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NEWS ITEMS AND PRESS RELEASES
This page presents various news items and press releases that caught our eye. They are presented as a service to our readers. Beyondships assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of these items and press releases nor should the inclusion of any item or press releases be interpreted as an endorsement of that item or press release or their content.
Carnival Splendor to do one-way cruises between New York and San Juan
Carnival Cruise Lines has announced that Carnival Splendor's schedule is being expanded to include one-way cruises from New York City to San Juan, Puerto Rico and one-way cruises from San Juan to New York.
The following is from Carnival's press release:
"Beginning in 2014, Carnival Cruise Lines has significantly diversified Carnival Splendor’s year-round offerings from New York, adding new four- and five- day Canada cruises, seven-day Canada/New England departures, and the only program of eight-day eastern Caribbean voyages operating one-way between New York and San Juan.
These new voyages complement the ship’s popular year-round eight-day departures that showcase top destinations in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, and Central Florida.
In total, Carnival Splendor will offer 10 different itineraries visiting more than a dozen scenic destinations throughout the Caribbean, Canada, and the U.S. Atlantic Coast, providing consumers with an incredible array of “Fun Ship” vacation choices.
“New York is a favorite homeport of Carnival guests and we’re delighted to expand our offerings from the Big Apple to include a diverse array of itineraries, from historic and charming cities in Canada and New England to a host of tropical island destinations throughout the Caribbean,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival’s president and CEO. “At the same time, we’re also pleased to offer these special one-way cruises between New York and San Juan which provide our guests with an even greater variety of exciting destinations from which to choose,” he added.
Four- to Seven-Day Canada/New England Cruises from New York
Carnival Splendor will operate a schedule of four-, five- and seven-day Canada/New England cruises running from June to October 2014.
Four-day weekend cruises depart June 5, July 3 and 31, and Aug. 28, 2014, calling at Saint John, New Brunswick, while five-day cruises departSept. 1 and Oct. 11, 2014, calling at both Saint John and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Five week-long “fall foliage” Canada/New England cruises will also be offered, featuring extended stops at Boston, Portland, Maine; Saint John and Halifax. Departure days for the seven-day voyages include Sept. 6, 13, 20, and 27 and Oct. 4, 2014.
These attractive Canada/New England voyages provide guests the opportunity to view centuries-old architectural structures, explore awe-inspiring natural wonders, and visit interesting historical landmarks.
Unique One-Way Cruises Between New York and San Juan
For the first time, Carnival Splendor will offer a series of one-way voyages between New York and San Juan. The eight-day itineraries will operate from New York to San Juan or vice versa, with stops at St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Antigua, and St. Maarten. Three New York-to-San Juan cruises will depart Oct. 24, 2014, and Jan. 12 and Feb. 13, 2015, while three San Juan-to-New York voyages will depart Nov. 1, 2014, and Jan. 20 and Feb. 21, 2015.
On these one-of-a-kind voyages, guests can visit some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and participate in a wide range of activities, from snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking to zip-lining across the lush Caribbean countryside.
Eight-day Voyages Round-Trip from New York
These new options complement Carnival Splendor’s wide array of eight-day cruises round-trip from New York offered throughout the year. These include a Bahamas/Florida itinerary calling at Port Canaveral, Fla.; and Freeport and Nassau, The Bahamas, along with two different eastern Caribbean routes, one featuring San Juan, St. Thomas and Grand Turk, and another visiting Grand Turk, Nassau and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay.
In addition to outstanding beaches, guests sailing on these cruises can experience unique dining, shopping and cultural opportunities and tour a variety of historic landmarks and attractions."
The following is from Carnival's press release:
"Beginning in 2014, Carnival Cruise Lines has significantly diversified Carnival Splendor’s year-round offerings from New York, adding new four- and five- day Canada cruises, seven-day Canada/New England departures, and the only program of eight-day eastern Caribbean voyages operating one-way between New York and San Juan.
These new voyages complement the ship’s popular year-round eight-day departures that showcase top destinations in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, and Central Florida.
In total, Carnival Splendor will offer 10 different itineraries visiting more than a dozen scenic destinations throughout the Caribbean, Canada, and the U.S. Atlantic Coast, providing consumers with an incredible array of “Fun Ship” vacation choices.
“New York is a favorite homeport of Carnival guests and we’re delighted to expand our offerings from the Big Apple to include a diverse array of itineraries, from historic and charming cities in Canada and New England to a host of tropical island destinations throughout the Caribbean,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival’s president and CEO. “At the same time, we’re also pleased to offer these special one-way cruises between New York and San Juan which provide our guests with an even greater variety of exciting destinations from which to choose,” he added.
Four- to Seven-Day Canada/New England Cruises from New York
Carnival Splendor will operate a schedule of four-, five- and seven-day Canada/New England cruises running from June to October 2014.
Four-day weekend cruises depart June 5, July 3 and 31, and Aug. 28, 2014, calling at Saint John, New Brunswick, while five-day cruises departSept. 1 and Oct. 11, 2014, calling at both Saint John and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Five week-long “fall foliage” Canada/New England cruises will also be offered, featuring extended stops at Boston, Portland, Maine; Saint John and Halifax. Departure days for the seven-day voyages include Sept. 6, 13, 20, and 27 and Oct. 4, 2014.
These attractive Canada/New England voyages provide guests the opportunity to view centuries-old architectural structures, explore awe-inspiring natural wonders, and visit interesting historical landmarks.
Unique One-Way Cruises Between New York and San Juan
For the first time, Carnival Splendor will offer a series of one-way voyages between New York and San Juan. The eight-day itineraries will operate from New York to San Juan or vice versa, with stops at St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Antigua, and St. Maarten. Three New York-to-San Juan cruises will depart Oct. 24, 2014, and Jan. 12 and Feb. 13, 2015, while three San Juan-to-New York voyages will depart Nov. 1, 2014, and Jan. 20 and Feb. 21, 2015.
On these one-of-a-kind voyages, guests can visit some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and participate in a wide range of activities, from snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking to zip-lining across the lush Caribbean countryside.
Eight-day Voyages Round-Trip from New York
These new options complement Carnival Splendor’s wide array of eight-day cruises round-trip from New York offered throughout the year. These include a Bahamas/Florida itinerary calling at Port Canaveral, Fla.; and Freeport and Nassau, The Bahamas, along with two different eastern Caribbean routes, one featuring San Juan, St. Thomas and Grand Turk, and another visiting Grand Turk, Nassau and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay.
In addition to outstanding beaches, guests sailing on these cruises can experience unique dining, shopping and cultural opportunities and tour a variety of historic landmarks and attractions."
Celebrity Cruises enters into an alliance with Xbox
Celebrity Cruises has announced that it will be working along with Xbox to add more entertainment options to Celebrity's ships.
In a press release, Celebrity stated:
"Revealing an addition to its series of premium collaborations, Celebrity Cruises has joined forces with Microsoft’s Xbox to integrate the leading destination of video game entertainment into guests’ modern luxury vacations. Slated to introduce one of the industry’s largest Xbox experiences at sea, Celebrity’s alliance boasts entertaining Xbox-themed spaces across its fleet, offering families interactive Xbox Games experiences for children, teens and even the kid in every adult.
Guests can anticipate enhancements to existing venues and onboard programming as soon as this summer, with the inclusion of Xbox-featured activities and gaming areas in the youth program’s Fun Factory and X-Club facilities. For youth who have been registered to participate by their parents, the Celebrity Xbox experience will offer exciting age-appropriate games and themed nights ranging from sports and dance to adventure and racing on Xbox 360 and Kinect for Xbox 360.
Adults also have the opportunity to connect and enjoy the Xbox experience through free play and at scheduled themed events, including Zumba® parties and sports tournaments, available on traveling Kinect for Xbox 360 consoles in different venues throughout the ships.
“As a premium vacation brand, Celebrity is dedicated to providing guests with what they want while on vacation, whether relaxation, entertainment or staying connected – it’s readily available,” said Greg Purdy, Celebrity Cruises’ SVP of Operations. “Joining existing offerings like the Celebrity iLounge, a hip approach to the standard Internet lounge and the first Authorized Apple® Specialist at sea, the Celebrity Xbox experience expands our technology offering with even more engaging ways for the whole family to enjoy a modern luxury vacation.”
To celebrate the launch, one lucky family of four will win a seven-night cruise onboard the Celebrity ship of their choice, with the exception of Celebrity Xpedition, and an Xbox 360 prize pack as the grand prize of the Celebrity & Xbox Experience Sweepstakes. For a chance to win, guests enter online through June 18, 2013 atwww.celebritycruises.com/xboxsweeps. Participants also can win four Xbox 360 prize packs, each including an Xbox 360 with Kinect and a month of Xbox Live Gold membership.
“The Celebrity Xbox voyage is unlike any journey Xbox has embarked on,” said Grover Holtzclaw, US Xbox Director. “With Xbox’s first exclusive experience at sea, two great brands have come together to develop the ultimate family vacation: the best gaming entertainment combined with the modern luxury Celebrity provides its guests.”
The newly “Solsticized” Celebrity Constellation is the first of Celebrity’s ten ships to introduce the complete onboard Xbox experience when it re-entered service on May 5, 2013, after completing its scheduled drydock - just in time for families planning their summer vacations. The remaining Celebrity ships will offer Xbox 360 and Kinect for Xbox 360 this summer, and will unfold the full Xbox experience by the end of 2013."
In a press release, Celebrity stated:
"Revealing an addition to its series of premium collaborations, Celebrity Cruises has joined forces with Microsoft’s Xbox to integrate the leading destination of video game entertainment into guests’ modern luxury vacations. Slated to introduce one of the industry’s largest Xbox experiences at sea, Celebrity’s alliance boasts entertaining Xbox-themed spaces across its fleet, offering families interactive Xbox Games experiences for children, teens and even the kid in every adult.
Guests can anticipate enhancements to existing venues and onboard programming as soon as this summer, with the inclusion of Xbox-featured activities and gaming areas in the youth program’s Fun Factory and X-Club facilities. For youth who have been registered to participate by their parents, the Celebrity Xbox experience will offer exciting age-appropriate games and themed nights ranging from sports and dance to adventure and racing on Xbox 360 and Kinect for Xbox 360.
Adults also have the opportunity to connect and enjoy the Xbox experience through free play and at scheduled themed events, including Zumba® parties and sports tournaments, available on traveling Kinect for Xbox 360 consoles in different venues throughout the ships.
“As a premium vacation brand, Celebrity is dedicated to providing guests with what they want while on vacation, whether relaxation, entertainment or staying connected – it’s readily available,” said Greg Purdy, Celebrity Cruises’ SVP of Operations. “Joining existing offerings like the Celebrity iLounge, a hip approach to the standard Internet lounge and the first Authorized Apple® Specialist at sea, the Celebrity Xbox experience expands our technology offering with even more engaging ways for the whole family to enjoy a modern luxury vacation.”
To celebrate the launch, one lucky family of four will win a seven-night cruise onboard the Celebrity ship of their choice, with the exception of Celebrity Xpedition, and an Xbox 360 prize pack as the grand prize of the Celebrity & Xbox Experience Sweepstakes. For a chance to win, guests enter online through June 18, 2013 atwww.celebritycruises.com/xboxsweeps. Participants also can win four Xbox 360 prize packs, each including an Xbox 360 with Kinect and a month of Xbox Live Gold membership.
“The Celebrity Xbox voyage is unlike any journey Xbox has embarked on,” said Grover Holtzclaw, US Xbox Director. “With Xbox’s first exclusive experience at sea, two great brands have come together to develop the ultimate family vacation: the best gaming entertainment combined with the modern luxury Celebrity provides its guests.”
The newly “Solsticized” Celebrity Constellation is the first of Celebrity’s ten ships to introduce the complete onboard Xbox experience when it re-entered service on May 5, 2013, after completing its scheduled drydock - just in time for families planning their summer vacations. The remaining Celebrity ships will offer Xbox 360 and Kinect for Xbox 360 this summer, and will unfold the full Xbox experience by the end of 2013."
Norwegian Getaway to feature Broadway Show
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that the entertainment offerings on its forthcoming cruise ship Norwegian Getaway will include the Broadway Show "Legally Blonde"
The following is from Norwegian's announcement:
"Norwegian Cruise Line continued its legacy of innovating cruise ship entertainment as it announced that the seven-time Tony Award nominated musical LEGALLY BLONDE will be featured on Norwegian Getaway, along with an additional Broadway show: the dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR and an all-new stand-up comedy program in partnership with Levity Entertainment Group, the largest producer of comedians in the world. The line also introduced all of the varied and exciting entertainment acts and venues that will debut on the ship, including Howl at the Moon at Headliners Comedy Club. These exciting entertainment experiences are in addition to Norwegian Getaway’s Illusionarium and Grammy Experience, as previously announced.
“Norwegian has truly raised the bar when it comes to entertainment at sea and that is why it was extremely important to me that Norwegian Getaway feature high caliber entertainment that will continue to exceed our guest’s expectations,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “With LEGALLY BLONDE performing in the Getaway Theater, along with BURN THE FLOOR, world-class comedy by THE LEVITY ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, magic in the previously announced ILLUSIONARIUM, THE GRAMMY EXPERIENCE, and all of the other entertainment offerings, we continue our commitment on Norwegian Getaway to offer guests the best entertainment experience possible.”
Headlining the 787-seat Getaway Theater is the seven-time Tony Award nominated Broadway musical, LEGALLY BLONDE. Liverpool Confidential has called the show, “Kind-hearted, comical and camp, Legally Blonde – The Musical is right up there with Mamma Mia! and Hairspray.”
LEGALLY BLONDE tells the story of Elle Woods who, after being dumped by her boyfriend, follows him to Harvard Law School to win him back. With the help of some new-found friends, she learns that it’s so much better to be smart.
The show opened on Broadway at the Palace Theater on April 29, 2007 and closed in 2008 after playing 595 performances. The show was also one of London’s most popular West End shows, where it played at the Savoy Theatre and won three Laurence Olivier Awards, including one for “Best New Musical.”
In addition to being a bona fide Broadway hit musical, LEGALLY BLONDE is a global success and is currently touring in Australia.
Offering shows in both the Getaway Theater and more intimate performances, dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR will dazzle guests with their re-invented ballroom dancing.
Beginning with, and maintaining all the wonderful traditions and the social history of the Ballroom dance art form, BURN THE FLOOR is a groundbreaking show, serving as a melting pot of styles, energy and excitement for today’s generation of dancers. It is Ballroom “supercharged.”
During the course of the show, the dancers perform all the Ballroom and Latin styles, including The Waltz, Cha Cha, Samba, Salsa, Rumba, Foxtrot, Quickstep,
Mambo, Tango, Swing, Jive, Lindy Hop, Viennese Waltz, and Paso Doble. The music is eclectic, from Swing and Waltz classics to J-Lo and Credence Clearwater. Two vocalists perform in many languages during the show, including English, Spanish and Portuguese.
The show premiered in London in 1999 and toured the US for the first time in 2000, including performances at Radio City Music Hall. After touring around the world, in a variety of countries, including Japan, Singapore and Australia, BURN THE FLOOR premiered on Broadway in 2009. Originally intended to be a limited run, the show opened to rave reviews in New York and extended its original run into January 2010, performing 193 shows. Already staged in more than 300 cities globally, BURN THE FLOOR is currently in the midst of its World Tour of the Broadway Production with dates in Holland, Australia, South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea and Japan, and will return to the US later this year before joining Norwegian Getaway in 2014.
Norwegian Getaway will feature multiple, specially-designed entertainment venues throughout the ship so that guests can choose from a wide variety of entertainment each evening of their cruise with choices to appeal to a broad audience.
Headliners Comedy Club on Norwegian Getaway will feature top-tier comedians presented through the line’s new partnership with Levity Entertainment Group, the world’s largest producer of live comedy. Levity employs over 300 artists nationwide each week, creating special events, original tours, and television specials with some of the biggest names in comedy, including Daniel Tosh, Amy Shumer, B ill Cosby, Gabriel Iglesias and Jeff Dunham, who is currently the most successful touring comedian worldwide. Levity packages and produces best-in-class talent for all live experiences, including premium comedy clubs, international comedy festivals, corporate events and large-scale arena and stadium shows. Levity will bring a new level of comedy entertainment on board Norwegian Getaway, offering 12 shows per week.
The world’s greatest rock n’ roll dueling piano show, Howl at the Moon, which received rave reviews on Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Breakaway, will also be featured in Headliners on board Norwegian Getaway. This total entertainment experience features talented piano players who not only entertain the guests; they make the guests part of the show. The fun is centered around two baby grand pianos and a full out rock show with Howl’s entertainers playing the best music from 70’s rock to hip-hop for four hours per show. Howl at the Moon, with multiple locations across the United States, encourages people to channel their inner rock star, so guests should get ready to clap, sing, dance and howl.
Currently being built at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Getaway will be 146,600 gross tons and offer a wide range of accommodations. The ship represents an opportunity for the Norwegian guest to “get away” from the routine of work, school, and daily stress, and find a true respite at sea that reflects the energy and culture that Miami is known for worldwide.
The following is from Norwegian's announcement:
"Norwegian Cruise Line continued its legacy of innovating cruise ship entertainment as it announced that the seven-time Tony Award nominated musical LEGALLY BLONDE will be featured on Norwegian Getaway, along with an additional Broadway show: the dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR and an all-new stand-up comedy program in partnership with Levity Entertainment Group, the largest producer of comedians in the world. The line also introduced all of the varied and exciting entertainment acts and venues that will debut on the ship, including Howl at the Moon at Headliners Comedy Club. These exciting entertainment experiences are in addition to Norwegian Getaway’s Illusionarium and Grammy Experience, as previously announced.
“Norwegian has truly raised the bar when it comes to entertainment at sea and that is why it was extremely important to me that Norwegian Getaway feature high caliber entertainment that will continue to exceed our guest’s expectations,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “With LEGALLY BLONDE performing in the Getaway Theater, along with BURN THE FLOOR, world-class comedy by THE LEVITY ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, magic in the previously announced ILLUSIONARIUM, THE GRAMMY EXPERIENCE, and all of the other entertainment offerings, we continue our commitment on Norwegian Getaway to offer guests the best entertainment experience possible.”
Headlining the 787-seat Getaway Theater is the seven-time Tony Award nominated Broadway musical, LEGALLY BLONDE. Liverpool Confidential has called the show, “Kind-hearted, comical and camp, Legally Blonde – The Musical is right up there with Mamma Mia! and Hairspray.”
LEGALLY BLONDE tells the story of Elle Woods who, after being dumped by her boyfriend, follows him to Harvard Law School to win him back. With the help of some new-found friends, she learns that it’s so much better to be smart.
The show opened on Broadway at the Palace Theater on April 29, 2007 and closed in 2008 after playing 595 performances. The show was also one of London’s most popular West End shows, where it played at the Savoy Theatre and won three Laurence Olivier Awards, including one for “Best New Musical.”
In addition to being a bona fide Broadway hit musical, LEGALLY BLONDE is a global success and is currently touring in Australia.
Offering shows in both the Getaway Theater and more intimate performances, dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR will dazzle guests with their re-invented ballroom dancing.
Beginning with, and maintaining all the wonderful traditions and the social history of the Ballroom dance art form, BURN THE FLOOR is a groundbreaking show, serving as a melting pot of styles, energy and excitement for today’s generation of dancers. It is Ballroom “supercharged.”
During the course of the show, the dancers perform all the Ballroom and Latin styles, including The Waltz, Cha Cha, Samba, Salsa, Rumba, Foxtrot, Quickstep,
Mambo, Tango, Swing, Jive, Lindy Hop, Viennese Waltz, and Paso Doble. The music is eclectic, from Swing and Waltz classics to J-Lo and Credence Clearwater. Two vocalists perform in many languages during the show, including English, Spanish and Portuguese.
The show premiered in London in 1999 and toured the US for the first time in 2000, including performances at Radio City Music Hall. After touring around the world, in a variety of countries, including Japan, Singapore and Australia, BURN THE FLOOR premiered on Broadway in 2009. Originally intended to be a limited run, the show opened to rave reviews in New York and extended its original run into January 2010, performing 193 shows. Already staged in more than 300 cities globally, BURN THE FLOOR is currently in the midst of its World Tour of the Broadway Production with dates in Holland, Australia, South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea and Japan, and will return to the US later this year before joining Norwegian Getaway in 2014.
Norwegian Getaway will feature multiple, specially-designed entertainment venues throughout the ship so that guests can choose from a wide variety of entertainment each evening of their cruise with choices to appeal to a broad audience.
Headliners Comedy Club on Norwegian Getaway will feature top-tier comedians presented through the line’s new partnership with Levity Entertainment Group, the world’s largest producer of live comedy. Levity employs over 300 artists nationwide each week, creating special events, original tours, and television specials with some of the biggest names in comedy, including Daniel Tosh, Amy Shumer, B ill Cosby, Gabriel Iglesias and Jeff Dunham, who is currently the most successful touring comedian worldwide. Levity packages and produces best-in-class talent for all live experiences, including premium comedy clubs, international comedy festivals, corporate events and large-scale arena and stadium shows. Levity will bring a new level of comedy entertainment on board Norwegian Getaway, offering 12 shows per week.
The world’s greatest rock n’ roll dueling piano show, Howl at the Moon, which received rave reviews on Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Breakaway, will also be featured in Headliners on board Norwegian Getaway. This total entertainment experience features talented piano players who not only entertain the guests; they make the guests part of the show. The fun is centered around two baby grand pianos and a full out rock show with Howl’s entertainers playing the best music from 70’s rock to hip-hop for four hours per show. Howl at the Moon, with multiple locations across the United States, encourages people to channel their inner rock star, so guests should get ready to clap, sing, dance and howl.
Currently being built at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Getaway will be 146,600 gross tons and offer a wide range of accommodations. The ship represents an opportunity for the Norwegian guest to “get away” from the routine of work, school, and daily stress, and find a true respite at sea that reflects the energy and culture that Miami is known for worldwide.
Norwegian Breakaway Arrives in New York
Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship Norwegian Breakaway arrived in New York City on 7 May 2013 where she will be based. In a statement, Norwegian said:
Following months of anticipation, Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway, arrived early this morning to her year-round homeport of New York City. The 146,600 gross ton ship, which is the largest ever to call Manhattan its home, will be christened on Wednesday, May 8 during an exclusive ceremony featuring New York City icons The Rockettes®, Chef Geoffrey Zakarian, Master Baker Buddy Valastro, star of TLC’s “Cake Boss,” and New York City officials, among others. Her signature hull art, designed by legendary artist Peter Max, is highly visible from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal’s Pier 88.
“Norwegian Breakaway is New York’s ship and we are thrilled to finally have her home,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “From world-class dining to high-caliber entertainment, we’ve definitely encapsulated the best of New York onboard Norwegian Breakaway and are looking forward to
welcoming guests on May 12 for her first seven-day cruise to Bermuda.”
More than 4,000 guests will take part in the ship’s Christening Ceremony at 2 pm ET on Wednesday, May 8. A live webcast of the ceremony will be available at www.breakaway.ncl.com. In addition, fireworks will light up the skyline (taking place near the Statue of Liberty) at approximately 8:30 pm Wednesday evening.
Norwegian Breakaway’s journey to New York began on April 25 in Bremerhaven, Germany after Norwegian Cruise Line officially took delivery of the ship. Norwegian Breakaway left the port of Bremerhaven and, following several inaugural events in Rotterdam and Southampton, she embarked upon a transatlantic cruise to New York City. On May 12, she will sail to Bermuda to start her series of seven-day cruises through October. In the fall, Norwegian Breakaway will offer seven-day voyages from the heart of Manhattan to the Bahamas and Florida, as well as two 12-day sailings to the Southern Caribbean.
Following months of anticipation, Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway, arrived early this morning to her year-round homeport of New York City. The 146,600 gross ton ship, which is the largest ever to call Manhattan its home, will be christened on Wednesday, May 8 during an exclusive ceremony featuring New York City icons The Rockettes®, Chef Geoffrey Zakarian, Master Baker Buddy Valastro, star of TLC’s “Cake Boss,” and New York City officials, among others. Her signature hull art, designed by legendary artist Peter Max, is highly visible from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal’s Pier 88.
“Norwegian Breakaway is New York’s ship and we are thrilled to finally have her home,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “From world-class dining to high-caliber entertainment, we’ve definitely encapsulated the best of New York onboard Norwegian Breakaway and are looking forward to
welcoming guests on May 12 for her first seven-day cruise to Bermuda.”
More than 4,000 guests will take part in the ship’s Christening Ceremony at 2 pm ET on Wednesday, May 8. A live webcast of the ceremony will be available at www.breakaway.ncl.com. In addition, fireworks will light up the skyline (taking place near the Statue of Liberty) at approximately 8:30 pm Wednesday evening.
Norwegian Breakaway’s journey to New York began on April 25 in Bremerhaven, Germany after Norwegian Cruise Line officially took delivery of the ship. Norwegian Breakaway left the port of Bremerhaven and, following several inaugural events in Rotterdam and Southampton, she embarked upon a transatlantic cruise to New York City. On May 12, she will sail to Bermuda to start her series of seven-day cruises through October. In the fall, Norwegian Breakaway will offer seven-day voyages from the heart of Manhattan to the Bahamas and Florida, as well as two 12-day sailings to the Southern Caribbean.
P&O Cruises' Ventura Refurbished
P&O Cruises has unveiled the changes made to its cruise ship Ventura. P&O Cruises said:
"A multi-million pound refurbishment has been carried out to Ventura to incorporate features which have proved popular with passengers on sister ship Azura.
Successful concepts from Azura, such as The Glasshouse, The Retreat, menus designed by Michelin-star chef Atul Kochhar in speciality restaurant East and single cabins have all been introduced on board Ventura as
part of P&O Cruises ongoing refit programme.
Highlights include:
The Glasshouse
· The Glasshouse has been introduced, to replace Las Ramblas bar and restaurant on Deck 7
· Installation of enomatic wine system allows passengers to buy premium wines by the glass selected by TV wine expert Olly Smith
· Conversion to The Glasshouse menu with a selection of small and large plates available for lunch and dinner (additional charge). Small plates include: chorizo, pork belly and butter bean cassoulet and larger plates
include a selection of steak, burger and fish dishes with triple cooked chips as well as vegetarian options including woodland mushroom and spring onion risotto with melting camembert
East
· East now features a new menu designed by Michelin-star celebrity chef Atul Kochhar
· Atul has devised a unique Thai/Indonesian menu, which also includes influences from Malaysian and Vietnamese cuisine. Sample dishes include:
-24 Hour Slow Cooked Lamb Rendang - Indonesian style curry with coconut milk, shallots,
garlic and ginger
-Spiced Sea Bream – wrapped in banana leaf and griddled with shallots and green chillies
Atul Kochhar said: “Exploring flavours from across the Far East, including Indonesia and Thailand, this new and exciting menu showcases modern Asian cuisine. Incorporating mystical spices with subtle
ingredients this menu is inspired by my travels throughout Asia and my love of spice.”
Single cabins
· 18 new single cabins added: 12 outside and six inside
· Located in the same area as Azura, adjacent to the Exchange Bar on Deck
6, a central location
The Retreat
· Installation of The Retreat into the forward area on Deck 16
· The Retreat is a sumptuous open-air spa terrace with sun loungers, a separate pool and stunning sea views, exclusively for adults
· Passengers can buy a full day pass to The Retreat for a small cover charge
Other changes
· The atrium features a new dance floor which will host dance lessons day and night
with a live band in the evening
· Ventura is now fully wi-fi enabled
· The cyberstudy has been converted into the ship’s new library (with some fixed PCs)
· A new perfumery has replaced the old library
· A new enomatic wine system has been introduced in Waterside, the ship’s buffet restaurant. This self-service system allows passengers to buy premium wines by the glass, similar to The Glasshouse, by
purchasing a wine card on board
P&O Cruises managing director Carol Marlow said: “This is the latest of several refits to our fleet. Oriana and Oceana have already had multi-million pound investments and Arcadia will be at the end of the year. We are delighted with the changes on Ventura. All of the enhancements have been made following feedback from both existing passengers and potential cruisers. Research showed that speciality restaurants were very important as well as a variety of dining with premium grills, classic fine dining, Asian and Indian menus being the most popular.
“As a result we have added these innovations onto Ventura. We have a new Asian Fusion menu in East, designed by Atul Kochhar and we added The Glasshouse grill and wine bar, both of which have proved so popular on
Azura.
“Following the success of the single cabins on Azura and Oriana, we also now have 18 new single cabins on Ventura. This offers an attractive and cost effective option to solo travelers.
“The Retreat has also been a huge hit with passengers on Azura and so we now have the same concept on Ventura. The Retreat offers a private area, exclusively for adults and is the perfect place to relax, unwind
and be pampered.
“All in all, these changes are very well suited to passengers seeking a relaxed and contemporary cruising experience – perfect for families, friends and couples alike. We are very excited to have these latest innovations in time for
Ventura’s new fly-cruise programme to the Mediterranean next summer. Our passengers can enjoy some of Europe’s most iconic destinations in greater style and even more comfort on our new-look Ventura.”
"A multi-million pound refurbishment has been carried out to Ventura to incorporate features which have proved popular with passengers on sister ship Azura.
Successful concepts from Azura, such as The Glasshouse, The Retreat, menus designed by Michelin-star chef Atul Kochhar in speciality restaurant East and single cabins have all been introduced on board Ventura as
part of P&O Cruises ongoing refit programme.
Highlights include:
The Glasshouse
· The Glasshouse has been introduced, to replace Las Ramblas bar and restaurant on Deck 7
· Installation of enomatic wine system allows passengers to buy premium wines by the glass selected by TV wine expert Olly Smith
· Conversion to The Glasshouse menu with a selection of small and large plates available for lunch and dinner (additional charge). Small plates include: chorizo, pork belly and butter bean cassoulet and larger plates
include a selection of steak, burger and fish dishes with triple cooked chips as well as vegetarian options including woodland mushroom and spring onion risotto with melting camembert
East
· East now features a new menu designed by Michelin-star celebrity chef Atul Kochhar
· Atul has devised a unique Thai/Indonesian menu, which also includes influences from Malaysian and Vietnamese cuisine. Sample dishes include:
-24 Hour Slow Cooked Lamb Rendang - Indonesian style curry with coconut milk, shallots,
garlic and ginger
-Spiced Sea Bream – wrapped in banana leaf and griddled with shallots and green chillies
Atul Kochhar said: “Exploring flavours from across the Far East, including Indonesia and Thailand, this new and exciting menu showcases modern Asian cuisine. Incorporating mystical spices with subtle
ingredients this menu is inspired by my travels throughout Asia and my love of spice.”
Single cabins
· 18 new single cabins added: 12 outside and six inside
· Located in the same area as Azura, adjacent to the Exchange Bar on Deck
6, a central location
The Retreat
· Installation of The Retreat into the forward area on Deck 16
· The Retreat is a sumptuous open-air spa terrace with sun loungers, a separate pool and stunning sea views, exclusively for adults
· Passengers can buy a full day pass to The Retreat for a small cover charge
Other changes
· The atrium features a new dance floor which will host dance lessons day and night
with a live band in the evening
· Ventura is now fully wi-fi enabled
· The cyberstudy has been converted into the ship’s new library (with some fixed PCs)
· A new perfumery has replaced the old library
· A new enomatic wine system has been introduced in Waterside, the ship’s buffet restaurant. This self-service system allows passengers to buy premium wines by the glass, similar to The Glasshouse, by
purchasing a wine card on board
P&O Cruises managing director Carol Marlow said: “This is the latest of several refits to our fleet. Oriana and Oceana have already had multi-million pound investments and Arcadia will be at the end of the year. We are delighted with the changes on Ventura. All of the enhancements have been made following feedback from both existing passengers and potential cruisers. Research showed that speciality restaurants were very important as well as a variety of dining with premium grills, classic fine dining, Asian and Indian menus being the most popular.
“As a result we have added these innovations onto Ventura. We have a new Asian Fusion menu in East, designed by Atul Kochhar and we added The Glasshouse grill and wine bar, both of which have proved so popular on
Azura.
“Following the success of the single cabins on Azura and Oriana, we also now have 18 new single cabins on Ventura. This offers an attractive and cost effective option to solo travelers.
“The Retreat has also been a huge hit with passengers on Azura and so we now have the same concept on Ventura. The Retreat offers a private area, exclusively for adults and is the perfect place to relax, unwind
and be pampered.
“All in all, these changes are very well suited to passengers seeking a relaxed and contemporary cruising experience – perfect for families, friends and couples alike. We are very excited to have these latest innovations in time for
Ventura’s new fly-cruise programme to the Mediterranean next summer. Our passengers can enjoy some of Europe’s most iconic destinations in greater style and even more comfort on our new-look Ventura.”
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Cruise News Items and Press Releases
