Holland America Bases Eight Ships in Caribbean For 2013-14

Holland America Line is basing eight ships in Fort Lauderdale and Tampa for its 2013-14 Caribbean season

 Half Moon Cay

All Fort Lauderdale itineraries will call at Half Moon Cay, the line’s private Bahamian island. 

From October through April, Eurodam, Maasdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Ryndam, Veendam, Westerdam and Zuiderdam will sail a total of 109 seven-, 10-, 11- and 14-day cruises that can be combined into voyages up to 25 days. The itineraries explore the Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean, as well as a partial transit of the Panama Canal.

• New to the region, Veendam will sail one seven-day Eastern Caribbean round-trip from Fort Lauderdale departing April 24 to Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Thomas and Half Moon Cay.
• Eurodam returns to the Caribbean on alternating round-trip Fort Lauderdale seven-day Eastern and Western itineraries. The Wastern Caribbean itinerary visits Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Thomas and Half Moon Cay, while the western route calls at Half Moon Cay, Grand Cayman, Key West and Falmouth or Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

• The Maasdam offers a range of seven-, 10-, 11- and 14-day round-trips from Fort Lauderdale; the 14-day route calls at St. Thomas, St. Bart’s, St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, Curaçao, Bonaire and Half Moon Cay.
• Also departing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Nieuw Amsterdam sails alternating Eastern and Western routes. The eastern route calls at Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Thomas and Half Moon Cay, while the western itinerary visits Cozumel, Half Moon Cay, Grand Cayman and Key West.
• Noordam offers seven-, 10- and 11-day round-trips from Fort Lauderdale cruises. The 11-day Southern Caribbean itinerary includes St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, Martinique, Dominica, St. Thomas and Half Moon Cay.
• The only ship sailing round-trip from Tampa, Ryndam offers seven-day Western Caribbean cruises and two 14-day Southern Caribbean itineraries. The 14-day itineraries call at Key West, San Juan, St. Thomas, St. John’s, St. Lucia, Aruba, Grand Cayman and Curaçao or Bonaire.
• Westerdam sails a repeating round-trip Fort Lauderdale seven-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary to Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Maarten and Half Moon Cay.
• Zuiderdam features 10- and 11-day Panama Canal itineraries round-trip from Fort Lauderdale. The 10-day route includes a partial canal transit and calls at Half Moon Cay; Aruba; Curaçao; Colon, Panama; and Puerto Limón, Costa Rica. The 11-day cruise features Half Moon Cay; Aruba; Curaçao; Cartagena, Colombia; a partial Panama Canal transit; Colon and Puerto Limón.

The voyages are available for booking. Cruise fares range from $499 per person, double occupancy, for a seven-day itinerary cruise to $2,799 for a 25-day journey.

Source: Theresa Norton Masek via Travel Pulse

Cruise Ships Head Back to Grand Turk Cruise Port

Carnival Cruise Corp. confirms cruise ships will begin docking at the Grand Turk cruise port on April 8 - the first time since mid-March 

The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) economy has lost millions of dollars in economic activity as a result of the recent outbreak of gastroenteritis at the Grand Turk cruise port, which is owned by the Carnival Corporation.

Almost three weeks have elapsed since cruise ships discontinued berthing at the facility for fear of passengers disembarking on the island contracting the virus. The outbreak also appears to be spreading to the rest of the island, as more residents are reportedly coming down with the sickness.

The health department and tourist board have issued press releases describing their efforts in attempting to isolate and contain the outbreak. One possible source of the outbreak is thought to be in the water supply; however, this theory has not been proven as public health authorities wait on test results.

Problems with the sewage system at the cruise port are another possible cause and sources on Grand Turk report that a recently commenced excavation of the sewage system has been covered by temporary posts and plastic cloth. Security guards are posted, keeping locals from coming close to the site.

What appears to have happened is that gray water effluent is being contaminated by the sewage system.

The latest estimate for completion of the repairs and sanitization is another seven to ten days. It is understood that Carnival executives will be arriving this week to meet with Premier Rufus Ewing and be interviewed on a Radio Turks and Caicos broadcast.

One concerned resident of Grand Turk said that the situation on that island is worsening as cruise ships were the only thing that kept the island advancing, noting that it would be a big setback for Grand Turk if the situation persists.

Carnival Corporation has been plagued with a number of unfortunate incidents over the past two years. In December 2011, the Costa Concordia capsized in the Mediterranean, while just a few months ago an engine failure resulted in one its cruise ships losing all power in the Gulf of Mexico.

Carnival has a number of ports of call throughout the Caribbean and is developing attractions in neighbouring Dominican Republic; however, the Grand Turk cruise centre has enjoyed a steady increase over the years since its opening in 2004.

The TCI government relies on Carnival’s head tax to help meet its budgetary obligations with over $3 million in annual receipts coming from arriving passengers. It is estimated that the economic impact for Grand Turk is some $250,000 per day in activity.

The cruise port has been hosting six to eight ship arrivals per week. The ships each carry between 2,500 and 3,500 passengers and it is believed that 90 percent of the passengers disembark the ship and visit the welcome centre. Approximately 20 percent of the passengers take taxis to visit other sites on the capital island.

Skift 

(c)2013 the Caribbean News Now (Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands). Distributed by MCT Information Services.

Caribbean Cruise Port Shopping

In the infographic survey below taken by Cruise Critic, liquor tops number one in the duty free items purchased by Caribbean cruisers. 

After more than a decade cruising, I opt for locally made items to purchase, and often pass up the liquor deals as we travel light these days. We normally book our own tours to avoid the crowd - and it's less cheaper. 

On-board money is spent on dining several nights at optional dining restaurants, Wi-Fi  access, and those colorful "drinks of the day" my hubby cannot pass up :) 

Carnival Victory Launches Year-Round Short Cruises from Miami

Carnival Cruise Lines’ Carnival Victory arrived at Port Miami the morning of Feb. 4 and kicked off its new year-round schedule of four- and five-day cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas. 

Four-Day “long weekend” cruises depart Thursdays and call at Key West and Cozumel. 

Five-Day cruises that depart Mondays visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, Half Moon Cay and Nassau. 

Another Five-Day itinerary departs Saturdays and visits Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios. 

The Victory replaces Carnival Destiny, which departed Miami the afternoon of Feb. 4 on an 18-day trans-Atlantic crossing that will end Feb. 22 in Venice, Italy, and the vessel will undergo a $155 million renovation. 

Carnival Destiny will emerge from the 49-day dry dock with a new name, Carnival Sunshine, and new restaurants, bars and entertainment.

By Theresa Norton Masek via TravelPulse

Travel Channel's Sweepstakes - Win $10,000 Caribbean Cruise Vacation

Travel Channel is giving you the chance to take to the seas in the Travel Channel - December 2012 Caribbean Cruise Travel Trivia Sweepstakes. Enter for your chance to win a week-long cruise or instant prizes.

The grand-prize winner will receive a Caribbean voyage for two on a full rigged tall ship including shore excursions, meals, and more. The total prize value is $10,000. In addition, daily instant winners will travel blankets and carry cases.

Entry into Travel Channel's December 2012 Caribbean Cruise Travel Trivia Sweepstakes - Open to US residents above the age of 21. 

Enter daily through December 31, 2012. Read more...

When To Book A Caribbean Cruise For Best Price

Cruise Market Watch has posted an info-graphic to guide cruisers on how far in advance you should book, and the season to set sail for the best deal on a Caribbean cruise.  

The graph provides a framework for planning, from which you can then narrow down your specific destinations, cruise duration, cabin type and ship segment. 

Check it out!

Girlfriend Caribbean Cruise To Jamaica And Grand Cayman

Five fabulous nights for the Girls to relax, reconnect and laugh on board the Celebrity Constellation sailing out of Miami to Grand Cayman and Jamaica. 

Sail out of Miami to the islands of Grand Cayman and Jamaica PLUS two days at sea to enjoy the sea, ship and sunshine with our sister friends!

On Grand Cayman – Fabulous shopping, gorgeous beaches and swimming with the Stingrays! For those who love the beach, the seven mile strand of powdery white sand and stunning waters will amaze you. For those who love to shop, Cayman has style and flair. And for those who love adventure, come with us and swim with the stingrays!

On Jamaica – Zip line through the jungle, climb Dunns River Falls, or spend the day on a stunning beach. This tropical paradise has culture, beauty and reggae music that will keep you moving to the beat!

Your days at sea – Lounge by the pool, relax at the Aqua Spa, Broadway shows, movies, shopping, casino, Wine tastings, golf, attend an art auction … the list is endless! Sing, dance, laugh, enjoy time with your girlfriends!

Block out January 26-31, 2013 for a GREAT GIRLFRIEND GETAWAY CRUISE to the CARIBBEAN!

Steal of the Week: Cruise Eastern Caribbean From $57 Per Night

Wow - this is an awesome deal for a 7 night Caribbean cruise - especially a "suite" for under $1K! 

THE DEAL: American Discount Cruises & Travel is offering a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise onboard Holland America’s Eurodam, sailing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale on December 8, 2012. 

Fares start from $399 per person for an inside cabin, $449 for an outside cabin, $599 for a balcony and $999 for a suite.

Get more details at Cruise Critic 
Steal of the Week: Cruise the Eastern Caribbean From $57 Per Night : The Lido Deck

MSC Baseball Themed Cruises

MSC Cruises is offering five Caribbean baseball themed cruises for the winter Caribbean sailing season. 

The MSC Poesia will sail out of Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean on seven night cruises headlined by famed baseball greats. 

The baseball themed cruise activities include player-hosted trivia games, question-and-answer sessions with players, passenger pitching contests and storytelling sessions. The Players will also host pitching, hitting, fielding and base-running clinics.

Sailing dates for 2013 Baseball Themed Cruises

February 9, 2013 - 7 night Eastern Caribbean cruise features Ken Griffey Sr., Jim Fregosi, Stan Bahnsen, Ed Herrmann and Larry Parrish.

February 23, 2013 - 7 night Eastern Caribbean cruises features Tommy Davis, Cookie Rojas, Stan Bahnsen, Clarence Jones and Juan Marichal.

March 9, 2013 - 7 night Eastern Caribbean cruise features Gorman Thomas, Gary Peters, Stan Bahnsen, Wallace Johnson and Rico Petrocelli.

April 6, 2013 - 7 night cruise to islands of Antigua, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas features Randy Hundley, Stan Bahnsen, Jack Billingham and Ellis Valentine.

Fares start at $549 per person, based on double occupancy, and must be booked by September 30, 2012.

Autograph sessions take place at the end of the cruises.

More info about Baseball Themed Cruises, along with other MSC Themed Cruises

New York's Ship - Norwegian Breakaway

"Norwegian Breakaway is New York's ship, and this colorful artwork by Peter Max will make the ship an instant icon," Norwegian CEO Kevin Sheehan says in a statement.

Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has released the first image of Peter Max hull art on its next ship, the Norwegian Breakaway, which debuts in April 2013.

Norwegian Breakaway will be the largest ship to be based year-round in New York. The New York themed ship will carry 4,000-passengers, and will sail year-round out of  New York to Bermuda and the Bahamas.

What Does It Mean When Your Cruise Ship Is Sick?

As we head into the end of summer and beginning of Fall, we will hear more about the norovirus because cruise ships will start their Caribbean cruises and the cold and flu season kicks off again. 

This means more stories about cruise passengers getting ill while at sea. The word "norovirus" does sound pretty bad. I even thought there was something dangerous about sailing on cruise ships after I heard about case after case.

That was until I talked to doctors at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta and found out that norovirus is nothing more than the stomach flu - and it isn't a disease that people only get on cruise ships.

According to the braniacs at the CDC, "the common cold is the only illness more common, and
the CDC estimates that there are more than 20 million cases of norovirus annually."

Read full article - What Does It Mean When Your Cruise Ship Is Sick?

NCL's New Stingray Encounter, Snorkel Trail at Private Island

Norwegian Cruise Line has opened a new stingray encounter and a snorkel trail as part of its $30 million enhancement project on its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas. In addition, a new theme bar sponsored by Patrón Spirits is expected to open in September.

Located inside Bertram’s Cove, on the right hand side of the main beach, the Stingray Encounter lets guests interact with 18 specially trained stingrays in an enclosed area.

Each stingray has a name and its own personality, and guests can feed, watch and hold them, and even take photos.

Use of a mask, snorkel and snorkel vest is included so guests can peer at the rays below the water’s surface. The hour-long excursion includes 45 minutes of interaction with the rays and costs $29 per adult and $19 per child.

The new snorkel trail, located near the Stingray Encounter in Bertram’s Cove, portrays the tale of a shipwreck. As the legend goes, “The Fancy,” sailing from Nassau, Bahamas, in 1696, encountered a mythical creature named Lusca that was half-shark, half-octopus. It is believed the creature was responsible for the ship disappearing near the Berry Islands, the location of Great Stirrup Cay. Guests can look for clues underwater that lead to the treasure that the Fancy was carrying, highlighted by 17 underwater scenes that depict the shipwreck and Lusca’s legend, including cannons, a sunken piano, treasure chests, swords and more.

Developed in conjunction with IDEA Inc., an Orlando-based company that develops theme park experiences, the “Fate of the Fancy Snorkel Adventure” features some authentic artifacts that are more than 300 years old. In addition, the artifacts are eco-friendly and are expected to stimulate additional marine life.

Guests can explore the snorkel trail by renting snorkel equipment for $29 per adult or $15 per child for the day. Or, they can purchase both the “Fate of the Fancy Snorkel Adventure” and the stingray encounter at a discounted price of $49 per adult, a $9 savings, and $29 per child, a $5 savings.

Norwegian has also partnered with the spirits brand, Patrón, on a new bar called Lighthouse Beach Bar presented by Patrón. It will feature Patrón products, including its popular tequila, along with a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The bar will be outfitted with beach-inspired décor, including bar stools, umbrellas and menu boards, as well as two large flat-screen TVs that will show entertainment from music videos to sporting events. The new bar is set to open in September.

Earlier this year, Norwegian opened private cabanas on Great Stirrup Cay. Located to the west of the island’s main beach, the cabanas are available for $249 per day for up to six guests. Each cabana is furnished with lounge chairs, tables, a cooler, beach towels and a shower. Cabana rental also includes a $50 food and beverage credit, up to six all-day passes to the Hippo Waterslide and one large float to use.

Guests who reserve one of the 10 cabanas will get priority tender service to the island and, upon arrival, will receive six complimentary bottles of water and a fruit basket. The cabanas are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be pre-booked as a shore excursion.

The 250-acre Great Stirrup Cay was the first private island operated by a cruise line. Additional activities on the island include a Waverunner tour, a large Hippo Waterslide, an eco-boat tour, kayaking, parasailing, shopping at the straw market and more.

Norwegian Sky makes year-round stops at Great Stirrup Cay on three- and four-day cruises from Miami. Norwegian Gem visits during seven-day “Bahamas & Florida” itinerary from New York.

Beginning in October, Norwegian Jewel will also stop at Great Stirrup Cay on seven-day “Bahamas & Florida” cruises from New York.

Norwegian Pearl will also visit the private island this winter on its seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary from Miami.

Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian’s new ship launching next spring, will visit Great Stirrup Cay on seven-day cruises from New York to the Bahamas and Florida beginning in mid-October 2013.

By Theresa Norton Masek - TravelPulse

Cruise Tip of the Day and Contest from Condé Nast Traveler

Share a Cruise Tip - You Could Win a $10,000 Caribbean Cruise

What was the best day you ever spent in a cruise port? Did you watch glass-blowing in Venice? Spy on endangered tortoises in the Galapagos? 

Sumbit your cruise tip to Condé Nast Traveler by September 7, and you could win a $10,000 Caribbean cruise for two on luxury liner Seabourn. Travel editors and experts will select the person with the smartest tip to win the grand prize. 

Cruise Contest Tip of the Day: Basket Shopping in Dominica - Condé Nast Traveler

Kid Rock's Chillin' the Most Cruise 2013

Kid Rock is bringing you the 4th Annual Chillin' the Most Cruise setting sail via the Norwegian Pearl, March 6th-10th, 2013.

Kid Rock will be playing two shows and spending a much needed vacation alongside his favorite fans.







CRUISE ITINERARY - (Subject to change)

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 - Pre-Party on Ship (additional purchase; departs 9PM ET) http://www.kidrockcruise.com/event/preparty/

Wednesday, March 6 - Depart Miami, FL (approx 4:00 PM ET)

Thursday, March 7 - Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Friday, March 8 - Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday, March 9 - Day At Sea

Sunday, March 10 - Arrive Miami, FL (approx 8:00 AM ET)

In addition to admission to all cruise concerts, the price of your room also includes:

• All meals (there's gourmet fare in the formal dining rooms, casual indoor and outdoor grills open for meals throughout the day and 24-hour room service).
• Non-carbonated beverages (i.e. tea, juices, coffee).
• Free entrance to hot spots like the ship's disco and casino.
• Use of the ship's beautiful pools and giant waterslide (all with plenty of deck space to enjoy a cocktail and some great music).
• Use of the Norwegian Pearl's health and fitness center.
• Norwegian Splash Academy and Entourage facilities and activities if you're bringing children.
• Taxes, port charges and ticketing are added at check-out and pre-paid by you ($200.00 per person).

More info at http://www.kidrockcruise.com/

Norwegian Cruise Line's Second Annual #SeaTweetup

The second annual #SeaTweetup cruise is will sail on October 12- 15, 2012.

The Norwegian Sky will depart from Miami and set sail for a weekend getaway to the Bahamas visiting Nassau, and NCL's private island Great Stirrup Cay.

The interactive cruise was coordinated by members of the South Florida social media community.

Cruisers will take part in special networking events throughout the cruise including  social media marketing panels and discussions, giveaways and cocktail parties.

Also social media experts will share their experiences with followers. Participants will have access to the ship’s Internet Café and Wi-Fi network, as well as invitations to in-port events to post, tweet, and blog throughout the weekend to the twitter hashtag #SeaTweetup.

Avid Cruiser Voyages: Small-ship Caribbean

Since the dawn of the industry, the Caribbean has remained one of cruising’s most quintessential destinations. 

Popular with travellers in both winter and summer, there’s no shortage of ships – or itineraries – in this relatively small geographic area.

While cruise lines around the world frequently send their biggest, newest and best ships for a season of sailing to the Caribbean’s most popular ports, the experience aboard a smaller ship, presents a world of difference. 

For starters, many smaller vessels are ultra-luxury ships, expedition vessels, or yachts that recall the glory days of sail, but in a modern way. Not only do they ensure a top-notch onboard experience, but their relatively small size also allows them to call on ports that are simply unavailable to the big megaships.

Read full article at Travel Research

Windstar Cruises 2013 Voyage Brochure

Luxury Windstar Cruises has just published its 120-page Voyage Collection Brochure featuring 2013 sailing schedules.

Featured are cruises to the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Italy, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Greek Isles, and trans-Atlantic crossings.

Exciting new itineraries will debut in 2013 exploring origins of world religions with Footsteps of Faith, and Gaelic Explorers which will take cruisers through the hills, highlands, castles and pubs of Ireland and Scotland.

The 2013 brochure also features the floor-plans for the recently renovated Wind Star and the soon-to-be renovated Wind Surf and Wind Spirit.

Check this out! For a limited time, enjoy 2-for-1 fares on all 2013 voyages when you book by September 1, 2012. Visit the site for more info NEW in 2013 from Windstar

Holland America 2013 Early Advantage Savings

Holland America Line announces free upgrades and Early Advantage savings on a selection of 2013 cruises/cruise-tours. 

Save up to 50% by combining two cruise itineraries on select Collectors Voyages in Europe. On some sailings, third and fourth cruise guests in the same cabin can qualify for free or reduced cruise fares.

Early Advantage savings on a 14-day Collectors Voyage is priced from $1,799 per person, double occupancy, for an inside stateroom - includes a free upgrade to an ocean-view while staterooms are available.

A family of four can take advantage of free or reduced third and fourth guests in the Caribbean, with fares starting at $699 for the first two guests, and the third and fourth sailing free. Guests who book an ocean-view category for $999 qualify for a complimentary verandah upgrade.

A 14-day Australia/New Zealand cruise starts at $1,699 for an inside stateroom and $1,999 for an ocean-view stateroom for the first and second guests, with reduced fares for the third and fourth guests starting at $1,049. While staterooms are available guests who book an ocean-view statement qualify for a verandah category.

Seven-day Alaska Inside Passage cruises from Seattle or Vancouver start at $699 for inside staterooms or $999 for verandahs, with free upgrades available. Alaska cruise tours are also available from 10 to 20 days, and prices start at $999 for inside staterooms and ocean-view staterooms.

Visit Holland America's site for more info on Early Advantage 

Cruise and Help the Humane Society

How about taking a seven-day exotic Western Caribbean winter cruise leaving from Tampa Feb. 3-10, 2013?

Not only do you enjoy a vacation in the tropics, but the Humane Society of Polk County benefits from the fund-raising at the same time.

Ports of call include Cozumel, Belize, Roatan and Grand Cayman. Rates include cruise, government fees, taxes, gratuities, roundtrip motor coach and $35 per person donation to the humane society.

Every $35 donation will be matched by Travel and Cruise World, the booking agent. A minimum $100 deposit is due with the reservation.

For rates, to book and details, call Travel and Cruise World at 863-295-9017 or 863-295-9013, or email info@travelandcruiseworld.com

Windjammer Sailing Adventures First Voyage July 22

Windjammer Sailing Adventures has announced that its first voyage will depart July 22, departing round-trip from Grenada.

The Mandalay, which formerly operated for now-defunct Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, will sail weekly, departing Sunday and returning Saturday, according to the company website.

The cruises will visit “a selection of islands in the Grenadines,” including Grenada, Carriacou, Union Island, Mayreau, Tobago Cays, Bequia, St. Vincent and possibly others.

“Remember, ports visited are subject to change ... we go where the captain and the winds take us!” the company website says.

Windjammer Sailing Adventures was started by Charles J. Kropke in the freewheeling spirit of Windjammer Barefoot, which was started in 1947 by the legendary Capt. Mike Burke. That company had legions of devoted fans but ultimately shut down in 2007.

Cruise fares include a cabin/bunk, three meals a day, onboard entertainment, early morning pastries and Bloody Marys, early evening snacks, Rum Swizzles, wine with dinner and 24-hour coffee and tea. Tips are optional with about $75 per person per week is suggested.

Standard cabins below deck with bunk beds are priced at $1,599 per person, based on double occupancy. Fares are $1,699 for Commodore Cabins, larger cabins below deck with bunk beds; $1,799 for Admiral Suites on main deck with double lower bunk and upper Pullman; and $1,899 for a Kings Cabin, a double sized cabin with shower separate from the bathroom.

There is a $400 discount on the second week of back-to-back sail. Port charges are $99 are in addition to the cruise fare. Single shares are available at the per-person rate and the company will pair up with another single of the same sex. Single occupancy is 175 percent of the per-person rate. Third passenger prices are $1,199 for Commodore Cabin and $1,299 for Admiral Cabin.

For reservations, call 888-972-7245, ext. 101, or visit http://sailwindjammer.com/Home_Page.html

Source: Theresa Norton Masek - TravelPulse