Our CruiseOne Travel Agency Seeing Spike in River Cruise Sales

Viking River Cruises

 River cruising continues to rise in popularity across both the United States and abroad, especially among travelers seeking more intimate experiences to more exotic locales. Despite the myth that river cruising is only for the retired set (and it is a myth), river cruising is emerging as a popular vacation for younger travelers who want to immerse themselves in the culture of a region while enjoying the creature comforts of home. This is such an incredible way to discover a region as you can literally just step off your ship right into their world.

With a variety of innovations - from excursions to onboard amenities river cruising is a segment of the travel and tourism industry that can now offer something for everyone.  Here are our three reasons why a river cruise should be a must on every traveler's bucket list: 

Nile River

 1. Exotic Destinations. Getting up close and personal with Egypt and the enchantment of Cleopatra on the Nile or taking in the charm of the Mississippi are all possible on todays' river cruises. AmaWaterways has added more interesting locations with cruises in Namibia, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia. Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is also even offering travelers a unique journey through Italy's Po River, beginning in 2013. These destinations open up access to places unreachable by large ships and create an intimate connection with the cities they visit.  The best part about river cruising is the views - most ships are 100% balcony staterooms, including those aboard Uniworld's Douro Spirit or Avalon's Victoria Jenna.

 
2. Experiential Cruises. River guests can enjoy trips tailored to their tastes with programs just for them. Food and wine aficionados should consider the `Culinary Delights' itinerary from AmaWaterways. Once aboard, guests can work with a local chef to plan menus for their entire voyage, shop in local markets for ingredients and prepare their own meals!

Guests seeking more adventure can sign-up for bike tours that let you travel alongside the ship from port to port, taking in the scenery as you go. Tech-savvy travelers who need to stay connected will now have access to onboard Wi-Fi and those looking to stay fit will love the fact that most river vessels now have onboard gyms.




















3. More Choices. As river cruising demand continues to boom, more ships and destinations are being added for cruisers to experience. Avalon and Viking, for example, are both expecting significant capacity increases in their fleets for the 2013 season. Viking will add six new longships in 2013 and Avalon will introduce two additional ships. Cruisers are also finding more choices while aboard from customized dining experiences on and off the ship, to specialized excursions.


 River cruising continues to highlight the destinations it serves by immersing cruisers in the culture. Whether it is because of the out-of-the-box destinations, local flair or intimate venues, more travelers are opting for river cruises to truly escape.


As innovation shapes the industry and more people see the value in river cruising,
finding the right ship - and itinerary - can be tricky.

A professional travel agent can step in and help navigate the options, offering the right choice for your personality, interests and budget. 

For more information, give us a call so we can make your river cruise dream come true!  866.566.6677 or e-mail us at nreal@cruiseone.com

Carnival Breeze Deployment

Carnival Breeze to Debut in June 2012 with 12 Day Europe Cruises Then Reposition to Miami for Year-Round Six-Eight Day Caribbean Voyages

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Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the 130,000-ton Carnival Breeze, will enter service in June 2012 debuting with a summer schedule of 12-day Mediterranean voyages before repositioning to Miami in November for year-round six- and eight-day Caribbean departures. 

As Carnival’s newest “Fun Ship,” Carnival Breeze will offer a host of exciting innovations, including expansive top-deck areas such as WaterWorks, an aqua park with exhilarating water slides and other attractions; SportSquare, an open-air recreation complex with a ropes course, mini-golf, and outdoor fitness area; The Lanai, a wraparound promenade with whirlpools extending over the ship’s sides, and a 270-square-foot poolside LED screen displaying movies, and other programming.

In a nod to its upcoming Caribbean deployment, Carnival Breeze will also feature the RedFrog Pub, a lively spot for tasty island-inspired snacks and drinks, including its own private label beer.  Other dining highlights will include Cucina del Capitano, a family-style Italian restaurant that brings the heritage of Carnival’s captains to the table, along with a casual two-level poolside eatery, and a classic American-style steakhouse. 

Dedicated play areas for children, ’tweens and teens, as well as a two-level health and wellness center, and a wide variety of accommodation options will be available, as well.  
Carnival Breeze will also introduce colorful Caribbean-inspired interiors that take their cue from the region’s cool island breezes and warm tropical sunsets. Created by Germany-based Partner Ship Design, this striking new tropical design theme will be carried out in the ship’s public spaces, as well as staterooms which will offer a combination of bright colors and soothing pastel hues, with iconic images of palm trees and other island-inspired elements adorning hallway corridors. 
           
“Not only will Carnival Breeze introduce exciting new features and a highly creative island-inspired interior design that pays homage to the world’s most popular cruising region, we’ve put together itineraries that provide our guests with the opportunity to visit a huge array of stunning ports of call throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO.

Exciting 12-Day Mediterranean Cruises

Carnival Breeze will kick off its inaugural 2012 season with a special 12-day maiden voyage that will depart Venice on June 3, and arrive in Barcelona June 15, 2012.  Ports of call on this one-time voyage include Dubrovnik, Croatia; Athens, Greece; Izmir, Turkey; Messina (Sicily), Olbia (Sardinia),  Rome (Civitavecchia), and Livorno (Florence & Pisa), Italy; Monaco, Monte Carlo; and Marseilles, France.

Carnival Breeze will then commence a summer schedule of 12-day Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona, one of Europe’s most stunning and historic cities. The program will run from June 15 through October 25, 2012 (with the exception of the Aug. 26, 2012, voyage which will sail from Venice). 

The 12-day Mediterranean cruises include stops at Marseilles or Monaco; Livorno; Naples; Dubrovnik; Venice; Civitavecchia (Rome), and Messina (the June 15 and September 7 departures add a stop in Palma de Mallorca, Spain; while the Aug. 14 and 26 voyages also visit Olbia (Sardinia), Italy.  Select voyages also overnight in Venice or Rome (Civitavecchia).  
Each of these ports offer a diverse array of sightseeing experiences, from world-class museums, shops and restaurants to famous historical landmarks, unique architecture and cultural opportunities not found anywhere else in the world.

Value-Packed 15-Day Trans-Atlantic Crossing   
Following its European schedule, Carnival Breeze will sail on a 15-day trans-Atlantic crossing departing Barcelona November 6, arriving in Miami on November 21, 2012. 

Ports of call on this voyage will include Palma de Mallorca and Malaga, Spain; Las Palmas, Canary Islands; Antigua and St. Maarten.

The combination of popular European and Caribbean ports with multiple sea days and a host of exciting and unique on-board events and activities will make this transatlantic crossing truly an unforgettable experience.

Convenient Six-Day Caribbean Schedule from Miami 
As part of its innovative Miami-based cruise schedule, Carnival Breeze will offer a year-round three-port, six-day cruise program operating Sundays-Saturdays beginning December 2, 2012.   

This schedule will be offered on alternating weeks and will feature visits to three popular ports of call: Grand Turk, B.W.I.; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and Nassau, The Bahamas.

Although uniquely different, each of these destinations feature beautiful white-sand beaches, excellent shopping, dining and sightseeing experiences, and a wide variety of water sports opportunities, along with a laid-back island ambiance that embodies the essence of a Caribbean cruise.

Port-Intensive Eight-Day Itineraries From Miami


Each of the Carnival Breeze’s eight-day cruises from Miami will provide guests with ample opportunities to sample the best that the Caribbean has to offer, from sunning and relaxing on gorgeous beaches to shopping for duty-free bargains and savoring delectable island cuisine.
The Saturday-to-Sunday rotation is particularly attractive as it maximizes consumers’ vacation time, with eight full days of cruising across two weekends.

The schedule includes an eight-day southern Caribbean itinerary that will feature Grand Turk, La Romana (Dominican Republic), Curacao, and Aruba, along with an eight-day eastern Caribbean route visiting St. Thomas/St. John, Antigua, Tortola and Nassau.

Combined with its six-day cruises, Carnival Breeze guests are offered unprecedented opportunities to visit a diversity of sunny, tropical Caribbean’s destinations, with nearly a dozen ports of call featured among the various itineraries.

For more information and booking please see www.realworldtravels.com or call 866.566.6677.Expanding upon its role as the leader in Caribbean cruising, Carnival Breeze will offer two distinctly different four-port, eight-day itineraries year-round from the Port of Miami operating Saturday-Sunday beginning November 24, 2012.

Norwegian Epic Huge One Day Sale

Monday, March 5th ONLY.. 

From CruiseOne ONLY.....

$250 onboard credit plus low pricing.

We sailed the Norwegian Epic last year and this is a Ship all to it's own.  She has entertainment options like Blue Man Group,  a Cirque Dinner Show with amazing acrobats, a dueling Piano Bar, a comedy club, a Blues Club, a couple of night clubs, the Casino, an incredible Spa, Suites to die for...  I will post a slide show of 17030, the deluxe owners suite we enjoyed for our week onboard...

Nickelodeon for the Kids along with 3 crazy water slides on the pool deck..

Did I mention the restaurants?

• From traditional fine dining to endless buffets with custom-order action stations, there is a host of delicious options included in your cruise fare. And for a cover charge, you’ll also have access to a world of possibilities including gourmet French, Japanese Teppanyaki, a traditional steakhouse and more – over 20 different dining options in all.

This is a great offer before she leaves for Europe.  There are even deals on the TransAtlantic Crossing.

This is a Deluxe Owner Suite  17030

 Here are some Ship Photos


Please call us at 866.566.6677  or visit our website at http://www.realworldtravels.com/

Celebrity Solstice Heads to Alaska & other new X Deployment News.

I realize this was announced on Wednesday and it's Friday already.  I apologize for not being on the ball posting this as I know many of us have been waiting on Celebrities 2013 Deployment News and especially wondering if the Solstice was going to be sailing Alaska next summer as after all, she already was spending our winter Down Under..

I so adored sailing on this ship in Europe last year that the Solstice Class is my new personal favorite among mainstream big ship Cruise experiences.  Especially for adults but there is plenty for the family as well.  Kids I spoke with on board were really enjoy the ship and the youth programs.

The British Isles Sailings on the Infinity will also be a treat and grabbed up fast.

Here is the news straight from *Cruise Industry News*....  Bookings will open in early March.  I will post the dates for each.  I also have lists going as on the Royal Princess for those that want to book the early bird rates or want particular staterooms and suites.  We will have group space on these for extra onboard credit so just ask!

Please call or send me your info so we can plan ahead.

Celebrity Cruises today shared a sneak preview of its itinerary plans for the summer of 2013. Speaking to an audience of travel partners and press in London, Celebrity’s President & CEO Dan Hanrahan revealed that, for the first time, joining Celebrity Eclipse in offering modern luxury vacation experiences from the UK will be the newly ‘Solsticized’ Celebrity Infinity. “Like the reaction to every stunning Solstice Class ship, the response to Celebrity Eclipse from our guests and travel partners has been extremely rewarding, ever since it debuted in Southampton in 2010,” said Celebrity’s President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. “Our decision to expand our European vacation options from the UK on our newly Solsticized Celebrity Infinity is in direct response to increased demand for more of the modern luxury holidays that only Celebrity can provide, as validated by the expanding host of honors our brand continues to receive.” Celebrity Eclipse  will continue to offer sailings from Southampton in the spring and summer of 2013, while Celebrity Infinity – which emerged in December 2011 from Celebrity’s ambitious, four-ship, $140-million Solsticizing investment – will present enticing new British Isles and Fjords sailings from Harwich, England. Bigger and better, with the most and newest ships in Europe The summer of 2013 will mark Celebrity’s biggest season ever in Europe, with Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Silhouette, and Celebrity Reflection – which debuts in October of this year – all joining Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Infinity in offering the broadest array of modern luxury cruises and cruisetours on the newest fleet of ships in the region. Celebrity Solstice to ‘heat things up’ in Alaska Celebrity Solstice  will become the first of its class to offer vacations in Alaska in the summer of 2013, joining Celebrity Century and Celebrity Millennium in pairing Celebrity’s chic style and design, signature cuisine, exciting activities and extraordinary service with the region’s breathtaking, inspiring scenery. “Celebrity Solstice is the ideal platform for a genuine modern luxury vacation in the gorgeous state of Alaska,” said Hanrahan. “The ship’s sheer beauty will perfectly complement the region’s incredible scenery. And with 85 percent veranda accommodations, our guests will have that many more opportunities to take in the endlessly appealing views, combined with our unparalleled onboard experience and service provided by the best group of hospitality professionals in the world.” Rounding out Celebrity’s 2013 summer season Celebrity Summit, which just this month became the third in Celebrity’s Millennium Class fleet to complete the brand’s noted Solsticizing initiative – incorporating a host of guest-favorite venues and experiences from the Solstice Class onto the Millennium Class – will once again offer Celebrity’s popular Bermuda vacation experiences from the Northeast. The intimate, 96-guest Celebrity Xpedition will continue to offer the once-in-a-lifetime vacation experiences the brand has offered year-round since 2004 in the enchanting Galapagos Islands. Complete details of Celebrity’s summer 2013 itineraries – including the full slate of featured destinations, cruisetours and dates of departure – will be announced when the first of the series opens for booking in early March. The line will continue to present special booking options exclusively for the valued members of its Captain’s Club loyalty program.

Celebrity Cruises today shared a sneak preview of its itinerary plans for the summer of 2013. Speaking to an audience of travel partners and press in London, Celebrity’s President & CEO Dan Hanrahan revealed that, for the first time, joining Celebrity Eclipse in offering modern luxury vacation experiences from the UK will be the newly ‘Solsticized’ Celebrity Infinity.

“Like the reaction to every stunning Solstice Class ship, the response to Celebrity Eclipse from our guests and travel partners has been extremely rewarding, ever since it debuted in Southampton in 2010,” said Celebrity’s President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. “Our decision to expand our European vacation options from the UK on our newly Solsticized Celebrity Infinity is in direct response to increased demand for more of the modern luxury holidays that only Celebrity can provide, as validated by the expanding host of honors our brand continues to receive.”

Bigger and better, with the most and newest ships in Europe

Celebrity Eclipse  will continue to offer sailings from Southampton in the spring and summer of 2013, while Celebrity Infinity – which emerged in December 2011 from Celebrity’s ambitious, four-ship, $140-million Solsticizing investment – will present enticing new British Isles and Fjords sailings from Harwich, England.

The summer of 2013 will mark Celebrity’s biggest season ever in Europe, with Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Silhouette, and Celebrity Reflection – which debuts in October of this year – all joining Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Infinity in offering the broadest array of modern luxury cruises and cruisetours on the newest fleet of ships in the region.

Celebrity Solstice to ‘heat things up’ in Alaska



Observation Lounge perfect for Glacier Viewing by Sutanto



Celebrity Solstice  will become the first of its class to offer vacations in Alaska in the summer of 2013, joining Celebrity Century and Celebrity Millennium in pairing Celebrity’s chic style and design, signature cuisine, exciting activities and extraordinary service with the region’s breathtaking, inspiring scenery.

“Celebrity Solstice is the ideal platform for a genuine modern luxury vacation in the gorgeous state of Alaska,” said Hanrahan. “The ship’s sheer beauty will perfectly complement the region’s incredible scenery. And with 85 percent veranda accommodations, our guests will have that many more opportunities to take in the endlessly appealing views, combined with our unparalleled onboard experience and service provided by the best group of hospitality professionals in the world.” 

Rounding out Celebrity’s 2013 summer season

Celebrity Summit, which just this month became the third in Celebrity’s Millennium Class fleet to complete the brand’s noted Solsticizing initiative – incorporating a host of guest-favorite venues and experiences from the Solstice Class onto the Millennium Class – will once again offer Celebrity’s popular Bermuda vacation experiences from the Northeast.

The intimate, 96-guest Celebrity Xpedition will continue to offer the once-in-a-lifetime vacation experiences the brand has offered year-round since 2004 in the enchanting Galapagos Islands.

Complete details of Celebrity’s summer 2013 itineraries – including the full slate of featured destinations, cruisetours and dates of departure – will be announced when the first of the series opens for booking in early March. The line will continue to present special booking options exclusively for the valued members of its Captain’s Club loyalty program

ACT Fast offers for Carnival Exotic itineraries.. Past Guests

I want to make just a quick note here for those that may be wanting to do a more exotic itinerary at a lower cost..  If you are a Carnival Past Guest they are making these offers as they move the Splendor away from the West Coast... *BooHoo* , Through South America, around the Horn and onto other homeports as well as Transatlantic and the Baltics. 

3 South American Itineraries

• 17 Day South America Explorer In this cruise you will be able to see unbelievable natural sights as they cross the equator that only South America has to offer. You will have the option to visit the Galapagos, a natural wonder of isolated islands which is also a sanctuary of wildlife. You will also have the option to see Machu Picchu, the capital of the ancient Incan empire. Other amazing things you will see in this cruise includes Cabo San Lucas, the picturesque Hautulco, coffee plantations in Guatemala and two Chilean gems, Arica and Santiago.

• 13 Day Fjords, Glaciers, & Patagonia In this cruise you will see the breathtaking natural sights of the Chilean Fjords and the Darwin Channel as they cruise the most Southern point of our planet through Cape Horn. In addition to this wonderful contact with nature, you will also experience the European flavor of Montevideo and Buenos Aires, two beautiful cities which will offer you an unforgettable culinary experience.

• 18 Day Brazilian & Caribbean Splendor

Or combine all three for a total South American Experience of a lifetime!

In this cruise your guest will enjoy the best Brazil has to offer. You will experience Rio de Janeiro, with all its vibrant activity, music, beautiful beaches and delicious foods and drinks. They will have a chance to visit other Brazilian gems such as Salvador, Recife and Fortaleza, which will offer you beautiful sites and contact with nature. Also on this cruise you will experience two beautiful Caribbean islands, Grand Turk and Barbados. You will have the chance to visit these beautiful beaches and engage in fun activities with the Caribbean as the back drop. This amazing trip will end in New York, a legendary city that offers plenty of excitement for all

• Carnival Past Guest offer...  Now through February 20, 2012 Carnival is offering exclusive past guest savings of up to 20% PLUS a two category upgrade on South America, Europe AND Transatlantic sailings!

OFFER DETAILS:
Early Saver rates (save up to 20%) + 2 category upgrade available to past guests
BOOKING WINDOW:
2/9/12 - 2/20/12
VALID SAILING:
Splendor and Miracle South America and Panama Canal: available on 2/9/12
Legend Europe: available on 2/14/12
Destiny Transatlantic: available on 2/16/12

There are reduced deposits and

Please call us for Onboard Credit as well as any other goodies we can score for you!

Let us Pay your Deposit !!!

Good for cruises sailing between June 8, 2012 and February 28, 2013.
Cruises that are booked by February 29, 2012 are eligible.

Up to $500.00

Please visit our WebSite for complete details or call 866.566.6677

This is combinable will all other offers including an extra $100 OBC if you are sailing to Europe this year on select CruiseLines.

What is Changing in the Cruise Industry Right now and where should you look to sail in 2012 ??

If you watch the trends you can get some amazing deals.  Cruising can be a bit like playing the stock market.  Will the fares go up?  Go down?  If I buy now do I have price protection if they do drop, etc, etc.

Basically everything that has to do with what a cabin on a ship will cost you at any given moment all comes down to capacity and how well they are doing at selling the cabins on that particular ship.  So of course that has to do with how many berths are in a certain area of the world competing for your business.

And for those of you who thing that the Cruise Lines are hurting or are sailing with empty berths are wrong.  Ships do now sail less that full capacity, at least not very often.  They will do everything they can to make certain that all the spaces that can hold bodies, do......  What guests spend onboard is more important in some instances that what you spend on your cabin.

It stands to reason that the more luxury type, truly all inclusive product seems pricey up front but you generally can easily walk off the ship with no bill as you paid for everything up front.

Have you ever noticed that the $399 cruise deal that you got wasn't such a great deal when you were faced with charges for everything you wanted to do on the ship and your bank account was suddenly less than it was when you walked on the ship?

Here at Real World Travel and Cruise One we dedicate ourselves to following the trends and knowing what is going on in the world with ship movement and where the deals are likely to strike.  Where it is best to travel right now, money wise, weather wise, crowd wise, etc.

Here is an article I found that is talking about the future and what you can expect and right now if you can get away to Europe, I highly recommend you do so before the end of the season and even next year.  There will still be plenty of ships over there.  Alaska is a great deal right now for the end of the summer. 

Especially the more up market lines are offering lots of incentives unheard of.  And if you are planning a big trip for 2012 or 2013 Australia is a great place to be looking.  I am looking at it myself.  Either there or Asia for 2012.  And of course I would love to have you join me.  I will announce that soon.  This is good reading....

Nancy

Next Generation Cruise Ships Might Not Be the Best

By Paul Motter

Published June 24, 2011 | FOXBusiness

A fundamental change is happening in the cruise industry right now that could affect cruise travelers. 

The major lines are still building new ships, but the long-standing belief that the newest ships are always the best might no longer be true. The next wave of cruise ships set to arrive in 2012 and 2013 will be optimized for the new economic reality.

Many of us thought the economy was fundamentally sound until late 2008 and the cruise industry was no different, believing any setback would be short term. Clearly they were all wrong.

The cruise industry is more pliable than many travel businesses, but cruise lines still have to plan several years in advance to design and build new ships. Between 2000 and 2006, several cruise lines designed and hired shipyards to construct the biggest, most elaborate ships ever including the Celebrity Solstice, Marina by Oceania, Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas, Holland America's Eurodam, Silversea’s Silver Spirit, Seabourn Odyssey and Disney Dream. This new generation was capped by the two largest and most impressive cruise ships ever, sister ships Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas from Royal Caribbean.

These new ships were not only much larger than previous ones, but the added room was generously allocated to provide more space per passenger - rather than crowding more people into each vessel. These ships were designed to attract a constantly-growing and financially-stable cruise audience--a group the cruise lines assumed they had.

Ironically, the most ambitious ships of this generation were placed on order around 2005, but the building process takes years, and the first of the new breed was delivered in late 2008--just after the economy tanked.

Even more critical, some lines ordered multiple ships of the same design; the shipyard's bid is based on a commitment to build between two and five of each vessel. For example, the original Celebrity Solstice order was for three identical ships, with an option for two more. The deadline to exercise the option for the final two ships came when the recession was still thought to be just a blip. The option to build the fourth and fifth ships was taken, bringing even more high-quality tonnage online at a time when the economy continued to slip.

Here is the big picture: We have just witnessed the introduction of dozens of new ships that are frankly too good for the current economy. They should command higher cruise fares than they are getting, but cruise lines can only set prices that the market will bear. The people who are fortunate enough to afford to cruise right now are finding bargains everywhere.

Changes in Future Ships

The wave of ships just introduced is the greatest generation, because they were conceived during the optimistic pre-2008 economy. But don't expect to see grand ships like these hitting the waters in the coming years. 

A new generation of ships based on the “new reality” is already on order from NCL, Princess and Royal Caribbean. As you might expect, these new ships will carry far more passengers per square foot in order to optimize fuel efficiency and return on investment per passenger.

Consider the Celebrity Solstice, designed in 2005 as a 128,000-ton ship (at the large end of the scale for cruise ships) that carries a mere 2,850 passenger berths. (Cruise ship "tonnage," by the way, is a measure of a vessel's interior space, not its weight.) This ship was delivered in November 2008. Compare this to the new ships ordered for delivery in 2012 and beyond.

But things have changed. NCL has two ships on order, “Project Breakaway” vessels slated for delivery in 2012 and 2013. These ships will have 4,000 passenger berths within 144,000 tons. This is about 30% more passenger capacity for a ship that is only about 11% larger. A far cry from Celebrity Solstice's space offering. In fact, when you consider third and fourth passengers in cabins, the total capacity for Project Breakaway ships could be far higher than 4,000.

The new Royal Caribbean order, “Project Sunshine,” calls for a 158,000-ton ship that will hold 4,100 passenger berths. Compare it to another Royal Caribbean ship of a similar size--Freedom of the Seas--which is smaller at 160,000 gross tons, but only carrying 3,634 passengers. 

The new Princess ships (2013) will come in at 141,000 tons and carry 3,600 passenger berths. Compare this to the line's Diamond Princess class of ships at 116,000 tons and a passenger capacity of 2,670.

What Does This Mean to You?

2009 was the first year in recent history when no new ships designs were ordered by major cruise lines. They already had too much new capacity coming online and were preoccupied with figuring out where to deploy and how to price these ships.

During the last two years, we have even seen a few bursting price bubbles when the cruise lines put too many ships in a specific region that subsequently suffered from lower-than-expected demand.

In 2009, for instance, cruises to Mexico were incredible bargains. There were twice as many staterooms in that market as there are now, but demand for those cruises evaporated almost overnight.

 In 2010, Alaska cruises were also going for deep discounts. This summer, in an effort to reduce their exposure to Alaska, more cruise lines positioned ships in the Mediterranean Sea, but now that region is suffering from overcapacity and reduced demand.

Many cruise lines are banking on Australia for 2012 and 2013, drawn by the strong currency (just as they were drawn to Europe for the stronger euro in 2010). But the number of ships going to Australia could easily outstrip demand, and 2013 could be the best time yet to cruise in Australia.

While the cruise lines will inevitably market the forthcoming cruise ships most ardently, in fact the “greatest generation” of ships is already here. For decades, the rule of ship selection had been “newer is better,” but with this coming generation of new cruise ships starting in 2012 and 2013, that will no longer be true. The best ships will still be those of the 2008 – 2011 vintage – and they could become relative bargains.


Read more: http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2011/06/24/next-generation-cruise-ships-might-not-be-best/#ixzz1QPYsRqy9

Azamara announces new Golf, Culinary, Spa program..... something for everyone

<><><><> <> <><><><> AZAMARA TEES UP AT THE WORLD'S FINEST COURSES Azamara Club Cruises® is taking destination immersion a step further with our new Azamara Club Golf Cruises in partnership with PerryGolf. These unique and exclusive packages let guests play exquisite, championship-caliber golf courses in Asia and Europe while traveling in the comfort and style of Azamara Journey® or Quest®. Let Azamara coordinate tee times, cart rentals, luxury transfers to the course, range time, golf balls, club storage and gratuities at each course as well as plan special cocktail parties and socials for golfers. Play a round on the world's dream courses knowing that Azamara's personal touch service is taking care of you. I have group space that offers extra amenities on these sailings as well as the lowest pricing and custom planning.  I have personal experience sailing with Azamara and they are at the top of my list right now!   Please contact me for details.

EACH PACKAGE INCLUDES: •   Pre-voyage golf program with overnight in specified hotel •   Luxury, air-conditioned transfers to and from golf courses •   Two group dinners, one in a specialty restaurant •   Bag and club handling and storage •   Selected special event for non-golfers such as the Spa Experience, culinary classes and wine tastings •   Greens fees, confirmed tee times, carts or pull carts •   Caddies on request at additional cost •   Golfers socials, cocktail parties and Hors d'oeuvres •   Standard beverage package for duration of the voyage •   Full-time Azamara Golf Manager •   Casual tournaments with awards and prizes for all participants AZAMARA JOURNEY® March 28, 2011 | 14 Nights | Hong Kong, China - Singapore March 28 - Olazabal Course, Hong Kong, China March 29 - Faldo Course, Hong Kong, China April 1 - The Montgomerie Links, Hue (Danag), Vietnam April 3 - Vietnam Golf & Country Club, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam April 7 - Thai Country Club, Bangkok, Thailand April 9 - Santiburi Country Club, Ko Samui, Thailand Voyage Rate $2,999 | Golf Land Package Rate: Golfer $3,798 | Non-Golfer $1,329 AZAMARA QUEST® May 15, 2011 | 11 Nights | Barcelona, Spain - Nice, France May 15 - PGA Catalunya, Stadium Course, Barcelona, Spain May 16 - Son Muntaner, Palma, Mallorca, Spain May 19 - Pont Royal, Marseilles, France May 21 - Fregate, Sanaray Sur Mer, France May 23 - Saint Maxime, St. Tropez, France Voyage Rate $2,849 | Golf Land Package Rate: Golfer $2,998 | Non-Golfer $879 May 26, 2011 & May 30, 2011 | 4/5 Nights (9 Combined) | Nice, France - Nice, France/Rome(Civitavecchia), Italy May 26 - Four Seasons Le Chateaux Course, Terre Blanche, France May 28 - Saint Maxime, St. Tropez, France May 30 - Cannes Mougins, Cannes, France May 31 - Rapallo Golf Club, Santa Margherita, Italy June 2 - Cosmopolitan Golf Club, Livorno, Italy Voyage Rate $3,199*/$1,149 | Golf Land Package Rate: Golfer $3,169 | Non-Golfer $898 August 29, 2011 | 10 Nights | Dublin, Ireland - Libson, Portugal August 29 - Portmarnock Golf Club, Dublin Ireland August 30 - Conwy, Holyhead, Wales August 31 - Old Head Golf Links, Cork (Cobh), Ireland September 3 - Medoc (Les Vignes Course), Bordeaux, France September 6 - Ria de Vigo Golf Club, Vigo, Spain Voyage Rate $2,749 | Golf Land Package Rate: Golfer $2,998 | Non-Golfer $848 September 8, 2011 | 9 Nights | Libson, Portugal - Nice, France September 8 - Oitavos Dunes, Cascais (Lisbon), Portugal September 10 - Montecastillo, Seville (Cadiz), Spain September 13 - PGA Catalunya, Stadium Course, Barcelona, Spain September 15 - Barbaroux, Sanaray Sur Mer, France September 16 - Saint Maxime, St. Tropez, France Voyage Rate $2,499 | Golf Land Package Rate: Golfer $2,998 | Non-Golfer $798 September 17, 2011 | 9 Nights | Nice, France - Nice, France September 17 - Four Seasons Le Chateaux Course, Terre Blanche, France September 20 - Pont Royal, Marseilles, France September 21 - Fregate, Sanaray Sur Mer, France September 22 - Saint Maxime, St. Tropez, France Voyage Rate $1,999 | Golf Land Package Rate: Golfer $2,655 | Non-Golfer $798 September 24, 2011 | 10 Nights | Nice, France - Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy September 24 - Royal Mougins, Cannes, France September 25 - Saint Maxime, St. Tropez, France September 26 - Fregate, Sanaray Sur Mer, France September 28 - PGA Catalunya, Stadium Course, Barcelona, Spain September 30 - Sperone, Bonifacio, Corsica Voyage Rate $2,399 | Golf Land Package Rate: Golfer $3,198 | Non-Golfer $940 Rates shown are cruise-only, for Club Interior Staterooms unless noted otherwise *Rate is for Veranda Stateroom and reflects back-to-back savings, Club Interior no longer available

AZAMARA TEES Azamara Club Cruises® is taking destination immersion a step further with our new Azamara Club Golf Cruises in partnership with PerryGolf. These unique and exclusive packages let guests play exquisite, championship-caliber golf courses in Asia and Europe while traveling in the comfort and style of Azamara Journey® or Quest®. Let Azamara coordinate tee times, cart rentals, luxury transfers to the course, range time, golf balls, club storage and gratuities at each course as well as plan special cocktail parties and socials for golfers. Play a round on the world's dream courses knowing that Azamara's personal touch service is taking care of you.

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Experience the Carnival Magic in Europe with us in May 2011 !!!

Magic 9 day Med/Europe May 2011                  

 Want to Go with Us ????
Owners, Joe and Nancy will be onboard !!!

Up to $300 in OBC, past guest rates, early saver, etc...ask for the best price !!!
9 Day Mediterranean (05/1/11)
Port of call Arrival Departure
Venice, Italy  6:00 PM
"Fun Day" at Sea At Sea At Sea
Dubrovnik, Croatia 7:00 AM 7:00 PM
"Fun Day" at Sea At Sea  At Sea
Messina, Italy 7:00 AM 6:00 PM
Naples, Italy 7:00 AM 7:00 PM
Rome (Civitavecchia) Italy 7:00 AM 10:00 PM
Livorno, Italy 7:00 AM 7:00 PM
Montecarlo, Monaco 7:00 AM 2:00 PM
Barcelona, Spain 7:00 AM   
     

We are sailing on the very first, inaugural, as it stands now, sailing and the one and only ONE WAY, 9 night sailing of the 2011 season that the Carnival Magic will do.  This is a one way Venice to Barcelona sailing leaving time on either end of the 9 days to have a day or two in Venice AND Barcelona and still take a 2 week vacation. This is a great way to see the most sought after ports of Europe on a brand new ship with the economical pricing and FUN of Carnival !!!

We have locked in the best available pricing and will be offering Bon Voyage Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries along with $100 OBC. 

This is a limited time offer.  Make your reservations by 1/30/2011.

CULTURE. EXCITEMENT. ROMANCE.

ON SALE NOW.

The Carnival Magic^SM is our newest ship, and she’s primed to take you to some of Europe’s best destinations. And when you book by January 30, 2011, you can take advantage of low rates PLUS up to $300 in onboard credit and free upgrades.

Unpack just once and load up on all that Europe has to offer, including stops in Barcelona, Marseilles, Rome and more.

Check out these great itineraries:

7 day sailings FROM $929

featuring $100 onboard credit per person,
up to $200 per stateroom

9 day sailings FROM $1,029

featuring $125 onboard credit per person,
up to $250 per stateroom

12 day sailings FROM $1,349

featuring $150 onboard credit per person,
up to $300 per stateroom

Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic, will debut with a schedule of seven-, nine- and 12-day Mediterranean cruises operating round-trip from Barcelona from May to October 2011. This marks Carnival’s first full season of Mediterranean cruises in three years, as well as the first time the line has homeported a ship in Barcelona.

To commemorate the line’s return to Europe, for the first time ever Carnival is offering an exclusive pre-sale for past guests from January 19 to January 25, including complimentary two-category upgrades, along with special pricing with rates starting at just $829 per person, based on double occupancy.

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 The 130,000-ton Carnival Magic will offer a host of features popularized on its sister ship Carnival Dream, including a WaterWorks aqua park, a stunning café/live entertainment venue called Ocean Plaza; Serenity adults-only retreat; spacious, modern facilities for children and teens; and a wide range of stateroom categories. Several innovations unique to the Carnival Magic will be announced in the coming months.

Cahill added, “Making the decision to return to Europe is an indicator of our confidence in the increasing willingness of North Americans to travel internationally as we move toward 2011.”
Carnival Magic’s 2011 Mediterranean schedule will encompass three seven-day departures, six nine-day cruises, and eight 12-day voyages round-trip from Barcelona May 10 – October 16, 2011. A special one-time nine-day voyage from Venice to Barcelona will operate May 1-10, 2011.

Each of the three itineraries start and end on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, which reflects consumers’ traditional vacation patterns and provides convenient opportunities for adding a pre- and post-cruise stay.

Seven-day cruises will feature Monte Carlo, Monaco; and Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples and Messina, Italy.  Departure dates include July 3, 10 and 17, 2011.

Nine-day cruises will call at Marseilles, France – the line’s first call at this charming coastal town – followed by Monte Carlo (excluding the August 26 departure); Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, and Messina; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.  Voyages will operate June 3 and 24, August 5 and 26, September 16, and October 7, 2011.

The special nine-day cruise departing May 1 will visit Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia), Livorno; and Monte Carlo.

The 12-day Grand Mediterranean voyages will feature Monte Carlo or Marseilles; Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples; Dubrovnik (excluding the May 22 departure which will visit Palma de Mallorca); Venice (overnight call) and Messina. These voyages will depart May 10 and 22, June 12, July 24, August 14, September 4 and 25, and October 16, 2011.

On the Carnival Magic’s Mediterranean cruises, guests can sample the region’s renowned cuisine, experience unique sightseeing opportunities, view stunning architecture and visit centuries-old historical landmarks and museums.

All three itineraries will operate round-trip from Barcelona, a bustling, cosmopolitan city whose modern cruise terminal is considered one of the finest in Europe. 

As the line’s newest ship, Carnival Magic will offer a host of on-board amenities and facilities, including Ocean Plaza, an indoor/outdoor café and live entertainment venue with full bar service, a patisserie and a dance floor; Serenity, an exclusive adults-only retreat offering magnificent sea views; and The Lanai, a wrap-around promenade encircling the ship with cantilevered whirlpools that will extend over the ship’s sides.

Carnival Magic will also build upon the line’s distinction as the family cruise leader, with dedicated facilities and programming for children in three age groups – Camp Carnival (2-11), Circle “C” (12-14) and Club O2 (15-17) – along with a miniature golf course and an expansive WaterWorks aqua park with multiple water slides and other features.

Extensive formal and casual dining options, including two two-level main dining rooms, an expansive poolside Lido restaurant, an elegant steakhouse serving U.S.D.A. prime dry-aged beef, a sushi bar, and complimentary 24-hour stateroom service, will also be available.
High-tech features aboard the Carnival Magic will include the Fun Hub, a comprehensive intranet portal and shipboard social network, along with ship-wide Wi-Fi access. Health-conscious guests will enjoy a 23,750-square-foot Cloud 9 Spa featuring a thalassotherapy pool, thermal suite and elaborate spa and gymnasium facilities.

Carnival Magic will also feature 1,845 staterooms – the most ever on a Carnival ship – and will offer a wide range of accommodation categories.  These include the affordable cove balconies, located on Deck 2 and closer to the water line, and a wide range of staterooms including deluxe ocean views with two-bathrooms, some of which feature five berths.


Contact us at 307.278.9663 or NReal@cruiseone.com
http://www.nreal.cruiseone.com/

Need to rent a car in Europe?

This is a great program for those with long term stays in Europe.  They also offer short term rentals.
Call us for details.

Auto Europe is offering savings for long-term car rentals, 17 days or longer, with its Buy Back Program featuring over 19 factory new Peugeot models. “For any traveler staying for longer than two weeks in Europe, such as with a villa rental or extended stay, a Buy Back is the most practical way to save on your car rental,”said Eric Ledroux, Auto Europe’s president.



The program includes new vehicle models and equipment that increase fuel savings and enhance the driving experience, Auto Europe says. Features include new automatic gearboxes similar to a Tiptronic automatic transmission that can save 8 percent on fuel versus a full automatic transmission and 4 percent fuel savings versus a manual gear transmission. The gearboxes are also better rated for anti pollution records with lower CO2 emissions, Auto Europe says.



Rates begin at $39 per day. The benefits of a Peugeot Buy Back include rates that are tax free with non-deductible and fully comprehensive insurance, the ability to travel into most former Eastern Bloc countries with no additional fees, unlimited mileage, 24 hour road side assistance and delivery can be arranged at most major airports and cities throughout Europe, according to Auto Europe.



In addition, minimum rental age is 18 with no maximum age limits. The factory new vehicles with zero mileage can be delivered to select cities throughout France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Germany, Portugal, the United Kingdom and Switzerland.



Auto Europe is also offering free delivery and collection outside of France on select models for reservations now through December 31 on 45 days or longer contracts that end in 2011.



The sample rate shown is a daily rate based upon a 45-day lease of the four-door, four passenger Peugeot 308 premium, manual transmission for deliveries in Paris. Rate subject to change and additional restrictions may apply.

Auto Europe services over 8,000 car rental locations in 130 countries worldwide. In addition, through their tour division, FlyInternational.com they offer scheduled airfare to Europe with over thirty carriers and service three-, four- and five-star worldwide hotels.

Carnival Unveils Magic Details

Although a Carnival Cruise might not be everyone's cup of tea I am very excited about the upcoming Magic cruise that we are planning in May going to all the most popular ports in the Mediterranean.  The best part of our 9 day itinerary and one of the driving reasons I chose it was that it begins in Venice and ends in Barcelona giving us time to spend a day or three on either or both ends and explore those locations a bit more than a one day port visit.  Add a spanking brand new ship smell.. great ports, fantastic spa for tired feet and bodies, yummy food and really good entertainment...  I am there!

Having said that, here is the latest news on the Carnival Magic build.

I mean, how fun does THAT look !!!

If you would like to join us, check the tab at the top of the blog for info.  We do have very special EXCLUSIVE SMALL GROUP TOURS PLANNED IN MOST PORTS.  6-8 people

An artist's rendering of the Twister slide at WaterWorks park

With 249 days until its newest "Fun Ship," the 130,000-ton Carnival Magic, sets sail, Carnival Cruise Lines is revealing a peek through the porthole at some of the ship's unique spaces and features.

Special amenities include Carnival's first-ever pub (featuring its own private label beer), an authentic trattoria that brings the heritage of Carnival's Italian captains to the table, an expansive outdoor sports complex that features the first-ever ropes course and outdoor weight-lifting area on a cruise ship, and cruising's first gargantuan water dump bucket, to name a few.

Here's some details about the new features:

RedFrog Pub— The RedFrog Pub offers a Caribbean vibe with island-inspired snacks and drinks, including ThirstyFrog Red, a private-label draught beer brewed especially for Carnival Magic. Located on Promenade Deck 5, the 100-seat indoor/outdoor pub's fare includes Bahamian conch salad, grouper fingers, firecracker Jamaican chicken wings, and other Caribbean favorites. RedFrog Pub will also offer tastings of top-rated rums of the Caribbean and a collection of the region's best beers.

Cucina del Capitano ("The Captain's Kitchen")— An homage to Carnival's rich Italian lineage— all of the line's captains are Italian and many Carnival ships, including Carnival Magic, are built in Italy— Cucina del Capitano is a dinner-time option with made-to-order Italian favorites. Guests can dine on hand-made pastas, risotto and fresh-from-the-oven Italian specialties (many served family style) complemented by a wine list specializing in Italian vintages. Many of the dishes and recipes were hand-selected by Carnival's captains. Dinner carries a nominal fee. During the day, the space is utilized as a casual made-to-order pasta bar with items offered on a complimentary basis.

SportsSquare— Taking Carnival's outdoor recreation areas to a new level is SportsSquare, which features the cruise industry's first ropes course where guests can traverse across nets suspended above Spa Deck 12. Surrounded by an eight-mile jogging track, the SportsSquare complex includes the first outdoor weightlifting area on a cruise ship, along with Carnival's first two-level miniature golf course, a Vita exercise course, a lighted multi-purpose court for basketball, volleyball and soccer, along with ping pong and foosball tables. A full bar with a large flat-screen display is available for those who just want to relax and check out the sports action in the area or on TV. Carnival Magic's other top-deck amenities include the WaterWorks aqua park and its "Twister" spiral water slide, as well as the new Aqua Play splash park designed for youngsters and their families, featuring a gigantic, 500-gallon "dump bucket" and a host of features.

Expansive Family-Friendly Spaces— Carnival Magic offers more than 19,000 square feet of space catering to kids and families, including dedicated spaces for children (Camp Carnival), 'tweens (Circle "C") and teens (Club O2), with organized activities and enthusiastic counselors for each group.

Serenity— For some adult-only "me" time, Serenity offers chaise lounges and chairs, hammocks, umbrellas and two jumbo-sized whirlpools, along with full bar service specializing in frothy, icy concoctions.

Cloud 9 Spa— Guests in the mood for a workout or some personal pampering can visit Cloud 9 Spa to soak in the thalassotherapy pool or sit in the thermal suite.

Stateroom Innovations— With 1,845 staterooms, Carnival Magic offers an array of accommodation types, including two-bathroom/five-berth cabins and connecting staterooms that hold particular appeal to families; cove balcony cabins closer to the water line; and spa staterooms providing special access and benefits.

Entertainment— The Punchliner Comedy Club, live bands along the promenade, Superstar Live

 Karaoke and production shows incorporating the latest special effects will be available for guests to kill time.

Carnival's Seaside Theatre— This 270-square-foot LED screen and poolside seating is where guests can sit and watch classic and first-run movies, sporting events, news, concerts and other programming, either during the day or night.

Ocean Plaza— Ocean Plaza is an indoor/outdoor cafe and live entertainment venue where guests can dance to live music and enjoy specialty coffees and sweets - even freshly made milkshakes. Full bar service, specializing in martinis and mojitos, is also available.

The Lanai— The Lanai is a half-mile, open-air promenade encircling Promenade Deck 5 where guests can take a stroll, lie down in a deck chair, or relax in one of four cantilevered whirlpools that extend out over the ship's sides.
 
Fun Hub— Available on any guests' Internet-connected laptop or at dozens of locations throughout the ship is the Fun Hub, a social network and comprehensive shipboard intranet portal that provides access to a variety of information on Carnival Magic's services, facilities and daily activities. Carnival Magic will also offer bow-to-stern Wi-Fi and cell phone service.

The 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic is slated to debut in Europe with a series of seven- to 12-day Mediterranean cruises operating May 1 - October 16, 2011. Following a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing, Carnival Magic will launch seven-day Caribbean service from Galveston, TX, November 14, 2011, becoming the port's largest year-round cruise ship.