Windstar Cruises Cuts Star Breeze in Half
Windstar Cruises has reached a huge milestone in their $250 Million Star Plus Initiative! Star Breeze is at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Italy, and was cut in half in preparation for the insertion of a new block! This transformation includes a new eclectic Spanish restaurant Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, the new alfresco Star Grill by Steven Raichlen, an elevated pool, and a new spa and fitness center. In future voyages you’ll discover thoughtful re-imagined enhancements throughout all suites, including new bathrooms.
The slightly larger ships and new enhancements will significantly build upon the signature onboard environment Windstar is known for. The social and friendly public spaces on the ships create a welcome chemistry between guests and the crew. This is the first of three new mid-ship sections to be constructed and inserted as part of Windstar’s $250 Million Star Plus Initiative, which is committed to the expansion and transformation of the cruise line’s three Star Class vessels.
Be one of the first to experience these new features in person during the inaugural Star Breeze Caribbean cruise, Colors of Key West & Central America, departing from Miami on March 20, 2020!
Silver Shadow Set For Major Refurbishment
Silversea’s all-suite, 388-guest Silver Shadow is set to undergo an extensive refurbishment in November 2019, to enrich the ship’s comfort further still for the cruise line’s guests. The renovation will include the creation of a new Atrium area on deck 5, and major enhancements to all guest suites, corridors, and many public spaces—including a remodelling of the ship’s La Dame restaurant, Connoisseur’s Corner, and the Casino.
Part of Project Invictus—a long-term plan to grow and enhance Silversea’s already ultra-luxury fleet of ships—the comprehensive refurbishment will be inspired by the design of Silver Muse. The numerous upgrades to Silver Shadow will include:
Suites: The ship’s spacious guest suites and corridors will undergo a floor-to-ceiling renovation, inspired by the elegant design and color palette of Silver Muse. Vista and Veranda suites will benefit from a full renovation of all fixed and loose furniture, in addition to new lighting, carpets, and headboards. Bathrooms will also be upgraded with new sinks and Silestone material. Silver Shadow’s Medallion, Silver, Grand, and Royal suites will be upgraded with a new color scheme and new materials, as per Silver Muse, while bathrooms will also undergo refurbishments. The ship’s Owner’s Suite will be entirely renovated too, with a full refurbishment of the bathroom.
New Atrium & Arts Café: The space currently occupied by the Lobby, Boutique and Casino will be redesigned as a new Atrium. A social hub featuring an updated interactive guest reception area, the open-plan Atrium will comprise boutiques and, as its centerpiece, the Arts Café—a Silver Muse-inspired space where guests can relax amid sophisticated artworks, as they enjoy coffees, pastries, sandwiches, and other delicacies during the day, or cocktails during evening hours.
La Dame: Offering the highest expression of excellence in French dining, the hugely popular La Dame restaurant will be refurbished and enlarged to accommodate 40 diners to ensure every guest has the opportunity to experience its chic style, exceptional service and sophisticated cuisine.
Connoisseur’s Corner: A rich and luxurious lounge, offering fine cognacs and premium cigars, the Connoisseur’s Corner will be moved to Deck 8 (in the space formerly occupied by the Library and Internet Café), where its complete reimagining will include the addition of a new outdoor smoking area with comfortable seating.
Casino: A complete redesign of the ship’s ever-popular Casino will entail moving it to Deck 8, and placing it adjacent to the relocated Connoisseur’s Corner. The new setting for its 11 slot machines and two gaming tables will be highlighted by a beautifully updated décor.
Observation Library: Formerly the Observation Lounge, this quiet space for reading and reflection, which is set at the fore of the ship on deck 10, will be known as the Observation Library. Here, guests will enjoy access to a carefully curated collection of books. Its panoramic ocean views will be complemented by new carpet and furniture.
Zagara Beauty Spa & Fitness Centre: The top-to-bottom renovation of the Zagara Beauty Spa and the Fitness Centre will encompass new steam and sauna rooms, fully refurbished treatment rooms, new furniture and flooring, updated state-of-the-art fitness equipment, and more.
Refreshed Public Spaces: Also scheduled for comprehensive renovation are The Restaurant, La Terrazza, Panorama Lounge, The Bar, The Show Lounge, and Card/Conference Rooms—each of which will benefit from décor upgrades, from new furniture to new upholstery, carpets, and wall/window treatments. The pool area will boast new outdoor furniture, refurbished teak flooring, a new canvas awning with inserted lighting, and new outdoor heaters, while the jogging track will benefit from new teak resin.
“We are committed to maintaining the impeccable standards of the Silversea experience, and this major refurbishment of Silver Shadow represents a significant investment for the benefit of our guests,” said Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s CEO. “Whether relaxing in the new Atrium or sipping a cognac in the expanded Connoisseur’s Corner, our guests will notice not only a revitalized look but also greater choices and flexibility as a result of this project’s enhancements.”
Silver Shadow’s first voyage following the transformation will enable guests to travel deeper into the Caribbean on a seven-night itinerary, departing from Fort Lauderdale for San Juan on December 3, 2019.
The new S.S. Bon Voyage is here!
Originally built in 2006 as Uniworld’s River Royale, the S.S. Bon Voyage has just embarked on her maiden voyage to sail the rivers of Bordeaux. After being completely transformed into one of it’s newest Super Ships she now features polished wood, subtle brass details, stylish emerald and blue fabrics and fresh sunflowers and lavender throughout and truly reflects her French heritage.
The dining venues onboard were created to capture the essence of France. The quintessential La Brasserie, with its natural green and pops of yellow décor inspired by the famous Bouillon Pigalle, serves traditional bistro fare. Le Grand Fromage offers menus reflective of the local cuisine, prepared from locally-sourced ingredients. La Cave du Vin is an intimate space where connoisseurs can gather for expert food and wine pairing dinners upon request. You’ll not want to miss Le Salon Champagne, which is inspired by Yves Saint Laurent’s personal abode, Villa Majorelle.
The stunning Soleil Deck, awash in vibrant fabrics, features the only infinity pool on the rivers and spectacular views of the French countryside. Poolside service at Le Café du Soleil offers casual French cuisine as well as open-air cooking demonstrations from our chefs.
In addition to the public spaces, the S.S. Bon Voyage features four new spacious suites, and every stateroom has received an exquisite redesign with cool marble bathrooms and unique features.
Discover France on board the S.S. Bon Voyage with these beautiful itineraries
A PORTRAIT OF MAJESTIC FRANCE
15 DAYS FROM PARIS TO BORDEAUX
SHIPS: S.S. Joie de Vivre, S.S. Bon Voyage
The quintessential voyage for gourmets, oenophiles and lovers of all things French. This picture-perfect journey blends your passion for the good life—art, culture and gastronomy—with a broad sweep of lovely French landscapes.
BRILLIANT BORDEAUX
8 DAYS FROM BORDEAUX TO BORDEAUX – ENHANCED FOR 2019
SHIPS: S.S. Bon Voyage
From its noble châteaux to its breathtaking estuary, Bordeaux is an oenophile’s paradise and every traveler’s dream. Sail three stunning rivers—the Garonne, the Dordogne and the Gironde—on one amazing journey.
ULTIMATE FRANCE
22 DAYS FROM BORDEAUX TO AVIGNON
SHIPS: S.S. Bon Voyage, S.S. Joie de Vivre, S.S. Catherine
This triumvirate of France brings you the very best of each region—Paris and the Normandy coast in the north, vineyard-rich Bordeaux in the southwest, and the sun-drenched Mediterranean delights of Burgundy and Provence.
Here is a glimpse of the S.S. Bon Voyage
Celebrity Summit Receives “Revolutionary” Modernization
Celebrity Summit is just the second “Revolutionary” redesign for the brand, with Celebrity Equinox scheduled to enter dry-dock in May 2019 and six more ships to be modernized by 2023.
Celebrity Summit is ready to turn heads after completing a dramatic transformation. The ship’s revitalization is the next chapter of THE CELEBRITY REVOLUTION, Celebrity Cruises’ extensive modernization effort, with more than $500-million in upgrades across the fleet.
The all-new Celebrity Summit’s revolutionary enhancements include:
– Completely redesigned staterooms and suites
– The addition of The Retreat for suite guests, with exclusive new sundeck and redesigned lounge
– Stunningly reimagined restaurants, bars and lounges
– Fully redesigned spa and casino
“Celebrity Summit is one of the most popular ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet and we’re excited to share the revolutionized design with the world,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “Celebrity Summit is better than she’s ever been – with modernized spaces and exciting new experiences, and she’s the first of our ships to feature our partnerships with American Ballet Theatre and Chef Daniel Boulud.”
“Nearly every space on Celebrity Summit has been modernized, with attention paid to the smallest detail,” said Brian Abel, Senior Vice President, Hotel Operations, Celebrity Cruises. “We couldn’t be more proud of the work that our teams have done for Summit’s ship’s ‘Revolution’ and the months of hard work leading up to this moment.”
Celebrity Summit’s bow-to-stern transformation began on February 17, 2019, in Freeport, Grand Bahama. It spent a total of 31 days in the skilled hands of thousands of engineers, architects, artisans, designers, contractors and members of the Celebrity team who collaborated to ensure flawless execution of the ship’s dramatic modernization.
When updating staterooms and suites, every detail was thought through, with guest comfort at the forefront. Celebrity collaborated with renowned international hospitality firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) to transform the staterooms, while turning to famed designer Kelly Hoppen, MBE, to refresh the gorgeous suites and bring The Retreat to Celebrity Summit.
Enhancements made to the staterooms and suites include:
– All-new stateroom design in partnership with HBA and refreshed suite design by Kelly Hoppen
– Celebrity’s eXhale bedding featuring luxurious Cashmere mattresses
– Completely redesigned stateroom bathrooms, with state-of-the-art finishes and fixtures
– An all-new exclusive open-air hideaway – known as The Retreat Sundeck – for suite guests designed by Hoppen, featuring a new hot tub, cabanas, loungers, artwork, and more
– The Retreat Lounge – formerly Michael’s Club – an exclusive 24/7 lounge for suite guests designed by Hoppen, offering complimentary beverages, gourmet bites and concierge service
– A total of 30 new staterooms, including 13 new AquaClass Staterooms, seven new Ocean View Staterooms and 10 new Inside Staterooms
Celebrity seized this transformational opportunity and reimagined many of the restaurants and lounges found on Celebrity Summit. In collaboration with renowned New York hospitality design firm BG Studio International, a longtime partner of Celebrity, the brand revealed:
– A transformed Oceanview Café, featuring a new open concept, increased seating options, and delicious, globally inspired culinary offerings
– A revitalized Main Dining Room with more seating and updated fixtures, including the eye-catching ceiling design featuring interlocking metal rings and lighting
– A reimagined Sunset Bar, featuring a variety of inviting seating options perfect for alfresco dining or cocktails with a view
– A reimagined Rendezvous Lounge, perfect for hosting events and entertainment from day to night.
Guests will find luxurious enhancements across the ship including:
– Xcelerate Wi-Fi throughout the ship, and the addition of RFID lock technology with digital key
– Boutiques featuring some of the hottest designers in the world including Shinola, John Hardy, and TAG Heuer
– A new, wellness-focused spa design for Canyon Ranch at Sea, transforming the treatment rooms, salon, fitness center, and locker rooms
– A new, semi-private consultation area in the fitness center for personal training and consultations
– An enhanced Persian Garden thermal suite, where therapeutic spaces and experiences, such as Turkish bath, infrared sauna, and salt therapy
– An enhanced Art Gallery and Photo Gallery, plus a sleek and sophisticated new design for The Casino both in partnership with HBA
– A redesigned Casino Bar, poised to be one of the most exciting places aboard to celebrate
– State-of-the-art slot machines that make The Casino one of the most cutting-edge gaming experiences at sea
Norwegian Sky Gets Updated Spaces After Renovations
Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils Photos of Norwegian Sky’s 2019 Bow-To-Stern Renovation Featuring New Bar and Dining Venue, Pinnacle Lounge and Sushi Bar, Introduced to Norwegian Fleet
Following a three-week dry dock in Freeport, Bahamas, Norwegian Sky recently returned to her homeport of Miami showcasing new venues, updated spaces and completely redesigned staterooms and corridors, elevating the experience for guests looking for shorter vacation getaways.
“Last year was an exciting year with the record-breaking launch of Norwegian Bliss, the announcement of Norwegian Joy’s redeployment to the U.S. and the unveiling of four ships which benefited from our comprehensive Norwegian Edge® bow-to-stern refurbishment program,” said Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are continuing the momentum and starting 2019 with the reintroduction of Norwegian Sky. She returned home to Miami unveiling new designs and experiences that showcase our dedication to providing guests with meaningful experiences across our fleet.”
All food and beverage outlets were updated, and eight new venues were introduced to Norwegian Sky. These include the pub-style eatery The Local Bar & Grill; La Cucina for classic Italian fare; Sugarcane Mojito Bar; Topsiders, the poolside bar; late night venues, Bliss Ultra Lounge and Spinnaker Lounge; a full-service Starbucks® licensed store; and new to the Norwegian fleet – Pinnacle Lounge and Sushi Bar, which provides guests with a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere to enjoy original and traditional sushi concepts while taking in the endless views of the ocean through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Other upgrades include the complimentary Palace and Crossings Main Dining Rooms, Garden Café and The Great Outdoors; and specialty restaurants Cagney’s and Le Bistro. All bars and lounges on board were also refreshed.
All 1,002 staterooms were upgraded with new televisions and USB outlets, as well as brand new carpet, artwork, furniture, lighting and balcony decking. The ship’s four 835-square-foot Owner’s Suites feature refreshed bathrooms and private hot tubs.
The Atrium, the epicenter of the ship, has been revitalized with an entirely refreshed look including updated flooring, refurbished reception and shore excursion desk areas and the addition of lounge seating. Pool deck enhancements include new flooring and furniture, the installation of additional canopies and an updated beach area.
A year-round resident of PortMiami, Norwegian Sky offers three-and-four-day cruises to the Bahamas, and four-and-five-day cruises to Bahamas and Cuba with an overnight in Havana. She calls to Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island, and is one of two ships in the fleet to offer an all-inclusive experience on select sailings.
Princess Introduces New Family Zone
Newly Designed, Kid-Friendly Water Attraction to Offer Interactive Area for Families to Play Together On The Caribbean Princess
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Feb. 6, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — When Caribbean Princess emerges from drydock in June 2019, for a season of summer cruises to the sun-drenched Caribbean, The Reef Family Splash Zone will debut offering a refined, playful and relaxing area for adults and kids alike to gather and enjoy the sun and water together.
“In our latest effort to enhance our family offerings, this newly reimagined space invites families and kids to experience a multi-functional area to engage, play, reconnect,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “The Reef is the ultimate spot for families of all ages to enjoy spending time together with new water features, recreational activities and lounge areas.”
Located aft on deck 17, The Reef will offer many enticing features, including:
Splashpad with Whale Feature – this interactive and inviting water playground features a splash pool, assorted water sprays and showers where families can enjoy a day of splashing, laughing and playing. The focal point is an interactive whale feature, with ‘rain” from its fluke.
Game Zone – bringing family competition to a whole new level with oversized backyard games, comfy lounge sectionals, and a kid-friendly bar setting, families can grab some cocktails and mocktails while challenging the kids to a game of Connect Four, Jenga or Cornhole.
New Outdoor Furniture – with a variety of seating and lounging options, from single sun loungers to sectional chairs and couches with tables, he Reef transforms into an inviting space for groups of all sizes aimed to be comfortable and conversational, also featuring new fixtures and finishes.
Shade Canopy and Wind Panels – for guests looking for less sun, a canopy will offer a section of the Reef shade and sun protection while wind panels will be installed throughout the area for all-day comfort.
Upgraded Lighting and Music System – updated lighting to the pool and steps as well as wall lighting installations allow the space to be utilized for evening events and activities.
Refurbished Pool, Jacuzzi and Bar – the existing pool, spa and bar will be updated to match the newly designed space featuring updated signage and contemporary artwork. In addition, just below the Reef on deck 16 in the Camp Discovery outdoor area, kids can interact and explore with a destination themed water table. This educational offering features the many destinations and iconic landmarks Princess visits, including the Sydney Opera House and Golden Gate Bridge and also highlights how a cruise ship moves through water, waves and weather and even how to navigate the Panama Canal locks.
Over the last few years Caribbean Princess has undergone a major revitalization, with many family-oriented features and amenities including breakthrough technology, family accommodations, new dining experiences and entertainment offerings.
Caribbean Princess was the first Princess cruise ship to debut Princess MedallionClass vacations, offering guests a portfolio of experiences specifically designed to enhance their cruise vacation. Considered a breakthrough in the vacation industry the OceanMedallion wearable device features leading-edge technology that delivers personalized service through enhanced guest-crew interactions, eliminates friction points and enables interactive entertainment. Offerings include:
Fast ship boarding with OceanReady™ – guests who arrive at the terminal with travel documents (i.e. passports) uploaded to their profile have an expedited check-in process that starts their vacation with ease. Personalization starts pre-cruise by guests becoming OceanReady while at home.
On demand beverages – using smart devices, guests have the ability to order drinks using OceanNowTM and have them delivered directly to their location throughout the ship and even in their stateroom.
The best Wi-Fi at sea: MedallionNet™ – fast, reliable, affordable and unlimited, MedallionNet provides land-like speeds that allow families to stay connected from anywhere on the ship including staterooms which are each equipped with a Wi-Fi access point. With MedallionNet guests easily share vacation experiences with friends and family back home, stream TV shows, movies and sports events, and even make voice and video calls.
Locate and chat with friends and family: OceanCompass™, available on guests’ smart devices and portals throughout the ships, leverages the OceanMedallion to enable point-to-point wayfinding throughout the ship. OceanCompass guides guests throughout their journey, providing directional information so they can seamlessly navigate to their next point of interest, as well as easily locate and chat with friends and family on board using ShipMates.
For families looking for immersive, enriching and fun experiences while traveling, Princess Cruises partnered with Discovery Inc. to create “Discovery at SEA” onboard programming that bring to life many of the destinations visited while on a cruise and favorite Discovery and Animal Planet shows. Onboard activities include:
Stargazing at Sea & Voyage to the Stars Indoor Planetarium – Science Channel and Princess Cruises take guests on a cosmic voyage looking at the sky from the top deck on an interactive guided tour with a Stargazing Specialist, identifying major constellations and learning the secrets of the stars and the folklore around them. The indoor “Voyage to the Stars Planetarium” displays real-time images of constellations and planets. Both indoor and outdoor stargazing includes commentary from Discovery at SEA’s Science Channel Ambassador Astrophysicist Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi and Kari Bryon from Mythbusters.
Camp Discovery – newly rebranded “Camp Discovery” Youth & Teen Centers offer cruisers, ages 3 to 17, engaging new experiences and wonder-filled centers inspiring creativity, curiosity and entertainment.
High Seas Heist with Detective Joe Kenda – calling all mystery lovers, Princess guests go on the case with celebrity detective Lt. Joe Kenda to see if they can solve a heist whodunit. This voyage-long experience begins with the theft of a rare necklace and ends with the unmasking of the culprit. In between is a journey full of puzzles, clues and activities as guests narrow down their suspect list with help from Lt. Kenda via video segments.
Discovery Hit Shows – Discovery at SEA incorporates content from hit shows and programming like Shark Week, Finding Bigfoot and Mythbusters through activities, challenges and trivia.
With family travelers in mind, Caribbean Princess offers 87 connecting staterooms keeping the whole family together. All stateroom types can accommodate up to 4 people. Families of 5 or more can also be accommodated in a two-bedroom family suite. Each stateroom features the cruise line’s award-winning Princess Luxury Bed, designed in collaboration with sleep exert Dr. Michael Breus for the ultimate night of sleep at sea.
Caribbean Princess begins a season of summer Caribbean cruises beginning on May 14, 2019 offering alternating seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings, roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale. Now is the perfect time to book a vacation to the Caribbean during the All Aboard Sale that is available through February 28.
New Upgrades Debut Onboard Diamond Princess
Cruise Line Completes 14-Day Dry Dock in Singapore
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Feb. 4, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Princess Cruises guests aboard Diamond Princess will now enjoy a refreshed onboard atmosphere following an extensive 14-day, multimillion dollar dry dock in Singapore, continuing Princess Cruises “Come Back New Promise” commitment focused on investing more than $450 million across the global fleet.
Enhanced offerings onboard Diamond Princess include:
Entertainment Upgrades – guests watching a movie, sporting event or concert on the outdoor Movies Under the Stars screen now enjoy updated 7.1 surround sound digital audio and pool deck LED lighting enhancements for a more vibrant colorful entertainment experience.
Casino – guests who enjoy gaming excitement will be surrounded by new carpet, light fixtures and new flat-screen TVs.
Lotus Spa & Fitness Center – a space where guests can relax and invigorate, salon and treatment rooms have been upgraded and the latest in Precor fitness equipment is now available.
“Asia, and particularly Japan, is on many of our guests’ bucket list, and cruising is one of the best ways to explore this hospitable island nation,” said Jan Swartz, President of Princess Cruises. “This is the seventh season Princess Cruises has offered home port voyages from Japan, and we are thrilled to provide guests with our enriched onboard features that bring Japanese culture and beauty to life while sailing this region.”
Further general refurbishments were also completed aboard Diamond Princess, including upgraded digital audio system for the Princess Theatre, Explorers Lounge and Club Fusion, as well as new furnishings in the Horizon Court.
In recent months, Diamond Princess also received product enhancements:
The Princess Luxury Bed – available in every stateroom aboard Diamond Princess, the Princess Luxury Bed was developed by Princess Cruises in collaboration with board-certified sleep expert, Dr. Michael Breus. The bed offers the ultimate night of sleep at sea combining the science of sleep with the pinnacle of design and recently received the highest ranking for “Best Cruise Ship Beds” by Cruise Critic.
New Wine List – offering more wine-making regions, varietals and blends than ever before, a total of 142 wines from around the world were curated in partnership with Doug Frost, one of only four people in the world to hold both a Master of Wine and Master Sommelier title.
In addition to the new wine menu, six new beverage menus will be rolled out at The Sanctuary, Pool Deck, Wheelhouse, Crooners, and Explorer’s Lounge throughout 2019 onboard Diamond Princess.
Following the dry dock in Singapore, Diamond Princess will embark on a 12-night sailing to Phu My, Nha Trang, Hong Kong, Taipei, Osaka and Shimizu (Mount Fuji) before returning to Yokohama for her 2019 Japan cruise season featuring 60 departures on 40 unique itineraries, visiting 41 destinations in seven countries. Diamond Princess guests will enjoy the itineraries that take them to ports around Japan and Asian destinations visiting sites famous for beautiful spring flowers, summer festivals, as well as fall foliage.
Built in Japan, Diamond Princess features the Izumi Bath, the largest open-air Japanese bath at sea – an 8,800 sq. ft bath and garden complex, offering indoor and outdoor Japanese bathing experiences including steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs with spectacular ocean vistas. Guests can experience the full color and culture of the region onboard with Diamond’s distinctly Japanese offerings such as Kai Sushi, an authentic sushi bar, and traditional music and entertainment, all while enjoying the warm, welcoming service that is synonymous with Princess.
Crystal Cruises Announces New Getaways For 2019
New six- to 16-day voyages offer expanded global choices for luxury travelers
MIAMI, November 26, 2018 – Further expanding its roster of luxury options for globetrotting guests in 2019, Crystal Cruises is unveiling nine new “Crystal Getaways” – abbreviated segments of existing longer voyages – in January, February, April and October of next year. The sailings, seven aboard Crystal Symphony and two aboard Crystal Serenity, range from six to 16 days, exploring South America, Australia and Indonesia, the North American Gulf Coast, South Pacific and New Zealand, and South Africa.
Both Crystal ships have recently undergone significant redesigns within the last year including enhanced butler-serviced penthouses and suites, open-seating dining with new restaurants, new entertainment venues and enhanced décor in public areas and lounges. Guests can enjoy these upgrades on the newly added Getaways sailings, which include:
Crystal Symphony
January 5: 6 days, New Orleans to Curaçao, Willemstad
January 11: 8 days, Curaçao, Willemstad to Recife, Brazil
January 11: 10 days, Curaçao, Willemstad to Salvador da Bahia, Brazil
January 11: 13 days, Curaçao, Willemstad to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
January 24: 8 days, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Montevideo, Uruguay
April 14: 12 days, Cairns, Australia to Singapore
October 15: 10 days, Panama City, Panama to New Orleans
Crystal Serenity
January 20: 16 days, Honolulu to Auckland, New Zealand
February 28: 13 days, Port Louis, Mauritius to Cape Town, South Africa
Cruise fares for the new Crystal Getaways begin at $2,560 per suite, with Book Now Savings of up to $1,500 per suite available for bookings by December 31, 2018.
Windstar Cruises Announces $250 Million Star Plus Initiative
Major Investment Engages Fincantieri to Renovate & Lengthen Windstar’s Three Star-Class Ships beginning in Fall 2019
Sleek, modern design configuration and expansion (above) to include creation of 50 new suites and all-new guest experiences including new dining & spa venues
Seattle, WA, November 15, 2018 — Windstar Cruises today announces the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative, a major investment and expansion for the innovative cruise company. The multi-million dollar, multi-year undertaking will impact and enhance all aspects of the guest experience for the highly awarded small ship cruise line’s three Star Class vessels.
“We are thrilled to announce the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative, a significant investment in the future of Windstar Cruises. This exciting initiative is our 180 degree from ordinary solution to add new capacity and major enhancements to the guest experience in a very time efficient manner,” said Windstar President John Delaney. “The initiative not only creates beautiful new suites and public spaces, but we will also take the opportunity to re-engine the ships with a more fuel efficient and environmentally responsible propulsion system. This will be a true game changer for Windstar and our small ship cruise experience.”
The initiative will expand guest accommodations on the boutique line’s three all-suite vessels increasing capacity from 212 passengers to 312 guests per ship, following the lengthening. The work will be done to Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride in succession between October 2019 and November 2020, and take place at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Sicily, Italy. The project represents an overall capacity increase of 24% for the small ship line.
Each Star Class ship will be cut to allow the installation of a new section of ship that will lengthen each vessel approximately 25.6 meters bringing the total length to just over 159 meters, still the right size to access the smaller ports and harbors that Windstar favors on the line’s immersive itineraries. The project adds 50 new suites, bringing the total number of suites per ship to 156, and represents an investment of more than $267,000 per passenger berth.
“This major investment is an efficient way to build on a winning brand that shows strong momentum and growth potential. Support for this exciting new initiative demonstrates our commitment to Windstar as an important part of the Xanterra portfolio,” said Andrew N. Todd, President and CEO of Xanterra Travel Collection.
Also involved in the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative is the creation of state-of-the-art public spaces including two new dining locations; new shop and retail space; a much enlarged fitness center; and a new world-class spa.
In addition to the impressive scale of work to be done, the renovation includes a comprehensive re-engine project for each ship. This complex undertaking is an uncommon occurrence in the cruise industry and involves the removal of seven current engines and installation of four new, more environmentally friendly engines that will run on cleaner fuel and reduce emissions impact to sailing regions.
“Given our expertise as a leader in major cruise ship renovations and lengthening projects, we are gratified to be chosen by Windstar to undertake this complex and extensive endeavor. We look forward to working with the Windstar team to totally transform these elegant small ships,” said Giorgio Rizzo, Executive SVP, Fincantieri Services.
NEW: 50 New Suites, New Dining Venues, New Spa & Fitness Areas Take Center Stage
Windstar has partnered with acclaimed designer Ray Chung, Director of Design at The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry in New York, to create modern and inviting design aesthetics for the new public spaces and new suites.
Among new guest amenities and accommodations in the planning phase are:
– 50 new suites featuring new suite categories and open floor plan configurations.
– Creation of two brand new, larger Owner’s Suites, that combines existing suites to create up to a three-bedroom, two-balcony suite – the first of its kind in the cruise industry.
– Two brand new dining experiences including: an intimate, alternative dining restaurant, and a casual barbecue space adjacent to the top deck Star Bar, perfect for outdoor grilling during Windstar’s Signature Onboard Barbecue celebration or enjoying while spending time on deck.
– Expanded Veranda Restaurant to offer significantly more ocean-view seating and upgraded dining area.
– For existing suites, all-new bathrooms and installation of new sliding doors for the Balcony Suites.
– Larger pool and hot tub that will be reconfigured and elevated offering outstanding views, along with more and enhanced outdoor deck area for relaxing and sun-bathing.
– A completely re-imagined and enlarged spa and fitness center to invigorate active guests.
– A new elevator mid-ship, making access to all decks easy from anywhere on board.
– A comfortable, new tender loading area located mid-ship and two new 90-passenger tenders that will ferry guests to port when ships are at anchor.
In addition, ship staff and crew areas and accommodations will be expanded and upgraded. Additional crew will be hired and the increase will maintain the line’s impressive 1.5:1 guest to hotel staff ratio.
As planning on the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative progresses, additional details about the extensive work to be done, new onboard experiences, and new partnerships will be revealed and highlighted in news announcements and on a dedicated microsite that will launch in 2019.
Shaq’s Big Chicken Restaurant At Sea
Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal To Open First ‘Big Chicken’ Restaurant At Sea Aboard Carnival Radiance
MIAMI, Nov. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Carnival Cruise Line announced today that the totally transformed Carnival Radiance will be the first cruise ship to feature “Big Chicken,” a seagoing version of a new restaurant created by the line’s Chief Fun Officer, NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal.
The menu will feature a mouth-watering variety of fried chicken sandwiches and fries, with flavors to match Shaq’s larger than life personality, all free of charge.
O’Neal opened his first land-based Big Chicken restaurant in Las Vegas in late October. The seagoing adaptation Big Chicken aboard Carnival Radiance will be among the many food, dining and entertainment innovations incorporated into the 102,000-ton ship following a $200 million refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain, in 2020.
“Shaq has brought so much to our brand as Chief Fun Officer and we are always looking for ways to expand on this wonderful relationship and provide our guests with new ways to Choose Fun,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Knowing his passion for food and fun, we’re thrilled to work with Shaq to bring the first Big Chicken at sea aboard the totally transformed Carnival Radiance.”
“As Chief Fun Officer, I want to bring even more fun to every aspect of a Carnival cruise, including what guests eat,” said O’Neal. “Big Chicken has been a dream of mine and now that our land-based restaurant is open, it’s only natural to bring it to sea, as well. I’m really excited that Carnival Radiance guests will be able to enjoy my own delicious creations alongside all the other great food offerings on board.”
Located aft on Lido Deck, Big Chicken will tantalize vacationers’ taste buds with a delectable array of fried chicken favorites, all developed and taste-tested by the NBA Hall of Famer himself based on his own recipes.
A variety of fried chicken sandwiches will be featured, with playful monikers inspired by Shaq’s litany of clever nicknames for himself, along with his own take on traditional sides.
Breakfast will be offered as well with choices like chicken and egg biscuits that serve as the perfect morning accompaniment. Service is a breeze, with patrons placing their order at the counter and picking up their items right away – no waiting and best of all, it’s free.
Big Chicken is among the many new culinary and beverage offerings that will be available on Carnival Radiance when it debuts in 2020. Other outlets include Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse developed by Food Network star and longtime partner Guy Fieri, a classic American steakhouse called Fahrenheit 555, the Cucina del Capitano family-style Italian restaurant, and the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Pub.
An expansive new WaterWorks aqua park featuring the new AquaTunnel slide as well as a SportSquare open-air recreation complex with a suspended ropes course will be added, as well. All of the ship’s staterooms will be renovated with a tropical color palette and striking new décor.
Itinerary and homeport details for Carnival Radiance will be announced shortly.