Princess Cruises Announces That It Has Formed An Exciting New Partnership With The Good Food & Wine Show.

In celebration of the partnership, Princess Cruises’ luxury cruise liner, Sea Princess, welcomed aboard three renowned Chefs in Manu Feildel, Alastair Mcleod and Colin Fassnidge to experience and sample some of the award-winning culinary offerings available onboard.

Taking place in Melbourne on 1 – 3 June, Sydney on 22 – 24 June, Perth on 24 – 26 August and Brisbane 26 – 28 October, Good Food & Wine Show will see celebrated chefs take the stage in the Princess Cruises Theatre, presented by ILVE. In the Princess Cruises Theatre the chefs will be partnered with someone they love to cook with, showcasing their joint passion for food and world-class culinary skills to thousands of attendees around Australia.

“The Princess Cruises Theatre, presented by ILVE, is an amazing addition to the Good Food & Wine Show. We’re thrilled to partner with such a prestigious brand and look forward to seeing the theatre come to life throughout each show”, said Good Food & Wine Show, Event Director, Claire Back.

We’re delighted to have partnered with the Good Food & Wine Show this year and officially sponsor the Princess Cruises Theatre. This partnership will appeal to Princess Guests around Australia and most certainly to those who love good food!

We take tremendous pride in preparing and serving our guests freshly made quality dishes every day across our fleet. It was a pleasure to welcome acclaimed and innovative chefs Manu Feildel, Alastair Mcleod and Colin Fassnidge onboard Sea Princess in Sydney and introduce them to Princess Cruises’ expansive and enticing food offerings onboard”, said Director of Sales and Marketing Princess Cruises, Nick Ferguson.

For more information on Princess Cruises, see a licensed travel agent; call 13 24 88 or visit www.princess.com

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises And www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

P&O Cruises Australia Commemorates Anzac Day On Board Their Ships With Humility And Grace.

ANZAC day 2018 saw all guests and staff and crew on-board all five ships in the P&O Cruises Australia fleet pay their respects to the past, present men and women who have served or are currently serving our nation in the Australian Defence Force.

It’s been more than 100 years since that horrific landing on the shores at Gallipoli, and the legacy of ANZAC day needs to be preserved now and into the future.

It’s where it remains a challenge for us all to make sure that the ‘Spirit’ of the ANZAC is now passed onto our children and their children in generations to come to honour the fallen and those whom are still serving and the great sacrifice they are making in serving this wonderful country of ours.

P&O Cruises Australia have now been conducting Dawn services across their five ship fleet for many years now, The Dawn Services will begin a day devoted to the Anzac legacy with special Australian and New Zealand displays with an Anzac theme, Anzac biscuits available on board throughout the day and two-up in a salute to the larrikin spirit of the original Diggers.

“Anzac Day is always a very special day on our P&O ships and our Australian and New Zealand guests look forward to participating in the poignant Dawn Services remembering the service and sacrifice of so many who gave their lives in the defence of freedom,” said P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell.

“It is always a particular honour to invite the veterans and currently serving members of the armed forces among our guests to play a central role during the on board commemoration of Anzac Day.

“The day makes the transition to a celebration of all things Australian and New Zealand that in its own way salutes those who have served to protect the freedom we enjoy.”

In an historic note, around two thirds of the then P&O fleet was called to war service during World War One with the loss of 85 ships belonging to P&O and its subsidiary companies.

During World War Two, the P&O group lost 156 ships including some of its then iconic line ships, Viceroy of India, Cathay, Oronsay and Orcades.

In the Falklands War, Canberra had a pivotal role carrying the Parachute Regiment and the Royal Marines on the 17,000km voyage to the Falklands before making a triumphant return to Southampton.

Information supplied by: www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising! And P&O Cruises Australia.

Photos supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

What Really Happened Onboard P&O Cruises Australia's Pacific Dawn, Separating Fact From Fiction!

On Thursday the 12th of April 2018 at approximately 16.30pm an unfortunate incident happened on board P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Dawn while on her way back to Brisbane approximately 150 nautical miles west of New Caledonia, during a week-long cruise in the Pacific.

There was a man overboard situation that happened, and for many who are seasoned cruisers such as myself who have been on both Pacific Dawn and Pacific Jewel on numerous occasions and as they are sister ships meaning that they are [identical on the outside] we were quite perplexed to understand the reason why this incident had occurred.

The ship railings on both Pacific Dawn and Pacific Jewel meet the minimum requirements set out in Maritime law that is enforced by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority [ AMSA].

The following should be taken into consideration is:

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority known as [ AMSA] who plays apart in regulating the Maritime industry will make sure that any cruise ship that is based, homeported or visits Australian ports or ports that are in the reach of Australia’s maritime zone comply with all Maritime requirements that it deems necessary to operate safely at sea.

April 12th

Natasha Schofield has been identified as the woman who went overboard.

P&O Cruises Australia have issued the following statements below.

“P&O Cruises confirmed that Pacific Dawn turned around after an adult female guest was seen to go over the side of the ship while it was at sea approximately 150 nautical miles from New Caledonia. A crew member notified the bridge straight away and the ‘man overboard’ incident response was activated immediately.

In line with this response, Pacific Dawn turned around to follow the course it was on at the time of the incident. Pacific Dawn is currently on a seven night cruise from Brisbane to the South Pacific with scheduled calls to Noumea, Lifou and Port Vila completed.

The ship departed from Brisbane last Saturday for the week long cruise. Relevant maritime search and rescue authorities were notified. Our thoughts and prayers are with the guest and her family at this time.”

Channel 10 footage of a passenger photographing crew on board Pacific Dawn searching for missing lady

April 13^th

An announcement was made by Pacific Dawn's Captain this morning. My deepest condolences to the family of the woman.

“Good morning everyone this is the captain speaking from the bridge.

I have an update for our search and rescue mission over night for one of our guests who fell over the side yesterday afternoon.

It is with a very heavy heart that I need to let you know that we have been unable to locate our guest

We are still in the area of the incident, and the weather conditions with the swell three to four metres high, as you can see outside - the strong wind and choppy seas - made our search extremely challenging.

And sadly despite our continued search through the night we have been unable to find her.

As a result we have now made the extremely difficult decision to continue our journey towards Brisbane.

We have made this decision after seeking advice from the marine investigative authorities of New Caledonia and Australia.

Supplied pictures from aboard P & O Pacific Dawn after a passenger fell overboard

April 13^th

Updated statement from P&O Cruises Australia

"With the deepest sadness, P&O Cruises has confirmed the suspension of Pacific Dawn’s search for the female guest who was seen to go overboard from the ship late yesterday afternoon approximately 150 nautical miles from New Caledonia.

The difficult decision to suspend the search was made only after expert advice that survival after this length of time in difficult sea conditions and after a full night at sea was not considered possible.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the guest’s family at this distressing time. Pacific Dawn had searched throughout the night and into the morning after first light without success. The search, which began immediately after a crew member reported a guest had been seen to go over the side of the ship, was suspended in consultation with maritime rescue authorities.

Pacific Dawn has now resumed her course for Brisbane where preparations are being made for a late arrival on completion of the current seven night crew to the South Pacific. Guests currently onboard Pacific Dawn have been advised of a likely late arrival and guests due to embark on the ship’s next cruise will be updated on boarding arrangements.

P&O Cruises has thanked the media for their sensitivity in reporting the incident."

April 15^th

“Pacific Dawn returned to Brisbane this morning and, prior to arrival at the Portside Cruise Terminal, the Captain thanked disembarking guests for their sensitivity and support for the family who suffered such a devastating loss during the cruise.

The family has been supported on board by senior crew members since the incident and Care-trained staff met the ship on arrival this morning. We have done everything possible to respect and protect the privacy of the family. Counselling by a professional Counsellor who was also on hand today has been offered to guests and crew wanting access to this support.

P&O Cruises is assisting Queensland Police in their inquiries into the incident as the lead authority acting on behalf of the State Coroner. As anticipated, police went on board Pacific Dawn on arrival this morning to begin their inquiries. Allowing the police to determine what happened in this tragic incident is the appropriate course.

We remain concerned that much of the speculation and versions of events given in recent days are not supported by the facts. The police inquiries on behalf of the Coroner will help put the speculation to rest.

With Pacific Dawn’s arrival, we will be able to give police CCTV footage providing an unobstructed view of what happened and portraying an obviously devoted and loving couple. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and hope that they will find comfort in their grief.”

Passengers greet family and friends after disembarking from the Pacific Dawnin Brisbane on Sunday morning. Picture: AAP / John Gass.

The facts of the matter are:

1. There was no freak wave that hit the ship so violently that the woman now identified as Natasha Schofeild accidently fell overboard.

2. The reporting by alleged passengers on board saying that Natasha was sea sick and vomiting over the side of the ship was ill founded.

3. The comments made by some Facebook users in different cruise groups and blogs saying that the husband should be investigated is absolutely appalling and disrespectful to the family involved. For legal reasons I am unable to say which groups or blogs these came from.

4. To those of you from differnt cruise groups and blogs on facebook that speculated and commented on Mrs Schofeild's mental condition and frame of mind, how dare you!  Your comments leave alot to be desired by doing this without knowing the full facts! and her state of mind. it's so disrespectful to Mrs Schofeild and her family and friends, some of the comments have been so disgraceful and you should be ashamed of yourselves. I only wish i could name those who have put up such comments.

4. The speculation that was made by some of the Facebook cruise groups and blogs leaves a lot to be desired. Try gathering the facts first before speculating because everybody is watching what you say, because once you send it you can’t take it back. For legal reasons i am unable to say which groups or blogs these came from.

5. The disrespectful media outlets who tried to interview passengers who were disembarking Pacific Dawn after a harrowing 48 hours that they had just endured due to the incident on board. You should be ashamed of yourselves for calling yourself a media outlet.

6. The fact of the matter and what really happened was that “[Mrs Schofield] did take intentional actions and deliberately propell herself overboard the ship,” said Inspector Graham of Queensland police.

The entire incident was captured on security cameras. Inspector Graham had also told reporters he had viewed the footage.

“What I saw was a couple of loving people on the top deck of a cruise ship,” he said.

“I saw them leaning on the rails and I saw the intentional actions of the missing person take two steps back and then propel herself over the railing.

“Her husband tried in vain to grab her when she went over grabbing onto her leg she was too far gone and subsequently she fell.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au has also learnt that Natasha Schofield had many life changing hypnotherapy session’s weeks before boarding Pacific Dawn.

Please read the following article supplied by: https://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/mum-who-jumped-from-cruise-ship-was-hypnotised-in-recent-weeks/#hkuDSHJVYz2uTkAf.97

*Readers who are in need of support and information can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia and www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

What Happens When You Get A ‘TOP 10 CHEF IN THE WORLD’ Who Is A ‘MASTER CHEF OF FRANCE’ That SETS COURSE FOR AUSTRALIA ??

You Get The Chefs OF MAJESTIC PRINCESS GAINING ACCOLADES AHEAD OF Their AUSTRALIAN ARRIVAL!

Princess Cruises’ Director of Guest Culinary Experience, Chef Pierre-Marie Leprince, has been honoured with the distinction of Master Chef of France by the prestigious culinary organisation, the Association of the Master Chefs of France (L ’Association des Maîtres Cuisiniers de France).

Also newly named to the association is three-Michelin-starred Chef Emmanuel Renaut, the culinary mastermind behind Majestic Princess’ La-Mer restaurant.

Recently awarded Top 10 Best Chef in the World for the third running by French magazine La Chef, as voted by two and three-starred Michelin chefs from around the world, Renaut developed specialty French restaurant La Mer in partnership with Leprince exclusively for Princess’ newest ship, Majestic Princess.

“The prestige and expertise of Chef Leprince and Chef Renaut takes the dining experience at sea to a whole new level.” said Stuart Allison, Senior Vice President Princess Cruises Asia Pacific.

 “For a $39 cover charge and without the month-long wait that synonymous with this calibre of cuisine, Australian and New Zealand guests will be among the first to experience La Mer when Majestic Princess arrives for her maiden Australian season in September this year.”

 The Biggest, newest and most luxurious ship in the Princess fleet, Majestic Princess will be the largest ever Princess ship to homeport in Australian waters when she arrives in Sydney on Saturday, 15 September 2018.

During her inaugural Australian season, Majestic will sail on 16 cruises to destinations including Fiji, New Zealand and Tasmania as well as two Asia voyages between Shanghai and Sydney, and Sydney and Hong Kong.

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises And www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Photos supplied by: Princess Cruises.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au Provides A Unique Insight Into The Australian Cruising Industry.

Are you aware that Australia has its very own website dedicated to the Australian cruising industry, that’s right www.australiancruisingnews.com.au is the only dedicated website that focuses on the cruise ships that are based and homeported in Australian waters, every Australian cruising season?

How it all started, it started with my own personal cruising experiences, as I have done over 50 cruises worldwide and been on variety of different ships to many stunning destinations.

Then came the time for surfing the web about cruising and seeing if there was a website that just focuses on the cruise ships that are based and homeported in Australian waters, every Australian cruising season.

To my astonishment there was not a website out there offering this as a service to the Australian cruising community hence the website name www.australiancruisingnews.com.au was born!

Our point of difference is to provide you with fresh local content and we are constantly updating our website to bring you the latest information from the cruise lines direct.

We offer the latest in cruising news, cruise line and cruise ship information, unbiased cruise ship reviews when we get invited on board, as we do not work for any of the cruise lines or work on any of the cruise ships that we do reviews on.

We also offer helpful hints and tips whether your a first time cruiser or someone that is experienced, coming soon we will also have Australian destination information so that you will be able to read up on your favorite ports before you leave for your cruise, so you will have some idea of what to expect.

Our views are solely our own and we are not paid in anyway shape or form.

Australian Cruising News.com.au Achievements:

1. We are Australia’s only dedicated cruising website to promoting the cruise ships that are based and homeported in Australian waters, every Australian cruising season.

2. Invited on board Carnival Spirits Inaugural sailing out of Sydney, Australia on the 19^th of October 2012 to promote the world’s number one social media app for cruising www.shipmateapp.com

3. Interviewed David Jones the Cooperate communications manager of Carnival Australia in regards to the 5 Sydney based ships in a salute the Royal Australian Navy : https://youtu.be/mlKQrEy5vp8

4. Interviewed Ann Sherry in regards to the P&OEdge and John Sharpe the creator of the P&OEdge : https://youtu.be/GPy4qHD

5. Interviewed Meg Koffel, Princess Cruises Public Relations Manager in relation to what makes Princess cruises stand out from the rest. : https://youtu.be/SY7YW-eWBKQ This video was put onto the www.WLCL.com.au website as a training tool for agents.

6. We were involved as the official photographer for the Inaugural Jelly Bean Cruise on board Celebrity Solstice on the 23rd of October 2014 supporting the Danii Meads-Barlow Foundation.

7.  Awarded to be in the TOP 50 cruise websites and blogs worldwide by https://blog.feedspot.com/cruise_blogs/

Not only does www.australiancruisingnews.com.au have a successful website following of over 158,000 followers and over 10,000 readers a week we also have our social media outlets below:

1. http://www.instagram.com/australiancruisingnews.com.au

2. http://www.twitter.com/AusCruisingNews

http://www.facebook.com/AustralianCruisingNews.com.au on average 40,000 readers per week alone through its face book site. We have a very loyal group of followers to whom we would like to acknowledge each and every one of them!

Once again we offer a very unique insight to the Australian Cruising Industry, as we are focused on the ships that are based and home ported in Australian waters, every Australian season, this is OUR point of difference!

Information supplied by: www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Brisbane's New Cruise Ship Terminal To Be Ready By Late 2019 !

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says Queensland is set to welcome its first dedicated mega-cruise ship terminal with construction set to commence on the Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd’s (PBPL) $158 million Brisbane International Cruise Terminal at Luggage Point on the north side of the Brisbane River.

The Premier said the Cruise Terminal would support 245 jobs each year through construction and was the second Market-Led Proposal to advance to the delivery phase, following in the footsteps of the $512 million Logan Motorway Enhancement Project currently under construction.

“Cruising is one of tourism’s great growth stories, for both international and domestic markets,” the Premier said.

“A dedicated, purpose-built cruise ship terminal will boost our international reputation as a global tourism destination of choice.

“It will serve as a catalyst to supercharge growth in our tourism sector and related industries and generate jobs now and into the future.”

Site preparation works will start in November, with construction of the wharf to begin mid-next year, and construction of the terminal to begin in around 12 months.

The terminal building itself will be around 9,300 square metres set over two levels and connected to a 200m long wharf, with two air bridges facilitating the movement of passengers on and off the ships.

There will also be public open spaces, parking for cars and buses plus extensive landscaping across the site.

Treasurer Curtis Pitt welcomed the progression of the Port of Brisbane’s cruise terminal Market Led Proposal and said it’s a great example of private sector innovation in action to deliver much needed cruise shipping infrastructure.

It’s very encouraging to see modelling by the Port of Brisbane which indicates the terminal could inject up to $1.3 billion in net expenditure into the Brisbane economy over the next two decades.

“The new cruise terminal is also a jobs generator and is set to support an average of 245 jobs a year over its two-year construction period and will deliver many more jobs through increased economic activity,” Mr Pitt said.

“Once the terminal is operational it is expected the additional cruise ships stopping in Brisbane could continue their journey up the coast to destinations like Cairns and give visitors the opportunity to visit other iconic destinations such as the Great Barrier Reef.    

“The economic investment will bring broader benefits to the state economy through increased opportunities for tourism operators and other sectors like agriculture and our services industry."

“To date, eight proposals have been approved or have moved to Stage 2, the preparation of detailed proposals stage and the MLPs approved or in the detailed assessment stage are worth just more than $1 billion and are estimated to generate around 1,800 jobs.”

Tourism Minister Kate Jones said an international cruise terminal would serve as an important piece of transport infrastructure not just for South East Queensland but for the whole state.

“It will bring an increased number of cruise ships and more tourists to the state,” Ms Jones said.

“It will also safeguard the existing 1,250 jobs related to the cruise industry in Brisbane and add 49 operational jobs on average each year over the next 20 years as the industry grows.

PBPL CEO, Roy Cummins said should the project receive ACCC approval, the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal would prove to be a defining piece of the State’s tourism infrastructure network.

“This new cruise terminal will secure the future of cruise tourism in South-east Queensland and help bring the world’s biggest cruise ships to Brisbane,” Mr Cummins said.

“We have worked with the State Government, through its Market-led Proposal process, and other partners including Brisbane City Council and the cruise operators, to make this happen, and we thank all parties for their support and their commitment to our project.

“Port of Brisbane is investing $158 million to deliver a world-class facility for our world-class city.

“Our focus has been to develop a proposal that supports the cruise industry and delivers a great passenger experience, and we are now going to get on with the hard work of building it.

“It means jobs during construction and jobs for the broader tourism sector for decades to come.

“Port of Brisbane is committed to delivering the best possible economic and tourism outcomes for the cruise industry and Queensland.

“It is an exciting opportunity and we look forward to working with all project partners as we now move into this next phase.”

Information supplied by: Brisbane Ports.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

They're  Back ! Royal Caribbean International Arrives Back In Australia For It's 10th Season In Australia.

Tomorrow October 08th 2017 Royal Caribbean International arrives back in Australia for the 2017/18 Australian cruising season while also celebrating their 10^th year in Australia, with Radiance Of The Seas a much loved ship with Australians.

“We’re back – Australia’s beloved Radiance of the Seas pulls into port this weekend, marking the start of an epic 10th birthday season ahead for Royal Caribbean,” said Adam Armstrong, managing director for RCL Cruises in Australia and New Zealand.

Radiance is just one of six of RCL Cruise’s exceptional Australia-based ships offering an incredible selection of 97 cruise holidays throughout Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and Asia this summer, and delivering an injection of AUD$198 million to the Australian economy in passenger spend alone.

Joining Radiance of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s ground-breaking Ovation of the Seas, returning for her second and longest #SuperCruising season yet. The South Pacific sisters Voyager and Explorer Of The Seas return while also know for many of their family orientated features.

On the Celebrity Cruises side of things we have the highest rated ship in Australia, Celebrity Solstice offering Australians a sophisticated way of cruising!

Back for her sixth season in Australia, when she arrives in Sydney on 20 October 2017 for her first sampler cruise in three seasons. Celebrity Cruises will also offer guests even more opportunity to explore destinations at night, with overnight calls to Cairns, Sydney and Melbourne.

Then we have from boutique Azamara Club Cruises both Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey both offering Immersive destination cruising with longer stays in ports and stunning Azamazing evenings!

Azamara Club Cruises returns for its third and biggest season down under yet, when Azamara Journey arrives via Australia’s west coast in January, making maiden calls to Adelaide and Perth, as well as a number of regional destinations. Plus Azamara Journey will end her 2017/18 season with the line’s inaugural World Journey, a 102-night extravaganza from Sydney to London, calling at 60 ports in 29 countries along the way.

Please see below the standout dates in the Royal Caribbean Internationals 10^th season in Australia.

Sun 8 Oct 2017 Radiance of the Seas: Arrival into Sydney – official start of the Australian international cruising season and marks RCI’s 10th season down under

Fri 20 Oct 2017 Celebrity Solstice: Arrival into Sydney to kick off her sixth season. She commences with a two night sampler cruise

Sat 28 Oct 2017 Voyager of the Seas: Arrival into Sydney and commences her 14-night Australia and New Zealand Cruise

Sun 29 Oct 2017 Explorer of the Seas: Arrival into Sydney and commences her 14-night Australia and New Zealand Cruise

November Celebrity Solstice: Celebrates her 8th birthday

Thurs 7 Dec 2017 Ovation of the Seas: Arrival into Sydney and commences her 10-night New Zealand Cruise

Sun 21 Jan 2018 Azamara Journey arrives into Sydney, for Azamara’s third Australian season

Wed 7 Mar 2018 Azamara Journey departs Australia for an 18 night Australia and Asia cruise, which kicks off her epic 102-night World Voyage from Sydney to London

Mon 26 Mar 2018 Ovation of the Seas wraps up her Australian season, departing Sydney on a 14 night Asia Repositioning cruise

Mon 16 Apr 2018 Voyager of the Seas: ends 2017-18 Australian season, departing Sydney on a 14 night Asia Repositioning cruise

Wed 11 Apr 2018 Celebrity Solstice: Ends her season, sailing from Sydney to New Zealand, Tahiti and Hawaii on an 18-night cruise

Tues 17 April 2018

Radiance of the Seas: End of season, departing Sydney on a 17-night cruise to Hawaii

Sun 22 Apr 2018

Explorer of the Seas: ends 2017-18 Australian season, departing to Sydney to commence a 22-night cruise to Seattle via Hawaii.

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

Photos credit: Brian Gaskin Of www.australiancruisingnews.com.au

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Want To See A Show That Has It All?? Well Now You Can With Love Riot Exclusive To Pacific Explorer !

The Explosive New Show on P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer Internationally acclaimed Australian director Scott Maidment, the creative mastermind behind Madonna’s Rebel Heart Tour and the sell-out Sydney Opera House circus spectacle Blanc de Blanc,has launched his latest production on-board P&O Cruises Pacific Explorer.

The new Love Riot show is an explosive adventure featuring world-class dance, comedy, circus andacrobatics with choreography by LA’s Kevin Maher and set and costume design by James Browne.

The 90-minute performance typically found in a spiegeltent rather than a cruise ship features an impressive world-class line up of elite artists and contortionists that dangle from silk sheets and Trapezes, unicycle through the audience and perform awe-inspiring acts.

Love Riot is exclusive to Pacific Explorer’s glamorous new cabaret entertainment venue Black Circus, where guests receive a cocktail and souvenir glass on arrival. The VIP Love Riot package includes a Five-course degustation dinner.

Brisbane-born Scott Maidment, who founded Strut & Fret Production House, said he wanted tocombine the best international talent into one great spectacle, Love Riot.

“I’ve directed shows in Budapest, London, Bogota and Singapore but never before for a cruise ship. My latest venture was about giving the P&O audience an experience they wouldn’t expect and remember long after their holiday.

“The formula for Love Riot takes the best internationally recognised artists from the US, Canada,Europe and Australia and puts a modern spin on their skills.

“Love Riot is not a passive experience - we want the audience to be involved. It’s about the talentbeing present and engaging with passengers every night and that’s the secret to the show,” MrMaidment said.

P&O Cruises’ Director of Entertainment Brett Annable said the latest production aimed to shake up the traditional cruise entertainment offering and bring more choice to the market.

“Love Riot is like no other entertainment at sea and is more in keeping with the spectacular aerial Circus artistry found at major festivals around the world.

“We wanted to challenge the conventional production shows found on cruise ships and offer our guests a hilarious, high-energy, premium experience that would really get people talking!

“In addition to Love Riot, guests on Pacific Explorer can also enjoy five other production shows that are all inclusive in the cruise fare including the brand-new Rock stage show.

“We also host three themed parties such as the opulent Gatsby-themed production and Bianco white party and late-night comedy and game-shows at our two entertainment venues, the Black Circus and Marquee Show Lounge. There really is something for everyone to enjoy every evening,” Mr Annable said.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

The Countdown is on for Majestic Princess' Maiden Arrival into Sydney, Australia, There is only one year to go!

Today officially marks one year until Majestic Princess, the newest and most luxurious ship in the Princess fleet, arrives in Australia. Carrying 3,560 guests, the 143,000-tonne mega-liner will be the largest Princess ship ever to sail in Australian waters.

The 330 metre long flagship will arrive in Sydney on Saturday, 15 September 2018, commencing the 2018/2019 summer cruise season in spectacular fashion.

"Majestic Princess is nothing short of magnificent and her arrival highlights Princess' perpetual popularity with Australian and New Zealand cruisers." said Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand, Stuart Allison.

"Today the countdown officially begins, in just twelve months we'll be welcoming our newest, most stylish and most luxurious flagship to our shores."

Once in Australia for her first inaugural Australian season, Majestic Princess will sail on 16 cruises to destinations including Fiji, New Zealand and Tasmania as well as two Asia voyages between Shanghai and Sydney, and Sydney and Hong Kong.  

The ultimate in premium cruising, Majestic Princess Features 13 dining options including two restaurants with menus designed by Michelin star chefs – Harmony by Chef Richard Chen and La Mer by Chef Emmanuel Renaut – as well as more than 1000 square metres of designer shopping, the cruise line's largest ever thermal suite and a dramatic over-the-ocean glass walkway, the SeaWalk.

Guests can choose from a wide range of high-end accommodation including suites, Club Class mini-suites, and new deluxe balcony rooms, with more than 80 per cent of the ship's 1780 staterooms offering private balconies.

So get ready Australia the new breed in Princess Cruise’s ships is certainly going to make her mark on cruising with Princess Cruises in Australia!

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

P&O Cruises' Pacific Explorer, Preety Much Got "Something For Everyone"

P&O Cruises has revealed Pacific Explorer’s hottest on-board activities in a new campaign featuring Much-loved Australian comedian Dave Hughes. The popular larrikin appears in a surprising twist at the end of P&O’s new television commercial which features cruise holiday-goers sampling the ship’s many features.

The commercial gives viewers a glimpse of Pacific Explorer’s traditional Neapolitan pizzeria 400 Gradi, signature P&OEdge Adventure Park, stand-out burlesque show Love Riot and the longest and wildest waterslides at sea.

Australian comedian and radio personality Dave Hughes said he was a big fan of cruise holidays after Performing stand-up comedy on a P&O cruise ship last year.

“I had a fantastic experience performing on a P&O Comedy Cruise in December and brought my family On-board for the occasion. It was probably the easiest holiday we’ve ever had,” Mr Hughes said “Family holidays can require a lot of effort and planning but on a cruise holiday the hard work is all done for you. You get to pick the destination then just unpack once and relax. All you need to worry about is what activities and tours you might like to try that day.”

P&O Cruises’ Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ryan Taibel said the new marketing campaign Showed Pacific Explorer’s wide range of on-board activities in a fun and fresh way.

“Pacific Explorer is the latest ship in the P&O fleet and the only ship to be homeported in Sydney all year round. We know Australians are interested in booking a cruise holiday on the latest product so we decided to build on that interest with a fun and engaging campaign,” Mr Taibel said.

“We wanted to show our audience a sample of Pacific Explorer’s 60 on-board activities to show that the ship really does have something for everyone.

“Dave Hughes is a class act who also loves cruise holidays and makes for a humorous finishing touch to the commercial. We’re sure he’ll get people talking,” Mr Taibel said.

Pacific Explorer’s cruises include a 3-night Food and Wine cruise departing Sydney on November 10, 2017. Fares start from $399* per person quad share. For more information visit pocruises.com.au, call 13 24 94 or see a licensed travel agent.

*subject to availability, conditions apply.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Cunard’s Famous Ocean Liner Queen Mary 2 Brings Glamour To Cunard’s Transatlantic Fashion Week 2017.

Today Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 set sail on her transatlantic fashion week voyage.

It’s the second year in a row the famous ocean liner has held Transatlantic Fashion Week on board Queen Mary 2. Transatlantic fashion week will bring together some of the most reputable names within the fashion industry to host seven days of runway shows, inspiring talks, glamorous dinners and exclusive unveilings.

The voyage will leave Southampton today, 31st August arriving in to New York on the 7th September the very same day as New York Fashion Week 2017 begins.

British Fashion Designer Julien Macdonald OBE, who is known for dressing some of the world’s best-known style icons including Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Celine Dion and Kim Kardashian in his signature red carpet gowns, will showcase some of his most iconic pieces. Over the course of Transatlantic Fashion Week, the celebrated fashion designer will put on two runway shows and take part in a Q&A about his inspirational fashion career.

Julien Macdonald OBE commented: “Cunard’s Transatlantic Fashion Week is such an exciting concept that celebrates the world of fashion in an iconic and timeless venue, the Queen Mary 2. I’m looking forward to having a week on board and bringing some fun and glamour to Cunard’s guests.”

Other fashion greats on board include the highly respected fashion historian and style commentator Colin McDowell MBE who will provide a series of fashion illustration workshops and an inspirational talk during the voyage. In addition Karl Dunkley, the founder and CEO of Royal Warrant holder Grosvenor Shirts, Jermyn Street, will reveal the craftsmanship behind a classic tailored shirt.

Guests on board will attend exclusive first look runway shows featuring collections from the one of the world’s most revered fashion colleges, Parsons School of Design graduates.

New to the Transatlantic Fashion Week and Cunard in the form of a pop-up store will be A-List favourite, luxury swimwear designer Melissa Odabash. Melissa’s designs, worn by Eva Longoria, Gwynth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham, will be available for guests to buy on board Queen Mary 2 during the week.

Award winning British fashion designer Julien Macdonald OBE headlines this year's Transatlantic Fashion Week on board the luxury ocean liner Queen Mary 2. Models wear pieces from Macdonald's signature red carpet collection.

Melissa Odabash remains one of the world’s leading brands in luxury resort wear having won multiple awards including ‘Designer of the Year’ at the prestigious trade show Mode City in Paris.

As a designer, Melissa takes her inspiration from places she visits, people she meets and the cultures she experiences. With her exquisite prints and fabrics, the collections epitomise the glamour and sophistication associated with exclusive world travel.

Also new to Cunard and a first for cruise is the introduction of Mulberry. Mulberry is launching its autumn/ winter 2017 range. As a first at sea, and an exclusive to Queen Mary 2, the range will include iconic styles such as the Bayswater as well as both core and seasonal colours.

In another first for Cunard, there will also be a pop-up store featuring a range of Lucy Choi’s designer shoes. Niece of the legendary Jimmy Choo, Lucy Choi worked in the shoe industry for 10 years before launching her own brand. In just five years, Lucy has opened a flagship store, ‘Lucy Choi London’ and her shoes are now sold internationally.

Cunard will also bring together fashion and art on the high seas. Ahead of the fashion illustration show opening in New York on September 5 for New York Fashion Week, UK dealership Gray MCA will provide guests on board with an exclusive preview of Drawing on Style: Three Masters of Elegance.

The preview has been organised in association with Clarendon Fine Art and features historic and current fashion illustrators. Kenneth Paul Block (1924 - 2009) worked in the late 20th century with Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, Calvin Klein and others. Bil Donovan, a contemporary American illustrator, has worked with Vogue, Dior and The New York Times. Jason Brooks is British and studied at Central St Martins. He counts Elle and Chanel among his clients and has published two books.

Angus Struthers, Vice President, Cunard said: “Although Transatlantic Fashion Week is only in its second year, it is already building quite a reputation as a must attend event attracting some of the world’s foremost fashion designers and commentators.

He added: “Queen Mary 2, the most iconic and glamorous ocean liner in the world, provides the perfect backdrop for what promise to be some amazing shows, headlined by Julien Macdonald OBE. Combined with the opportunity for guests to meet and dine with all featured guests, this unique crossing is sure to delight all on board.

Award winning British fashion designer Julien Macdonald OBE sets sail in style on board Cunard's luxury ocean liner Queen Mary 2 for the first day of Transatlantic Fashion Week 2017. Model wears an iconic creation from Macdonald's signature collection.

About Julien Macdonald OBE

Julien Macdonald OBE studied fashion knitwear at the University of Brighton and received his MA at the Royal College of Art in London. Soon after the success of his RCA graduation show in 1996, his talent caught the attention of Karl Lagerfield at Chanel and he was appointed head designer of knitwear at Chanel as well as for the iconic designers Eponymous label Lagerfield from 1996 to 1998.

Macdonald launched his own label in 1998 with ‘Mermaids’ a static presentation of his designs styled by Isabella Blow and there began his reputation as a leading British fashion designer whose high octane and glamorous designs were soon to be coveted by international stars such as Kate Beckinsale, Beyonce, Kristen Stewart, Madonna, Liv Tyler, Heidi Klum and Kim Kardashian to name a few.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

Photos supplied by: Cunard Line.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Sea Princess To Emerge From Refurbishment "Reimagined"And Guests To "Come Back Completely New" !

In November 2017, in a move to keep the Princess cruises brand ahead of the rest Sea Princess will have new luxurious bedding, stunning entertainment and sumptuous dining options.

Sea Princess is scheduled for an October refurbishment in Singapore, the most anticipated Additions will include the Princess Luxury Bed fitted into every cabin on board the ship.

Developed exclusively for Princess by US sleep expert Dr Michael Breus, the mattress, featuring individually wrapped Coils and two-inch pillow topper, has been designed specifically to deliver the most Comfortable and rejuvenating sleep at sea.

The on-board entertainment is about to take the next step in enhancements, Sea Princess will emerge from her stunning makeover with a bigger and better new Movies under the Stars Screen. Guests will be treated to premium picture, with extreme wide-angel and advanced outdoor light sensors delivering double the image quality of the previous system.

In the show lounge on board Sea Princess the spellbinding and new musical Encore will make its Sea stage debut, enticing a sophisticated evening of music and glamour. Directed and choreographed by world-renown creative director Danny Teeson, Encore celebrates the traditions of pop, opera, and musical Theatre with fresh songs, elaborate costumes and stunning sets.

In another first for Princess cruises and Sea Princess, The Voice of the Ocean will offer an unprecedented interactive in show experience. Inspired by the highest-ranked TV show in the world, the show features live performances, professional mentors, blind auditions, charismatic judges and the iconic rotating Chairs.

For Sea Princess’ younger cruisers, Sea Princess will boast three reimagined youth centres. In partnership with Discovery Channel, the centres are designed specifically for kids and teens as part Princess’ Discovery at Sea program.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia and New Zealand Stuart Allison said “As part of Our Come Back New promise, we are reimagining Sea Princess with impressive upgrades in Dining, entertainment and bedding. We’ve also invested in delivering this promise to our youngest cruisers and their families by adding to youth and kids clubs.”

Sea Princess’ enhancement also sees a transformation of the Café’ Corniche menu to reflect Classic Italian flavours. In addition, The Wheelhouse Bar will sport a revised décor and Menu, inspired by the romance of the Victorian and Prohibition eras.

Sea Princess will sail from Brisbane to Sydney in early-November.

For more information, see a licensed travel agent; call 13 24 88 or visit www.princess.com.au

Photos supplied by: Princess Cruises.

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Get Ready For The Spectacular Return Of Royal Caribbean, Celebrity And Azamara Club Cruises To Australia.

Here Is Everything You Need To Know About The Up And Coming Season In Australia.

The countdown is on to the start of the Australian cruise season, and making a welcome return is Royal Caribbean renowned for the biggest, newest and most modern ships in Australia.

Radiance of the Seas, arriving in Sydney on Sunday 8 October 2017, marks not only the first of the company’s cruise ships to return to our shores, but also Royal Caribbean’s tenth season based in Australia.

Radiance Of The Seas, Photo credit Brian Gaskin of www.australiancruisingnews.com.au

With six stunning Australia-based ships, RCL Cruises - comprising Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises - will offer an incredible selection of 97 cruises available throughout Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and Asia during the 2017/18 summer season, delivering an injection of AUD$198 million to the Australian economy in passenger spend alone.

Joining Radiance of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s ground-breaking Ovation of the Seas, returning for her second and longest #SuperCruising season yet, as well as family-favourites Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas, known as the South Pacific Sisters.

Ovation Of The Seas, Photo credit Brian Gaskin of www.australiancruisingnews.com.au

Celebrity Solstice voted Australia’s favourite ship by Aussie travel agents will celebrate her sixth season in Australia, arriving in Sydney on 20 October 2017 for her first sampler cruise in three seasons.

Meanwhile boutique cruise line, Azamara Club Cruises returns for her third and biggest season down under yet, when Azamara Journey arrives via Australia’s west coast in January, making maiden calls to Adelaide and Perth, as well as a number of regional destinations.

Explorer Of The Seas, Photo credit Brian Gaskin of www.australiancruisingnews.com.au

“You know summer’s in the air when the cruise ships return, and as this is our 10th season since the mighty Rhapsody of the Seas first sailed from Sydney, it is particularly special for us at Royal Caribbean – and more importantly, our travel partners and guests, past and present,” says RCL Cruises managing director, Adam Armstrong.

“The arrival of Rhapsody of the Seas 10 years ago marked a new era in cruising for Australia. Nobody had ever experienced a level of imagination quite like Royal Caribbean’s in local waters before, and guests were blown away by features which, once upon a time, could only be found on Royal, like the rock-climbing wall.”

Voyager Of The Seas

“Ten years ago, our philosophy was to bring the world’s most cutting-edge cruise product to Australia’s doorstep. Today, we continue this proud tradition of delivering Australians with the world’s best holidays at sea – most recently with the all-new Ovation of the Seas. And today, we make a commitment to Australians that they can expect continued excellence in cruising, and even bigger, better, bolder and more modern ships from Royal Caribbean for the next 10 years.”

“To mark our 10 year milestone Royal Caribbean International will be announcing some very special birthday surprises for guests and agents throughout the season - so watch this space.”

Royal has plenty in store for guests this summer, including the return of Ovation of the Seas for a significantly longer season. Together Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, and Voyager of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas will offer 76 sailings ranging from two to 23 nights, calling on 46 ports during the 2017/18 season. Royal Caribbean retains the title of the largest cruise line in Sydney over the summer season – with bigger ships and more capacity than any other cruise line.

Celebrity Solstice, Photo credit Brian Gaskin of www.australiancruisingnews.com.au

This 2017/18 season will also see a number of new cruise ports for Azamara Club Cruises, with Azamara Journey making maiden calls to Perth (Fremantle), Exmouth, Bunbury, Albany and Esperance in Western Australia, plus Adelaide and Kangaroo Island in South Australia.

This will be Azamara’s third and biggest season yet in Australia. Not only will both Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest visit Australia’s shores in one calendar year, the season will also herald the very first of Azamara's country intensive voyages – brand new itineraries which focus on a single country. Plus Azamara Journey will end her 2017/18 season with the line’s inaugural World Journey, a 102-night extravaganza from Sydney to London, calling at 60 ports in 29 countries along the way.

Azamara Quest

Meanwhile modern luxury line Celebrity Cruises will offer 17 sailings ranging from two to 18 nights, calling at 32 ports during the season. The highlight of the season is the return of Celebrity Solstice’s two-night weekend sampler cruise back by popular demand after a three-season hiatus. The sampler, departing Sydney on Friday 20 October, is the perfect chance for Australians to trial Australia’s favourite cruise ship, Celebrity Solstice.

Plus, Celebrity Cruises will offer guests even more opportunity to explore destinations at night, with overnight calls to Cairns, Sydney and Melbourne.

For more information about a cruise visit: ttps://secure.royalcaribbean.com.au/royal/content/en_OC_reg/pdf/local-brochure-2015-2017.pdf

Photos Credit Brian Gaskin Of www.australiancruisingnews.com.au and Royal Caribbean International.

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Experience The Ultimate Foodie Foray With Celebrity Cruises' Chef's Market Discoveries.

 Flavours can evoke the soul of a destination, like Limoncello in Sorrento, caviar in St Petersburg and fragrant lemongrass in Thailand; and there’s no better way to truly discover the heart of a destination than alongside an expert master chef with Celebrity Cruises’ Chef’s Market Discoveries.

Celebrity Cruises, the modern luxury cruise line renowned for its award-winning onboard dining, has created a unique culinary shore excursion concept in its ‘Chef’s Market Discoveries’; offering exclusive on-shore adventures designed with food-lovers and budding chefs in mind. 

Guests are led on an exclusive hands-on tasting tour by a Celebrity Cruises’ chef, who teaches the secrets of sourcing and cooking fresh ingredients from the region. After a day of discovery, the journey continues back onboard the ship with a galley tour – a private glimpse at Celebrity Cruises’ talented chefs at work – followed by an intimate, specially prepared dinner using the local flavours discovered that very day.

“We know that fine food and wine is an incredibly important part of any premium holiday experience, and that’s what our team has in mind when they create these bespoke experiences. Our Chef’s Market Discoveries are the ultimate experience for foodies seeking an authentic culinary adventure,” says Adam Armstrong, managing director, Royal Caribbean Australia and New Zealand.

“Celebrity Cruises’ chefs are constantly travelling to new ports and discovering new flavours which they use to inspire their dishes, so they’re perfectly placed to provide unique insights into the tastes of destinations like Thailand, Italy, Greece, Spain and Russia as well as Australia’s own culinary capital – Melbourne,” Armstrong concluded.

Celebrity Cruises’ renowned food and beverage program is overseen by Associate Vice President of Food and Beverage Operations, Cornelius Gallagher – an internationally-acclaimed Michelin star chef himself. Under his guidance, expert chefs from all over the world serve up dynamic menus onboard, not only as part of the Chef’s Market Discoveries, but also in restaurants like Qsine, offering unexpected twists on familiar favourites; Murano, serving classic French fare; and Tuscan Grille, an Italian steakhouse with flair.

Chef’s Market Discoveries are available on nine Celebrity ships, including Celebrity Millennium, sailing Asia itineraries throughout summer, and Australia’s highest-rated cruise ship, Celebrity Solstice, sailing New Zealand and South Pacific itineraries from October to April.

2017 Chef’s Market Discoveries are priced from USD$199 per person and include locations throughout the world:

Melbourne - Queen Victoria Market and Private Dinner

Discover Melbourne’s local culture and fresh flavours on this Celebrity Chef-led adventure to the famous Queen Victoria Market. Learn about the market’s fascinating history while exploring with the chef, who’ll take you to stalls overflowing with sweetbreads, snake beans, buffalo milk mozzarella, fresh-shucked Coffin Bay Oysters, grilled peppered kangaroo and pickled octopus. This unique hunter and gatherer experience will immerse you in the lively culture of Melbourne. Back onboard, embark on a galley tour followed by an intimate chef-hosted dinner featuring the flavours of Melbourne.

Port: Melbourne, Australia Cruise:14-night New Zealand Cruise on Celebrity Solstice departing Sydney, 11 November 2017. Fares start from AU$2149/NZ$2359 for an Interior Stateroom, twin share.

Bangkok - Thai Culinary Arts School and Private Dinner

Accompanied by our Celebrity Chef, you’ll source and learn about Thai ingredients during a stroll through a local Thai fresh market, before travelling to the Nah Pah Thai Culinary Arts School. There, you’ll meet an award-winning local chef who will prepare four different Thai dishes and show how to master the art of Thai cuisine. Following a visit to Pattaya’s Big Buddha Temple, your journey continues on board with a galley tour and chef-hosted dinner, where you’ll taste the Modern Luxury version of the day’s culinary adventure.

Port: Bangkok/Laem Chabang, Thailand Cruise: 14 Southeast Asia Immersion Cruise on Celebrity Millennium departing Singapore, 10 December 2017.  Fares start from AUD$2,029/ NZ$2,219 per person for an Interior Stateroom, twin share. 

Naples - Sorrento Gastronomy Discovery and Private Dinner

Learn how Limoncello, olive oil and mozzarella cheese are made, while travelling from Naples to the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento, Italy. Stroll through a local market in Sorrento where Celebrity’s Chef will introduce guests to greengrocers and learn about the legendary “Femminello” lemon and the production of Limoncello. Visit a family farm producing mozzarella cheese and olive oil and discover an antique wine cantina before indulging in a delicious lunch featuring the region’s own pasta, fresh tomato, mozzarella, caciotta cheese, and caciocavallo. Explore Positano’s bougainvillea-laced streets and finish the day back on the ship with an intimate chef-hosted dinner of Italian fare.

Port: Naples, Italy

Cruise: 10 Nights Italy & Greek Isles Cruise on Celebrity Reflection departing Rome, September 29 2017. Fares from AU$2,629/NZ$2,749 per person for an Interior stateroom, twin share.

Crete - Culinary Secrets of Chania and Private Dinner

Escape to the Botanical Park of Askordalos in Chania, Crete - a plant lover’s paradise - and learn about medicinal plants, herbs, and fruit trees from around the world. Guests will stroll through Chania’s Agora market to source fresh fish, meat, and local products and be shown how to cook a traditional Cretan dish, and sample Boureki (a local pie) and Gemista (Greek stuffed vegetables). Back on board, a tour of the ship’s galley will conclude with a special meal inspired by the day’s flavours.

Port: Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece

Cruise: 12 night Israel & Mediterranean Cruise on Celebrity Constellation departing Athens, 31 October 2017. Fares start from AU$1959/NZ$2139 per person for an Interior stateroom.

About Cornelius Gallagher

Fortunate enough to have discovered his passion at age 12, and after more than two decades in New York City’s cutting-edge and highly respected culinary arena, Cornelius Gallagher now oversees modern luxury cruise brand Celebrity Cruises’ food and beverage operations. As Associate Vice President, Chef Gallagher leads more than 7,000 food and beverage professionals, and is responsible for all menu development and implementation as well as all aspects of culinary, service and beverage operations across the line’s 12 ships. 

Prior to his time in the cruise industry, Gallagher was Corporate Chef for the Bohlsen Group, where he oversaw six of the most well-known dining establishments on Long Island, NY. He also notably served as Executive Chef for Michelin-starred restaurant “Oceana” in Midtown Manhattan, where he earned a number of awards and accolades, including being named one of Food & Wine Magazine’s “Best New Chefs” and “Best Chef” by New York Magazine in 2003. 

For further information or to make a booking, visit www.celebritycruises.com.au or phone 1800 754 500.

Information supplied by: Celebrity Cruises.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Photos supplied by: Celebrity Cruises.

Stop Your Snoozing On Sleep, With Celebrity Cruises Mindful Dreams !

Celebrity Cruises and Canyon Ranch Spa Club want to ensure that modern travellers remember the importance of beauty sleep with the launch of their new wellness program, Mindful Dreams. This curated program invites modern luxury travellers to experience new treatments, products and sleeping aids. Additionally guests receive nutrition advice on the best culinary choices to aid in sleep, access to expert lectures and special instructional classes promoting a holistic approach to mindful sleep, both on land and at sea.

“A holiday is prime opportunity to rest and recharge, so partnering with Canyon Ranch Spa Club to offer Mindful Dreams was a natural evolution of our wellness program on board,” shared Susan Bonner, Vice President, Revenue Management and On-board Revenue, Celebrity Cruises. “Through this partnership we hope to not only help guests further relax during their sailing, but also take home a lifetime of wellness tips that they can incorporate mindfully into their daily routines.”

“Sleep is no luxury,” states Param Dedhia, Director of Sleep Medicine, Canyon Ranch, adamantly. “With a restorative night’s sleep, you nourish your mind, body and spirit.”

Among the exclusive offerings is the relaxation treatment of which the program takes its namesake – Mindful Dreams. This incomparable sleep-encouraging experience incorporates products specifically designed to soothe alongside a sleep-inducing cultural massage and meditation techniques. This focused treatment promises to evoke instant tranquillity and fosters inner well-being, calmness and serenity, transporting guests to the perfect getaway state-of-mind.

Additional treatments include:

•Organic lavender and seaweed sugar glow

•Age-defying restorative facial

•Lazy days detox seaweed bath

•And more!

The program features VOYA luxury products designed to deeply hydrate and smooth even the driest skin. The lavender body care range, Tranquillity, incorporated in many of the treatments, helps to ease the stresses of everyday life, leading to a feeling of relaxation and peace. All ingredients are organic and sustainably harvested on the western coast of Ireland.

Mindful Dreams programming has debuted on Celebrity Equinox and Celebrity Summit from August 2017 and has become available fleet wide throughout September 2017.

For more information on Mindful Dreams, please visit www.celebritycruises.com and www.canyonranch.com/at-sea/celebrity-cruises

Information supplied by: Celebrity Cruises.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Cunard Line, P&O Cruises UK And Princess Cruises Take Bookings For Same Sex Marriages On Board Thier Ships !

In an announcement by Carnival Corporation in the United States who owns 10 of the most influential cruising brands in the world has taken the opportunity to announce that they will offer same-sex marriages following a recent ruling by the Supreme Court allowing same-sex marriages in Bermuda.

Cunard Line, P&O Cruises UK and Princess Cruises are all now taking bookings for same sex-marriages at sea on board their Bermuda-registered cruise ships. It is also worth noting that Princess Cruises are in the process of putting together packages and amenities that will meet the needs of same-sex couple ceremonies.

Princess Cruises will be releasing full details shortly.

​Seven of the eight ships that are in the P&O Cruises UK fleet, with the exception of the flagship Britannia, are registered in Bermuda. Cunard Line’s three ships are all registered in Bermuda. All 13 ships in the Princess Cruises fleet are also registered in Bermuda.

The ceremonies will be able to be performed by the ship’s Captain or Deputy Captain, with marriage licenses issued by the Bermudan Government.

P&O Cruise’s UK first same-sex ceremony is due to take place on board Azura in January 2018. The cruise line’s Weddings at Sea packages start from £1,200.

Paul Ludlow, Senior Vice President, P&O Cruises, said: "I am delighted that following this much anticipated change in the legalities we are now the first British cruise line to be able to arrange same sex weddings on-board. Weddings at sea are very romantic and getting married by the Captain (or deputy captain) in the middle of the ocean is an unforgettable experience."

Cunard Line’s Weddings at Sea packages start from $2,800 on Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria and $3,400 on board the world famous ocean liner, Queen Mary 2.

Simon Palethorpe, Senior Vice President, Cunard Line, said: "This is very welcome news for us and I am delighted that we have become one of the first British cruise lines to take a booking for a same-sex wedding. We look forward to welcoming this couple and many other couples too."

Australian Cruising News com.au will be seeking comment from Cunard Line, P&O Cruises UK and Princess Cruises representatives here in Australia to find out when ceremonies will be able to be conducted in Australian Waters.

Information supplied by: www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Pacific Eden To Return From Refurbishment With Some Stunning Entertainment Venues!

P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Eden will have some of her public areas refurbished along with two newly refurbished entertainment venues.

Currently Pacific Eden is in Singapore undergoing a 12-day refurbishment ahead of the start of her much anticipated Cairns cruise season.

Pacific Eden’s two-storey Marquee Show Lounge is being given a stylish new look and feel with a dramatic black, white and emerald-green colour scheme, custom wallpaper and unique artworks.

Popular late night hot spot, The Dome, will be updated to take on a contemporary nautical theme with dark navy blue and white hues, drapes and soft lighting.

The Marquee Show Lounge.

Only selected mini-suites and balcony cabins will receive new carpets and outdoor furniture whilst the cinema, spa, gym and HQ and HQ Plus will also be revitalised. In total, 11,000 square metres of new carpet will be fitted on the 1500-guest ship.

Both Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden were introduced to the P&O Cruises Australia fleet on November 25^th 2015 after an extensive refurbishment in Singapore.

P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said the latest refurbishment was part of the cruise lines

Commitment to continually evolve and enhance the design of the fleet.

Mr Myrmell said since Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden underwent their extensive transformation in 2015, we’ve strived to build a reputation as a modern Australian cruise line that provides memorable holidays in a unique setting.

The Dome.

A key part of that process is to deliver a stylish, modern look and feel across the ship’s public spaces and produce venues that would be more at home in a high-end resort than on a cruise ship.

“The Marquee Show Lounge and The Dome are two of Pacific Eden’s most popular venues and theNew upgrades will continue to push the boundaries on our designs and what passengers can continue to expect from our fleet,” Mr Myrmell said.

Pacific Eden is scheduled to emerge from dry dock on August 10 ahead of a 9-night sailing from Cairns to the Conflict Islands on August 24.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au The Home Of Australian Cruising!

P&O Cruises Australia Will Officially Name Pacific Explorer In Naming Ceremony Tomorrow In Sydney.

One of the world's most loved adventurers, Dora the Explorer, is exploring new territory as the first Nickelodeon character to be crowned Godmother of a cruise ship, P&O's Pacific Explorer.

Pacifc Explorer, Atrium.

Pacific Explorer is set to have the 'slime of her life' when Dora christens the ship at a naming ceremony at Sydney's Overseas Passenger Terminal tomorrow Sunday July 2nd.

Pacific Explorer, Chefs Table.

Pacific Explorer, Blue Room.

The popular character will be joined by her closest Nickelodeon friends including SpongeBob SquarePants, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Skye from PAW Patrol at a Welcome Party to celebrate the fifth ship in P&O's fleet.

Pacific Explorer, Charlies Bar.

Pacific Explorer, Ocean Bar.

Pacific Explorer is fitted a range of new activities including the longest and wildest waterslides at sea, an interactive water park, P&OEdge Adventure Park - with activities such as zip lining and rock climbing, an outdoor Big Screen, and barefoot lawn bowls.

Pacific Explorer, Lawn Bowls.

"In keeping with the ship's family appeal, it felt only fitting to invite a much loved household name like Nickelodeon's Dora the Explorer to be Godmother. She's a family favourite, enjoys adventure and trying new activities, and is a perfect fit to help showcase all that our ship has to offer", said P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell.

Pacific Explorer, Home By P&O Cruises.

Sture Myrmell said Pacific Explorer was the next stage in the evolution of P&O's very popular modern Australian holiday offering and has something on-board for everyone.

Pacific Explorer, Black Circus.

"We've taken the winning features of our existing ships and added a whole new layer of excitement with some big wow moments like the waterslides and the bowling green and the elegant new small bar The Bonded Store, featuring a cocktail list created in partnership with Sydney-based award-winning Archie Rose Distilling Co, as well as whisky and gin-making classes".

Pacific Explorer, Angelos And Dragon Lady Reception.

Pacific Explorer, The Bonded Store.

Continuing P&O Cruises' ongoing food evolution, Pacific Explorer's features new dining choices from fast-casual dining at Luke's, a new poolside grill by Australian chef and restauranteur Luke Mangan to a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria called 400 Gradi, by award-winning Melbourne chef Johnny Di Francesco.

Pacific Explorer 400 Gradi.

Pacific Explorer, The Pantry.

Pacific Explorer arrived into Sydney on Monday 19^th of June it’s where Pacific Explorer will be home-ported year round. The ship departed on its maiden voyage a 10-night cruise to the Pacific Islands Friday the 22^nd of June. Pacific Explorer arrives back into Sydney tomorrow for her naming ceremony.

Pacific Explorer, Angelos.

Pacifc Explorer, Dragon Lady.

General Manager of Nickelodeon Australia Ben Cox is thrilled to help host the festivities at P&O's Nautical Nonsense with Nickelodeon Welcome Party.

Pacific Explorer, Waterfront Restaurant.

Pacific Explorer, The Explorer Hotel.

"We're excited for Dora to take on her new role as Godmother of Pacific Explorer. Nickelodeon is synonymous with family entertainment and we can't wait to bring our characters on-board this fantastic ship to host the best family party yet," said Cox.

Pacific Explorer Suite Cabin.

Pacifc Explorer, Cabin.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Photos credit: P&O Cruises Australia.

The Wait Is Almost Over Pacific Explorer Arrives At Her New Homeport In Sydney, Australia Tomorrow !

In less than 24 hours’ time, P&O Cruises will welcome its latest ship to the fleet when Pacific Explorer arrives in Sydney following a multi-million-dollar refurbishment.

Tomorrow the 19^th of June 2017, Pacific Explorer will sail in to Sydney for the first time after spending 12-days in dry dock in Singapore.

While Pacific Explorer does arrive in Sydnery tomorrow the ship will do a one night media and travel agent shakedown cruise on Wednesday the 21st of June before her official first cruise on Thursday the 22nd of june 2017.

Pacific Explorer was transformed into an iconic P&O cruise ship with the help of more than 1,000 contractors who spent over 200,000 hours fitting 25,000 square metres of new carpet and painting 10,000 square metres of walls before installing over 3,000 items of new furniture and 1,200 pieces of artwork.

Similar to sister-ship Pacific Dawn, Pacific Explorer will be fitted with the longest and wildest waterslides at sea and an interactive water park. One slide is transparent so that spectators can watch guests shoot through its twists and turns, while the other slide is multi-coloured, with music pumping through it to give guests a high-impact ride to the bottom.

Pacific Explorer will also wear the signature Southern Cross livery emblazoned on her hull, which was also debuted by Pacific Dawn in March this year.

New and exclusive to Pacific Explorer are two new 'fast-casual' dining options:

Luke's, a poolside grill by Australian chef and restaurateur Luke Mangan and 400 Gradi, a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria by award-winning Melbourne chef Johnny Di Francesco.

Relaxation and good times will also be on the menu in Pacific Explorer's elegant new small bar, The Bonded Store, featuring a cocktail list created in partnership with Sydney-based award-winning Archie Rose Distilling Co, as well as whisky and gin-making classes.

Guests can also enjoy a cocktail or two on the upper deck playing outdoor lawn bowls – an Australian cruise ship first.

Offering something for everyone on board, guests will also be able to dine in the ship's Waterfront Restaurant, try a taste of la dolce vita in its Italian restaurant Angelo's, relax in the sultry atmosphere of the pan-Asian restaurant Dragon Lady or be spoilt for choice in The Pantry, an international marketplace of nine fresh food outlets already popular across the P&O Cruises' Australia fleet.

P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said Pacific Explorer would be a fitting new addition to the fleet.

"Pacific Explorer is the next stage in the evolution of P&O, building on our very popular modern Australian holiday offering with some exciting new features. We've taken the winning features of our existing ships and added a whole new layer of excitement with some big wow moments like the waterslides and the bowling green and The Bonded Store, which we're sure will put a smile on our guests' faces. It really will be a ship that offers something for everyone and we can't wait to show her off to our guests"

“The past two years have seen the evolution of our cruise product with all our ships now offer great food and wine options and a contemporary look and feel,” Mr Myrmell said.

“We’re very excited to be taking the next step on Pacific Explorer with our new burger and pizza offerings, which reflects the trend towards casual gourmet dining on land.

“Australians love Salt grill by Luke Mangan on our existing ships, so we’re looking forward to giving them a new way to enjoy Luke’s talent, with al fresco dining at Luke’s on Pacific Explorer. It’s going to offer a modern, relaxed setting, providing a great backdrop for some seriously delicious gourmet burgers – including Luke’s Chicken Confidential burger which is making waves in Sydney at the moment,” he said.  

Mr Myrmell said Pacific Explorer guests keen to enjoy the Salt grill experience, would be able to book a special ‘Taste of Salt’ dinner at the ship’s Chef’s Table, with a seven-course degustation meal including some of Luke’s most famous dishes as well as matching wines.

Pacific Explorer will also be home to a new pizzeria, 400 Gradi, overseen by famed Melbourne pizza chef Johnny Di Francesco. The first Australian ever trained in Naples to the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana VPN rules, Johnny was the winner of the Best Pizza in the World award in 2014.

On-board Pacific Explorer, 400 Gradi will be serving up more than a dozen types of traditional Italian Neapolitan pizzas along with charcuteries boards, olives, cheeses and salads.

The casual dining outlets will join a range of other exciting new offerings on Pacific Explorer including a partnership with Sydney distillery Archie Rose Distilling Co in the ship’s premium cocktail bar, The Bonded Store, which will feature a tantalising list of cocktails made with Archie Rose’s handcrafted spirits.

Other new features for the ship include a waterpark and two spectacular waterslides shooting over the side of the ship as well as a relaxed barefoot lawn bowls area.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

www.australiancruisingnews.com.au

Photos supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Where Is Pacific Pearl Now !

On the 3 March 2016, P&O Cruises Australia announced that the Pacific Pearl would be transferring out of the fleet in March 2017. Having completed 294 cruises for P&O, the Pacific Pearl has carried more than half a million passengers over five years. On March 7, 2016, it was announced that the ship will be transferred to Cruise & Maritime Voyages as the Columbus becoming their new flagship.

The farewell voyage of the ship commenced in Auckland on March 27 2017, spanning 16 days and docking at six ports before finally ending in Singapore on April 12 2017.On April 12 2017 Pacific Pearl arrived in Singapore and underwent dry dock to become Columbus. The Pacific Jewel will be replacing her out of New Zealand.

Pacific Pearl joined the P&O Cruises Australia fleet in December 2010 and was launched in New Zealand. Her latest refurbishment happened in August 2015 and this brought her more into line with the two new refurbished ships Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden which have been refurbished to more contemporary upmarket look for the Australian cruise market.

Pacific Pearls godmother is the New Zealand triple Olympic medal winner, Barbara Kendall.

In becoming a much loved passenger favourite, Pacific Pearl made a huge contribution to building the cruise category in the region particularly in New Zealand, introducing thousands of holidaymakers to the joys of cruising,” said P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell.

In addition to a contribution to the growth of cruise in Australia, Pacific Pearl played a big part in growing the New Zealand season by more than 20 per cent over the past four years.”

Mr Myrmell said Pacific Pearl’s departure was part of the ongoing evolution of the P&O Cruises’ brand.

Farewelling Pacific Pearl is a natural progression in which we are increasing the size of the fleet while redefining modern cruising in this part of the world. This is a very exciting time for P&O Cruises and our guests and is part of our long-term commitment to grow the cruise market.”

Pacific Pearl has certainly served the P&O Cruises fleet with class and elegance giving Australian and New Zealanders a touch of classic cruising!

At 63,786grt, with a draft of 8.20 metres and overall length of nearly 250 metres, Columbus was purpose built for deep sea ocean cruising and we believe is ideally suited to the type of exciting scenic cruise programme we operate. She underwent an extensive refit in August 2015 and will be upgraded further in April 2017 before the start of her maiden CMV season. 

Columbus has 775 passenger cabins including 64 de luxe balcony cabins and junior suites which will please many of our customers who have been asking for more balcony accommodation.  Following the successful trial on board Magellan, and recognising the needs of single travellers, 150 cabins will be allocated for solos.

Information supplied by: www.australiancruisingnews.com.au

Photos supplied by: Cruise & Maritime Voyages.