Let's Chat Cruising!!
Mates, I don't know if you've had the chance to see this ship, so I urge you to go to www.oasisoftheseas.com/index and take a look at her! She will be one magnificent vessel! I'm fortunate enough to have cruised many times to the eastern Caribbean and am looking forward to actually sailing on a ship I don't have to leave!
If you've had the privilidge to have been to the eastern Caribbean (St. Maarten/St. Martin, St. Thomas) and Nassau, you too may just want to make the Oasis your "destination." I sailed on the Freedom of the Seas for a week and didn't get to experience all she had to offer, so I'm looking forward to spending a week on Oasis and experiencing all the pools, clubs, restaurants, shows, and activities she will have.
I have a couple of groups on her. One is January 9th, the other October 2nd. Why not join me? It will be a great time...even if you don't get off her! I'll keep you posted on her progress to inauguration in December 2009.
Wishing you blue skies and calm seas,
Miki
Comments
Reply by Miki Nov 26th 2008, 07:01
Just returned from a great cruise (second one) aboard the Emerald Princess. Ten days to the southern Caribbean including Antigua, Barbados, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, St. Lucia and Princess Cay. Took a tour with a gentleman by the name of Cosol in St. Lucia and this was the highlight of our trip! I highly recommend his tour to everyone wanting to experience the entire island of St. Lucia if you only have a day to spend there. His website is listed on the right side of my home page here.Also enjoyed our tour in Antigua with Gordon. Had great weather and his warm, friendly manner made our day a treat! His contact information is also on my home page under “#1 Caribbean Tour Company Recommentations.If you want to really enjoy the water in Barbados, I highly recommend Heat Wave Sailing Cruises. These folks really took good care of us. When snorkling at sites that had other catamaran tours on the same size boat as our carring 50+ passengers, we were only 14. The boat was absolutly beautiful, very clean with bathroom and changing area. We were served breakfast, a hot buffet lunch, and had an open bar from start to finish. We swam with sea turtles and got to feed and touch them. What a treat! That was a truly memorable day. Great folks to experience Barbados with! And, their price was less than the cruise line tour…and longer!I recommend this cruise, this itinerary and tour operators, to anyone who has already “been there, done that” in the southern Caribbean. It was truly a relaxing trip and one we’ll contemplate repeating.Wishing you blue skies and calm seas,Miki
Just returned from a great cruise (second one) aboard the Emerald Princess. Ten days to the southern Caribbean including Antigua, Barbados, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, St. Lucia and Princess Cay. Took a tour with a gentleman by the name of Cosol in St. Lucia and this was the highlight of our trip! I highly recommend his tour to everyone wanting to experience the entire island of St. Lucia if you only have a day to spend there. His website is listed on the right side of my home page here.Also enjoyed our tour in Antigua with Gordon. Had great weather and his warm, friendly manner made our day a treat! His contact information is also on my home page under “#1 Caribbean Tour Company Recommentations.If you want to really enjoy the water in Barbados, I highly recommend Heat Wave Sailing Cruises. These folks really took good care of us. When snorkling at sites that had other catamaran tours on the same size boat as our carring 50+ passengers, we were only 14. The boat was absolutly beautiful, very clean with bathroom and changing area. We were served breakfast, a hot buffet lunch, and had an open bar from start to finish. We swam with sea turtles and got to feed and touch them. What a treat! That was a truly memorable day. Great folks to experience Barbados with! And, their price was less than the cruise line tour…and longer!I recommend this cruise, this itinerary and tour operators, to anyone who has already “been there, done that” in the southern Caribbean. It was truly a relaxing trip and one we’ll contemplate repeating.Wishing you blue skies and calm seas,Miki
Reply by Miki Apr 29th 2009, 06:45
Ahoy Mates! Just getting a chance to post comments about our last cruise on the Celebrity Constellation. Had a wonderful time! The ship was beautiful and we got to travel to the Panama Canal, Cartagena, Columbia and Costa Rica. Three ports that were first time visits for us. I'll try to give a short briefing on each...Panama Canal - One of the Seven Wonders of the World. What a treat to see ships going through the Gatun Locks. However, we did not like Panama at all. Found it very dirty with trash everywhere and the locals not very friendly. Don't think we'd visit again...Cartagena, Columbia was beautiful! Lovely, large city with very friendly folks. Visited Old Cartagena and the Fortress. Took 139 photos! Would love to go back and see more...Costa Rica was the highlight of our trip. We spent the day with a wonderful private tour guide, Eduardo Humphrey of Indigenous Tours. He took us to an ecotour animal sanctuary, where we spent over an hour gliding down a river in the rain forest watching monkies, sloths, crocks, bats, birds and other wildlife up close and personal. Then went to the Del Monte banana plantation where we got to see bananas processed from field to truck. And, had a blast doing a 10-station zip line activity. It was great! If you ever get the chance to zip through a rain forest do it! We really enjoyed our day in Costa Rica and topped it off with a visit to a local grocery store to buy some of their local Costa Rican coffee - for $5.00 a pound ($2 cheaper than what vendors were selling it for in the local straw markets).All in all, a great trip! I will post photos on my website soon. Haven't had a chance to edit them all yet!If you're interested in cruising to any of these countries, give me a call. I'll be delighted to share my experience with you and book your adventure.Wishing you blue skies and calm seas,Miki
Ahoy Mates! Just getting a chance to post comments about our last cruise on the Celebrity Constellation. Had a wonderful time! The ship was beautiful and we got to travel to the Panama Canal, Cartagena, Columbia and Costa Rica. Three ports that were first time visits for us. I'll try to give a short briefing on each...Panama Canal - One of the Seven Wonders of the World. What a treat to see ships going through the Gatun Locks. However, we did not like Panama at all. Found it very dirty with trash everywhere and the locals not very friendly. Don't think we'd visit again...Cartagena, Columbia was beautiful! Lovely, large city with very friendly folks. Visited Old Cartagena and the Fortress. Took 139 photos! Would love to go back and see more...Costa Rica was the highlight of our trip. We spent the day with a wonderful private tour guide, Eduardo Humphrey of Indigenous Tours. He took us to an ecotour animal sanctuary, where we spent over an hour gliding down a river in the rain forest watching monkies, sloths, crocks, bats, birds and other wildlife up close and personal. Then went to the Del Monte banana plantation where we got to see bananas processed from field to truck. And, had a blast doing a 10-station zip line activity. It was great! If you ever get the chance to zip through a rain forest do it! We really enjoyed our day in Costa Rica and topped it off with a visit to a local grocery store to buy some of their local Costa Rican coffee - for $5.00 a pound ($2 cheaper than what vendors were selling it for in the local straw markets).All in all, a great trip! I will post photos on my website soon. Haven't had a chance to edit them all yet!If you're interested in cruising to any of these countries, give me a call. I'll be delighted to share my experience with you and book your adventure.Wishing you blue skies and calm seas,Miki
Reply by Miki Apr 29th 2009, 06:45
Ahoy Mates! Just getting a chance to post comments about our last cruise on the Celebrity Constellation. Had a wonderful time! The ship was beautiful and we got to travel to the Panama Canal, Cartagena, Columbia and Costa Rica. Three ports that were first time visits for us. I'll try to give a short briefing on each...Panama Canal - One of the Seven Wonders of the World. What a treat to see ships going through the Gatun Locks. However, we did not like Panama at all. Found it very dirty with trash everywhere and the locals not very friendly. Don't think we'd visit again...Cartagena, Columbia was beautiful! Lovely, large city with very friendly folks. Visited Old Cartagena and the Fortress. Took 139 photos! Would love to go back and see more...Costa Rica was the highlight of our trip. We spent the day with a wonderful private tour guide, Eduardo Humphrey of Indigenous Tours. He took us to an ecotour animal sanctuary, where we spent over an hour gliding down a river in the rain forest watching monkies, sloths, crocks, bats, birds and other wildlife up close and personal. Then went to the Del Monte banana plantation where we got to see bananas processed from field to truck. And, had a blast doing a 10-station zip line activity. It was great! If you ever get the chance to zip through a rain forest do it! We really enjoyed our day in Costa Rica and topped it off with a visit to a local grocery store to buy some of their local Costa Rican coffee - for $5.00 a pound ($2 cheaper than what vendors were selling it for in the local straw markets).All in all, a great trip! I will post photos on my website soon. Haven't had a chance to edit them all yet!If you're interested in cruising to any of these countries, give me a call. I'll be delighted to share my experience with you and book your adventure.Wishing you blue skies and calm seas,Miki
Ahoy Mates! Just getting a chance to post comments about our last cruise on the Celebrity Constellation. Had a wonderful time! The ship was beautiful and we got to travel to the Panama Canal, Cartagena, Columbia and Costa Rica. Three ports that were first time visits for us. I'll try to give a short briefing on each...Panama Canal - One of the Seven Wonders of the World. What a treat to see ships going through the Gatun Locks. However, we did not like Panama at all. Found it very dirty with trash everywhere and the locals not very friendly. Don't think we'd visit again...Cartagena, Columbia was beautiful! Lovely, large city with very friendly folks. Visited Old Cartagena and the Fortress. Took 139 photos! Would love to go back and see more...Costa Rica was the highlight of our trip. We spent the day with a wonderful private tour guide, Eduardo Humphrey of Indigenous Tours. He took us to an ecotour animal sanctuary, where we spent over an hour gliding down a river in the rain forest watching monkies, sloths, crocks, bats, birds and other wildlife up close and personal. Then went to the Del Monte banana plantation where we got to see bananas processed from field to truck. And, had a blast doing a 10-station zip line activity. It was great! If you ever get the chance to zip through a rain forest do it! We really enjoyed our day in Costa Rica and topped it off with a visit to a local grocery store to buy some of their local Costa Rican coffee - for $5.00 a pound ($2 cheaper than what vendors were selling it for in the local straw markets).All in all, a great trip! I will post photos on my website soon. Haven't had a chance to edit them all yet!If you're interested in cruising to any of these countries, give me a call. I'll be delighted to share my experience with you and book your adventure.Wishing you blue skies and calm seas,Miki
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:24
This year will be exciting with the introduction of 9 new cruise ships. The biggest and most discussed new vessel is Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas. Slated for her first voyage this spring, this floating city will rank as the largest cruise ship in history. Weighing in at 220,000-tons, the 5,400-passenger ship has created a buzz ever since Royal Caribbean announced the project. The Oasis will feature neighborhoods that replicate land based sites like Central Park and the Boardwalk. Other innovations include an onboard “zip-line”, Aqua Theater and a bar that raises five stories like an elevator. These are in addition to the many distinctive features that are already present on Royal’s Freedom class ships. While the Oasis may have been making the biggest splash, several other lines are showcasing new ships this year. Carnival will be debuting the Carnival Dream. The Dream is the first brand new design for the company’s Fun Ship line since 2002. Some of the new features include the indoor-outdoor Ocean Plaza, with coffee shops, bars and ocean views, Cloud 9 Spa (Carnival’s Largest), two twister waterslides, (the longest at sea), and a two-deck mini-golf course. There will also be a new range of cabin types such as "cove balcony" cabins—closer to the water line than any other ship's verandah staterooms and family-friendly accommodations with two bathrooms and sleeping arrangements for up to five people.Many prefer somewhat smaller ships and the different ambiance they provide. Costa has taken a different approach by building a ship that can transit the Panama Canal. (many of the new builds can’t). The Costa Luminosa boasts a 3D cinema and a rollerblading track as well as a more extensive choice of itineraries. In a unique dual naming ceremony, Costa will be introducing Costa Pacifica, a sibling to the Costa Serena style of big-ship design, as well as the Luminosa.Other new stars on the horizon include the Seabourn Odyssey, Silversea Cruises' Silver Spirit, and Viking Legend that will all lay claim to new designs and be the largest of all their fleet mates. The Odyssey will feature the largest spa on any luxury vessel. The 11,400-square-foot spa will span two decks and include indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, as well as a Kinesis wall in the fitness center and spa villas available for rent. Many sister ships will also make their debut this year with the introduction of Costa Pacifica, MSC Splendida, Celebrity Equinox, and AIDA Luna. These ladies take their design from their trend-setting older sisters and will share the title of biggest in fleet. The amenities on most of these ships will be fairly similar, with the exception of some changes in specialty restaurants and minor design modifications. One thing is for certain, no matter your size choice, 2009 will be a great year to take a cruise!
This year will be exciting with the introduction of 9 new cruise ships. The biggest and most discussed new vessel is Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas. Slated for her first voyage this spring, this floating city will rank as the largest cruise ship in history. Weighing in at 220,000-tons, the 5,400-passenger ship has created a buzz ever since Royal Caribbean announced the project. The Oasis will feature neighborhoods that replicate land based sites like Central Park and the Boardwalk. Other innovations include an onboard “zip-line”, Aqua Theater and a bar that raises five stories like an elevator. These are in addition to the many distinctive features that are already present on Royal’s Freedom class ships. While the Oasis may have been making the biggest splash, several other lines are showcasing new ships this year. Carnival will be debuting the Carnival Dream. The Dream is the first brand new design for the company’s Fun Ship line since 2002. Some of the new features include the indoor-outdoor Ocean Plaza, with coffee shops, bars and ocean views, Cloud 9 Spa (Carnival’s Largest), two twister waterslides, (the longest at sea), and a two-deck mini-golf course. There will also be a new range of cabin types such as "cove balcony" cabins—closer to the water line than any other ship's verandah staterooms and family-friendly accommodations with two bathrooms and sleeping arrangements for up to five people.Many prefer somewhat smaller ships and the different ambiance they provide. Costa has taken a different approach by building a ship that can transit the Panama Canal. (many of the new builds can’t). The Costa Luminosa boasts a 3D cinema and a rollerblading track as well as a more extensive choice of itineraries. In a unique dual naming ceremony, Costa will be introducing Costa Pacifica, a sibling to the Costa Serena style of big-ship design, as well as the Luminosa.Other new stars on the horizon include the Seabourn Odyssey, Silversea Cruises' Silver Spirit, and Viking Legend that will all lay claim to new designs and be the largest of all their fleet mates. The Odyssey will feature the largest spa on any luxury vessel. The 11,400-square-foot spa will span two decks and include indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, as well as a Kinesis wall in the fitness center and spa villas available for rent. Many sister ships will also make their debut this year with the introduction of Costa Pacifica, MSC Splendida, Celebrity Equinox, and AIDA Luna. These ladies take their design from their trend-setting older sisters and will share the title of biggest in fleet. The amenities on most of these ships will be fairly similar, with the exception of some changes in specialty restaurants and minor design modifications. One thing is for certain, no matter your size choice, 2009 will be a great year to take a cruise!
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:25
There was recently a rather large dust up when it was disclosed that a major cruise line had given away some free cruises to a core group of its fans who posted regularly on a large cruise community site. There were many cries of “foul” and “reverse censorship”. While this may have been blown a bit out of proportion, it does open the door to a question lots of novice cruisers ask. And the question is “Should I trust the reviews I read on sites like Cruise Critic?” The answer is Yes and No.Why the ambiguity? Because the most important thing to remember that what you are reading is just one person (or couple’s) opinion about a particular ship, cruise line or service amenity. Have you ever gone to a shore side restaurant that a friend raves about and found it to be very disappointing? I think we all have. And what about that fabulous plumber who was recommended strongly? The one who broke the pipe and flooded your new carpet? Oops.So, it is best to consider these reviews with a grain of salt. They are good for general trends and recommendations and certainly provide some insider tips. Generally, if there are a large number of reviews and all or most of them are negative on a topic, there is likely to be some underlying cause. Then again, there is a certain group of people that would complain if they got a million dollars in cash that it was in old bills and not crisp new ones. Go figure.The fact that 80% of all people who cruise indicate they will sail again points out that if you work with a knowledgeable cruise agent and he or she matches your needs with the most suitable ship, it is almost inevitable that you will have a great vacation.
There was recently a rather large dust up when it was disclosed that a major cruise line had given away some free cruises to a core group of its fans who posted regularly on a large cruise community site. There were many cries of “foul” and “reverse censorship”. While this may have been blown a bit out of proportion, it does open the door to a question lots of novice cruisers ask. And the question is “Should I trust the reviews I read on sites like Cruise Critic?” The answer is Yes and No.Why the ambiguity? Because the most important thing to remember that what you are reading is just one person (or couple’s) opinion about a particular ship, cruise line or service amenity. Have you ever gone to a shore side restaurant that a friend raves about and found it to be very disappointing? I think we all have. And what about that fabulous plumber who was recommended strongly? The one who broke the pipe and flooded your new carpet? Oops.So, it is best to consider these reviews with a grain of salt. They are good for general trends and recommendations and certainly provide some insider tips. Generally, if there are a large number of reviews and all or most of them are negative on a topic, there is likely to be some underlying cause. Then again, there is a certain group of people that would complain if they got a million dollars in cash that it was in old bills and not crisp new ones. Go figure.The fact that 80% of all people who cruise indicate they will sail again points out that if you work with a knowledgeable cruise agent and he or she matches your needs with the most suitable ship, it is almost inevitable that you will have a great vacation.
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:25
What do the “Abominable Snowman”, the “Loch Ness Monster” and “Booking Cruises Directly with the Cruise Line is Cheaper” all have in common? Answer: They are all myths. While we may not be experts on the first two subjects, at Cruise Planners we can certainly shed some light about direct booking myths.First of all, let’s face it, a sales representative at a cruise line gets paid to sell only their company whether it’s the right product for you or not. They will never recommend the competition. That should be enough right there to make you stop and think. But wait, there’s more! Special prices? At Cruise Planners we see the same rates on the computer as the cruise line sales representative. But more importantly, in addition, we have access to unique rates such as exclusive group fares, regional specials, and other special rate programs.The most important part of planning a cruise is not getting the lowest price. The real goal should be to get the right cruise for your personal needs at the best price available. At Cruise Planners there is no charge for our basic services as we are compensated by the cruise lines for providing personal service to you. It’s the best deal in town. While we can’t help with sightings of the Snowman or Lochie we can plan the cruise vacation of lifetime for you
What do the “Abominable Snowman”, the “Loch Ness Monster” and “Booking Cruises Directly with the Cruise Line is Cheaper” all have in common? Answer: They are all myths. While we may not be experts on the first two subjects, at Cruise Planners we can certainly shed some light about direct booking myths.First of all, let’s face it, a sales representative at a cruise line gets paid to sell only their company whether it’s the right product for you or not. They will never recommend the competition. That should be enough right there to make you stop and think. But wait, there’s more! Special prices? At Cruise Planners we see the same rates on the computer as the cruise line sales representative. But more importantly, in addition, we have access to unique rates such as exclusive group fares, regional specials, and other special rate programs.The most important part of planning a cruise is not getting the lowest price. The real goal should be to get the right cruise for your personal needs at the best price available. At Cruise Planners there is no charge for our basic services as we are compensated by the cruise lines for providing personal service to you. It’s the best deal in town. While we can’t help with sightings of the Snowman or Lochie we can plan the cruise vacation of lifetime for you
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:26
All cabins are created the same, right? Not so fast, world traveler. Experienced cruisers have learned a few secrets about determining the best stateroom choices. It’s true that most contemporary and premium class ships being built today offer “cookie cutter” cabins that are very similar in dimension and layout. But even if they all appear to be the same according to the deck plan, there are some things you can do to make sure you get the best bang for your buck. The prime consideration is location, location, location. Carefully view the deck plan to check for elevator, lobbies, and high traffic areas like buffet entrances. Staterooms in this area can be a little more lively (read noisy) than others. And also take note if the cabin is under an active public area. A few years ago, I was in a beautiful balcony cabin that was directly beneath an upper outside deck storage locker. Every morning, my traveling mate and I were summoned from our dream-filled sleep not by the sound of gentle waves slapping against the hull but by not-so-gentle deck hands dragging things on their “floor” which also happened to be our ceiling.You can do a lot of this research yourself, but here’s a hint. Your cruise specialist likely knows a lot of these tricks of the trade and can assist you in the search for that perfect hideaway. Of course, if you are an early riser and long for the old military style wake up call, then my former balcony stateroom is probably available!
All cabins are created the same, right? Not so fast, world traveler. Experienced cruisers have learned a few secrets about determining the best stateroom choices. It’s true that most contemporary and premium class ships being built today offer “cookie cutter” cabins that are very similar in dimension and layout. But even if they all appear to be the same according to the deck plan, there are some things you can do to make sure you get the best bang for your buck. The prime consideration is location, location, location. Carefully view the deck plan to check for elevator, lobbies, and high traffic areas like buffet entrances. Staterooms in this area can be a little more lively (read noisy) than others. And also take note if the cabin is under an active public area. A few years ago, I was in a beautiful balcony cabin that was directly beneath an upper outside deck storage locker. Every morning, my traveling mate and I were summoned from our dream-filled sleep not by the sound of gentle waves slapping against the hull but by not-so-gentle deck hands dragging things on their “floor” which also happened to be our ceiling.You can do a lot of this research yourself, but here’s a hint. Your cruise specialist likely knows a lot of these tricks of the trade and can assist you in the search for that perfect hideaway. Of course, if you are an early riser and long for the old military style wake up call, then my former balcony stateroom is probably available!
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:27
If you’ve vacationed with your children you know the look - a couple of bleary-eyed, bedraggled parents returning back to the hotel at 6 p.m.. In tow, are 2 hyper-active offspring wearing mouse hats or whale t-shirts sporting cotton candy hair extensions. Next it’s the big choice: wash them up and suffer through another dinner or collapse in the hotel room with another room service or take-out pizza meal. And today’s receipts for all this fun? Well, let’s just say it cost more than your first car did?If this is how you define vacation in your household, maybe it’s time for something different. How about an experience where EVERYONE actually gets a vacation? The answer is quite simple and does not end with the words “Park”, “World” or “Land”. But it does end with the word “Happy”. On a cruise it is possible to make everyone happy with their vacation.Contemporary cruise lines figured out quite a while ago that if you can keep the kids happy and occupied, then the parents follow right along. Over the years, children’s programs on board ships have blossomed from having one children’s counselor on board over the holidays to full blown year round programs and separate facilities for the different age groups. Every year from 6 months to 16 years is covered and child care is offered at various levels. Cruise lines are now savvy enough to plan nighttime activities for the children so their parents can enjoy the facilities of the ship in a relaxed style simply unavailable at most land-based resorts. Cruises are an exceptionally good idea for single parents as they have a controlled environment and child care on the ship, but have the freedom and time to make new friends around the ship. Extended families also love ships because cousins and friends can hang together on the ship while the adults reconnect. Before you plan your next road trip, let a cruise expert fill you in on the many choices and the “secret” affordability of family cruising. Oh, did we forget to mention that all meals, snacks, entertainment, accommodations and transportation are included in one upfront price? This year take a cruise and leave the mouse hats, maps, and (cotton candy remover) shampoo at home
If you’ve vacationed with your children you know the look - a couple of bleary-eyed, bedraggled parents returning back to the hotel at 6 p.m.. In tow, are 2 hyper-active offspring wearing mouse hats or whale t-shirts sporting cotton candy hair extensions. Next it’s the big choice: wash them up and suffer through another dinner or collapse in the hotel room with another room service or take-out pizza meal. And today’s receipts for all this fun? Well, let’s just say it cost more than your first car did?If this is how you define vacation in your household, maybe it’s time for something different. How about an experience where EVERYONE actually gets a vacation? The answer is quite simple and does not end with the words “Park”, “World” or “Land”. But it does end with the word “Happy”. On a cruise it is possible to make everyone happy with their vacation.Contemporary cruise lines figured out quite a while ago that if you can keep the kids happy and occupied, then the parents follow right along. Over the years, children’s programs on board ships have blossomed from having one children’s counselor on board over the holidays to full blown year round programs and separate facilities for the different age groups. Every year from 6 months to 16 years is covered and child care is offered at various levels. Cruise lines are now savvy enough to plan nighttime activities for the children so their parents can enjoy the facilities of the ship in a relaxed style simply unavailable at most land-based resorts. Cruises are an exceptionally good idea for single parents as they have a controlled environment and child care on the ship, but have the freedom and time to make new friends around the ship. Extended families also love ships because cousins and friends can hang together on the ship while the adults reconnect. Before you plan your next road trip, let a cruise expert fill you in on the many choices and the “secret” affordability of family cruising. Oh, did we forget to mention that all meals, snacks, entertainment, accommodations and transportation are included in one upfront price? This year take a cruise and leave the mouse hats, maps, and (cotton candy remover) shampoo at home
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:28
How Low Can They Go?Ask anyone who has been around the cruise business for several years about the low prices being promoted right now. They will all probably agree that we are seeing some of the lowest prices ever for some destinations that previously commanded premium pricing. Take Alaska for example. This week NCL is offered cruises during a one day sale to Alaska for as low as $379. And Celebrity followed suit with Alaska voyages starting from $429. Perhaps the most enticing deal is a Celebrity CruiseTour – cruise plus land at only $989.Europe has also been on “blue light special” recently with $699 lead rates from Celebrity and Royal Caribbean promoting a 12 night cruise for $1149 during high season. The general softness in the economy has affected land travel to Europe this summer meaning there are more air seats available at reasonable prices than last year. People are even reporting that they have been able to use their air miles for almost peak period travel.The pundits also know that in the cruise business, the law of supply and demand is king. So as the deals begin to get snapped up, the rates will slowly ratchet upward. The easiest way to find the best deals is to ask a cruise agent to monitor prices on your favorite itineraries and let you know when they find a great price on the cruise or itinerary you want. It’s sort of like playing the stock market, without the pain.
How Low Can They Go?Ask anyone who has been around the cruise business for several years about the low prices being promoted right now. They will all probably agree that we are seeing some of the lowest prices ever for some destinations that previously commanded premium pricing. Take Alaska for example. This week NCL is offered cruises during a one day sale to Alaska for as low as $379. And Celebrity followed suit with Alaska voyages starting from $429. Perhaps the most enticing deal is a Celebrity CruiseTour – cruise plus land at only $989.Europe has also been on “blue light special” recently with $699 lead rates from Celebrity and Royal Caribbean promoting a 12 night cruise for $1149 during high season. The general softness in the economy has affected land travel to Europe this summer meaning there are more air seats available at reasonable prices than last year. People are even reporting that they have been able to use their air miles for almost peak period travel.The pundits also know that in the cruise business, the law of supply and demand is king. So as the deals begin to get snapped up, the rates will slowly ratchet upward. The easiest way to find the best deals is to ask a cruise agent to monitor prices on your favorite itineraries and let you know when they find a great price on the cruise or itinerary you want. It’s sort of like playing the stock market, without the pain.
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:28
Mickey and Minnie to Get New Ship CousinsWhile the Disney Cruise Line ships are not known as Mickey and Minnie, we think maybe they should. But in any case the ships (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder) will be joined in 2011 and 2012 by two cousins. The first steel was cut this week on the two yet-to-be named DCL ships during a ceremony at the Meyer Werft yards in Germany. The first piece of steel cut was part of the Art Deco-inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s but adds a Disney touch: a Mickey Mouse medallion in the center of the design. Not many details are available on this new pair, but they will feature 1250 staterooms and be about 128,000 tons each making them about 1/3 larger than the two existing ships which have 875 staterooms.It’s been more than 10 years since Disney welcomed a new ship so mouse fans have a lot to look forward to. Keep your ears to the ground and we promise to give you regular updates on this magical birth event.
Mickey and Minnie to Get New Ship CousinsWhile the Disney Cruise Line ships are not known as Mickey and Minnie, we think maybe they should. But in any case the ships (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder) will be joined in 2011 and 2012 by two cousins. The first steel was cut this week on the two yet-to-be named DCL ships during a ceremony at the Meyer Werft yards in Germany. The first piece of steel cut was part of the Art Deco-inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s but adds a Disney touch: a Mickey Mouse medallion in the center of the design. Not many details are available on this new pair, but they will feature 1250 staterooms and be about 128,000 tons each making them about 1/3 larger than the two existing ships which have 875 staterooms.It’s been more than 10 years since Disney welcomed a new ship so mouse fans have a lot to look forward to. Keep your ears to the ground and we promise to give you regular updates on this magical birth event.
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:30
Just returned from a one week Caribbean cruise. In the elevator during the early part of the trip, I overhead two middle-aged ladies chatting about dining on board. The gist of the conversation was about the alternative restaurant options on board. One comment that struck me was “You should not have to pay for your meals on a ship”. But thinking about this conversation, it became apparent that the comment was not really correct. You don’t HAVE to pay for dining on any ship as each cruise line offers included dining in the main dining rooms, buffets and snack venues. On the other hand, optional restaurants have limited seating, upgraded menus and more interesting venues. The cost, usually presented as a “cover charge”, runs from about $10 to $25. If you are celebrating a special event while on board or just want an excellent dining experience once or twice while cruising, then consider alternative dining for just what it is “alternative and optional”. Or you can blissfully dine 3 to 6 times per day at the free restaurants. But if you have not sampled an alternative restaurant, be careful, you might get hooked! It must be a popular feature because the cruise lines that used to offer only “traditional” first and second seating dining are adding flexible dining options as well as more extensive alternative restaurants to new and existing ships.
Just returned from a one week Caribbean cruise. In the elevator during the early part of the trip, I overhead two middle-aged ladies chatting about dining on board. The gist of the conversation was about the alternative restaurant options on board. One comment that struck me was “You should not have to pay for your meals on a ship”. But thinking about this conversation, it became apparent that the comment was not really correct. You don’t HAVE to pay for dining on any ship as each cruise line offers included dining in the main dining rooms, buffets and snack venues. On the other hand, optional restaurants have limited seating, upgraded menus and more interesting venues. The cost, usually presented as a “cover charge”, runs from about $10 to $25. If you are celebrating a special event while on board or just want an excellent dining experience once or twice while cruising, then consider alternative dining for just what it is “alternative and optional”. Or you can blissfully dine 3 to 6 times per day at the free restaurants. But if you have not sampled an alternative restaurant, be careful, you might get hooked! It must be a popular feature because the cruise lines that used to offer only “traditional” first and second seating dining are adding flexible dining options as well as more extensive alternative restaurants to new and existing ships.
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:31
Gizmos, Gadgets and Cruise ShipsIf you don’t know a USB device from a motherboard and are otherwise “electronically challenged”, then this news from Crystal Cruises will be welcomed. The cruise line has just announced that they are placing on-board technical concierges to assist guests with all types of personal electronics from iPods and iPhones to Blackberrys and plain old laptops. The concierges will provide consultation at no charge to anyone onboard. They'll be located in the ships' computer centers, where guests can check e-mail and use the Internet, beginning in April aboard Crystal Symphony and in May aboard Crystal Serenity. Personally my favorite button on these devices is the one that turns it off so I can enjoy a holiday on my holiday. A lot of folks today, go on vacation to get away from it all and then try to bring as much of “it” with them as they can. While staying in touch on your cruise is an important consideration, too much of a good thing can be distracting. However, like everything else connected with vacations at sea, there are multiple choices and options and this is just one more to be added to the list. Crystal operates two 5 Star luxury lines on voyages to ports throughout the world.
Gizmos, Gadgets and Cruise ShipsIf you don’t know a USB device from a motherboard and are otherwise “electronically challenged”, then this news from Crystal Cruises will be welcomed. The cruise line has just announced that they are placing on-board technical concierges to assist guests with all types of personal electronics from iPods and iPhones to Blackberrys and plain old laptops. The concierges will provide consultation at no charge to anyone onboard. They'll be located in the ships' computer centers, where guests can check e-mail and use the Internet, beginning in April aboard Crystal Symphony and in May aboard Crystal Serenity. Personally my favorite button on these devices is the one that turns it off so I can enjoy a holiday on my holiday. A lot of folks today, go on vacation to get away from it all and then try to bring as much of “it” with them as they can. While staying in touch on your cruise is an important consideration, too much of a good thing can be distracting. However, like everything else connected with vacations at sea, there are multiple choices and options and this is just one more to be added to the list. Crystal operates two 5 Star luxury lines on voyages to ports throughout the world.
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:32
Super Size my Port PleaseDon’t look now but Fort Lauderdale’s cruise port is more than tripling the size of one of its cruise terminals in time for the arrival of Royal Caribbean International’s 5,400-passenger Oasis-class of ships, the largest cruise ships in the world. When completed, Terminal 18 will become the largest single-ship cruise terminal in the world. Guests will be treated to the Oasis experience as soon as they enter the terminal according to port officials. The grand opening is planned to coincide with the arrival of the ship in November 2009. Oasis of the Seas will use the terminal initially and will be joined by its sister ship, Allure of the Seas, a year later.The terminal will be more than three times larger than existing terminals, with a total of 240,000 square feet on two floors. The terminal will be large enough to accommodate both arriving and departing cruise passengers and their luggage simultaneously. In the new Terminal 18, guests will debark and embark through entirely different sections of the building, permitting the simultaneous debarking of guests from the ship while embarking guests are processed and seated inside the terminal waiting to board the ship. The terminal area for debarking guests is 102,000 square feet on two levels, while the arrival hall for embarking guests is in the new section and encompasses 138,000 square feet on two levels. The goal is that once the ship is cleared for embarkation, the transition for guests to go from curbside to the ship can be completed in 15 minutes. There will be 22 booths for U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel to process guests after their cruise. The embarkation area will feature 90 check-in counters and a bank of overhead video screens that provide arriving guests with directions and information. Terminal 18 is located in the center of Port Everglades directly on the port’s main thoroughfare. It is separated from other cruise terminals so that vehicular traffic to and from the terminal is isolated and can move smoothly.
Super Size my Port PleaseDon’t look now but Fort Lauderdale’s cruise port is more than tripling the size of one of its cruise terminals in time for the arrival of Royal Caribbean International’s 5,400-passenger Oasis-class of ships, the largest cruise ships in the world. When completed, Terminal 18 will become the largest single-ship cruise terminal in the world. Guests will be treated to the Oasis experience as soon as they enter the terminal according to port officials. The grand opening is planned to coincide with the arrival of the ship in November 2009. Oasis of the Seas will use the terminal initially and will be joined by its sister ship, Allure of the Seas, a year later.The terminal will be more than three times larger than existing terminals, with a total of 240,000 square feet on two floors. The terminal will be large enough to accommodate both arriving and departing cruise passengers and their luggage simultaneously. In the new Terminal 18, guests will debark and embark through entirely different sections of the building, permitting the simultaneous debarking of guests from the ship while embarking guests are processed and seated inside the terminal waiting to board the ship. The terminal area for debarking guests is 102,000 square feet on two levels, while the arrival hall for embarking guests is in the new section and encompasses 138,000 square feet on two levels. The goal is that once the ship is cleared for embarkation, the transition for guests to go from curbside to the ship can be completed in 15 minutes. There will be 22 booths for U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel to process guests after their cruise. The embarkation area will feature 90 check-in counters and a bank of overhead video screens that provide arriving guests with directions and information. Terminal 18 is located in the center of Port Everglades directly on the port’s main thoroughfare. It is separated from other cruise terminals so that vehicular traffic to and from the terminal is isolated and can move smoothly.
Reply by Miki May 12th 2009, 10:33
Lights, Action, Frozen Margarita?Cruise ship entertainment continues to reach new heights so it is no surprise that when the world’s largest ship, Oasis of the Seas, enters service this fall, the shows on board will also be “super-sized”. While the ship will feature multiple entertainment venues, the current buzz is about “Hairspray” and not the kind available in the gift shop. Royal Caribbean recently announced that it has signed an exclusive 3 year arrangement with the producers of the musical for presentation in the ship’s Grand Opal lounge. "We are thrilled to bring to our guests a ground-breaking entertainment feature such as Hairspray on Oasis of the Seas," said Peter Compton, vice president, Entertainment, Royal Caribbean International. "The addition of this popular musical to Royal Caribbean's entertainment lineup will undoubtedly take cruise entertainment to the next level and cater to the evolving tastes of vacationers. Guests will be able to enjoy an award-winning Broadway-caliber production on Oasis of the Seas along with a myriad of revolutionary onboard amenities for a most memorable cruise vacation." Hairspray earned a total of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, during its near seven year run on Broadway, which came to an end in early January and is currently playing in London's West End. Set in 1962, the show follows the story of Tracy Turn lad, a big girl with big aspirations who wins a spot on the local TV dance program, "The Corny Collins Show" and finds herself transformed into an overnight teen sensation. While the show has been trimmed just slightly to fit within the average 90-minute run time, consistent with Royal Caribbean's theater productions, guests and Hairspray fans will be pleased to find that the hottest, high-energy numbers will remain on the playbill. The show will be offered three or four times on each seven-night cruise itinerary, ensuring that guests have the opportunity to see the show at their leisure during their vacation.
Lights, Action, Frozen Margarita?Cruise ship entertainment continues to reach new heights so it is no surprise that when the world’s largest ship, Oasis of the Seas, enters service this fall, the shows on board will also be “super-sized”. While the ship will feature multiple entertainment venues, the current buzz is about “Hairspray” and not the kind available in the gift shop. Royal Caribbean recently announced that it has signed an exclusive 3 year arrangement with the producers of the musical for presentation in the ship’s Grand Opal lounge. "We are thrilled to bring to our guests a ground-breaking entertainment feature such as Hairspray on Oasis of the Seas," said Peter Compton, vice president, Entertainment, Royal Caribbean International. "The addition of this popular musical to Royal Caribbean's entertainment lineup will undoubtedly take cruise entertainment to the next level and cater to the evolving tastes of vacationers. Guests will be able to enjoy an award-winning Broadway-caliber production on Oasis of the Seas along with a myriad of revolutionary onboard amenities for a most memorable cruise vacation." Hairspray earned a total of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, during its near seven year run on Broadway, which came to an end in early January and is currently playing in London's West End. Set in 1962, the show follows the story of Tracy Turn lad, a big girl with big aspirations who wins a spot on the local TV dance program, "The Corny Collins Show" and finds herself transformed into an overnight teen sensation. While the show has been trimmed just slightly to fit within the average 90-minute run time, consistent with Royal Caribbean's theater productions, guests and Hairspray fans will be pleased to find that the hottest, high-energy numbers will remain on the playbill. The show will be offered three or four times on each seven-night cruise itinerary, ensuring that guests have the opportunity to see the show at their leisure during their vacation.