PRICE $8.25 (INCL GST)

FEBRUARY 2013 ISSUE 81

16TH YEAR OF PUBLICATIONESTABLISHED 1998

Featuring a comprehensive coverage of Global Cruising for Cruise Passengers, the Trade and the Industrywww.cruisingnews.com

Predictions - Asia will account for 3.7 million passengersin 2017 and grow to 7 million by 2020 – see Page 4

highlights

Editor’s Say

3

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

As we start our 16th year of publishing Cruising News we are encouraged by the continued growth of the industry world-wide. The current South Pacific cruise season with the new ships is attracting a large number of new cruisers along with many repeat passengers. Then we turn to Asia where predictions are for the industry there to account for 3.7 million passengers in 2017 and grow to 7 million by 2020. We look forward to keeping you informed with the latest news and information throughout the year.

Congratulations Ann Sherry AO

Sydney’s Macquarie University has awarded an honorary doctorate to Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry AO in recognition of her significant contribution to

the government and corporate sectors. Ms Sherry was cited as a true leader credited with transforming industries that she had led. The Doctor of Letters award acknowledged her standing in the business community and the wider community. Ann Sherry was appointed CEO of Carnival Australia in 2007 and her time at the helm has seen the transformation of the cruise industry and double digit annual growth in consecutive years.

Rescue Operation Recognised

Recognising Orion’s involvement in the complex and successful rescue of solo round-world sailor Alain Delord from the Southern Ocean SAR operation, John

Rice on behalf of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) made an informal presentation to Captain Taylor presenting him with a Certificate of Appreciation.

New Ships

March will see the christening of two new ships, the MSC Preziosa and AIDAstella. MSC Preziosa will be christened by screen legend Sophia Loren in the Italian port of Genoa on 23 March and in the wings will be sister ships MSC Splendida and MSC Opera. AIDAstella, the 10th member of the fleet, will have 10 godmothers on the stage for the christening ceremony on the evening of 16 March in Rostock-Warnemünde.

Serving the Community Holland America Line has announced “On •Deck for a Cause,” a new shipboard giving program that will benefit six international cancer organisations located in the United States, Canada, Australia, Netherlands, Germany and United Kingdom.

By the end of 2012, MSC Cruises’ three-•and-a-half year partnership with UNICEF and their joint “Get on Board for Children” initiative has raised two million Euros for an innovative project designed to combat poverty and inequality by helping ensure that disadvantaged Brazilian children gain access to quality education.

Here in Australia P&O have an •exciting partnership with Save the Children – see story on Page 37

Happy Cruising

John TreacyBreaking News - Royal Caribbean International has taken a major step in the development of the cruise line’s next generation of cruise ships when the first piece of steel was cut for the first of two Project Sunshine ships. To celebrate the milestone, Royal Caribbean announced the names of the two new ships – Quantum of the Seas, set to debut in 2014 and Anthem of the Seas, which will follow in 2015.

The Astor will join Cruise & Maritime Voyages in November this year under a three year seasonal charter to operate twice yearly ocean voyages between the UK, Australia and South Africa and the launch of a summer season of cruises from Fremantle commencing 12 December 2013

www.cruisingnews.com for

News Updates & Photo Files

Front Cover: Images from Celebrity Cruises/Eugene Tan and Ian Hunter

Plus the latest news and information on Global

Passenger Cruising

ABN 71 083 652 019Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every

effort is made to ensure the information published is correct

ISSN 1447 - 2112

Proudly Published in Australia by

this issUE

Fantastic Cruise Season .................... P4-6MSC Christening. ............................... P16Future of QE2 ..................................... P18ICCA Industry Awards ...................... P20SeaDream II & Places Visited............ P28-30New Look Celebrity Millennium .... P42River Cruising News.......................... P46-48Photo Gallery ...................................... P50-51

Rescue by Orion P20

On Board Celebrity Solstice P30-32

MSC Splendida & Places Visited P34-36

4

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Cruising Industry Continues to Grow

The current cruise season has introduced many newcomers to cruising and is receiving an incredible number of repeat passengers that cruising statistics for the year 2012 when released at the end of April should show impressive growth for the industry. Ports of call throughout Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific have benefitted enormously from the cruise ships sailing the region. There is an unprecedented choice of ships available and in the future we should see more of the big ships arriving. Voyager of the Seas, Celebrity Solstice, Carnival Spirit (now based in Australia) and Oosterdam have led the way introducing new experiences for passengers. The quality dining and on board features on all ships are proving to be the attention grabbers as passengers decide on which ship to cruise. It is definitely the beginning of a new era in cruising from Australia. It is now hoped that port facilities will be improved to handle the increased number of ships. As this magazine goes to press many ships on round the world cruises are still to arrive – Europa, Aurora, Seabourn Quest, Queen Victoria, Balmoral, Arcadia, Costa Delziosa, Pacific Princess, Queen Mary 2, Marina and Ocean Princess – visiting various ports in the region. Unfortunately Saga Ruby has had to cancel her world cruise because of mechanical problems and is expected to sail a reduced scheduled taking in South America. Unfortunately we will now not see Saga Ruby again as she retires at the end of the year. Voyager of the Seas, Celebrity Solstice and Oosterdam are already booked to return for 2013/14 season. Others with port bookings include Celebrity Millennium, Volendam, Diamond Princess, Amsterdam, Europa, Seabourn Odyssey, Silver Shadow, Aurora, Seven Seas Voyager, Columbus 2, Silver Whisper, Seabourn Sojurn, Pacific Princess, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, Costa Deliziosa, Amadea, Artania, Crystal Symphony, Astor, Balmoral and Ocean Princess and booked during May is The World. Meanwhile the first-ever cruise forum by the Hong Kong Tourism Board was held recently with more than 150 international professionals from the cruise industry, including representatives from the region’s port authorities and tourism bureaux. Through seminars, site visits, networking sessions and other activities, the participants exchanged the latest information on cruise developments in Hong Kong and Asia to develop business collaboration. Among the speakers were industry heavyweights Mr Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman and CEO, Carnival Asia; Mr John Tercek, Vice President, Commercial Development, Royal Caribbean Cruises

Voyager of the Seas departing Sydney – Robert Miller

Presentation on Voyager of the Seas

Columbus 2 – Jonathan Crabb

Drawing of New Hong Kong Terminal

5

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Ltd; Mr Bruce Krumrine, Vice President of Shore Operations, Europe & Exotica, Princess Cruises; Mr Antonio de Rosa, Vice President, Asia Fleet Operations, Costa Crociere S.p.A; Mr John Stoll, Vice President, Land & Port Operations, Crystal Cruises Inc; Mr Michael Pawlus, Director, Strategic Itinerary Planning & Scheduling, Silversea Cruises Ltd; Mr Graeme Adams, Vice President, Voyage Planning, Port & Land Programs, SeaDream Yacht Club; Ms Ong Huey Hong, Director, Cruise, Singapore Tourism Board; and Dr Zinan Liu, Chairman, Asia Cruise Association. Support for cruising in Asia is expected to take a dramatic turn upward according to Carnival Asia CEO Pier Luigi Foschi. He said “Asia will account for 3.7 million passengers in 2017 and grow to 7 million by 2020 with the real growth coming from China”. The Asia Cruise Association said that about 1.7 million Asian passengers cruised in 2011. Development of new cruise facilities are under way with the opening of a terminal in Singapore last year and Hong Kong later this year. During the forum the international delegates and members of Hong Kong’s Advisory Committee on Cruise Industry visited the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal with phase one to open in June 2013The industry will be watching the Asia/Pacific market for the growth trends.

Celebrity Solstice – Sydney – Eugene Tan

Voyager of the Seas and Seabourn Odyssey – Robert Miller

Silver Shadow – Robert Miller

Drawing of New Hong Kong Terminal

6

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Exciting New Cruises for Summer 2013-14

Following a tremendous 2012-13 cruise season Royal Caribbean International has announced the addition of three new cruises in its 2013-14 Australasian summer season, including two new South Pacific sailings on Voyager of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. Due to the growing demand for shorter cruises, Royal Caribbean will also now offer an additional three-night Weekend Sampler cruise on Voyager of the Seas in January 2014.“Voyager of the Seas has been a huge hit with Australians and we are experiencing unprecedented demand for South Pacific Island and Sampler cruises. Because we love giving our guests what they want, we’ve altered next season’s cruises on Voyager of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas to provide more of these popular itineraries,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia. Voyager of the Seas will now offer a new three-night Weekend Sampler ‘cruise to nowhere’, departing Sydney on Friday 10 January 2014. She will then sail a new 11-night South Pacific cruise departing Sydney 13 January 2014 and calling in Fiji and New Caledonia. Rhapsody of the Seas will now offer an 11-night South Pacific sailing departing Sydney 11 February 2014. Rhapsody’s new sailing will call at the tropical ports of Noumea, Mare and Isle of Pines, New Caledonia; and Mystery Island, Luganville and Vila, Vanuatu.

Carnival Spirit a 2014 Melbourne Cup Starter

Carnival Cruise Lines has announced a brand new itinerary for Carnival Spirit in 2014. The race that stops the nation will soon stop the newest and largest ship to call Australia home, when Carnival Spirit sails to Melbourne for the Melbourne Cup. The round-trip itinerary will depart Sydney on Sunday 2 November 2014, arriving into Melbourne on Tuesday 4 November 2014. During their three-night stay onboard in Melbourne, guests will be able to see everything the fashion capital of the country has to offer, or can venture a little further afield for shore tours such as lunch and

wine tasting in the Mornington Peninsula, or swimming with dolphins at Sorrento; all before Carnival Spirit’s return to Sydney on November 9. Also up until 24 February 2013, Carnival Cruise Lines is offering guests who book a Carnival Spirit holiday up to $300 cash back per cabin* on a range of cruises sailing throughout 2013 and 2014.(Conditions apply)

Crystal Symphony – Robert Miller Costa neo Romantica – Robert Miller

Rhapsody of the Seas – Auckland Ports Carnival Spirit – John Treacy

Queen Mary 2

8

Moving Forward Princess Cruises has launched its 2014 winter program featuring the cruise line’s first week-long itineraries from Brisbane. Following the success of its summer sailings from Queensland, the cruise line has announced that it will make its first winter sailings from Brisbane in 2014, with the 77,000-ton Sea Princess offering new seven-night cruises to the Great Barrier Reef and Pacific Islands. The week-long itineraries will depart Brisbane every Sunday between 18 May and 15 June 2014 including two cruises to the Great Barrier Reef with calls at the Whitsundays, Cairns and Port Douglas and three cruises to New Caledonia and Vanuatu.The program also includes the first world cruise from Australia to visit South America, with a 104 night voyage on Dawn Princess making maiden calls to Peru, Ecuador and Easter Island. Departing Sydney on 18 May

2014, the world cruise will call at 40 destinations including maiden visits to Yangon in Myanmar, Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo, an overnight call to Lima, Ecuador with the chance to visit Machu Pichu and return calls to Rome, New York and ANZAC Cove. Other highlights of the 2014 winter program include: a 20 day Papua New Guinea cruise departing Sydney on 31 August 2014 on Dawn Princess features maiden calls to the ports of Alotau, Doini Island and Kiriwina Island plus visits to Pacific ports including Champagne Bay, Noumea and Vila and Sea Princess’ 15-night roundtrip Indonesian sailing from Fremantle on 3 August 2014 with the first calls to Sulawesi Island, and Indonesia’s second largest city, Surabaya, as well as a visit to Komodo Island, home to the Komodo dragon. Expanding Japan Cruise Program in 2014 - Underscoring its commitment to the growing Japanese cruise market Princess will bring a second ship to the market featuring sailings from three homeports and plans to significantly expand the size of the cruise market in Japan to approximately 100,000 passengers. The Japan-built Diamond Princess will join Sun Princess for a cruise program from three homeports – Tokyo (Yokohama), Kobe, and an industry first, Otaru near Sapporo on Hokkaido. Sailing between April and October in 2014, the two ships will offer 42 departures featuring nine unique itineraries ranging from seven to nine days. The two ships will visit more than 20 ports in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Russia. Diamond Princess will homeport in Tokyo (Yokohama) for an extended season of 9-day cruises that include visits to Taiwan, South Korea, Hokkaido, Russia and 15 Japanese ports, including five new itineraries created especially for the ship. During the popular holiday period of Golden Week, Diamond Princess will feature a special 10-day itinerary that includes opportunities to visit several festivals plus enjoy a special call to Nagasaki, home to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries where the ship was built, to celebrate Diamond Princess’10 year anniversary.

Sun Princess will debut several industry firsts for the Japanese market – including innovative 7-day cruises from the northern coastal town of Otaru, located outside of Sapporo, as well as two new 8-day itineraries from Kobe. These itineraries will offer cruise options to appeal to passengers looking for a week-long cruise vacation, and the northern Hokkaido itinerary will offer a refreshing summer destination. The ship will also make maiden calls in the Japanese islands of Ishigaki, and Amami Oshima, as well as Abashiri and Hualien, Taiwan. Princess Cruises has added several new exotic cruise options in early 2014 giving passengers additional holiday choices in the popular destinations of South America and the South Pacific. Options include a new South America grand adventure aboard Crown Princess – the first such voyage for the vessel, as well as new departures of the line’s signature Tahiti and French Polynesia cruises plus additional Hawaii and South Pacific voyages

onboard Pacific Princess. During Crown Princess’ South America debut, passengers can enjoy highlights such as an overnight call in vibrant Rio de Janeiro during the city’s famous Carnaval celebrations, sailing around legendary Cape Horn, an optional overland tour to the dramatic Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, and Princess’ first call to Ilhabela (“beautiful island”) – an island that lives up to its name with lovely beaches and natural beauty. The new 49 day voyage departs Fort Lauderdale on 15 February 2014 sailing first to Brazil, then around Cape Horn along the Chilean Fjords and up the Pacific coast to Los Angeles. Shorter segments of 16 to 33 days are also available. To add more of the line’s signature Tahiti and French Polynesia voyages, Pacific Princess will move to the South Pacific to offer three additional departures of this popular 10-day itinerary. The ship will also offer new departures of a 16-day New Zealand and South Pacific sailing from Sydney to Tahiti, departing February 25, 2014.Other new cruises include a 12-day Hawaii and Tahiti sailing from Tahiti to Honolulu, and a 10-day Hawaiian Islands crossing from Honolulu ending in Vancouver, British Columbia. Many voyages can be linked for a Grand Adventure of 22 to 26 days.

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Third Oasis-Class VesselRoyal Caribbean has announced that it has executed a contract with STX France to construct a third Oasis-class vessel for delivery in mid-2016. This order is consistent with the plan announced by the company in October to build a sister-ship to the very successful Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. “The Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas have fundamentally transformed the cruise experience for our guests,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “These ships have consistently generated outstanding guest satisfaction ratings and continue to produce superior financial results. We are thrilled to be adding a sister to this extraordinary class of vessels at a compelling price. Being back building in France just adds to the pleasure.” The contract is subject to satisfaction of financing and other conditions. STX France has also provided the company with a one-year option for the mid-year 2018 delivery of a fourth Oasis-class vessel at similar pricing. Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas are the largest and most revolutionary cruise ships in the world. Architectural marvels at sea, they span 16 decks, encompass 225,282 gross registered tons, carrying 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. The ships sail weekly from their home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Crown Princess

Dawn Princess

Sea Princess

Staff presented Captain Adriano Binacchi with a surprise birthday Cake onboard Carnival Spirit

10

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Happy Anniversary! Cunard Line’s Queen Victoria has celebrated a special milestone – her fifth anniversary. Since departing her homeport of Southampton on her maiden voyage on 11 December 2007 – a day after being named by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall – she has sailed over half a million nautical miles, called at 196 ports in 63 countries and carried almost 250,000 guests. In all, 20,300 bottles of champagne – enough to fill six Olympic-size swimming pools – have been drunk and 9,125,000 cups of tea and 1,460,000 scones have been served since 11 December 2007. To mark this special birthday, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall made a return visit (her third in five years) to her ship on December 13, 2012 in Southampton and spend time meeting crew before unveiling a specially-commissioned portrait of herself and cutting a special birthday cake. (See story below) Cunard’s President and Managing Director Peter Shanks said Cunard was very proud of Queen Victoria, her crew and her achievements since she entered service.

Special PortraitHer Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall came face-to-face with her own image in Southampton when she unveiled a specially-commissioned portrait of herself on board Queen Victoria – the Cunard liner that The Duchess named five years ago in December 2007. Her Royal Highness was making a special return visit to Queen Victoria to mark the fifth birthday celebrations. The portrait was painted by noted royal artist Richard Stone. Cunard’s President and Managing Director Peter Shanks said, “We are delighted that Her Royal Highness joined us for such a special day in the life of the ship and her crew. Queen Victoria is very much The Duchess’ ship and we are honoured that she continues to display such an interest in the ship and her crew”.

This new portrait of The Duchess is in keeping with the Cunard tradition of commissioning commemorative sculptures or portraits for display on board each ship named by a member of the Royal Family. The three-quarter length artwork shows The Duchess seated and dressed in a cream suit with ruffle detailing. It replaces a photograph of The Duchess which she signed just before naming Queen Victoria, and will be given a prominent place in the ship’s Grand Lobby. Renowned artist Richard Stone was commissioned by Cunard to paint the new portrait. He has been a portrait painter for 35 years and has painted most members of the Royal Family. The Duchess sat for Stone three times at Clarence House.

Only Weeks for Norwegian Breakaway’s Arrival

Norwegian Breakaway, also known as “New York’s Ship” for its New York inspired amenities and features, will arrive in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, on 26 April for the start of her European inaugural events and then on 29 April travels to the UK for a one-night preview. The ship will depart Southampton on 30 April and embark on her maiden voyage, a seven-day transatlantic crossing to New York City. The inaugural events will culminate with the ship’s spectacular christening in New York City – Norwegian Breakaway’s year-round homeport – on 8 May followed by a two-night exclusive inaugural cruise. One of New York’s most illustrious and beloved icons, The Rockettes, are set to serve as the ship’s Godmothers.

Marina Debuts in AustraliaOceania Cruises is set to reveal its luxurious ship Marina down-under in March. Marina is sailing her way to Australia with first port of call in Hobart on 9 March followed by Melbourne and Sydney. Carrying 1250 guests, onboard facilities include 10 dining venues (six of which are open-seating gourmet restaurants), an array of bars and lounges, a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub and fitness centre, swimming pool and hot tubs. The exclusive Bon Appétit Culinary Center, available on Marina and sister ship Riviera, features 24 fully equipped work stations with induction cook tops and convection ovens. Oceania Cruise’s culinary enrichment program Culinary Discovery Tours provides guests the opportunity to explore local food markets in small groups alongside an expert chef. A feature report on Marina will appear in our April edition - Editor

Partnership ExpandedRoyal Caribbean International and DreamWorks Animation are expanding their ground-breaking partnership, announcing that Mariner of the Seas will offer the DreamWorks Experience when she arrives in her new Asian home in May 2013. Mariner of the Seas will be the sixth ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet to offer this experience. The DreamWorks Experience

was introduced recently on Voyager of the Seas. “The DreamWorks Experience has been a huge hit with Australian guests of all ages on Voyager of the Seas, and we are delighted that this popular feature is being offered to guests on another innovative ship that will be based in our neighbouring region,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia. Every Royal Caribbean ship with the DreamWorks Experience features parades, themed activities and events based on DreamWorks Animation’s popular feature-film characters, including Po of “Kung Fu Panda;” Shrek, Fiona and Puss In Boots of “Shrek;” and Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, and the Penguins from “Madagascar”. Each ship also is equipped with a 3-D movie theatre playing the latest DreamWorks Animation films, such as the summer blockbuster “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted in 3-D”. Royal Caribbean’s younger guests in the complimentary award-winning Adventure Ocean children’s program can also enjoy an exhilarating line-up of activities, games and adventures rooted in the popular DreamWorks Animation films. Additionally, guests can enjoy DreamWorks Animation programming on a dedicated RCTV channel in every stateroom and can also meet their favourite DreamWorks characters over the DreamWorks Character breakfasts in the main dining room, and take advantage of plenty of photo opportunities throughout the day. Royal Caribbean recently released an online video about the DreamWorks Experience Character Breakfasts. The DreamWorks Experience was first launched aboard Allure of the Seas in November 2010, with beloved character Princess Fiona of the “Shrek” franchise inaugurating the ship as godmother, and continues to impress guests and receive accolades. As well as on Voyager of the Seas, the award-winning entertainment has since been expanded to Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas.

2014 CALENDAR2Silversea has unveiled its 2014 Voyage Calendar, encapsulating a dazzling 20th Anniversary Collection of more than 200 sailings aboard its fleet of ultra-luxury small ships. Karen Christensen, General Manager and Director Sales and Marketing Australasia for Silversea, commented: “2014 is a big year for Silversea, as it marks the company’s 20th anniversary. We are celebrating this milestone with a fascinating selection of voyages offering more choice than ever for our well-travelled guests, and this brochure provides an overview of this exciting voyage collection.” In 2014, more than 500 destinations will be on offer to suit the most discerning of clients. 12 new destinations will be included in the itineraries: Melilla and Almeria in Spain; Haugesund, Norway; Eskifjordur and Djupivogur in Iceland; Koror, Palau; Ponce, Puerto Rico; Trujillo, Honduras; Alotau, Papua New Guinea; Kavala, Greece, and the Canadian destinations of Sept-Iles and Trois-Rivières. Other highlights of the 2014 Voyage Calendar include Silversea’s 2014 World Cruise aboard Silver Whisper - an epic 113-day journey from Los Angeles to Barcelona departing January; a Silver Spirit Mediterranean voyage in May taking in both the Cannes Film Festival and the Monte Carlo Grand Prix; a series of Silver Shadow sailings in the South Pacific, and visits by Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Wind to Myanmar

Chefs’ Cooking School Series - Acclaimed culinary trainer David Bilsland, a former instructor at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary

school in London, is again set to host Silversea’s exclusive “Relais & Châteaux L’École des Chefs” interactive cooking school in 2013. On 14 ultra-luxury voyages across the globe, Chef Bilsland will present a program developed in collaboration with Jacques Thorel, a consulting Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux. Silversea enjoys the privilege of featuring the only “Relais & Châteaux L’École des Chefs” cooking school at sea. The innovative program -- which is offered completely free of charge -- provides guests with a special culinary curriculum, including hands-on instruction, and entertaining events.New Shorter Voyages - In its continuing mission to provide guests with more choices, Silversea Cruises has just announced a new collection of eight shorter cruises for 2013 of four- to seven-day voyages to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. These cruises are designed for time-strapped working professionals, travellers who like to combine a cruise with a land program, and individuals who may be new to luxury cruising.

Oosterdam Upgrade

Holland America’s Oosterdam recently spent time at the Garden Island Dry-Dock during which general maintenance and repairs were carried out which included replacing old carpets and some soft furnishings. Photo David Barnett

Newbuild Named The first block of the hull was laid on 10 December at Fincantieri’s Marghera, Italy, shipyard forming the central part of Costa Diadema, the future flagship of Costa Cruises. Diadema in Italian means “tiara” and the name was selected for the new ship that will serve as the crown jewel and flagship of the Costa Cruises fleet. During the ceremony, the block weighing approximately 496 tons, measuring 51.5 feet wide by 95 feet long, was lifted by a crane and laid in the dry dock where the ship will be built. Construction and fitting out will continue until 30 October 2014, the scheduled date of delivery. Construction of Costa Diadema will employ approximately 1,000 shipyard workers plus another 2,500 employees of allied industries. About 400 contracted suppliers, most of which are Italian firms, will be involved in the project, especially regarding fitting out the ship’s interiors. The Costa Diadema is 132,500 gross tons, 1,004 feet long, 122 feet in the beam, the ship will carry 4,947 guests and 1,253 crewmembers, with 1,854 guest cabins.

excursion boatassured

Enquire for further details. ACN 010 908 417.

*Conditions: Offer is subject to availability and is not combinable with any other discount. Valid for new bookings only from 01 October 2012 or until sold out. 15% savings (for first time travellers) and 25% savings (for Coral Princess past guests) are valid on 05, 12, 15, 22 and 26 April 2013 departures only. No single supplement is valid for genuine single travellers only on selected departures and this special is not combinable with the 15/25% discounts. Prices are per person, twin share and are cruise only. Enquire for further details. ACN 010 908 417.

OR Single travellers cruise at twin share price (no single supplement)!+

2013 KIMBERLEYEXPEDITION CRUISING

The Ultimate KimberleyExpedition Cruise

10 Nights Darwin to Broome v.v With Australia’s Coral Princess Cruises you’ll discover all of the icons of the Kimberley Coast over 10 unforgettable nights cruising between Darwin and Broome. In the north, discover the majestic King George River, with its towering 80 metre twin falls and the mysterious Bradshaw Paintings of Bigge Island. Explore the Mitchell Plateau and cruise the Kimberley’s iconic rivers, before exploring beautiful King Cascades, remarkable Montgomery Reef and the amazing natural phenomenon of the Horizontal Falls in the south.

Cruising aboard your choice of our purpose-built small ships Oceanic Discoverer or Coral Princess, you’ll discover all of the region’s icons, and with two landings most days you’ll enjoy the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Kimberley. Aboard our unique ‘Xplorer’ expedition vessel and our fleet of zodiacs, and with the expert local knowledge of our experienced guides you are assured of making the most of every minute of your expedition. Throughout your cruise you will discover the very best of the Kimberley and with Coral Princess Cruises you will do it all in unrivalled style and total comfort.

SAVE 15%*or No Single Supplement*

303030

14

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Royal Princess UpdateJoining the Princess fleet in June 2013, the new Royal Princess is sure to delight its 3,600 passengers with exciting new innovations and signature features which include a cantilevered walkway and bar on the top deck, an enlarged Sanctuary bar, an adult-only pool and the largest Movies Under The Stars screen Princess has built so far. The new youth and teen facilities onboard Royal Princess have just been revealed and they offer an extra level to the onboard experience for young passengers, with all age groups finding more space following the provision of dedicated outdoor areas, including a new teen lounge and a special fun area just for kids under three. The Princess Pelicans (ages 3-7) group will enjoy group activities like movie nights, a new mini air hockey table, a special area for arts and crafts programs and a new indoor play structure. In addition, they’ll have a new outdoor play area, which includes toys, games, tricycles and a new playground. Shockwaves (ages 8-12) will feature a dedicated outside area complete with lounge chairs and a variety of fun games, including air hockey, skeeball and exciting game stations. They will have their own lounge with a giant TV, a DJ Booth and arts and crafts tables with activities led by Princess’ youth counsellors. Also they can hang out and enjoy their own pizza and ice cream parties or kids-only dinners. The Remix (ages 13-17) area for teens will feature a Princess DJ booth where music lovers can

create their own playlist. In addition, there’s a new lounge area, featuring games like foosball, skeeball and the latest video games. A brand new outdoor lounge offers cool club lighting, contemporary seating, a great new wading pool, and music perfect for parties under the stars. Teens will also enjoy sports competitions, late night movies, hip hop dance classes, teens-only “mocktail” party, formal dinner and the always-popular video game tournaments.

Ship Named The official naming ceremony for Carnival Cruise Lines’ new Carnival Breeze took place Saturday, 8 December 2012 at Port Miami. Serving as the ship’s godmother was Tracy Wilson Mourning, founder of the Miami-based Honey Shine mentoring program, who initiated the breaking of the traditional bottle of champagne on the ship’s hull during the invitation-only event. Following its inaugural season in Europe, the 130,000-ton Carnival Breeze began sailing year-round six and eight day Caribbean cruises from Miami on 24 November 2012 becoming the largest Carnival Cruise Lines ship ever based in South Florida.Carnival Breeze features a variety of exciting innovations including the Thrill Theatre, an immersive multidimensional experience that makes viewers feel like part of the movie, as well as spectacular exciting top-deck attractions like the WaterWorks water park and SportSquare, an open-air recreation area with a suspended ropes course, a two-level miniature golf course, and more.

New Look and Refreshed Spaces for Azamara Journey

Azamara Journey, the second of Azamara Club Cruises’ twin boutique ships to undergo refurbishment recently emerged from an eight-day dry dock in Singapore’s Sembawang Shipyard. The vessel is now complete with a refresh of all public spaces and staterooms and an elegant new “Azamara Blue” exterior hull. Ship-wide renovations included new carpets, upholstery, and a new colour palette in public spaces reflecting the cruise line’s inviting atmosphere, new mattresses and upgraded veranda furniture for suites and staterooms and a resurfaced pool, with new sun loungers and pool towels on the outer decks. On the culinary front, guests can now enjoy a new caviar and champagne bar within Aqualina, one of the ships’ two specialty dining venues, as well as a new Chef’s Table concept featuring three wine degustation menus – Italian, French and Californian. At Mosaic Café, the ships’ central gathering spot, guests can purchase a freshly brewed cup of bespoke coffee.The Spa and fitness centre was refreshed with a new steam room, showers, and state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio equipment, while the Casino Bar was also expanded and enhanced with new furniture. Furthermore, a range of enhancements were made behind the scenes in the staff and crew areas to add to the comfort of the cruise line’s most valuable asset.

10th Anniversary On 6 January 2013 Oceania Cruises marked its 10th anniversary, kicking off a year of special events. Founded by cruise industry visionaries Frank Del Rio, Bob Binder and Joe Watters in 2003, the line’s mission was to deliver destination-rich itineraries, “best in class” cuisine, an inviting country club atmosphere, and luxurious accommodations all at an extraordinary value. With the addition of Marina in 2011 and Riviera in 2012 to the fleet of Regatta (2003), Insignia (2004) and Nautica (2005), Oceania Cruises has built an entirely new segment of the industry with its elegant, award-winning, mid-size ships and exceptional personalized service. “Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Oceania Cruises is an achievement made possible by the loyalty of our guests, employees, crew and travel partners,” said Frank Del Rio, the line’s founder, and chairman and CEO of parent company Prestige Cruise Holdings. “Because of their support, the next 10 years and beyond are filled with just as much promise and opportunity to continue to evolve the Oceania Cruises experience and the modern cruise vacation for our guests.” The company will celebrate fleet-wide with a special 10th Anniversary dessert called ZEN, a Manjari Chocolate Bar with Milky Gianduja-Yuzu and Hazelnut Croquant featured in the Grand Dining Room and a menu of Canyon Ranch SpaClub® 10th anniversary treatments available on all ships. Throughout the year, Oceania Cruises’ fans will find profiles of crew members who will also pass the 10-year mark with the company on the line’s Facebook page. Nearly 100 crew members are reaching this milestone.

West Coast ShortCruise Program

Carnival Cruise Lines will expand capacity on the West Coast with the introduction of year-round 3 and 4 day cruises on the 2,052-passenger Carnival Imagination from Long Beach, California beginning 26 January 2014. The move will bring the total number of Carnival ships operating from Long Beach to three. Carnival Imagination will offer 3 day cruises to Ensenada, Mexico, departing on Thursdays and 4 day voyages to Catalina Island and Ensenada departing on Sundays. The vessel’s sister ship, Carnival Inspiration, will continue to offer a similar program from Long Beach with 3 day cruises departing on Fridays and 4 day cruises on Mondays. Additionally, the 7 day Mexican Riviera and 15 day Hawaii programs from Long Beach previously operated by the Carnival Splendor will continue on the Carnival Miracle seasonally from October 2013 through April 2014. Together, these ships will carry approximately 550,000 guests annually from Long Beach. Prior to the start-up of its new West Coast schedule, Carnival Imagination will offer a 16 day Panama Canal cruise departing Miami 10 January 2014 with ports of call on this voyage to include Grand Cayman, Montego Bay, Cartagena, Punta Arenas, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas.

Lynne Clarke, Managing Director of MSC Cruises Australia took the chance to combine the celebration of New Year’s Eve with the beauty of the Red Sea a board MSC Armonia, below is a snapshot of her journey.

With so many wondrous sites to visit, the chance to capture a destination on my bucket list, The Red Sea over New Year’s Eve was magical, so my daughter Brianna and I fly to MSC Armonia for a 7 night cruise. Sharm el

Sheik is a great port to embark the cruise. Its landscape, whilst rugged and tormented holds a mesmerising beauty. Sharm itself consists of many resort hotels built along the shoreline of the Red Sea. We embarked on MSC Armonia prior to lunch, a good indication of what was to be an important part of our journey (food!).

SafagaLet me start by saying today is a long one however it was worth it! Absolutely! Seeing the Temple of Luxor for the first time was somewhat overwhelming. It was hard to digest the magnitude of the sites history and age. Our journey continued to the Nile River with lunch on board a traditional felucca. The River was a welcome relief and as we sailed past the bull rushes it was easy to visualise Moses suddenly appearing in his basket as a baby. Feeling stronger after our lunch and with the haven of the Nile, our next historic stop was the Valley of the Kings. We arrived late in the afternoon and this gave us time to imbibe our minds and soul in the burial place of kings. The fading rays of the sun created an ethereal ambience, the sand had a purple hue, there was not a breath of wind and for a moment we made our mark in the historic area and paid homage to the ancient pharaohs by visiting a number of their tombs. RelaxationToday we delighted in exploring the offerings on board. After breakfast in Deck 5 Marco Polo restaurant, we had a really good Italian coffee, then read our books by the pool. Absolute Heaven! It is important to note that although a bit cloudy, the sun was still strong; therefore, if you are visiting this area you should still apply sunscreen even during the ‘winter’ season’. The year-end festivities started early so we dressed in our formal garments around five. This was the 31st December, and food was definitely a focal point with the gala dinner being a true feast and it was wonderful that we did not have to drive for this excellent restaurant experience or worry about that extra glass of champers. There were so many after dinner events arranged to bring in the New Year, however, the Dead Sea had been on my bucket list since I was a little girl and it beckoned tomorrow.

IsraelNew Year’s Day! A very different start to 2013. A new destination, a new experience and a new memory to go into the ever growing memory bank. Israel. It was a very difficult decision first thing, Jerusalem as it is so close or travel to the Dead Sea and Masada, a tough choice. On arrival at Masada, I was in awe of the location, the time in history that it was built and the most amazing view. Masada, which means fortress in Hebrew is situated on an isolated rock cliff overlooking the Dead Sea. On the east side there is a sheer drop to the Dead Sea. Masada was built between 37 and 31 BC. It was a refuge for King Herod and certainly had all the bells and whistles for his palace, including traditional Roman bathhouses and terraced entertainment areas.

After a pleasant lunch, we made our way onto the beach of the Dead Sea. For some reason I had anticipated warm water, however it was not so. An experience to remember! You have to lower yourself in a sitting position, quickly lift up your legs and then float on your back. May I confirm that -float you do- and it is not a hoax as many people believe when they look at photos. It was amazing to be at the lowest place on earth, in fact, 400 metres below sea level.

Petra- JordanWe woke early, it rings true the saying “wake up to a different port each day” we certainly were! The distance from Eilat to Aqaba was only 2.2 nautical miles, which really reminded me of the Australian term ‘across the pond’. This was indeed a special day, as we were both so excited to be able to actually see and touch the most wondrous site in the world - Petra. The atmosphere once we arrived in Petra reminded me a little of Kathmandu, which I had visited about 15 years ago. The weather was slightly cooler and for the first time I had to put on my jumper. There is so much to see from the moment you enter the world’s richest and largest archaeological site. It was like being in a chocolate box! When we reached the iconic site of Petra, Brianna had tears in her eyes, and for the first time in my life I felt cold shivers running down my arm. All I can say is if you have not been – do take the opportunity and visit this wondrous place. I honestly would not do it justice in trying to describe the amazing wonder of the world.

SoknaA later start to the day –Pyramids and Sphinx here we come! I am sure many people similar to me have always wanted to see this great “places of eternity”. Our first stop was the step pyramid – Pyramid of Djoser, from there travelling through Cairo to get to Giza was an eye opener. I will never complain about Sydney traffic again. When we arrived at the pyramids of Giza the sun was on the cusp of setting. The sky was filled with soft hues of pinks, blues and oranges. It was the perfect backdrop to the phenomenal pyramids. Irrespective of how many times you see images of the pyramids, nothing can prepare you for their enormity, their grandeur and the impact they have on your senses.This is only a touch of the experience, however I hope you all enjoyed our thoughts on this stunning area of the cruising world. Visit www.msccruises.com.au for the full experience and I hope to see you on board soon.

The beauty of the Red Seaaboard MSC Armonia

16

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

The Countdown is on...On 23 March 2013, MSC Preziosa, the latest addition to the MSC Cruises’ fleet and the fourth and final addition to the celebrated Fantasia class ship, will be christened in Genoa. With only weeks to go MSC Cruises has announced an exciting new partnership with Eataly, the popular Turin-based chain founded in 2007 by Oscar Farinetti, which today counts several food and restaurant emporiums in Italy, Japan and the US, with plans to open new branches in Dubai, Turkey, Brazil and UK. The partnership with Eataly involves opening the first two Eataly restaurants at sea on board brand new flagship MSC Preziosa. In the area that hosts the Tex Mex speciality restaurant on her Fantasia class sister-ships, MSC Preziosa will instead feature two entirely unique dining venues: the Eataly Restaurant and the Ristorante Italia. With around 80 seats, the Eataly Restaurant will mirror Eataly’s original concept, creating a stylish, minimalist space where people can eat, buy and learn about the best Italian food. A choice of 18 dishes will be prepared and served at lunch and dinner, including pasta, vegetables, seafood, meat, cold cuts and cheese. The exclusive 24 seat evening-only Ristorante Italia will offer a different ultra-high-quality ‘table d’hôte’ menu every night, especially conceived by Eataly chefs, with dishes made from Slow Food Presidia products - a foundation created to protect small producers and to preserve the quality of artisan products.

Farewell to Melody MSC Cruises has confirmed that Melody, the smallest ship in the MSC Cruises’ fleet, is retiring from service and will no longer offer cruises on behalf of the Geneva-based company. The decision to withdraw one of its first and most traditional cruise ships reaffirms MSC’s focus on cutting-edge service and reflects the company’s continued desire to offer travellers the highest standards in product innovation and the maximum in comfort, elegance and technology across the entire fleet. Weighing 35,143 tons, measuring 204.7 metres in length and 27.35 metres in width, Melody has been part of the MSC Cruises’ fleet since 1995, when she was originally purchased as the Starship Atlantic. The ship was swiftly renamed Melody and sailed from Florida to Durban, where she received significant refurbishments and was transformed into the much loved and immensely popular Melody, with a capacity of just over 1,000 guests in 532 cabins. The ship left Durban for Genoa on her maiden voyage on 1 May 1997, and has sailed various itineraries all over the world ever since, most recently in the Mediterranean, Black Sea and South Africa, offering a relaxed and informal cruise-ship experience.

Additions to PrinsendamHolland America Line recently completed the addition of the line’s casual Italian restaurant Canaletto and transformed the Lido Terrace into an enclosed Wintergarden aboard ms Prinsendam. Named for the famous 18th-century Venetian artist, the award-winning Canaletto is located in the Wintergarden, which is adjacent to the Lido dining area. The restaurant serves classic Italian fare with tableside service for dinner only. With the addition of the eatery to Prinsendam, Canaletto is now on all 15 ships in the Holland America Line fleet. “We continue to invest in our fleet and the onboard experience to offer the best premium cruise experience,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Prinsendam has one of our most loyal followings, so the new

Wintergarden and popular Canaletto will certainly be appreciated by our guests.” In addition to Canaletto, the 835-guest Prinsendam’s aft Lido terrace was enclosed and remodelled into a covered Wintergarden. The new area increased the dining capacity of the Lido and provides the venue for Canaletto. The ship also received other cosmetic enhancements during its dry-dock in Freeport, Bahamas, including new balcony decking and balcony dividers.

‘Xplorers club’ and New Website Launched

Coral Princess Cruises has announced details of their new Xplorers club loyalty program to coincide with the launch of the company’s new website at www.coralprincess.com.au. After completing their first cruise with the company guests are automatically admitted to the Xplorers club as a Silver member, with the ability to receive even greater benefits after accruing additional nights onboard and qualifying as Gold or Platinum members. Members of the club receive generous discounts of between 5% and 10% off normal cruise prices, along with a range of onboard bonuses including a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine on boarding each cruise, free wireless internet access and discounts on bar purchases. Gold and Platinum members will also receive advance notification of new itineraries and an invitation to exclusive Xplorers club cruises, whilst Platinum members will receive a special travel compendium in recognition of their status as one of the company’s most frequent guests. In a first for the Australian cruise industry, a milestone reward of a free 7-night Great Barrier Reef cruise is available to all Xplorers club members after completing 50 cruising nights aboard the Coral Princess fleet. The launch of Xplorers club coincides with the release of the company’s new website www.coralprincess.com.au. Full details of the Xplorers club can be found at www.coralprincess.com.au/xplorersclub/.

18

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

QE2 to Floating Hotel

QE2 Dubai has announced that MS Queen Elizabeth 2 has been moved to Drydocks World Dubai for undertaking classification checks prior to her renovation as a luxury floating hotel. QE2 Dubai has created a large consortium to convert the QE2 into a five-star hotel with 500 rooms managed by a prestigious international hotel as an operator. The Oceanic Group, a group of deeply-experienced advisers to cruise operators and managers in Asia, will take the lead in managing this project while Drydocks World Dubai will carry out extensive technical and operational checks prior to her move into Asia. The vision for the QE2 is for her to become a landmark cultural and tourist attraction-a beacon of luxury, glamour, quality and tradition - in the heart of a leading Asian city that shares her rich maritime heritage and is prepared to give this very special ship the prominent waterfront home she so richly deserves. The consortium will lavish many millions of dollars on this magnificent ship to restore her to the splendour of her glory days as an icon of the very best the world has to offer. A number of Asian cities have expressed interest in securing this historic attraction. Plans for the upgrading of the QE2 also include a shopping mall with the finest world leading brands, a QE2 Café offering meals similar to those served during cruises, three Michelin-starred restaurants, convention and meeting facilities. There will also be an onboard maritime museum displaying QE2 memorabilia and her rich history, along with a collection of treasures of Dubai. Prior to the announcement Chris Frame, Maritime Historian and Author sent this report to Cruising News. Just days before Christmas, news broke in the British ‘Daily Mail’ newspaper, that ‘QE2 had been sold for scrap’, which resulted in an outcry of emotion from people all over the globe. With no official QE2 Dubai website or contact details, hundreds of concerned people flooded Cunard Line’s (QE2’s former owner) Facebook and YouTube pages, demanding that QE2 be saved. This resulted in Cunard Line making a much welcome formal statement advising that people should “ignore” the rumours about QE2’s imminent scrapping. To the best of Cunard’s knowledge, these rumours are untrue. Fortunately, out of the concern about QE2’s future, a positive story has been revealed. A consortium known as ‘QE2 London’ have made a £20m bid for QE2, with the plan to return her to the UK and dock her in London. Her proposed location will be opposite the O2 Arena. The ship is to be used as a hotel. It is reported that the QE2’s Dubai owners have rejected this offer, which fuelled the scrapping rumours, however the ‘QE2 London’ consortium are not giving QE2 up without a fight. Their plan includes a further £40m refurbishment and will create over 2,000 jobs in London, leading to support from Britain’s Chancellor of the Exchequer as well as (globally) well known London Mayor, Boris Johnson. Official images of ‘QE2 London’ have been released resulting in widespread support from the general public for this plan. It now appears we will see QE2 as a luxury floating hotel in an Asian city in the future.

‘Seabourn Conversations’ Seabourn has launched “Seabourn Conversations”, a new concept for onboard enrichment and special guest entertainment on its award-winning fleet which will include a stellar lineup of celebrities and guest experts. “Conversation has always been central to the Seabourn experience,” noted Seabourn President Richard Meadows. “Our guests are interesting people with interesting life stories, and they really enjoy chatting in the relaxed camaraderie made possible by our small ships. We recruit explorers, heralded chefs, authors and scholars, celebrated performers and renowned experts from every arena of the arts, sciences, politics and the humanities with particular talents or expertise.” On board they will lecture or perform, and take part in Q&A interviews, but on Seabourn they also enliven the social scene – and join the conversation.”

Reappointed Chairman

The International Cruise Council Australasia has announced the reappointment of Royal Caribbean Cruises Regional Vice President Asia Pacific Gavin Smith as its Chairman for 2013. Meanwhile Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry has joined the board, taking up one of the two existing Deputy Chairman positions, alongside long-serving board member Andrew Millmore, who represents Compagnie du Ponant. Ms Sherry replaces Carnival Australia Director of Sales Don Clark. APT CEO Chris Hall remains Treasurer while Viking River Cruises Managing Director Teresia Fors will continue as Secretary. Tony Smith from Francis Travel Marketing, representing Holland America Line in New Zealand, has been retained as the New Zealand representative on the Board.Announcing the 2013 Board following the Council’s AGM in Sydney, ICCA General Manager Brett Jardine said the appointments did not require a membership vote as all individuals had been nominated unopposed. ICCA 2013 Board: (l to r) Tony Smith, Andrew Millmore, Ann Sherry, Gavin Smith, Chris Hall, Brett Jardine (absent Teresia Fors)

“One Industry, One Voice”The International Cruise Council Australasia has announced it has joined with eight other cruise industry associations to form a common organisation which will serve as the voice and advocacy leader of the global cruise industry. Under the change, ICCA will become known as Cruise Lines International Association Australasia. Other associations in the new body are North America’s Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), European Cruise Council (ECC), Asia Cruise Association (ACA), the UK’s Passenger Shipping Association (PSA/ACE), France’s AFCC, Brazil’s ABREMAR, Northwest and Canada Cruise Association (NWCCA) and Alaska Cruise Association (ACA). All Association members will use the name Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) with the appropriate geographic designation, and the existing association offices will remain in place. The new association has been created to provide increased benefits and a globally unified voice for cruise lines, travel agents and business partners – all of whom contribute to an industry that creates nearly $100 billion in economic impact and more than 753,000 jobs worldwide. For cruise lines, the new association offers a one-stop global resource on technical and regulatory issues and unified global communication and event coordination, all of which better leverage cruise lines’ investment in association membership. For travel agents, the new association offers more robust partnership programs and networking on a broader scale, while for executive partners, it provides greater opportunities for customer and business partner development.CLIA will be governed by a Global Executive Committee, chaired by Howard Frank, Vice Chairman, Chief Operating Officer and Member of the Executive Committee of Carnival Corporation & plc. Christine Duffy, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association, will serve as the President and CEO of the new association, leading a team with responsibilities for international technical and regulatory issues, research, communications, industry relations and public affairs. “We are now truly one industry with one voice,” Mr Frank said. “Given the tremendous growth and continuing globalisation of the cruise industry, this evolution addresses the need to speak and act globally with a unified voice while recognising the importance of local relationships. The new association will play a vital role in proactively shaping the policy and regulatory environments on a global level and promoting cruising with various constituencies through more effective coordination, communication and stakeholder engagement.”

Ms Duffy said there were immediate and longer term benefits from the new association that were extensive and wide ranging. “It enables us to better leverage our members’ and partners’ investment in association membership while strengthening the industry’s leadership globally on issues such as safety, security, the environment, sustainability and health,” Ms Duffy said. “It also allows us to consolidate industry research and to leverage promotional events and marketing communication to facilitate greater consumer interest in cruising.”ICCA Chairman Gavin Smith said the new organisation would take effect immediately, with

transitioning, including the introduction of the name change, occurring during 2013 and that ICCA General Manager Brett Jardine would continue to report to the Australasian board as well as to the new global CEO, Christine Duffy.

20

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Cruise Industry Honour Top

AchieversThe Australasian cruise industry’s best performers have been recognised for their achievements at the 2012 Cruise Industry Awards held in Sydney. Hosted by television personality Deborah Hutton, the awards night was held at the Hilton Sydney and attended by 400 guests.

Awards were presented across seven categories to the industry’s top cruise consultants and agencies at the annual awards night, held by the International Cruise Council Australasia (soon to be known as

CLIA Australasia). Cruise Council Chairman Gavin Smith said the awards were a great way to recognise and applaud the important role that travel agents play in the ongoing growth and success of the local cruise market. “The local cruise industry continues to go

from strength to strength and there is no question that the hard work of travel agents in Australia and New Zealand plays a large part in that growth,” Mr Smith said.

The big winners on the night were Phil Hoffmann Travel, Glenelg, (SA), which won gold in the Australian Cruise Agency of the Year category for the second time, while Cruiseabout: Parnell won the Gold Agency Award of the Year NZ. Receiving the gold award, Phil Hoffmann thanked his team, saying they worked “unbelievable hours” to promote cruising for the agency. “To the ICCA and all the suppliers, a big thank you for what you do for this industry and for the training of our staff – that’s what makes it so great to be part of it,” Mr Hoffmann said.

Meanwhile Cruiseabout Turramurra’s agent Robert Watson took home the coveted Australian Cruise Consultant of the Year award. The 2012 winner of the Neil Frazer Award for an Outstanding Contribution by an Individual was APT director Geoff McGeary, who paid tribute to his supporters over the past 50 years, as well as his executives and their teams, saying they could be “very well proud” of what they had achieved. “I guess I’m a bit chuffed myself. These trips, cruises and tours that we’ve done, have been a wonderful experience in my life – they’ve opened the world to me and it just doesn’t stop.”

Speaking at the awards, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Christine Duffy, congratulated travel agents for the role they have played in the growth of the local cruise industry. “We’ve seen a decade of strong and rising growth here putting the Australasian region at the forefront of one of the most significant changes in our industry’s history, namely the transformation of the cruise industry from a collection of regional associations into a truly powerful global industry,” she said.

Major Winners:Gold Agency of the Year Australia - Phil Hoffmann Travel : Glenelg SA, Gold Agency of the Year NZ - Cruiseabout: Parnell, Consultant of the Year Australia - Robert Watson, Cruiseabout, Turramurra, Consultant of the Year NZ - Sarah Goldfinch: Cruise Republic Auckland, Rising Star Award Australia - Emma Blacklow: RACT Travelworld Collins St, Hobart Tasmania, Rising Star Award NZ - Andrew Lennox: Cruiseabout, Wellington, Media Award - Brian Crisp “Simple changes lift Aussie Spirit” – Carnival Cruise Lines, News Limited Escape section, Agency promotion of the Year - Australia - Travelrite International, Balwyn Vic - “Film Festival at Sea,” Agency promotion of the Year - NZ - iCruise - “September iCruise Month,” Network Promotion of the Year - Australasia - Mondo Travel (NZ) - “Let’s talk cruising with Jackie”and Neil Frazer Award - Geoff McGeary

ICCA G/M Brett Jardine with CLIA President & CEO Christine Duffy

2012 Cruise Industry Award Winners –Left to Right:Back row: Phil Hoffmann of Phil Hoffmann Travel; Kevin Sharp from Our Vacation Centre, Gaven Qld; Jeanette Wall from Cruiseabout Turramurra; Jennifer Vanderkreeke for Media Award winner Brian Crisp of News Ltd; ICCA General Manager Brett Jardine; MC Deborah Hutton; Geoff McGeary from APT; Steve Parker from iCruise, NZ; Angela Bartlam from Mondo Travel, NZ; Debbie Christian from Cruiseabout Parnell; Sarah Goldfinch, Kirsty Jensen and Ryan Posa from Cruise Republic, Auckland. Front row: Mark Smith from Lets Cruise Auckland; Gordon Bayne from Mondo Travel, NZ; Robert Watson from Cruiseabout Turramurra; Andrew Lennox from Cruiseabout Wellington; Nigel Walliss, Simon Walliss and Shawn Walliss from Travelrite International, Balwyn. Absent: Emma Blacklow from RACT Travelworld Collins Street – Hobart

Rising Star Award Australia winner Emma Blacklow with Debra Hutton & Lynne Clarke (MSC Cruises)

All NZ Award Winners

Geoff McGeary & Phil Hoffmann

Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry with Robert Watson Consultant of the Year Australia

Geoff McGeary with Debra Hutton & Karen Christensen (Silversea)

Gold Agency of the Year NZ winner Debbie Christian from Cruiseabout Parnell

22

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Orion Rescues Solo Sailor The expedition cruise ship MVOrion arrived in Hobart, Australia, at 0900, Tuesday 22 January, having diverted from its planned course (heading to Macquarie Island to conclude its expedition to Antarctica) in order to attempt to rescue French solo yacht sailor Alain Delord whose yacht’s mast had broken into three pieces and the hull subsequently damaged in heavy seas. Responding to an emergency request from AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority), Orion, being the closest ship to the search zone, yet 687 nautical miles away, diverted course for a two day rush to save Alain Delord, who by that time had abandoned his yacht and was in a life raft.A Royal Australian Air Force search aircraft was deployed to locate the sailor adrift in the Southern Ocean encountering 7 meter swells and winds gusting to 40 knots. Following a sighting by the aircraft a raft containing communications equipment, supplies and a survival suit, was dropped and communication commenced on an hourly basis through a French interpreter. The sea conditions hampered Orion’s speed during the 54 hour race to reach Alain, arriving in the search zone at 8.30pm Sunday 20 January, as light was starting to fade. Guided by an RAAF Hercules dropping flares to guide the way, the crew of Orion located the life raft 380 nautical miles south-west of Hobart and Captain Mike Taylor put the rescue plan into action, positioning the 104 metre Orion to windward of the raft creating a relatively calm patch for a Zodiac to be deployed. Encouraged by the 91 cheering guests onboard Orion, the rescue team, headed by Expedition Leader Don McIntyre, himself a former solo round the world yachtsman, quickly secured the life raft, extracted Alain Delord and transferred him to the security of the ship in a matter of minutes.

In the medical centre the ship’s doctor Chris Bulstrode, a specialist in trauma medicine, examined Alain declaring he was in remarkably good condition for someone who had been through such a harrowing experience. A suite was prepared and following a dinner of lamb shanks, a glass of wine and a cup of tea, Alain went to bed. With the relevant maritime authorities informed, Orion set course for Hobart. Because of an earlier

than scheduled arrival in Hobart, the Orion team worked quickly with local authorities and suppliers to arrange guest visits to Port Arthur, Maria Island and South Bruny Island, while Alain received new documentation from France to allow for his entry into Australia. Orion’s Facebook page achieved record visits as past passengers, the world’s media and general public followed the unfolding of the rescue. On the BBC’s website the rescue footage trended as the second most watched video. Positive comments have been flooding in to Orion Expedition Cruises full of praise for the way the rescue was conducted seamlessly in conjunction with AMSA.

Broadening the Dream SeaDream is breaking away from its traditional concentration on the Mediterranean and Caribbean, and while maintaining popular sailings in these regions with SeaDream I and SeaDream II, has

created new itineraries embracing Asia and Northern Australia, Costa Rica, London and Dover, Northern Europe including to the Baltic and the Norwegian Fjords, and with a sailing in the Black Sea taking-in Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, the Ukraine and Russia.Drawing huge enquiries is a 14-day sailing from Dover on 16 August 2014 that will transit Germany’s Kiel Canal, and visit Bornholm in Denmark, Gotland (Sweden,) have a whole 3-days in Russia’s St Petersburg, then on to Tallinn in Estonia, Rugen Island (Germany,) Fyn Island (Denmark) and back to Dover. A new 80-page brochure has just been released.

CEO AppointedSeaDream Yacht Club recently announced the appointment of Pamela Conover as its Chief Executive Officer. Conover, an internationally acclaimed luxury cruise line executive was President and CEO of Seabourn Cruise Line during the introduction of the Odyssey class ships and President of Cunard Line during the introduction of Queen Mary 2. “I am very excited to take on the CEO role at SeaDream Yacht Club which delivers award winning experiences

aboard its two mega-yachts SeaDream I and II”, said Conover. Atle Brynestad, Chairman and owner of SeaDream Yacht Club said “I welcome Pam to take my role as the CEO of SeaDream, so I can spend more time towards the long term planning for SeaDream and also more time to my other businesses. I am delighted to have an executive of Pam’s talent and expertise to lead the SeaDream management team. We have worked together over the years and have a great track record of success together.”

The Tere Moana Christened Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the m/s Paul Gauguin, christened its new luxurious ship, the m/v Tere Moana, in an official ceremony held dockside on 29 December 2012 in Marigot, St. Martin. Mireille Bailey, The Moana’s godmother and wife of Richard Bailey, Chairman of Paul Gauguin Cruises and President and CEO of Pacific Beachcomber S.C., presided over the festivities, delivering a moving speech before christening the ship with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot La Grande

Dame Champagne. Mr. Bailey along with Diane Moore, President of Paul Gauguin Cruises, and Captain Rajko Zupan, the ship’s Master, spoke during the ceremony, which included plaque presentations by St. Martin’s Vice President of the Collectivite, Port Chairman, Port Director, and Tourist Board. St. Martin’s Father Samson Dorival delivered the ship’s blessing, and ceremony attendees were serenaded by the festive music of a Caribbean steel drum band. After the celebrations the ship set sail on its inaugural 7 night Caribbean voyage to visit islands in the French West Indies, British Virgin Islands, and St. Kitts & Nevis.

24

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

On BoardOrion

Fred Olsen’s B r a e m a r ’ s Historic Cruise to the Midnight Sun of 16 nights departs from Dover on 22 June 2013 and

her first port of call is the pretty Norwegian town of Stavanger. A former European Capital of Culture, its old town, with winding, cobbled streets and ancient wooden houses, is very picturesque and one of the more unusual visitor attractions is the Oil Museum. The northerly town of Bodø is famous as the home of many Sea Eagles, and it is a truly stirring sight to see these majestic birds circle over the town. Travelling

even farther north, Braemar next calls at Tromsø, well inside the Arctic Circle and surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Visitors here can enjoy panoramic views by taking a cable car ride from the edge of town and as well you can get a beer at Mack’s, the world’s most northerly brewery! The next port, Honningsvǻg, is the northernmost extremity of the cruise and, from here; guests can visit the North Cape, the ‘top of Europe’. In June the sun never sets on this ‘winter wonderland’ often called the ‘Land of the Midnight Sun.’ The next leg of this fascinating cruise takes Braemar into Russia with a visit to Archangel on the White Sea. The Lutheran Kirk of St. Catherine, built in 1768, is a landmark well worth visiting, and there are museums and galleries to satisfy the cultural

visitor; the more adventurous can try kayaking on the local waterways. The second Russian port on this itinerary is Murmansk, home to a shipping company that specialises in ice-breakers. There is a museum that includes soil taken from directly under the North Pole. This unusual and truly inspiring cruise has one final port of call on its journey south, Norway’s second city, Bergen. This bustling fishing port and cosmopolitan town with its broad boulevards and pretty town squares and busy fish-market is a favourite with visitors, as is the picturesque old town ‘Bryggen Wharf’ with its colourfully painted wooden houses, reflecting its Hanseatic heritage. The cruise then returns to Dover.

Historic Cruise to the Midnight Sun

Recently when Orion visited Brisbane I had an opportunity to inspect the vessel.My memories were rekindled as I found

this ship in excellent condition with great facilities and friendly crew. JT

26

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

“The Land of the Midnight Sun” is highlighted in this poster issued by Orient Line to advertise their 1927 season of cruises to Norway.

In 1910 P & O founded the Branch Line, which operated a fleet of One Class ships designed for the Emigrant service to Australia via the Cape of Good Hope. A service advertised in this very art deco style 1924 brochure cover

From the archive comes this photograph of the ARCADIA arriving in Australia on her maiden voyage in 1954. The ARCADIA became a great favourite with Australians on the regular route to and from England as well as on Cruises from Australia.

The Rob Henderson & Doug Cremer CollectionThe Rob Henderson & Doug Cremer Collection

From part of the P & O Group of companies comes this very artistic 1925 timetable cover for the Canadian-Australasian Line which operated a regular service of Royal Mail steamers between Australia-New Zealand and Canada (Vancouver)

28

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Since returning home from our wonderful vacation on the fabulous yacht SeaDream II I have had time to reflect on the 14 days spent on board. I certainly miss the exceptional service extended from the staff. Without going overboard they knew how to be super attentive and their enthusiasm showed. They quicky anticipated your needs in food and drinks. I returned home very refreshed and relaxed.The captain had an open bridge policy and was happy to explain the workings of the ship and talk about his experiences at sea.For the sports minded guests the availability of water sports from the retractable marina at the stern was a big plus. In the calm waters sailed Jet Skis, banana boat rides, water skiing and zodiac rides were most popular. At other times there were the mountain bikes available to explore the various ports.Some guests took the opportunity to sleep on deck at night on the Balinese Beds as the vessel gently followed the Mediterranean coastline to our next port of call.Relaxation at its best in luxury surroundings being pampered by professional staff certainly made my time on SeaDream II as close to perfect as one can describe. JT

And now news of the SeaDream experience coming soon to Asia and Australia.

SEADREAM Yacht Club has begun selling sailings aboard SeaDream II in Asia in 2013/2014 including into and out of Cairns. This gives Australians the first opportunity ever to join the mega motor-cruiser without the need to travel half-way around the world to either the Mediterranean or Caribbean to do so. SeaDream II will sail 15 days from Athens to Mumbai on 12 October this year, and on arrival there will be eighteen voyages over five months to some of the largest and most popular ports in South East Asia, and conversely many smaller ones larger cruise ships cannot access, in India, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar (Burma,) Malaysia, Sri Lanka, the Andaman Islands, Cambodia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, China and Indonesia. And on 18 January 2014 she’ll sail 14 days from Bali to Cairns by way of four ports in Indonesia, plus East Timor, Darwin, Seven Spirit Bay, Cape York, Lizard and Low Islands, and Port Douglas. She’ll sail back to Bali from Cairns on February 1 2014, visiting New Guinea’s Milne Bay, the Trobriand and Tami Islands, the Sepik River, Jayapura in Indonesian Papua, Sulawesi, and the Komodo and Satonda Islands.Full itineraries and 80-page brochure of Asia and other SeaDream sailings are available from travel agents or check www.seadream.com.

Crew’s Seadreamin’ Christmas Dinner During the recent interview with SeaDream Chairman Atle Brynestad he told me of the SeaDream tradition of executive staff and himself visiting the ships on Christmas Day. Well Christmas Day 2012 was no exception. Crew aboard SeaDream II had a Christmas Day they’ll long remember at the island of St John in the Caribbean – company President, Bob Lepisto together with senior officers, other company m a n a g e m e n t and Mr Lepisto’s wife and three daughters served all crew a full-blown traditional Christmas dinner of turkey, pork and prime rib with all the trimmings

The Dreaming Continues.....

29

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

in the ship’s plush dining salon two hours before guests sat down to their dinner. And all crew also received a gift and personal Christmas card from the company owner, Atle Brynestad, exactly the same gift and card as guests had found awaiting them in their staterooms on Christmas Eve. Other SeaDream management and senior officers also served up a similar Christmas Dinner to crew of sister vessel, SeaDream I that was also in the Caribbean on Christmas Day and again crew also received the same gift and card from Mr Brynestad as he’d sent to SeaDream I’s guests in their staterooms on Christmas Eve.(Photo shows Bob Lepisto carving the turkey for crew Christmas Dinner on SeaDream II, with daughters Heather and Brooke manning the vegetable station.) Places Visited

After a late departure from Civitavecchia it was an overnight run to our first port of call Bonifacio on the island of Corsica, France. We were able to dock and it was a 20 minute stroll past perfectly preserved Renaissance homes and churches with many cafes and shops along the waterfront to reach the marina known as Basse Ville. The town is famous for cork and Corsican wine. Sheer cliffs shelter its cafes, restaurants and shops. A mini tram ride winds its way through narrow alleyways as it takes you up to the oldest parts of Bonifacio to provide an overview of this charming town. You’ll pass by the Bosco quarter with the St Francis convent and fascinating cemetery dedicated to mariners with large mausoleums displaying many different architectural styles. On the return journey you will pass by the church of St Dominique built in 1270.

Another late night departure took SeaDream II to Portoferraio, Elba, Italy. An overcast morning turned to rain as we took a tour to the mountainside village of Capoliveri passing the iron mines at Mount Calamita and Mount Ginevero. The coastline provided extensive views showing overhanging cliffs, small bays and crystal-clear water before reaching Capoliveri. Despite the heavy rain there was time to walk through the twisty old streets to spend time browsing the tiny shops and boutiques. Then we visited the 17th century old country wine-farm “La Chiusa”, beautifully nestled in a vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the ocean with views to Portoferraio and our vessel SeaDream II. There was time for wine sampling of the vineyard’s “passiti” made from Aleatico and Ansonica. Overnight we followed the Italian coastline to Livorno where we joined chef Tomasz Kozlowski for a shopping tour of the markets. After lunch we enjoyed a long walk around the town. Livorno is the drop off point for Florence which is a one and a half hour drive.Next morning we were anchored off Portovenere (Cinque Terre) Italy. A short tender ride took us to Portovenere, a picturesque ancient 12th century town where tall and pastel coloured houses front the shoreline. A short uphill walk takes you to the Church of St Peter high on a hilltop overlooking the sea and further uphill to a castle and the cemetery before following the alleyways down to the shoreline which is dotted with shops and cafes. Because of the weather we were unable to take a boat ride to what is described as one of the worlds most beautiful and famous stretches of

Civitavecchia

Bonifacio

Portoferraio

30

coastline known as Cinque Terre. The 18 kms of rocky and sheer coastline is home to five castles, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore with steep centuries old paths that link them across terraced hills and vineyards clinging precipitously to the slopes.We have heard about Portofino for some time and always wanted to visit. After a short tender ride we were not disappointed. Portofino has a modern reputation as a ‘retreat for the elite’ and a magnet for wealthy Genoans as a seaside escape. Portofino focuses on the small town

marina and Piazetta (main square). The houses are brightly coloured. It has an atmosphere that is peaceful and enticing. In the December issue of the magazine we covered an overview of Monte Carlo which was our next port of call. However the April issue of Cruising News will cover our visit to the Royal

Palace for the changing of the guard, the beautiful Rose Garden dedicated to Princess Grace and the Cathedral where Prince Rainier III married American film star Grace Kelly.Our final stop for disembarking of guests and for new guests to join was Nice. After a walk along the waterfront near the marina with its many restaurants and busy shopping streets we caught the hop-on hop-off Red Bus for a comprehensive tour of the fifth most populous city in France and the second-largest French city on the Mediterranean coast. The city is called “Nice la Belle” which means Nice the Beautiful. A highlight was driving along the city’s main seaside promenade, the Promenade des Anglais (‘the Walkway of the English’). There was a yacht competition in progress and the promenade was packed. Nice is the second-most visited place in France after Paris, receiving 4 million tourists every year. It is a place we would like to revisit for a holiday. JT/KT

Next Issue - Another 7 days along the Mediterranean coastline visiting San Remo, St Tropez, Sete, Port Vendres (Collioure) and Roses before returning to Barcelona.

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Livorno

Portofino

Portofino Nice

Portovenere

Palace Monte Carlo

31

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice reached her new Australian home port, docking at Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal at 6.30am on Sunday 9 December 2012. Launched in November 2008, she is the youngest and most modern superliner to make Australia her home. At 122,000 tons and 315 metres long and ability to carry 2,850 guests, Celebrity Solstice is the second largest cruise ship ever based in Australia; second only to sister brand Royal Caribbean International’s Voyager of the Seas, which also debuted in Sydney late last year. Her arrival brings a new level of sophistication to the Australian cruising scene. She offers an elegant and contemporary style of cruise holiday, with unique features like the Lawn Club, half an acre of real lawn where guests can enjoy the luxury of feeling real grass under their feet in the middle of the ocean, have a picnic or

play petanque and bowls; spa-resort inspired AquaClass accommodation; a glass-blowing studio; a great array of restaurants and bars and she is also fitted with 216 solar panels that supply enough energy to power all of the ship’s guest elevators, or more than 7,000 LED lights..We cruised two nights from Brisbane to Sydney and the one night cruise to nowhere from Sydney. We enjoyed our time on board. Celebrity Solstice introduces a ‘modern luxury’ style of cruising: excellent contemporary, amenities and accommodation. She was the first cruise ship to have its staterooms designed by a team of women. While at first reading this may not seem remarkable, once on board these touches are very noticeable. Storage spaces are plentiful and well-designed in both bathrooms and bedrooms.

New Era in Australian Cruisingwith the Arrival of Celebrity Solstice

32

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Overview – Guests on board Celebrity Solstice have ten dining choices including the luxurious main dining room, the Grand Epernay Dining Room, which dazzles with its two-story glass wine tower and magnificent chandeliers. Other specialty dining options include The Tuscan Grille, Murano Restaurant and the Silk Harvest Restaurant. These specialty restaurants are superb. Operating as individual restaurants with their own team of chefs and kitchens, they specialise in a variety of cuisine. Murano is a classic upmarket dining experience offering the finest classic French dishes like duck confit, rack of lamb, lobster and even two types of caviar. The dinner at Murano’s reintroduced us to cooking by our table. Tuscan Grille offers a sensational Italian dining experience with exceptional pastas and risotto, hearty grilled meat like Tuscan rib eye steak, antipasti and much more. Silk Harvest offers a broad range of Asian cuisine encompassing delicious Chinese,

Vietnamese, Japanese and Thai dishes. There is a surcharge for Tuscan, Silk and MuranoFor a more casual dining experience guests can visit the Bistro on Five Creperie, Oceanview Café & Grill, AquaSpa Café or Café al Bacio. AquaClass guests have access to an exclusive dining room, Blu, an intimate, 130-seat specialty restaurant with menus developed by Celebrity Cruises’ culinary consultant, Blau & Associates, the team behind restaurants such as Las Vegas’ Bellagio and Miami’s Setai. Many guests enjoyed breakfast and lunch in the Buffet which had so many food stations with a wide variety of food and the sea views whilst you ate.There are plenty of stylish bars and lounges including The Passport Bar or the Observation Lounge with its floor to ceiling windows for spectacular views, as well as the Ensemble Lounge, Martini Bar, Champagne Bar, Michael’s Club and the Sunset Bar which is located at the ship’s highest point and has a country club

33

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

feel to it. There is also Cellarmasters, which brings to life the experience of a global wine tour as guests taste and learn about a large variety of wines from around the world.For entertainment in addition to the Solstice Theatre, there is also Celebrity Central where guests can enjoy lively entertainment, including late night comedy shows and live musical performances, and a cinema, casino and art gallery.Eighty-five per cent of the staterooms on Celebrity Solstice have balconies and 90 per cent have ocean views, all with Egyptian cotton bed linen, a sitting area with sofa, LCD screens and wireless internet access. Features include an innovative adjoining stateroom design with a double set of doors, allowing guests to open up the space for families or friends travelling together and verandas of adjoining staterooms can also be opened to create a veranda that spans both rooms. Modular furniture design and “smarter” storage design, means guests can enjoy a more spacious, clutter-free environment. The spacious suites on Celebrity Solstice come with their own European-style butler service, verandas, impressive entertainment systems and master bedrooms. Penthouse and royal suites also feature separate lounge areas, and the penthouse suites each have their own baby grand piano. A new style of stateroom, the AquaClass suites, sharing the same deck as the AquaSpa by Elemis is available. This accommodation option incorporates select spa elements into the staterooms including special access to spa amenities, such as the AquaSpa Relaxation Room and the Persian Garden, an exotic aromatherapy steam room. The ship offers a number of fun programs geared towards young people for which there is no extra cost. Celebrity Cruises’ youth and teen program has activities tailored to interest groups with activities including treasure hunts, arts and crafts, relay races, ice cream sundae-

making and karaoke organised by trained counsellors. A fun room for kids aged from three to 12 is available called the Fun Factory as well as an X Club teen lounge, video game room and broadcast room that the whole family can enjoy. A special feature is a lap pool in the solarium surrounded by waterfalls as well as the two larger outdoor pools and four whirlpools. The spacious fitness centre onboard has state of the art aerobic and weight-training equipment. Passengers can enjoy the AquaSpa by Elemis which offers an array of relaxing treatments. Celebrity Solstice’s Point of Well Being Acupuncture Program lets guests treat themselves to a spiritual and harmonious treatment. And of course there is a number of shops where much time can be spent. It is no secret that cruise ships have changed enormously over the years, but the arrival of Celebrity Solstice to Australia brings a new standard and style of cruising down under.

According to Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Celebrity Cruises Australia, Celebrity Solstice has ‘raised the bar’ for cruising Down Under. “Celebrity Cruises consistently scores high marks in the industry. It’s a major milestone to introduce a ship of this size and calibre to our market, which you could only previously experience in European or Caribbean waters. Our pampering but relaxed ‘modern luxury’ style of cruising is particularly well-suited to Australian cruisers who appreciate the finer things in life”. Armstrong added: “The good news for those who miss out this season is that Celebrity Solstice is confirmed to return in summer 2013-14, but again we would encourage people to book now and secure their space on the highest-rated cruise ship in Australia.”

34

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

In the December 2012 issue of this magazine we reported on our adventure on MSC Splendida travelling MSC Yacht Club style. On that cruise we spent most of our time in the Yacht Club, but did find a little time to see the rest of the ship. MSC Splendida was launched in 2009 and is stunning in her design and layout. Public rooms flow from one deck to another and the Atrium spans decks 5 to 9. On the various levels are the reception counter and shore excursion desk, the large Splendida Bar which always seemed busy, a number of well-stocked shops (Perfume, Duty Free, Boutique, Electrical, Jewellery, Logo and General merchandise), L’Espresso Coffee Shop, L’Enoteca for wines and tapas and the Santa Fe Tex-Mex Restaurant which has an open kitchen.In the bow of MSC Splendida on Deck 6 is the main section of the grand 1,600 seat Strand Theatre. The entertainment featured in the theatre was excellent! It also spreads over to Decks 5 and 7. As you move sternward on Deck 6 there is the large Royal Palm Casino, a cigar lounge, a poker room, several shops, and the inviting and beautiful La Piazetta, a rotunda-style cafe serving pastries, sweets, and gelato. You must sample the delights of La Piazzetta. With its bar, ice-cream parlour, pastry and chocolate shop, a world reminiscent of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory awaits guests. Dishes include crème bavaroise with almonds and berries, chocolate semifreddo, vanilla and rose macaron cream, cannoli, baba and meringues.On deck 7 is the stylish La Prua piano bar with its ocean liner imagery, the colorful and modern Purple Jazz Bar, the large Sports Bar with big-screen TVs and a two-lane bowling alley, and, in the stern, the Aft Lounge, a fabulous space for music and dancing and special events. The two main restaurants are also found on decks 6 and 7: the two-level La Reggia

serving Italian cuisine and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the Villa Verde, which offers views from three sides (including the stern) and focuses daily on dishes from a different region of Italy.Higher up on Deck 14, the bow area features the large Aurea Spa and Fitness Centre, which includes a tiled Turkish bath, pre or post treatment relaxation room, a spa bar, a yoga studio, a gym, a hair salon, and more than a dozen rooms for massages, mud packs, and other treatments. The ship’s midsection has several pools: the L’Equatore, which offers a glass roof for inclement weather as well as several whirlpools and a bar, and the open-air Aqua Park, a multi-level grouping of pools, wading pools,

MSC Splendida

Stunning indesign and

layout

35

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Places Visited

Our cruise started and finished in Barcelona which gave us a little time pre and post cruise to once again enjoy this great city. Modern Barcelona could be described as a vibrant, relaxed and hospitable place with many tourist attractions. It is Spain’s second largest city and the capital of the Catalonia region. The most distinctive landmark is the Cathedral de la Sagrada Familia, the work of Antonio Gaudi. The city features distinctive Avant Garde architecture. A gathering place for locals and visitors and a place to stroll is along Las Ramblas, one of Europe’s most famous promenades. For a bird’s eye view of Barcelona journey up to Montjuic Hill. The hop-on, hop-off buses provide a great way to experience an

overview of the city and its suburbs. We stayed at the Novotel Barcelona City and found the hotel handy to shops and transport. La Goulette – The port area for Tunis where African and Arabic hospitality awaits. A report and photo gallery is on Page 41.Our next port of call was La Valletta, Malta officially recognised as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1980. This time we took the Red Bus for a fast and wild ride through the suburban areas to the ancient walled town

of Mdina, the one- time capital of Malta. Its main landmark is the Baroque style St. Pauls Cathedral. On returning to the main city area we visited the Upper Barrakka Gardens, a beautiful park that was created in 1775 for a panoramic view over the Harbour. We spent the next hours walking around the area looking at the many shops and deciding where to eat

whirlpools, and 150 illuminated musical fountains.The remainder of Deck 14 has two interconnected casual self service buffet style restaurants Bora Bora and Pago Pago which are now open 20 hours a day from 6.00am to 2.00am. On deck you’ll find the Playa del Sol Zen Area featuring Splendida’s third major pool area with a traditional stern pool with two whirlpools and a limited amount of seating and is reserved for adults only. Moving forward is a jogging track, a pair of whirlpools, and the ship’s children’s facilities with the Il Graffiti teen hangout room and separate outdoor areas for kids and teens.One more deck up, you’ll find the ship’s disco, a sports court, a video game room, and two special attractions: a Formula One racing simulator and a 4D cinema.By day the pool areas and self service restaurants were always busy, especially mid afternoon as passengers returned from shore visits, as were the various lounges, bars and theatre by night.MSC Splendida is a big ship at 137,936 tons and can carry up to 3,900 passengers.It offers excellent facilities and those who choose to cruise on this ship should have an enjoyable time. JT/KT

La Goulette

Cathage

La Valetta

St John’s Cathedral

36

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

lunch. Our next stop was St John’s Cathedral. You will want to spend a lot of time exploring this majestic church. Flash photography inside the cathedral is prohibited. Time to return to the ship and we did it in style in an electric cab.Next day was an early morning arrival in Messina, the natural arrival point for travellers from the Italian Peninsula situated to the northeast of the island of Sicily.. Located on the Messina Straits and with a large natural harbour, Messina is one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean. The local Cathedral and its bell tower is a popular tourist attraction and from this point a bus tour takes you through

the narrow streets to higher ground for a panoramic view of the city and harbour. Alternatively you can travel inland to the slopes of Mount Etna, pay a visit to the Black Madonna in Tindari or journey to Taormina. Our cruise took us past Mt Etna on our way to Civitavecchia which is around an hour and a half bus journey away from Italy’s capital of Rome. Various excursions were available which included St Peter’s Square to visit the Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon to mention just a few.Our final port of call was Genoa, Italy’s main commercial port. It was a pity it was a rainy day, however the Red Bus gave us a great tour of the city below the surrounding ancient terrace hills taking in the historic town centre travelling along the fashion street, Via Roma with shops featuring the most elegant brands. A short walk from the ship was Genoa’s famous Aquarium reputed to be one of Europe’s finest and renowned for its size and vast variety of marine creatures. From Genoa where we departed at 5.00pm it was a 406 nautical mile sailing to Barcelona for a 1.00pm arrival. JT/KT

Barcelona

Messina

Genoa

GenoaSt Peters

St Peters

37

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Australia Day Launch

Forget the big red car! P&O Cruises hosted The Wiggles on a big white ship to mark the official launch of the 2013 Australia Day program. The location of the prestigious launch onboard Pacific Pearl reflected P&O Cruises’ new role as official sponsor of the Australia Day Sydney Harbour program in 2013 and 2014. To celebrate the holiday Pacific Pearl was moored in Sydney Harbour for the entire day with passengers enjoying a front row seat for all the festivities and the fireworks. Along with naming rights to the harbour program, the cruise line sponsored the 2.2km race in the Great Australian Swim Series Final in the harbour, while Pacific Pearl blew its whistle to mark the start of the Tall Ships Parade and Australia Day Regatta. The popular children’s group, The Wiggles, were performing in Sydney on the day. Speaking at the program launch, P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said the cruise line’s sponsorship of the official Australia Day activities on the harbour was an easy decision, given its long connection with Sydney Harbour. “Our link with this harbour goes all the way back to the 19th century when the first P&O mail steamer, Chusan, arrived in Sydney in 1852, and caused a sensation. We’ve now been cruising from Sydney for 80 years so we’re delighted to support such a fantastic celebration on such a magnificent harbour,” Ms Marshall said.Image: P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall onboard Pacific Pearl with The Wiggles (l to r) Emma Watkins, Lachlan Gillespie, Simon Pryce and Anthony Field as well as MS Australia representatives Emma Giunti and Stephen Papadopoulos (front row), promoting the inaugural MS Colour Run which forms part of the official Australia Day program.

Save the Children

(L-R) Pacific Dawn Cruise Director Lee Oliver and Hotel Director Joshua Dayboll meet locals at the Malapoa Aid Post in Vanuatu

P&O Cruises is offering its passengers the chance to make a big impact with their small change and give back to the destinations they visit through an exciting new partnership with Save the Children. As part of the new P&O Pacific Partnership initiative, the cruise line’s passengers will donate $1 via their onboard account with the aim of raising $1 million over four years to help fund community health and education projects in Pacific Island communities. Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia, officially launched the new partnership in Sydney with a $50,000 donation on behalf of the cruise line and its passengers. As well as cash donations,

P&O Cruises’ passengers will be able to take a hands-on approach with an onboard knitting program Born to Knit producing blankets for newborn babies throughout the Pacific.The P&O Pacific Partnership is part of Carnival Australia’s ongoing charity program, Carnival Cares, which also supports Lifeline Australia.

Simon Cheng, Marketing Director at Carnival Australia has joined P&O Cruises’ crew and passengers in learning for a good cause.

First Lau CruiseCaptain Cook Cruises, Fiji is embarking on the first ever Discovery Cruise, to a part of Fiji never seen by tourists before, the pristine Lau group. The cruise onboard the MV Reef Endeavour is scheduled to depart on 22 October, 2013 for 11 amazing nights. “Captain Cook Cruises is so

excited to be able to offer the first ever cruise around the Lau Group of Islands. We have worked really hard, using local knowledge and advice, to put together a fantastic 11 night itinerary that will not only show off everything Lau has to offer, but that will allow passengers to experience a remote and unspoilt part of Fiji.” Says Jackie Charlton, Managing Director of Captain Cook Cruises, Fiji. Invited to visit these incredible islands by locals eager to share their beauty, the 11 night Lau cruise will visit the untouched northern island of Lau - Wailagilala, Lau’s largest Island - Vanuabalavu, the most beautiful Island in the Lau group - Fulaga, the uninhabited Vuaqava, Kabara - known for its wood turning and Tongan heritage and the untouched white beaches of Totoya Island. On the way to and from the Lau group the cruise will stop in at Yanuca Island, Savusavu Bay and Kadavu, famous for its wildlife and underwater world. Passengers can also sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views as they cruise through the Bay of Islands, renowned for its beauty, pristine waters and spectacular scenery and the central Lau Group, passing Islands such as Lakeba, Oneata, Komo, Namuka-i-Lau and Yagasa.Exciting activities over these 12 days include Kayaking or river tubing on the Nasakawa River, mountain bike riding through hills, valleys and villages in Savusavu Bay, visiting a crater of an extinct volcano at Cobia, fishing at Wailagilala, visiting Fijian and Tongan influenced villages and schools, attending a local church service, exploring the flora and fauna of the Vuaqava region, a traditional Meke, Sevusevu and lovo feast and endless swimming, snorkelling and diving in the clear blue ocean water off picturesque islands and in beautiful lagoons.The Discovery Lau cruise departs 22 October 2013 at 1.00pm from Port Denarau and disembarks on 2 November, 2013 at 9.00am at Port Denarau.

“The Journey of the Krait”A Cruise to coincide with the 70th anniversary of the Krait’s audacious World War II mission from Darwin to Singapore is scheduled to depart on 25 September 2013. The 14-day South East Asia Explorer will be on APT’s small expedition ship Caledonia Sky with stops at Dili, Ende, Rinca Island, Sumbaya Island, Bali, Banjarmarsin, Kumai, Belitung Islands, Sekupang and Singapore but APT advises Caledonia Sky is likely to stop for ad hoc excursions along the way.

The Krait - Codenamed Operation Jaywick, this daring and secret mission saw 17 brave men evade enemy detection during a perilous journey from Australia’s west coast to Singapore. Disguised as local Malay fishermen, they navigated a small fishing boat, named the “Krait” after the deadly Indian snake, through enemy-controlled waters to Singapore’s harbour. Under the cover of darkness on September 26, 1943, they paddled canoes into the harbour to attach mines to several Japanese vessels. Once the harbour erupted, the operatives hid in enemy territory until they could secretly rendezvous with the Krait and return to Australia. Now owned by the Australian War Memorial, the historic vessel is proudly displayed at the Australian national maritime Museum in Sydney’s Darling Harbour.

Maritime Museums in New England

and beyondBy Tim Ryan

A few years ago we featured a report on Maritime Museums along the North Eastern seaboard of the United States and a recent visit to the New England and New York region continued to delight with the quality of the country’s maritime museums being exceptional. However as in any country, continuing support from the public as well as corporate and government funding is essential to retain the preservation of America’s important nautical heritage.Located in a park at the pretty seaside village of Portsmouth, New Hampshire is the former US Navy submarine USS Albacore which was built at the nearby Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in 1953. With a length of only 203 feet overall, Albacore was built as an experimental vessel and pioneered the shape of all future nuclear powered submarines and as such its unique design made a significant contribution to the development of US submarine technology.In Boston Massachusetts, the USS Constitution, known as“Old Ironsides” is preserved at the old Boston Navy yard and is a wooden hull, three-masted frigate which was prominent in the war of 1812 against Britain. Still a unit of the United States Navy, the Constitution is also the world’s oldest floating commissioned naval vessel. Moored ahead of the Constitution is USS Cassin Young, a handsome Fletcher class destroyer which served with distinction during the Second World War.Just south of Boston is the City of Quincy and the former Bethlehem Steel shipyard on the Fore River - the birthplace of many a fine ship including the three famous Matson Trans Pacific Liners Mariposa, Monterey and Lurline which were regular visitors to Australia prior to the second world war. The last two named vessels later served on Chandris Lines’ round world service to Australia in the 1960’s and 70’s as Britanis and Ellinis. Currently the former yard is a dedicated museum to US shipbuilding with its centrepiece being the former Des Moines class heavy cruiser USS Salem which was completed at the yard at the end of World War II.Further south in Massachusetts is “Battle Ship Cove” located at scenic Fall with the battleship USS Massachusetts being the main feature at the museum along with the submarine Lionfish and the Gearing class destroyer Joseph P Kennedy, named after President John F Kennedy’s older brother, a war hero. President Kennedy and Mrs Kennedy used the destroyer as a viewing platform to watch the Americas’ Cup 12 meter yachting duel between the US defender Weatherly and the Australian challenger Gretel off Newport Rhode Island in September 1962.Newport is a short drive away from Fall River and currently there are plans to restore the decommissioned aircraft carrier USS John F Kennedy which

was built in 1967 and display the ship as a museum commemorating the life of President Kennedy and also use the ship as a tribute to US Naval aviation on Newport’s scenic Narragansett Bay.South of Rhode Island is the historic town of Mystic in Connecticut where the famous Mystic Seaport is located. The Mystic Seaport is an outstanding maritime museum and many preserved wooden boats are displayed here including fishing vessels and schooners which are unique to the New England region. One of the highlights exhibited at Mystic is the Joseph Conrad, a steel, 111-foot vessel and one of the smallest full-rigged ships ever constructed. Built in Denmark in 1882, Melbourne born Captain Alan Villiers bought the vessel in 1934 and sailed the little ship on his famous two year voyage around the world which included a visit to Australia. The seaport also features numerous galleries and working exhibits including the art of wooden shipbuilding and preservation and a special research section which includes thousands of images of vessels including the famous Rosenfeld collection.A few miles south of Mystic is the city of New London on the Thames River which is the main US Navy submarine base and where the US Navy’s first nuclear powered submarine USS Nautilus is preserved. Named after the fictitious vessel in Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Nautilus forms the nucleus of the US Submarine Force museum. The submarine was launched in 1954 at the nearby General Dynamics shipyard at Groton by Mrs. Dwight D. Eisenhower, wife of President Eisenhower.Nautilus won the distinction of being the first ship to reach the geographic North Pole on 5 August 1958 and from the North Pole in a voyage that commenced in the Barrow Sea, Alaska two days earlier. After reaching the North Pole Nautilus proceeded east and after 96 hours and 1830 miles under the ice, the submarine surfaced northeast of Greenland, having completed the first successful voyage across the North Pole.Continuing the journey south down to New York the South Street Seaport located near Wall Street financial precinct features a museum and several historic sailing ships and other vessels. The recent Hurricane Sandy in October 2012 created havoc to the New York waterfront with damage to the wharves and exhibition areas with the museum currently closed. The steel-hulled four-masted barque Peking built in 1911 in Hamburg for the German company F. Laeisz, better known as the Flying P-Line is the main exhibit at the South Street Seaport but is in poor condition due to a lack

USS Albacore Norwegian Jewel, Concorde at USS Intrepid Museum

USS Intrepid Air Sea Space Museum

USS Joseph P Kennedy painting at JFK Library

USS Joseph P Kennedy

38

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

of funding and rumours persist that the vessel may return to Germany to be preserved there. Peking is a very significant ship and was one of the last generation of sailing ships used in the nitrate trade from Chile and wheat trade from Australia returning to Europe via Cape Horn.Another significant sailing ship displayed at South Street is the Wavertree built at Southampton, England in 1885 for R.W. Leyland & Company of Liverpool, which is also in poor condition with its future also in question. However the famous Ambrose light ship which is also on diplay appears to be well preserved.Heading up New York’s Westside and located near the Manhattan Cruise terminal is the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum one of America’s leading historic, cultural and educational institutions. The Museum is centered on the former Essex class aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, which was commissioned in 1943. Inrepid survived numerous Japanese Kamikaze and torpedo attacks during World War II and also participated in the Vietnam conflict. Intrepid also played an important role as one of the primary recovery vessels for NASA during the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo space programs and several space capsules are displayed on the ship’s expansive hangar deck. Opened in 1982, the Intrepid Museum has since welcomed more than 10 million visitors and serves as an educational centre and a monument to all who have served in the armed services. A recent addition to the flight deck is the former space shuttle Enterprise which is destined to become a great attraction for visitors to the Museum along with the world’s fastest commercial supersonic aircraft, a British Airways Concorde which is located on the wharf beside the ship.Heading south down to Camden, New Jersey on the Delaware River is the preserved Iowa class battleship USS New Jersey, a distinguished veteran of the conflicts during World War 2, Korea, Vietnam and Lebanon. Constructed across the river at the nearby Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, USS New Jersey continues to be a successful museum. Directly across the Delaware River from the battleship New Jersey lies the City of Philadelphia in Pennsylvania and historically significant Penn’s Landing where the Independence Seaport is located.The Independence Seaport and its main exhibit the Spanish-American War-era cruiser USS Olympia is also experiencing funding difficulties and the future of the Olympia is in some doubt. Olympia is a particularly significant ship having been built in 1892 and is most notable for being the flagship of Commodore George Dewey at the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898 and is one of the few pre dreadnought naval ships still afloat. It would be tragic if this significant ship is lost due to lack of funding to ensure its ongoing preservation.Further down the Delaware River at Philadelphia progress continues with the ambitious plans to convert the 52,000 ton SS United States, the fastest passenger liner ever built, into a hotel and maritime museum in either Philadelphia or New York. Laid up for over 40 years the United States was built in 1952 and operated across the Atlantic in competition with the Cunard Queens until being retired in 1969. Now owned by the ss United States Conservancy, the future of this amazing ship appears positive and it is expected that the Conservancy will announce some exciting plans for the ship some time later this year.A trip to the maritime precincts in the United States North East corridor with its quaint little fishing ports and world class cities is always a rewarding experience for visitors. The quality of the museums, the ships and other exhibits are outstanding but preserved ships are costly to maintain and it is only through good patronage and support that these institutions can survive.

39

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Space Shuttle Enterprise Drawbridge Mystic

USS Nautilus

Peaking at South Street NYC

Wavertree at South Street NYC Wooden Fishing Boat Roann at Mystic

Sabino at Mystic

Joseph Conrad on the slip at Mystic

Kingston II Mystic Seaport

True North Down South

By Tim RyanExpedition ship True North operated by Broome based North Star Cruises has spent the summer months visiting Southern Australian waters as part of its annual circumnavigation of Australia. The luxurious little adventure ship visited New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia before returning to Fremantle to prepare for its 2014 season along the Western Australian Coast and the Kimberley region.

North Star Cruises Australia conducts adventure-cruises on True North around the Australian coastline and also the stunning waters of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. All cruises are activity based with extended periods at sea specifically excluded with carefully crafted itineraries allowing the opportunity to intimately experience each exciting destination. Daily activities can include scenic walks, fishing, snorkelling, diving, picnics, natural history and cultural events. Founded by owner Craig Howson, North Star Cruises Australia pioneered luxury adventure-cruising along the Kimberley coast over 25 years ago with its first vessel being a converted fishing boat. The 50m True North was built by Austal Ships in 2005 at Fremantle and is purpose built to access remote wilderness areas and with a maximum draft of 2.2 metres the vessel can reach inaccessible areas that bigger ships cannot visit.True North spends much of the year between March and September exploring the magnificent Kimberley coast on either a one week or two week adventure-cruise alternating between Broome and Wyndham. Highlights include anchoring at the mouth of the King George River before crossing the sand bars at the river mouth at high tide revealing a breathtaking river vista while the journey upstream proceeds to the mighty King George Falls. Typically True North anchors at the base of the Twin Falls providing guests with the opportunity to explore the region whether climbing the sheer cliffs or take the embarked Eurocopter Squirrel helicopter to the top of the falls for a spectacular cruise highlight.Guests can visit waterholes, swim at “The Crevice” or participate in a heli-picnic at Eagle Falls, another picture-perfect waterfall in remote far-north Western Australia. Guests can also embark on one of True North’s six aluminum tenders exploring local beaches and rivers or participating in further breathtaking helicopter flights across this vast and beautiful region.True North offers luxurious cuisine and accommodation for 36 guests serviced by an enthusiastic all Australian crew of 20. The ship

features all ensuite cabins as well as in-cabin entertainment and private satellite telephones with passenger facilities including a sundeck, an observation lounge, the ship’s lounge, an alfresco bar and a sports deck. After completion of its Kimberley program in October, True North heads up to West Papua in Indonesia to visit the idyllic waters of the Indonesian archipelago with one of the highlights being swimming with the whale sharks at Cederawasih Bay. The region is teeming with fish and the on board marine biologist/naturalist together with crewmembers provide expert information sessions and participation in what must be one of the world’s greatest holiday experiences.Upon completion of the West Papua program True North turns into the Bismarck Sea visiting the pristine waters of Papua New Guinea including Rabaul, Madang and also a transit of the Sepik River, one of the most remote and untouched regions on the planet. Without doubt the beauty of the rugged islands and mountains of Papua New Guinea along with its range of tribal peoples is the ultimate experience for the intrepid traveller.Before returning to the Australian East Coast for Christmas, True North offers a series of cruises in the Coral Sea visiting Kavieng, Alotau and the Louisades Archiepelago. Remote jungles, native villages and coral islands are a feature of this unique area east of Papua New Guinea where the friendly natives go out of their way to provide the visitors with a special experience.True North offers a series of Rocks Cruises coinciding with the start of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race and New Years Eve

celebrations in Sydney which includes cruising up to the spectacular Hawkesbury River. True North then proceeds to Sorrento in Victoria for a promotional visit before heading to Adelaide to commence its Southern Safari exploring the coastline of Kangaroo Island and the Great Australian Bight with the cruise finishing in Ceduna.The True North experience provides a unique opportunity for a small number of guests to visit pristine areas largely uninhabited and untouched by human intervention or settlement. The privilege of meeting Papua New Guinea warriors dressed in war paint and tribal dress or diving in the idyllic waters of Western Australia or the Bismarck Sea are just a few of the exciting True North offerings which dreams are made of.

40

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

41

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

TunisTunisia is considered by many as the most stable country in Africa following political and social change since the “ J a s m i n e R evo l u t i o n ” in January

2011. The first democratic elections were held on 23

October 2011 and a new coalition government was sworn in on 24 December 2011. However, political protests and strikes still occur. An interesting fact is that women hold 23% of the seats in the Chamber of Deputies and more than one-fifth of the seats in both chambers of parliament are held by women, an exceptionally high level in the Arab world.Tunisia has a history of more than 3,000 years which starts from the times of the Phoenicians to the modern times of French rule and Tunis consists of three cities: the modern Capital City with its wide streets, skyscrapers and busy sidewalk cafe and markets, the Arabic Medina (old town) from the Middle Ages with its narrow alleyways home to small shops, huge mosques and palaces and Carthage, the ancient Phoenician – Roman city.Cruise ships arrive at a very modern port facility La Goulette a short bus ride from Carthage and about half an hour from the main city area.You can spend many hours walking around Carthage visiting the Roman amphitheatre, the baths, cisterns, cathedrals, museums and other areas. Carthage was once described as one of the most powerful cities in the Mediterranean by the end of the 6th century BC. The Medina contains 700 monuments (palaces, mosques, mausoleums, madrasas and fountains) of the ancient periods and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tunis can be a great place to shop, however the goods in the souks are overprized and you must be good at haggling to make a

purchase. Take a tip, spend most of your time around Carthage and then take a tour to the Medina for a quick walk through the Souks, but spend little time in the shops, especially the

carpet stores.We are glad we had the opportunity to visit. Tunisia wants tourists and are working hard to impress. JT/KT

42

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Celebrity Millennium’s Multi-Million Dollar

Upgrade When Celebrity Millennium returned to Australia’s shores last November for the first time since 2009 she boasted new interiors and features after a major multi-million dollar renovation in the Bahamas in May 2012. The massive transformation took three weeks to complete and is the fourth and final Millennium Class ship to complete the cruise line’s US$140-million “Solsticizing” process – a major renovation program that takes the very best features of Celebrity’s new Solstice Class and retrofits them to the Millennium Class. In addition to several new cabins and verandas, one major Solstice Class enhancement to Celebrity Millennium is the introduction of Celebrity’s trendsetting AquaClass category of staterooms which offer the ultimate ‘modern luxury’ experience. These staterooms feature: spacious, private verandas, exclusive complimentary access to the stylish specialty restaurant, Blu, complimentary access to the Persian Garden and Relaxation Room in the AquaSpa, personal spa concierge to book exotic AquaSpa treatments and an abundance of in-room facilities and products including: use of plush Frette bathrobes and slippers, enhanced personal care products, Hansgrohe shower heads, fog-free bathroom mirrors, aromatherapy selections, and daily deliveries of complimentary bottled water and teas.

Celebrity Millennium now also features several new dining venues including the Bistro on Five creperie and Qsine, the first restaurant at sea to present a menu and wine list on an iPad with quirky menu items such as popcorn shrimp in theatre-style popcorn boxes. Other upgrades include the hip Celebrity iLounge – an internet café which is also the cruise industry’s first authorised Apple reseller, the “cool” ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush, the inviting Café al Bacio and Gelateria and an expanded collection of original, contemporary art.

43

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Launches

New Blog

The new blog celebrates the tastes and tradition of the places visited by Regent Seven Seas Cruises along with valuable insider tips and destination information guests can use when planning their cruise vacation. More than 300 ports are visited every year. The cruise line has appointed Mara Papatheodorou as its special contributing editor. He will provide a regular blog feature called ‘Sail, Sip & Savour’ exploring the history of cuisine and culture in popular ports of call and also provide suggestions on where to dine locally and shop for special ingredients and other products unique to the region. Other regular blog features include ‘More to Explore’ an inside look at the best tours and excursions for every destination, and ‘Insider’ a behind the scenes look at the line from executives, staff and crew as well as special announcements on topics relevant to travellers.

Discovering the Canals of France

As part of the company’s development for 2013 and with the aim of introducing its customers to the charm of the canals of France, CroisiEurope is offering 7-day cruises on a barge, the “MS

Jeanine”. Named after the founder’s wife, this boat offers an opportunity to discover France’s most beautiful river banks between Burgundy and the Saône Valley. Authentic landscapes and typical villages will be part of the program for this brand new concept. Five different itineraries are available: The Doubs Valley, in the heart of a region of natural and architectural heritage - The most beautiful stops from the Doubs Valley to Burgundy - Changes of scenery and emotions from the Côte d’Or to Saône-et-Loire – France’s most beautiful river banks between Burgundy and the Saône Valley – The most beautiful landscapes of Alsace/Moselle from Strasbourg to Xouaxange. With a capacity

of 24 passengers, 12 spacious cabins with a window, MS Jeanine is 39 m long and 5.05 m wide. Each cabin with an outside view is equipped with a bathroom, shower and toilet, a TV, a radio, an indoor telephone a safety deposit box and air conditioning. On board, everything has been designed to be convivial with a lounge bar, a restaurant, a sun deck with loungers and parasols, a Jacuzzi and a barbecue deck at the front of the boat for outdoor pleasure. In an innovative design, this houseboat which will be renovated completely in April 2013 will undoubtedly be one of the most modern boats sailing in Europe. Bicycles are also available onboard. As with all the company’s other boats, the quality of service is in keeping with the CroisiEurope brand. This new vessel will be inaugurated in Strasbourg in April 2013.

Three More Suite Ships

Avalon Waterways has stepped up the expansion of its successful Suite Ship concept, announcing three new luxury vessels to enter service in 2014. The new ships will join their river cruise fleet in Europe and represent Avalon’s biggest single fleet upgrade since its inception. Details are revealed in Avalon’s newly released 2014 Preview Brochure, along with group discounts and early bird savings.With the launch of the new ships – Avalon Impression, Avalon Poetry II and Avalon Illumination – the river cruise specialist will offer a total of eight Suite Ships in an overall European fleet of 13 modern vessels. Their introduction will follow this year’s launch of Avalon Artistry II and Avalon Expression in April and May.

Avalon’s new 2014 Preview brochure details 26 of its most popular river cruise itineraries on the great waterways of Europe, including the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Main, Rhône and Seine rivers. Two of Avalon’s existing ships, Avalon Tranquility and Avalon Imagery, will leave the fleet at the end of 2013. Both are less than seven years old, but will be retired as part of Avalon’s commitment to maintain Europe’s youngest fleet, with an average age of less than three years.

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

44

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

MasterChef Julie Goodwin and the PS Murray Princess

Australia’s first ‘MasterChef’ winner and resident cook on Channel Nine’s Today Show, Julie Goodwin, has partnered with Captain Cook Cruises and will be holding three cooking demonstrations for passengers onboard the 4 night Murray River cruise departing 10 June 2013. ‘I’m so looking forward to working with Captain Cook Cruises and visiting the beautiful Murray River again. I’ll be creating some delicious dishes using the amazing produce from the South Australia region, and it will be great meeting the passengers and having some fun in the kitchen with them. I am also excited to have the opportunity to partake in the cruise with my family” said Julie Goodwin. “With just 120 places available on the cruise, food and wine lovers wishing to combine their passion with a visit to the Murray, a region famous for its food and wine, and the opportunity to meet Julie Goodwin, would need to move quickly to guarantee their place on board.” says Richard Doyle, Head of Sales and Marketing, Captain Cook Cruises.The four night Julie Goodwin Cooking Cruise departs from Mannum on 10 June 2013 at 4.30pm, returning to Mannum on Friday 14 June at 9.00am. Passengers also have the option to stay onboard and extend to a seven night cruise and visit the region between Walkers Flat and Murray Bridge, including a tour to the Barossa Valley and its wineries. The seven night cruise returns 17 June 2013.

New 2013 Theme Cruises

American Cruise Lines has announced the addition of three brand new theme cruises for 2013, including a Gold Rush theme cruise in Alaska, a Civil War Eastern Theatre theme cruise to complement the Western Theatre cruise offered on the Mississippi River and a new Enrichment theme cruise to relax the mind, body and soul of guests aboard the New England Islands itinerary. On the Gold Rush – Alaska Inside Passage 20 July 2013 guests will experience rugged mountains and stunning glaciers as they explore Gold Rush history. They’ll board the historic White Pass Yukon Railroad, a narrow-gauge railroad built in 1898 during the Gold Rush to transport miners. A stop in Skagway, a newly added port of call, will allow guests to discover Klondike Gold Rush National Park. Following the popularity of Civil War theme cruises on the Mississippi River, American Cruise Lines has introduced the theme

to the East Coast on 6 April 2013. On this new cruise, guests will discover the Eastern Theatre of the American Civil War, visiting pivotal cities of

the South such as Charleston, where some of the first shots of the Civil War were fired in 1861. In Savannah, guests will enjoy an eye-opening tour of its Colonial, Revolutionary and Civil War history; as well as its many fascinating historic buildings and monuments. They’ll visit historic battle grounds such as the site of the Battle of Fort Sumter in South Carolina. The 6 July 2013 Enrichment: Mind, Body & Soul – New England Islands cruise will allow guests to relax and unwind in their spacious and elegantly appointed staterooms. An assortment of unique onboard and onshore activities are offered, which will energize and revitalize the guests: Morning yoga classes, walking groups, painting sessions and a presentation on health-conscious cooking and cuisine will be featured. Additional theme cruises offered in 2013 include: Lobster Festival Cruise on 20 July and Culinary & Wine Themed Cruise on 4 May 2013.

All-Inclusive River CruisesUniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection will introduce all-inclusive river cruises throughout Europe. Currently Uniworld offers a host of inclusions such as; all non-alcoholic beverages, fine wine and beer served during lunch and dinner aboard, fully hosted and locally guided shore excursions, free Internet and Wi-Fi onboard, and all arrival and departure day transfers. Next year, Uniworld will expand its services and amenities to feature 24 hour dining including unlimited fine wine, beer, and spirits, and all gratuities while onboard and onshore including pre and post-cruise extensions.

Travel Author to Launch Newest Suite Ship

Avalon Waterways has named best-selling author Patricia Schultz to launch its newest luxury ship Avalon Expression, one of two new Suite Ships to join the river cruise operator’s fleet this year. The New York-based travel writer and author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die will christen the 83-cabin Expression at a ceremony on the Moselle at the scenic town of Cochem, Germany, on May 6. As a travel journalist for the past 25 years, Ms Schultz has written for guides including Frommer’s and Berlitz as well as for publications including The Wall Street Journal. She was executive producer of a Travel Channel television show based on her 1,000 Places to See Before You Die best-seller.Meanwhile, Avalon has chosen high-profile Philippine travel industry identity Marilen Sandejas-Yaptangco to launch its other new ship Avalon Artistry II in April, reflecting the company’s growing presence in Asia. The 64-cabin Artistry II will be christened at a canal-side ceremony in the historic Dutch town of Middelburg on April 11. Ms Sandejas-Yaptangco is President and Chief Executive Officer of Manila-based Baron Travel. She is a respected figure in Philippine tourism and a past two-term President of the Philippine Travel Agencies Association.The introduction of Avalon Expression and Avalon Artistry II will give Avalon a total of five Suite Ships in an overall European fleet of 12 luxury vessels. The first Avalon Suite Ship the 83-cabin Avalon Panorama was launched in 2011. The ships feature two decks of all-suite accommodation and wall-to-wall panoramic windows that draw back to turn the entire cabin into an open-air balcony. Designed with Australian travellers in mind, Panorama was a sell-out success, prompting the introduction of sister Suite Ships Avalon Vista and Avalon Visionary in 2012, and the upcoming Avalon Expression and Avalon Artistry II.Avalon Waterways offers more than 30 different river cruise itineraries on the great waterways of Europe, including the Rhine, Danube, Main, Moselle, Seine and Rhône. It also offers 16 other itineraries on the Mississippi, the Yangtze, the Nile and the Mekong, as well as among the Galápagos Islands.

46

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Viking River Cruises has announced a new 16-day itinerary in Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand—Memories of Mandalay—marking the company’s first-ever offering on the majestic Irrawaddy River. “Burma is a magical destination in Southeast Asia, and we are pleased to offer our guests the opportunity to explore its rich history and spiritual wonders first hand,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking River Cruises. “We look forward to bringing our considerable experience and award-winning service to the Irrawaddy River in 2014.”Ancient temples and exotic scenery serve as the backdrop for the itinerary. This 16-day journey begins in the lively metropolis of Bangkok, where guests will explore the city’s colourful landmarks, including the floating markets on the Chao Phraya River and the famous Grand Palace. The land portion of the itinerary continues in Yangon, the former Burmese capital also known as Rangoon. Guests will admire the city’s colonial-era architecture along Strand Road and historic Buddhist temples, some thought to be more than 2,500 years old. Guests will also have a chance to visit a local marketplace and to see Shwedagon Pagoda, sometimes called the Golden Pagoda, the most sacred Buddhist pagoda for the Burmese. A tribute to the grand tradition of riverboat exploration in Southeast Asia, the newly refurbished Viking Mandalay offers guests the chance to experience the diverse destinations along the Irrawaddy River from the comfort of one of the newest and most beautifully designed vessels in the region. From the colonial frontier post of Thayetmyo and the Italian-built

forts of Minhla & Gwechaung, to the Golden temple of Mya-Tha-Lun Pagoda in Magway and the monasteries of Salé and Bagan, guests will visit the region’s most magnificent sites. Passengers will also gain a sense for everyday life in Burma in the pottery villages of Yandabo and an understanding of its ancient past in the former Burmese capitals of Ava and Amarapura. In historic Mandalay, the Mahamuni Pagoda, with its serene gold-leaf statue of the Buddha, and Shwenandaw Golden Palace monastery, with its exquisite teak carvings, are just a few of the city’s incredible offerings. On the final stop of the itinerary guests return to Bangkok, where they may explore the city’s famous canals and distinctive stupas (spires) and wander through local marketplaces to celebrate their last night in this magnificent region.

New Wine Itinerary in France

Viking River Cruises has announced a new itinerary in France’s Bordeaux region for 2014 that will celebrate the senses. The eight-day cruise “Châteaux, Rivers & Wine” will allow guests to enjoy the beauty and history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region, while exploring some of the world’s finest names in wine. Guests will sail on Viking Forseti, marking the first time an award-winning Viking Longship will be deployed in France. “Our itineraries in France have always been very popular, and we are pleased to introduce this unique new experience in the Bordeaux region,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking River Cruises. “We have designed an itinerary that allows our guests to explore this historically fascinating region and enjoy some of the world’s most celebrated wines.” Châteaux, Rivers & Wine takes guests on a unique exploration of the Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde Rivers, through the region that has for centuries produced France’s most remarkable wines including Margaux, Pomerol, St. Emilion and Sauternes. The cruise journey begins in Bordeaux and makes its first stop in Pauillac, where guests can sip the full-bodied blends of the renowned Médoc and Margaux wine regions and travel along the famed Route des Châteaux for an insight into authentic château life. Next, guests have the opportunity to explore the Citadel in Blaye and the charming town of St. Emilion—both UNESCO World Heritage sites—before continuing on to picturesque Cadillac, where they can taste the sweet Premier Cru wines from the Sauternes region. The unhurried voyage concludes with an in-depth tour of the beautiful churches, grand Louis XV architecture and charming cafes of Bordeaux. To enhance appreciation and understanding of the Aquitaine Valley during the journey, Viking’s Culture Curriculum on Châteaux, Rivers & Wine has been designed with the assistance of local experts to provide opportunities for passengers to experience various aspects of the regional culture. Guests may learn to make tender canelés, a caramelized custard pastry, observe the winemaking traditions that have made the area so famous, begin or expand their appreciation of fine Bordeaux wines with the guidance of a master sommelier, and brush up on their conversational French with optional on board lessons. Guests will travel on the state-of-the-art Viking Forseti, which will be the newest and most innovative ship to sail the rivers of the Aquitaine Valley and the first Viking Longship to sail in France.

Explore on Bicycles Scenic Tours are offering complimentary electronically assisted bicycles for use by guests on their European river cruises. Guests may choose a guided tour with a local guide or a GPS self-guided Scenic Tailormade experience. Everyone on board a Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ is provided with their very own handheld device providing flexible and independent sightseeing options for the duration of the river cruise. The electronically assisted bicycles have special mounts for a self-guided tour device making it impossible to get lost and allowing for the most convenient and relaxing form of exploration. During the river cruise, the Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ will stop at many bike-friendly towns boasting wide, flat paths along river banks.

Myanmar (Burma) Itinerary for 2014

Moonshadow Cruises now in

Newcastle!Moonshadow Cruises now has a vessel permanently in Newcastle Harbour to operate Dinner, Luncheon and Harbour Sights and Sounds Cruises exploring the largest coal export harbour in the world. The vessel will also be available for Private Charters, Product Launches, Weddings, Birthdays and many more special occasions.

Welcome to Port Arthur

48

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

The former voice of LRB, Glenn Shorrock, had 116 Australian fans heading down memory lane on a recent cruise of the Yangtze River, aboard Victoria Cruises’ luxury vessel, Jenna.

Booked through leading China specialist Helen Wong’s Tours to perform a mini concert for a large group of Sydney radio 2UE listeners, Glenn showed he hadn’t lost his touch when he opened with his band’s largest worldwide hit, Reminiscing.One hit he wrote for LRB – Cool Change – followed. And, yes there was an encore at the end of the show. “It was a great finale to a day spent exploring the spectacular Three Gorges,” said the UK born singer-songwriter who was the inaugural lead singer of the Little River Band. “I, however, never thought I would be singing to a group of Australians on a cruise of the Yangtze. I must do something similar again, perhaps in a different location.”Passengers paid $5300 per person twin share from Australia for the Helen Wong’s Tours 12-day Cruise the Yangtze tour which also had as special guests leading Sydney weekend radio identities, George Moore and Paul B Kidd, and included visits to Beijing, Chongqing and Shanghai. For an artist who fronted a group with seven top 10 hits in the USA in the 1970s, Glenn seemed to choose well to share some of his former band’s hits with travelling companions, not on the Mississippi, but China’s Yangtze, the world’s third longest river.Not only did he enjoy seeing for the first time the breathtaking features of the famous Three Gorges – Qutang, Wu and Xiling. He had ample time to mingle with the fans on a cruise which stretched over three nights.Built in 2009 with a capacity to cater for 378 passengers, Victoria Jenna is the newest member of an ever-expanding American-owned Victoria Cruises fleet which includes such vessels as Katarina, Anna, Grace, Sophia, Lianna and Selina.Gourmet dining which includes both western and Chinese cuisine is a feature along with general nightly entertainment, fashion shows, Tai Chi classes and lectures ranging from discussions on Chinese medicines to chats on the region and Chinese history and culture.There are also side excursions to such fascinating centres as Fengdu as well as mini cruises along the Daning River (to see the Lesser Gorges) and the Shennong Stream.Another highlight is the tour of the massive 2335-metre long and 185-metre high Three Gorges Dam which, when completed saw a dramatic rise in the water depth and ultimate flooding of 13 cities, 140 towns, 1352 villages, hectares upon hectares of farmland and the relocation of just under two million habitants.So successful was the recent tour that Helen Wong’s Tours plans to arrange further celebrity tours in 2013.

Reminiscing on the Yangtzeby Mike Smith

50

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

▲▲▲▲

▲▲

▲▲▲▲▲▲

▲▲

▲▲▲

PhotoGallery

51

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Ships featured on both pages from top of pages across and down: Crystal Symphony (Robert Miller), Carnival Spirit (Roger Cantwell), Voyager of the Seas (Tim Ryan), Seabourn Odyssey (John Treacy), Volendam (Roger Cantwell), Nautica (John Treacy), Horizon (Marek Holden), SuperStar Aquarius and Aegean Odyssey (Roger Cantwell), MSC Orchestra (John Treacy), Norwegian Spirit (Ron Quirk) Costa Mediterranean (John Treacy), Seven Seas Voyager (Andrew Mackinnon), Oosterdam (Robert Miller), Silver Shadow (John Treacy), Arcadia (Ron Quirk), Grand Celebration (John Treacy) and Celebrity Solstice (Andrew Mackinnon).

52

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

Mark Taylor AOCruising Ambassador

for World WideCruise Centres

Mark Taylor will always be remembered as one of Australia’s finest cricket captains, opening batsmen and slips fieldsmen. Mark played 104 Tests for Australia – 50 as captain – between 1989 and 1999 and retired from the game with a commendable batting average of 43.50 and 157 catches (then the

world record). During his reign as Australia’s Test captain from 1994 to 1999 he was at the helm of several historic overseas series victories: Australia’s first in South Africa in 40 years, first in Pakistan in 39 years and first in the Caribbean in 22 years. Leeton-born Taylor scored 19 Test centuries and 40 scores over 50 for Australia and will always be remembered for his all-conquering 334 not out against Pakistan in 1998 which enabled him to join Sir Donald Bradman on Australia’s then highest-ever Test score. Mark toured England on three occasions as a member of Ashes-winning Australian teams – in 1989, 1993 (as vice-captain) and 1997 (as captain). On his debut tour (1989), he scored 839 runs in Tests, making him the second highest run-getter on Ashes tours behind Sir Donald Bradman. In 2003, Mark Taylor, the 1999 Australian of the Year and 1995 NSW Father of the Year, was awarded the Order of Australia (AO in the General Division) for his services to cricket and charity and the Centenary Medal for his services to cricket and the community. He is a member of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and the NSW Sports Centre Hall of Champions. In 1997, Mark was a Founding Director of Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation which helps finance research into the treatment of cancer. Mark Taylor in 2011 was inducted in the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, joining such luminaries as Sir Donald Bradman, Victor Trumper, Bill O’Reilly, Keith Miller, Arthur Morris, brothers Ian and Greg Chappell, Richie Benaud and Dennis Lillee. To mark his playing days with Northern Districts in Sydney, Mark Taylor in 2011 had the honour of having the club’s home ground, Waitara Oval, renamed Mark Taylor Oval. Mark, who has written three books, is a long-established member of the Nine Network’s cricket commentary team.He is looking forward to his role at World Wide Cruise Centres. “I first started cruising in the late 1990s with my wife, Judi. We were a little unsure if I would enjoy the experience. Our first cruise was to the Mediterranean (Barcelona to Rome) for nine days. We loved it! Since that day, we have become regular Cruisers and have enjoyed visiting places such as Tahiti, Greek Islands, Canada and Alaska. It is a great way to relax and experience the many different parts of the world. I like the fact that you can choose to either ‘cruise hard’ and do many shore excursions or simply relax, stay on board the ship and enjoy the service and facilities that are on offer. I can’t wait until my next cruise!!”

Mark Taylor will be featured in various marketing campaigns for World Wide Cruise Centres as part of his ambassadorial role.

Appointment as Director of Sales

Anton Loeb has been appointed Director of Sales for Carnival Cruise Lines Australia and New Zealand. Bringing over 15 years’ travel sales experience, Anton will lead Carnival Cruise Lines’ new, dedicated team of Business

Development Managers as they build their travel agent partners’ Carnival Cruise Lines business. Former Head of Sales for Cover-More Travel Insurance, Anton’s extensive knowledge of the travel industry, and his proven expertise in developing sound sales strategies, will make him a valuable addition to the Carnival Cruise Lines family. His previous experience includes years working with reputable travel organisations such as Contiki and The Globus Family of Brands.

Public Relations Manager Appointed

As it celebrates ten years’ cruising from Australia Princess Cruises has taken an important step in its growth story with the appointment of a public relations manager for Australia and New Zealand. Meg Koffel, with ten years’ experience in public relations, marketing and events in the private and public sectors, including six years devoted to tourism, has started in the new position this month. Princess Cruises Commercial Director in Australia Alan Stuart said recruitment of a brand specific public relations manager was a natural progression for Princess Cruises, which has played an integral part in the remarkable growth of the local cruise market.Meg Koffel pictured with Nick Ferguson (Marketing Manager) and Alan Stuart

2000th Commodore NamedP&O Cruises Academy is celebrating a milestone with the graduation of its 2000th Commodore from the training program. Travel consultant Alana Pearce from Flight Centre Mountain Gate in Victoria, climbed the ranks of the academy program from First Officer to Commodore in under five months, achieving the result in December. The online training program is designed to boost product knowledge and improve sales and features 24 modules and a final exam, covering topics such as customer service and sales, onboard products, destinations, and selling technology, including documentation and POLAR Online.

Academy training also offers a range of benefits including education credits with ICCA, priority access to shipboard events, access to graduation cruises and special offers and promotions. The P&O Cruises Academy now boasts more than 8000 registered travel agents across Australia and New Zealand.Commodore Alana Pearce with Complete Cruise Solution’s new business partnership manager Kylie Clancy

Community ServiceLocal maritime historian Chris Frame recently delivered a lecture at the Bethanie Mt. Claremont Social Centre in Perth. The lecture, about the history of the famous ocean liner QE2, shared with the clients of the social centre the history, life and times of QE2 over her 40 year history. Clients of the social centre have also played host to a cruising seminar held by Cruise Guru in which Chris offered a short history of the cruise industry. Bethanie’s Mt. Claremont social centre specializes in care and activities for over-55’s in the local area, as well as offering a weekly activity and care service for younger people with disabilities. The centre ensures the elderly and disabled in the community are able to access high quality entertainment, services, care and meals. Many of the clients at Bethanie have seen, heard of or even travelled on QE2

Celebrity Cruises has received glowing reports from agencies that have been board all saying that design, décor and the food were fantastic. Photos from onboard below.

From left to right top row then bottow row - Darryl & Karen Muspratt from Eseacruising, Anne Graham & Julie Ricardo from Just Cruises, Jess Lindsley from Flight Centre Warrawong & Alice Bagoly from Flight Centre Woollongong, Lisa Hall & Craig Gold from Travelscene Bathurst, Matthew & Julia Chisholm from Chisholm & Turner Travel Associates, Julie Ricardo from Just Cruises & Rob Shaw from Royal Caribbean, Heather Pryde, Courtney Goodsell, Sharon Grant from Flight Centre.

Queens Wharf Shed 10 – Cruise

Terminal

Auckland will have a new and very unique cruise terminal for the 2013-14 cruise season for the 200,000 cruise passengers and up to 80,000 crew who arrive each season.Shed 10 on Queens Wharf, a 100 year old registered historic building, is being refurbished by Auckland Council as the new cruise terminal. Contemporary features such as large lifts, escalator and other functional amenities for the double storey cargo shed, are designed to enable the building to operate successfully as both a cruise terminal and an event facility whilst respecting the heritage fabric of the building. The refurbishment works will retain or reinstate original features of the Shed allowing close appreciation of the rustic steel and timber construction which includes magnificent native wood flooring, substantial Australian hardwood joists and single span steel roof trusses. As well as allowing visitors to appreciate the Shed’s working heritage, the refurbishment will offer wide views of the Waitemata Harbour, the Rangitoto volcano, the city and working waterfront.Extensive use of natural light and ventilation, the addition of solar power panels on the roof to feed the electricity grid and the reuse of rainwater will allow Shed 10 to be sustainable into the future. The addition of cultural art works and the curating of heritage artefacts will add to the Sheds appeal.Auckland is one of the few cities where a cruise vessel can berth in the heart of the city. The Shed 10 refurbishment will increase the potential of the cruise industry to contribute to the visitor economy. The Auckland Visitor Plan outlines the city’s aim of increasing the annual visitor economy from $3 billion to around $6 billion per annum by 2021.The cruise industry is an important part of the visitor economy and the new cruise terminal will go a long way to improving the visitor experience for the thousands of cruise passengers that experience Auckland each year and will maximise the opportunity to grow the overall economic benefit for Auckland. Following on from the success of Queens Wharf, which attracted more than 1 million visitors during RWC 2011 and tens of thousands for the World Triathlon Championships, the refurbishment of Shed 10 will further enhance the Wharf’s ability to host events, as well as an impressive public space reflecting the culture and heritage of Auckland and New Zealand and an opportunity to connect with Waitemata Harbour.Also Cruise New Zealand will once again be representing its members at March’s Cruise Shipping Miami. The Cruise New Zealand’s

website (www.cruisenewzealand.org.nz) is being refreshed and this new site is scheduled to be completed in mid-March and will provide New Zealand’s cruise industry stakeholders an easy to use one-stop information resource. For more details

Raewyn TanExecutive OfficerCruise New ZealandM +64 22 090 7752E Raewyn@cruisenewzealand.org.nzwww.cruisenewzealand.org.nz

‘Cruise Forward’Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has launched ‘Cruise Forward’, a new industry-wide communications initiative that will promote awareness of cruising’s wide-ranging contributions and engage stakeholders across the global cruise industry. CLIA President and CEO Christine Duffy said the initiative, which includes a ‘Cruise Forward’ website and Facebook page, aimed to show that the global cruise industry offered more than a great travel and entertainment experience, also delivering benefits like economic development and cultural exchange.‘Cruise Forward’ will showcase how the industry is: Delivering significant economic benefits: The cruise industry generated nearly $100 billion in economic impact and more than 753,000 jobs worldwide in 2011. Supporting community organizations: Whether providing financial support to local charities, protecting the cultural heritage of port communities, or involving employees and guests in volunteer opportunities, cruising makes a difference in hundreds of ports across the globe. Safeguarding the oceans and the environment: Cruise lines are actively working to reduce the overall environmental impact of cruising and preserve and protect our pristine oceans, beaches and ports. Fostering a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment: The global cruise industry is committed to undertaking initiatives that provide passengers one of the safest, affordable, and enjoyable vacation experiences available today.Ms Duffy said those closest to the cruise industry knew the many benefits it delivered such as the value of cultural exchange and the volunteerism that happens every day from passengers, crew and employees. “We must do more to share these stories and ‘Cruise Forward’ will help us do just that and also increase public awareness regarding the industry’s extensive commitment to supporting community partnerships, safeguarding the environment and delivering wide-ranging economic benefits worldwide,” Ms Duffy said.Ms Duffy announced in December that nine regional cruise industry associations – including the International Cruise council Australasia - would form a common organisation to serve as the voice and advocacy leader of the global cruise industry. Under the changes being rolled out this year, ICCA will become known as Cruise Lines International Association Australasia or CLIA Australasia. International Cruise Council Australasia General Manager Brett Jardine said his organisation was looking forward to using ‘Cruise Forward’ to showcase the work of its cruise line members in the local region.‘Cruise Forward” will serve as a global platform for representatives from the cruise industry to engage industry stakeholders – customers, employees, business partners, port communities, policymakers and the media – across social media and at industry and community events to foster a global discussion about the benefits that cruising brings to individuals and to society.

For additional information, please see www.CruiseForward.org or join Cruise Forward on Facebook (Facebook.com/CruiseForward).

53

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3

From the CDU desk: CDU members have had little rest this summer, with yet another r e c o r d

breaking season. As most people headed away on Christmas breaks, those involved in the cruise industry were busy facilitating successful port visits. I was fortunate to witness the way in which the cruise industry works with a destination and activities going on in it, as I was involved in running six youth sailing regattas on the Derwent River in Hobart. During the three week event program eight called to the port of Hobart. During these visits, the cruise ships had to negotiate a channel up the river, often through fleets of over 500 sailing dinghy’s, with as small as seven year olds at the helm. The Masters of the ships were so willing to work around the sailing courses and slow their approaches to the port. The interstate and international visitors were also thrilled to experience such a vibrant waterway, all working together.As we head into March, the CDU team heads to Miami for the annual Cruise Shipping Miami event. This year we will be hosting an Aussie BBQ at the stand so that cruise executives can become familiar with one of the simple but iconic traditions of our country.Cruise Shipping Miami continues to deliver opportunities to promote our region and further develop the strong business to business relationships with our cruise partners, established over many years now. We have a strong team attending this year with representation from key ports, tourism organisations and suppliers.With the 2012-13 cruise season well advanced, we start to collect the valuable data on port visits that will be translated into our economic impact study. This years’ study will provide us with nine consecutive years of comparative data. The study will be released at the CDU Conference being held from the 11th to 13th September in Cairns.

Further Details – and all media enquiries:Jill Abel

General Manager, Cruise Down UnderTel/Fax: +61 3 62237334

Mob: 0419 511 966

NEWS FROM

Keeping you informedwith the latest news &

informationabout the Global Cruise

Passenger Industry

Plus a comprehensive coverage of global passenger cruising

Subscribe Now!Published: February, April, June, August, October and December.Subscription Rates: (includes postage) Australia A$36.30(gst included) Overseas - New Zealand $48.00 AUD and Rest of World $72.00 AUD

MSC Christening

On Board Marina

PublishedFebruary, April, June,

August, October & DecemberPublisher/Editor

John TreacyAssociate Editor

Kerry Treacy Advertising

John Treacy & AssociatesPh + 61 7 33496788

PO Box 2005 MansfieldQueensland Australia 4122

Email: jta@bigpond.comWeb Site

www.cruisingnews.comPre-PressMotivart

Photos this issue –Celebrity Cruises, Cunard, Oceanic Cruises, RCI, Silversea, Princess Cruises, Azamara Cruises, MSC Cruises, Holland America, Ian Hunter, SeaDream Yacht Club, Fred Olsen Line, Carnival Australia, APT, Captain Cook Cruises Fiji, CroisiEurope, Avalon Waterways, Viking River Cruises, Moonshadow Cruises, Scenic Tours, John & Kerry Treacy

Subscriptions can be paid online using PayPal, Visa or MasterCard. Check website for more details www.cruisingnews.com

Or send cheque/money order payable to John Treacy & Associates or by Amex only – provide Card Number, Name on Card, Expiry Date and please sign. Send to Cruising News PO Box 2005, Mansfield Qld 4122 or CALL 07 33496788 to arrange direct debit bank transaction.

Click onto the Notice Board at www.cruisingnews.com

for the latest Cruising News Updates

lOCAtiONs tO sPOt shiPs

NEXt issUEMiD APRil 2013

AUSTRALIADARWINCrystal Symphony Feb 19:Artania Feb 23:Celebrity Solstice Feb 24:Voyager of the Seas Feb 27:Europa Mar 4:Balmoral Mar 8:Seabourn Odyssey Mar 10:Sea Princess Mar 13:Diamond Princess Mar 15:Ocean Princess Apr 6:Sun Princess Apr 7:Dawn Princess Apr 9:

PORT DOUGLASDiamond Princess Mar 12:Celebrity Solstice Apr 1:Pacific Dawn Apr 3:Dawn Princess Apr 6:

YORKEYS KNOBCelebrity Solstice Feb 27: Mar 31:Queen Mary 2 Mar 2:Pacific Dawn Apr 2:

CAIRNSSeabourn Odyssey Mar 5:Artania Feb 19:Rhapsody of the Seas Feb 22/23: Mar 27/28: Seabourn Quest Feb 22:Europa Feb 27:Pacific Princess Mar 7:Caledonian Sky Mar 15:Radiance of the Seas Apr 15:

TOWNSVILLESeabourn Quest Feb 21:Seabourn Odyssey Mar 4:

BRISBANE Pacific Dawn Feb 23: Mar 2, 9, 23, 30: Apr 6, 13, 20, 27, 30:Rhapsody of the Seas Feb 27: Apr 1: Sun Princess Mar 4, 18, 29:Radiance of the Seas Mar 8: Apr 11:Aurora Feb 24:Europa Feb 24:Arcadia Feb 25:Queen Victoria Feb 26:Seabourn Odyssey Mar 1: Balmoral Mar 1:Celebrity Solstice Mar 2: Apr 5:Queen Mary 2 Mar 5:Dawn Princess Apr 2:Sea Princess Apr 13:

SYDNEYVoyager of the Seas Feb 19: Radiance of the Seas Feb 20: Mar 6: Apr 9, 19:Sea Princess Feb 21: Mar 6: Apr 15:Europa Feb 21/22:Aurora Feb 22:Queen Victoria Feb 23/24:Balmoral Feb 25-27:Seabourn Odyssey Feb 27:Arcadia Feb 27/28:Pacific Pearl Feb 28: Mar 8, 17, 27: Apr 6, 15:Costa Deliziosa Feb28-Mar 2:Rhapsody of the Seas Mar 1, 11, 23: Apr 3, 12, 24:Oosterdam Mar 2/3, 16: Apr 13: Pacific Princess Mar 3:Pacific Jewel Mar 4, 14, 18, 28, 31: Apr 10, 19, 28:

Celebrity Solstice Mar 4/5, 27/28: Apr 7/8: Queen Mary 2 Mar 7, 19:Diamond Princess Mar 8/9: Caledonian Sky Mar 10:Marina Mar 13/14:Carnival Spirit Mar 21: Apr 2, 11, 21, 29: Ocean Princess Mar 29: Dawn Princess Mar 31: Apr 28:Sun Princess Apr 1:

NEWCASTLERhapsody of the Seas Feb 19: Mar 24:Radiance of the Seas Apr 18:

MELBOURNEOosterdam Feb 27: Mar 18: Apr 11:Carnival Spirit Mar 1, 14:Pacific Pearl Mar 2:Dawn Princess Mar 3, 9, 16, 29: Apr 23: Costa Deliziosa Mar 4:Caledonian Sky Mar 6:Diamond Princess Mar 6:Celebrity Solstice Mar 7, 25: Marina Mar 11, 17:Queen Mary 2 Mar 21:Radiance of the Seas Mar 31:

HOBARTBalmoral Feb 23:Caledonian Sky Mar 1:Voyager of the Seas Mar 3:Pacific Pearl Mar 4:Diamond Princess Mar 4:Marina Mar 9, 19:Carnival Spirit Mar 17/18:Oosterdam Mar 20: Apr 9:Radiance of the Seas Mar 29:Dawn Princess Apr 25:

BURNIEPacific Princess Mar 1; Pacific Pearl Mar 3:Saga Ruby Mar 12:Carnival Spirit Mar 16:Dawn Princess Apr 24:

FREMANTLEAmsterdam Feb 25:Costa Deliziosa Mar 8:Voyager of the Seas Mar 9:Radiance of the Seas Mar 22:Queen Mary 2 Mar 26:Dawn Princess Apr 16:

ADELAIDEAmsterdam Feb 20:Voyager of the Seas Mar 5: Queen Mary 2 Mar 23:Radiance of the Seas Mar 27:Dawn Princess Apr 21:

NEW ZEALANDAUCKLANDQueen Victoria Feb 19:Queen Elizabeth Feb 20:Oosterdam Feb 20: Mar 29/30:Sun Princess Feb 22: Mar 8:Diamond Princess Feb 22:Voyager of the Seas Feb 23:Seabourn Odyssey Feb 23:Costa Deliziosa Feb23:Asuka II Feb 24:Pacific Princess Feb 25:Carnival Spirit Feb 25: Mar 10:Marina Feb 26: Mar 28:Dawn Princess Feb 27: Mar 7, 20:

Sea Princess Feb 17, 25:Radiance of the Seas Mar 2:Arcadia Mar 8:Queen Mary 2 Mar 11:Celebrity Solstice Mar 16:Pacific Dawn Mar 19: Ocean Princess Mar 24: Pacific Pearl Apr 19, 29:

NAPIERAurora Feb 18:Caledonian Sky Feb 19:Queen Elizabeth Feb 21:Carnival Spirit Feb 23: Mar 8:Sun Princess Feb 24: Mar 10:Voyager of the Seas Feb 25:Dawn Princess Feb 25: Mar 9, 22:Sea Princess Feb 27:Marina Mar 2:Arcadia Mar 7:Bremen Mar 15:Pacific Dawn Mar 17:Oosterdam Mar 27: Apr 2:

NELSONBremen Mar 11:

AKAROAQueen Elizabeth Feb 23:Oosterdam Feb 24: Mar 25: Apr 4:Radiance of the Seas Feb 26: Apr 5:Sun Princess Feb 26: Mar 12:Diamond Princess Feb 27:Sea Princess Mar 1:Marina Mar 4, 24:Arcadia Mar 5:Carnival Spirit Mar 6:Dawn Princess Mar 11, 24:Celebrity Solstice Mar 12, 20:Queen Mary 2 Mar 14:Pacific Dawn Mar 15:Pacific Pearl Mar 22:

DUNEDINDawn Princess Feb 22: Mar 12, 25:Caledonian Sky Feb 23:Oosterdam Feb 24: Mar 24: Apr 5:Radiance of the Seas Feb 25: Apr 4:Voyager of the Seas Feb 27:Sun Princess Feb 27: Mar 13:Diamond Princess Feb 28:Sea Princess Mar 2:Arcadia Mar 4:Carnival Spirit Mar 5:Celebrity Solstice Mar 11, 21:Pacific Dawn Mar 14:Bremen Mar 18:Pacific Pearl Mar 21:Europa Mar 23:

WELLINGTONDiamond Princess Feb 19, 26:Caledonian Sky Feb 20:Queen Elizabeth Feb 22:Oosterdam Feb 22: Mar 26: Apr 3:Carnival Spirit Feb 22: Mar 7:Pacific Pearl Feb 23:Dawn Princess Feb 24: Mar 10:Costa Deliziosa Feb25: Sun Princess Feb 25: Mar 11:Radiance of the Seas Feb 27: Apr 6, 23:Sea Princess Feb 28:Marina Mar 3, 25:Arcadia Mar 6:Queen Mary 2 Mar 13:Celebrity Solstice Mar 13, 19:Bremen Mar 13:

Pacific Dawn Mar 16: PICTONDiamond Princess Feb 18, 25: Seabourn Odyssey Feb 19:Asuka II Feb 22:Pacific Pearl Mar 23:Radiance of the Seas Apr 22:

TAURANGAOosterdam Feb 18: Mar 28: Apr 1:Diamond Princess Feb 21, 23;Seabourn Odyssey Feb 22:Sun Princess Feb 23: Mar 9:Voyager of the Seas Feb 24:Carnival Spirit Feb 24: Mar 9:Marina Feb 25, 28: Mar 27:Dawn Princess Feb 26: Mar 8, 21:Sea Princess Feb 26:Radiance of the Seas Mar 1:Celebrity Solstice Mar 15, 17: Bremen Mar 17:Pacific Dawn Mar 18:Ocean Princess Mar 25:

NEW CALEDONIA

NOUMEAMarina Feb 20:Arcadia Feb 23:Pacific Dawn Feb 25: Mar 4, 25: Apr 8, 15, 22:Pacific Jewel Mar 7, 21:Rhapsody of the Seas Mar 8: Apr 6, 21, 28:Oosterdam Mar 13: Apr 16:Pacific Pearl Mar 14, 30: Apr 9:Sun Princess Mar 20:Carnival Spirit Mar 24: Apr 7, 18, 24: Celebrity Solstice Apr 11:

Other Ships:Orion - Cruising various locations – Kimberleys, Papua New Guinea, Melanesian & Solomon Islands, Australian Coast, Antarctica, New Zealand Reef Endeavour – The Fiji Islands – year around cruisesTrue North – Cruising the Kimberly area, Top End, Papua New Guinea and SydneyOceanic Discoverer/Coral Princess - Cruising various locations- Australia/New Zealand/New Caledonia/Papua New GuineaMurray Princess - Cruising the Murray River throughout the yearBlue Lagoon Cruises – Ships cruising Fijian Islands

(Data shown, sourced from cruise line schedules, port schedules and brochures, is believed to be correct at time of printing – schedules can change at short notice and readers should check dates prior to arriving at the locations to see ships- some ships will visit other locations and dates for some ships are incomplete) ( Dunedin = Port Chalmers.)

54

FE

BR

UA

RY

2

01

3