Princess Cruises To Sweeten Chocolate Journeys Partnership

Princess Cruises’ delicious partnership with internationally acclaimed master chocolatier and pastry designer Norman Love is set to expand, allowing guests to experience even more mouthwatering creations on their cruise.

Following the overwhelming success of the cruise line’s signature Chocolate Journeys experience, Princess has again partnered with Chef Love to create a series of delicious new chocolate products, including breakfast treats and a premium chocolate cocktail.

The indulgent offerings will be rolled out across the fleet from November, including on Princess’ Australian-based ships.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the partnership with Chef Love had proven very popular with travellers, which was no surprise given the results of a recent Princess Cruises’ survey showing that 40 per cent of Australians eat more chocolate while on holiday.

“Australians are well known for their love of good chocolate – in fact according to our survey almost 60 per cent of Australians have chocolate cravings and more than 50 per cent eat chocolate when they are happy – so we’re confident the latest offerings will go down a treat with our guests as they enjoy their holidays,” Mr Allison said.

Trained in France and a former executive pastry chef of the Ritz-Carlton, Chef Love has been recognised as one of the top 10 Chocolatiers in North America by Dessert Magazine. 

His new sweet experiences include:

* New Premium Chocolate Cocktail – Designed by Chef Love, a new premium chocolate cocktail option will be available on the main dining room dessert menu. 

* Afternoon Tea – During Princess’ popular afternoon tea, guests will now be treated to one of seven yummy pastries and six cakes designed by Chef Love, including Baked Chocolate Tart with Lemon Chantilly, Chocolate Raspberry Clafoutis and Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake.

* Chocolate Soufflé – Available on select evenings, the main dining room desserts will feature a new signature Chocolate Soufflé with white chocolate sauce.

* Chocolate Cookie – Chef Love has created two tasty new premium chocolate cookies that will be available in select locations around the ship including the International Café.

* International Café Treats – A complimentary chocolate treat designed by Chef Love will be featured daily in the International Café, with six new pastries created such as a Chocolate Berry Tartlet with Coconut Mousse and Milk Chocolate Chantilly Éclairs.

* Breakfast Treats – Savoury breakfast items designed by Chef Love and featuring touches of premium chocolate will be offered each morning in the Horizon Court.

* Evening Treats – Each evening, one of 12 delicious new chocolate cakes from Chef Love will be offered in the Horizon Court. Cakes include a White Chocolate and Lemon Tart and an Almond Chocolate Coffee Cake.

The delectable new chocolate items will be in addition to the chocolate desserts, drinks, spa treatments, cooking demonstrations, chocolate and wine pairing, petit fours and formal night treats already offered onboard.

For more information about Princess’ Chocolate Journeys visit www.chocolatejourneys.com or for more information about Princess Cruises visit www.princess.com

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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 Record Number Of Cruise Ships Sailing Down Under This Summer 

Australians’ passion for cruising has fuelled the nation’s biggest ever summer cruise season, with a record flotilla of cruise ships sailing Down Under over the coming months – including many newcomers to our shores.

According to peak cruise industry body Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia, 38 ships from its member cruise lines will sail in Australian waters this summer, with an unprecedented eight ships making their maiden visits to Australia.  Over the 2014-15 summer cruise period, 36 CLIA member cruise ships visited Australia, including three ships making their inaugural visit.

CLIA Australasia Commercial Director Brett Jardine said the growth in maiden ship visits was another clear indicator of the surging popularity of cruising.  

“Cruise lines around the world are looking for new destinations and new homeports for their ships – and Australia is hot property right now,” Mr Jardine said.  “Not only do we have fantastic ports to visit and great weather, we also have a population that can’t wait to cruise, and that’s encouraging more cruise lines to send more ships our way.” 

Mr Jardine said the eight ships making their maiden visits this summer ranged from superliners to boutique-sized ships, providing a wide range of cruise experiences.

“The huge range of ships now calling to Australia just illustrates that cruising is popular across all age groups and holidaymaker types – there really is a cruise ship for everyone.”

Mr Jardine said more than one million Australians took a cruise in 2014, with Australia leading the world in terms of growth in cruise passenger numbers and market penetration.

CLIA’s new cruise season statistics, which coincide with the start of CLIA’s fourth national Cruise Week promotion, show that there will be 38 member cruise line ships cruising local waters over the peak summer cruise season which runs from the end of September through to April 30, 2016.  Between them, the ships will make more than 800 calls to Australian ports.

The cruise season will kick off with the arrival of Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess in Sydney on September 29, with the ship based in Sydney for a season of 14 cruises over summer.  

The bumper 2015-16 season will see Azamara Club Cruises make its first ever call to Australia with its ship Azamara Quest arriving in local waters in January 2016.  Other ships making their Australian debut during the season include Costa Cruises’ Costa Luminosa, Holland America Line’s Noordam, P&O Cruises’ Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, Ponant’s Le Soleal, Princess Cruises’ Golden Princess and Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas.

Across the country there will be an impressive 40 maiden port calls by cruise lines to a range of cities and regional towns from Lizard Island, Gladstone and Port Douglas in the north to Burnie and Hobart in the south, helping to spread the economic benefits of cruising nationwide.

Mr Jardine said 21 ships would make a total of 330 roundtrip cruises from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Fremantle over the 2015-16 summer, with these cruises expected to generate more than $300 million for the economy through passenger and crew spending, provedoring and associated port charges. 

 The figures are a significant increase on last year’s 253 roundtrip cruises.

The 38 ships sailing local waters this summer include nine which are based in Australia year round, another 12 which will be deployed for all or part of the summer cruise season and 17 ships which will visit Australia. Between them they will carry hundreds of thousands of Australian and international tourists.

Mr Jardine said highlights of the upcoming cruise season included P&O Cruises’ five-ship spectacular in Sydney on November 25, the deployment of Princess Cruises’ Golden Princess to Melbourne where it will take the mantle as the largest ship ever to be based in Victoria and Royal Caribbean’s first Brisbane season with Legend of the Seas sailing from the Queensland capital.

CLIA’s Australia-wide consumer promotion Cruise Week will run from September 7-14 ( www.cruiseweek.org ]

Information supplied by: Cruise Lines International Association Of Australasia. [ CLIA ]

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Cunard Announces Special Queen Mary 2 Voyages From Sydney And Melbourne And A Cruise Up The Amazon In 2017

Cunard has announced its majestic flagship Queen Mary 2 will sail on two historic cruises from Sydney and Melbourne in 2017, giving Australians an opportunity to experience the liner’s legendary style as she makes her maiden visits to Tasmania and South Australia’s Kangaroo Island.

Releasing details of its latest world voyage program, Cunard revealed that Queen Victoria will also make history in 2017, claiming the title of the largest ship ever to sail on the mighty Amazon River, with a five-night cruise on the famous waterway as part of her global circumnavigation.

Cunard’s trio of Queens will all visit Australia during their 2017 world cruises, with Queen Mary 2 set to embark on two regional jaunts in Australian waters.  

Sailing on her first ever roundtrip cruise from Melbourne on February 18, 2017, Queen Mary 2 will make her inaugural call to Kangaroo Island on February 20 before returning to the Victorian capital. Fares for the four-day cruise start from $1169* per person double occupancy.

The 151,400-tonne liner will also offer a special five-night roundtrip cruise from Sydney to Tasmania, departing February 25, 2017, and featuring her inaugural calls to Port Arthur on February 27 and Hobart on February 28, with fares from $1469* per person double occupancy.

The two cruises are part of a 118-night world voyage which will include Queen Mary 2’s maiden call to Busselton in Western Australia on February 13, 2017, with guests able to explore the famous Margaret River wine region.

As she sails the world’s oceans, calling at 38 ports in 22 countries, Queen Mary 2 will undertake a 14-night roundtrip cruise from Hong Kong visiting Taiwan, China, South Korea and Japan, as well as a seven-night roundtrip cruise from Shanghai visiting Korea and Japan.

Meanwhile, Queen Victoria will make a splash in New Zealand during her 2017 world tour with a special voyage from Auckland to Wellington taking in Australia’s east coast and New Zealand’s South Island.  

Departing Auckland on March 6, 2017, the cruise will visit the Bay of Islands and overnight in Sydney before sailing to Melbourne. After crossing the Tasman, Queen Victoria will cruise the picturesque waters of Fiordland National Park then call at Dunedin and Akaroa before reaching Wellington. Fares on the 13-night cruise start from $3819* per person double occupancy.

The New Zealand loop will be a feature of Queen Victoria’s 120-night round world voyage, which will also see her spend five days cruising South America’s famous Amazon River and making maiden visits to Manaus and Santarem in Brazil. The ship’s 64-night cruise from Southampton to Sydney via South America is priced from $17,429* per person double occupancy.

Queen Elizabeth will also be making history on her world voyage with a maiden call to Papua New Guinea as part of her 120-night circumnavigation.  The gracious 2000-guest liner will visit the beautiful waters of Alotau in Papua New Guinea on her way north to Japan from Sydney. 

For the first time, Cunard’s world voyage program also includes a complimentary flight credit for guests who book a sailing from Southampton and New York to any Australia or New Zealand port.  Under the new offer, guests who book an inside, ocean view of balcony stateroom will enjoy a complimentary one-way economy flight while passengers who book a Princess Grill or Queens Grill suite will enjoy a complimentary one-way business class flight.

Cunard’s 2017 World Voyage program will be on sale from September 11. For more details on Cunard visit www.cunard.com, phone 132 441 or see a licensed travel agent.

*subject to availability, conditions apply

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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Photo's credit: Brian Gaskin, Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia.

Princess Cruises Takes Australians To The Land Of The Midnight Sun

Holidaymakers will be able to escape winter and head to the Land of the Midnight Sun in 2017, when Princess Cruises’ Sea Princess embarks on the first ever cruise from Australia to visit the Arctic Circle.

In keeping with Princess Cruises’ focus on new destinations and experiences for its guests, the history-making itinerary will take guests to four ports in the Nordic region and Arctic Circle as part of a 104-night global circumnavigation.

Announcing details today, Princess Cruises said Sea Princess would visit 39 ports in 26 countries after setting sail from Sydney on May 20, 2017. Cruising via the Middle East to Europe and the United Kingdom, Sea Princess will make memorable calls to the Lofoten Islands (Gravdal), Tromso, Honningsvag and Akureyri in the Arctic Circle before visiting North and South America and the islands of the Pacific on her return to Australia.

Roundtrip departures are available from Sydney, Fremantle and Auckland with fares priced from $20,999 for the full world cruise.

The cruise line has also launched the itinerary for its second 2017 world cruise, a 75-night Circle Pacific itinerary which for the first time will be offered on a Grand-class Princess ship, the magnificent Golden Princess.

Sailing from Sydney on May 19, 2017, the itinerary will take holidaymakers to China and Japan before heading north to the waters of Alaska.  For a truly memorable experience, guests will enjoy an overnight stay in Vancouver on Canada Day to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the confederation before heading to San Francisco for spectacular Fourth of July fireworks over the Golden Gate Bridge. Golden Princess then sails to Los Angeles and San Diego before returning to local waters via Hawaii and Tahiti. 

Roundtrip options are available from both Sydney and Brisbane with fares from $14,299 per person twin share.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the cruise line prided itself on offering exciting longer itineraries to its guests.

“2017 will mark 10 years since our first world cruise from Australia and we’re thrilled to be able to take our guests to new destinations in the Arctic Circle on this itinerary. These voyages provide a wonderful way to travel the globe in comfort while experiencing different lands and cultures  - and without the need to spend foreign currency, as shore excursions and onboard services are all in Australian dollars,” Mr Allison said.

The new 2017 itineraries are in addition to the previously announced 84-night roundtrip South America cruise from Australia on Sea Princess departing January 2017.

Other highlights of the 2017 winter program include:

* A 35-night voyage to Hawaii and Tahiti on Golden Princess roundtrip from Sydney, Brisbane or Auckland. Departing August 2, 2017, the cruise is priced from $5899 per person twin share.

* 10-night voyages to the South Pacific from Brisbane on Sun Princess, featuring Curtis Stone’s new restaurant SHARE, with fares from $1499 per person twin share.

* Two voyages from Fremantle, direct to South East Asia with a 15-night Indonesia and 12-night Treasures of Asia voyage, priced at $2299 and $1999 respectively per person twin share.

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

*Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. 

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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P&O Cruises Celebrates 20 Years Of Cruising With Lifou Island Community  

P&O Cruises has joined with the local community on the island of Lifou to celebrate 20 years of cruising to the picturesque Loyalty Islands in the South Pacific. 

Visiting P&O Cruises’ Pacific Jewel Captain Roger Bilson and his senior officers were guests at a special ceremony and community celebration that reflected on cruising’s contribution to the island’s economy and to the development of cultural tourism.   

P&O Cruises’ visits to Lifou began in July 1995 when its flagship Fairstar made the first of five calls that year. By 2000, Lifou was receiving 27 annual cruise ship calls and by 2010 this number had increased to 62. 

During 2015 more than 100 cruise ships will visit the island, and the Lifou community is keen to welcome more visitors.

Lifou Grand Chief Pascal Sihaze and various customary members have long recognised cruise ship visits as making a positive, sustainable contribution to the local economy and to the island’s cultural heritage. 

They identified the concept as ‘cultural tourism’ based on human contact and cultural exchanges in which the local community could share traditional knowledge, art and the Kanak culture with visitors. They also saw that sharing their traditions and culture would help the island’s young people to retain features of their cultural heritage through dance, traditional fishing and art. 

Carnival Australia Destinations Director Michael Mihajlov said the cruise line valued the bonds it had developed with the Wetr community over so many years. 

“Lifou is a very special place, and we have worked closely with the community to ensure that cruise tourism to the island is sustainable as the number of visitors continues to grow,” Mr Mihajlov said.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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  Royal Caribbean Cruises Into Port Kembla Harbour

Wollongong’s Port Kembla Harbour will welcome its first cruise ship in 2016 when Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas ties up dockside.

The 293m long megaliner will bring more than 2400 people to the Illawarra in October 2016 as part of a seven night East Coast and Tasmania cruise.

The ship will spend a day in port, allowing tourists from Australia and around the world to explore the Illawarra’s beaches, city, towns and attractions through day trips, courtesy buses and planned activity options.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Regional Vice President Gavin Smith says the visit is the first step in investigating an ongoing relationship between the cruise line and the Illawarra.

“I'm thrilled to announce we will be bringing one of the largest and most feature-packed megaliners in Australian waters to the South Coast of NSW, when Port Kembla becomes the newest destination for Radiance of the Seas,” he said. 

“With capacity for more than 2400 guests, in a single day she'll deliver an economic injection of more than $890,000 to local operators in the region. 

“As the appetite for cruising continues to grow, expanding our offering for our many international and domestic guests is the key to our continued success. 

“Including Port Kembla on our itineraries will provide our guests the opportunity to sample all that Wollongong and the South Coast has to offer. At the same time, it will give us the chance to investigate Port Kembla as an alternative home port, as an overflow to congestion in Sydney Harbour.”

Destination Wollongong board member Cr Leigh Colacino revealed the venture has been more than two years in the making.

“I am excited to announce that Royal Caribbean ships will soon become a regular sight at Port Kembla and I will be standing dockside to welcome the Radiance of the Seas when she makes her first visit to Wollongong,” he said.

“This is a wonderful outcome for the Illawarra and regional tourism, but also makes business sense for Royal Caribbean to make use of one of the most capable ports on the east coast of Australia.

“This commitment from Royal Caribbean is also a wonderful endorsement of the new operators of Port Kembla and their commitment to the economy of the Illawarra.

“Royal Caribbean understands the value of Port Kembla and Wollongong for tourism with its proximity to the Sydney CBD and airport, and the varied attractions of the region whether they are the vibrant nightlife, shopping and dining precincts, the beaches, adventure activities, the wineries of the South Coast and Southern Highlands or simply the outstanding natural attraction of the Illawarra escarpment.

“It has been rewarding to work with Gavin Smith, Regional Vice President of Royal Caribbean, over the past two and a half years in making what seemed to many as nothing more than a dream, a reality to our region.”

Destination Wollongong General Manager Mark Sleigh says the agreement with Royal Caribbean is an amazing opportunity for the Illawarra which will have immediate economic benefits and ongoing tourism advantages.

“It is terrific that one of the world’s leading tourism operators has seen the potential of Wollongong as a genuine, world-class tourist destination,” he said.

“Cruising is a booming tourism industry in Australia and the visit by the Radiance of the Seas will bring an influx of visitors to our shores and allow us to show off Wollongong and the South Coast to a whole new audience across the world.”

While the inaugural visit by the Radiance of the Seas is a momentous occasion for the region, the sight of cruise ships off the coast could become more common in the future.

Radiance of the Seas – Vital stats and cool facts

* Maiden Voyage - April 7, 2001

* Refurbished - June, 2011

* Cruising speed - 25 knots

* Length - 293m

* Width -  32m

* Draft - 8.5m

* Capacity - 2466 (total)

* Crew - 894 (international)

* Facilities - Rock-climbing wall, mini golf course, jogging track, outdoor movie screen, half basketball court, three pools, solarium, three whirlpools, beauty salon, day spa and fitness centre, video arcade, boutiques, art gallery, nine-storey central atrium,  library, theatre and casino.

* At 293 metres in length, laid end to end, she would be taller than Sydney Tower's glass viewing platform Skywalk (268m high)

*  At a cost of US$19 million , she was revitalised from bow to stern in 2011

*  She boasts 10 dining options, ranging from hot dogs on the deck and cafes to a trendy canteen and formal fine dining restaurants.

*  14 bars, clubs and lounges

*  1071 staterooms can hold 2466 guests in total (2143 at double capacity)

*  Her theatre holds 868 - The IMB Theatre at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre holds 515

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

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Carnival Spirit En Route Back To Australia For Summer Of Fun

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Carnival Cruise Line’s Aussie superliner Carnival Spirit has sailed from dry dock in Singapore boasting a ship load of exciting new features as it prepares for its fourth year of cruising down under.

When the ship returns to Sydney on September 14, it will offer 25 bars, lounges and dining options following the addition of seven new bars and restaurants during the multi-million dollar refit.

This summer Australian cruisers will be able to try the Boomerang burger at Californian celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s new onboard burger joint, a cocktail prescribed for cruising at Alchemy Bar, some tropical poolside concoctions at Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Rum Bar, an authentic Mexican-style beach cantina experience at the BlueIguana Cantina and Tequila Bar as well as some lively new entertainment offerings including the ship’s top deck Dive-In Movies.

Carnival Spirit will also cruise back to Australia with some of sister ship Carnival Legend’s tried and tested favourites including RedFrog Pub, Bonsai Sushi, the Cherry on Top lolly shop and Hasbro the Game Show.

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the crew were excited to show off Carnival Spirit’s new features.

“We didn’t think it was possible but with these new entertainment and dining offerings, Carnival Spirit has just got a whole lot more fun. We think our guests will love all the new options onboard - we can’t wait to get back to Australia,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

Experience Carnival Spirit's fun new features during an 11-night roundtrip sailing departing Sydney on March 27, 2016, and including ports in New Caledonia and Vanuatu, from $1050* per person twin share with up to $200 onboard credit per cabin.

For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see a travel agent or visit www.carnival.com.au/promotional/all-4-fun-sale

*subject to availability, conditions apply

Photos credit Sembcorp Marine Admiralty Yard

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Lines, Australia.

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P&O Cruises’ Parties Swing To A Twenties Tune 

P&O Cruises has launched its latest Party concept – a new Gatsby evening which is set to send guests into a flap as it swings into action across the fleet this month. 

As part of the cruise line’s revamped entertainment line-up, the new Gatsby evenings take guests back in time to the roaring Twenties with all the extravagance of the era including a DJ, live music and a specially crafted menu of cocktails featuring a Manhattan, Gin Gimlet and Kir Royal. 

Art deco theming includes a show-stopping chandelier, feather boas and even a shoeshine boy.

Elevating the existing cocktail night to a new level, the party will form part of a broader Gatsby-themed evening which starts with the cruise line’s classic show The Velvet Rope and ends with the glam after-party in the atrium with guests encouraged to frock up in flapper dresses and vintage suits.

Twenties dance lessons and workshops to make Gatsby-style headpieces are held in the lead up to the party and accessories including bow ties, hats and feather boas are available onboard.

One of four new P&O party concepts, the Gatsby evening joins the already popular ‘Bianco, the P&O White Party’, with retro Back to School nights and afternoon Vegas pool parties also launching across the fleet later this month.

After the debut of the first Gatsby party on Pacific Pearl last week, P&O Cruises Director of Entertainment Brett Annable said the glitz and glamour of the era ensured the evening was a roaring success.

“As we continue to move away from traditional themed cruise nights, our guests have really embraced the new P&O parties. With the extravagant chandelier, the art deco theming and everyone dressed in the spirit of the era, it’s so much more than just another night at sea – it’s a special event. Along with Bianco, the Gatsby party is sure to become one of the most popular nights onboard our ships,” Mr Annable said. 

Every P&O cruise of three nights or more will feature a Gatsby party.

For more information visit www.pocruises.com.au

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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P&O Adds Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines To Main Event Line Up

Rugby league fans will be cruising to next year’s Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines under a new partnership between the National Rugby League, P&O Cruises and Sportsnet Holidays.

To give P&O Cruises’ guests a taste of The Greatest Weekend of Rugby League, Sportsnet Holidays has created an exclusive eight-night package which will see NRL fans depart Sydney on Pacific Pearl on January 31, 2016, and cruise to Auckland for four nights before spending an extra four nights in Auckland to attend the league competition at Eden Park.

Priced from $1765* per person, the Sportsnet Holidays package includes a return flight from Auckland to Sydney, a full weekend pass to the Nines on February 6 and 7, 2016, and a Friday night kick off function including dinner, drinks, and NRL guests. 

The special voyage to the Nines boosts P&O Cruises’ star-studded main event line up which already includes major international sporting events the Melbourne Cup and Australian Open Tennis.

“Like most Aussies, our guests are massive sports fans and we already show rugby league on the big screen on the top deck of P&O Cruises’ ships each week during the season,” P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said.

“For many Australians this will be a dream holiday – a few days cruising across the Tasman plus some great rugby league in the lead-up to the start of the 2016 NRL season.”

Mr Myrmell said the partnership would put the NRL alongside the country’s biggest sporting events as a cruise event partner.  

About 8000 people will cruise to the Emirates Melbourne Cup this year, with P&O Cruises also sailing to the Australian Open Tennis in January.

NRL Head of Football Todd Greenberg said the Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines was one of the most popular events on the rugby league calendar.

“Although only two years old, the Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines has been an outstanding success for the NRL and the city of Auckland,” Mr Greenberg said.

“The event already attracts thousands of people from Australia and other nations, and this partnership with P&O Cruises demonstrates that it is a truly international event.

“The NRL is always looking for exciting opportunities to partner with the private sector and showcase what a fantastic game we have, which is why we are excited about joining with P&O Cruises.”

For more information or to book visit: http://www.pocruises.com.au/auckland-nines

*Subject to availability, terms and conditions apply. Sportsnet Holidays is the Exclusive Official Travel Agent of the event.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Princess Cruises Screens First Travelling Film Festival At Sea

Princess Cruises has raised the curtains on details of the first Travelling Film Festival at Sea, with guests on Diamond Princess set to enjoy a New Zealand movie theme as the ship crosses the Tasman next February. 

As part of the cruise line’s partnership with Sydney Film Festival, six contemporary New Zealand films will set the scene for the festival, which will take place as Diamond Princess sails from Sydney to Auckland as part of a 12-night roundtrip cruise to New Zealand.

Top bill on the inaugural event will be acclaimed New Zealand producer Bridget Ikin, a special guest on the cruise, who has selected the films for the Festival. Ms Ikin will also present two of her own films, the award-winning 1990 classic, Angel at My Table, directed by Jane Campion, as well as new film Sherpa, which had its World Premiere at the 2015 Sydney Film Festival. Bridget will also host an informative Q&A session for guests at the screenings of her films. 

Guests will also enjoy four more New Zealand produced titles as part of the Festival including coming-of-age comedy-drama Boy (2010), Samoan feature film The Orator (O Le Tulafale)(2012), drama feature Dark Horse (2011) and the multi-award winning masterpiece, The Piano (1993), also directed by Jane Campion. 

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said he expected the first Travelling Film Festival at Sea to be a box-office hit with guests.

“We’re thrilled to be screening such a terrific line-up of local films – it’s going to be a unique opportunity for holidaymakers to enjoy a very special taste of New Zealand as they travel across the Tasman,” Mr Allison said.   

The Travelling Festival at Sea will feature on Diamond Princess over the first four days of her 12-night roundtrip cruise departing Sydney for New Zealand on February 4, 2016. Fares for the voyage start from $1599 per person twin share, with ports of call including Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington, Akaroa, Dunedin and scenic cruising through the stunning waters of Fiordland National Park. For more information, visit a licensed travel agent, call 13 24 88, or visit www.princess.com

*Subject to availability, conditions apply

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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Princess Cruises Introduces Specialty Restaurant ‘SHARE by Curtis Stone’

Princess Cruises has unveiled details of SHARE by Curtis Stone, the Australian chef’s first restaurant at sea, which will arrive in local waters early next year. 

Sun Princess will be the first Australian-based Princess ship to feature SHARE, with the restaurant opening onboard in April 2016, following its debut on Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess in the northern hemisphere this December and its January launch on Coral Princess cruising the Panama Canal.

SHARE offers an exclusive specialty dining experience for guests with a menu of signature dishes imagined for sharing, in an environment designed for conversing and creating memories.  Designed to create a friendly atmosphere, the restaurant will feature a signature shared communal table, low-backed leather banquettes and decorative curios from Curtis’ collection.

The restaurant is a key feature of Princess Cruises’ previously announced exclusive partnership with Curtis which adds to the line’s “come back new” brand promise, designed to elevate the onboard guest experience by introducing new culinary offerings dedicated to fresh, flavourful cuisine aboard all ships. 

As part of the partnership, “Crafted by Curtis” menu items will also be offered in the main dining rooms of Princess’ ships, debuting this spring on Golden Princess, which will be based in Australia from October for an extended summer season. 

The “Crafted by Curtis” menu items will roll out fleet-wide through the end of 2015, while Curtis Stone’s Chef’s Table experience will debut in early 2016. 

Announcing details of the new restaurant today, Princess Cruises said the SHARE dining experience would encourage connecting with family, friends and other cruisers by offering intriguing dishes served family style. 

Designed by Curtis, the menu features dishes such as a Charcuterie starter course; Butter Roasted Lobster with Caramelised Endive and Endive Foam; Twice Cooked Duck Leg with Fennel, Bacon jus and Parmesan Crumb; Tagliatelle with Roasted Alaskan Crab, Chili and Parsley; and Dark Chocolate Cremeux with Toasted Hazelnut Feuilletine and Burnt Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. 

Working closely with Curtis and Princess Cruises, world-renowned hospitality designer Jeffrey Beers International has developed a dining ambiance that is a reflection of Curtis’ creative vision and stems from his own childhood mealtime experiences, which were as much about family, community and connection as they were about the food itself. 

By creating a restaurant with a comfortable, homey atmosphere, the design allows for the important things in life to take centre stage – people, and the activity of creating shared moments with one another over a delicious meal. 

A signature feature of SHARE is a communal table designed to encourage the sharing of a freshly prepared meal in the company of friends and family. Hand blown glass pendants etched with some of Curtis’ favourite recipes cast an intimate glow and create a warm and celebratory experience. Elements not often seen in cruise ship restaurant interiors add to the friendly atmosphere – low-backed banquettes, beautifully upholstered in luxe Chesterfield tufted leather and decorative curios from Curtis’ own collection including photographs and travel souvenirs make guests feel even more at home. 

“We’re honoured that Princess Cruises is the home of Curtis Stone’s first restaurant at sea,” Princess Cruises President Jan Swartz said.  

“We know our guests will enjoy the menu Chef Stone has created for SHARE and we’re sure they will also feel right at home dining in his new restaurant, just like we hope they always feel on a Princess cruise vacation. SHARE is an exciting new enhancement adding to our guest experience intended to fulfill our ‘come back new’ brand promise.”

Commenting on his new restaurant, Curtis said it was only natural that his first restaurant at sea was named SHARE, as sharing food family-style with family and good friends was the most enjoyable way to eat.

“I love the process of passing plates amongst each other and creating meaningful connections through the food and conversation,” Curtis said.

“I’ve worked feverishly to create elegant, tasty dishes that I’m really proud to serve in a beautiful and relaxed environment, and I’m excited that SHARE is set to become a special part of people’s holiday memories and experience at sea.”

For more information about the partnership, visit www.princess.com/curtis-stone

For information about Princess Cruises visit www.princess.com, call 13 24 88 or visit a licensed travel agent. 

About Curtis Stone:

Internationally known, Chef Stone began his cooking career at the age of 18 in his homeland of Australia and later honed his skills at Michelin-starred restaurants in London. He has appeared on a number of top-rated cooking programs, most recently starring as a mentor on Food Network’s All-Star Academy and is host of the Network’s brand-new show Beach Eats, which premiered August 12. His first solo restaurant, Maude, opened in Beverly Hills, Calif. in 2014 to rave reviews from respected outlets such as Time, Travel + Leisure, Eater LA, Los Angeles Magazine, Angeleno and more. Curtis is also a New York Times bestselling author, having written six cookbooks, his most recent Good Food, Good Life.  www.curtisstone.com 

About Jeffrey Beers International: 

JBI is a full-service design studio with an award-winning portfolio of projects spanning a variety of categories. Founded by Jeffrey Beers in 1986, JBI represents the culmination of its founder’s rich artistic and cultural background, sophisticated urban sensibilities, standout design skills, and passion for hospitality. The result is a dynamic and diverse company whose team consists of architects, interior designers, painters, sculptors and graphic designers in order to bring a mix of unique perspectives to every project. www.jeffreybeers.com

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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Massimo Mele On The Menu For Carnival Tasmania Cruises  

Carnival Cruise Line has made cruising to the gourmet destination of Tasmania even more appetising, with news that award-winning chef Massimo Mele will be cooking up a feast onboard three cruises to the Apple Isle next year.

Guests on the five-night cruises will have the chance to enjoy an exclusive onboard cooking demonstration and lunch with Massimo  or attend one his special cooking masterclasses as they sail to Tasmania.

As an added treat, holidaymakers on Carnival Spirit’s January 24 cruise to Tasmania will also have the option of enjoying a memorable Australia Day lunch in Hobart hosted by Massimo and his mother, Maria.

Born in Tasmania, Massimo is a past winner of the People’s Choice Award in the Lexus Young Chef of the Year competition and has appeared on a number of television cooking programs in Australia. Having headed up the superb modern Italian restaurant La Scala on Jersey in Sydney, Massimo is now planning an exciting new venture for 2016 while focusing on creating unique food events around Australia.

Announcing Massimo’s appearance on the three Tasmanian cruises, Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the chef’s presence would add even more flavour to the itineraries.

“Our cruises to Tasmania have been a real winner with families and couples alike so we’re thrilled to be bringing the destination onboard by partnering with Massimo to celebrate the island’s renowned fresh local seafood and produce,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

Massimo said he was looking forward to the cruises to his birthplace.

“Tasmania’s a beautiful place to visit and it offers some sensational food and wine so I can’t wait to share my cooking and my knowledge of the local produce on these three cruises,” Massimo said. 

Guests on the cruises will spend a day in Hobart, where they can explore the city’s historic Battery Point district, visit the amazing Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) and relax by the waterfront as they sample some of Tasmania’s famous seafood as well as its fine wines and beer.   The cruises will also take travellers to the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site, the best-preserved convict settlement in Australia. 

Massimo Mele will be onboard Carnival Spirit’s January 24 and January 29, 2016 cruises to Tasmania as well as Carnival Legend’s April 5, 2016 cruise.  Fares start from $699* per person twin share for Carnival Spirit’s five-night cruise departing January 29, 2016.

For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see a travel agent or visit www.carnival.com.au

*subject to availability, conditions apply

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Lines, Australia.

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Talking About A Revolution: New P&O Web Series 

In the lead up to the arrival of Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, P&O Cruises has launched a web series about the cruise line’s modern Australian food revolution. Released today on the cruise line’s YouTube page "https://www.youtube.com/embed/YYtkx5BJ5iE?feature=player_detailpage" , the first clip goes back to where it all began with the cruise line’s decision to create the first Australian celebrity chef restaurant at sea. 

Starring the cruise line’s celebrity chef Luke Mangan and P&O Cruises’ Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell, the short video celebrates five successful years of Salt grill at sea.

As Mangan says in the video, taking his Salt grill restaurant to sea was one of the best decisions he made. 

“We had the same vision – we wanted to have the best restaurant at sea,” Mangan said.

“I think Salt grill aligns with P&O because we were after freshness, creativeness and simplicity and we’ve got the best ingredients and beautiful dining spaces.” 

With the Salt grill concept being expanded to the cruise line’s latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, which will also boast the first Salt grill bars, Mr Myrmell said that the relationship with Mangan helped keep P&O at the forefront of modern dining in Australia.

“Food is the main driver of satisfaction when people are travelling. That’s why it’s important that we have really top notch offerings onboard. And that’s where Luke’s restaurant comes in,” My Myrmell explains in the video. 

“P&Os food revolution is something we’re really excited about. It’s about stepping away from the traditional and creating choice and variety.”

With the food revolution continuing on P&O’s latest ships, four more videos will be unveiled in the coming months including a behind the scenes look at how the cruise line devises its menu, an episode on the popular food and wine cruises and the first look at the Salt grill restaurants and bars on Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden. For more information on P&O Cruises visit www.pocruises.com.au or call 13 24 94.  

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN UNVEILS ROYAL SUITE CLASS

                                       Quantum and Oasis Class ships to boast new levels of luxury from May 2016

 Royal Caribbean International has unveiled a brand new range of Royal Suite Class benefits onboard its Quantum and Oasis Class ships, delivering contemporary luxury designed for discerning travellers on sailings from May 2016. 

Royal Suite Class will deliver a range of exclusive amenities based on three-tiered service levels: Star Class, Sky Class and Sea Class.  Features include butler service delivered by staff trained and certified by the British Butler Institute; free VOOM, the fastest internet at sea; complimentary specialty dining; an ultimate beverage package; inclusive gratuities; preferred seating at select onboard venues and upgraded stateroom amenities.

The Royal Suite Class experience will be available onboard Royal Caribbean’s six Oasis and Quantum Class ships around the world, including Ovation of the Seas, which is currently under construction in Germany.  The $1.3 billion megaliner will sail out of Sydney for the peak summer season from December 2016, claiming the title of not only the largest cruise ship to ever call Australasia home – carrying almost 5,000 guests and 1,500 crew – but also the most technologically advanced.  

“The new Royal Suite Class redefines luxury at sea with exceptional experiences that discerning travellers will appreciate, offering some of the most unique suites onboard the world’s most revolutionary ships,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. 

At the height of suite class luxury, Star Class guests can take advantage of the brand new Royal Genie service. Trained and certified by the British Butler Institute, a Royal Genie will serve as a personal assistant to help guests with their every cruising need 24 hours a day, including restaurant, show and shore excursion reservations, laundry, pressing and shoe shining, in-room dining and cocktails, luggage handling and even unpacking. 

All guests in Royal Suite Class will enjoy the ultimate in upgraded amenities in their suites – such as Hermès, Ferragamo and L’OCCITANE bath products and luxury pillow-top mattresses. Additionally, all Royal Suite Class guests will have exclusive access to the California-chic Coastal Kitchen restaurant and on Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s private beach paradise in Haiti, suite guests enjoy access to the exclusive Barefoot Beach.

Star and Sky Class guests will enjoy a private Suite Sun Deck and reserved VIP seating in theatres, while Star Class guests will receive these benefits plus exclusive Duxiana DUX mattresses and Frette linens in their suites. 

Sea Class includes premium touches in spacious entry-level suites such as the Family Junior Suite, Spa Junior Suite and Junior Suite.

Sky Class features a selection of inclusive amenities in staterooms such as the AquaTheater Suite, Crown Loft Suite, Owner’s Suite, Royal Family Suite, Grand Suite and Superior Grand Suite. 

Star Class includes the most comprehensive collection of amenities and services for guests staying in the most expansive and luxurious suites, such as Quantum-class’ two-deck Royal Loft Suite, Owner’s Loft Suite, Four Bedroom Family Suite, Grand Loft Suite, Sky Loft Suite and Two Bedroom AquaTheater Suite. 

For details on the Royal Suite Class and amenities available for each class visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com/RoyalSuiteClass, or watch this video "https://www.youtube.com/embed/fXpPnkBG8MA?feature=player_detailpage" or call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent.

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

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GO! BIG, BETTER, BEST WITH CELEBRITY CRUISES

                                     The grass is greener with Celebrity Cruises’ new all-inclusive offering

 Modern luxury cruise brand Celebrity Cruises has announced the launch of an unprecedented pricing structure for a premium cruise line in Australia. The brand new Go! Big, Better, Best price tiers will revolutionise the way Australians choose their next cruise, providing more control and the ability to create an all-inclusive package for incredible value.

Go! Big, Better, Best will allow guests to choose cruise packages that include their preferred mix of the following extras: A Classic Beverage Package, unlimited internet, pre-paid gratuities and/or USD$150 in onboard credit*. 

* Go! Big: Standard inclusion on all fares in Oceanview or above, gives the first two passengers the choice of one complimentary extra

* Go! Better: For an additional charge of AUD$20 per person per day, a choice of two extras is included for each guest

* Go! Best: For an additional charge of AUD$60 per person per day, all four extras are included for each guest as well as an upgrade to a Premium Beverage Package.

“When you cruise with Celebrity and choose Go! Big, Better, Best, you’re in control. More is included as standard, which makes planning your next cruise holiday straightforward,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Celebrity Cruises Australia.

“The grass really is greener when you choose Celebrity. Go! Big, Better, Best allows you to pre-pay your bundled extras and plan your next cruise holiday with certainty, knowing that the offer has no expiration date,” Armstrong added.

The region’s highest rated cruise ship, Celebrity Solstice, is famous for her expanse of real, manicured lawn on its top deck. She was recently named the best domestic cruise ship at the recent NTIA awards and Australia’s highest rated cruise line according to Berlitz, the global cruising authority. Celebrity Solstice will offer 16 Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific sailings during the 2015/2016 summer season with a range of 8 to 18 night cruises departing from Sydney, Fremantle, Auckland and Honolulu.  For more information or to book a Celebrity cruise, visit www.celebritycruises.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or head to your local travel agent.

Information supplied by: Celebrity Cruises.

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

Norwegian Cruise Line, Set To Debut Norwegian Star In Australia The First Time Since 2001/2002 With Norwegian Wind.

Norwegian Cruise Line today announced exciting and exotic new itineraries for the brand's Fall/Winter 2016/2017 deployment, bringing the world to guests who want to explore new sights while experiencing the freedom and flexibility that only Norwegian Cruise Line can offer.

Norwegian offers guests new destinations and new ports to choose from in 2016 and 2017, including cruises to Asia onboard Norwegian Star, with itineraries departing from Istanbul, Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Sydney and Auckland?marking the line's return to the Asia and Australia regions for the first time since Norwegian Wind Fall/Winter 2001-2002 and first-ever visits to The Gulf and India.

Norwegian Epic will continue to spend her summers in Europe and return to the US in the fall as Norwegian's newest and largest ship to homeport in Port Canaveral, offering three-, four- and seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries. Exploring South America by sea will now be more accessible than ever with Norwegian, with a number of itineraries ranging in length from seven to 20 nights, with embarkations in Buenos Aires, Argentina; Santiago (Valparaiso), Chile; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Norwegian Spirit will return to homeport in Europe year-round, sailing through the Eastern and Western Mediterranean with departures from Barcelona, Istanbul and Venice.

In addition, Norwegian Jade will now sail seasonally in the winter months from Tampa to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, while Norwegian Jewel will sail two new 14-day Panama Canal sailings from Los Angeles and Miami in February 2016 and two in February 2017. Norwegian's new itineraries will be available for booking later this month. Caribbean sailings will open on August 19 and all other destinations on August 24.

"We are truly excited to offer these incredible new itineraries to our guests, who now have the opportunity to explore areas of the globe that we haven't called on in many years and some that we've never before visited," said Andy Stuart, Norwegian's president and chief operating officer. "Norwegian is taking guests to their dream destinations, where they can indulge in new tastes, new cultures and new experiences, along with the flexibility to unpack once and the freedom to explore many distinct destinations during one vacation-of-a-lifetime."

Asia and Australia     In the fall of 2016, Norwegian Cruise Line will cruise to the Far East for the first time since fall/winter 2001-2002, with the recently renovated Norwegian Star sailing to the region for several unique itineraries that also feature first-ever visits to The Gulf and India. Norwegian Star will continue to spend her summer 2016 months cruising the Baltic Capitals from Copenhagen, Denmark. After her journey through the Western Mediterranean, Norwegian Star will depart on October 31, 2016 from Istanbul on the brand's first voyage to the Gulf region through the Suez Canal for a 20-day Eastern Mediterranean and The Gulf itinerary with stops in Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Rhodes, Greece; overnight in Haifa, Israel; Port Said, Sharm El Sheikh and Safaga, Egypt; Aqaba, Jordan; Salalah and Muscat, Oman; and an overnight in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

On November 20, 2016, Norwegian Star will sail a 21-day Journey to the East from Dubai, United Arab Emirates to Singapore, featuring the brand's first visit to India with an overnight in Mumbai and stops in Goa (Mormugao), Mangalore and Kochi (Cochin). Additional ports of call include Fujairah and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Muscat and Khasab, Oman; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Phuket, Thailand; Penang, Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia; and Singapore.

Throughout December 2016 and January 2017, Norwegian Star will do a series of 11- and 14-day sailings in Southeast Asia, departing from Singapore and Hong Kong respectively. Norwegian Star's 11-day Southeast Asia itineraries departing from Singapore on December 11, 2016 and January 5, 2017 feature ports of call in Ko Samui and an overnight in Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand; Ho Chi  Minh City (Phu My) and Nha Trang, Vietnam; Sanya and Hong Kong, China. Guests who sail on the ship's 14-day Southeast Asia itinerary from Hong Kong on December 22, 2016 will celebrate the holidays with calls in Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Hanoi (Ha Long Bay), Da Nang, and Ho Chi  Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam; Sihanoukville, Cambodia; an overnight stay in Bangkok (Laem Chabang) and a day visit to Ko Samui, Thailand; and Singapore.

On January 16, 2017, Norwegian Star will sail a 21-day Southeast Asia and Australia itinerary from Hong Kong, China to Sydney, Australia. Ports of call include Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam; Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand; Singapore; Bali (Benoa) and Komodo, Indonesia; Darwin, Cairns, Airlie Beach, and Brisbane, Australia.

Norwegian Star will sail a 12-day Australia and New Zealand sailing on February 6, 2017 from Sydney, Australia to Auckland, New Zealand. Ports of call for this adventure down under include Melbourne and Burnie, Australia; and Dunedin, Akaroa, Wellington, Napier and Tauranga, New Zealand. Norwegian Star will also sail a 19-day Australia and New Zealand thrill-filled itinerary from Auckland, New Zealand to Singapore departing February 18, 2017. Ports of call include: Bay of Islands, New Zealand; Sydney, Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Cairns and Darwin, Australia; and Komodo and Bali (Benoa), Indonesia; and Kuala Lumpur (Port Kelang), Malaysia.

Norwegian Star will begin her journey back to the West with an 18-day Southeast Asia and India sailing from Singapore to Dubai, departing March 9, 2017. Ports of Call include Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), and Penang, Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Kochi (Cochin), Mangalore, Mumbai and Goa (Mormugao), India; Muscat and Khasab, Oman; Fujairah and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Rounding out her season in the Far East will be a 20-day Eastern Mediterranean and The Gulf sailing from Dubai, United Arab Emirates through the Suez Canal to Venice, Italy departing March 27, 2017. Ports of call on this Western-bound journey include Fujairah, United Arab Emirates; Muscat and Salalah, Oman; Aqaba, Jordan; Safaga and Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt; an overnight in Haifa, Israel; a stop in Iraklion, Crete, Greece; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and finally, an overnight stay in Venice, Italy.

For more you can go to: www.norwegiancruiseline.com.au

Information supplied by: Norwegian Cruise Line.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia.

Pacific Pearl To Take On Edgy New Style In Sydney Dry Dock  

Pacific Pearl will become the latest ship in P&O Cruises’ fleet to offer guests an extra dose of holiday adrenaline, following the addition of the popular P&OEdge Adventure Park as part of a major refurbishment next month.

The new P&OEdge Adventure Park will feature more than 15 great activities including a surfboard simulator offering guests the chance to hang ten on the decks, as well as favourites such as the bungy tramp, flying fox and walk the plank. 

When she emerges from the Sydney dry dock on August 15, Pacific Pearl will also offer a PANDORA outlet, enabling guests to indulge in some holiday shopping with one of Australia’s top jewellery brands. 

The ship’s décor will take on a stylish new look following the refit, with a fresh colour palette and contemporary furniture, wallpaper, artwork and carpet creating a modern Australian feel for the Orient, Mix bar, Connexions, the Atrium and Luna restaurant.  Meanwhile, the Plantation buffet will be redesigned to offer a trendy café vibe.

The multi-million dollar refurbishment will see a general refresh of guest cabins and other public spaces including the Dome, spa and Waterfront restaurant, with a total of 17,000sqm of carpet being fitted on the ship. 

Enhancing the onboard entertainment, duelling pianos will be added to The Orient turning the bar into a lively and interactive music hub.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said the refit was in line with Pacific Jewel’s recent refurbishment, as well as the contemporary design of the cruise line’s latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, which will join the fleet in November this year.

“Pacific Pearl will be gleaming when she comes out of dry dock – we can’t wait for our guests to see the new look and enjoy all her additional features,” Mr Myrmell said. 

Fares for a nine-night cruise to the Pacific Islands on Pacific Pearl departing Sydney on November 10, 2015 start from $799* per person quad share.   P&OEdge Adventure Park activities can be purchased individually, with the surf board simulator costing $10 for three rides, while multi-activity adrenaline passes are priced from $89 for children aged 8 and over and $99 for adults for a bronze pass. For more information on P&O Cruises visit www.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.

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Catch a Boomerang Burger on Carnival Spirit.

Carnival Cruise Line has unwrapped details of its new Boomerang Burger which is set to add a true Australian flavour to Carnival Spirit’s new burger bar – and keep guests coming back for more.

The burger has been created by U.S. chef, restaurateur and Food Network personality Guy Fieri with plenty of input from Carnival’s enthusiastic Australian fans after the cruise line put out a Facebook call-out for burger name ideas.

Tipped to be a favourite at Guy’s Burger Joint, which debuts on Carnival Spirit in September, the Boomerang Burger will feature beetroot – the standout ingredient nominated as a must-have by local cruisers – alongside other Aussie favourites like tasty cheese, bacon, tomato and grilled onion.

To meet the beetroot challenge, Guy developed a special beetroot relish which will feature on the Boomerang Burger in addition to his trademark Donkey Sauce, a delicious blend of tomato relish and aioli.

The result? A burger that rocks, according to the Californian chef. 

Finding a name for the burger was just as much fun as coming up with the recipe, with Facebook offerings including the ‘True Blue Dinki Di’, the ‘You Beaut, Beetroot’, the ‘Bonza Burger’ and the ‘Kookaburger’.

But with Guy and the Carnival team confident the new recipe will be a winner, it was the catchy Boomerang Burger name which won out.

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the burger was another great example of the cruise line ensuring its Aussie guests felt right at home. 

“Guy’s Burger Joint is a great American experience, but with the addition of the Boomerang Burger we’re making sure it also suits Aussie tastes,” Ms Vandekreeke said. 

“With all burgers included in the fare, we think Guy’s Burger Joint is going to be very popular - and we’re expecting the Boomerang Burger to fly out the door.  

“Cruisers just need to remember that it’s a special item so you have to call for it by name – and once you do, it’ll keep you coming back for more.”

Guy’s Burger Joint is one of seven new bars and restaurants being added to Carnival Spirit during her USD$44 million dry dock in Singapore in late August. 

Holidaymakers can experience the Boomerang Burger and more on an 11-night cruise to New Caledonia and Vanuatu on Carnival Spirit departing Sydney on September 14, 2015, with fares from $1499* per person twin share. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZzjsp4FDYA&feature=youtu.be

For more information call 13 31 94, see a travel agent or visit www.carnival.com.au

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Lines, Australia.

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P&O Cruises’ Five Ship Spectacular Will Rock Sydney Harbour

P&O Cruises has revealed details of its history-making five ship spectacular which is set to rock Sydney Harbour on November 25.  The cruise line has announced that some of the best known performers in Australia today – Jessica Mauboy, The Veronicas, Samantha Jade, Justice Crew and Stan Walker – will headline a musical extravaganza which will run from mid-afternoon into the evening.

The performers will be joined by 20 other great live music acts across the ships as well as 10 DJs. 

More than 9000 passengers will be able to enjoy the special concerts, while all of Sydney will enjoy the unprecedented spectacle of five ships on the harbour, beginning with a Salute to Sydney which will see the fleet form a V off the heads before they sail single file into the harbour.

The P&O parade will mark the arrival of the line’s two latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, which will be officially named as they sail by Sydney’s Fort Denison together after arriving in the Harbour. The cruise line will announce details of the ceremony and the ships’ godmothers at a later date.  After their early morning arrival, the five ships will take up their positions for the afternoon of entertainment with Pacific Jewel located at Athol Bay, Pacific Dawn off Garden Island, Pacific Pearl at Point Piper, Pacific Aria berthed at the Overseas Passenger Terminal and Pacific Eden set to be anchored at Neutral Bay after spending the day at White Bay. 

Following the concert, guests onboard the ships will enjoy the biggest white party at sea with the cruise line overseeing a mass production of its new Bianco event on the top decks of all five ships.    P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said Sydney has never before hosted five cruise ships on the same day. To celebrate the historic moment, a spectacular firework finale will light up the night sky above the cruise cavalcade.

 “This will be like no party on earth and is sure to become an iconic moment in Sydney Harbour’s history as well as providing lasting memories for the thousands of guests onboard,” Mr Myrmell said.  As anticipation for its latest ships continues to build, P&O has released a stunning new fly through video designed to give cruisers a further taste of the future of Australian cruising. Drawing on high-quality renderings, the short video takes viewers on a journey through the interiors of Pacific Eden, revealing more of the ship’s striking décor and exciting new features.

Holidaymakers wanting to enjoy the music spectacular with five headline acts, 20 live performers, 10 DJs and top deck Bianco parties onboard the ships on Sydney Harbour can choose from five cruises including: 

* A two-night cruise on Pacific Aria sailing from Sydney to Brisbane on November 25 and including a live performance by Jessica Mauboy from $699* per person twin share

* A nine-night roundtrip Sydney cruise on Pacific Eden departing on November 25 to New Caledonia including a live performance by The Veronicas, priced from $1399* per person twin share 

* A three-night roundtrip sea break from Sydney on Pacific Pearl departing on November 23 and including a live performance by Samantha Jade, priced from $599* per person twin share 

* A four-night roundtrip cruise on Pacific Jewel from Sydney to the Hunter Valley departing on November 23 and featuring a live performance by Justice Crew, priced from $649* per person twin share 

* A seven-night roundtrip Brisbane cruise on Pacific Dawn departing on November 21 with calls to Moreton Island, Eden, Newcastle for the Hunter Valley and a live performance by Stan Walker in Sydney, priced from $1349* per person twin share. 

For more information and bookings contact a licensed travel agent or P&O Cruises on 1300 385 629 or visit www.pocruises.com.au/5ships and http://tinyurl.com/o7nvgj9 for photos and event details.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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RCI Cruises Australia Counts Down To Biggest Season Yet !

All three brands to sail in Australia for first time in 2015/16 summer season.

23 July 2015: RCL Cruises Australia has reached another milestone and is counting down to its biggest season yet. This year will see all three brands based in local waters for the very first time, with six extraordinary ships offering diverse itineraries from local ports. The 2015/16 summer season will see RCL’s local capacity increase by almost 50 percent with 93 itineraries around Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and Asia on Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and for the first time, Azamara Club Cruises.

“RCL Cruises has been offering Australians incredible cruise holidays for almost a decade and we can’t wait to kick off our biggest season yet with more unique itinerary offerings on some of the largest, youngest and most exceptional ships sailing locally,” said Sean Treacy, commercial director, RCL Cruises.

“This season will also see one of our largest few days in Sydney yet, when superliner Celebrity Solstice and the two largest cruise ships based in Australia, Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas, all visit over three days, turning around more than 25,000 passengers and crew at the Overseas Passenger Terminal. 

“Voyager of the Seas will welcome identical sister ship Explorer of the Seas to her new Sydney home for the first time with an historic rendezvous in beautiful Sydney Harbour on Saturday 28th November. Meanwhile, Australia’s highest rated cruise ship* and one of the most modern superliners sailing on local waters, Celebrity Solstice turns around in Sydney on Thursday 26th November. Over three days, the three ships have a combined capacity of almost 15,000 passengers and crew, and an average age of only 12 years making them the largest and some of the youngest cruise ships based in Australia,” continued Sean.

What’s new for the 2015/16 Australasian cruise season:

* Azamara Club Cruises will base its first ever ship in Australia, Azamara Quest.

* Royal Caribbean International will base its first ever ship out of Brisbane, Legend of the Seas.

* Recently revitalised Voyager Class ship Explorer of the Seas will sail out of Sydney for the first time offering some of the most incredible onboard features like sister ship Voyager of the Seas, including a FlowRider surf simulator.

* Australia’s highest rated cruise ship*, Celebrity Solstice will visit Mystery Island in Vanuatu for the first time.

* Celebrity Solstice also arrives home this year with new Suite Class enhancements including a dedicated suite-only restaurant called Luminae, a VIP lounge, complimentary ‘all in’ benefits such as premium beverages, dining at any specialty restaurant and unlimited internet access.

RCL’s Australasian cruise season will kick off with the arrival of Radiance of the Seas into Sydney on Friday 9th October, followed by Celebrity Solstice on Wednesday 21st October. Voyager of the Seas will arrive back home on Thursday 5th November, before new ship Explorer of the Seas arrives in Fremantle on Friday 13th November to kick off her maiden Australian season. Explorer of the Seas arrives to her home port of Sydney for the first time on Saturday 28th November where she will historically rendezvous with her identical sister ship Voyager of the Seas in Sydney Harbour. Brisbane will welcome Legend of the Seas to her new home on Tuesday 8th December.

Meanwhile

Azamara Quest’s maiden Australian port of call will be Darwin on Monday 28th December, before she arrives in Cairns on Monday 4th January 2016 for her first local cruise. 

Royal Caribbean International Season Highlights:

For her inaugural season, Explorer of the Seas will sail out of Sydney and Perth and feature a wide variety of itineraries, ranging from three- to 16-nights to the South Pacific, New Zealand, around Australia and sampler cruises. Itineraries include:

* A 10-night repositioning cruise from Singapore to Perth on 3rd November 2015 which calls at Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Phuket.

* A spectacular Australia and New Zealand cruise leaving Perth on 13th November 2015 and ending in Sydney 16-nights later. 

* Two three-night sampler cruises departing Sydney, giving cruisers a taste of Explorer of the Seas during her maiden season. The ship will also offer a short four-night return cruise to Hobart.

* Two 13-night cruises that offer a combination of New Zealand and the South Pacific islands.

* Three 11-night cruises to New Zealand which call at Auckland, Wellington, Picton, Tauranga and Napier.

* Another 11-night New Zealand cruise for enthusiasts of the South Island including the beautiful Milford Sounds region.

* A 12-night New Zealand cruise departing Sydney 12th April 2016, and calling at Picton, Wellington, Napier, Tauranga and Auckland.

* Eight-, Nine- and 10-night South Pacific Island cruises with calls at New Caledonia and Vanuatu.

* A mega 24-night Transpacific cruise from Sydney to Seattle, Washington.  Departing on 23rd April 2016, the sailing calls at the South Pacific gems of New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Fiji before continuing her repositioning journey with calls at Hawaii.

For her fourth season down under, Voyager of the Seas will offer five new ports of call including the Isle of Pines (New Caledonia), Lifou (Loyalty Islands), Mystery Island (Vanuatu), The Whitsundays (Australia) and Bay of Islands (New Zealand). Highlights of her sailings include:

* A 14-night cruise from Singapore to Sydney departing 22nd October 2015. This sailing will include the ship’s maiden call to The Whitsundays, as well as calls at Kuala Lumpur, Darwin and Brisbane.

* Two 13-night Pacific Island Fusion cruises which uniquely combine calls to New Caledonia and Vanuatu with New Zealand.

* Two 12-night South Pacific and Fiji cruises calling at New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Fiji.

* Three 10-night South Pacific sailings combining Noumea with the new ports of Isle of Pines, Lifou and Mystery Island. A 10-night South Pacific cruise will also be offered which combines Noumea with Fiji.

* Shorter South Pacific options include one seven-night and two eight-night cruises.

* For the Christmas and New Year school holiday period,  Voyager of the Seas will offer a 10-, 11- and 14-night New Zealand cruise 

* This season the ship will also offer a seven-night Tasmania cruise and an eight-night Queensland cruise.

* Voyager of the Seas leaves Australia on 16th  April 2016 with a 14-night Sydney to Singapore cruise visiting Brisbane, Darwin, Kuala Lumpur and ending with an overnight stay in Singapore.

Radiance of the Seas will sail from Sydney and Perth with a wide variety of itineraries, ranging from four- to 18-nights to the South Pacific, Queensland, Tasmania, around Australia and New Zealand. Voyagers for the summer season include:

* A 17-night transpacific cruise from Honolulu to Sydney on 21st September 2015 which calls at French Polynesia and New Zealand.

* Six South Pacific cruises ranging in duration from eight- to 12-nights including the inaugural call for Radiance of the Seas into Mare, New Caledonia during her 12-night New Year’s cruise.

* Two circumnavigations of Australia departing 1st November 2015 and 25th February 2016 -  a 16-night ‘Top End’ cruise or a 16-night south coast. 

* Four-, six- and seven-night cruises to Tasmania.

* Visit the Whitsundays, Cairns, Port Douglas, Willis Island and Brisbane on the ship’s 10-night Queensland sailing departing 8th February 2016.

* Radiance of the Seas leaves Australia on 3rd April 2016 with an 18-night Sydney to Honolulu cruise visiting Picton, Wellington, Papeete, Moorea, Bora Bora and Honolulu.

Revitalised in February 2013, Legend of the Seas will offer an array of 17 attractive itineraries ranging from two- to 14-nights to the South Pacific islands, Queensland and New Zealand during her maiden season sailing out of Brisbane. Highlights including:

* An 18-night repositioning cruise from Hong Kong to Brisbane departing 20th November 2015 which calls at Manila, Phillipines; Puerto Princesa, Philippines; Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia; Bali; Darwin; Cairns and Whitsundays.

* Nine South Pacific cruises ranging from eight- to 10-nights calling at ports in New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Loyalty Islands.

* A further two 11-night cruises incorporate the South Pacific islands and Fiji.

* One 14-night cruise to New Zealand which calls at Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Akaroa, Dunedin and Dusky/Doubtful/Milford Sounds.

* Visit the Whitsundays, Cairns (overnight) and Willis Island on two seven-night Queensland sailings.

* One two-night sampler cruise, giving cruisers a taste of Legend of the Seas.

* The ship wraps up her season on 20th April 2016 with an 18-night Brisbane to Hong Kong cruise visiting the Whitsundays, Cairns, Darwin, Bali, Kota Kinabalu, Puerto Princessa and Manila.

Celebrity Cruises Season Highlights:

The modern luxury Celebrity Solstice will offer a range of eight- to 18-night itineraries around Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, departing from Auckland, Sydney and Perth.  Highlights of Celebrity Solstice’s 2015/16 season include:

* An 18‐night Trans Pacific cruise from Honolulu to Sydney departing on 2 October 2015 which calls at Hawaii, French Polynesia and New Zealand.

* Three eight‐night South Pacific cruises including an Easter sailing and a NEW New Year’s holiday cruise with Celebrity Solstice’s inaugural call to Mystery Island, Vanuatu.

* Two 12‐night South Pacific cruises that include Fiji.

* Five 12‐night open‐jaw cruises between Sydney and Auckland - 3 Sydney to Auckland and 2 Auckland to Sydney - including an Auckland to Sydney Christmas cruise.

* One 14‐night Sydney to Auckland cruise, and one 14‐night Auckland to Sydney cruise.

* An 18‐night Australia and New Zealand cruise from Auckland to Perth which can be combined with the following 17‐night ‘Top End’ Round Australia cruise from Perth to Sydney to create a 35‐night circumnavigation of Australia cruise.

* An 18‐night Trans Pacific cruise from Sydney to Honolulu on 9 April 2016.

This year also sees the return of another Aussie favourite, Celebrity Millennium, who will call by Australia during two sailings in her Asian season.

* A 16-night Singapore to Sydney sailing which visits Bali, Darwin, Cairns and Brisbane before arriving in Sydney.   

* An 18-night Sydney to Honolulu Transpacific cruise that calls at Lautoka, Suva, Bora Bora, Moorea, Papeete and Honolulu. 

Azamara Club Cruises Season Highlights:

Azamara Quest will offer five local cruises during the boutique cruise lines first Australian season. With smaller ships that are able to go to places other cruise ships can’t, Azamara Club offers longer stays, more overnight calls (O/N) and night touring, travellers have the opportunity to truly experience a destination - taking in the sights, sounds and flavours of local cultures in every port. Highlights of the inaugural season include:

* A 14-night Bali & Barrier Reef Voyage departing 22nd December 2015 and sailing from Benoa, Bali (O/N) to Cairns (O/N) via  Lombok and Komodo, Indonesia; Darwin,  Thursday Island, Cooktown and Port Douglas.

*  A 10-night Great Barrier Reef Voyage from Cairns to Sydney (O/N) departing 5 January 2016 and calling at Townsville, Hardy Reef the Great Barrier Reef , Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays, Mooloolaba, Brisbane and Newcastle.

* 16-night Australia & New Zealand sailing from Sydney (O/N) to Auckland which visits Melbourne, Port Arthur, Hobart (O/N), Milford Sound, Dunedin, Akaroa, Picton, Napier and Tauranga (O/N).

* A 13-night voyage from Auckland back to Sydney (O/N) via Bay of Islands, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington (O/N), Picton, Akaroa, Dunedin and Milford Sound.

* Azamara Quest completes her maiden Australian season with a 17-night Great Barrier Reef and Bali cruise departing Sydney on 13 February 2016 and calls at Hamilton Island, Cairns (O/N), Port Douglas, Cooktown, Thursday Island, Darwin and Komodo before arriving in Bali (O/N).

For more information about or to book a cruise, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au, www.celebritycruises.com.au and www.azamaraclubcruises.com or call 1800 754 500 or contact your local travel agent.

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises.

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