St Francis convent and fascinating cemetery dedicated to mariners with large mausoleums displaying many different architectural styles. On the return journey you will pass by the church of St Dominique built in 1270.

Bonifacio

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Portoferraio FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY

Another late night departure took SeaDream II to Portoferraio, Elba, Italy. An overcast morning turned to rain as we took a tour to the mountainside village of Capoliveri passing the iron mines at Mount Calamita and Mount Ginevero. The coastline provided extensive views showing overhanging cliffs, small bays and crystal-clear water before reaching Capoliveri. Despite the heavy rain there was time to walk through the twisty old streets to spend time browsing the tiny shops and boutiques. Then we visited the 17th century old country wine-farm “La Chiusa”, beautifully nestled in a vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the ocean with views to Portoferraio and our vessel SeaDream II. There was time for wine sampling of the vineyard’s “passiti” made from Aleatico and Ansonica. Overnight we followed the Italian coastline to Livorno where we joined chef Tomasz Kozlowski for a shopping tour of the markets. After lunch we enjoyed a long walk around the town. Livorno is the drop off point for Florence which is a one and a half hour drive. Next morning we were anchored off Portovenere (Cinque Terre) Italy. A short tender ride took us to Portovenere, a picturesque ancient 12th century town where tall and pastel coloured houses front the shoreline. A short uphill walk takes you to the Church of St Peter high on a hilltop overlooking the sea and further uphill to a castle and the cemetery before following the alleyways down to the shoreline which is dotted with shops and cafes. Because of the weather we were unable to take a boat ride to what is described as one of the worlds most beautiful and famous stretches of Livorno

Portofino

Portovenere 30 Palace for the changing of the guard, the beautiful Rose Garden dedicated to Princess Grace and the Cathedral where Prince Rainier III married American film star Grace Kelly. Our final stop for disembarking of guests and for new guests to join was Nice. After a walk along the waterfront near the marina with its many restaurants and busy shopping streets we caught the hop-on hop-off Red Bus for a comprehensive tour of the fifth most populous city in France and the second-largest French city on the Mediterranean coast. The city is called “Nice la Belle” which means Nice the Beautiful. A highlight was driving along the city’s main seaside promenade, the Promenade des Anglais (‘the Walkway of the English’). There was a yacht competition in coastline known as Cinque progress and the promenade was packed. Nice is the second-most visited Terre. The 18 kms of place in France after Paris, receiving 4 million tourists every year. It is a rocky and sheer coastline

FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY place we would like to revisit for a holiday. JT/KT is home to five castles, Monterosso, Vernazza, Next Issue - Another 7 days along the Mediterranean coastline visiting San Corniglia, Manarola and Remo, St Tropez, Sete, Port Vendres (Collioure) and Roses before returning Riomaggiore with steep to Barcelona. centuries old paths that link them across terraced hills and vineyards clinging Palace Monte Carlo precipitously to the slopes. We have heard about Portofino for some time and always wanted to visit. After a short tender ride we were not disappointed. Portofino has a modern reputation as a ‘retreat for the elite’ and a magnet for wealthy Genoans as a seaside escape. Portofino focuses on the small town marina and Piazetta (main square). The houses are brightly coloured. It has an atmosphere that is peaceful and enticing. In the December issue of the magazine we covered an overview of Monte Carlo which was our next port of call. However the April issue of Cruising News will cover our visit to the Royal

Portofino Nice New Era in Australian Cruising with the Arrival of Celebrity Solstice

31 FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice reached her new Australian home play petanque and bowls; spa-resort inspired AquaClass accommodation; port, docking at Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal at 6.30am on Sunday a glass-blowing studio; a great array of restaurants and bars and she is also 9 December 2012. Launched in November 2008, she is the youngest and fitted with 216 solar panels that supply enough energy to power all of the most modern superliner to make Australia her home. At 122,000 tons ship’s guest elevators, or more than 7,000 LED lights.. and 315 metres long and ability to carry 2,850 guests, Celebrity Solstice We cruised two nights from Brisbane to Sydney and the one night cruise to is the second largest cruise ship ever based in Australia; second only to nowhere from Sydney. We enjoyed our time on board. Celebrity Solstice sister brand Royal Caribbean International’s Voyager of the Seas, which introduces a ‘modern luxury’ style of cruising: excellent contemporary, also debuted in Sydney late last year. Her arrival brings a new level of amenities and accommodation. She was the first cruise ship to have its sophistication to the Australian cruising scene. She offers an elegant and staterooms designed by a team of women. While at first reading this may contemporary style of cruise holiday, with unique features like the Lawn not seem remarkable, once on board these touches are very noticeable. Club, half an acre of real lawn where guests can enjoy the luxury of feeling Storage spaces are plentiful and well-designed in both bathrooms and real grass under their feet in the middle of the ocean, have a picnic or bedrooms. Overview – Guests on board Celebrity Vietnamese, Japanese and Thai dishes. There is Solstice have ten dining choices including the a surcharge for Tuscan, Silk and Murano luxurious main dining room, the Grand Epernay For a more casual dining experience guests can Dining Room, which dazzles with its two-story visit the Bistro on Five Creperie, Oceanview glass wine tower and magnificent chandeliers. Café & Grill, AquaSpa Café or Café al Bacio. Other specialty dining options include The AquaClass guests have access to an exclusive Tuscan Grille, Murano Restaurant and the Silk dining room, Blu, an intimate, 130-seat specialty Harvest Restaurant. These specialty restaurants restaurant with menus developed by Celebrity are superb. Operating as individual restaurants Cruises’ culinary consultant, Blau & Associates, with their own team of chefs and kitchens, the team behind restaurants such as Las Vegas’ they specialise in a variety of cuisine. Murano Bellagio and Miami’s Setai. Many guests enjoyed is a classic upmarket dining experience offering breakfast and lunch in the Buffet which had so the finest classic French dishes like duck confit, many food stations with a wide variety of food rack of lamb, lobster and even two types of and the sea views whilst you ate. caviar. The dinner at Murano’s reintroduced There are plenty of stylish bars and lounges us to cooking by our table. Tuscan Grille offers including The Passport Bar or the Observation a sensational Italian dining experience with Lounge with its floor to ceiling windows for exceptional pastas and risotto, hearty grilled spectacular views, as well as the Ensemble meat like Tuscan rib eye steak, antipasti and Lounge, Martini Bar, Champagne Bar, Michael’s much more. Silk Harvest offers a broad range Club and the Sunset Bar which is located at of Asian cuisine encompassing delicious Chinese, the ship’s highest point and has a country club

32 FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY 33

feel to it. There is also Cellarmasters, which making and karaoke organised by trained brings to life the experience of a global wine counsellors. A fun room for kids aged from three tour as guests taste and learn about a large to 12 is available called the Fun Factory as well variety of wines from around the world. as an X Club teen lounge, video game room and For entertainment in addition to the Solstice broadcast room that the whole family can enjoy.

Theatre, there is also Celebrity Central where A special feature is a lap pool in the solarium 2013 FEBRUARY guests can enjoy lively entertainment, including surrounded by waterfalls as well as the two According to Adam Armstrong, commercial late night comedy shows and live musical larger outdoor pools and four whirlpools. director, Celebrity Cruises Australia, Celebrity performances, and a cinema, casino and art The spacious fitness centre onboard has Solstice has ‘raised the bar’ for cruising Down gallery. state of the art aerobic and weight-training Under. “Celebrity Cruises consistently scores Eighty-five per cent of the staterooms on equipment. Passengers can enjoy the AquaSpa high marks in the industry. It’s a major milestone Celebrity Solstice have balconies and 90 per by Elemis which offers an array of relaxing to introduce a ship of this size and calibre to cent have ocean views, all with Egyptian cotton treatments. Celebrity Solstice’s Point of Well our market, which you could only previously bed linen, a sitting area with sofa, LCD screens Being Acupuncture Program lets guests treat experience in European or Caribbean waters. and wireless internet access. Features include themselves to a spiritual and harmonious Our pampering but relaxed ‘modern luxury’ an innovative adjoining stateroom design with treatment. style of cruising is particularly well-suited to a double set of doors, allowing guests to open And of course there is a number of shops Australian cruisers who appreciate the finer up the space for families or friends travelling where much time can be spent. things in life”. Armstrong added: “The good together and verandas of adjoining staterooms It is no secret that cruise ships have news for those who miss out this season is can also be opened to create a veranda that changed enormously over the years, that Celebrity Solstice is confirmed to return in spans both rooms. Modular furniture design but the arrival of Celebrity Solstice to summer 2013-14, but again we would encourage and “smarter” storage design, means guests can Australia brings a new standard and style people to book now and secure their space on enjoy a more spacious, clutter-free environment. of cruising down under. the highest-rated cruise ship in Australia.” The spacious suites on Celebrity Solstice come with their own European-style butler service, verandas, impressive entertainment systems and master bedrooms. Penthouse and royal suites also feature separate lounge areas, and the penthouse suites each have their own baby grand piano. A new style of stateroom, the AquaClass suites, sharing the same deck as the AquaSpa by Elemis is available. This accommodation option incorporates select spa elements into the staterooms including special access to spa amenities, such as the AquaSpa Relaxation Room and the Persian Garden, an exotic aromatherapy steam room. The ship offers a number of fun programs geared towards young people for which there is no extra cost. Celebrity Cruises’ youth and teen program has activities tailored to interest groups with activities including treasure hunts, arts and crafts, relay races, ice cream sundae- MSC Splendida Stunning in design and layout

In the December 2012 issue of this magazine we reported on our serving Italian cuisine and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the adventure on MSC Splendida travelling MSC Yacht Club style. On that Villa Verde, which offers views from three sides (including the stern) and cruise we spent most of our time in the Yacht Club, but did find a little focuses daily on dishes from a different region of Italy. time to see the rest of the ship. MSC Splendida was launched in 2009 and Higher up on Deck 14, the bow area features the large Aurea Spa and is stunning in her design and layout. Public rooms flow from one deck Fitness Centre, which includes a tiled Turkish bath, pre or post treatment to another and the Atrium spans decks 5 to 9. On the various levels are relaxation room, a spa bar, a yoga studio, a gym, a hair salon, and more the reception counter and shore excursion desk, the large Splendida Bar than a dozen rooms for massages, mud packs, and other treatments. The which always seemed busy, a number of well-stocked shops (Perfume, ship’s midsection has several pools: the L’Equatore, which offers a glass 34 Duty Free, Boutique, Electrical, Jewellery, Logo and General merchandise), roof for inclement weather as well as several whirlpools and a bar, and L’Espresso Coffee Shop, L’Enoteca for wines and tapas and the Santa Fe the open-air Aqua Park, a multi-level grouping of pools, wading pools, Tex-Mex Restaurant which has an open kitchen. In the bow of MSC Splendida on Deck 6 is the main section of the grand 1,600 seat Strand Theatre. The entertainment featured in the theatre was excellent! It also spreads over to Decks 5 and 7. As you move sternward on Deck 6 there is the large Royal Palm Casino, a cigar lounge, a poker room, several shops, and the inviting and beautiful La Piazetta, a rotunda-style cafe serving pastries, sweets, and gelato. You must sample the delights of La Piazzetta. With its bar, ice-cream parlour, pastry and chocolate shop, a world reminiscent of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory awaits guests. Dishes include crème bavaroise with almonds and berries, chocolate semifreddo, vanilla and rose macaron cream, cannoli, baba and meringues. On deck 7 is the stylish La Prua piano bar with its imagery,

FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY the colorful and modern Purple Jazz Bar, the large Sports Bar with big- screen TVs and a two-lane bowling alley, and, in the stern, the Aft Lounge, a fabulous space for music and dancing and special events. The two main restaurants are also found on decks 6 and 7: the two-level La Reggia Places Visited

La Goulette

whirlpools, and 150 illuminated musical fountains. Our cruise started and finished in Barcelona which gave us a little time The remainder of Deck 14 has two interconnected casual self service buffet pre and post cruise to once again enjoy this great city. Modern Barcelona style restaurants Bora Bora and Pago Pago which are now open 20 hours could be described as a vibrant, relaxed and hospitable place with many a day from 6.00am to 2.00am. On deck you’ll find the Playa del Sol Zen tourist attractions. It is Spain’s second largest city and the capital of the Area featuring Splendida’s third major pool area with a traditional stern Catalonia region. The most distinctive landmark is the Cathedral de la pool with two whirlpools and a limited amount of seating and is reserved Sagrada Familia, the work of Antonio Gaudi. The city features distinctive for adults only. Moving forward is a jogging track, a pair of whirlpools, and Avant Garde architecture. A gathering place for locals and visitors and the ship’s children’s facilities with the Il Graffiti teen hangout room and a place to stroll is along Las Ramblas, one of Europe’s most famous separate outdoor areas for kids and teens. promenades. For a bird’s eye view of Barcelona journey up to Montjuic One more deck up, you’ll find the ship’s disco, a sports court, a video game Hill. The hop-on, hop-off buses provide a great way to experience an room, and two special attractions: a Formula One racing simulator and a 4D cinema. Cathage 35 By day the pool areas and self service restaurants were always busy, especially mid afternoon as passengers returned from shore visits, as were the various lounges, bars and theatre by night. MSC Splendida is a big ship at 137,936 tons and can carry up to 3,900 passengers. It offers excellent facilities and those who choose to cruise on this ship should have an enjoyable time. JT/KT

overview of the city and its suburbs. We stayed at the Novotel Barcelona City and found the hotel handy to shops and transport. La Goulette – The port area for Tunis where African and Arabic hospitality FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY awaits. A report and photo gallery is on Page 41. Our next port of call was La Valletta, Malta officially recognised as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1980. This time we took the Red Bus for a fast and wild ride through the suburban areas to the ancient walled town

La Valetta

of Mdina, the one- time capital of Malta. Its main landmark is the Baroque style St. Pauls Cathedral. On returning to the main city area we visited the Upper Barrakka Gardens, a beautiful park that was created in 1775 for a panoramic view over the Harbour. We spent the next hours walking around the area looking at the many shops and deciding where to eat

St John’s Cathedral Barcelona

Messina the narrow streets to higher ground for a panoramic view of the city and harbour. Alternatively you can travel inland to the slopes of Mount Etna, pay a visit to the Black Madonna in Tindari or journey to Taormina. Our cruise took us past Mt Etna on our way to Civitavecchia which is around an hour and a half bus journey away from Italy’s capital of Rome. Various excursions were available which included St Peter’s Square to visit the Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon to mention just a few. Our final port of call was Genoa, Italy’s main commercial port. It was a pity it was a rainy day, however the Red Bus gave us a great tour of the city below the surrounding ancient terrace hills taking in the historic town centre travelling along the fashion street, Via Roma with shops featuring the most elegant brands. A short walk from the ship was Genoa’s famous lunch. Our next stop was St John’s Aquarium reputed to be one of Europe’s finest and renowned for its size Cathedral. You will want to spend a and vast variety of marine creatures. lot of time exploring this majestic From Genoa where we departed at 5.00pm it was a 406 nautical mile church. Flash photography inside sailing to Barcelona for a 1.00pm arrival. JT/KT 36 the cathedral is prohibited. Time to return to the ship and we did it in style in an electric cab. Next day was an early morning Genoa arrival in Messina, the natural arrival point for travellers from the Italian Peninsula situated to the northeast of the island of Sicily.. Located on the Messina Straits and with a large natural harbour, Messina is one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean. The local Cathedral and its bell tower is a popular tourist attraction and from this point a bus tour takes you through FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY

St Peters Genoa

St Peters Australia Day Launch First Lau Cruise Captain Cook Cruises, Fiji is embarking on the first ever Discovery Cruise, to a part of Fiji never seen by tourists before, the pristine Lau group. The cruise onboard the MV Reef Endeavour is scheduled to depart on 22 October, 2013 for 11 amazing nights. “Captain Cook Cruises is so

Forget the big red car! P&O Cruises hosted The Wiggles on a big white ship to mark the official launch of the 2013 Australia Day program. The excited to be able to offer the first ever cruise around the Lau Group of location of the prestigious launch onboard Pacific Pearl reflected P&O Islands. We have worked really hard, using local knowledge and advice, Cruises’ new role as official sponsor of the Australia Day Sydney Harbour to put together a fantastic 11 night itinerary that will not only show off program in 2013 and 2014. To celebrate the holiday Pacific Pearl was everything Lau has to offer, but that will allow passengers to experience a moored in Sydney Harbour for the entire day with passengers enjoying remote and unspoilt part of Fiji.” Says Jackie Charlton, Managing Director a front row seat for all the festivities and the fireworks. Along with of Captain Cook Cruises, Fiji. naming rights to the harbour program, the cruise line sponsored the Invited to visit these incredible islands by locals eager to share their 2.2km race in the Great Australian Swim Series Final in the harbour, while beauty, the 11 night Lau cruise will visit the untouched northern island of Pacific Pearl blew its whistle to mark the start of the Tall Ships Parade Lau - Wailagilala, Lau’s largest Island - Vanuabalavu, the most beautiful Island 37 and Australia Day Regatta. The popular children’s group, The Wiggles, in the Lau group - Fulaga, the uninhabited Vuaqava, Kabara - known for were performing in Sydney on the day. Speaking at the program launch, its wood turning and Tongan heritage and the untouched white beaches P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said the cruise line’s of Totoya Island. On the way to and from the Lau group the cruise will sponsorship of the official Australia Day activities on the harbour was an stop in at Yanuca Island, Savusavu Bay and Kadavu, famous for its wildlife easy decision, given its long connection with Sydney Harbour. “Our link and underwater world. Passengers can also sit back, relax and enjoy the with this harbour goes all the way back to the 19th century when the spectacular views as they cruise through the Bay of Islands, renowned for first P&O mail steamer, Chusan, arrived in Sydney in 1852, and caused a its beauty, pristine waters and spectacular scenery and the central Lau sensation. We’ve now been cruising from Sydney for 80 years so we’re Group, passing Islands such as Lakeba, Oneata, Komo, Namuka-i-Lau and delighted to support such a fantastic celebration on such a magnificent Yagasa. harbour,” Ms Marshall said. Exciting activities over these 12 days include Kayaking or river tubing Image: P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall onboard Pacific on the Nasakawa River, mountain bike riding through hills, valleys and Pearl with The Wiggles (l to r) Emma Watkins, Lachlan Gillespie, Simon villages in Savusavu Bay, visiting a crater of an extinct volcano at Cobia, Pryce and Anthony Field as well as MS Australia representatives Emma fishing at Wailagilala, visiting Fijian and Tongan influenced villages and Giunti and Stephen Papadopoulos (front row), promoting the inaugural schools, attending a local church service, exploring the flora and fauna MS Colour Run which forms part of the official Australia Day program. of the Vuaqava region, a traditional Meke, Sevusevu and lovo feast and endless swimming, snorkelling and diving in the clear blue ocean water off Save the Children picturesque islands and in beautiful lagoons. 2013 FEBRUARY The Discovery Lau cruise departs 22 October 2013 at 1.00pm from Port Denarau and disembarks on 2 November, 2013 at 9.00am at Port Denarau. “The Journey of the Krait” A Cruise to coincide with the 70th anniversary of the Krait’s audacious World War II mission from Darwin to Singapore is scheduled (L-R) Cruise Director Lee Oliver and Hotel Director Joshua Dayboll to depart on 25 September meet locals at the Malapoa Aid Post in Vanuatu 2013. The 14-day South East Asia Explorer will be P&O Cruises is offering its passengers the chance to make a big impact on APT’s small expedition with their small change and give back to the destinations they visit through ship Caledonia Sky with an exciting new partnership with Save the Children. As part of the new stops at Dili, Ende, Rinca P&O Pacific Partnership initiative, the cruise line’s passengers will donate Island, Sumbaya Island, $1 via their onboard account with the aim of raising $1 million over four Bali, Banjarmarsin, Kumai, years to help fund community health and education projects in Pacific Belitung Islands, Sekupang Island communities. Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia, officially and Singapore but APT launched the new partnership in Sydney with a $50,000 donation on advises Caledonia Sky is behalf of the cruise line and its passengers. As well as cash donations, likely to stop for ad hoc P&O Cruises’ passengers will be able excursions along the way. to take a hands-on approach with an onboard knitting program Born to The Krait - Codenamed Operation Jaywick, this daring and Knit producing blankets for newborn secret mission saw 17 brave men evade enemy detection during a babies throughout the Pacific. perilous journey from Australia’s west coast to Singapore. Disguised The P&O Pacific Partnership is part as local Malay fishermen, they navigated a small fishing boat, named of Carnival Australia’s ongoing charity the “Krait” after the deadly Indian snake, through enemy-controlled program, Carnival Cares, which also waters to Singapore’s harbour. Under the cover of darkness on supports Lifeline Australia. September 26, 1943, they paddled canoes into the harbour to attach mines to several Japanese vessels. Once the harbour erupted, the Simon Cheng, Marketing Director at operatives hid in enemy territory until they could secretly rendezvous Carnival Australia has joined P&O Cruises’ with the Krait and return to Australia. Now owned by the Australian crew and passengers in learning for a War Memorial, the historic vessel is proudly displayed at the good cause. Australian national maritime Museum in Sydney’s Darling Harbour. USS Albacore , Concorde at USS Intrepid Museum

Maritime Museums USS Intrepid Air Sea Space Museum in New England and beyond By Tim Ryan

A few years ago we featured a report on Maritime Museums along the North Eastern seaboard of the United States and a recent visit 38 to the New England and New York region continued to delight with the quality of the country’s maritime museums being exceptional. was built in 1967 and display the ship as a museum commemorating the life However as in any country, continuing support from the public as of President Kennedy and also use the ship as a tribute to US Naval aviation well as corporate and government funding is essential to retain on Newport’s scenic Narragansett Bay. the preservation of America’s important nautical heritage. South of Rhode Island is the historic town of Mystic in Connecticut where Located in a park at the pretty seaside village of Portsmouth, New the famous Mystic Seaport is located. The Mystic Seaport is an outstanding Hampshire is the former US Navy submarine USS Albacore which was built maritime museum and many preserved wooden boats are displayed here at the nearby Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in 1953. With a length of only 203 including fishing vessels and schooners which are unique to the New feet overall, Albacore was built as an experimental vessel and pioneered England region. the shape of all future nuclear powered submarines and as such its unique One of the highlights exhibited at Mystic is the Joseph Conrad, a steel, 111- design made a significant contribution to the development of US submarine foot vessel and one of the smallest full-rigged ships ever constructed. Built technology. in Denmark in 1882, Melbourne born Captain Alan Villiers bought the vessel In Boston Massachusetts, the USS Constitution, known as“Old Ironsides” is in 1934 and sailed the little ship on his famous two year voyage around the preserved at the old Boston Navy yard and is a wooden hull, three-masted world which included a visit to Australia. The seaport also features numerous frigate which was prominent in the war of 1812 against Britain. Still a unit of galleries and working exhibits including the art of wooden shipbuilding and preservation and a special research section which includes thousands of FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY the United States Navy, the Constitution is also the world’s oldest floating commissioned naval vessel. Moored ahead of the Constitution is USS Cassin images of vessels including the famous Rosenfeld collection. Young, a handsome Fletcher class destroyer which served with distinction A few miles south of Mystic is the city of New London on the Thames during the Second World War. River which is the main US Navy submarine base and where the US Navy’s Just south of Boston is the City of Quincy and the former Bethlehem Steel first nuclear powered submarine USS Nautilus is preserved. Named after shipyard on the Fore River - the birthplace of many a fine ship including the the fictitious vessel in Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Nautilus three famous Matson Trans Pacific Liners Mariposa, Monterey and Lurline forms the nucleus of the US Submarine Force museum. The submarine was which were regular visitors to Australia prior to the second world war. The launched in 1954 at the nearby General Dynamics shipyard at Groton by last two named vessels later served on Chandris Lines’ round world service Mrs. Dwight D. Eisenhower, wife of President Eisenhower. to Australia in the 1960’s and 70’s as Britanis and Ellinis. Currently the former Nautilus won the distinction of being the first ship to reach the geographic yard is a dedicated museum to US shipbuilding with its centrepiece being the North Pole on 5 August 1958 and from the North Pole in a voyage that former Des Moines class heavy cruiser USS Salem which was completed at commenced in the Barrow Sea, Alaska two days earlier. After reaching the the yard at the end of World War II. North Pole Nautilus proceeded east and after 96 hours and 1830 miles Further south in Massachusetts is “Battle Ship Cove” located at scenic Fall under the ice, the submarine surfaced northeast of Greenland, having with the battleship USS Massachusetts being the main feature at the museum completed the first successful voyage across the North Pole. along with the submarine Lionfish and the Gearing class destroyer Joseph Continuing the journey south down to New York the South Street Seaport P Kennedy, named after President John F Kennedy’s older brother, a war located near Wall Street financial precinct features a museum and several hero. President Kennedy and Mrs Kennedy used the destroyer as a viewing historic sailing ships and other vessels. The recent Hurricane Sandy in platform to watch the Americas’ Cup 12 meter yachting duel between the October 2012 created havoc to the New York waterfront with damage to US defender Weatherly and the Australian challenger Gretel off Newport the wharves and exhibition areas with the museum currently closed. The Rhode Island in September 1962. steel-hulled four-masted barque Peking built in 1911 in for the Newport is a short drive away from Fall River and currently there are plans German company F. Laeisz, better known as the Flying P-Line is the main to restore the decommissioned aircraft carrier USS John F Kennedy which exhibit at the South Street Seaport but is in poor condition due to a lack

USS Joseph P Kennedy USS Joseph P Kennedy painting at JFK Library Space Shuttle Enterprise Drawbridge Mystic

of funding and rumours persist that the vessel may return to Germany to be preserved there. Peking is a very significant ship and was one of the last generation of sailing ships used in the nitrate trade from Chile and wheat trade from Australia returning to Europe via Cape Horn. Another significant sailing ship displayed at South Street is the Wavertree Joseph Conrad on the built at Southampton, England in 1885 for R.W. Leyland & Company of slip at Mystic , which is also in poor condition with its future also in question. However the famous Ambrose light ship which is also on diplay appears to be well preserved. Heading up New York’s Westside and located near the Manhattan Cruise terminal is the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum one of America’s leading historic, cultural and educational institutions. The Museum is centered on the former Essex class aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, which was commissioned in 1943. Inrepid survived numerous Japanese Kamikaze and torpedo attacks during World War II and also participated in the Vietnam conflict. Intrepid also played an important role as one of the primary recovery vessels for NASA during the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo space programs and several space capsules are displayed on the ship’s expansive hangar deck. 39 Opened in 1982, the Intrepid Museum has since welcomed more than 10 Kingston II million visitors and serves as an educational centre and a monument to Mystic Seaport all who have served in the armed services. A recent addition to the flight deck is the former space shuttle Enterprise which is destined to become a great attraction for visitors to the Museum along with the world’s fastest commercial supersonic aircraft, a British Airways Concorde which is located on the wharf beside the ship. Heading south down to Camden, New Jersey on the Delaware River is the preserved Iowa class battleship USS New Jersey, a distinguished veteran of the conflicts during World War 2, Korea, Vietnam and Lebanon. Constructed across the river at the nearby Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, USS New Jersey continues to be a successful museum. Directly across the Delaware River from the battleship New Jersey lies the City of Philadelphia in Pennsylvania and historically significant Penn’s Landing where the Independence Seaport is located. USS Nautilus 2013 FEBRUARY The Independence Seaport and its main exhibit the Spanish-American War- era cruiser USS Olympia is also experiencing funding difficulties and the future of the Olympia is in some doubt. Olympia is a particularly significant ship having been built in 1892 and is most notable for being the flagship of Commodore George Dewey at the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898 and is one of the few pre dreadnought naval ships still afloat. It would be tragic if this significant ship is lost due to lack of funding to ensure its ongoing preservation. Further down the Delaware River at Philadelphia progress continues with the ambitious plans to convert the 52,000 ton SS United States, the fastest passenger liner ever built, into a hotel and maritime museum in either Philadelphia or New York. Laid up for over 40 years the United States was Peaking at South Street NYC built in 1952 and operated across the Atlantic in competition with the Cunard Queens until being retired in 1969. Now owned by the ss United States Conservancy, the future of this amazing ship appears positive and it is expected that the Conservancy will announce some exciting plans for the ship some time later this year. A trip to the maritime precincts in the United States North East corridor with its quaint little fishing ports and world class cities is always a rewarding experience for visitors. The quality of the museums, the ships and other exhibits are outstanding but preserved ships are costly to maintain and it is only through good patronage and support that these institutions can survive.

Wavertree at South Street NYC Wooden Fishing Boat Sabino at Mystic Roann at Mystic True North Down South By Tim Ryan Expedition ship True North operated by Broome based North has spent the summer months visiting Southern Australian waters as part of its annual circumnavigation of Australia. The luxurious little adventure ship visited New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia before returning to Fremantle to prepare for its 2014 season along the Western Australian Coast and the Kimberley region.

North Star Cruises Australia conducts adventure-cruises on True North around the Australian coastline and also the stunning waters of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. All cruises are activity based with extended 40 periods at sea specifically excluded with carefully features all ensuite cabins as well as in-cabin celebrations in Sydney which includes cruising crafted itineraries allowing the opportunity to entertainment and private satellite telephones up to the spectacular Hawkesbury River. True intimately experience each exciting destination. with passenger facilities including a sundeck, an North then proceeds to Sorrento in Victoria for Daily activities can include scenic walks, fishing, observation lounge, the ship’s lounge, an alfresco a promotional visit before heading to Adelaide snorkelling, diving, picnics, natural history and bar and a sports deck. to commence its Southern Safari exploring the cultural events. After completion of its Kimberley program coastline of Kangaroo Island and the Great in October, True North heads up to West Australian Bight with the cruise finishing in Founded by owner Craig Howson, North Star Papua in Indonesia to visit the idyllic waters Ceduna. Cruises Australia pioneered luxury adventure- of the Indonesian archipelago with one of the The True North experience provides a unique cruising along the Kimberley coast over 25 years highlights being swimming with the whale sharks ago with its first vessel being a converted fishing opportunity for a small number of guests to visit at Cederawasih Bay. The region is teeming with pristine areas largely uninhabited and untouched boat. The 50m True North was built by Austal fish and the on board marine biologist/naturalist Ships in 2005 at Fremantle and is purpose built by human intervention or settlement. The together with crewmembers provide expert privilege of meeting Papua New Guinea warriors to access remote wilderness areas and with a information sessions and participation in what maximum draft of 2.2 metres the vessel can dressed in war paint and tribal dress or diving must be one of the world’s greatest holiday in the idyllic waters of Western Australia or the reach inaccessible areas that bigger ships cannot experiences. visit. Bismarck Sea are just a few of the exciting True Upon completion of the West Papua program North offerings which dreams are made of. FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY True North spends much of the year between True North turns into the Bismarck Sea visiting March and September exploring the magnificent the pristine waters of Papua New Guinea Kimberley coast on either a one week or two including Rabaul, Madang and also a transit of week adventure-cruise alternating between the Sepik River, one of the most remote and Broome and Wyndham. Highlights include untouched regions on the planet. Without doubt anchoring at the mouth of the King George the beauty of the rugged islands and mountains River before crossing the sand bars at the river of Papua New Guinea along with its range of mouth at high tide revealing a breathtaking river tribal peoples is the ultimate experience for the vista while the journey upstream proceeds to the intrepid traveller. mighty King George Falls. Typically True North Before returning to the Australian East Coast for anchors at the base of the Twin Falls providing Christmas, True North offers a series of cruises guests with the opportunity to explore the in the Coral Sea visiting Kavieng, Alotau and the region whether climbing the sheer cliffs or take Louisades Archiepelago. Remote jungles, native the embarked Eurocopter Squirrel helicopter villages and coral islands to the top of the falls for a spectacular cruise are a feature of this highlight. unique area east of Papua Guests can visit waterholes, swim at “The New Guinea where the Crevice” or participate in a heli-picnic at Eagle friendly natives go out of Falls, another picture-perfect waterfall in their way to provide the remote far-north Western Australia. Guests can visitors with a special also embark on one of True North’s six aluminum experience. tenders exploring local beaches and rivers or True North offers a participating in further breathtaking helicopter series of Rocks Cruises flights across this vast and beautiful region. coinciding with the True North offers luxurious cuisine and start of the Sydney accommodation for 36 guests serviced by an to Hobart yacht race enthusiastic all Australian crew of 20. The ship and New Years Eve Tunis Tunisia is considered by many as the most stable country in Africa following political and social change since the “Jasmine Revolution” in January 2011. The first democratic elections were held on 23 October 2011 and a new coalition government was sworn in on 24 December 2011. However, political protests and strikes still occur. An interesting fact is that women hold 23% of the seats in the Chamber of Deputies and more than one-fifth of the seats in both chambers of parliament are held by women, an exceptionally high level in the Arab world. Tunisia has a history of more than 3,000 years purchase. Take a tip, spend most of your time carpet stores. which starts from the times of the Phoenicians around Carthage and then take a tour to the We are glad we had the opportunity to visit. to the modern times of French rule and Tunis Medina for a quick walk through the Souks, but Tunisia wants tourists and are working hard to consists of three cities: the modern Capital spend little time in the shops, especially the impress. JT/KT City with its wide streets, skyscrapers and busy sidewalk cafe and markets, the Arabic 41 Medina (old town) from the Middle Ages with its narrow alleyways home to small shops, huge mosques and palaces and Carthage, the ancient Phoenician – Roman city. Cruise ships arrive at a very modern port facility La Goulette a short bus ride from Carthage and about half an hour from the main city area. You can spend many hours walking around Carthage visiting the Roman amphitheatre, the baths, cisterns, cathedrals, museums and other areas. Carthage was once described as one of the most powerful cities in the Mediterranean by the end of the 6th century BC. The Medina contains 700 monuments (palaces,

mosques, mausoleums, madrasas and fountains) 2013 FEBRUARY of the ancient periods and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tunis can be a great place to shop, however the goods in the souks are overprized and you must be good at haggling to make a Celebrity Millennium’s Multi-Million Dollar Upgrade When Celebrity Millennium returned to Australia’s shores last November for the first time since 2009 she boasted new interiors and features after a major multi-million dollar renovation in the Bahamas in May 2012. The massive transformation took three weeks to complete and is the fourth and final Millennium Class ship to complete the cruise line’s US$140- million “Solsticizing” process – a major renovation program that takes the very best features of Celebrity’s new Solstice Class and retrofits them to the Millennium Class. In addition to several new cabins and verandas, one major Solstice Class enhancement to Celebrity Millennium is the introduction of Celebrity’s trendsetting AquaClass category of staterooms which offer the ultimate ‘modern luxury’ experience. These staterooms feature: spacious, private verandas, exclusive complimentary access to the stylish specialty restaurant, Blu, complimentary access to the Persian Garden and Relaxation Room in the AquaSpa, personal spa concierge to book exotic AquaSpa treatments and an abundance of in- room facilities and products including: use of plush Frette bathrobes and slippers, enhanced personal care products, Hansgrohe shower heads, fog- free bathroom mirrors, aromatherapy selections, and daily deliveries of complimentary bottled water and teas.

Celebrity Millennium now also features several new dining venues including the Bistro on Five creperie and Qsine, the first restaurant at 42 sea to present a menu and wine list on an iPad with quirky menu items such as popcorn shrimp in theatre-style popcorn boxes. Other upgrades include the hip Celebrity iLounge – an internet café which is also the cruise industry’s first authorised Apple reseller, the “cool” ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush, the inviting Café al Bacio and Gelateria and an expanded collection of original, contemporary art. FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Jeanine”. Named after the founder’s wife, this Regent Seven Seas boat offers an opportunity to discover France’s Three More Suite most beautiful river banks between Burgundy Cruises Launches and the Saône Valley. Authentic landscapes and Ships typical villages will be part of the program Avalon Waterways has stepped up the expansion New Blog for this brand new concept. Five different of its successful Suite Ship concept, announcing itineraries are available: The Doubs Valley, in the three new luxury vessels to enter service in heart of a region of natural and architectural 2014. The new ships will join their river cruise heritage - The most beautiful stops from the fleet in Europe and represent Avalon’s biggest Doubs Valley to Burgundy - Changes of scenery single fleet upgrade since its inception. Details and emotions from the Côte d’Or to Saône- are revealed in Avalon’s newly released 2014 et-Loire – France’s most beautiful river banks Preview Brochure, along with group discounts between Burgundy and the Saône Valley – The and early bird savings. most beautiful landscapes of Alsace/Moselle With the launch of the new ships – Avalon from Strasbourg to Xouaxange. With a capacity Impression, Avalon Poetry II and Avalon Illumination – the river cruise specialist will offer a total of eight Suite Ships in an overall European fleet of 13 modern vessels. Their The new blog celebrates the tastes and introduction will follow this year’s launch of tradition of the places visited by Regent Seven Avalon Artistry II and Avalon Expression in Seas Cruises along with valuable insider tips and April and May. destination information guests can use when planning their cruise vacation. More than 300 ports are visited every year. The cruise line has appointed Mara Papatheodorou as its special contributing editor. He will provide a regular blog feature called ‘Sail, Sip & Savour’ exploring the history of cuisine and culture in popular ports of 24 passengers, 12 spacious cabins with a of call and also provide suggestions on where window, MS Jeanine is 39 m long and 5.05 to dine locally and shop for special ingredients m wide. Each cabin with an outside view is and other products unique to the region. Other equipped with a bathroom, shower and toilet, a regular blog features include ‘More to Explore’ TV, a radio, an indoor telephone a safety deposit an inside look at the best tours and excursions box and air conditioning. On board, everything 43 has been designed to be convivial with a lounge Avalon’s new 2014 Preview brochure details 26 for every destination, and ‘Insider’ a behind the of its most popular river cruise itineraries on scenes look at the line from executives, staff bar, a restaurant, a sun deck with loungers and parasols, a Jacuzzi and a barbecue deck at the the great waterways of Europe, including the and crew as well as special announcements on Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Main, Rhône and Seine topics relevant to travellers. front of the boat for outdoor pleasure. In an innovative design, this houseboat which will rivers. Two of Avalon’s existing ships, Avalon Discovering the be renovated completely in April 2013 will Tranquility and Avalon Imagery, will leave the undoubtedly be one of the most modern boats fleet at the end of 2013. Both are less than Canals of France sailing in Europe. Bicycles are also available seven years old, but will be retired as part of As part of the company’s development for 2013 onboard. As with all the company’s other boats, Avalon’s commitment to maintain Europe’s and with the aim of introducing its customers to the quality of service is in keeping with the youngest fleet, with an average age of less than the charm of the canals of France, CroisiEurope CroisiEurope brand. This new vessel will be three years. is offering 7-day cruises on a barge, the “MS inaugurated in Strasbourg in April 2013. FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Travel Author to Launch Newest Suite Ship Avalon Waterways has named best-selling author Patricia Schultz to launch its newest luxury ship Avalon Expression, one of two new Suite Ships to join the river cruise operator’s fleet this year. The New York-based travel writer and author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die will christen the 83-cabin Expression at a ceremony on the Moselle at the scenic town of Cochem, Germany, on May 6. As a travel journalist for the past 25 years, Ms Schultz has written for guides including Frommer’s and Berlitz as well as for publications including The Wall Street Journal. She was executive producer of a Travel Channel television show based on her 1,000 Places to See Before You Die best-seller. Meanwhile, Avalon has chosen high-profile Philippine travel industry identity Marilen Sandejas-Yaptangco to launch its other new ship Avalon Artistry II in April, reflecting the company’s growing presence in Asia. The 64-cabin Artistry II will be christened at a canal-side ceremony in the historic Dutch town of Middelburg on April 11. Ms Sandejas-Yaptangco is President and Chief Executive Officer of Manila-based Baron Travel. She is a respected figure in Philippine tourism and a past two-term President of the Philippine Travel Agencies Association. The introduction of Avalon Expression and Avalon Artistry II will give Avalon a total of five Suite Ships in an overall European fleet of 12 luxury vessels. The first Avalon Suite Ship the 83-cabin Avalon Panorama was launched in 2011. The ships feature two decks of all-suite accommodation and wall-to-wall panoramic windows that draw back to turn the entire cabin into an open-air balcony. Designed with Australian travellers in mind, Panorama was a sell-out success, prompting the introduction of sister Suite Ships Avalon Vista and Avalon Visionary in 2012, and the upcoming Avalon Expression and Avalon Artistry II. Avalon Waterways offers more than 30 different river cruise itineraries on the great waterways of Europe, including the Rhine, Danube, Main, Moselle, Seine and Rhône. It also offers 16 other itineraries on the Mississippi, the Yangtze, the Nile and the Mekong, as well as among the Galápagos Islands.

44 New 2013 Theme Cruises American Cruise Lines has announced the addition of three brand new theme cruises for 2013, including a Gold Rush theme cruise in Alaska, a Civil War Eastern Theatre theme cruise to complement the Western Theatre cruise offered on the Mississippi River and a new Enrichment theme cruise to relax the mind, body and soul of guests aboard the New England Islands itinerary. On the Gold Rush – Alaska Inside Passage 20 July 2013 guests will FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY experience rugged mountains and stunning glaciers as they explore Gold Rush history. They’ll board the historic White Pass Yukon Railroad, a narrow- gauge railroad built in 1898 during the Gold Rush to transport miners. A stop in Skagway, a newly added port of call, will allow guests to discover Klondike Gold Rush National Park. Following the popularity of Civil War theme cruises on the Mississippi River, American Cruise Lines has introduced the theme to the East Coast on 6 April 2013. On this new cruise, guests will discover the Eastern Theatre of the American Civil War, visiting pivotal cities of MasterChef Julie Goodwin the South such as Charleston, where some of the first shots of the Civil War were fired in 1861. In Savannah, guests will enjoy an eye-opening and the PS Murray Princess tour of its Colonial, Revolutionary and Civil War history; as well as its many fascinating historic buildings and monuments. They’ll visit historic Australia’s first ‘MasterChef’ winner and resident cook on Channel battle grounds such as the site of the Battle of Fort Sumter in South Nine’s Today Show, Julie Goodwin, has partnered with Captain Cook Carolina. The 6 July 2013 Enrichment: Mind, Body & Soul – New England Cruises and will be holding three cooking demonstrations for passengers Islands cruise will allow guests to relax and unwind in their spacious and onboard the 4 night Murray River cruise departing 10 June 2013. elegantly appointed staterooms. An assortment of unique onboard and ‘I’m so looking forward to working with Captain Cook Cruises and onshore activities are offered, which will energize and revitalize the guests: visiting the beautiful Murray River again. I’ll be creating some delicious Morning yoga classes, walking groups, painting sessions and a presentation dishes using the amazing produce from the South Australia region, and it on health-conscious cooking and cuisine will be featured. will be great meeting the passengers and having some fun in the kitchen Additional theme cruises offered in 2013 include: Lobster Festival Cruise with them. I am also excited to have the opportunity to partake in the on 20 July and Culinary & Wine Themed Cruise on 4 May 2013. cruise with my family” said Julie Goodwin. “With just 120 places available on the cruise, food and wine lovers wishing to combine their passion with a visit to the Murray, a region famous for its food and wine, and the opportunity to meet Julie Goodwin, would need to move quickly to All-Inclusive River Cruises guarantee their place on board.” says Richard Doyle, Head of Sales and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection will introduce all-inclusive Marketing, Captain Cook Cruises. river cruises throughout Europe. Currently Uniworld offers a host of The four night Julie Goodwin Cooking Cruise departs from Mannum inclusions such as; all non-alcoholic beverages, fine wine and beer served on 10 June 2013 at 4.30pm, returning to Mannum on Friday 14 June at during lunch and dinner aboard, fully hosted and locally guided shore 9.00am. excursions, free Internet and Wi-Fi onboard, and all arrival and departure Passengers also have the option to stay onboard and extend to a seven day transfers. Next year, Uniworld will expand its services and amenities night cruise and visit the region between Walkers Flat and Murray Bridge, to feature 24 hour dining including unlimited fine wine, beer, and spirits, including a tour to the Barossa Valley and its wineries. The seven night and all gratuities while onboard and onshore including pre and post-cruise cruise returns 17 June 2013. extensions.

Myanmar (Burma) Itinerary for 2014

Viking River Cruises has announced a new 16-day itinerary in Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand—Memories of Mandalay—marking the company’s first-ever offering on the majestic Irrawaddy River. “Burma is a magical destination in Southeast Asia, and we are pleased to offer our guests the opportunity to explore its rich history and spiritual wonders first hand,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking River Cruises. “We look forward to bringing our considerable forts of Minhla & Gwechaung, to the Golden experience and award-winning service to the temple of Mya-Tha-Lun Pagoda in Magway Irrawaddy River in 2014.” and the monasteries of Salé and Bagan, guests Ancient temples and exotic scenery serve as the will visit the region’s most magnificent sites. New Wine Itinerary backdrop for the itinerary. This 16-day journey Passengers will also gain a sense for everyday begins in the lively metropolis of Bangkok, life in Burma in the pottery villages of Yandabo in France where guests will explore the city’s colourful and an understanding of its ancient past in the landmarks, including the floating markets on former Burmese capitals of Ava and Amarapura. In historic Mandalay, the Mahamuni Pagoda, with Viking River Cruises has announced a new the Chao Phraya River and the famous Grand Palace. The land portion of the itinerary its gold-leaf statue of the Buddha, and itinerary in France’s Bordeaux region for Shwenandaw Golden Palace monastery, with 2014 that will celebrate the senses. The eight- continues in Yangon, the former Burmese capital also known as Rangoon. Guests will its exquisite teak carvings, are just a few of the day cruise “Châteaux, Rivers & Wine” will city’s incredible offerings. On the final stop of allow guests to enjoy the beauty and history admire the city’s colonial-era architecture along 46 Strand Road and historic Buddhist temples, the itinerary guests return to Bangkok, where of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region, while they may explore the city’s famous canals and exploring some of the world’s finest names in some thought to be more than 2,500 years old. Guests will also have a chance to visit a local distinctive stupas (spires) and wander through wine. Guests will sail on Viking Forseti, marking marketplace and to see Shwedagon Pagoda, local marketplaces to celebrate their last night the first time an award-winning Viking Longship sometimes called the Golden Pagoda, the in this magnificent region. will be deployed in France. “Our itineraries most sacred Buddhist pagoda in France have always been very popular, and for the Burmese. A tribute to we are pleased to introduce this unique new the grand tradition of riverboat experience in the Bordeaux region,” said exploration in Southeast Asia, Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking River the newly refurbished Viking Cruises. “We have designed an itinerary that Mandalay offers guests the allows our guests to explore this historically chance to experience the diverse fascinating region and enjoy some of the destinations along the Irrawaddy world’s most celebrated wines.” River from the comfort of one of Châteaux, Rivers & Wine takes guests on a the newest and most beautifully unique exploration of the Dordogne, Garonne designed vessels in the region. FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY and Gironde Rivers, through the region that From the colonial frontier post has for centuries produced France’s most of Thayetmyo and the Italian-built remarkable wines including Margaux, Pomerol, St. Emilion and Sauternes. The cruise journey begins in Bordeaux and makes its first stop in Pauillac, where guests can sip the full-bodied blends of the renowned Médoc and Margaux Moonshadow wine regions and travel along the famed Route Cruises now in des Châteaux for an insight into authentic château life. Next, guests have the opportunity Newcastle! to explore the Citadel in Blaye and the charming town of St. Emilion—both UNESCO Moonshadow Cruises now has a vessel World Heritage sites—before continuing on to permanently in Newcastle Harbour to operate picturesque Cadillac, where they can taste the Dinner, Luncheon and Harbour Sights and Sounds Cruises exploring the largest coal sweet Premier Cru wines from the Sauternes export harbour in the world. The vessel will region. The unhurried voyage concludes with also be available for Private Charters, Product an in-depth tour of the beautiful churches, Launches, Weddings, Birthdays and many more grand Louis XV architecture and charming special occasions. cafes of Bordeaux. To enhance appreciation and understanding of the Aquitaine Valley during the journey, Viking’s Culture Curriculum on Châteaux, Rivers & Wine has been designed Explore on Bicycles with the assistance of local experts to provide opportunities for passengers to experience Scenic Tours are offering complimentary various aspects of the regional culture. electronically assisted bicycles for use by guests Guests may learn to make tender canelés, on their European river cruises. Guests may a caramelized custard pastry, observe the choose a guided tour with a local guide or a GPS self-guided Scenic Tailormade experience. winemaking traditions that have made the area Everyone on board a Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ is so famous, begin or expand their appreciation provided with their very own handheld device of fine Bordeaux wines with the guidance of providing flexible and independent sightseeing a master sommelier, and brush up on their options for the duration of the river cruise. conversational French with optional on board The electronically assisted bicycles have special lessons. mounts for a self-guided tour device making it Guests will travel on the state-of-the-art impossible to get lost and allowing for the most Viking Forseti, which will be the newest and convenient and relaxing form of exploration. most innovative ship to sail the rivers of the During the river cruise, the Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ Aquitaine Valley and the first Viking Longship will stop at many bike-friendly towns boasting to sail in France. wide, flat paths along river banks.

Welcome to Port Arthur

Reminiscing on the Yangtze by Mike Smith

The former voice of LRB, Glenn Shorrock, had 116 Australian fans heading down memory lane on a recent cruise of the Yangtze River, aboard Victoria Cruises’ luxury vessel, Jenna.

Booked through leading China specialist Helen Wong’s Tours to perform a mini concert for a large group of Sydney radio 2UE listeners, Glenn showed he hadn’t lost his touch when he opened with his band’s largest worldwide hit, Reminiscing. One hit he wrote for LRB – Cool Change – followed. And, yes there was an encore at the end of the show. “It was a great finale to a day spent exploring the spectacular Three Gorges,” said the UK born singer-songwriter who was the inaugural lead singer of the Little River Band. “I, however, never thought I would be singing to a group of Australians on a cruise of the Yangtze. I must do something similar again, perhaps in a different location.” 48 Passengers paid $5300 per person twin share from Australia for the Helen Wong’s Tours 12-day Cruise the Yangtze tour which also had as special guests leading Sydney weekend radio identities, George Moore and Paul B Kidd, and included visits to Beijing, Chongqing and Shanghai. For an artist who fronted a group with seven top 10 hits in the USA in the 1970s, Glenn seemed to choose well to share some of his former band’s hits with travelling companions, not on the Mississippi, but China’s Yangtze, the world’s third longest river. Not only did he enjoy seeing for the first time the breathtaking features of the famous FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Three Gorges – Qutang, Wu and Xiling. He had ample time to mingle with the fans on a cruise which stretched over three nights. Built in 2009 with a capacity to cater for 378 passengers, Victoria Jenna is the newest member of an ever-expanding American- owned Victoria Cruises fleet which includes such vessels as Katarina, Anna, Grace, Sophia, Lianna and Selina. Gourmet dining which includes both western and Chinese cuisine is a feature along with general nightly entertainment, fashion shows, Tai Chi classes and lectures ranging from discussions on Chinese medicines to chats on the region and Chinese history and culture. There are also side excursions to such fascinating centres as Fengdu as well as mini cruises along the Daning River (to see the Lesser Gorges) and the Shennong Stream. Another highlight is the tour of the massive 2335-metre long and 185-metre high Three Gorges Dam which, when completed saw a dramatic rise in the water depth and ultimate flooding of 13 cities, 140 towns, 1352 villages, hectares upon hectares of farmland and the relocation of just under two million habitants. So successful was the recent tour that Helen Wong’s Tours plans to arrange further celebrity tours in 2013.

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Ships featured on both pages from top of pages across and down: Crystal Symphony (Robert Miller), Carnival Spirit (Roger Cantwell), Voyager of the Seas (Tim Ryan), Seabourn Odyssey (John Treacy), Volendam (Roger Cantwell), Nautica (John Treacy), Horizon (Marek Holden), SuperStar Aquarius and Aegean Odyssey (Roger Cantwell), MSC Orchestra (John Treacy), (Ron Quirk) Costa Mediterranean (John Treacy), Seven Seas Voyager (Andrew Mackinnon), Oosterdam (Robert Miller), Silver Shadow (John Treacy), Arcadia (Ron Quirk), Grand Celebration (John Treacy) and Celebrity Solstice (Andrew Mackinnon). Mark Taylor AO Appointment as Public Relations Cruising Ambassador Director of Sales Manager Appointed for World Wide Cruise Centres Anton Loeb has been appointed Mark Taylor will always Director of Sales be remembered as one of for Carnival Cruise Australia’s finest cricket Lines Australia captains, opening batsmen and New Zealand. and slips fieldsmen. Mark Bringing over 15 played 104 Tests for years’ travel sales Australia – 50 as captain experience, Anton – between 1989 and 1999 will lead Carnival As it celebrates ten years’ cruising from Australia and retired from the game Cruise Lines’ Princess Cruises has taken an important step in with a commendable new, dedicated its growth story with the appointment of a public batting average of 43.50 team of Business relations manager for Australia and New Zealand. and 157 catches (then the Development Managers as they build their travel Meg Koffel, with ten years’ experience in public world record). During his reign as Australia’s Test agent partners’ Carnival Cruise Lines business. relations, marketing and events in the private captain from 1994 to 1999 he was at the helm of Former Head of Sales for Cover-More Travel and public sectors, including six years devoted several historic overseas series victories: Australia’s Insurance, Anton’s extensive knowledge of to tourism, has started in the new position this first in South Africa in 40 years, first in Pakistan in the travel industry, and his proven expertise in month. Princess Cruises Commercial Director in 39 years and first in the Caribbean in 22 years. developing sound sales strategies, will make him Australia Alan Stuart said recruitment of a brand Leeton-born Taylor scored 19 Test centuries and a valuable addition to the Carnival Cruise Lines specific public relations manager was a natural 40 scores over 50 for Australia and will always family. His previous experience includes years progression for Princess Cruises, which has played be remembered for his all-conquering 334 not working with reputable travel organisations such an integral part in the remarkable growth of the out against Pakistan in 1998 which enabled him as Contiki and The Globus Family of Brands. local cruise market. to join Sir Donald Bradman on Australia’s then Meg Koffel pictured with Nick Ferguson (Marketing highest-ever Test score. Mark toured England on Manager) and Alan Stuart three occasions as a member of Ashes-winning Australian teams – in 1989, 1993 (as vice-captain) th 52 and 1997 (as captain). On his debut tour (1989), 2000 Commodore Named he scored 839 runs in Tests, making him the P&O Cruises Academy is celebrating a milestone with the graduation of second highest run-getter on Ashes tours behind its 2000th Commodore from the training program. Travel consultant Alana Sir Donald Bradman. In 2003, Mark Taylor, the Pearce from Flight Centre Mountain Gate in Victoria, climbed the ranks of the 1999 Australian of the Year and 1995 NSW Father academy program from First Officer to Commodore in under five months, of the Year, was awarded the Order of Australia achieving the result in December. The online training program is designed to (AO in the General Division) for his services to boost product knowledge and improve sales and features 24 modules and cricket and charity and the Centenary Medal for a final exam, covering topics such as customer service and sales, onboard his services to cricket and the community. He is a products, destinations, and selling technology, including documentation and member of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and POLAR Online. the NSW Sports Centre Hall of Champions. In Academy training also offers a range of benefits including education credits with ICCA, priority access 1997, Mark was a Founding Director of Sporting to shipboard events, access to graduation cruises and special offers and promotions. The P&O Cruises Chance Cancer Foundation which helps finance Academy now boasts more than 8000 registered travel agents across Australia and New Zealand. research into the treatment of cancer. Mark Taylor Commodore Alana Pearce with Complete Cruise Solution’s new business partnership manager Kylie in 2011 was inducted in the Australian Cricket Clancy Hall of Fame, joining such luminaries as Sir Donald

FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Bradman, Victor Trumper, Bill O’Reilly, Keith Miller, Community Service Arthur Morris, brothers Ian and Greg Chappell, Local maritime historian Chris Frame recently Richie Benaud and Dennis Lillee. To mark his delivered a lecture at the Bethanie Mt. Claremont playing days with Northern Districts in Sydney, Social Centre in Perth. The lecture, about the Mark Taylor in 2011 had the honour of having the history of the famous ocean liner QE2, shared club’s home ground, Waitara Oval, renamed Mark with the clients of the social centre the history, Taylor Oval. Mark, who has written three books, is life and times of QE2 over her 40 year history. a long-established member of the Nine Network’s Clients of the social centre have also played host cricket commentary team. to a cruising seminar held by Cruise Guru in He is looking forward to his role at World Wide which Chris offered a short history of the cruise Cruise Centres. “I first started cruising in the late industry. Bethanie’s Mt. Claremont social centre 1990s with my wife, Judi. We were a little unsure specializes in care and activities for over-55’s in if I would enjoy the experience. Our first cruise the local area, as well as offering a weekly activity was to the Mediterranean (Barcelona to Rome) and care service for younger people with disabilities. The centre ensures the elderly and disabled in the for nine days. We loved it! Since that day, we have community are able to access high quality entertainment, services, care and meals. Many of the become regular Cruisers and have enjoyed visiting places such as Tahiti, Greek Islands, Canada and clients at Bethanie have seen, heard of or even travelled on QE2 Alaska. It is a great way to relax and experience the many different parts of the world. I like the Celebrity Cruises has received glowing reports from agencies that have been board all saying that design, décor and the food were fantastic. Photos from onboard below. fact that you can choose to either ‘cruise hard’ and do many shore excursions or simply relax, stay on board the ship and enjoy the service and facilities that are on offer. I can’t wait until my next cruise!!”

Mark Taylor will be featured in various marketing campaigns for World Wide Cruise Centres as part of his ambassadorial role.

From left to right top row then bottow row - Darryl & Karen Muspratt from Eseacruising, Anne Graham & Julie Ricardo from Just Cruises, Jess Lindsley from Flight Centre Warrawong & Alice Bagoly from Flight Centre Woollongong, Lisa Hall & Craig Gold from Travelscene Bathurst, Matthew & Julia Chisholm from Chisholm & Turner Travel Associates, Julie Ricardo from Just Cruises & Rob Shaw from Royal Caribbean, Heather Pryde, Courtney Goodsell, Sharon Grant from Flight Centre. website (www.cruisenewzealand.org.nz) is being refreshed and this new site is scheduled to be NEWS completed in mid-March and will provide New Zealand’s cruise industry stakeholders an easy FROM to use one-stop information resource. For more details

Raewyn Tan Queens Wharf Executive Officer Cruise New Zealand Shed 10 – Cruise M +64 22 090 7752 E [email protected] Terminal www.cruisenewzealand.org.nz

‘Cruise Forward’ From the CDU desk: Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) CDU members has launched ‘Cruise Forward’, a new industry- have had wide communications initiative that will promote little rest this awareness of cruising’s wide-ranging contributions summer, with and engage stakeholders across the global cruise yet another industry. CLIA President and CEO Christine record Duffy said the initiative, which includes a ‘Cruise breaking season. As most people headed Forward’ website and Facebook page, aimed away on Christmas breaks, those involved to show that the global cruise industry offered in the cruise industry were busy facilitating more than a great travel and entertainment successful port visits. Auckland will have a new and very unique cruise experience, also delivering benefits like economic I was fortunate to witness the way in which terminal for the 2013-14 cruise season for the development and cultural exchange. the cruise industry works with a destination 200,000 cruise passengers and up to 80,000 ‘Cruise Forward’ will showcase how the industry and activities going on in it, as I was involved crew who arrive each season. is: Delivering significant economic benefits: The in running six youth sailing regattas on the Shed 10 on Queens Wharf, a 100 year old 53 cruise industry generated nearly $100 billion Derwent River in Hobart. During the three registered historic building, is being refurbished week event program eight called to the port in economic impact and more than 753,000 by Auckland Council as the new cruise terminal. of Hobart. During these visits, the cruise Contemporary features such as large lifts, jobs worldwide in 2011. Supporting community ships had to negotiate a channel up the escalator and other functional amenities for organizations: Whether providing financial river, often through fleets of over 500 sailing the double storey cargo shed, are designed to support to local charities, protecting the cultural dinghy’s, with as small as seven year olds at enable the building to operate successfully as heritage of port communities, or involving the helm. The Masters of the ships were so both a cruise terminal and an event facility whilst employees and guests in volunteer opportunities, willing to work around the sailing courses respecting the heritage fabric of the building. cruising makes a difference in hundreds of ports and slow their approaches to the port. The The refurbishment works will retain or across the globe. Safeguarding the oceans and the interstate and international visitors were reinstate original features of the Shed allowing environment: Cruise lines are actively working also thrilled to experience such a vibrant close appreciation of the rustic steel and timber to reduce the overall environmental impact of waterway, all working together. construction which includes magnificent native cruising and preserve and protect our pristine As we head into March, the CDU team wood flooring, substantial Australian hardwood oceans, beaches and ports. Fostering a safe, secure heads to Miami for the annual Cruise joists and single span steel roof trusses. As and healthy cruise ship environment: The global Shipping Miami event. This year we will be well as allowing visitors to appreciate the cruise industry is committed to undertaking hosting an Aussie BBQ at the stand so that FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Shed’s working heritage, the refurbishment will initiatives that provide passengers one of cruise executives can become familiar with offer wide views of the Waitemata Harbour, the safest, affordable, and enjoyable vacation one of the simple but iconic traditions of the Rangitoto volcano, the city and working experiences available today. our country. waterfront. Ms Duffy said those closest to the cruise industry Cruise Shipping Miami continues to deliver Extensive use of natural light and ventilation, knew the many benefits it delivered such as the opportunities to promote our region the addition of solar power panels on the roof value of cultural exchange and the volunteerism and further develop the strong business to feed the electricity grid and the reuse of that happens every day from passengers, crew to business relationships with our cruise rainwater will allow Shed 10 to be sustainable and employees. “We must do more to share partners, established over many years now. into the future. The addition of cultural art these stories and ‘Cruise Forward’ will help us We have a strong team attending this year works and the curating of heritage artefacts will do just that and also increase public awareness with representation from key ports, tourism organisations and suppliers. add to the Sheds appeal. regarding the industry’s extensive commitment to With the 2012-13 cruise season well Auckland is one of the few cities where a supporting community partnerships, safeguarding advanced, we start to collect the valuable cruise vessel can berth in the heart of the city. the environment and delivering wide-ranging data on port visits that will be translated The Shed 10 refurbishment will increase the economic benefits worldwide,” Ms Duffy said. into our economic impact study. This years’ potential of the cruise industry to contribute to Ms Duffy announced in December that nine study will provide us with nine consecutive the visitor economy. The Auckland Visitor Plan regional cruise industry associations – including years of comparative data. The study will be outlines the city’s aim of increasing the annual the International Cruise council Australasia - released at the CDU Conference being held visitor economy from $3 billion to around $6 would form a common organisation to serve from the 11th to 13th September in Cairns. billion per annum by 2021. as the voice and advocacy leader of the global The cruise industry is an important part cruise industry. Under the changes being rolled Further Details – and all media enquiries: of the visitor economy and the new cruise out this year, ICCA will become known as Cruise Jill Abel terminal will go a long way to improving the Lines International Association Australasia or General Manager, Cruise Down Under visitor experience for the thousands of cruise CLIA Australasia. International Cruise Council Tel/Fax: +61 3 62237334 passengers that experience Auckland each year Australasia General Manager Brett Jardine said Mob: 0419 511 966 and will maximise the opportunity to grow the his organisation was looking forward to using overall economic benefit for Auckland. ‘Cruise Forward’ to showcase the work of its Following on from the success of Queens cruise line members in the local region. Wharf, which attracted more than 1 million ‘Cruise Forward” will serve as a global platform visitors during RWC 2011 and tens of thousands for representatives from the cruise industry for the World Triathlon Championships, the to engage industry stakeholders – customers, refurbishment of Shed 10 will further enhance employees, business partners, port communities, the Wharf’s ability to host events, as well as an policymakers and the media – across social media impressive public space reflecting the culture and at industry and community events to foster a Keeping you informed and heritage of Auckland and New Zealand global discussion about the benefits that cruising with the latest news & and an opportunity to connect with Waitemata brings to individuals and to society. Harbour. information Also Cruise New Zealand will once again be For additional information, please see www. about the Global Cruise representing its members at March’s Cruise CruiseForward.org or join Cruise Forward on Shipping Miami. The Cruise New Zealand’s Facebook (Facebook.com/CruiseForward). Passenger Industry LOCATIONS TO SPOT SHIPS AUSTRALIA Celebrity Solstice Mar 4/5, Sea Princess Feb 17, 25: Pacific Dawn Mar 16: Published 27/28: Apr 7/8: Radiance of the Seas Mar 2: PICTON DARWIN Queen Mary 2 Mar 7, 19: Arcadia Mar 8: Diamond Princess Feb 18, 25: Diamond Princess Mar 8/9: Queen Mary 2 Mar 11: Seabourn Odyssey Feb 19: February, April, June, Crystal Symphony Feb 19: Caledonian Sky Mar 10: Celebrity Solstice Mar 16: Asuka II Feb 22: August, October & December Artania Feb 23: Marina Mar 13/14: Pacific Dawn Mar 19: Pacific Pearl Mar 23: Celebrity Solstice Feb 24: Carnival Spirit Mar 21: Apr 2, Ocean Princess Mar 24: Radiance of the Seas Apr 22: Publisher/Editor Voyager of the Seas Feb 27: 11, 21, 29: Pacific Pearl Apr 19, 29: Europa Mar 4: John Treacy Ocean Princess Mar 29: Balmoral Mar 8: TAURANGA Dawn Princess Mar 31: Apr 28: Oosterdam Feb 18: Mar 28: Associate Editor Seabourn Odyssey Mar 10: NAPIER Sun Princess Apr 1: Aurora Feb 18: Apr 1: Sea Princess Mar 13: Kerry Treacy Caledonian Sky Feb 19: Diamond Princess Feb 21, 23; Diamond Princess Mar 15: Queen Elizabeth Feb 21: Seabourn Odyssey Feb 22: Ocean Princess Apr 6: Advertising Carnival Spirit Feb 23: Mar 8: Sun Princess Feb 23: Mar 9: Sun Princess Apr 7: NEWCASTLE John Treacy & Associates Rhapsody of the Seas Feb 19: Sun Princess Feb 24: Mar 10: Voyager of the Seas Feb 24: Dawn Princess Apr 9: Ph + 61 7 33496788 Mar 24: Voyager of the Seas Feb 25: Carnival Spirit Feb 24: Mar 9: PORT DOUGLAS Radiance of the Seas Apr 18: Dawn Princess Feb 25: Mar Marina Feb 25, 28: Mar 27: 9, 22: Dawn Princess Feb 26: Mar Diamond Princess Mar 12: PO Box 2005 Mansfield Sea Princess Feb 27: 8, 21: Celebrity Solstice Apr 1: MELBOURNE Oosterdam Feb 27: Mar 18: Marina Mar 2: Sea Princess Feb 26: Queensland Australia 4122 Pacific Dawn Apr 3: Apr 11: Arcadia Mar 7: Radiance of the Seas Mar 1: Dawn Princess Apr 6: Email: [email protected] Carnival Spirit Mar 1, 14: Bremen Mar 15: Celebrity Solstice Mar 15, 17: Web Site YORKEYS KNOB Pacific Pearl Mar 2: Pacific Dawn Mar 17: Bremen Mar 17: Dawn Princess Mar 3, 9, 16, Oosterdam Mar 27: Apr 2: Pacific Dawn Mar 18: Celebrity Solstice Feb 27: www.cruisingnews.com 29: Apr 23: Ocean Princess Mar 25: Mar 31: Costa Deliziosa Mar 4: NELSON Pre-Press Queen Mary 2 Mar 2: Caledonian Sky Mar 6: Bremen Mar 11: Pacific Dawn Apr 2: Motivart Diamond Princess Mar 6: NEW CALEDONIA CAIRNS Celebrity Solstice Mar 7, 25: AKAROA Marina Mar 11, 17: Queen Elizabeth Feb 23: Seabourn Odyssey Mar 5: NOUMEA Queen Mary 2 Mar 21: Oosterdam Feb 24: Mar 25: Artania Feb 19: Marina Feb 20: Photos this issue –Celebrity Cruises, Cunard, Radiance of the Seas Mar 31: Apr 4: Rhapsody of the Seas Feb Arcadia Feb 23: Oceanic Cruises, RCI, Silversea, Princess Cruises, Radiance of the Seas Feb 26: 22/23: Mar 27/28: Pacific Dawn Feb 25: Mar 4, 25: Apr 5: Azamara Cruises, MSC Cruises, Holland America, Seabourn Quest Feb 22: HOBART Apr 8, 15, 22: Balmoral Feb 23: Sun Princess Feb 26: Mar 12: 54 Ian Hunter, SeaDream Yacht Club, Fred Olsen Line, Europa Feb 27: Pacific Jewel Mar 7, 21: Caledonian Sky Mar 1: Diamond Princess Feb 27: Pacific Princess Mar 7: Rhapsody of the Seas Mar 8: Carnival Australia, APT, Captain Cook Cruises Fiji, Voyager of the Seas Mar 3: Sea Princess Mar 1: Caledonian Sky Mar 15: Apr 6, 21, 28: CroisiEurope, Avalon Waterways, Viking River Pacific Pearl Mar 4: Marina Mar 4, 24: Radiance of the Seas Apr 15: Oosterdam Mar 13: Apr 16: Cruises, Moonshadow Cruises, Scenic Tours, John & Diamond Princess Mar 4: Arcadia Mar 5: Pacific Pearl Mar 14, 30: Apr 9: Kerry Treacy TOWNSVILLE Marina Mar 9, 19: Carnival Spirit Mar 6: Sun Princess Mar 20: Carnival Spirit Mar 17/18: Dawn Princess Mar 11, 24: Seabourn Quest Feb 21: Carnival Spirit Mar 24: Apr Oosterdam Mar 20: Apr 9: Celebrity Solstice Mar 12, 20: Seabourn Odyssey Mar 4: 7, 18, 24: Radiance of the Seas Mar 29: Queen Mary 2 Mar 14: Celebrity Solstice Apr 11: BRISBANE Dawn Princess Apr 25: Pacific Dawn Mar 15: Pacific Pearl Mar 22: Pacific Dawn Feb 23: Mar 2, 9, 23, 30: Apr 6, 13, 20, 27, 30: BURNIE Pacific Princess Mar 1; Rhapsody of the Seas Feb 27: DUNEDIN Other Ships: Pacific Pearl Mar 3: Dawn Princess Feb 22: Mar Apr 1: Orion - Cruising various Saga Ruby Mar 12: 12, 25: Sun Princess Mar 4, 18, 29: locations – Kimberleys, Papua Carnival Spirit Mar 16: Caledonian Sky Feb 23: NEXT ISSUE Radiance of the Seas Mar 8: New Guinea, Melanesian & Dawn Princess Apr 24: Oosterdam Feb 24: Mar 24: Apr 11: , Australian Apr 5: Aurora Feb 24: Coast, Antarctica, New Zealand FREMANTLE Radiance of the Seas Feb 25: MID APRIL 2013 Europa Feb 24: Reef Endeavour – The Fiji Amsterdam Feb 25: Apr 4: Arcadia Feb 25: Islands – year around cruises Costa Deliziosa Mar 8: Voyager of the Seas Feb 27: Queen Victoria Feb 26: True North – Cruising the

FEBRUARY 2013 FEBRUARY Voyager of the Seas Mar 9: Sun Princess Feb 27: Mar 13: Seabourn Odyssey Mar 1: Kimberly area, Top End, Papua Radiance of the Seas Mar 22: Diamond Princess Feb 28: Balmoral Mar 1: New Guinea and Sydney Queen Mary 2 Mar 26: Sea Princess Mar 2: Celebrity Solstice Mar 2: Apr 5: Oceanic Discoverer/Coral Dawn Princess Apr 16: Arcadia Mar 4: Queen Mary 2 Mar 5: Princess - Cruising various Carnival Spirit Mar 5: Dawn Princess Apr 2: locations- Australia/New Celebrity Solstice Mar 11, 21: Sea Princess Apr 13: ADELAIDE Zealand/New Caledonia/Papua Amsterdam Feb 20: Pacific Dawn Mar 14: New Guinea SYDNEY Voyager of the Seas Mar 5: Bremen Mar 18: Murray Princess - Cruising Queen Mary 2 Mar 23: Pacific Pearl Mar 21: Voyager of the Seas Feb 19: the Murray River throughout Radiance of the Seas Mar 27: Europa Mar 23: Radiance of the Seas Feb 20: the year Dawn Princess Apr 21: Mar 6: Apr 9, 19: Blue Lagoon Cruises – Ships Sea Princess Feb 21: Mar 6: WELLINGTON cruising Fijian Islands Diamond Princess Feb 19, 26: Apr 15: Caledonian Sky Feb 20: Europa Feb 21/22: NEW ZEALAND (Data shown, sourced from Queen Elizabeth Feb 22: Aurora Feb 22: AUCKLAND cruise line schedules, port Oosterdam Feb 22: Mar 26: Queen Victoria Feb 23/24: Queen Victoria Feb 19: schedules and brochures, MSC Christening Apr 3: Balmoral Feb 25-27: Queen Elizabeth Feb 20: is believed to be correct at Carnival Spirit Feb 22: Mar 7: Seabourn Odyssey Feb 27: Oosterdam Feb 20: Mar 29/30: time of printing – schedules Pacific Pearl Feb 23: Arcadia Feb 27/28: Sun Princess Feb 22: Mar 8: can change at short notice Dawn Princess Feb 24: Mar 10: Pacific Pearl Feb 28: Mar 8, 17, Diamond Princess Feb 22: and readers should check Costa Deliziosa Feb25: 27: Apr 6, 15: Voyager of the Seas Feb 23: dates prior to arriving at the Sun Princess Feb 25: Mar 11: Costa Deliziosa Feb28-Mar 2: Seabourn Odyssey Feb 23: locations to see ships- some Radiance of the Seas Feb 27: Rhapsody of the Seas Mar 1, Costa Deliziosa Feb23: ships will visit other locations Apr 6, 23: 11, 23: Apr 3, 12, 24: Asuka II Feb 24: and dates for some ships are Sea Princess Feb 28: Oosterdam Mar 2/3, 16: Pacific Princess Feb 25: incomplete) ( Dunedin = Port Marina Mar 3, 25: Apr 13: Carnival Spirit Feb 25: Mar 10: Chalmers.) Arcadia Mar 6: Pacific Princess Mar 3: Marina Feb 26: Mar 28: Queen Mary 2 Mar 13: Pacific Jewel Mar 4, 14, 18, 28, Dawn Princess Feb 27: Mar Celebrity Solstice Mar 13, 19: 31: Apr 10, 19, 28: 7, 20: Bremen Mar 13: On Board Marina Plus a comprehensive Click onto the Notice Board at coverage of global www.cruisingnews.com passenger cruising for the latest Cruising News Updates

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