Jamie’s Italian Restaurant – on the crest of a wave

He was only in Sydney for a short time, but as always, Jamie Oliver turns dull days into sunshine. Jamie was visiting to celebrate an almost 10-year partnership, anniversary with Royal Caribbean where his talent and expertise led to the incorporation of his specialty restaurants ‘Jamie’s Italian’.

Royal Caribbean Suspends Cruising

At Royal Caribbean International, the safety and well-being of our guests and crew are always our top priorities. After the decision was made on March 13th to voluntarily suspend our sailings departing from US ports, we've now made the decision to also suspend operations for the remainder of our sailings worldwide, effective at midnight, March 15th. If you are currently onboard a cruise, there's no need to worry. We will complete our current sailing and debark as planned. Our goal is to resume operations on April 11th, 2020.

As a result of this change, we're providing you with a 125% Future Cruise Credit to come back and sail with us by December 31, 2021

• This amount will be based on your total cruise fare paid. And, we're giving you a little extra, knowing that this is such a unique circumstance.

• We will automatically issue you your Future Cruise Credit by Monday, April 13th, 2020 via email. So, there's nothing for you to do!

• Please know, if you pre-purchased any amenities and packages – like internet, beverage, dining, or RoyalUp Upgrade, those will be automatically refunded.

Or, if you prefer the lower value in a full refund, we're happy to process this for you. Given how fluid this situation is, and the opportunity to use the extra credit being offered, you have plenty of time to make up your mind. You have until December 31, 2021 to request a refund.

• Please contact us to start the refund process, if you're willing to give up the higher value of your 125% Future Cruise Credit.

• We'll then deactivate your Future Cruise Credit and process your refund to your original form(s) of payment, which will include any non-refundable deposits.

• To avoid waiting on the phone to cancel, please click here and we will get the process started for you.

• You can expect to receive your refund 30 days after you submit your request.

And, if you purchased air or hotel…

• via Royal Caribbean, these will also be automatically refunded to you.

• on your own, please contact the service provider directly for your options with them.

We know, this too shall pass, and we are optimistic that very soon you'll be excited about planning your next cruise vacation. As always, the most important thing to us will always be the safety of our guests and crew. In the meantime, we'll continue to monitor the global situation. We wish you good health and truly appreciate your continued loyalty.


CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) HEALTH PROTOCOLS

We are closely monitoring global developments regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), and we are being proactive when it comes to protecting the health of our guests, crew, and the communities where we sail.

To comply with guidance from CDC, WHO, public health authorities around the world, and the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), we are enhancing our rigorous global boarding and screening measures to protect our guests and crew. These measures are intentionally conservative and apply to anyone boarding our ships, guests and crew alike. We apologize for the inconvenience created by these precautionary measures.

These temporary safety precautions will remain in place for a projected period of 30 days and will continued to be reviewed daily. Updates will be posted daily on this website.

Until further notice, all ships in the Royal Caribbean International fleet will adopt the following health screening protocols:

Mandatory temperature screenings using digital, non-touch scanners are being conducted with guests, crewmembers, and visitors on embarkation day prior to boarding any vessel. If temperature registers about 100.4°F (38°C), the person and his/her travel companions will be referred to a secondary health screening.

Guests who are denied boarding due to screening results will receive compensation.

COVID-19 presents the most serious health risks to older individuals, the immunocompromised, and those with serious, underlying medical conditions. Therefore,

a.  Effective Monday, March 16, boarding will be denied to any person age 70 or older, unless the guest provides written verification from a qualified treating physician that certifies the person has no severe, chronic medical condition and is fit to travel.

b. Effective Friday, March 13, boarding will be denied to any person with a severe, chronic medical condition, including those specified by the CDC. Guests of all ages will be screened prior to boarding, regarding underlying health issues that may prevent them from sailing, i.e.  chronic heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or cancer.

Regardless of nationality, boarding will be denied to:

a.  Any person who has traveled from, to or through mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Europe (See list of restricted European countries below), Iran, or South Korea 15 days prior to embarkation.

b. Any person who has come in contact with anyone with 15-day prior travel to mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Europe (See list of restricted European countries below), Iran, or South Korea. The CDC characterizes contact with an individual as coming within six feet (2M) of a person.

c. Any person who within 15 days prior to embarkation, has had contact with, or helped care for, anyone suspected or diagnosed as having COVID-19, or who are currently subject to health monitoring for possible exposure to COVID-19.

d. For Caribbean Itineraries Only: The above parameters will also include Japan, Singapore and Taiwan, along with travel or contact occurring 21 days prior to embarkation.

Secondary, enhanced health screenings will be performed on:

a. Any person who reports feeling unwell or displays flu-like symptoms.

b. Any person who has traveled from, to or through Japan or Thailand in the 15 days prior to embarkation.

c. Any person who is uncertain about contact with individuals who have traveled in the 15 days prior to embarkation from, to or through mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Europe (See list of restricted European countries below), Iran, South Korea, Japan, or Thailand.

d. For Caribbean Itineraries Only: Secondary health screening parameters will include the country of Thailand for travel or contact occurring 21 days prior to embarkation.

In some cases, guests presenting certain symptoms in the specialized health screenings may be denied boarding.

All guests who are denied boarding due to these restrictions will receive compensation.

Additional restrictions may be imposed based on local circumstances. For example, certain countries may deny visas or prohibit entry based on travel history or nationality.

We have rigorous medical protocols in place to help guests and crew members who feel unwell while sailing. Our protocols include professional medical treatment; isolation of unwell individuals from the general ship population; and intensified ship cleaning, air filtration, and sanitization procedures.

We are assessing developments constantly and will update these measures as needed.

Guests with questions may contact the customer care departments of our individual cruise lines or their travel professionals.



CURRENT RESTRICTIONS ON CHINESE PASSPORT HOLDERS
AS OF 02/10/2020*

Many countries are refusing entry to persons who have traveled from, to or through mainland China in the past 14 days, and often require Chinese guests to submit to additional health screenings and document review.

• BAHAMAS: No entry for anyone with prior 20-day mainland China travel, regardless of nationality.

• INDIA: No arrival visas for China passports.

• INDONESIA: No entry permitted to China passport holders.

• JAPAN: No entry permitted for China passports issued in Hubei and Zhejiang provinces.

• MALAYSIA: No entry permitted for China passports issued in Hubei, Zhejiang or Jiangsu provinces.

• SINGAPORE: No entry permitted for China passport holders. Ship will be denied entry.

• SRI LANKA: No arrival visas for China passport holders.

• VIETNAM: No entry permitted for China passport Holders. Ship will be denied entry.

*Please note, these restrictions are subject to change and all may not be listed.

Traveloscopy | 

Ovation of the Seas arrives Sydney

Royal Caribbean's record-breaking Ovation of the Seas has arrived in her hometown of Sydney, marking a momentous occasion for Australian cruising.  The newest, largest and most technologically advanced cruise ship to ever call Australia home ushers in a new era of holidays for Australians – known as SuperCruising.

"Ovation of the Seas is an absolute game changer for cruising down under. SuperCruising is a holiday experience unlike anything else you can find in Australia – and it can only be found on Royal Caribbean," said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Australia & New Zealand.

"Over the last decade we have committed to bringing the biggest and best cruise ships to our doorstep – and today is the climax of that story. This occasion marks the first time that a cruise line has ever based a brand new ship in this market."

"At 348m long, 18 decks high, weighing in at 168,666 tons and with capacity for 5,000 guests and 1,500 crew, Ovation of the Seas is the fourth largest cruise ship in the world, making her the largest cruise ship to sail Australian waters, and by far the largest ship ever home-ported here."

Ovation of the Seas' 6,500 passengers and crew makes her bigger than the towns of Yamba, Bega and Glenn Innes.

"With that size comes unprecedented variety: more space for relaxation, 18 different dining options, and more of the big unique amenities that Royal Caribbean is famous for, like iFly, North Star and bumper cars. Whether you're an adventure-seeker or looking for some R&R, there is truly something for everyone, all in one magnificent megaliner," Armstrong added.

Ovation of the Seas becomes Royal Caribbean's fifth locally-based cruise ship, joining sister ships Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Legend of the Seas, and making Royal Caribbean the single largest cruise line operating in Australia this season.

She will deliver significant economic benefits at each of her ports of call.  Her two-day visit to Sydney is expected to inject over $3.3 million in passenger spend alone, while her maiden Australian season is expected to inject more than $35 million into the national economy.

Royal Caribbean has long had a reputation for challenging what is possible on a cruise holiday and Ovation of the Seas continues this tradition. With a price tag of US$1 billion, she offers incredible entertainment and activities that can only be found on Royal Caribbean, or have never been seen at sea down under.  For the first time in Australia, holidaymakers will be able to:

·         Feel the thrill of sky diving at sea with the Ripcord by iFly sky diving experience

·         Soar to new heights in North Star, hovering 90 metres above sea level in a jewel-like capsule for incredible 360 degree views

·         Relax at Two70 by day – a stylish lounge area with 270 degree views from enormous windows – and by night, be immersed in spectacular multimedia entertainment by robotic dancing video-screens, dramatic digital projection and high-flying aerialists and performers

·         Enjoy action-packed fun at SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea with bumper cars, roller skating, a full size sports court, a circus school and more

·         Enjoy a perfectly mixed cocktail from two robotic bartenders at the Bionic Bar

·         Dine at Jamie's Italian – Jamie Oliver's first Australian restaurant at sea

·         Choose from a further 17 other incredible dining experiences including the enchanting Wonderland, Michael's Genuine Pub and Royal Caribbean favourites like Chops Grille Steakhouse and Izumi Japanese

·         Stream and share as you would on land thanks to VOOM – the fastest internet at sea

·         Choose from the largest and most advanced variety of staterooms yet – every room has a view with all interior staterooms fitted with virtual balconies; Family-Connected staterooms are perfect for multi-generational families or groups of friends; new balcony and interior Studio staterooms for single travellers; and luxurious multi-level Loft Suites

·         Be inspired by a world class art collection – Around 20 percent of the extensive AUD $5.9million, 11,000 piece collection onboard Ovation of the Seas is Australian. The highlight is the larger than life 'Mama and Baby' panda installation, perched atop SeaPlex

Ovation of the Seas also includes many of the features Australians have come to know and love on other Royal Caribbean ships:

·         Surf the high seas on the FlowRider – a huge surfing simulator

·         Ascend to new heights on the Rock climbing wall

·         Walk the ship's length on an indoor promenade lined with shops, restaurants and bars

·         Meet family-favourite DreamWorks characters like Shrek, Puss in Boots and Po from Kung Fu Panda

·         Swim in the sun-drenched adults-only indoor pool

·         Watch movies outdoors with the oversized pool screen

The 168,666 ton vessel is one of the greenest ships to ever visit Australian shores, setting a new standard in environmental stewardship technology. The ship is equipped with next-generation technologies such as air lubrication systems on the hull to reduce fuel consumption.  Plus Royal Caribbean has removed all incandescent lighting. She was designed and built only to use LED or fluorescent lights, many of which are operated by motion sensors, only operating when needed.

Ovation of the Seas arrived at the Overseas Passenger Terminal this morning at approximately 6am with 4,286 guests onboard concluding their special charter by Australian travel agent Cruiseco from Singapore to Sydney. 4,618 new guests will embark this afternoon and the ship will stayed docked in beautiful Sydney Harbour overnight, before departing at 4pm on 16 December on a New Zealand voyage.

"SuperCruising on Ovation of the Seas marks the dawn of a bold new era of cruising down under – and we're so proud to share this momentous occasion with the people of New South Wales," Armstrong concluded.

For further information about Ovation of the Seas, or to book a cruise visit www.ovationoftheseas.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or see your local travel agent.

World's largest cruises ships meet at sea

Royal Caribbean International's Oasis-class ships, Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas and the new Harmony of the Seas, struck a chord over the weekend, greeting each other at sea for the first and possibly only time. In a meeting of unprecedented proportions, the three record-breaking sisters came together to celebrate the U.S. arrival of Harmony of the Seas on the eve of the ship's debut in her new permanent homeport of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

The Oasis-class ships are architectural and engineering marvels, boasting industry-changing and unexpected onboard experiences. Each ship features seven themed neighbourhoods – a distinctive feature of the Oasis-class ships – and a number of spectacular amenities, adventures and thrills, including the lush and tranquil Central Park with nearly 12,000 plants and trees, FlowRider surf simulators; a thrilling 25 metre long zip line that races guests nine-decks in the air, luxurious multi-level loft suites with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, the outdoor AquaTheater that hosts dazzling high-diving, aquatic and acrobatic performances, a Boardwalk with a hand-carved carousel, and The Rising Tide Bar, the first moving bar at sea.

The newest and youngest of the three ships, Harmony of the Seas, officially claimed the title of world's largest cruise ship, beating her sisters by a mere 30 centimetres in length and nearly 1,700 gross registered tons. The ship features a bold lineup of new thrilling experiences, imaginative dining, unparalleled entertainment and the latest technology, including VOOM, the fastest internet at sea. Harmony combines the iconic seven neighbourhood concept with some of the most modern and groundbreaking amenities and offerings that will appeal to guests of all ages. From The Ultimate Abyss, a dramatic 10-story tall slide, to unparalleled entertainment including Broadway's hit musical Grease, sophisticated dining in venues ranging from Jamie's Italian Cuisine by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver to Royal Caribbean's whimsical restaurant Wonderland, which is a unique culinary adventure for the senses, and robot bartenders, there is an adventure for everyone onboard Harmony of the Seas.  

The world's largest cruise ship now joins her sister ships Oasis of the Seas homeported in Port Canaveral, and Allure of the Seas homeported in Port Everglades, sailing from the east coast of Florida. Harmony offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, providing new adventures from the islands of the Caribbean to the shores of Mexico.

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.

Radiance of the Seas makes cruise industry’s maiden call to Wollongong

Wollongong in New South Wales just became Australia's newest cruise port with the arrival of Royal Caribbean International's Radiance of the Seas: the first time a cruise ship has ever visited the South Coast tourist destination.

The 2,200 guests on board arrived in Port Kembla at 8am and were welcomed with a special fly-over by a vintage Catalina flying boat, as well as thousands of excited locals waving the ship in from vantage points along the South Coast.

"We have been working towards our call to Wollongong for quite some time. Guests onboard Radiance of the Seas had a wonderful day exploring the city and local area, making the dedication and hard work that's gone into this project for the past two and a half years all worthwhile," said Adam Armstrong, managing director, Royal Caribbean Australia & New Zealand.

Destination Wollongong General Manager, Mark Sleigh said: "When Councillor Leigh Colacino first approached Royal Caribbean to discuss bringing cruise ships to Wollongong, he promised that the community would look after their guests as well as any destination in the world.  I'm delighted that Wollongong more than delivered on that promise, and made the maiden voyage of Radiance of the Seas a day that Wollongong, and indeed our visitors, will never forget!"

Guests were treated to a special "Welcome to Wollongong" marketplace at Lang Park organized by Destination Wollongong, which showcased local produce and products from the region. More than 400 local volunteers were also on hand throughout the day to help guests get the most out of their day in port.

Seven different shore excursions also showcased the region outside of the city, with visits to scenic Bald Hill Lookout, Jamberoo Action Park, Kiama, Shellharbour Village, Symbio Wildlife Park and the tranquil Nan Tien Temple among some of the most popular.

"This was the first of many visits to Wollongong: we have now scheduled four more calls over the next 18 months with the larger 3,800-guest megaliners Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas.  In total, we expect to bring in more than 16,000 visitors and inject more than $2.8 million into the local economy," continued Armstrong.

Radiance of the Seas' single visit is estimated to have injected $385,000 into the local economy in passenger spend alone, with 75% domestic and  25% international guests – from places like the USA, Canada, UK, New Zealand, Germany, China and Taiwan – spending up big in the city and surrounding areas.

"We are very proud to be the first cruise line to bring a ship to Wollongong and this historic milestone marks the beginning of a long-term relationship between Royal Caribbean and the region.  We will continue to explore opportunities to utilise the port as an overflow to Sydney Harbour," Armstrong concluded.

Radiance of the Seas departed Wollongong at 5pm last night, making the short journey back to Sydney this morning, concluding a seven-night roundtrip voyage to Melbourne and Hobart.

At 293 metres long, 13 decks high and weighing in at over 90,000 GRT, Radiance of the Seas boasts 25 restaurants and bars, a nine-hole mini golf course, a rock climbing wall, jogging track and fitness centre as well as industry-first self-levelling pool tables. Known as the culinary ship, her main dining room can seat 1,242 guests. She also boasts a theatre that seats 900 as well as a state of the art cinema.

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.

Record Breaking Cruise Season Kicks off with the Return of Australia’s Favourite Cruise Ship, Celebrity Solstice

The arrival of Australia's highest rated cruise ship*, Celebrity Solstice to Sydney on Saturday 8 October signals the official start of a bumper international cruise season for Australia and New Zealand, as well as the biggest ever local season for RCL Cruises Ltd with a capacity increase of 15 per cent, year on year for the company's trifecta of cruise lines, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises.

"This summer, our three cruise lines and seven ships based down under will sail 101 itineraries, carrying over 300,000 guests who will inject more than $208 million in passenger spend alone in Australian ports," said Adam Armstrong, managing director for RCL Cruises in Australia and New Zealand.

Sydney itself will see an injection of more than $144 million into the local economy, with 76 calls to the port by 6 ships.

With around 15 per cent of the international RCL Cruises Ltd fleet now based in Australia and New Zealand between October and April, this season will see the company introduce two new ships, spend $11.25 million refreshing another, as well as offer a whole host of new and unique itineraries on a range of cruise ships to suit every taste.

"This is undoubtedly our biggest and most exciting season to date.  And nothing will be bigger than the debut of Royal Caribbean's all-new Ovation of the Seas. She represents not only a whole new way to cruise, but a new holiday category entirely – what we've dubbed supercruising. This is truly going to blow Australia away!"

Ovation of the Seas cost USD$1 billion to build, weighing in at 168,666 GRT with capacity for close to 5000 passengers, making her by far the largest, the newest and the most technologically advanced cruise ship to ever call Australia home.

She'll depart Singapore on 30 November and reach the Australian coast for the very first time in Fremantle on 6 December, before calling in Adelaide, Hobart and Sydney. Once she arrives at her new southern hemisphere home port of Sydney on 15 December, she'll offer seven roundtrip itineraries to New Zealand, the South Pacific and Australian destinations, plus a repositioning cruise to Singapore departing in February 2017.

Ovation of the Seas joins the South Pacific Sisters - twin sisters Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas - along with Radiance of the Seas sailing out of Sydney. Together, the biggest ships in the Southern Hemisphere will offer 65 voyages around Australia, the South Pacific, New Zealand and Asia.

Twin sister megaliners, Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas will be dedicated to the South Pacific this coming season, offering twice the fun thanks to recent US$180 million revitalisations. Until Ovation of the Seas arrives, Explorer of the Seas boasts the title of largest ship in Australia and both the South Pacific Sisters are packed full of fun for families of all shapes and sizes. They boast an array of features that can only be found on Royal, like the twin FlowRiders, ice skating rinks where the young and young at heart can test their skills and virtual balconies for real time ocean views in interior staterooms. As well as calling to idyllic destinations like Vanuatu and New Caledonia, the South Pacific Sisters will make almost double the calls of any other cruise brand to island favourite, Fiji.

Nicknamed the "culinary ship" for her rich variety of onboard dining options, Radiance of the Seas is set to make waves this season. She'll make the industry's first ever passenger cruise ship visit to Wollongong on the South Coast of NSW on 30 October 2016, plus she will make maiden calls for the cruise line to the idyllic islands of Tonga; Vava'u on 12 December 2016 and Nuku'alofa on 13 December 2016.

Legend of the Seas returns to her Brisbane homeport for her second and final season down under in November. Only two sea days from the South Pacific, she'll primarily offer voyages to Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Fiji, before bidding farewell to Australian waters in February 2017.

After kicking off the 2016/17 cruise season this weekend, Celebrity Solstice, will make her way to Singapore for an extensive $11.25 million revitalisation. Sailing her fifth consecutive local season, the modern luxury ship will return in November with stunning new features including "A Taste of Film" cinema experience under the stars, new Lawn Club cabanas, an authentic Japanese sushi restaurant and an all-new digital photo gallery.

Celebrity Solstice will offer a range of new ports and itineraries during her seven month season, including her maiden debut to the tranquil coastal NZ town of Picton on 10 April 2017, as well as a record three overnight calls to the picturesque harbour town of Tauranga in New Zealand.  She will also introduce a new Great Barrier Reef itinerary for the first time, departing Sydney 13 March 2017. 

Rounding out the season will be the maiden arrival of boutique cruise brand Azamara Club Cruises' second ship, Azamara Journey, which will her debut in February 2017, first arriving to Darwin on 8 February 2017 as part of her Asia repositioning and then to Sydney on 20 February 2017. She'll make the cruise company's maiden call to Kaikoura, New Zealand's whale watching capital, on 13 March 2017, and will remain in the region until late March, offering two Australia & New Zealand sailings and a return Asia repositioning voyage.

Fresh from an all-encompassing make over which left no space untouched, Azamara Journey's recent revitalisation saw the addition of new venues and technologies, a beautiful redesign and rework of her suites and staterooms, a complete refresh of all public spaces and pervasive wi-fi throughout.

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

* 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.

Adventure Steers Royal Caribbean 2017 European Summer Itineraries

Global Cruise Line Announces Ship Itineraries for Travellers Seeking New Destination Experiences

Royal Caribbean International sails into Europe for summer 2017 with itineraries that bring global experiences to the forefront of cruising. Widely regarded as the world's most awarded cruise line, Royal Caribbean will transport adventure-minded travellers to some of the globe's most iconic destinations via six of the brand's distinct ships, together stacking up to deliver the ultimate European summer getaways. Bookings for Europe season are now open

Travellers will venture through the majestic isles of the Eastern and Western Mediterranean on Jewel of the Seas sailing from Italy on seven- and nine-night voyages that visit Greece and Turkey, as well as seven-night sailings through the Western Mediterranean – offered more frequently with additional departures dates in 2017 – visiting France, Spain and Italy. Among the ports-of-call will be Santorini, Greece's live volcanic island cluster that summons visitors to explore its cliff-top whitewashed towns, indulge in its gastronomic splendours, and daydream from its red, white, and black sand beaches. The Greek capital city of Athens will offer a taste of life in the ancient world with exploration through legendary landmarks such as the citadel Acropolis and the temple Parthenon. Turkey's ancient town of Ephesus, dating back to the 10th century BC, will beckon history-lovers with a glimpse at the largest collection of Roman ruins in the eastern Mediterranean. An international capital of faith, art, and history, Rome will treat its guests to an unmatched blend of archeological treasures with modern appeal. While Venice's Grand Canal will guide voyagers through this floating city's bevy of architectural masterpieces and religious sanctuaries, and welcome a mid-day siesta on the steps of its waterfront structures.

Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas will host guests on seven-night sailings through the Western Mediterranean, while Brilliance of the Seas navigates eight European destinations with a 12-night itinerary, both departing from Barcelona, Spain. A stroll through this vibrant city will present a lesson in architectural mastery, thanks to Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, while Barcelona's flare for the arts will be highlighted by the country's native Picasso in his namesake museum. Food and wine lovers will take note of the ship's call in Naples, Italy – the birthplace of pizza and ever-popular lemon liquor, limoncello.

A peak inside the city's celebrated royal castles will intrigue the historically-curious, while Royal Caribbean's walking tour will journey through a 19th century underground tunnel, over to the San Carlo Opera House, and to the 17th century Carmignano aqueduct. To the east of Naples, the walled medieval town of Kotor, Montenegro will await exploration, with its plentiful shops, restaurants, piazzas, and palazzos. The cruise line's new Budva Riviera and Beach experience will offer a tranquil getaway to the country's coastal towns and villages, with a stop at Montenegro's award-winning Becici Beach.

Independence of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas will sail the Mediterranean and the Spanish Canary Islands from Southampton, England with itineraries that extend from seven- to 14-nights. Southampton's location allows for an easy city getaway to London, an excursion to the historic Stonehenge site, or the famed Downton Abby estate from the hit BBC television show. Those looking for an adrenaline-inducing experience can seek out the GoApe adventure in 440-acre Itchen Valley Country Park, complete with tunnels, suspended bridges, and zip lines through the treetops. Also on the agenda: Nice, France, the seaside town on the glamourous French Rivera, will bring sun, surf, and the sophistication of the French lifestyle. The local Cours Saley market will present a selection of fresh fruit and vegetable snacks before a hike up the city's Colline du Chateau (Castle Hill), where visitors will find a picturesque point for outdoor picnics and a children's playground amid sweeping views of Nice and its Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels). The North African country of Morocco will add an exotic touch with its cultural kaleidoscope that blends Berber, Arabian and European influences. A landing in the resort town of Agadir will grant visitors a relaxed day on the far eastern shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

Serenade of the Seas and Vision of the Seas will head to northern Europe with a checklist of ports that includes Copenhagen, Denmark, home to the 100 year old Tivoli Gardens amusement park; Tromso, Norway, located north of the Arctic Circle with an unexpectedly milder climate and peaks for soaking in seasonal views of the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun; sightseeing in the Swedish capital of Stockholm via Royal Caribbean's new paddleboard excursion, taking travellers on a water-based tour along the scenic Karlberg Canal; as well as a day spent cruising the Artic region laden with magnificent glaciers and unique wildlife.

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Royal Caribbean set for biggest season yet

3,2,1…GO! ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES KICKS OFF ITS BIGGEST, BOLDEST, RECORD-BREAKING SEASON YET

3: All three Royal Caribbean brands in Australia for the first time with Azamara Club Cruises' debut

2: Voyager-Class ships based in Sydney, Australia including new ship Explorer of the Seas

1: Legend of the Seas – the first Brisbane-based ship for RCI

9 October 2015: Today marks the start of RCL Cruises Australia's biggest, boldest season yet, with the arrival of Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas to Sydney – the first of seven of the biggest, youngest and most exceptional cruise ships to sail local waters this summer.

For the first time ever, all three RCL Cruises brands will be based down under, with Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and new arrival Azamara Club Cruises offering a range of 95 itineraries around Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and Asia.

RCL will carry a quarter of a million guests over the season with almost 60,000 of them coming from overseas countries including the USA, Canada, UK and Germany.

"Today marks the start of a record-breaking season in which we will double our guest capacity, introduce a new cruise brand to the region and offer a total of seven ships – around 20 percent of RCL's global fleet," said Gavin Smith, Regional Vice President, RCL Cruises Asia-Pacific.

"For nearly a decade we have delivered the world's biggest and best ships to Australians, offering them a cutting edge cruise product and a style of holiday that they would previously have had to travel overseas to experience," Smith continued.

Already an Australian favourite, the destination-focused Azamara Club Cruises brand will sail in Australia for the very first time this summer.  Normally based in Europe and Asia, the 686-passenger Azamara Quest arrives in Darwin on 28 December as the first of three new ships to join the local fleet this season.

Sydney's biggest summer cruise line, Royal Caribbean International, will welcome Explorer of the Seas, which sets sail from Barcelona today en route to Sydney.  The 3,800-passenger megaliner will take the title of Australia's largest cruise ship from her twin sister, Voyager of the Seas, and the ships will meet in beautiful Sydney Harbour on Saturday evening on 28 November for a historic big-ship harbour rendezvous.

Both Voyager Class vessels are the largest cruise ships based in the southern hemisphere and have recently emerged from a combined USD$160 million bow-to-stern facelift, equipping them with brand new features never seen before at sea in Australasia such as the FlowRider surf simulator and revolutionary Interior "Virtual" Balconies.

Finally, Royal Caribbean International will base a ship in Brisbane for the first time.  From 8 December, Queenslanders will have their very own world class ship, Legend of the Seas, when she commences sailing from Portside Wharf, Hamilton with no less than 15 itineraries.

The seven ships will make 185 port calls and 85 turnarounds in Australia this season, which is expected to inject more than $185 million into the local economy in passenger spending alone.


Key Dates
Friday 9 Oct: Radiance of the Seas: Arrives Sydney, kicks off RCL's cruise season

Wednesday 21 Oct: Celebrity Solstice: Arrives Sydney, starts Celebrity Cruises' local season

Thursday 5 Nov: Voyager of the Seas: Arrives Sydney, starts local season

Friday 13 Nov: Explorer of the Seas: Arrives in Fremantle (Perth), first ever Australian port

Tuesday 17 Nov: Explorer of the Seas: Maiden Adelaide call

Thursday 19 Nov: Explorer of the Seas: Maiden Melbourne call

Saturday 28 Nov: Sydney Harbour Rendezvous: Explorer of the Seas is welcomed to Sydney for the first time by twin sister Voyager of the Seas

Wednesday 2 Dec: Legend of the Seas: Arrives in Darwin – first Australian call for season

Tuesday 8 Dec: Legend of the Seas: Arrives in Brisbane to start maiden season and Royal Caribbean's first season sailing out of Brisbane

Monday 28 Dec: Azamara Quest: Arrives in Darwin – first ever Australian port call for Azamara Club Cruises

Monday 4 Jan: Azamara Quest: Maiden Cairns call

Tuesday 5 Jan: Azamara Quest: Departs Cairns on first ever local voyage

Monday 11 Jan: Azamara Quest: Maiden call in Brisbane

Thursday 14 Jan: Azamara Quest: Maiden arrival Sydney

Monday 18 Jan: Azamara Quest: Maiden arrival Melbourne

Wednesday 20 Jan: Azamara Quest: Maiden arrival Hobart

Saturday 13 Feb: Azamara Quest: Departs Sydney on last local sailing

Saturday 19 Mar: Explorer of the Seas: Maiden Hobart call

Tuesday 29 Mar: Celebrity Millennium: seventh and final ship of the season arrives in Sydney

Sunday 3 Apr: Radiance of the Seas: Departs Sydney, completing local season

Saturday 9 Apr: Celebrity Solstice: Departs Sydney, completing local season

Saturday 16 Apr: Voyager of the Seas: Departs Sydney, completing local season

Wednesday 20 Apr: Legend of the Seas: Departs Brisbane, completing local season

Saturday 23 Apr: Explorer of the Seas: Departs Sydney, wrapping up the 2015/16 international cruise season


For more information visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au, www.celebritycruises.com.au or www.azamaraclubcruises.com, call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent.

Explorer of the Seas is on her way!

She's on her way!! Explorer of the Seas, soon to be crowned largest ship to sail local waters, has begun the long voyage to our shores.



Twin sister to Aussie favourite Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas is today departing Southampton and will sail for 42 days through Europe and via Dubai, India and Asia before arriving in Perth - her first Aussie port – on 13 November.

The action packed megaliner will then depart Perth on a 16-night tour around the bottom end of Australia and New Zealand, before arriving to her new home, Sydney, on 28 November. Sydney-siders will be in for a treat on the 28th as Explorer of the Seas' twin sister (and second largest cruise ship based in Australia) Voyager of the Seas will welcome her big sister home – with both ships meeting in a historic Sydney Harbour rendezvous.

Explorer of the Seas arrives for her maiden Australian season fresh from a multimillion dollar makeover in April this year. She is now jam-packed with a host of new features to match her popular twin sister Voyager of the Seas, including a FlowRider surf machine, three new specialty restaurants, two new bars, new stateroom categories including industry-first interior Virtual Balcony staterooms with real time sights of the sea and new Panoramic staterooms with floor-to-ceiling wrap-around windows, as well as a complete refresh of all the public spaces and staterooms onboard.

Explorer of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas both also boast signature Royal Caribbean features including the iconic ice-skating rink, rock climbing wall, a full-size basketball and sports court, and the Royal Promenade – an interior boulevard that runs nearly the length of the ship flanked by restaurants, lounges and boutiques where spectacular parades and evening dance parties are held.

Below is a shot of Explorer of the Seas meeting Anthem of the Seas (and an Isle of White ferry) in Southampton

Only three days left to win a a cruise with MKR grand finalists Will & Steve and Jac & Shaz

MKR’s nail-biting finale on Tuesday night saw Will & Steve and Jac & Shaz battle it out for the honour of being crowned the 2015 champions and as a proud sponsor, Royal Caribbean International’s Captain Ryan announced that the cruise line will host both teams onboard the state-of-the-art Legend of the Seas when she sails from Sydney on 11 June 2015.

The MKR winners, Will & Steve, and runners up Jac & Shaz, will be able to sample the full range of Royal Caribbean’s culinary offering onboard, as well as design and present a special MKR-inspired menu to the Captain’s Table and three lucky Australians.

For fans of My Kitchen Rules, the opportunity to wine and dine with Will & Steve and Jac & Shaz has never been closer. Until 8 May 2015, entries are open for three competition winners and a guest to join the cruise and enjoy the decadent dining experience at the Captain’s Table. The menu will be designed and presented by Will & Steve and Jac & Shaz, using inspiration from their unbeatable dishes served to the discerning MKR judges throughout the top-rating show.

For the ultimate foodie experience, teams Will & Steve and Jac & Shaz will also attend a VIP cocktail party onboard the ship, where the lucky winners of the competition will be able to hear all about Will & Steve and Jac & Shaz’s culinary tips and inspiration behind the winning dishes. In addition, each winner will receive a US$200 credit to spend on board to wine and dine in even more style throughout the cruise, plus return flights to and from their nearest capital city.

Entries are open now. Head to www.royalcaribbean.com.au/mkr and watch the three different Royal Caribbean restaurant clips, highlighting the cruise line’s range of world class dining. Choose your favourite and tell us why in 25 words or less.

But hurry, the competition closes 11.59pm Friday 8 May 2015.

For more information about Royal Caribbean International or to book a cruise, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or see your local travel agent.

Legend of the Seas arrives in Brisbane in December 2015 for her inaugural season down under. Following an extensive $50 million revitalisation in 2013, the 70,000 tonne ship boasts new facilities that guests won’t find onboard any other cruise ship sailing from Brisbane: a central Atrium with an acrobatic aerial show, a rock climbing wall, a mini-golf course, an indoor swimming pool, a babies nursery and multiple speciality dining venues including a Sushi restaurant and a 12-seat private dining room. She also features a stunning two-deck grand dining room, an 800-seat theatre, the Vitality Spa & Fitness centre, a beauty salon a shopping arcade.

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Massive Ovation of the Seas to be based in Sydney

BRAND-NEW BILLION DOLLAR CRUISE SHIP COMING TO AUSTRALIA

Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas to be based in Australia for 2016/17 season

Royal Caribbean International, the world’s largest cruise brand, announced today that Australia will welcome its very own brand new cruise ship for the first time when Ovation of the Seas arrives in Sydney for the peak summer season from December 2016.

Currently under construction in Germany and with a price tag of USD$1 billion, the Quantum Class megaliner will not only claim the title of the largest cruise ship to ever call Australia home – carrying almost 5,000 guests and 1,500 crew – but also the most technologically advanced.

“Royal Caribbean has been breaking the boundaries in Australian cruising since we arrived in 2007 but today, we have completely changed the face of the cruise industry, making the single largest investment in Australia by any cruise line,” said Gavin Smith, regional vice president, Royal Caribbean, Asia Pacific.

“While we’ve introduced many firsts to Australia, including the newest, largest and most modern megaliners with features like ice skating and surfing at sea, this is the very first time any cruise line in the world has home ported a brand new ship in Australia.”

“We dream big at Royal Caribbean. We create the world’s most imaginative holidays and this has never been truer than for Quantum Class ships. Ovation of the Seas will completely redefine the idea of cruising in Australia, taking the industry to the next level by offering a host of incredible never-before-seen features and technologies.

“This demonstrates our belief in, and long term commitment to, the Australian cruising market. We believe that Australians shouldn’t need to travel overseas to experience the kind of cruise holiday we stand for; the most innovative and amazing ships anywhere in the world are available right here on your doorstep.

“With almost five thousand guests and 1500 crew onboard, the arrival of Ovation of the Seas in Australia and New Zealand will deliver significant economic benefits at each of her ports of call,” Smith said.

When Ovation arrives, Australians will experience the first Ripcord by iFLY at sea down under, where the thrill and excitement of skydiving comes to life from onboard a cruise ship.

The North Star aerial observatory offers breathtaking 360 degree views more than 90 metres above the sea. In a jewel-like capsule, a robotic arm elevates guests high into the sky, taking in the sights from a bird’s eye view wherever in the world the ship happens to be. In Sydney Harbour, the North Star will reach higher than the pylons on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The Bionic Bar lets guests place an order for their favourite cocktail via a tablet, before two incredible bionic arms create the perfect mix in tune to the resident DJ, shaking and stirring great cocktails without any human assistance.

‘Two70’ is a multipurpose, transformative space; an expansive lounge boasting 270 degree ocean views by day becomes an immersive, multimedia entertainment spectacular at night, fusing technology with entertainment using robotic video-screens, dramatic digital projection and high-flying aerialists and performers.

Guests onboard the SmartShip will be more connected than on any other cruise ship in the world, with high speed wi-fi allowing them to stay in touch and share more of their experiences with friends and family onshore.

Radio frequency wristband technology does away with the need to carry a cabin key, and a dedicated app, Royal iQ, lets guests book onboard experiences from their own device, including making a booking at any of the 18 distinct restaurants.

Quantum Class ships feature cuisine as vast and varied as the world itself. These dining destinations range from fun to formal settings, including partnerships with world renowned chefs, such as the much-loved “Jamie’s Italian” from Jamie Oliver at sea.

Jamie Oliver said, "I'm super-excited that Ovation of the Seas will be sailing out of Australia, and with a Jamie's Italian on board! This will be our third restaurant with Royal Caribbean, and it's been a real honour to work with their team. The response we've had to Quantum of the Seas – our first restaurant at sea – has been brilliant, so it just makes me even more excited for this one to open."

Meanwhile, SeaPlex will be the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea, offering bumper cars, a basketball court, roller skating, circus school and more.

Even while providing an incredible array of onboard activities, Quantum Class ships use less energy than ships built just a few years ago, by more efficiently configuring the hull and engine designs and equipping them with state of the art high efficiency systems and appliances. Ovation of the Seas will be delivered with an "Air Lubrication System" which reduces the hull's friction with the water, reducing fuel consumption. Ovation will also be built with advanced emissions purification (AEP) systems, also known as scrubbers, which remove more than 97% of the sulfur dioxide emissions generated by the engines. These AEP systems are progressively being retro-fitted to many of the ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Ovation of the Seas is the third ship in the ground-breaking Quantum Class and will be the fifth ship in the Royal Caribbean Australian fleet for summer 2016/17, joining four other superliners –Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas in Sydney and Legend of the Seas in Brisbane – offering an expansive range of the newest, most modern and exciting style of cruising Australians have ever experienced.

Cruise fares will start from $199 a day. Bookings for Ovation of the Seas’ maiden Australian season open mid-way through 2015, but guests are encouraged to register their interest at www.royalcaribbean.com.au/Ovation to be the first to receive information on her sailings down under when details are announced.

Azamara Club Cruises Kicks Off First Australasian Season and the Brand Will Return for a Third Season in 2018

Azamara Clubs Cruises has announced details of Azamara Quest's maiden season in Australasia, including its spectacular AzAmazing Evenings taking place at a number of ports such as Darwin, Newcastle and Cairns. The boutique cruise brand, renowned for its elegant cruising style and destination focus, will debut in Australia and New Zealand for the first time arriving in Darwin on 28 December 2015. The line has also confirmed they will deploy a ship to Australia for a third season, with Azamara Journey coming for the first time in 2017 and Azamara Quest returning in 2018.



Each Azamara Club voyage features Azamara Club's exclusive, bespoke AzAmazing Evening events - a specially created, complimentary night tour that offers a slice of a destination's authentic culture and character, and which provide a significant boost to the local communities to which the line sails.

In Darwin, guests will be treated to an evening at Crocosaurus Cove where they will meet the world's largest captive reptile collection, including nearly 200 saltwater crocodiles. The can't-miss moment of the night is the Cage of Death. As a handful of the ship's brave officers drop into a protected tank, giant crocodiles — some of the largest in captivity — approach for a little nose-to-nose time. The unique event continues with a ceremonial demonstration by representatives of the Larrakia people. As the ceremony winds down, guests can take the chance to hold some of the smaller reptiles that make their home at this incredible adventure center.

In Newcastle, guests will enjoy an incredible evening of local entertainment by local Australian artist, Olivia Chindamo, at Fort Scratchley. This historic and majestic site, which guards the Hunter River Estuary, is undoubtedly Newcastle's most spectacular vantage point.

In Cairns, the line will offer a journey into Australia's Aboriginal dreamtime for an unforgettable evening of world-class entertainment including authentic music, chanting and dance that culminates in a traditional fire making ceremony by the local Tjapukai people. Guests will be immersed in the spectacle of a corroboree depicting the thrill of the hunt and the ancient totems of the rainforest people.

Azamara Clubs Cruises is also revitalising its two 686-passenger jewel-box ships with an extensive makeover in time for their Australasian itineraries. Azamara Quest will be upgraded in September 2015 and Azamara Journey will complete her dry dock in January 2016, before she then commences her season down under in 2017.

“We love Australia – even before our ships have sailed local waters, Australians already make up one of the top three nationalities that cruise with us and Australia is one of our biggest growth markets. So it is a great pleasure to announce the details for the coming seasons, at the same time as both of our ships will be extensively upgraded for our Australasian guests,” said Larry Pimentel, President and CEO, Azamara Club Cruises in Sydney.

“Since 2007, more than 15,000 Aussies have sailed with Azamara Club Cruises. In 2014 alone, almost 4,000 Australian guests experienced the award winning Azamara difference. We are thrilled to finally be able to bring the brand to Australasian shores”, Larry said.

With smaller ships that are able to go to places other cruise ships can't, Azamara Club differentiates itself - and gains loyal fans - by making destinations the star of the show. It does this by offering longer stays, more overnight calls and night touring, which gives travellers the opportunity to truly experience a destination - taking in the sights, sounds and flavours of local cultures in every port.

Azamara Club's Insider Access takes guests behind the scenes at heritage estates, family farms, local shops and art galleries. Guests enjoy quiet conversations, shared stories and laughter with their hosts, gaining valuable insights and appreciation of local culture. Nights and Cool Places are exclusive after-dinner experiences in small, intimate groups, ranging from a harbour yacht experience to a private gallery tour with a famous local artist.

This year, Azamara Club has also launched its highly-anticipated Cruise Global, Eat Localprogram, featuring carefully curated dining experiences around the globe. We They do the sleuthing to lead guests to places the locals frequent, from a traditional family trattoria to a dim sum feast.

While destinations are the highlight, what's onboard also keeps guests coming back for more. Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest guests receive exceptional and personal service and enjoy fine cuisine and boutique wines from around the world. More is included in each cruise – such as beverages, gratuities, self-service laundry, English Butler service for suite guests and shuttle transportation to city centres in ports, where available.

Also newly launched its new Exclusive Nights in Private Places program, offering an evening of luxurious private pampering, dining and sleeping under the stars on the private Thalassotherapy deck. This reservation-only experience for two includes private butler service, champagne and canapés, a beautiful buffet and seafood and meats cooked over a sizzling hot stone grill. A plush outdoor bed can be opened to the stars or enclosed with a roof panel and curtains.

Full details of Azamara Club's 2018 Australasian will be announced in the coming months. Details for Azamara Club's 2017 season is available now and open for booking. For further information or to book an Azamara Club Cruise, visit www.azamaraclubcruises.com/en-au, phone 1800 754 500 or contact your local travel agent.

Azamara Club Cruises is a brand of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSX: RCL), a global cruise holiday company that also owns Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, and CDF Croisières de France, as well as TUI Cruises through a 50 per cent joint venture. Together, the six brands operate a combined total of 41 ships with four under construction. They operate diverse itineraries around the world that call on approximately 460 destinations on all seven continents.

RCL Cruises Ltd Australia commenced operation in December 2008 as the Australian arm of global cruise holiday company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. The company offers three cruise brands in Australia and New Zealand: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. In the 2014/2015 cruise season, Royal Caribbean International will be the largest cruise operator in Sydney, with three ships sailing in the region: Voyager of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. In the 2015/2016 local cruise season Royal Caribbean International will increase the local fleet to four ships:Legend of the Seas home porting in Brisbane; along with Explorer of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas home porting in Sydney. Celebrity Solstice will also sail her fourth local season out of Sydney.


Connect with Azamara Club Cruises

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AzamaraClubCruises

Twitter: @AzamaraVoyages

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Largest cruise ship in the world - Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas will span 16 decks, encompass 227,000 gross registered tons, carry 5,479 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,747 staterooms. The Oasis class is an architectural marvel touting Royal Caribbean’s exclusive seven neighbourhood concept, including Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place and Youth Zone.

With Quantum-class ships Anthem of the Seas (launching in April 2015 in Southampton, U.K.) and Ovation of the Seas (debuting in April 2016), Harmony of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean’s third new ship to launch throughout the next 18 months. Itineraries for Ovation of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas will be announced this coming March.

Royal Caribbean International is an award-winning global cruise brand with a 45-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry “firsts” never before seen at sea. The cruise line features an expansive and unmatched array of features and amenities only found on Royal Caribbean including, jaw-dropping, Broadway-style entertainment and industry-acclaimed programming that appeals to families and adventurous holidaymakers alike.

For more information about Royal Caribbean International or to make a booking, visit royalcaribbean.com.au, call 1800 754 500 or visit your local travel agent.

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Royal Caribbean names latest mega-liner Harmony of the Seas.

source: www.cruiseweekly.com.au

Cruising giant Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd has just announced the name of its third Oasis-class vessel, with Harmony of the Seas to join sister-vessels Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas in service from Apr next year. The mega-liner is currently under construction at the STX shipyard in St Nazaire, France.

On its debut, Harmony of the Seas will claim the mantle of the largest cruise ship in the world at 227,700GRT, with capacity for 6,360 guests as maximum occupancy, slightly larger than Oasis and Allure. It will be a true gargantuan on the open oceans, with renderings showing features such as multiple water slides entering separate pools on both sides of a large open-air street and park area in the centre of the ship.

Royal Caribbean has hinted that the third Oasis vessel will offer a number of unique features and amenities, while retaining many of the popular elements of its twin predecessors.

Construction on a fourth Oasis-class vessel began earlier this month, well ahead of a projected 2018 debut.Traveloscopy | 

Celebrity Cruises and Randi Zuckerberg Encourage Guests to Find Tech-Life Balance

Finding the Right Balance: Celebrity Cruises and Randi Zuckerberg Encourage Guests to 'Take Care of YourSelfie'

Celebrity Cruises has partnered with digital trailblazer Randi Zuckerberg as part of a year-long campaign to “Take Care of YourSelfie.” The modern luxury cruise brand has revealed a unique program curated by Randi to encourage guests to find a tech-life balance while on holiday. The first part of the program is a new lineup of specially designed spa treatments and services available at Canyon Ranch SpaClub onboard Celebrity's modern luxury ships beginning February 2015.



Zuckerberg, Editor-in-Chief of Dot Complicated, an online website that navigates the ever-evolving universe of technology and social media, curated the one-of-a-kind program to inspire guests to take a break from their daily dose of technology and recharge.

As a pioneer in the tech-life balance movement, Zuckerberg encourages the importance of finding time for one’s self, both online and off. “The digital revolution has changed and enriched every facet of our lives, and now more than ever, it is essential for us to find a healthy tech-life balance,” says Zuckerberg. “Celebrity Cruises is a leader in providing relaxing and restorative cruise holidays, and by partnering with them, I hope to inspire moments of logging off and shutting down for a few hours or even a day. We want guests to explore ways to embrace a balance that complements their lifestyle onboard and at home.”

"When I heard Randi talk about Take Care of YourSelfie, I realised I was a perfect candidate for this program," says Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. "Like so many of our guests, I live a connected, always-on life, with a great reliance on technology. Randi's fresh approach helps bring balance back into our lives, and is another way to make sure our guests enjoy a relaxing, restorative holiday."

Lutoff-Perlo added: “The new program perfectly complements our luxurious accommodations, award-winning dining, rich destination experiences and intuitive service. I can’t wait to sign up for one of the treatments."

As the first instalment of the new, exclusive Take Care of YourSelfie program, the spa treatments and services curated by Zuckerberg will be available onboard Celebrity ships at Canyon Ranch SpaClub operated by Canyon Ranch – leaders in spa and wellness:

• “fACEial Time” (Environ Ultimate Vitamin Therapy): This facial is designed to effectively treat a wide range of skin care needs related to staring at computer and tablet screens. This facial provides intense penetration of active ingredients – including skin-nourishing antioxidants, peptides and vitamins A, C and E – for visible results.
• “InstaGlow” (Detoxifying Ritual with Signature Add-On): A detoxifying 100-minute ritual with a signature add-on creates an intense, therapeutic transformation. The Red Flower cleansing body scrub includes coffee, olive stones and fresh lemons as well as rich rhassoul clay to draw out impurities. Guests can set the intention add-on at the beginning to take time to disconnect and be in the moment for this rejuvenating treatment.
• “Get wrAPPed” (Seaweed Peat Wrap): This VOYA organic seaweed peat body wrap treats a variety of skin and rheumatic conditions and increases detoxification by mixing seaweed extracts with micronized peat. The treatment is richly infused with trace elements, vitamins, carbohydrates, polyphenols, lipids, and humic acid to help drain toxic substances from the body.
• “Texticure” (Hands So Soft Manicure): A warm paraffin manicure hydrates dry skin, softens cuticles and soothes aching joints like nothing else. This beauty treatment combines nail polishing and buffing with skin softening and moisturizing. The entire hand is dipped in paraffin wax to seal in softness and moisture. This experience is the perfect treat for hands always texting and responding to emails.
• “Control ALT Delight” (Unique yoga experience with T-Spheres): This mind-body yoga workout features T-Spheres to help stretch and flex out of the workstation slump or texting crouch. The pressure-point experience facilitates unwinding with quiet, precise movements that corrects poor body alignment, increases flexibility, relieves mental stress and promotes restorative sleep.

In 2014, Celebrity Cruises partnered with Canyon Ranch to unveil the largest and most comprehensive Canyon Ranch SpaClub at Sea offering onboard its luxurious ships. The state-of-the-art facilities include spa, beauty, wellness, and fitness amenities, with signature Canyon Ranch offerings and those exclusive to Celebrity.

For more information about Celebrity Cruises or to book a cruise, visit www.celebritycruises.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent.

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First Look Into New Suite Class Restaurant - “Luminae”

Celebrity Cruises Reveals Name, Menu and Look of First-ever Exclusive Suite Dining Experience

Inspired by the essence of light, exceptional food, wine and luxury – Celebrity Cruises has revealed the first look into newly named “Suite Class” restaurant, “Luminae”. Guests who indulge in the premium brand’s Suite Class now can discover more details about the exclusive dining experience. Luminae will be introduced onboard Celebrity’s modern luxury ships beginning in April.

Guests dining at the brand's first suite restaurant will enjoy warm hospitality, impeccable Celebrity service, and eclectic, one-of-a-kind menus that are only available in Luminae.

Celebrity's dedicated team of chefs has created the new elegant menus for the venue’s complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner - each menu item will only be featured once during a two-week cruise holiday. With handcrafted dishes that are made from scratch, the unique menus will also feature locally sourced regional and seasonal ingredients inspired by the destinations Celebrity sails to among the world’s seven continents.

"Everything about Luminae embodies an inspirational culinary journey for our guests. We want them to savour soulful, technique-driven cuisine, while enjoying warm and personalised service in a relaxed, stylish setting," said John Suley, James Beard-featured Executive Chef, Celebrity Cruises. "The menus will be exquisite and guests can choose from dishes such as caviar and crème fraîche, a creamy black truffle risotto with fricassee of wild mushrooms and Parmigiano-Reggiano and a côte de bœuf with roasted root vegetables and béarnaise sauce. The handcrafted desserts will provide the sweetest ending, and a favourite of mine is the mascarpone cheesecake and pistachio nougatine with yuzu brown butter and apricot sorbet. Every menu has been precisely designed with our guests’ varied palates in mind, and we hope they will love our informal, luxury dining experience."

With special touches like tableside preparation of signature dishes and the daily presentation of a new delectable gourmet chocolates and desserts cart, the menus are complete with pairings made by the restaurant’s dedicated head sommelier. The wine list, specially designed for Luminae guests, will feature more than 400 selections, each from the most notable wine-producing countries of the world.

Realising Celebrity's Suite Class experience – the culmination of warm intuitive service, award-winning dining and upscale benefits – Luminae is a culinary experience of modern, diverse cuisine that will scintillate the tastebuds.

For full details about new Suite Class restaurant Luminae, visit celebritycruises.com/luminae

Royal Caribbean International’s newest cruise ship Quantum of the Seas

Modern New Ship is Quantum Leap Forward for Cruise Industry



“Quantum of the Seas isn’t just changing cruising, it’s changing how today’s traveller holidays,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “It’s not just how you travel; it’s the experience from start to finish. With Quantum we are empowering our guests to customise every aspect of their journey, providing them an unprecedented level of freedom and flexibility.”

The official naming ceremony for Quantum of the Seas will take place on Friday, 14 November during the pre-inaugural celebration hosted by the ship’s godmother, Kristin Chenoweth.

Highlights of Quantum of the Seas include:

The Smartest Ship at Sea

Unprecedented levels of technology amp up the holiday experience on board Quantum of the Seas which allows for the utmost in simplicity, efficiency and customisation. Guests can be online and connected 24/7 should they choose to be, thanks to superfast wireless speeds that match broadband connections onshore, while RFID luggage tags provide the option of tracking luggage in real time through smartphones, and a downloadable app, Royal iQ, empowers guests to manage every detail of their holiday during the cruise. Not to mention robots! Technology also enables a number of surprise-and-delight elements on Quantum of the Seas, including a brand new venue, Bionic Bar powered by Makr Shakr that is set to make waves with robots at centre stage.

Activities that Make You Say “WOW”

Royal Caribbean added to its portfolio of exclusive, ground-breaking onboard experiences that have never before been imagined at sea with a skydiving experience called RipCord by iFLY, as well as the engineering marvel North Star, a glass observation capsule that gently rises more than 300 feet in the air to treat guests to dramatic 360-degree views. More “firsts” including bumper cars, a circus school with flying trapeze and roller skating can be found inside SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea.

A New Era of Dining at Sea

Cruise ship dining has also been modernised onboard Quantum of the Seas with Dynamic Dining, where guests have total control of their own culinary journey and can choose from a landscape of 18 distinctive restaurants. Five complimentary, full-service restaurants replace the traditional, common main dining room, while a variety of specialty restaurants will wow even the savviest foodies, including the new multi-sensory venue Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine, as well as concepts from award-winning chefs Jamie Oliver, Michael Schwartz and Devin Alexander.

Show-Stopping Entertainment

Technology headlines Quantum’s entertainment with a line-up of first of their kind productions and performances, and is most prevalent in the ship’s transformational new venue Two70. Here the most highly advanced digital displays, Vistarama and Roboscreens, intertwine with live performers, music and special effects to deliver spectacular, multidimensional shows and events that have never before been seen on land, let alone at sea. The Royal Theater is home to Broadway’s smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! as well as an all-new headline show, Sonic Odyssey, which was inspired by musician and innovator William Close and his variety of one-of-a-kind majestic instruments, while the all-new Music Hall sets the stage for live music featuring bands, musicians, DJs, theme night parties and more.

Spacious Rooms with a View

Sophisticated in design and big on size – an average of nine percent larger than those of Oasis class ships – the 2,090 staterooms onboard Quantum of the Seas are Royal Caribbean’s largest and most advanced yet. Guests can choose from a wide selection of categories, including Family-Connected staterooms that are perfect for multi-generational families or groups of friends, new balcony and interior Studio staterooms that were created for single travellers, as well as Virtual Balcony staterooms, which are interior accommodations with large digital screens displaying real time views that ensure every room has a view.

What’s more, Quantum’s lofts and suites are the most luxurious yet, and were designed with insight from HGTV star Genevieve Gorder, who was Quantum Experience Advisor for Design.

Shopping, Fitness, Family and More!

Every aspect of Quantum of the Seas is complete with the newest, most sophisticated features at sea. The retail offerings, which can be found within the Royal Esplanade and The Via, boast an unparalleled collection of celebrated brands including Cartier, Kiehl’s, BVLGARI and Hublot. State-of-the-art fitness facilities make it easy and inspiring to stay fit while on holiday, with all-new options including Technogym equipment, as well as well as professionally instructed Flywheel, TRX and Beach Bootcamp classes, which were influenced by former NFL linebacker Dhani Jones, who worked with Royal Caribbean as Quantum Experience Advisor for Sports and Fitness. And there’s fun for the whole family, thanks to a number of new enhancements to Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, including a fully-equipped Adventure Science Lab, as well as the very first wave pool at sea, which debuts as part of the DreamWorks Animation Madagascar-themed H2O Zone.

Quantum-class ships span 16 guest decks; encompass 168,666 gross registered tons; carry 4,180 guests at double occupancy; and feature 2,090 staterooms. For more information, please visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com/QuantumoftheSeas. Media can stay up-to-date by visiting RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com.

For more information about Royal Caribbean International or to make a booking, visit royalcaribbean.com.au, call 1800 754 500 or visit your local travel agent.

Quantum Of The Seas Starts Her Journey Down The EMS River

The pace of life in Lower Saxony, Germany is relaxed and slow, and a drive through the area, along the banks of the River Ems, will reveal miles of pastures, wetlands and farmland dotted with small towns and villages.

But this week there’s a lot of excitement in this northwestern district as one of the world’s largest cruise ships makes its journey, or conveyance, from the shipbuilding town of Papenburg out to the North Sea.

The fuss is about Quantum of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International’s newest and most technologically advanced cruise ship, which was constructed at Meyer Werft, a family owned Papenburg-based shipyard.  

The conveyance is a unique process for ships built here, as Meyer Werft is unconventionally situated inland, along the banks of the River Ems, to avoid the impact of storms on the North Sea.  This makes it necessary for ships to travel down the river to get to the sea.

“For hours we are actually taking the ship along this very, very tight channel where there is only about two to three feet of distance on each side between the ship and the river bank,” said Patrik Dahlgren, Vice President for Marine Operation at Royal Caribbean International.  “We can’t set a firm date or time for the conveyance because it’s all timed with the tides and weather conditions to help balance the movements of the ship along the river.”

While the conveyance of ships is not new for Meyer Werft – the shipyard has been doing this since 1795 – there are plenty of challenges to having a successful conveyance, and Quantum of the Seas will be especially demanding due to the size of the ship.At 348 meters long (1,141.73 feet long), 41.4 meters wide (135.8 feet wide) and weighing in at 168,666 gross tons, this ship is the largest ever to go through conveyance.

“With Quantum being the largest ship that has ever been built at Meyer Werft, there are some power lines that need to be rerouted, and some bridges along the river actually have to be lifted out of the way with a crane to allow the ship to pass, including one that is used by one of the main railways into Holland,” continued Dahlgren.

Making the process even more of a spectacle, ships are conveyed backwards because it’s usually easier to maneuver them in reverse, and Quantum’s journey will be managed the same way.  Thousands of revelers from the surrounding local villages along the 26 mile route typically gather at the river bank to watch and celebrate each ship’s distinct journey.

What happens once the ship completes the conveyance?  Quantum of the Seas will dock in Eemshaven, The Netherlands, where she will begin a series of tests, called sea trials, to measure the vessel’s seaworthiness, as well as test things like speed, maneuverability, equipment and safety features.

Come November, crowds will once again line a river bank to catch a glimpse as Quantum passes by, only this time it will be as she sails through the New York harbor… and she’ll be sailing forward instead of in reverse.