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Beat The Winter Blues: It’s time to Plan Your Next Holiday

29 May, 2017

Pacific Explorer Transformation Begins 

*Fun Fact: Honey's first cruise was aboard the Dawn Princess in 2009

The final countdown is on for next month’s debut of P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer, with the ship’s multi-million dollar transformation underway in Singapore.

During her 12-day drydock, the vessel – formerly sailing as Princess Cruises’ *Dawn Princess – will undergo a massive refit which will see the addition of a range of exciting new features for Australian holidaymakers.

When she sails from Sydney on her first cruise on June 22, Pacific Explorer will be sporting the two longest and wildest waterslides on an Australian-based ship – each stretching more than 80 metres – along with an action-packed waterpark and a barefoot lawn bowling green. Top-deck favourites P&OEdge Adventure Park and the Big Screen will also be installed during the ship’s dry dock.



During her time in Singapore, Pacific Explorer’s public spaces, including its multi-storey atrium, lounges, bars and restaurants, will be transformed with the introduction of the stylish modern Australian décor and quirky features which have become a trademark of the P&O fleet in recent years.

Continuing P&O Cruises’ ongoing food evolution, Pacific Explorer’s refit will include the creation of  new dining options from fast-casual dining at Luke’s, a new poolside grill by Australian chef and restauranteur Luke Mangan to a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria called 400 Gradi, by award-winning Melbourne chef Johnny Di Francesco.

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

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

P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said Pacific Explorer was the perfect addition to P&O’s existing four-ship fleet.

“Pacific Explorer is the next stage in the evolution of P&O, building on our very popular modern Australian holiday offering with some exciting new features.  We can’t wait to show her off to our guests,” Mr Myrmell said.

Pacific Explorer will set sail from Singapore on June 9.

Pacific Explorer’s cruises include a 10-night Discover Vanuatu cruise departing Sydney on November 20, 2017. Fares start from $964* per person quad share and include up to $200 onboard credit per cabin.

Princess Cruises Takes Out Top Honour as Australia’s Most Trusted Cruise Operator

Leading cruise line Princess Cruises has been named Australia’s most trusted cruise operator in the annual Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Survey.

The recognition comes as the cruise line prepares to celebrate 10 years since it started cruising from Australia year-round.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the cruise line was honoured to have received the gong.

“We pride ourselves on the holiday experience we provide, including our exceptional customer service, so we are very excited to have been recognised with this award,” Mr Allison said.

“Since we began cruising from Australia year-round in October 2007, Princess Cruises has grown from strength to strength in the local market.

“Australians now spend more nights sailing with Princess Cruises than on any other cruise line, enjoying holidays on our local fleet of four ships which sail full-time and seasonally from Australian ports, as well as on our international fly-cruises.”

In September next year, Princess Cruises’ flagship, the stunning Majestic Princess, will arrive in Sydney for her inaugural season Down Under, in a further indication of the growing popularity of the cruise line amongst Australian holidaymakers.

Princess Cruises was selected from a field of nine ocean and river cruise operators.

The annual Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands survey has included a cruise category since 2013, with Princess Cruises being highly commended for the past four years. This year, 71 categories were featured and more than 2450 people were surveyed.

For more information visit www.princess.com

24 May, 2017

Carnival Cruise Line to Host Record Shows at Punchliner Comedy Clubs in 2017

Carnival Cruise Line will provide its guests with more laughs than ever in 2017, hosting a record 25,000 shows at its Punchliner Comedy Clubs featured across its 25-ship fleet and more than 1000 on sailings from Sydney on Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit.   

Boasting more comedians and performances than any land-based comedy club, Carnival’s Punchliner Comedy Clubs feature a hilarious lineup of top-notch comedians who each perform 30-minute shows multiple times each voyage with at least two comedians performing each night.

All shows are offered on a complimentary basis. Australian guests are treated to shows by well-known Australian comedians such as Simon Palomares, best known for his role as Ricky in the popular TV series Acropolis Now. 

Two early-evening PG-rated shows offer family-friendly comedy with kids packing the front rows and often featuring in the show, while later performances showcase more adult-oriented comedy. Around 10 shows are presented during short cruise itineraries and approximately 30 shows feature per cruise on longer length voyages to the South Pacific and New Zealand.

“Our guests love to laugh and have fun and the Punchliner Comedy Club is by far one of the most popular venues on board with both established and up-and-coming comedians who keep audiences laughing and entertained,” said Carnival Cruise Line Vice President of Entertainment Sarah Reno. 

“Plus, many guests have never been to a comedy club so this is a wonderful way for them to try something different and check out an entirely new form of entertainment,” Ms Reno said.

“We search the world for the top comedians and fly them onto each cruise for limited engagements.  Not only is Carnival one of the largest presenters of comedy in the world, we are the only cruise line to provide an authentic comedy club experience on every single voyage,” Carnival Cruise Line Senior Director of Entertainment Chris Nelson said.

Carnival’s position as the leader in comedy has also extended to its popular Carnival LIVE concert series which has added top-name comedians to its diverse entertainment lineup.  Recent comedy performances include Jay Leno, Jim Gaffigan, Chris Tucker and Kathy Griffin. Jeff Foxworthy will also be performing two shows next month aboard Carnival Freedom and Carnival Ecstasy while those ships are docked in Nassau. 

For more information and bookings call 13 31 94 or visit www.carnival.com.au

17 May, 2017

Cunard Shares Behind the Scenes Images and Video of Aft Lido Deck Being Lifted onto Queen Victoria 

 

Following Cunard’s recent announcement of plans for a AU$59 million refurbishment of Queen Victoria, the luxury cruise line has revealed behind the scenes images and video of the stunning aft lido sun deck being lifted into place at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Italy.

The exquisite extended lounge space – only one of the many highlights amongst the new and refreshed onboard features – provides guests with additional deck space and unprecedented access to rays of light from sunrise to sunset.

 

Queen Victoria was taken out of service on May 5 and is scheduled for completion on June 4, 2017. The newly refurbished ship will then return to Southampton before embarking on its maiden four night voyage, via Amsterdam and Bruges, before arriving back at Southampton.

For more information about Cunard see a travel agent, visit www.cunard.com or call 132441.

Queen Victoria Refit: Aft Lido Deck Timelapse  

15 May, 2017

Carnival Australia Brands Supercharge Record Surge in Cruise Passenger Numbers In Australia 

Australia's largest cruise operator Carnival Australia says the growth in cruising on its locally-based ships has helped fuel a staggering 21 per cent increase in the number of Australians taking an ocean cruise. 

According to new cruise industry statistics released today, an additional 222,378 Australians cruised last year, taking the number of Australian ocean cruise passengers to an unprecedented 1,281,159 in 2016.

Nearly 80 per cent of the additional 222,378 Australians who cruised in 2016 sailed on ships from Carnival Australia’s seven iconic brands: P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard, Holland America Line, Seabourn and P&O Cruises World Cruising. 

Helping to drive the growth was a massive increase in P&O Cruises’ local capacity, with the addition of Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden in November 2015, as well as a strong focus on South Pacific cruising from Carnival Cruise Line and P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises’ leadership in the New Zealand market.

Reflecting Carnival Australia's industry leadership, the 2016 Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) Australasia Australian source market report shows that the number of Australians cruising close to home on itineraries visiting Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific surged to almost one million cruisers in 2016. This equates to 76.7 per cent of all Australian passengers, up from 71.3 per cent in 2015.

Carnival Australia Executive Chairman Ann Sherry said that seven out of ten of the 1,281,159 Australians who cruised in 2016 sailed on ships operated by Carnival Australia brands.

“We are very proud of Carnival Australia's part in cruising consolidating its position as the most successful sector of Australian tourism with more than a decade of double digit annual growth in passenger numbers,” Ms Sherry said. 

“CLIA’s latest source market report also confirms the important role our full-time Australian ships play in driving cruise industry growth in this region.”

Ms Sherry said analysis of the report showed that 77 per cent of Australians who sailed from Australian home ports travelled on ships operated by Carnival Australia’s brands, while 84 per cent of Australians on domestic cruises sailed on P&O, Princess and Carnival Cruise Line ships. Moreover, one in every two Australians cruising to New Zealand sailed on a Princess Cruises’ ship

Meanwhile, 9 out of 10 Australians who sailed on world cruises did so with Carnival Australia brands Princess Cruises, Cunard and P&O Cruises World Cruising.

“The CLIA report shows that 2016 was another stellar year for cruising and a solid foundation for its economic contribution in excess of $5 billion this year supporting more than 20,000 jobs,” Ms Sherry said.

“In celebrating such stunning growth, there remains a cautionary tale. Future strong growth and economic performance can only be sustained if port infrastructure challenges particularly in Sydney are addressed.”
9 May, 2017

P&O Cruises Takes Casual Dining to Next Level on Pacific Explorer – 
Details Unveiled in Latest Program Featuring Record Brisbane and Adelaide Seasons 



P&O Cruises will soon be serving gourmet burgers and traditional Italian Neapolitan pizzas at sea, revealing plans to launch a new poolside grill called Luke’s by Australian chef and restaurateur Luke Mangan and a new partnership with popular Melbourne-based pizza maker Johnny Di Francesco on its latest ship, Pacific Explorer

The new casual dining outlets have been unveiled in the cruise line’s latest brochure, which features record ship deployments for both Brisbane and Adelaide as part of P&O’s 2018-19 offering.

For the first time, Australia’s home grown cruise line will base three ships in Brisbane, with Queensland holidaymakers able to enjoy a spring season of cruises on Pacific Jewel from September to November 2018, as well as year-round cruising on Pacific Dawn and Pacific Aria.  

Between them, the three ships are scheduled to offer 126 cruises from Brisbane in 2018 – an 18 per cent increase on 2017.  Their itineraries will feature an unprecedented 27 short three- and four-night cruises, with fares starting from $428* per person quad share for a three-night comedy cruise departing Brisbane on February 9, 2019.

Meanwhile, South Australians will be able to cruise from their doorstep in February and March 2019 with a record 12 P&O cruises on offer including Sea Breaks visiting Port Lincoln, Kangaroo Island and Melbourne. Fares start from $384* per person quad share for a three-night cruise departing Adelaide on February 2, 2019.

P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said the new program underlined the fantastic range of itineraries and onboard offerings now available across the cruise line’s five-ship fleet, including Pacific Explorer which debuts in Sydney in June this year.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The new 2018-19 program will deliver 180 cruises including 39 three-night roundtrip Sea Break cruises from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide or Auckland and more than 40 different cruises to the Pacific Islands, ranging from seven to 16 nights.

Other itinerary highlights include a new Tribute to ‘The King’ cruise, which promises to give holidaymakers one for the money as they celebrate a legend of rock and roll. Departing Sydney on June 1, 2018, the three-night Pacific Eden cruise is priced from $340* per person quad share. 

Meanwhile, P&O will return to Tasmania in June 2018 on its second Dark Mofo cruise, with the five-night roundtrip cruise from Sydney on Pacific Eden taking in two days of the fabulous winter festival. Prices start from $736* per person quad share.  

The new brochure also highlights a range of one-way Sea Breaks with more than 10 different itinerary options on offer. Fares start from $129* per person quad share for a two-night cruise between Sydney and Melbourne departing 14 November 2017.
9 May, 2017

Golden Princess Marks 75th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea



A poignant remembrance service was held onboard Golden Princess yesterday as the ship sailed off far northern Queensland, 75 years to the day since the closing stages of the pivotal Battle of the Coral Sea, regarded as the turning point of the war in the Pacific.

Guests and crew alike paused for the service to remember those who died in the biggest naval battle ever to take place near Australia and the first in naval history where two opposing fleets at no stage came within sight of each other. 

The battle raged for four days from May 4-8 in 1942 and was the first  clash to halt the advance of Japanese forces reducing the immediate threat to Australia and setting the scene for the Battle of Midway, a clear cut Allied victory, a month later. 

“Golden Princess’ current itinerary to Papua New Guinea and South Pacific destinations placed the ship off the far north coast of Queensland between Australia, PNG and the Solomon Islands on the 75th anniversary of the climactic day of the Battle of the Coral Sea,” Princess Cruises Vice President Australia and New Zealand Stuart Allison said. 

“The Battle of the Coral Sea was a pivotal moment in history and paved the way for the alliance between Australia and the United States, which endures to this day. For our Australian and American guests, the remembrance service was an opportunity to pay tribute to those who made the supreme sacrifice at a time of great peril for Australia,” Mr Allison said. 

“But it is also comforting for our guests in knowing that with the passage of time the protagonists in the battle are now firm friends and international allies.”

Two Royal Australian Navy ships, HMAS Australia and HMAS Hobart, were part of the joint US and Australian naval force involved in the series of naval engagements over the four days of the battle. 

At the time, the events of May 1942 were being followed very closely by the Australian Government with Prime Minister John Curtin making an historic statement to the Parliament as the outcome of the battle hung in the balance. 

“A great naval battle is proceeding in the south west Pacific area,” Mr Curtin told Parliament. “Nobody can tell what the result of the engagement may be. If it should go advantageously, we shall have cause for great gratitude and our position will then be a little clearer. But if we should not have the advantages from this battle for which we hope, all that confronts is a sterner ordeal, a greater and graver responsibility.”

During yesterday's remembrance service on Golden Princess, war veterans and currently serving members of the armed services played a central role. 

“It was a privilege for Golden Princess to be in vicinity of the Battle of the Coral Sea for the 75th anniversary and an honour to pay tribute to brave sailors and airmen who secured our freedom,” Mr Allison said.
9 May, 2017

Princess Cruises’ Travelling Film Festival Trilogy





Princess Cruises has announced it will bring award-winning film to the seas again this year, as it celebrates the third Travelling Film Festival at Sea on Sun Princess in November.

Lovers of cinema will enjoy a selection of high calibre film screenings curated by Sydney Film Festival Director Nashen Moodley and hosted by acclaimed film critic Richard Kuipers during the ship’s six-night roundtrip cruise from Sydney to Tasmania (November 5-11).

Featuring top hits of Sydney Film Festival, highlights will include Cannes-winning films Captain Fantastic and Mustang, the off-beat romantic comedy Maggie's Plan starring Ethan Hawke, Julianne Moore and Greta Gerwig, and Elvis and Nixon starring Kevin Spacey and Michael Shannon.
Also screening: will be Love & Friendship, Whit Stillman’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s comical early novella ‘Lady Susan’ – starring Kate Beckinsale, Chloë Sevigny, Australian actor Xavier Samuel and Stephen Fry, and Terence Davies’ Sunset Song, an adaptation of Lewis Grassic Gibbons’ Scottish literary classic of the same name, starring English model turned actress Agyness Deyn.
The floating festival is unique to Princess Cruises and a key part of the cruise line’s ongoing partnership with Sydney Film Festival.

Richard Kuipers said he was thrilled to be hosting Sydney Film Festival’s Travelling Film Festival at Sea. 

“It’s a fantastic program on a fantastic Princess Cruises’ ship and I can’t wait to welcome all film buffs onboard,” Mr Kuipers said.

The cruise will also feature a full schedule of activities highlighting the best of Sydney Film Festival, including thought-provoking Q&As with guest speakers, cocktail parties and opportunities to mingle with other movie addicts.

“The Travelling Film Festival has been a smash hit, with a festival curation unmatched in the cruising space,” Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said. 

“It’s the perfect opportunity for film lovers to immerse themselves in world class cinema, as well as enjoy a relaxing journey to Tasmania,” Mr Allison said.

Fares for the Travelling Film Festival cruise start from $899* per person twin share. The cruise will depart Sydney on November 5, 2017, with guests visiting Burnie and historic Port Arthur and enjoying an overnight stay in Hobart before returning to Sydney.

For more information, visit a licensed travel agent, call 13 24 88, or visit www.princess.com.
*Subject to availability, conditions apply
4 May, 2017

NEW TO CRUISING? BITE-SIZED ROYAL CARIBBEAN VOYAGE NOW ON SALE

Royal Caribbean releases six-night Tasmanian cruise on Explorer of the Seas, ideal for first-time cruisers

Royal Caribbean has released a new six-night Tasmania cruise onboard one of the largest and most adventure-packed cruise ship sailing in Australia, Explorer of the Seas – perfect for first time cruisers. 

Departing Sydney on Saturday 9 December 2017, the six-night round-trip cruise includes two port days and three days at sea, ideal for those dipping their toes into cruising for the first time and allowing plenty of time to experience both the amazing ship and the destinations. The voyage calls to Hobart, so guests can explore the tranquil wilderness and incredible local flavours of Tasmania, as well as to Melbourne, the shopping and cultural heart of Australia. 

“Many of our new customers opt for shorter cruises of up to six nights for their first time at sea, and once they get a taste for the fun, convenience and value of ocean cruising with Royal - they’re hooked!” said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Royal Caribbean Australia and NZ. 

“This cruise offers guests the perfect way to explore our own beautiful backyard, while treating themselves to the huge range of dining, entertainment and activities onboard,” Armstrong concluded.

The recently revitalised Explorer of the Seas is one of the largest ships sailings down under – second only to sister ship, the all-new Ovation of the Seas. The vast size of the ship means there is ample room for amazing features like the FlowRider surf machine, full size sports court, rock climbing wall, ice skating rink, a large indoor promenade lined with shops, a pub and dining venues, as well as three pools, a large theatre with Broadway-style entertainment and eight different dining venues to choose from.

Fares start from just $749per person twin share in an Interior Stateroom, including 30 percent saving and half price deposits as part of Royal Caribbean’s Endless Summer Sale, if booked before 31 May 2017.

For further information or to book a Royal Caribbean cruise, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or see your local travel agent.
2 May, 2017

FUN FILLED DAYS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: ROYAL CARIBBEAN HOSTS 2017 

CAMP QUALITY FUN DAYS


Camp Quality and Royal Caribbean have joined together again in 2017 to host Family Fun Days onboard ships throughout the country – designed to let kids impacted by cancer simply focus on having fun for the day.

2017 marks the eighth year the cruise line has supported Camp Quality, the homegrown charity helping provide innovative programs and services to develop life skills and strengthen the wellbeing of children aged 0-13 growing up with cancer, as well as their families. Royal Caribbean shoreside staff and ship crews hosted 20 families throughout the country on its megaliners, transforming the ships into the kids’ own personal playground for a day. 

Camp Quality’s National Partnerships Manager, Jane Hutchison, is thankful to Royal Caribbean for their ongoing support of Fun Days for Camp Quality. 

“Since the partnership began eight years ago with Royal Caribbean, Family Fun Days have brought a lot of joy and happiness to children and their families,” said Hutchison. “These Family Fun Days give families impacted by cancer the chance to reconnect and create memories outside the hospital.”

This year two ships from the cruise lines locally-based fleet, Voyager of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas, played host to dozens of families in Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. While onboard, families were treated to a grand buffet lunch and an action-packed day with crew from the award-wining Adventure Ocean kids club, with science and games, mini golf, rock climbing, plus surfing on Voyager of the Seas and swimming in the kid’s water park on Radiance of the Seas. 

“It’s amazing to see the children’s faces light up as they catch some waves on the FlowRider, climb to the top of the rock climbing wall, or meet their favourite DreamWorks characters,” said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Royal Caribbean Australia & NZ. “Year after year, we hear what fun these days are for the kids, and their parents. It is truly a privilege to help brighten their day.”

“Camp Quality Family Fun days are such a rewarding experience and a highlight of our season. We love supporting this amazing charity and we look forward to welcoming Camp Quality onboard next summer,” Armstrong concluded.

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28 April, 2017

Return flights to Sydney from just ONE DOLLAR with Royal Caribbean 





Royal Caribbean has announced an unbelievable new air/cruise offer, letting guests add domestic return flights to Sydney to meet their sailing from just $1 on most local cruises in 2017 – meaning even more Australians can embark on the cruise holiday of their dreams.

The incredible offer applies to bookings made from now through to 5pm Friday 31 May 2017 on a huge selection of local Royal Caribbean sailings departing from Sydney from 29 October to 13 December 2017. 

“We know how much Australians love our style of cruising - we offer the biggest, newest and most modern ships sailing in the region. Since many of our local sailings depart from Sydney, we are thrilled to launch this brand new offer so our guests from all around Australia can sail with Royal Caribbean and save,” said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Royal Caribbean Australia & NZ. 

“If you live in or near Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Adelaide, Launceston, Canberra or Hobart you can add return Virgin Australia flights to Sydney from just $1. That’s an unbelievable saving - not only is your accommodation, dining and entertainment looked after onboard, but so is your interstate air travel at a fraction of the usual cost,” said Armstrong. 

This coming summer season, Royal Caribbean will have four sensational ships sailing down under, including the all-new, record-breaking Ovation of the Seas, back for a hotly anticipated second local season. She’ll be joined by South Pacific sisters, Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas, both offering action-packed, family-friendly itineraries to idyllic island gems in the Pacific. Culinary favourite Radiance of the Seas rounds out the 17/18 local fleet, cruising to beautiful New Zealand.   

Royal Caribbean’s incredible flight offer is available for new bookings on most 2017 Royal Caribbean International Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific voyages of five nights or longer. Guests can add return economy flights to Sydney with Virgin Australia from Brisbane, Melbourne, the Gold Coast, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Adelaide, Launceston, Canberra or Hobart from just $1, while return flights from Cairns, Townsville, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Hervey Bay or Perth can be added from just $99. Discounted flights are also available from other destinations.

Cruise fares start from just $889 per person, twin share for an Interior Stateroom on a seven-night South Pacific cruise onboard Explorer of the Seas. Departing Sydney on 19 November 2017, the round-trip sailing calls to Noumea and Lifou, and interstate guests can add flights from $1 from selected domestic airports as part of Royal Caribbean’s new deal. 

Or experience the most modern ship sailing in Australia, Ovation of the Seas, from only $2,579 per person, twin share for a Balcony stateroom plus domestic flights from just $1 from selected locations. Departing Sydney on 7 December 2017, this 10-night roundtrip voyage includes a scenic cruise through the pristine Milford and Doubtful Sounds, as well as calls enthralling Dunedin, Wellington, Napier and Picton.  
27 April, 2017

ROYAL CARIBBEAN ANNOUNCES 2018/19 DEPLOYMENT


Royal Caribbean has revealed itinerary details for its 2018/19 summer cruise season, which will see the line known for the industry’s largest and most incredible ships return to Australia with three megaliners. Bookings for the 2018/19 summer season open 16 May 2017.

Australia’s newest, largest and most modern cruise ship, Ovation of the Seas, will return for her third and longest season yet based down under. Culinary favourite, Radiance of the Seas, will offer Royal Caribbean’s very first departure from Melbourne, as well as three cruises departing from Auckland. Meanwhile Explorer of the Seas – the South Pacific family favourite – returns down under for her fourth season. Sister ship Voyager of the Seas will not return to Australia for the 2018/19 summer cruise season, instead remaining in Singapore and China for a year-round season.

“Melbourne as a new turnaround-port for Radiance of the Seas was an easy choice for us to make. Victorians are known the world over for their love of great food so our culinary ship is the perfect fit. And in Auckland, our style of cruising is continuously growing in popularity so we’re thrilled to offer cruises from our Kiwi neighbours’ doorstep,” Armstrong said.

"After six seasons pioneering BIG ship cruising in Australia and carrying more than 300,000 guests, we will say farewell to our beloved Voyager of the Seas for the 2018/19 cruise season, as she will instead sail from Singapore and Asia year-round,” said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Royal Caribbean Australia & New Zealand.

“This deployment change makes possible the early return of Ovation of the Seas to her summer home in Sydney, where she will operate her longest ever Australia season. Our most popular local cruise ship, Ovation of the Seas is the flagship for modern Australian cruising, delivering a whole new way to holiday, known as SuperCruising”, Armstrong continued.

The 2018/19 season will kick off with the arrival of Radiance of the Seas to Sydney on 6 October 2018. Explorer of the Seas will return down under on 27 October 2018 and Ovation of the Seas on 2 November 2018. Together, the three ships will offer 61 sailings, ranging from three to 23-nights, sailing to nine different countries including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, French Polynesia, Malaysia, New Caledonia, Singapore, the USA and Vanuatu.

Australia’s biggest, newest and most modern ship, Ovation of the Seas, as well as culinary favourite Radiance of the Seas will primarily offer guests a range of Australia and New Zealand itineraries to ports in the North and South Island as well as Hobart. Ovation will sail exclusively from Sydney, while Radiance of the Seas will offer one new sailing from Melbourne and three from Auckland, as well as voyages from Sydney.

Ovation of the Seas will also offer one unique New Zealand and South Pacific hybrid sailing as well as eight- and nine-night South Pacific voyages to New Caledonia and Vanuatu, a 14-night Singapore to Sydney sailing via Perth, Adelaide and Hobart, a five-night Tasmania cruise and a 14-night Sydney to Singapore voyage with calls to Brisbane, Darwin and Malaysia.

As well as her New Zealand voyages from Sydney and Auckland and her new departure from Melbourne, Radiance of the Seas will also sail a range of shorter voyages perfect for first time cruises, including a three-night sampler cruise to nowhere, a new four-night cruise to Melbourne and a five-night Tasmania sailing. Guests can also cruise on eight, 10 or 12-night South Pacific sailings and two 18-night Hawaii repositioning sailings at the start and end of her season.

Australia’s second largest ship, Explorer of the Seas will continue her focus on South Pacific voyages, with a range of eight to 14-night sailings. Her fantastic onboard amenities, including the FlowRider surf machine, rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, Broadway-style shows and full sized sports court, as well as the idyllic island destinations she visits, such as Fiji, New Caledonia and Vanuatu, make her the ideal family getaway destination.

She will also offer a new six-night Tasmania sailing with calls to Newcastle, Wollongong and Hobart, as well as an eight-night Queensland sailing and two epic repositioning voyages between Seattle and Sydney, with calls to Hawaii, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia.

“We expect that local demand for Royal Caribbean's innovative and ground breaking ships will see a fourth Royal Caribbean ship return to Australian shores in 2019/20. Our determination to remain the number one cruise line in this region is undiminished,” Armstrong concluded.

Bookings for the 2018/19 season will open 16 May 2017. For further information or to book a cruise, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or contact your local travel agent.
27 April, 2017

Breaking news: Royal Caribbean cuts sailings from Sydney

Royal Caribbean will cut two of its biggest ships from Sydney, Voyager and Radiance of the Seas, as the Overseas Passenger terminal is now full.

This move will result in the loss of around $32 million of dollars in passenger spend, Royal Caribbean Australia and New Zealand Managing director Adam Armstrong said. The changes will come into effect after the conclusion of the 2017/18 cruising season.

“We’ve been talking about one day Sydney will be full. That day has come,” he said. He added that Sydney will lose 65,000 guests a year from Voyager.

The issue of prime docking space in Sydney is not new, with many calling for new cruise terminals to be built in Newcastle or Wollongong.  Other solutions include sharing Garden Island with the Navy and using Port Botany despite its location near the airport’s main runway.

Mr Armstrong said Royal Caribbean had helped fund cruise terminals in Miami, Fort Lauderdale in Barcelona, Hong Kong and Singapore — and was willing to fund a new cruise terminal in Botany Bay.

“It’s extremely frustrating. There is no berthing solution in Sydney. In the interim, Singapore, Hong Kong and China have all built world-class terminals,” he said.

“Brisbane will have a solution ­before Sydney does.”

Carnival Australia executive chairman Ann Sherry reiterated the frustration saying Sydney is in desperate need of berthing capacity on the eastern side of the Harbour Bridge.

“I will keep encouraging discussion at both a state and federal level. We are nearing crunch point where we need to find a way to unblock the stalemate in Sydney Harbour and find a way of sharing the Garden Island ­facility between Navy and cruising for the benefit of Sydney,” Ms Sherry said.

Melbourne will become the new home port for Radiance, with Mr Armstrong saying it “was an easy choice for us to make. Victorians are known the world over for their love of great food so our culinary ship is the perfect fit.”

Once Voyager completes the 2017/18 cruising season from Sydney, she will then sail from Singapore and Asia year-round.

On the upside, the changes will allow for the early return of Ovation of the Seas to her summer home in Sydney, where she will operate her longest ever Australia season.

The 2018/19 season will kick off with the arrival of Radiance of the Seas to Sydney on 6 October 2018. Explorer of the Seas will return down under on 27 October 2018 and Ovation of the Seas on 2 November 2018. Together, the three ships will offer 61 sailings, ranging from three to 23-nights, sailing to nine different countries including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, French Polynesia, Malaysia, New Caledonia, Singapore, the USA and Vanuatu.
27 April, 2017

Cunard Provides Inside Look at Queen Victoria Refurbishment 

Cunard has unveiled more details of the new and refreshed features which will be offered on Queen Victoria following its refurbishment next month. 


Scheduled for completion on June 4, 2017, some of the many highlights include a new exquisite lido sun deck as well as a stunning Winter Garden, refreshed and enhanced for guests looking to relax while enjoying some of the best views at sea. The luxury British cruise line also offers an inside look at the Britannia Club Staterooms, Britannia Club Restaurant and five new luxurious Penthouse Suites.

Cunard Senior Vice President Simon Palethorpe said the ship’s refurbishment was designed to heighten guests’ experience in every way, from the extension of the aft lido sun deck to refreshed interiors across the board. 

“Responding to the demands of our guests, we've introduced 43 Britannia Club Staterooms, bringing the Queen Victoria in line with the rest of the Cunard fleet. The distinctive Cunard elegance remains of course and design cues have been taken from previous Cunard ships, such as the original Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth. At the same time, there are many enhancements – for example, new bar concepts and large flat screen TVs in all staterooms – that meet the needs of today's luxury traveller. We’re looking forward to inviting the first Cunard guests on board to enjoy the new additions and refreshed features,” Mr Palethorpe said.

Highlights include:

Aft Lido Sun Deck: This stunning lounge space has been extended to provide guests with additional deck space. Windbreakers and additional sun loungers and luxury cabanas have also been introduced to accommodate sunseekers on board, while the shaded area has been extended for those looking to dine al fresco. Full beverage service is also available throughout the day and into the evening to enjoy alongside live entertainment. Click here to view an animation of the new aft lido deck.

Winter Garden: A beautiful room for relaxation located in the heart of deck 9. Guests can sip their favourite tipple on the elegant lounge furniture while looking out through the floor to ceiling windows at the stunning view. 

Britannia Club Staterooms: In a prime mid-ship location on decks 7 and 8, all staterooms have been upgraded and refreshed with newly-designed carpets featuring a contemporary geometric design as well as the addition of new soft furnishings. New flat screen TVs and, by popular request, tea and coffee making facilities, have also been added to upgrade the stateroom experience even further. The additional 43 balcony staterooms will be further enhanced with premium balconies and a nine-pillow concierge menu to ensure maximum comfort for guests on board.

Britannia Club Dining: The new Britannia Club restaurant has gone through a full interior re-design and will offer guests the flexibility to dine whenever they choose. Located in the space of the former chart room, the new restaurant will be built alongside the main Britannia restaurant on Deck 2.

Penthouse Suites: Five of Queen Victoria’s elegant Penthouse Suites have been completely redesigned to maximise space and luxury. The new suites feature floor to ceiling windows and doors, private balcony with stunning sea views, additional storage space and beautiful bathrooms with luxurious whirlpool baths. With butlers and concierge also on hand to take care of every need, the luxurious suites are among the finest accommodation available at sea.

The ship will be taken out of service on May 5, 2017 to undergo the refit at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Italy. 



For more information about Cunard see a travel agent, visit www.cunard.com or call 132441.



24 April, 2017

ANZAC Day to be Commemorated on P&O Cruises’ Fleet with Veterans and Current Members of the Armed Services at the Centre  



Australian and New Zealand war veterans and currently serving members of the armed forces will be at the centre of Anzac Day Dawn Services to be conducted on P&O Cruises' ships tomorrow.

Joined by senior deck officers and fellow guests, the veterans and currently serving members will participate in the traditional service including the playing of the Last Post, observance of a minute’s silence and the symbolic casting of wreaths onto the sea.

The Dawn Services will begin a day devoted to the Anzac legacy with special Australian and New Zealand displays with an Anzac theme, Anzac biscuits available on board throughout the day and two-up in a salute to the larrikin spirit of the original Diggers.

As Anzac Day begins with the Dawn Services, Pacific Dawn will be approaching Brisbane on turnaround, Pacific Jewel will be at sea, Pacific Eden will be in Broome and Pacific Aria will be at Port Vila.

Pacific Eden’s presence in Broome will be particularly significant given that the Western Australian port was bombed by Japanese fighter planes in March 1942 with the loss of at least 88 people. In another Western Australian wartime link, further to the south at Geraldton is the HMAS Sydney Memorial commemorating the loss of the Sydney in November 1941 with the loss of all 645 officers and crew following action with the German raider Kormoran.

Anzac Day is also an opportunity for P&O Cruises to remember its own historic legacy of scores of ships called up for war service including, most recently, Canberra’s celebrated role as a troopship during the Falklands War in 1982.

Many P&O ships were called to service in both World Wars with the loss of a large number of ships and crew members in action at sea.

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

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

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

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

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

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

20 April, 2017

Carnival Commemorates Anzac Day with Special Service in Sydney Harbour



Former Royal Australian Navy Commander John Hodges will head back to sea for the first time since his retirement from the Navy in 1989 to lead a special Anzac Day service onboard Carnival Spirit in Sydney Harbour on April 25.

After an illustrious career spanning more than 20 years, the Vietnam War veteran and Submarine Captain will lead the Anzac Day dawn service onboard Carnival Cruise Line’s Australia-based superliner as it sails into Sydney following an eight-night cruise.

The service will be followed by a ‘Gunfire Breakfast’, while the cruise will also feature a special screening of Gallipoli.

Originally from Newcastle, John joined the Royal Australian Naval College at Jervis Bay in 1968 and served in Vietnam including transporting the Australian Army from the troop carrier HMAS SYDNEY to the beach at Vung Tau as captain of one of the ship’s Landing Craft. He was awarded the Australian Active Service Medal and the Vietnam Logistic Support Medal during his service in HMAS SYDNEY, as well as a later Australian Service Medal with Special Operations clasp during his service in HMAS ORION.

John went on to rise through the ranks, becoming a Commander in 1988. He left the Navy in 1989 and for the past ten years has been the Returned and Services League of Australia National Veterans’ Affairs Advisor. John retired from this position last month.

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the cruise line was honoured to have John onboard to lead the special Anzac service.

“Carnival Spirit has called Australia home for five years and we’re proud to have someone of John Hodges standing join our guests onboard to commemorate this important day. Anzac Day is a time of remembrance and reflection and this year’s service, held as dawn breaks in Sydney Harbour, is set to be especially poignant,” she said.  
 

19 April, 2017

Farewell South Pacific sister Explorer of the Seas.


Exciting news! I've been invited by Adam Armstrong, Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia's managing director, to celebrate the end of RCL's biggest season yet - and farewell their final ship for the summer, South Pacific sister Explorer of the Seas.

The biggest question of the day though is WHAT TO WEAR? I've been instructed the dress code is 'finest tropical resort-wear'.


Any suggestions?
 
I'll be Livestreaming on my Facebook page and taking loads of pictures.


6 April, 2017

Stunning Value and serious style: Cruise New Zealand on Celebrity Solstice for less.

Sail from Auckland to Sydney over 12 nights on the Celebrity Solstice and experience the magic of the land of the long white cloud from just AUD$1,699 per person, twin share*. Plus: Oceanview bookings and above receive a free Classic Beverage Package for two, as well as USD$300 onboard credit per stateroom.

Departing Auckland on 9 December 2017, the cruise allows guests to build a North Island land component into their holiday before departing for the 12 night itinerary to Sydney. Calling at the Bay of Islands, Tauranga, Wellington, Akaroa and Dunedin, plus scenic cruising in Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sounds in New Zealand, the cruise includes a day in Melbourne before arriving in Sydney.

 
 
Celebrity Cruises is a premium cruise line known for its modern style of luxury, offering fine wine and dining experiences on modern, stylish ships. Celebrity Solstice, Australia’s highest rated cruise ship, boasts a stunning two story, floor-to-ceiling glass wine tower capable of holding 2,800 bottles of wine, 12 sophisticated bars and lounges, as well as ten remarkable dining choices – including Sushi on Five, Tuscan Grille, Murano for fine European fare and Silk Harvest for Asian-fusion dishes.

Visit celebritycruises.com.au for more information.

*Terms and conditions apply. Fares quoted are lowest available at 5 April 2017. For  full details see www.celebritycruises.com.au
^ Celebrity Solstice is the highest rated ship in Australia according to the Berlitz Guide and was awarded Best Cruise Ship – Domestic 2015 at the AFTA National Travel Industry Awards. 
3 April, 2017

Royal Caribbean’s Annual Family Sale
Kids sail from just $39 a day next summer season.



I know it feels like ages away, but summer school holidays will come faster than you think. Why not take advantage of Royal Caribbean's Annual Family Sale and save BIG on your next holiday? 

The Annual Family Sale is offering kids cruise fares from just $39 a day and up to 30% off for mum and dad.

Available to book from now until 28 April 2017, the Annual Family Sale is applicable to all local sailings departing between September 2017 and April 2018*.

“We know how precious family holiday time is. It‘s essential to find the perfect holiday option that offers the right balance of activities and down-time for the whole family. That’s what makes a cruise on Royal Caribbean’s incredible South Pacific Sisters the perfect destination,” said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Royal Caribbean Australia & NZ. 



Explorer of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas – AKA the South Pacific Sisters – offer the perfect family-friendly holiday choice. The twin sister ships double the fun with two FlowRiders, two rock-climbing walls and two Promenades – while sailing to the most idyllic island destinations in the South Pacific.

“Explorer and Voyager feature amazing amenities to keep the kids, and the ‘big’ kids entertained – from surfing at sea to ice skating rinks and our awards winning Adventure Ocean kids clubs," Adam said.

"For the adults, there are Broadway style shows, world-class dining options, our Vitality Spa, fully equipped gym facilities and more. Plus all the cooking, cleaning and travelling to the destination is taken care of, making a family cruise with Royal Caribbean a seamless and enjoyable way to holiday. And thanks to our Annual Family Sale, it’s now more affordable than ever before.”

Families can choose a seven-night South Pacific voyage onboard Voyager of the Seas, priced from just $2,479 for a family of four. Departing Sydney on 20 March 2018, the roundtrip sailing includes calls Lifou in the Loyalty Islands and Noumea in New Caledonia.

Or for something a little closer to home, sail onboard Explorer of the Seas during her six-night Tasmania sailing departing 9 December 2017; fares start from just $2,059 for a family of four.
 
For further information or to book a Royal Caribbean cruise, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or see your local travel agent.


31 March, 2017

Majestic Princess Arrives as Newest Jewel in the Crown for Princess Cruises 



OMG, OMG OMG!

Carnival Corporation & plc, has taken delivery of Majestic Princess from shipbuilder Fincantieri at an official handover ceremony at the shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.

Princess Cruises’ first international luxury ship tailored for the China market, Majestic Princess will start her inaugural season in Europe before embarking on a repositioning cruise, themed the Silk Road Sea Route journey, to Shanghai where she will begin her first homeport season in July.

The handover ceremony was attended by the Italian Prime Minister, Paolo Gentiloni; executives from Carnival Corporation & plc including Micky Arison, Chairman; Arnold Donald, Chief Executive Officer; Stein Kruse, Chief Executive Officer of Holland America Group; Jan Swartz, Group President of Princess Cruises and Carnival Australia; Anthony Kaufman, Executive Vice President International Operations of Princess Cruises, and Cherry Wang, Vice President and General Manager of the Princess Cruises’ brand offices in China. Fincantieri was represented by Giuseppe Bono, Chief Executive Officer, and Giampiero Massolo, Chairman.

“Majestic Princess has arrived and we are thrilled to add this new jewel to our crown representing the newest, most stylish and most luxurious flagship in fleet, which will deliver an exceptional international cruise holiday experience to our guests,” Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said.

After the successful handover from Fincantieri, the 143,000-tonne Majestic Princess will sail on a preview cruise (March 31 to April 4) before departing on her inaugural voyage on April 4, 2017, exploring the Adriatic Sea on a five-day cruise from Rome.

Following her maiden cruise, Majestic Princess will tour Europe, offering her 3560 guests a chance to experience the ship on 7-, 14-, 21- and 28-day cruises departing from Rome, Barcelona or Athens.

On May 21, Majestic Princess will embark on the “Silk Road Sea Route”, a 49-day journey from Rome to Shanghai. During the voyage she will visit a total of 22 ports including Athens, Dubai, Cochin, Singapore, Port Klang and Xiamen before arriving in Shanghai, her new homeport in China.

For more information visit www.princess.com
 
30 March, 2017

Could you be the next face of Tahiti Tourisme?
-->Foodie Mania Heads to Sea with Rise in Culinary Cruises 
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5 March, 2017
Royal Caribbean's WOW sale!



Do you want to save up to 30%, get US$200 bonus onboard credit and only pay 50% deposits.

Royal Caribbean’s worldwide WOW Sale is now on.

This offer is available for all new bookings on international and local voyages departing after 15 March 2017. But be quick, the offer is for ONE WEEK ONLY. Offer ends Saturday 11 March 2017. 

Guests who book more than 70 days prior to departure date pay 50% reduced deposits and are eligible to receive up to US$200 onboard credit per stateroom. 

Cruises for five nights of less will receive US$50 per stateroom while sailings for six to nine nights receive US$100 per stateroom. On voyages of 10 nights or more, guests will receive US$200 per stateroom.

Choose a 13 night roundtrip South Pacific and Fiji cruise on Voyager of the Seas, departing from Sydney on 6 April 2017 and priced from just $1769 per person twin share, with calls to Noumea and Isle of Pines in New Caledonia, Mystery Island in Vanuatu as well as Lautoka and Suva in Fiji.

Or sail on a four night roundtrip Penang Getaway on Ovation of the Seas, departing Singapore on 10 April 2017 and priced from just $689 per person, twin share.
 
For further information or to book a Royal Caribbean cruise, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or see your local travel agent.

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27 February, 2017 

Carnival's giving your kids a FREE cruise

Don't you want your kids to look this happy? Mum's even smiling!

  
That's right, this is not a misprint.

Carnival Cruise Line are once again saving mummys and daddys thousands of bucks with their 'Kids Sail Free' promotion.

Imagine how many cocktails that would buy! Until March 13 - on select cruises - the third and fourth passengers sail for absolutely nothing.

I'll break it downs: Book a quad share room and only pay for the first two guests. For example, South Pacific cruises 10-night cruise to New Caledonia and Vanuatu on Carnival Spirit departing Sydney on June 13, 2017, priced from $1099 per person for the first two guests, with a family of four paying just $2198 – a saving of more than $1628.

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the sale made an already great value cruise holiday even more irresistible to Australian families with meals, entertainment, transport, accommodation and kids clubs all included in the fare.

“The only thing better than a fun-filled family holiday on Carnival, is enjoying your holiday with the knowledge that the kids are sailing, eating and playing for free," Ms Vandekreeke said.

"From our top-deck waterpark to the adults-only Serenity Retreat, Carnival offers fun for the whole family.

"Cruising is an affordable and easy way for Australian families to spend quality time together while visiting some of the most beautiful destinations in the region,” she said.

For more info visit www.carnival.com.au

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23 February, 2017 

Cruise from WA to Bali for an Exotic Sleepover

You'd better Bali-eve it! 



P&O Cruises are introducing a different way for holidaymakers to experience Indonesia with its cruises from Fremantle now offering a sleepover in Bali.

P&O will be offering its first overnight stay on April 13, 2017. The new itinerary is part of P&O’s biggest Fremantle season with one of its latest ships, the 1500-guest Pacific Eden, returning for a three-month season from April 9 to July 3, 2017. The overnight call features in the cruise line’s 12-day Indonesian cruises departing Fremantle on April 9 and May 28, 2017, which also include visits to Komodo Island, Lombok and Probolinggo.



The new itinerary is part of P&O’s biggest Fremantle season with one of its latest ships, the 1500-guest Pacific Eden, returning for a three-month season from April 9 to July 3, 2017. 

P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said the cruise line was excited about its new Indonesian itinerary which provided more time for guests to enjoy Bali from dawn to dusk.

“We’re always thinking of ways to introduce new experiences into our itineraries and by opening up our Indonesian cruises to include overnight stays in Bali, we’re allowing our guests the freedom to really immerse themselves in the beautiful Balinese culture,” Mr Myrmell said.

“As well as offering a relaxing and great value way to holiday in the region, our Indonesian cruises offer the chance to see the beauty of the Western Australian coastline as well as the phenomena of The Wallace Line, a transitional zone between Asia and Australia where the flora and fauna changes dramatically,” Mr Myrmell said.

With more time available, P&O is offering a range of immersive shore excursions including a traditional Balinese farming experience where guests travel to a village and spend a day with a local family, working in a rice paddy as well as harvesting coconuts. Other popular day trips include whitewater rafting on the Ayung River and a tour taking in Uluwatu Temple and the picturesque Bukit Peninsula.



Fares start from just $599 per person quad share for a nine-night cruise to Kuri Bay departing May 16, 2017, and also featuring a call to Exmouth and an overnight stay in Broome.

For more information visit pocruises.com.au, call 13 24 94 or see a licensed travel agent.
  
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23 February, 2017

Cunard Queens Sail into Sydney for Royal Rendezvous on Saturday February 25

(Win a FREE cruise. Details under this post) 
  

Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine I'd experience THREE different ships in the span of two weeks.

The closest I ever got to being inundated with all things nautical was sitting in front of the telly watching a Love Boat marathon on a sick day. Oh Cruise Director Julie McCoy, your hair was the envy of every 80s teen.

Anyway, back to my exciting news. On Saturday, two Queens  will be meeting in the Harbour for some tea and scones. And guess who gets to go aboard and be all fancy? ME!

For all you cruise buffs, it'll be pretty spectacular to see both Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth spend the day in Sydney Harbour together. It's almost 10 years to the day Queen Mary 2 paid her first visit to Sydney. The newly remastered Queen Mary 2 and QE2’s successor, Queen Elizabeth, will both sail into the Harbour early on Saturday morning, so don't forget to set your alarms.

The 2000-guest 90,900-tonne Queen Elizabeth will cruise into the Harbour first, arriving at the Heads around 5am before anchoring at Athol Buoy near Taronga Zoo at 5.30am.

Queen Mary 2 will follow, arriving at 5.30am and sailing up the Harbour to pass Queen Elizabeth about 5.50am before berthing at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay around 7am.

And then, I'll be bouncing on board the Queen Mary for champagne and cucumber sandwiches. Sorry, I mean saunter over the gangplank like a Laaaayyy-deeee. No bouncing Honey, ladies don't bounce.

The elegant liner is due to set sail for Tasmania at 11.30pm. Queen Elizabeth will then sail across the Harbour to berth at Circular Quay overnight before departing Sydney on Sunday at 6pm.

Queen Mary 2’s visit to Sydney will be the first since her $145 million remastering last year which saw 50 new staterooms added to the Cunard flagship, including its first ever single staterooms, as well as several new restaurants and lounges.

As part of the massive refit, the cruise line also installed 10 new kennels for Queen Mary 2’s four-legged travellers as well as a lamp post (for English dogs) and a fire hydrant (for American dogs) on the deck area reserved for dog walking during Transatlantic cruises.


Now, the wonderful people at Cunard will be giving a FREE 2-NIGHT CRUISE from Melbourne to Sydney on the Queen Mary 2. All you have to do is take the best photo of one or both ships in Sydney over the weekend (Saturday February 25 and Sunday February 26). Anyone can enter the competition, by posting on their personal Instagram or Twitter account, using the hashtag #CunardinSydney. For details click here

 
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21 February, 2017

Pacific Dawn's multi-million dollar refit 

(In an exasperated, whining voice), "Doesn't the Pacific Dawn look tired!"

Ugh, the amount of times I've heard (remember I'm a professional eavesdropper) and read that above statement in cruising forums, are too many to remember. And, it may be true - in fact it probably IS true. From a personal perspective, I cannot say either way as I am yet to cruise on the Dawn. However, there must be some truth as this much-loved vessel is currently in dry-dock getting a facelift.

While I have yet to experience the Dawn for myself, I must say I am super keen to see her with my own eyes and report back to you all. The main reason is this: (see pic below)



Now while this is a rendered image (as I wrote above, she in dry-dock in Singapore RIGHT NOW), these images make me want to crack out the credit card and book a cruise while I'm typing. From experience,  rendered images are pretty darn close to the real thing. You see, before I went on the Eden, the only pics I saw were the rendered ones and the ultra-swish virtual tour. Once aboard, the similarity was very close indeed. So, I'm pretty confident the rendered images of the refurbed Dawn are accurate. Here's another to whet your appetite.

 
(For a history of the Dawn, click here)

Once the Dawn leaves Singapore on 2 March, looking all spanking new, her first voyage will be a South Pacific cruise on 16th March departing from Brisbane (her home port).



According to P&O, the multi-million dollar refit is part of the cruiseline's "commitment to the Queensland cruise market."

"The 2000-guest ship will... emerge from its drydock with a stylish new look and a host of new features never before seen on a Queensland-based ship."

As well as the Pantry and other revamped dining options (see my blog post  about 'Shell & Bones Seafood & Grill'), P&O promises the new Dawn to be more stylish, sophisticated and contemporary. 

“With the new waterpark, dining options and a refreshed interior design, we’re creating a great new look for Pacific Dawn which will combine some fun innovations with the winning features of our existing ships,” P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said.

The Waterpark

To be honest, I'm really excited about this news. I think P&O are slowly updating their fleet - starting with Eden and Aria, this refit of the Dawn, the Explorer in a few months, and hopefully the brand new ship in 2019.

With so much competition and the recent  cruising boom in Australia, I think it's imperative P&O stay current, modern and offer Australian cruisers options. Remaining accessible and affordable, I believe, are vital in this current climate. I truly hope cruisers embrace these changes and that P&O can communicate their future aspirations clearly and succinctly.

Having recently cruised on the Pearl and the Jewel, it is clear they are both tired. Now, I hate comparing cruiselines, but after spending time on other ships which offer features such as waterparks, I can see that P&O are aiming to cater to the next generation of cruisers who expect more. There is a lot of love - and loyalty - for P&O, and I hope this continues to grow.


 
With everything in life, standing still is never a good idea. You become stagnant, boring and then, replaceable. Evolution is key, and I'm keen to witness this Dawn of a new age in cruising for P&O.