Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia, Jennifer Vandekreeke, today addressed an audience of women and men at an International Women’s Day event in Sydney, Inspiring Greatness - hosted by Jito Connected and sponsored, in part by Carnival Australia.

Speaking to a crowd of key travel industry representatives at the event, Ms Vandekreeke urged women to be brave and courageous, not perfect.

“Girls are taught to be perfect, boys are taught to be brave. If you don’t believe me, think about which uniform is more suited to climbing to the top of the monkey bars in the school playground?”

Ms Vandekreeke brought her thinking to life by sharing inspiring examples of fearless women who’ve had the courage to step into leadership roles, such as Carnival Cruise Line President, Christine Duffy.

“Years ago, Christine Duffy was rejected by Pan Am as a stewardess because she was less than 5’2”, so instead she took her love of travel to work as a travel agency receptionist. Through hard work, dedication and measured risk taking, she rose through the ranks to become the President of the largest cruise line in the world - Carnival Cruise Line. She now oversees 26 ships, 40,000 employees and the vacation dreams of 5-million guests annually,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

In a step to make the Inspiring Greatness event as practical as possible, Ms Vandekreeke was one of four women to host a ‘hard skills’ bootcamp at the event today. Her finance focussed session was driven by an observation that all too often women shy away from the numbers, which holds them back from achieving greater success in business.

“Too many times I’ve heard women say out loud ‘I hate numbers’ but with men I virtually never hear that phrase. As women, we need to get comfortable with the numbers because at the end of the day, strong financial acumen is a key attribute to success.”

Now in its second year, the Inspiring Greatness event was started by Jito Connected. The event’s vision is to inspire women at all levels of leadership and open up a conversation that will create a ripple effect in helping Australians’ to encourage other women to greatness. Carnival Australia is one of the key sponsors and partners of the event, among others.



7 March, 2018
P&O Cruises Australia to Farewell Pacific Eden Ahead of Golden Princess’ Arrival


P&O Cruises Australia today announced that Pacific Eden would leave its fleet next year as part of the cruise line’s commitment to refresh its fleet over time.


A commercial arrangement has been reached to transfer the ship in April 2019 as part of P&O Cruises’ preparation for the arrival of the more modern and larger 2600-guest Golden Princess in 2020.


And P&O Cruises also announced it would start offering voyages on Golden Princess before the end of this year.


President of P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Australia, Sture Myrmell, said today’s announcement regarding Pacific Eden was a deliberate step to take the home grown cruise brand forward.


“While we are always sad to farewell ships, this is an exciting step forward for the brand and consistent with our comments over the past six months that the P&O Cruises Australia fleet was ready to be refreshed over time,” Mr Myrmell said.


“This development is proof positive that we are on the course of ensuring P&O Cruises Australia has the right ships for a contemporary brand operating in a competitive market.”


In September last year, Carnival Australia made a series of announcements about the local deployment across its brands, including a decision to refresh the P&O Cruises’ fleet over time.


Pacific Eden joined the local fleet at the end of 2015 and was one of the first ships to be transformed to reflect P&O’s modern Australian look-and -feel.


“I have a lot of affection for Pacific Eden because of her important role in bringing to life the distinctly modern P&O product with its signature spaces and refined decor, which have since been reflected on Pacific Explorer,” Mr Myrmell said.


“Pacific Eden gave us opportunities to take our product in a new direction, and we are primed to keep transforming our fleet with the addition of Golden Princess in 2020.


“We are currently working on itineraries for Golden Princess and I am pleased to confirm these will be on sale before the end of the year, which gives our loyal guests much to be excited about.”


Pacific Eden’s final voyage will depart on 16 March 2019 before being transferred to a new operator in early April 2019.  The new operator has asked for its details to remain confidential until such time as it is ready to make its own announcement.


P&O Cruises Australia will assist those guests who are booked on Pacific Eden after this date to make alternative arrangements, including their choice of:


Rebooking on an equivalent or near equivalent cruises on other P&O Cruises’ ships

Providing a full refund to guests for whom no alternative cruise choice is suitable (any guest whose cruise is cancelled can choose to obtain a full refund).


With more than a year to go before Pacific Eden exits the P&O Cruises fleet, P&O will contact all guests over the coming weeks to provide further information on alternative options.


“We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause some guests and will work hard to find alternatives for those whose holiday plans are affected in a year’s time when Pacific Eden leaves the fleet in April 2019,” Mr Myrmell said.


“We also thank guests for their patience because it is likely to take some weeks to put everything in place."







7 March, 2018
Pacific Jewel’s Makeover Begins


P&O Cruises’ Pacific Jewel has begun a makeover which will bring a fresh and modern look and feel to the ship’s popular public spaces and venues.


Over the next 10 days, the 70,310-tonne vessel will be fitted with a range of new features and furnishings including an outdoor barefoot lawn bowling green first introduced on Pacific Explorer last year.


Following positive reviews from guests on Pacific Explorer and Pacific Dawn, Shell & Bones will make its debut on Pacific Jewel serving up locally sourced seafood, grill and vegetarian dishes.


The ship’s well-known public areas will be redesigned to mirror the striking contemporary look which has become a trademark of the P&O fleet in recent years.


Orient Bar continues as a live-music venue with sumptuous soft furnishings made from luxe fabrics for guests to sit back and enjoy live jazz and blues as well as comedy shows.


Popular lounge spot Connexions Bar takes on a summer-inspired pub theme with custom-printed fabrics and botanical patterns inspired by The Explorer Hotel on Pacific Explorer.


Close to the pool area, Pacific Jewel’s café adopts a light, bright and beachy feel for the perfect morning coffee and poolside Spanish-style snacks; while child-free retreat The Oasis will showcase new nautical-inspired lounge-beds.




At the heart of the ship, the Atrium will be revamped to exude a high-end residential feel thanks to new soft furnishings and coral-inspired artworks and accessories.


Pacific Jewel’s finishing touch will be the Southern Cross livery emblazoned on her hull, now a signature feature of P&O’s fleet.


The makeover will be carried out in the privately-managed dry-dock at Garden Island in Sydney.  It is the last dry-dock able to accommodate large ships in Australia.


The refit comes as P&O prepares for its biggest year of New Zealand cruising, with Pacific Jewel undertaking 22 roundtrip cruises from Auckland between March and August 2018, up from 15 in 2017.






6 March, 2018
AROUND THE WORLD IN 102 DAYS: AZAMARA WORLD VOYAGE DEPARTS SYDNEY2


Avid world travellers will depart on a grand 102-day World Journey on 7 March 2018 from Sydney to London via 29 countries and 61 ports of call, aboard luxury boutique cruise ship Azamara Journey.

The sold-out, once in a lifetime itinerary onboard the 690-guest vessel will host guests from all over the world, including a contingent of Aussies, and call at 29 countries along the way, including visits to Whitsunday Islands, Australia; Brunei; Yangon, Myanmar; the Suez Canal;  Mykonos, Greece; and Seville, Spain to name just a few.


“102 days, 61 ports, 29 countries, 18 late nights, 14 overnights and eight AzAmazing Evenings - all without repeating a port. The Azamara World Journey truly is a trip of a lifetime, filled with limitless authentic cultural opportunities from one side of the world to the other,” says Adam Armstrong, managing director, Azamara Club Cruises Australia and New Zealand.


“And, we couldn’t be more thrilled it’s kicking off from right here in our corner of the world, from Sydney, Australia.”

The epic cruise across the globe will also make stops to allow guests to experience some of the world’s most incredible events, including the Cannes Film Festival in France and the Monaco Grand Prix.


Many of the crew aboard the ship will be working for the full journey meaning guests and officers have plenty of time to enjoy getting to know each other.


The ship underwent a multimillion dollar revitalisation in 2016, and with amenities such as a library, spa & fitness centre, five fine dining options, a casino and a cabaret theatre, it said to resemble a boutique hotel with a country club atmosphere.


A stateroom on board Azamara Journey for the 115-day voyage attracted fares from AUD$39,000 per person. The inclusive fare ensures guests have everything they need for four months at sea, including flights, some hotel stays, special events, port transfers, all main meals, alcoholic beverages, internet access, laundry and even up to USD$1000 bonus onboard credit.


This is in addition to the cruise line’s signature complimentary on-shore events, dubbed ‘Azamazing Evenings’ and renowned for providing guests with an authentic and exclusive experience of the local culture of a destination. Throughout the World Journey, there will be nine AzAmazing Evenings, including the “Aman Budaya Art Centre Extravaganza” in Bali.


With smaller ships that are able to go to places other cruise ships can’t, Azamara differentiates itself - and gains loyal fans – by making destinations the star of the show. It’s Cruise Global, Connect Local programmes encourage guests to take in the sights, sounds and flavours of local cultures in every port, while Azamara’s signature AzAmazing Evening events bring guests a complimentary unique cultural experience on each cruise.


To make a booking or for further information visit www.azamaraclubcruises.com, phone 1800 754 500 or contact your local travel agent.






5 March, 2018 
Why Australians have fallen in love with cruising the last frontier


Australians are choosing to cruise Alaska in record numbers, as premium cruise line Celebrity Cruises prepares to send three ships to the region for the 2018 summer season to cater to the incredible demand.

“The number of Australians choosing an Alaskan cruise with Celebrity has grown by more than 100 per cent over the past five years – a phenomenal increase which is significantly higher than the industry-wide upward trend for Alaska cruising,” said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Celebrity Cruises Australia & New Zealand.

Industry-wide, CLIA reported that Australians choosing to cruise Alaska increased by 25.5 per cent in 2016, while Celebrity Cruises saw growth of over 65 per cent during the same year.

“It’s no surprise cruising in the region is growing at such a rate of knots amongst Australians, given Alaska is one of the most spectacular destinations in the world, renowned for its distinct and diverse flora, fauna and landscapes. What’s more, exploring it from the comfort of a modern luxury Celebrity ship allows you to experience incredible sights and wildlife which can only be seen from the water,” Armstrong continued.

Between May and September 2018, thousands of Australians will experience Alaska’s magnificent scenery onboard three of Celebrity’s beautifully modern cruise ships; Celebrity Solstice, Australia’s highest rated cruise ship according to Berlitz, Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Infinity.

Together, the three ships will offer 50 Alaskan itineraries and visit 13 different ports of call, including scenic cruising through some of the region’s most famous waterways, such as the Hubbard Glacier, Tracy-Arm Fjord and Alaska’s Inside Passage.

And in 2019, Celebrity’s capacity in the region will increase by 20% when Solstice’s sister ship Celebrity Eclipse joins the Alaska-based fleet, taking the place of Celebrity Infinity, which will transition to Europe.

Adding a USA or Canada land-based holiday to a cruise itinerary has never been simpler with four diverse departure points to choose from – Vancouver (Canada), British Columbia (Canada), Seattle (Washington, USA) and Seward (Alaska, USA).

And to help guests really get under the skin of Alaska, Celebrity offers 11 distinct Cruisetours ranging from nine to 13 nights, letting Australian travellers pair a modern luxury sailing with a guided land tour that takes them deep into the heart of the last frontier, complete with luxury motor coaches, glass-domed trains, authentic lodging and a knowledgeable, local tour director who’s with them every step of the way.

During their cruise, guests can choose from 500 unique shore excursions, including the most popular shore excursions amongst Australians travellers; White Pass Railroad and Alaskan Dog-Sled Experience in Skagway, and the Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau.

Back onboard, Celebrity ships are known for their modern spaces, luxurious personal touches together with the finest in wine and dining. In addition, Celebrity Solstice boasts the Lawn Club; a half acre of real, manicured grass on the top deck where guests can enjoy the perfectly paired Taste of Film experience.

Celebrity Solstice will sail predominantly from Seattle in the USA in 2018, operating seven-night Tracy-Arm Fjord and Alaska Inside Passage itineraries, with calls to Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway in Alaska, as well as Victoria in British Columbia. Celebrity Infinity will sail from Vancouver in Canada, operating seven-night roundtrip Hubbard Glacier and Inside Passage itineraries, with calls to Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska. Meanwhile, Celebrity Millennium will offer a variety of seven and eight-night open-jaw options from either Vancouver, British Columbia or Seward, Alaska.

Celebrity Millennium departs Vancouver for Seward on 10 May 2018 for an eight-night Alaska itinerary, marking the start of Celebrity Cruises’ Alaska cruising season.

Balcony fares start from AU$2,219/NZ$2,499 per person, twin share for a seven-night sailing on Celebrity Solstice, departing Vancouver on 11 May 2018 and calling at Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway in Alaska, Victoria in British Columbia, Canada, together with scenic cruising through Alaska’s Inside Passage and the Tracy Arm Fjord. Ending in Seattle, the fare includes savings of up to $200 per person plus a free Premium Beverage Package per person and US$300 Onboard Credit per stateroom.






28 February, 2018
Cunard Announces New Australian Partnerships
for Record Season Down Under



Luxury cruise brand Cunard is about to take on a distinctly Aussie flavour, with the cruise line today announcing an unparalleled series of partnerships with leading Australian companies ahead of a record season Down Under for its luxurious Queen Elizabeth.

Under the move, Cunard will join forces with four key brands during Queen Elizabeth’s two-month Australian season in February and March 2019 including:


Famous fashion brand R.M.Williams
Australia’s iconic Akubra hats
Award-winning Melbourne-based boutique whisky distillery STARWARD
Acclaimed national dance company Australian Dance Theatre.
The move will see Cunard’s famous Bellboys swap their trademark red and black uniforms for a new Australian outfit to be designed by R.M.Williams and Akubra and worn throughout Queen Elizabeth’s local season.

Under its partnership with STARWARD, Queen Elizabeth’s top decks will become home to some very special cargo – a 225-litre barrel of Australian whisky, to be known as The Seafarer.  Loaded in Sydney yesterday, the whisky will spend 12 months travelling the world on Queen Elizabeth’s open decks before it is opened next February at the start of the ship’s 2019 Australian season.

Meanwhile, Australia’s longest-running contemporary dance company, Australian Dance Theatre (ADT), will also be leaping onboard. The ADT’s partnership with Cunard will create the cruise line’s first ever special event cruise in Australian waters, featuring a bespoke performance of ADT’s latest international work, “The Beginning of Nature”, as well as special workshops and movement classes for guests.

Announcing the partnerships onboard Queen Elizabeth in Sydney today, Sture Myrmell, President of Carnival Australia which represents Cunard, said the initiatives broke new ground for Cunard and reflected the cruise line’s increasingly strong commitment to the Australian market.

“These partnerships are designed to embrace Australian products and culture and celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s 2019 season Down Under, which sets a new record for Cunard’s current fleet of Queens,” Mr Myrmell said.

“All our partners are respected names in their fields so we’re delighted to join forces with them for the season with a range of initiatives which we think will be very popular – and maintain Cunard’s tradition of turning heads in this market.”

Australians’ interest in holidays at sea – and cruises with Cunard – has surged since Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth’s predecessor, QE2, brought Sydney to a standstill when they visited the city together in 2007. The number of Australians taking cruise holidays annually has leapt from 251,000 in 2007 to almost 1.3 million in 2016.

Recognising the demand, Cunard decided to base Queen Elizabeth in Australian waters for an unprecedented two months next year, with 27 different cruise itineraries on offer as she sails from Sydney and Melbourne.

The cruise line has this month announced it will go even further the following summer, with Queen Elizabeth set to return to Australian waters for an extraordinary 101 days of cruising, from December 2019 to March 2020.

Details of the new partnerships onboard Queen Elizabeth include:

R.M.Williams and Akubra – The famous clothing brands will collaborate with Cunard to create a new uniform for Queen Elizabeth’s Bellboys to wear during their Australian season.  While the uniform is yet to be designed, it will incorporate an Akubra hat and R.M. Williams’ trademark boots and will reflect the relaxed feel of an Australian summer while still upholding the quality all three brands are known for.

“We are immensely proud of our Australian heritage at R.M.Williams,” R.M.Williams Chief Marketing Officer Mathew Hayward said. “This collaboration with Cunard is the chance to unite two iconic brands across land and sea and showcase R.M.Williams onboard Queen Elizabeth during its 2019 season Down Under.”

“Akubra hats are an iconic symbol of Australia,” Akubra General Manager Sales & Marketing Andrew Angus said “They’re made here, but are worn all over the world so we’re very excited to be taking them to sea with Cunard next year.”

STARWARD – The 225-litre barrel of modern single malt whisky, to be known as The Seafarer, will spend 12 months travelling the world on Queen Elizabeth’s decks. Aged for two years previously at STARWARD’s Port Melbourne distillery, its maturation will be aided by the motion of the ocean, the salt of the sea air and changing climates along the journey. The barrel will be opened and the whisky made available onboard Queen Elizabeth and at STARWARD’s distillery bar once the ship begins her history-making season of cruises from Australia in February 2019. As part of their partnership, STARWARD and Cunard will donate bottles of The Seafarer to raise funds for charity.

“We are so proud of our ambitious local whisky’s achievements on the international awards scene,” STARWARD founder David Vitale said. “Winning these awards has been a result of our dedication to using quality Australian ingredients, particularly Australian wine barrels. Now this barrel of whisky will travel the world and bring to market a distinctively Australian whisky with a little taste of our global ambition.”

Australian Dance Theatre –The award-winning ADT will create a bespoke performance of its latest work The Beginning of Nature to be performed onboard Queen Elizabeth during its 2019 Australian season, while the ship’s company will also stage workshops and movement classes for ship guests. This will be the first performance at sea for the ADT which is known around the world for its pioneering works.

“Australian Dance Theatre is thrilled to have been chosen alongside some of the nation’s most iconic brands to participate in what is a unique opportunity to showcase all things quintessentially Australian on one of the world’s most famous cruise ships,” Australian Dance Theatre Executive Director Shaun Comerford said.
“Our dancers have performed in some pretty spectacular places, from the Sydney Opera House to the most prestigious theatres of Paris, London and New York, and we are excited to add Cunard's famous Queen Elizabeth to that list.”

At 90,900 tonnes, the 2080-guest Queen Elizabeth is the second largest ship ever to sail in Cunard’s fleet.  Launched in 2010, she is also the youngest in the cruise line’s current trio of Queens with features including more than 10 restaurants and cafes, a Games Deck featuring paddle tennis, croquet and bowls, a two-storey library, a ballroom and a three-deck Royal Court Theatre seating 800 guests and offering private boxes.






27 February, 2018
RCL CRUISES ANNOUNCES ASIA PACIFIC LEADERSHIP CHANGES

Royal Caribbean has today announced the resignation of its Associate Vice President and Managing Director in Australia & New Zealand, Adam Armstrong.


Adam has been with the business since 2009, when Royal Caribbean opened its local office, and is leaving to pursue other interests, effective August 2018.


Adam first joined the company as Commercial Manager as one of the first locally-based employees. In 2016, he took on the role of Managing Director and has overseen a period of significant growth for the RCL family of brands, culminating with all three cruise lines – Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azamara – sailing down under for the past three cruise seasons.

Adam will be replaced by Susan Bonner, currently based in Miami as Vice President of Revenue Management and Onboard Revenue for Celebrity Cruises.  Susan has been with the company for over 10 years, and brings considerable skills and expertise to the role to ensure the continued success of Royal Caribbean in the region. Susan will transition to the Sydney office over the coming months.


Gavin Smith, Senior Vice President International, RCL Cruises, said that Adam’s contribution to the company has been tremendous.


“From just one ship in 2009 to six of the country's largest and most modern cruise ships in 2018, including the game-changing Ovation of the Seas, Adam has been a significant figure in shaping both the company and the modern Australasian cruiseindustry. We wish him well in his future endeavours,” said Gavin.


In announcing his departure, Adam expressed his fondness for the company and the local team.


“Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of working with some of the world’s best cruise brands and with a remarkably talented, passionate team. I have had the great fortune to steer the local business through an incredible period of growth, introduce multiple world-class ships to Australia and deliver great commercial results. I’m now looking towards my next personal challenge, and I wish Royal Caribbean and Susan all the very best for the future.”


In addition, RCL Cruises has announced that Sean Treacy, Managing Director of Singapore & South East Asia, will relocate back to Miami to take up the new role of Associate Vice President Strategic Planning for International. Sean has played a key role both in Australia and Singapore during his four years in the Asia Pacific region. Angie Stephen, currently Associate Vice President, Market Development, China, will relocate to Singapore to take on the role of Managing Director, Singapore & South East Asia.






25 February, 2018
CLIA Announces Winners of 2017 Cruise Industry Awards


Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia has revealed the winners of the 17th Annual Cruise Industry Awards.


As the biggest night on the cruise calendar, 500 members and partners of the Australian and
New Zealand industry gathered at the Star Event Centre Sydney on Saturday to celebrate the achievements of the entire Australasian cruise industry.


It was a particularly big night for Perth travel agency Bicton Travel which claimed the top gong in Australia for the fifth year in a row, making it an unprecedented seven gold Cruise Agency of the Year awards in total.


Carole Smethurst, Managing Director of Bicton Travel, said

“The secret of our success is sticking to our principles of continually training our staff with CLIA accredited training to look after our clients. We put the right people on the right cruises which ensures they are happy customers!”


Cruiseabout Kew was awarded silver and Phil Hoffman Travel took out bronze in addition to Network Promotion of the Year– Australasia for the South Australian agency’s “Mega Cruise Sales Day”.


In New Zealand, Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel won its first gold Agency of the Year award, with House of Travel Orewa taking out silver and last year’s winner, Pukekohe Travel, rounding out the cruise agency accolades with bronze.
Gerard Murphy, Director of Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel said “I am very proud of winning the New Zealand gold Agency of the Year award. We have got great people on the team and our suppliers back our innovation 100%.”
Meanwhile Clean Cruising cleaned up in two categories, wining Online Agency of the Year – Australia, and taking out the Australian Agency Promotion award.


A total of 20 awards were presented over the course of the evening including the latest entrant to the CLIA Hall of Fame - Ted Blamey. A pioneer of the local cruise industry, his 30-year cruise career spanned from Managing Director of Sitmar Cruises Australasia to President and CEO of Sitmar International, CEO of Australia’s largest retail travel group Ansett Retail/Traveland and Chairman of Sydney Ports and now, as head of CHART Management Consultants, he advises global cruise lines, destinations and government authorities.


CLIA Australasia & Asia Managing Director Joel Katz said it was a stellar evening befitting the stars of the local cruise industry.

“’The CLIAs’ are all about recognising and rewarding the outstanding achievements of member agents who have had a big year of cruise and done their part to contribute to the incredible growth of the industry,” Mr Katz said.


“We’d like to congratulate all the winners, finalists and also offer a special round of applause to all those who entered or were nominated. With so much great work right across the Australasian cruise industry in 2017, these awards are as important as ever and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to shine a light on so many talented and passionate individuals.”


Sunrise newsreader Natalie Barr hosted the evening for the first time and the sell-out audience were treated to a show-stopping performance by the incredible “Burn The Floor” dance troupe ahead of their Australian tour this year.
The major sponsors of the 2017 awards were Dubai Tourism, Emirates, World’s Leading Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean.




19 February, 2018
Cunard Announces New Record Australian Season with   Queen Elizabeth to be Based Down Under for 2019-2020 Summer


Luxury cruise line Cunard has announced that its world famous ship Queen Elizabeth will be based in Australia for an unprecedented 101 days over the 2019-20 summer.

Queen Elizabeth will sail on six roundtrip cruises from Melbourne and two from Sydney during the season, which will feature an array of itineraries to South Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea between December 2019 and March 2020.

The new 2020 Australian deployment will be almost double the length of Queen Elizabeth’s scheduled 54-day season Down Under early next year, which will see the ship sailing from Sydney and Melbourne during February-March 2019.

Cunard Senior Vice President Simon Palethorpe said Queen Elizabeth’s record 2020 season reflected the importance of the Australian cruise market to Cunard as well as Melbourne’s growing attraction as a cruise hub, with the Victorian capital providing the ship’s homeport for two months.

“Over the past few years we’ve seen unprecedented growth in demand for the Cunard experience in Australia so it made sense for us to invest further in the market and extend the sailing season of Queen Elizabeth even more in 2020,” Mr Palethorpe said.

“Our new 2019-20 summer season will not only feature more cruises, it will also offer some exciting new itinerary options which we hope will entice even more Australians to experience Cunard’s legendary service and style.”

Mr Palethorpe said the December arrival of the 2080-guest Queen Elizabeth meant she would spend Christmas in local waters - a first for Cunard’s current fleet of Queens.

Travellers will be able to sail from Melbourne to New Zealand over the festive break with Christmas Day spent cruising the Tasman Sea, Boxing Day in the tranquil waters of Fiordland National Park and New Year’s Eve in Auckland Harbour, enjoying the world’s first firework spectacular as a new decade begins.

Other cruises from Melbourne will include voyages to South Australia and Tasmania. Following her two-month Melbourne deployment, Queen Elizabeth will sail to Sydney where she will cruise on two roundtrip voyages from the city before heading north.

Her Sydney offerings will include a new 14-night cruise to Papua New Guinea, featuring the cruise line’s maiden calls to the beautiful Conflict Islands and Kiriwina in the Trobriand Islands.

Other maiden visits during the summer season include Cunard’s first call to Esperance in Western Australia, while Queen Elizabeth will be making her inaugural visits to Albany, Whitsunday Islands and Darwin.

At 90,900 tonnes, Queen Elizabeth is the second largest ship ever to sail in Cunard’s fleet.  Launched in 2010, she is also the youngest in the cruise line’s current trio of Queens with features including more than 10 restaurants and cafes, a Games Deck featuring paddle tennis, croquet and bowls, a two-storey library, a ballroom and a three-deck Royal Court Theatre seating 800 guests and offering private boxes.

Full details of the 2020 World Voyage season will be released on March 13, with the program scheduled to go on sale on March 20, 2018.






8 February, 2018




Azamara Club Cruises has announced a new onboard entertainment program, with cabaret style performances, musicians, short opera vignettes and theatre shows to be introduced across its fleet.

The refreshed entertainment concepts will be offered onboard Azamara Journey and Quest  starting in February 2018 as well as Azamara Pursuit after the inaugural sailing in August 2018.

“We look forward to providing guests with vibrant onboard entertainment to enhance their experience while sailing with us. Our new entertainment launch will bring to life classic and short plays, along with short operas and shows, by using music, Broadway stars and entertainers that engage and enthrall their audiences,” said Larry Pimentel, President and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises.

The new cabaret experience, produced by RWS Entertainment Group, will transform the Cabaret Lounge onboard to reflect the famed supper club Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York City and will feature drinks inspired by their signature cocktails, service style and ambience.

54 Below at Sea: New York City’s premier cabaret club Feinstein’s/54 Below is bringing their talent and over-the-top performances to Azamara, with a collection of Broadway’s amazing cabaret stars, comedians and instrumentalists. Unlike traditional Broadway shows, performances will be in an intimate setting that inspires and engages audiences. Top talent includes entertainers Daniel Reichard, the original Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys, Christine Pedi radio host Sirius XM – On Broadway, and David Kaplan who New York Times called one of the best classical music performers.

Azamara Club Cruises has also partnered with two extraordinary entertainment groups: City Theatre and Magic City Opera for a series of short plays and opera cabarets. This collaboration further enhances and diversifies Azamara Club Cruises’ entertainment portfolio.

City Theatre: One of Miami’s most famous and critically acclaimed acting troupes will transport guests with their famous and creative “Shorts on Ships.”  Known for being the largest troupe dedicated to ten-minute plays, the shorts draw on human emotion and cultural conversations to evoke strong audience responses – from laughter and tears to introspection!

Magic City Opera: This contemporary take on the short opera vignette experience unites music, drama, visual and literary effects. The Magic City Opera continues the great tradition of using opera as a social event and hopes to inspire onboard guests to mingle after the show and to discuss the creative arts experience.

In collaboration with Azamara, Ryan Stana, CEO of RWS Entertainment Group also noted, “The cruise line industry has seen a surge of enthusiasm and momentum behind innovations from itineraries to onboard technologies. Through the partnership with Azamara Club Cruises and Feinstein’s/54 Below, we are excited to bring a new view to entertainment programming as well. This is the first overarching branded guest entertainer experience at sea and it will be unique and different in our industry.”

Aside from the three new entertainment offerings, Azamara will continue to offer entertainment and experiences such as live local entertainment, movie nights, AzAmazing Evenings and White Night celebrations, as well as our new musical trios that will entertain throughout the ship. The Living Room will still play host to musical evenings including the guest-favorite ABBA Night.






6 February, 2018
Carnival Splendor, Australia's newest largest ship arriving 2019


The world’s largest cruise line, Carnival Cruise Line, announced today that Carnival Splendor will join its Australian fleet in Sydney next year, catering for the unprecedented demand for fun, family-friendly cruise holidays.

On her arrival through Sydney Heads in December 2019, Carnival Splendor will be the newest and largest ship home ported year-round in Australia.

Announcing the news in Australia today, Carnival Cruise Line’s President, Christine Duffy said, “Today’s announcement reflects Carnival’s serious commitment to the Australian market.”

“We’ve had over 800,000* Australians cruise with Carnival since we launched in Australia just five years ago – a number that would fill the Sydney Cricket Ground 17 times over.

“The arrival of Carnival Splendor to Sydney represents a 66% capacity increase for Carnival Cruise Line in Australia, meaning we will be in the best position to give even more Australians the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a Carnival cruise.”

Symbolic of the brand’s ongoing partnership and support for The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Carnival today also announced that Sydneysider, 6-year-old Matilda Jenkins, a patient at the hospital, is the very first Goddaughter of a Carnival ship.

On board sister ship Carnival Spirit, docked in Sydney today, Silverdale resident Matilda was officially welcomed into the Carnival family by Ms. Duffy and the crew, as she was formally announced as the Goddaughter of Carnival Splendor.

Ms. Duffy notes that the arrival of Carnival Splendor Down Under will see considerable benefits passed on to local businesses and the wider economy through the increased number of guests sailing in and out of Sydney Harbour.

“We estimate up to $1 million is contributed to the Australian market each time a ship of this size turns around in Sydney. This includes items like the fresh produce we source from local growers and farmers. For example, for a 10-day cruise, we’ll purchase almost 20,000 locally grown tomatoes and over 3,000 melons – just two of the many produce we source from across the country” said Ms. Duffy.

Following in the footsteps of sister ship Carnival Spirit, which was recently announced as Australia’s favourite year-round cruise ship^ – as rated by Australian travellers – Carnival Splendor will get a significant bow-to-stern upgrade before she sails into Sydney.
She’ll receive some of the features Australian passengers love the most, including a range of new dining experiences tailored to the local tastes of Australian guests and a brand-new waterpark.

With a capacity of 3900 guests, the 113,300 gross tonnage cruise liner will make her maiden voyage from Sydney in December 2019 after her repositioning cruise from Singapore. Thereafter, she will sail year-round from Sydney. Bookings for Carnival Splendor’s 2019 sailings will open in March of this year and sailings for 2020 will open in May/June this year.






6 February, 2018
Carnival Legend sails into new seasonal homeport of Melbourne.

Melbourne today welcomed the 2600-guest Carnival Legend to her new home port for the first of a record 16 sailings over 2018 – 2019.


The world’s largest cruise brand, Carnival Cruise Line has taken the step of basing one of its ships in Melbourne for a record season, giving locals the chance to experience its family-friendly, fun cruise holidays right from their backyard. The brand expects guests from Victoria to double in the next year.


Carnival Legend arrived at Station Pier at 6.00am today with thousands of holidaymakers who had sailed from Sydney. She will now call Melbourne home with her first cruise leaving this afternoon to New Caledonia.



Announcing the news and welcoming the ship to her new home port, Carnival Cruise Line’s President, Christine Duffy said, “Today’s news is in response to the unprecedented demand for Carnival fun in Victoria, our second biggest Australian market.”


“Since launching in 2012, over 117,000 Victorians have sailed with Carnival Cruise Line – a number which would fill the Rod Laver arena twice,” said Ms. Duffy.



Carnival Legend will undergo a A$57 million upgrade in May to further ‘Melbournise’ the ship with FunShip 2.0 features. This includes Alchemy Bar, an immersive experience featuring cocktails handcrafted by master mixologists, the Mexican-inspired BlueIguana Cantina and Tequila Bar, and Guys Burger Joint curated by Californian restaurateur and Food Network TV personality Guy Fieri.


Ms. Duffy continued with, “I understand Victorians love good coffee, so we’ve started there and upgraded our espresso machines on board, ahead of Carnival Legend’s arrival into Melbourne, ensuring guests can get their morning caffeine fix.”



These new features will accompany the existing 45 activities across 12 decks of fun on Carnival Legend, including Green Thunder – the fastest and steepest waterslide at sea, three swimming pools, the childfree Serenity Retreat and more than 20 bars, lounges and dining options.


Mornington Peninsula couple and avid Carnival lovers, Jennifer and Dennis McCarthy, said today’s news will make it even easier for them to cruise with their favourite brand.


“We’re incredibly excited about today’s news. We love everything about Carnival which is why we’ve sailed over 100 days with the brand and plan many more.


“Now with our very own ship in Melbourne we’re able to cut down on interstate travel pre-cruising and jump straight into the fun.”


Carnival Legend’s sailings boast a range of destinations including the South Pacific, with calls to ports in New Caledonia and Vanuatu, Trans-Tasman escapes to New Zealand, and quick getaways to one of Australia’s favourite destinations – Tasmania. 




29 January, 2018
Carnival Legend guests get excited for Australia Day with giant kangaroos 


Carnival Legend guests enjoyed a bit of Aussie Day fun ahead of their cruise to the South Pacific this week, thanks to giant kangaroos bouncing with excitement at the entrance of Sydney's Overseas Passenger Terminal.


The kangaroos have appeared all over the world at festivals and events and were delighted to meet fun-loving Carnival guests, preparing them for all of the entertainment onboard.



Over eight days, guests will cruise around New Caledonia with Australia Day front of mind. The ship will be dressed with Australian themed decorations, guests will be given temporary Australian flag tattoos and receive a miniature Australian flag as a souvenir. Cabin crew are also prepared for the occasion and plan to leave special kangaroo and koala towel animals in guests’ rooms.



25 January, 2018
Brand new sailings for Ovation Of The Seas announced.
Royal Caribbean extends 2018/19 season, making it Ovation’s longest season down under yet




Royal Caribbean has announced the extension of Ovation of the Seas’ third season down under due to the incredible demand for the ship. With the release of two new local sailings in March and April 2019, the extension makes 2018/19 the biggest season yet for Australia's largest, newest and most modern megaliner.


Before making her way to Alaska via Hawaii for her maiden season in the region, the ground-breaking Ovation of the Seas will sail two additional local sailings to the South Pacific and New Zealand, offering Australians even more opportunities to sample the USD$1 billion cruise ship. Ovation of the Seas will then sail a 16 night Trans-Pacific cruise to Hawaii.


Guests who have New Zealand on their bucket list can book a brand new 10-night New Zealand roundtrip departing Sydney on 30 March 2019, calling at Dunedin, Wellington, Napier and Picton, with a day of scenic cruising through Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds. Fares start from AUD$1,729 per person, twin share in an Interior stateroom, including up to 45 percent savings as part of Royal Caribbean’s huge “Seek and Save” summer sale – the line’s biggest sale of the year.


Also new is an 8-night South Pacific roundtrip, departing Sydney on 9 April 2019 and visiting Noumea in New Caledonia and Mystery Island in Vanuatu. Fares start from AUD$1,679 per person, twin share in an Interior Stateroom, including up to 45 percent savings as part of Royal Caribbean’s “Seek and Save” sale.


Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas brings incredible first-at-sea experiences to Australia, including Ripcord by iFLY, a heart-pounding skydiving experience; the North Star glass viewing pod, a stunning new way to see the world from 90 metres above sea level; and 18 restaurants, including Jamie’s Italian.


The megaliner features cutting-edge venues that change from day to night, including SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating rink and circus school; Two70, an immersive, multimedia entertainment venue complete with dancing Roboscreens; and the robotic Bionic Bar, where robots stir and shake your drinks.






22 January, 2018
AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST GAME OF HIDE AND SEEK TO
LAUNCH ON MEGASHIP


Aussies given unique opportunity to go onboard one of the world’s biggest, newest cruise ships and officially play iconic childhood game



Australia’s biggest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, will host Australia’s Biggest Game of Hide and Seek on 18 February 2018.


In an Australian first, Aussies aged eight and over will have the chance to board the megaship docked in Sydney Harbour to play a mega version of the iconic childhood game, as part of a unique competition.


“We know that Aussies are great sports, are highly competitive and have a great sense of fun so it seems fitting that what may be the world’s first official – and biggest - game of Hide & Seek at sea takes place here in Australia, on our very own Ovation of the Seas” said Ovation’s Cruise Director, Joff Eaton.


“Ovation of the Seas is the biggest, newest and most modern cruise ship ever to sail Australian waters, and with features like bumper cars, a Bionic Bar, rock-climbing wall, iFly sky-diving tunnel, FlowRider surf simulator and the North Star viewing capsule, she really is the ultimate location for this supersized game,” continued Joff.


Two games – one for adults 15 and over and another for kids aged 8-14 - will see competitors seek out secret hiding spots onboard, in an attempt to outwit the “Seekers” – played by Australia’s national Hide & Seek team, The Nascondingos, who placed eighth in the 2017 annual World Championships in Italy. The last person to be found in each game will take home the major prizes, including $10,000 and a Royal Caribbean family cruise.


“As Australia’s Hide and Seek experts, we couldn’t think of a better location to play than on the country’s biggest cruise ship! Whatever your age, this is an awesome opportunity to put those well-honed hiding skills from your childhood to use, and to discover all the action and adventure of cruise ship if you’ve never been onboard!” said Alan Jones, Nascondingo’s Team Captain.


From attempts to host unofficial games in a certain Swedish furniture store, to a campaign for Hide and Seek to appear as an official exhibition sport in Tokyo in 2020, the event launches as the game gains traction as a serious sport among people of all ages. 


With the ship almost to themselves – minus nearly 5000 guests – the initiative has been launched as Royal Caribbean celebrates 10 years in sailing down under.


The unique competition encapsulates the spirit of Royal Caribbean’s new “Come Seek” brand campaign, inviting Australians to re-consider everything they think they know about cruising.


For a chance to compete or to find out more, Australian residents can head to www.royalcaribbean.com.au/hideandseek and enter by describing their ultimate hiding spot in 25 words or less. Prizes include AUD$10,000 plus a free family cruise holiday for the Adult’s Round winner, and a free family cruise holiday for the Kid’s Round winner. Entries close 11:59pm, Monday 5 February.





20 January, 2018
Mark Philippoussis and Goran Ivanišević Warm Up for the Australian Open Tennis Legends Tournament on P&O Cruises’ Pacific Eden

Mark Philippoussis and Goran Ivanišević warm up for this weekend's Australian Open Tennis Legends Tournament on P&O Cruises’ Pacific Eden which is carrying over 1200 guests who sailed from Sydney to Melbourne for the first Grand Slam of the year.


It is nearly 20 years to the day since the duo last played each other at the Wimbledon Quarter Finals in 1998 and 15 years since Philippoussis lost the US Open Final to five-time Australian Open Champion, current title holder and this year’s tournament favourite, Roger Federer.


Philippoussis and Ivanišević are part of a legendary line-up of tennis greats starring on P&O’s Australian Open Cruises which will bring more than 3500 guests from Sydney to Melbourne for the sporting event of the summer.


The five-night cruises offer a packed onboard program that provides tennis fans with access to some of the world’s best players and tickets to all the action of the first Grand Slam of the year.




18 January, 2018
Azamara launches Australian season with new Country-Intensive voyages



Azamara Club Cruises’ brand new Country-Intensive itineraries and third season down under will launch when the boutique cruise line’s 690-guest Azamara Journey returns to Australia in January 2018.


Renowned for its destination-focused journeys, the up-market cruise line has curated a range of brand new Country-Intensive itineraries in Australia and around the world that consist of most, if not all ports of call within a single country. These itineraries combine a range of popular and smaller, lesser-known ports, as well as late-night and overnight stays.


Of the four cruises offered on Azamara Journey down under this season, two will be Country-Intensive voyages, including Azamara Journey’s first Australian itinerary for the season. The 18-night voyage departs Bali on 21 January and reaches West Australia on 24 January 2018, marking the line’s first west coast cruise and making maiden calls to Exmouth, Perth, Bunbury, Albany and Esperance in WA, as well as Adelaide and Kangaroo Island in South Australia, before arriving in Sydney on 8 February 2018.



The second local Country-Intensive, a Kiwi focused 13 night voyage, will depart Auckland on 22 February 2018 and visit the Bay of Islands, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Picton, Akaroa and Milford Sound, including three late night stays and an overnight in both Dunedin and Sydney.


Other Country-Intensive destinations offered in the new range of itineraries include Japan, Cuba and Alaska.


There’s never been a better time to book – Australians can save up to 50% on the second guest* on a range of worldwide sailings, including many Country-Intensive itineraries, when booked before 28 February 2017:

 

To make a booking or for further information visit www.azamaraclubcruises.com, phone 1800 754 500 or contact your local travel agent.




18 January, 2018
P&O AUSTRALIA DAY - UPDATE 


"Five thousand guests will be on three P&O ships in Sydney on Australia Day — Pacific Explorer and Pacific Eden moored in the harbour and Pacific Aria down from Brisbane alongside at White Bay.


These guests are no doubt looking forward to a great celebration with a range of activities that will stretch well into the night.


It is good to have this opportunity to give the context for the operational decisions we’ve made and our plans to keep the celebration rolling onboard.


The official Australia Day program in Sydney evolved over a considerable period.


It became clear that the best view of the evening program, including the fireworks display, would be limited to the immediate Circular Quay area.


And that the display would certainly not be on the scale of the much more elaborate New Year’s Eve fireworks.


In the absence of a close-up view of the fireworks, we thought it was better to sail out of the harbour in spectacular style in the late afternoon to continue the celebrations at sea. We let guests know of these plans.


Although the celebrations will continue on all three P&O ships well into the night, we are aware that a relatively small number of guests remain disappointed.


We have not offered a gesture of onboard credit across the board. If there has been a goodwill gesture it has been for extenuating circumstances on a case-by-case basis.


Our Australia Day decisions have been mainly operational in nature with the objective of delivering a fantastic cruise experience.


We think our Australia Day activities involve a pretty amazing line-up but if guests still wish to cancel we've said they can obtain a refund.


However, we are also saying that we can’t wait to welcome them on board because we don’t want them to miss out on what we think will be a special experience."


N.B Statement from official P&O spokesperson





11 January, 2018
AUSTRALIA’S HOME CRUISE BRAND GETS SET TO CELEBRATE AUSTRALIA DAY IN VINTAGE STYLE



Could you be more Aussie than Australia’s home cruise brand P&O Cruises Australia on Australia Day 2018?


Just weeks after celebrating the 85th anniversary of cruising from Australia, the P&O fleet is gearing up for another sensational Australia Day celebration.


Our national day will be celebrated across all five ships in the fleet with 9000 guests enjoying the ultimate patriotic experience. There’ll be an extravaganza of Aussie flags, lamingtons, pavlova, meat pies and music tracks featuring the icons of Australian entertainment.


Entertainment team members and other high profile staff across the fleet, for example, will be sporting colourful Australia Day t-shirts and they’ll have dashes of white zinc cream on their noses to give them that quintessential Australian summer look.


So where will the P&O ships be on January 26? Pacific Jewel will be at the aptly named Kangaroo Island, a reminder of Australia’s most famous wildlife species and a national symbol in its own right.


Pacific Dawn will be an Australian ‘island’ at sea returning to Brisbane from a cruise to the Pacific Islands.


Pacific Explorer and Pacific Eden will be moored in Sydney Harbour forming a spectacular backdrop to the Australia Day activities on the water throughout the day.


Pacific Aria, in Sydney town from Brisbane with a call to Newcastle on the way, will be alongside at White Bay Cruise Terminal with a shuttle bus operating to and from Bathurst Street near Sydney Town Hall from where guests can fan out to enjoy the many attractions of Australia’s annual birthday party.


All five ships are carrying a copious supply of Aussie flags, bunting to decorate top deck areas and the food and beverage departments have some Aussie ‘specials’ in mind — think green and gold pancakes, fabulous cake displays outside Waterfront restaurants and mini Australian flagged cupcakes.


And our younger passengers will also have a chance to be part of the celebrations because even ship ‘mascots’ TC and Skipper will be wearing Australia Day hats.


In fact there will be plenty for everyone to do across the age spectrum with attractions such as the Australian national anthem sing off, Australia Day karaoke, Australian trivia competitions, pavlova decorating workshops and an Australian movie marathon.


Any claims that pavlova originated in New Zealand will be formally ignored for the whole of January 26!


And just to give guests a lasting memory of their fabulous Australia Day, onboard Photo departments will have a special Australia Day border for photos taken on the day.


The Australia Day celebrations will go on well into the night on board all five ships in the P&O fleet.





8 January, 2018
Tennis legends Mark Philippoussis, Goran Ivanišević and Todd Woodbridge join the lineup for P&O’s 2018 Australian Open Cruises



With the Australian Open 2018 just around the corner, P&O Cruises is reminding tennis fans that the ultimate Grand Slam experience is onboard their Australian Open cruises, announcing a number of tennis greats as part of the program for their 2018 sailings.


More than 3500 guests sailing to Melbourne on Pacific Eden and Pacific Explorer will be treated to a packed program that will take them to the heart of tennis at its competitive best. With tennis fever set to hit the nation soon, fans should be quick to secure their place for 2019, with bookings now available.


Davis Cup winner Mark Philippoussis and Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanišević will join the action in 2018 when the ship docks in Melbourne, hosting a Q&A session with fans onboard Pacific Eden where they will reveal their epic career moments and insider perspectives of the 2018 Open. Meanwhile, multiple Grand Slam Doubles winner Todd Woodbridge will treat fans to a Q&A onboard Pacific Explorer when it’s in Melbourne.


The sessions will also give P&O guests the rare opportunity to be photographed with these legends of international tennis.


As official Tour Operators of the Australian Open, P&O Cruises has partnered with Tennis Australia to deliver the round trip tennis themed cruises as part of their Main Events line-up, which take all the hassle out of going to large events by including everything from tickets to transfers.


President of P&O Cruises and Carnival Australia Sture Myrmell said the popular cruises were perfect for fans wanting a unique way to experience the tennis.


“Australia is a great sporting nation and the Australian Open Grand Slam is one of the highlights on the sporting calendar. Fans are choosing to make more than a day of it, combining their love of tennis with a short break for a truly memorable experience. Our tennis themed cruises are so popular, we added an extra sailing for 2018,” Mr Myrmell said.


Guests on both Pacific Eden and Pacific Explorer will depart from stunning Sydney Harbour. Day two will be a leisurely day at sea with both ships hosting tennis greats for the trip down, including a Q&A and photo opportunity.


Pacific Eden will welcome former top-ranking tennis player Ken Rosewall. A Grand Slam winner, Ken claimed 18 major titles, made it to the final of Wimbledon four times and was a member of the winning Australian Davis Cup team on four occasions.


Pacific Explorer will host Kim Warwick, an Australian Open finalist and Davis Cup player who won four Grand Slam Doubles titles.


Day three of the cruise will be action packed, with day and night sessions at Melbourne Park, and day four will kick off with player meet and greets onboard as well as photo opportunities with the Australian Open trophies, followed by a day session at the tennis.


Day five will be a chance to relax and wind down at sea, before the final day cruising back to Sydney.


Guests won’t miss any of the action while at sea with all day and night games screened live on the big screen on the upper decks.


Passengers on Pacific Explorer can also enjoy a bespoke new tennis themed high tea menu onboard, featuring strawberries and cream, scones and savouries, all washed down with Pimms and champagne. The new high tea menu is available for $20 at the Waterfront restaurant.


Passengers travelling on Pacific Eden can practice their backhand and volleys at the outdoor tennis court on the top deck, while taking in the sea breeze and spectacular panoramic ocean views.


Pacific Eden and Pacific Explorer will depart Sydney for Melbourne on January 17 and 19 respectively. The cruises include general admission tickets for two day sessions and one night session at the


Australian Open, as well as return transfers to Melbourne Park.


Bookings for 2019 are now available. Fares start from $798.66* quad share for the 5-night round trip cruise departing Sydney on January 19, 2019.


For more information visit pocruises.com.au, call 13 24 94 or see a licensed travel agent. *subject to availability, conditions apply