Only One Week Left For You To Win A BIG Adventure On Ovation Of The Seas 

Royal Caribbean Wants to Know Your Big List For A Chance To Sail On Australia’s Newest And Biggest Ever Cruise Ship.

Royal Caribbean is counting down the days until one lucky winner will have the chance to win one of the biggest experiences in cruising: a cruise for two on the newest, biggest and most technologically advanced cruise ship to ever be deployed to Australia – Ovation of the Seas. 

To be in the running, Royal Caribbean wants to know what’s on your “Big List” – whether it’s as adventurous as paragliding or as heartfelt as spending more time with your loved ones. But hurry, entries close on 29 January 2016.

“At Royal Caribbean, we believe in living life big, so we’re counting down the days until our 5,000-guest, US$1 billion megaliner Ovation of the Seas arrives on Australian shores in December 2016,” said Adam Armstrong, regional commercial director, Royal Caribbean.

“To celebrate the arrival of Australia’s first ever brand new cruise ship, we want people to think big for their chance to be one of the first to experience this truly incredible megaliner”, he concluded.

Currently under construction in Germany, Ovation of the Seas is the third ship in the ground-breaking Quantum Class and likely to tick a few things off anyone’s Big List.  She will introduce a new set of first-at-sea onboard experiences to Australia, including robot bartenders at the Bionic Bar; a heart-pounding skydiving experience, Ripcord by iFLY; North Star, a thrilling adventure that will transport guests as high as the Sydney Harbour Bridge; cutting-edge venues including SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, a circus school and more.

Ovation of the Seas has also reimagined cruise ship dining with the introduction of “Dynamic Dining” where guests can choose from 18 unique restaurant concepts, including Jamie Oliver’s Jamie’s Italian, Michael’s Genuine Pub, the enchanting Wonderland and Royal Caribbean favourites including Chops Grille steakhouse and Izumi Japanese. 

The ship will also feature the unique Quantum Class’ transformative space, Two70 – an expansive lounge boasting 270 degree ocean views by day which becomes a multimedia entertainment spectacular at night, fusing technology with entertainment using robotic video-screens, dramatic digital projection and high-flying aerialists and performers to thrill and excite guests. 

Technology has been amped up on Ovation of the Seas with high speed internet offering more bandwidth than all other cruise ships combined so guests can stream, video call and surf as fast as they would onshore. New radio frequency smart bands also mean you can get into your stateroom and make onboard purchases without the need for the cruise card. While the Royal iQ app makes keeping track of your onboard schedule simple with all bookings and cruise details stored and updated automatically.

Competition Details Create your Big List at www.mybiglist.com.au for your chance to win a 15-night cruise for two in an Oceanview stateroom on Ovation of the Seas, where you can start ticking off your list with Royal Caribbean and Live Life Big!

The 15-night New Zealand cruise departs Sydney on 15 December 2016, and includes calls at Hobart, Dunedin, Wellington, Picton, Tauranga and Auckland as well as scenic cruising through Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds. The competition is open to Australian and New Zealand residents over 18 years, and closes 12.59pm Friday 29 January 2016. Entries will be judged based on creativity and originality, so choose wisely, and think big.

Full terms & conditions can be accessed here : http://www.royalcaribbean.com.au/contentPage.do?pagename=my_big_list_terms

Information supplied by : Royal Caribbean International.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

P&O Cruises Celebrates Australia Day In Style, By Putting Ships On Land And At Sea.

P&O Cruises will be celebrating Australia Day at sea and on land next week, with the cruise line berthing a record four ships in Sydney Harbour – and giving Sydneysiders the chance to build a giant LEGO® ship in the city.

The cruise line has joined forces with the Museum of Sydney to invite LEGO fans to help LEGO certified professional Ryan McNaught as he builds a model of P&O’s Pacific Eden in the forecourt of the museum between 9am and 3pm on January 26.

A model of Pacific Eden’s sister ship, Pacific Aria, is already on display inside the museum as part of its stunning Sydney Harbour Icons with LEGO® Bricks exhibition.

Meanwhile, the real Pacific Eden and Pacific Aria will be on Sydney Harbour next Tuesday, alongside Pacific Pearl and Pacific Jewel, with more than 6500 guests onboard to enjoy the day of celebrations.  

This will be the first time P&O has had four ships on the harbour for Australia Day, and follows the expansion of its fleet to five ships last November with the addition of Pacific Eden and Pacific Aria.

P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said the cruise line was pleased to be once again sponsoring Australia Day activities and positioning its ships on Sydney Harbour, while also working with LEGO in such a special way on the day.

“As part of our partnership with LEGO, the kids’ clubs on all our ships feature a range of fantastic LEGO activities which our guests love, so it’s very exciting to be able to bring the action to land for Australia Day with this special chance to make an amazing ship model with Ryan,” Mr Myrmell said. 

“We’re also delighted that P&O’s Pacific Aria is part of the Sydney Harbour Icons with LEGO Bricks exhibition at the Museum of Sydney.  Sydney remains one of the most popular destinations in the world for cruise ships and it’s great to see cruising recognised as part of the action and beauty of our harbour in this stunning exhibition.”

The Pacific Aria model took Ryan McNaught 353 hours to build and is made of more than 163,000 bricks.  Weighing in at more than 80kgs, the ship features a range of LEGO miniature figures including celebrities such as chef Luke Mangan, whose restaurant Salt Grill stars on all P&O ships, chasing a pig and David Hoff (formerly Hasselhoff) on the dance floor.  Observant visitors to the exhibition will even find a figure of Ryan in the Shark Shack club on the top deck playing LEGO with some kids.

The Sydney Harbour Icons with LEGO® Bricks exhibition is on display at the Museum of Sydney until July 31, 2016.  For more information visit http://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/museum-of-sydney 

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Game, Set, Match: Sydneysiders Score With Australian Open Cruise

A shipload of Sydneysiders are taking their Grand Slam spectating from the couch to centre court this week, with P&O Cruises’ Pacific Pearl offering an ace way to travel to the Australian Open in Melbourne.

Pacific Pearl departs Sydney today with its 1800 guests set to flock to Melbourne Park for two days of tennis action on Thursday and Friday after enjoying a leisurely journey down to Melbourne.

Proving to be one of the most popular fixtures in the cruise line’s calendar,  the five-night round trip cruise is P&O’s third dedicated Australian Open cruise and offers a value-packed and stress-free way of attending one of Australia’s biggest sporting events.

General admission to the Australian Open and transfers to and from the grounds are included in the cruise fare, with guests purchasing more than 1700 upgrades to Rod Laver Arena and Margaret Court Arena for the two-day stay in Melbourne, which will take in the second and third round matches.

The cruise fans represent one of the biggest single groups to attend the Open and will inject more than $250,000 into the tournament in one serve.

P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell said the tennis-themed cruise was always a huge hit with guests.

“Australians love their sport and while they are often prepared to spend big travelling to their favourite events, cruising offers an easier and more affordable way for sports tourists to attend world-class tournaments like the Australian Open. Where flights and accommodation can book up months in advance and cost a small fortune, cruising is an all-inclusive option which takes the stress out of planning while providing a fun and relaxing experience either side of the action,” Mr Myrmell said.

The Australian Open is part of P&O Cruises’ ‘main event’ line up, which also includes cruises to the Melbourne Cup, Australia Day, State of Origin and the Auckland Nines.

During the cruise to Melbourne, guests will be able to keep score of the early round action with the Australian Open screened live on the ship’s giant poolside screen. Fans will also be able to warm up for their day at the Open with tennis-themed trivia, table tennis competitions and Wii tennis tournaments setting the scene, plus they’ll be able to have their photo taken with an Australian Open trophy onboard.

Tennis fans wanting to catch the action next year can join Pacific Pearl’s Australian Open cruise, departing Sydney on January 19, 2017. The five-night cruise is priced from $699* per person quad share and includes transfers to and from the grounds, general admission tickets plus the opportunity to upgrade to Rod Laver Arena from just $100 per person. This offer ends February 25, 2016.

For more information visit www.pocruises.com.au, or see a licensed travel agent.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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P&O’s Pacific Eden Completes Australian Maiden Visit Trifecta In Portland, Victoria.

P&O Cruises’ Pacific Eden cruised into Portland early yesterday morning, completing a trifecta of maiden visits to regional ports along the Australian coast this week. 

Featuring a relaxed, stylish design which reflects modern Australia, the 55,820-tonne Pacific Eden docked in Portland’s harbour yesterday allowing its 1500 guests to spend the day exploring the picturesque Victoria town, famous for its rich seafaring heritage. 

Pacific Eden’s passengers had the chance to discover the town’s many attractions, including special markets selling local produce, the serene Botanic Gardens and the popular Portland Maritime Discovery Centre. 

Pacific Eden’s Portland call was her third maiden port visit on an eight-night roundtrip cruise from Sydney visiting only regional towns, with earlier inaugural calls including Eden (Sunday) and Mornington Peninsula (Tuesday). Pacific Eden will visit South Australia’s gourmet food hub, Kangaroo Island today before returning to Sydney.

P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell said the cruise line was excited to have one of its latest ships visit Portland. 

“Portland is an ideal port for P&O’s cruise passengers as its harbourside berth offers easy access to the town’s many attractions,” Mr Myrmell said.

P&O Cruises’ ships will make three visits in total to Portland in 2016, injecting more than half a million dollars into the local economy. Pacific Jewel called to Portland on January 7, while Pacific Eden will return on February 6, 2016.

Pacific Eden’s Portland call is her third maiden port visit on an eight-night roundtrip Sydney itinerary which visits only regional towns. After maiden visits to Eden, Mornington Peninsula and Portland, Pacific Eden will visit South Australia’s gourmet food hub Kangaroo Island before returning to Sydney.

For more information call 13 24 94, visit www.pocruises.com.au, or see a licensed travel agent.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Age of Discovery: A Cocktail Collaboration From Cunard, The Savoy And Jack Daniel’s.

Cocktails on the deck will take on a new meaning onboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 during her current Age of Discovery World Voyage which will see the flagship visit Australia in March. 

The liner will be carrying a 300-litre barrel of a specially created cocktail on its open decks, following a collaboration between three of the world’s most highly acclaimed brands: Cunard, The Savoy Hotel and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey.  

The Age of Discovery cocktail was created by the team at the world-famous Savoy Beaufort Bar and influenced by the tastes and aromas of the continents that Queen Mary 2 will visit on her voyage, from Europe to Asia, Africa, the Americas and Oceania.

It features a blend of Savoy Select Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 and Bacardi 8, with Spice Trail Madeira, Dubonnet, Martini Riserva Rubino and Earl Grey and cocoa nib bitters.

The cocktail will mature in a hand-chosen Jack Daniel’s first fill American oak Single Barrel which was hoisted by crane onto Queen Mary 2 last weekend (January 10) in Southampton and installed on her decks for the 41,000 nautical mile, four-month voyage.

As Queen Mary 2 visits 39 ports in 27 countries, the barrel will be exposed to varied elements and climates that will influence the final result. Prevailing temperatures, humidity and sunlight, as well as more inclement conditions, will combine to produce this truly unique barrel-aged cocktail.

The progress of Age of Discovery will be charted via social media throughout its passage across the oceans, and will appear in the world’s most iconic ports and cities. The barrel will have its own log book.

When Queen Mary 2 returns to Southampton on May 10, 2016, the barrel will be ceremoniously unloaded and will travel to the specially-commissioned Houston Bottling & Co Pack plant in West Dunbartonshire.

It is estimated that the unique barrel will yield a minimum of 250 litres of Age of Discovery, which will become the latest in The Savoy Collection; one of the world's most prestigious and unique collections of one-of-a-kind spirits and liquids. 

Meanwhile guests onboard Queen Mary 2’s world voyage will be able to sample a non-aged version of the cocktail.

A video on the creation of the cocktail is available here: https://youtu.be/PjyY9BCRJzw

For more details on Cunard visit www.cunard.com phone 132 441 or see a licensed travel agent.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

P&O’s Pacific Eden Makes History This Morning, With A Stunning First Visit To Mornington Peninsula.

P&O Cruises’ latest ship Pacific Eden has made history this morning, visiting Mornington Peninsula for the first time as part of an eight-night itinerary taking in regional attractions along Australia’s south coast.  

Featuring a relaxed, stylish design which reflects modern Australia, the 55,820-tonne Pacific Eden is scheduled to spend the day on Mornington Peninsula, with its 1500 guests spending the day exploring the Victorian region famous for its geothermal hot springs and charming seaside hamlets.  

Pacific Eden’s call to Mornington Peninsula is the second maiden visit as part of her roundtrip cruise from Sydney. Following her first call to Eden on Sunday, Pacific Eden will make her maiden call to Portland tomorrow before visiting South Australia’s gourmet food hub Kangaroo Island.

P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell said Pacific Eden had received a warm welcome from the people of Mornington Peninsula.

“Mornington Peninsula offers a wonderful opportunity for P&O’s cruise passengers to explore a whole range of local attractions including waterfront dining at the historic township of Sorrento, a chance to swim with dolphins and a taste of the region’s fine wines,” Mr Myrmell said.

P&O Cruises’ ships will make three visits in total to Mornington Peninsula in 2016, injecting more than half a million dollars into the local economy. Pacific Eden will return on January 30, while Pacific Jewel will visit Mornington on March 6, 2016.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia.

P&O Cruises Celebrates New Year With New Wave of Offers.

P&O Cruises’ “Biggest Ever Offer” is back – and it’s bigger and better than before, with the cruise line celebrating its expanded five ship fleet by offering up to five great inclusions. 

Available across more than 626 cruises sailing from eight different ports, the sale fares are on offer until February 25, 2016.

Guests who book during the sale period will receive up to five different offers including up to $300* onboard credit per room, a free soft drink package, an upgrade from an interior room to an oceanview room, a bonus mystery shore tour on cruises of seven nights or longer and half-priced deposits. 

As an added bonus guests cruising from Singapore or Cairns will receive up to $800* P&O CruiseAir credit per room (quad share) on cruises of seven nights or longer, to be used for the flight to their city of departure.

Itineraries on offer include:

* A three-night Sea Break cruise to Margaret River departing Fremantle on June 1, 2016, priced from  $299* per person quad share

* A three-night Moreton Island Sea Break cruise from Sydney departing February 29, 2016 with fares from $349* per person quad share

* A seven-night South Pacific cruise roundtrip from Brisbane, departing July 9, 2016 with visits to Noumea, Lifou and Vila priced from $599* per person quad share.

* A 10-night Papua New Guinea cruise roundtrip from Brisbane on October 31, 2016 with visits to Alotau, Kitava, Rabaul, Kiriwina Island, Trobriand Islands and Conflict Islands priced from $899* per person quad share

* An 10-night Vanuatu cruise from Sydney, departing July 21, 2016 and calling at Noumea, Lifou, Vila, Mystery Island, Isle of Pines priced from $799* per person quad share

*subject to availability, terms and conditions apply.

Informaton supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Shannan Ponton Set Bring Back The Inspiration To Carnival Cruisers In 2016.

Carnival Cruise Line’s guests will have a helping hand with their health and fitness goals this year, following the return of fitness and healthy living expert Shannan Ponton to the cruise line’s local ships.

Shannan will be helping guests maintain their exercise and nutrition objectives on two cruises from Sydney in April and November, offering a brand new nutrition advice seminar, in addition to his popular Biggest Bootcamp at Sea classes and motivation seminars.

 Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend feature a world-class two-deck fitness centre with regular fitness classes, an outdoor jogging track and a sports court, as well as more than 45 daily activities offering something for everyone, no matter their holiday speed.

Carnival Spirit’s 10-night cruise to New Caledonia and Vanuatu with Shannan is priced from $1149* per person twin share, departing Sydney on April 15. Shannan will also be onboard Carnival Legend for a 10-night cruise to New Caledonia and Vanuatu departing Sydney on November 26, priced from $1249* per person twin share. 

To get a taste of Shannan at sea, watch these great tips for a FUN family holiday:  1. https://youtu.be/Ap7rW48qu_M

2. https://youtu.be/KGkYxdSFBd0 3. https://youtu.be/PwIxEkJa3mA

More details on Shannan’s dedicated departures can be found here. For more information call 13 31 94, see a travel agent or visit www.carnival.com.au

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia Thr HOME Of Australian Cruising!

When Eden Met Eden: P&O’s Pacific Eden Visits Her Namesake Port For The VERY First Time !

P&O Cruises’ latest ship Pacific Eden cruised into her namesake port – Eden – for the first time on Sunday.

The 55,820-tonne Pacific Eden turned heads when she docked in Eden’s harbour on Sunday morning with her 1500 guests spending the day exploring the picturesque New South Wales’ Sapphire Coast town on tours that visited the Killer Whale Museum as well as local oyster farms and the thriving coastal art scene. 

P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell said Pacific Eden received a warm welcome from the people of Eden.

“Pacific Eden is a beautiful ship and Eden is a beautiful coastal town – this maiden visit was a match made in heaven. In addition to the Sapphire Coast’s many attractions, Eden has the only deep water harbour between Sydney and Melbourne, making it an ideal cruise destination for our increasingly popular short break cruises and regional itineraries,” Mr Myrmell said.

“In this case, it was a particularly nice synergy for our ship which shares the town’s name – we’re sure the Eden community will embrace our Eden as one of their own as she becomes a familiar figure in the harbour in the coming months.”

The visit marks the first cruise call of the year for Eden with Pacific Eden set to make two more visits in the coming months (February 2 and March 13). 

The Eden call was the first stop on an eight-night roundtrip Sydney itinerary which visits only regional towns. After Eden, Pacific Eden is scheduled to make her maiden call to Mornington (January 12) and Portland (January 13) before calling at Kangaroo Island and returning to Sydney.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Aamara Club Cruises Set To Make A Stunning Australian  Debut Into Sydney.

Boutique brand makes maiden call to Sydney during historic first local season.

Boutique cruise brand Azamara Club Cruises, Australia’s newest cruise line, will make its maiden call to Sydney when the 686-passenger Azamara Quest arrives on Thursday 14 January 2016. 

“Since its inception in 2009 our destination-focussed cruise line has proved very popular with Australian cruisers in Asia and Europe – so we are delighted to finally welcome Azamara Club Cruises to Australian waters for the very first time.  Australia is now our third largest market for Azamara and we know that much more growth will follow Azamara Quest’s inaugural season down under,” said Adam Armstrong, regional commercial director.

“Azamara offers a cruise experience unlike any other brand sailing in the region. Guests sailing onboard Azamara Quest will have longer or more overnight stays in some of the most unique and interesting destinations around Australia and New Zealand. We also treat guest to a signature, complimentary AzAmazing Evening event during each cruise that showcases the destination. While onboard, guests receive exceptional and personal service and more included extras such as alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, coffees, gratuities and self-service laundry,” continued Adam. 

Azamara Quest will arrive in Sydney at 7am and stay in the harbour city overnight giving the guests onboard from 20 countries all day and night to explore the beautiful harbour city before disembarking on Friday 15 January concluding their 10-night Great Barrier Reef sailing from Cairns to Sydney. 

Azamara Quest will depart Sydney at 5pm Saturday 16 2016, giving guests on her 16-night Australia & New Zealand cruise an overnight in the city, before making her way to Auckland with calls at Melbourne, Port Arthur, Hobart, Milford Sound, Dunedin, Akaroa, Picton, Napier and Tauranga. The ship will then sail a return trip to Sydney from Auckland, before repositioning back to Asia. 

Azamara Club Cruises has also recently confirmed it will deploy a ship to the region for another two seasons, with Azamara Journey coming for the first time in 2017 and Azamara Quest returning in 2018, following extensive revitalisations that will see the ships undergo multi-million dollar facelifts.

About Azamara Club Cruises

With smaller ships that are able to go to places other cruise ships can’t, Azamara Club differentiates itself - and gains loyal fans - by making destinations the star of the show. It does this by offering longer stays, more overnight calls and night touring, which gives travellers the opportunity to truly experience a destination - taking in the sights, sounds and flavours of local cultures in every port. Azamara Club’s Insider Access takes guests behind the scenes at heritage estates, family farms, local shops and art galleries. Guests enjoy quiet conversations, shared stories and laughter with their hosts, gaining valuable insights and appreciation of local culture. 

Nights and Cool Places are exclusive after-dinner experiences in small, intimate groups, ranging from a harbour yacht experience to a private gallery tour with a famous local artist.  This year, Azamara Club has also launched its highly-anticipated Cruise Global, Eat Local program, featuring carefully curated dining experiences around the globe. Azamara does the sleuthing to lead guests to places the locals frequent, from a traditional family trattoria to a dim sum feast.

While destinations are the highlight, what’s onboard also keeps guests coming back for more. Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest guests receive exceptional and personal service and enjoy fine cuisine and boutique wines from around the world. More is included in each cruise – such as beverages, gratuities, self-service laundry, English Butler service for suite guests and shuttle transportation to city centres in ports, where available.  

Azamara Club also recently announced its new Exclusive Nights in Private Places program, offering an evening of luxurious private pampering, dining and sleeping under the stars on the private Thalassotherapy deck. This reservation-only experience for two includes private butler service, champagne and canapés, a beautiful buffet and seafood and meats cooked over a sizzling hot stone grill. A plush outdoor bed can be opened to the stars or enclosed with a roof panel and curtains.

Information supplied by: Azamara Club Cruises.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Sydney Cruise Ship Parking, Making Parking Cruisey !

We provide a sensible, affordable and reliable parking service for Sydney's cruise ship industry.

Sydney Cruise Ship Parking facilities are undercover and fully secure . Here at Sydney Cruise Ship Parking we deliver an on demand shuttle service that is a fast and reliable with friendly service.

We ensure that you always come first. So it does not matter at any time of the day when you need to be picked up or dropped off, we’ll always be there for you.

At Sydney Cruise Ship Parking we understand that travelling can be a stressful time. Our job is to make the parking side of things cruisey.

Just drive to our parking facility, which is located at: 130 Dunning Ave, Rosebery N.S.W. Leave your keys with one of our friendly staff and we will have you boarding in no time.

Once you return back to Sydney, give us a call when disembarking and one our drivers will be straight over to pick you up. It’s as easy as that.

To Book now please call: Jack on 02 93173631 or directly through our website on :

http://www.sydneycruiseshipparking.com.au

Information supplied by: Sydney Cruise Ship Parking.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Carnival Corporation to Build Four Cruise Ships as Part of Memo of Agreement With Fincantieri S.p.A.

Four new ships, to be built for Costa Asia, P&O Cruises Australia and Princess Cruises, will cater to growing cruise markets and enhance industry-leading fleet

World's largest travel and leisure company has 17 new ships scheduled for delivery between 2016 and 2020

The world's largest travel and leisure company, today announced that it has signed a memo of agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri S.p.A. to build four new cruise ships with final contracts expected to be executed in 2016. Two of the four new ships will be built for Costa Asia for deployment in China, and one will be built each for P&O Cruises Australia and Princess Cruises. With the new agreement, Carnival Corporation has 17 new ships scheduled to be delivered between 2016 and 2020.

The four new ships will be built by one of the world's largest cruise ship building companies, Fincantieri, at the company's shipyards in Monfalcone and Marghera, Italy, with deliveries expected in 2019 and 2020. The two new 135,500-ton ships for Costa Asia and one new ship for P&O Cruises Australia will carry 4,200 passengers.

Additionally, Princess Cruises' new 143,700-ton ship will carry 3,560 passengers and will be its fourth "Royal Princess" class vessel, featuring the successful design platform used on Royal Princess, Regal Princess and Majestic Princess scheduled for delivery in 2017. Each of the four new ships will be specifically designed and developed for the brand and guests it will serve, and support the company's overall goal of providing exceptional vacation experiences for its guests.

"We will deliver on our fleet enhancement plan with the construction of these four new, exciting ships that are consistent with our long-term strategy of measured capacity growth over time," said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation. "These ships will be great additions to our fleet that support our goal to exceed guest expectations and create great vacation memories for each guest onboard our ships. These strategic investments in new ships that wow our guests are an important part of our measured growth strategy, which includes replacing less efficient ships with newer, larger and more efficient vessels over a very specific period of time."

"The signing of this agreement happens during a real and beyond all expectations boom of the cruise sector," said Giuseppe Bono, CEO of Fincantieri. "This announcement confirms - once again - the effectiveness of our strategy: with these projects we ensure continuity and development for our company, and we also further strengthen our already consolidated partnership with the Carnival group."

The new Costa Cruises Asia ships will prominently feature the brand's "Italy's finest" experience, with the new ship design serving to enhance the overall onboard immersion Italy's unique style, hospitality, entertainment and culinary excellence. The new ship order will also strengthen Costa Asia's leadership and position in the region, as well as its commitment and confidence to continuously develop Asia Pacific and China to be one of the leading cruise markets in the world. In the past nine years, Costa Asia has created a multitude of industry firsts and has been widely recognized as the industry leader in the region, including being named as the first-ever Asia Best Cruise Line in the Asia Cruise Awards this year.

The new P&O Cruises Australia ship will join the leading cruise line's fleet that was recently expanded with the addition of Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden in November 2015 and will reach six total with the introduction of Pacific Explorer in 2017 to meet growing demand for cruises in Australia. Australia is one of the top performing cruise markets in the world, with an average annual passenger growth rate of 20 percent over the past decade. The new 4,200-passenger ship will have the largest passenger capacity from the line, with the next largest ship, Pacific Explorer, carrying 2,250 passengers, and will continue the brand's tradition of innovative ships that reflect modern Australia.

The new Princess Cruises ship will include the signature elements that have become synonymous with the Princess guest experience such as a soaring central atrium hub with multiple dining, entertainment and retail venues; Movies Under the Stars outdoor cinema experience, and 80 percent of all staterooms with balconies. The ship will also include some brand-new innovations to enhance the guest experience even further.

In March 2015 Carnival entered into a strategic partnership with Fincantieri under which these four ships have been developed. Specific features and amenities for the ships, along with deployment details, will be revealed in the coming months.

Additional information can be found on www.carnival.com, www.hollandamerica.com, www.princess.com, www.seabourn.com, www.aida.de, www.costacruise.coM, www.cunard.com, www.pocruises.com.au, www.pocruises.com and www.fathom.org.

Information supplied by: Carnival Corporation.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

AZAMARA CLUB CRUISES MAKES HISTORIC AUSTRALIAN DEBUT.

Boutique brand calls at first Australian port during historic first local season

Boutique cruise brand Azamara Club Cruises becomes Australia’s newest cruise line when the 686-passenger Azamara Quest docks in Darwin, its first ever Australian port, on Monday 28 December 2015.  

“Since its inception in 2009 our destination-focussed cruise line has proved very popular with Australian cruisers in Asia and Europe – so we are delighted to finally welcome Azamara Club Cruises to Australian waters for the very first time.  Australia is now our third largest market for Azamara and we know that much more growth will follow Azamara Quest’s inaugural season down under,” said Adam Armstrong, regional commercial director.

“Azamara offers a cruise experience unlike any other brand sailing in the region. Guests sailing onboard Azamara Quest will have longer or more overnight stays in some of the most unique and interesting destinations around Australia and New Zealand. We also treat guest to a signature, complimentary AzAmazing Evening event during each cruise that showcases the destination. While onboard, guests receive exceptional and personal service and more included extras such as alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, coffees, gratuities and self-service laundry,” continued Adam. 

Azamara Quest will arrive in Darwin at 6am and stay in the Top End capital until 10pm as part of her 16-night “Bali, Komodo & the Great Barrier Reef” sailing from Bali to Cairns over Christmas and New Year. Guests onboard, hailing from 20 countries around the world, will have the day to explore all the region has to offer as well as be treated to their AzAmazing Evening event during their call in Darwin, with an evening at Crocosaurus Cove. Guests will meet the world’s largest captive reptile collection, including nearly 200 saltwater crocodiles. The can’t-miss moment of the night is the Cage of Death. As a handful of the ship’s brave officers drop into a protected tank, giant crocodiles — some of the largest in captivity — approach for a little nose-to-nose time.

The unique event continues with a ceremonial demonstration by representatives of the Larrakia people. As the ceremony winds down, guests can hold some of the smaller reptiles that make their home at this incredible adventure centre. Azamara Quest departs Darwin at 10pm, continuing her voyage with calls at Thursday Island, Cooktown and Port Douglas. The ship will then sail three local itineraries as part of her maiden season from Cairns, Sydney and Auckland until February 2016. Azamara Quest will then return to Darwin on her way back to Asia on 25 February 2016.

Azamara Club Cruises has also recently confirmed it will deploy a ship to the region for another two seasons, with Azamara Journey coming for the first time in 2017 and Azamara Quest returning in 2018, following extensive revitalisations that will see the ships undergo multi-million dollar facelifts.

About Azamara Club Cruises

With smaller ships that are able to go to places other cruise ships can’t, Azamara Club differentiates itself - and gains loyal fans - by making destinations the star of the show. It does this by offering longer stays, more overnight calls and night touring, which gives travellers the opportunity to truly experience a destination - taking in the sights, sounds and flavours of local cultures in every port. Azamara Club’s Insider Access takes guests behind the scenes at heritage estates, family farms, local shops and art galleries. Guests enjoy quiet conversations, shared stories and laughter with their hosts, gaining valuable insights and appreciation of local culture. 

Nights and Cool Places are exclusive after-dinner experiences in small, intimate groups, ranging from a harbour yacht experience to a private gallery tour with a famous local artist.  This year, Azamara Club has also launched its highly-anticipated Cruise Global, Eat Local program, featuring carefully curated dining experiences around the globe. Azamara does the sleuthing to lead guests to places the locals frequent, from a traditional family trattoria to a dim sum feast.

While destinations are the highlight, what’s onboard also keeps guests coming back for more. Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest guests receive exceptional and personal service and enjoy fine cuisine and boutique wines from around the world. More is included in each cruise – such as beverages, gratuities, self-service laundry, English Butler service for suite guests and shuttle transportation to city centres in ports, where available.  

Azamara Club also recently announced its new Exclusive Nights in Private Places program, offering an evening of luxurious private pampering, dining and sleeping under the stars on the private Thalassotherapy deck. This reservation-only experience for two includes private butler service, champagne and canapés, a beautiful buffet and seafood and meats cooked over a sizzling hot stone grill. A plush outdoor bed can be opened to the stars or enclosed with a roof panel and curtains.

Information supplied by: Azamara Club Cruises.

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A Christmas Family Reunion For Carnival Legend’s Captain Gazzano.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Great Barrier Reef cruise is providing the perfect setting for Carnival Legend Captain Giussepe Gazzano’s reunion with his family, who have flown from Italy to join him onboard for Christmas. 

After many years as a seafarer, Captain Giussepe Gazzano knows what it is like to spend Christmas Day at sea, but this Christmas cruise is doubly special, as it times with a family get-together for his Brisbane-born wife, Anne Louise.

On Sunday, Anne Louise and children, Alessia aged nine and Giacomo, who turns eight on Boxing Day, were reunited with Captain Gazzano who waited on the wharf at Circular Quay for his family to arrive after their long flight.

“Being on a cruise at Christmas is amazing, but it’s even better having the family on board,” Captain Gazzano said.

Having previously worked for Carnival as a corporate trainer, Anne Louise is accustomed to the reality of seafarers having to spend considerable periods of time away from home.  

Carnival Legend’s Queensland Christmas cruise itinerary couldn’t have been more perfect for Anne Louise and her own family reunion.

“Being together for Christmas is wonderful but the fact that Carnival Legend is going to Brisbane where I can see my own family makes it all the more special,” Anne Louise said.

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

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Princess Cruises Delivers More Sports And The Latest News To Aussie Guests.

Princess Cruises has rolled out a new television channel on its Australasian based ships in a move which will bring more live sports action and the latest local news into guests’ rooms while they are at sea.

All Princess’ local ships – Sun Princess, Sea Princess, Dawn Princess, Diamond Princess and Golden Princess – plus Asian-based Sapphire Princess now offer Prime Australia, a live 24 hour broadcast of Australian news, sports and television shows.

The first dedicated Australian channel on Princess’ ships, Prime Australia will feature full season coverage of the Australian Football League and its pre-season NAB Cup as well as bringing A League action onboard, with games replayed at night in case guests miss the action live. 

The channel bolsters the cruise line’s existing Sports 24 channel which broadcasts the National Rugby League, rugby union, tennis and cricket matches in public spaces and onboard bars such as the new Legends bar on Sea Princess.  Also boasting LED screens, darts, a pool table, foosball and 14 varieties of beer including 10 local drops, Legends is the ultimate sports retreat at sea.

Prime Australia also offers regular news updates from ABC News as well as a selection of drama, current affairs and lifestyle programs from Foreign Correspondent to Redfern Now and Thai Street Food with David Thompson.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said he expected the new channel would be a hit with the cruise line’s Australian guests. 

“We know how passionate Aussies are about their sport and a lot of our guests like to stay up to date with current affairs while they holiday with us, so we’re thrilled we can now bring them all the action from two additional sporting codes and news from home whether they’re cruising around New Zealand, Asia, the South Pacific or the world,” Mr Allison said.

For more information and bookings see a licenced travel agent, call 13 24 88 or visit www.princess.com

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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The Grinch Is Back To Steal Christmas On Board Carnival Spirit And Legend, Or Is He ?? Lets Stop Him !

Guests enjoying a December cruise with Carnival Cruise Line are banding together to stop The Grinch from stealing Christmas with the legendary green character popping up on-board Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend as part of the cruise line’s Seuss at Sea program.

Decked out in his signature “Santy Claus” costume, the cantankerous curmudgeon has been up to his usual tricks, playfully disrupting onboard festivities and even cheekily stealing items from crew members throughout the ship.

To help The Grinch’s heart grow “three times” this Christmas, children on-board Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend have been creating their own “Grinchmas” ornaments and masks as well as completing a Grinch Good Deed Tracker.

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke also took some time on a recent Carnival Spirit cruise to do her bit in teaching The Grinch that “maybe Christmas means more than what comes from a store”.

During December cruises, The Grinch has become part of the cruise line’s Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast with The Cat in the Hat and Friends, while Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” will be shown onboard both ships on Christmas Day.

“Grinchmas” will be in full swing when Carnival’s Christmas cruises depart Sydney this weekend with Carnival Legend enjoying its first Queensland Christmas and Carnival Spirit cruising New Caledonia during the festive season.

Please see the attached photo of Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke with The Grinch on Carnival Spirit.

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

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Sture Myrmell Appointed as President of P&O Cruises Australia.

P&O Cruises Australia today announced the appointment of a full-time President, reflecting its massive growth in 2015 and its overwhelming success as Australia’s major cruise line.

Sture Myrmell, who is currently Senior Vice President P&O Cruises, will take responsibility for managing the brand’s operations, effective January 1, 2016.

Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry, who has been leading the day-to-day activities of P&O Cruises for the past eight years as well as driving strategy for the region’s brands, will become Carnival Australia’s Executive Chairman.

She will continue to have strategic oversight across the seven cruise lines that operate in this region under Carnival Australia’s umbrella, coordinating direction, management and advocacy on major issues.

Since joining Carnival Australia in 2007, Ms Sherry has reshaped the cruise category and driven the company’s success in the region from two locally-based full-time ships to nine across all the brands, including five P&O Cruises' ships.

Another five Carnival Australia ships are deployed in the region seasonally on top of the visiting international ships during the summer peak.

“I am very proud to hand the day-to-day operations of P&O Cruises to Sture, who has been so integral to the evolution of the brand since joining in 2007,” Ms Sherry said.

“Sture’s appointment is a vote of confidence in P&O Cruises and a demonstration of its overwhelming success as Australia’s major cruise brand and the backbone of the industry in this region.

“All of Carnival Corporation’s brands around the world have a standalone President, and Sture’s appointment is recognition of the value and power of P&O Cruises in Australia and New Zealand.

“Importantly, it is also wonderful acknowledgement of Sture’s leadership in transforming P&O Cruises into a product that is like no other in the marketplace and one that truly reflects modern Australia.

“In many ways, Sture’s success is a turning point for the industry because it cements the success of a home-grown brand.”

Mr Myrmell, who first started working onboard ships 22 years ago, has worked across almost every facet of the cruise business.  He is currently responsible for P&O Cruises’ Commercial, Guest Experience and Product Development areas.

“My appointment is the result of many people’s dedication and hard work over many years to get us to this point, and is proof that the brand has matured and holds its own in the global fleet,” Mr Myrmell said.

“I have enjoyed working alongside Ann over the past eight years and have learnt from the best.  Ann is at the forefront of industry advocacy and debate and is passionate about pushing hard to ensure cruising reaches its potential.

“I am delighted that with Ann stepping up to the role of Executive Chairman for Carnival Australia, I continue to have the opportunity to work in partnership with her.”

Mr Myrmell will report to Holland America Group CEO Stein Kruse.

The seven cruise lines under the Carnival Australia umbrella are P&O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Cunard, P&O Cruises World Cruising and Seabourn.

Information supplied by: P&O Cuises Australia.

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 New Princess Luxury Bed For Princess Cruises To Help Give Guests A Most Comfortable And Rejuvenating Sleep At Sea.

Princess Cruises has unveiled its new Princess Luxury Bed, designed to deliver the ultimate night of sleep at sea. 

The cruise line will roll out more than 44,000 of the new beds to every stateroom across its fleet by the end of 2018 following collaboration with experts in both the science and beauty of sleep.

Developed exclusively for Princess Cruises by the manufacturer of some of the most well-known and comfortable hotel beds in the world, the new Princess Luxury Bed will envelop guests in opulent style and pure comfort. 

The bed features a plush, five-centimetre thick mattress topper, a 22-centimetre, single-sided medium firm mattress for enhanced support, individually wrapped coils for less partner disturbance, a European-inspired duvet and 100 per cent luxurious Jacquard-woven cotton linens.

Princess worked closely with US sleep expert Dr Michael Breus to develop the bed, bridging his scientific knowledge of sleep with the latest technology in comfort to design the optimal mattress for guests to experience true relaxation.  Known as “The Sleep Doctor”, Dr Breus is the best-selling author of two sleep books.  

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the cruise line was committed to ensuring guests come back from their cruise holiday feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and renewed. 

“With our guests’ overall wellness in mind, we’ve invested in the design and development of our new Princess Luxury Bed with leading experts in both the science of sleep and design to offer the most comfortable and rejuvenating sleep at sea,” Mr Allison said.

Dr Breus said he was thrilled to share his expertise with Princess Cruises. 

“It’s important to remember that above all, sleep is a sensory experience and all five of your senses must be prepared for slumber in order for sleep to come easily and last all night long,” Dr Breus said.  

“I believe we’ve come up with some really unique aspects for not just the bed itself, but the entire experience that will allow guests to sleep really well.”

The new Princess Luxury Bed also features electronically tempered springs to enhance support and full foam casing to provide greater edge support and an increased sleeping surface.

Princess also enlisted the help of US TV design star Candice Olson to ensure the bed makes an immediate visual impact as guests enter their stateroom encouraging them to relax and unwind, with design features including fine bed linens and king-sized down pillows.

For more information please go to : www.princess.com/sleep 

Or watch the making of a Princess Luxury bed at Sea : Watch the making of The Princess Luxury Bed

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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Princess Cruises Scoops The Pool In Cruise Passenger Magazine Awards.

Princess Cruises has won an extraordinary five categories in this year’s Cruise Passenger Readers Choice Awards, including the top accolades of Best Ocean Cruise Line and Best Premium Cruise Line.

The fleet of awards for Princess also includes Best Cruise Line for Food, Best for Wellness/Spa and Best for Onboard Entertainment.

Commenting on the wins, Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said he was thrilled Princess had topped five of the seven cruise line categories it was eligible to enter.

“This is a fantastic result which demonstrates our commitment to helping our guests ‘come back new’ through our onboard dining, wellness and entertainment experiences across our fleet,” Mr Allison said.

“Since we first based a ship in Australia in 2002 we have tailored our product to local cruisers, from the entertainment to the onboard $A currency, so we’re very excited by these multiple award wins which endorse our approach.

“It’s great to see that we are clearly ticking the boxes in so many areas, particularly given our latest innovations such as our culinary partnership with chef Curtis Stone and partnership with Discovery International, offering interactive onboard programs and exclusive shore excursions.”   

Mr Allison said the cruise line was particularly honoured to be named as the best overall cruise line by Cruise Passenger readers.  

“As the destination experts, we take Australians to more places than any other cruise line, delivering holidays designed to enrich our guests, which is why we have the strongest repeat rate in the industry.  

“We’re thrilled that this award coincides with our biggest ever season of cruising in Australia, with local demand seeing our fleet increase to a record five ships – it’s really the perfect way to celebrate our 50th anniversary.”

Launched in 1996, Cruise Passenger magazine is a quarterly independent magazine published by Big Splash Media.

Information supplied by: Preincess Cruises.

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P&O Cruises Takes Australia’s Greatest Rivalry Between N.S.W Blues And Queensland's Maroons To Sea With State Of Origin Kicking Off In 2016.

P&O Cruises has announced it will add some muscle to its sports line up next year, taking guests to the biggest event on the footy calendar – State of Origin – for the first time.

Priced from $799* per person, the inaugural Origin cruise will depart Brisbane on May 28, 2016, and will feature an overnight stay in Sydney for the series opener on June 1 as well as calls to Moreton Island and Newcastle. The seven-night Pacific Dawn cruise includes a bronze State of Origin ticket for each guest plus transfers to and from ANZ Stadium, with the option to upgrade seats for a nominal fee.

The action will begin from the moment guests step onboard with former Origin players joining the cruise, past games to be shown onboard and the chance to have a photo taken with a replica State of Origin trophy.

The addition of the Origin cruise broadens P&O’s partnership with the NRL. P&O Cruises became the first cruise line to screen live NRL games at sea in 2012 and the cruise line will offer its first cruise to the NRL Auckland Nines in January 2016. 

As part of its main event program, P&O also offers cruises to the Australian Open and Melbourne Cup. 

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said the cruise line’s expansion to a five-ship fleet had allowed it to bolster its event offering to include one of the biggest fixtures on the local sporting calendar.

“Whether or not the Maroons take home the Origin trophy in 2016, this cruise is a big win for Queensland footy fans. As well as transport, accommodation, food and entertainment, guests on the inaugural State of Origin cruise will be getting some of the hottest tickets in town included as part of their cruise fare - it’s seriously great value,” Mr Myrmell said.

“Pacific Dawn is Queensland’s ship so we expect to see a lot of Maroons fans coming onboard and cheering on their team from Brisbane to Sydney and back.” 

The Origin cruise is included in the cruise line’s latest program, which is on sale now. 

For more information visit www.pocruises.com.au , or see a licensed travel agent.

*Price is per person quad share. Subject to availability, conditions apply.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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