Royal Holiday

It’s a brand-new year, and that means cruise lines will be showcasing the latest and greatest in cruising innovations and technology this year. And what better way to do that than to highlight the newest vessels in the world’s ever-growing fleet? The year 2015 will see the launch of a number of forward-looking cruise ships, including a few from Royal Holiday-affiliated cruise lines.

First up in the spring will be Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas, the newest ship in the line’s acclaimed Quantum class. She is scheduled to sail Mediterranean itineraries out of Southampton, United Kingdom, during the summer; and Caribbean cruises from Bayonne, New Jersey, in the winter. The ship, of course, will feature the most advanced entertainment options for which the Quantum-class vessels are known. Guests can enjoy a skydiving simulator, 360-degree views from the glass-enclosed North Star capsule, and virtual balconies in interior staterooms.

In October, NCL’s Norwegian Escape will hit the water. The first ship in the upgrade Breakaway-Plus class, she will feature more deck space than her sister ships in the similar Breakaway class. The vessel, which will be based in Miami, will service Caribbean routes. The Escape, which will be adorned with distinctive hull art by artist Guy Harvey, will offer passengers characteristic flair at venues like the Miami-style Tobacco Road bar and a Margaritaville restaurant.

In addition to the new launches this coming year, a handful of cruise ships will also benefit from extensive refurbishments. Carnival Miracle, which may soon relocate from the Mexican Riviera to sail Bahamas itineraries, will be refurbished in spring 2015. She will most likely be among the vessels set to receive Carnival’s popular Fun Ship 2.0 upgrade, which will include added features like the Blue Iguana Cantina and Guy’s Burger Joint. Next year, the Norwegian Gem will also be getting a facelift. The ship, which will enjoy a complete overhaul of her decor and furnishings, will include new venues like O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill.

The New Year is rolling in, and countless vacationers are already looking forward to the fun cruises and exotic destinations that they’ll be enjoying later in the year. But cruising doesn’t have to be just about fantastic food and lounging around. In fact, year after year, plenty of cruisers find the time to combine relaxation with opportunities to grow personally and learn a little about pretty much any topic under the sun.

Enrichment programs have been a staple aboard luxury lines like Cunard and Oceania for years. At the same time, more mainstream cruise lines have long offered modest library facilities and limited classes in dancing, cooking, fitness, and more. As more cruisers seek to expand their horizons, however, ships are offering lectures and classes on a variety of subjects, ranging from history and language, to art and wine tasting. The best part is that these enrichment experiences are far from boring and can easily be incorporated into an unforgettable, fun-filled cruise.

Princess and other lines offer lectures on a broad range of topics on its cruises. Speakers are drawn from experts in fields such as archeology, cultural history, marine biology, and countless other disciplines. In addition, the line’s ScholarShip@Sea program offers passengers the opportunity to take fun classes in hobby-oriented pursuits, such as ceramics and photography, as well as technical subjects such as navigation. Likewise, Royal Caribbean offers classes on topics like dance, wine tasting, and cooking. The cruise line also offers instruction in languages, as well as jewelry-making, scrapbooking, and other crafts.

In addition, every cruise line offers a range of shore excursions, many of which enable participants to delve into the history, culture, or the ecology of their favorite destinations.

When you find yourself with a few extra hours during your next cruise, why not spend the time learning something new through one of the ship’s enrichment programs or educational shore excursions?

Consider it a New Year’s resolution!

With the year finally drawing to a close, it’s time to take a look back and review the exciting developments occurred in the world of cruising in 2014. This year saw several cruise-related stories in the news, including the ravages of Hurricane Odile and a number of outbreaks of illness on board a few ships. However, the biggest news items of 2014 were also the best: three brand new ships joined some of the world’s best-established cruise lines. These new vessels not only provided cruise enthusiasts with plenty of extra space and flexibility, but they also represented today’s forward-thinking innovations in cruise entertainment and technology:

Norwegian Getaway

From the first glimpse of the ship’s bright hull art to the last night’s outing in the spacious 678 Ocean Place atrium, the Norwegian Getaway is all about relaxing, Miami-style fun. The ship offers a variety of entertainment, including a number of Broadway-caliber musicals and sizzling clubs, as well as over 40 eateries and bars. For a little quiet time, of course, the ship also has a few spots to unwind, including the Thermal Suite spa lounge.

Regal Princess

Undeniably classy, the Regal Princess offers both elegance and fun. The signature atrium, the Piazza, is a magnificent indoor space spanning three decks that offer passengers access to a huge range of the ship’s entertainment venues and restaurants. The SeaWalk – a glass walkway that overhangs the open ocean – has also become a favorite among Princess cruisers. Critics have also hailed the ships dining options, noting that even the buffet offers something delicious for every palate.

Quantum of the Seas

A floating fortress of fun, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas boasts a variety of whimsical entertainment options to keep cruisers busy. North Star is a glass gondola that provides panoramic views from 300 feet above the waves. Thrill-seekers can experience a sky-diving simulator and other such activities, while night owls have plenty to keep them awake in the Music Hall and the technologically advanced entertainment venue Two70. The ship has also gone all out with its “Dynamic Dining” concept, which allows passengers to sample fare from several restaurants rather than being restricted to a single dining room.

Cruise industry watchers recently reported huge gains in tourism in a number of Canadian seaports like Quebec, as well as in a number of river and lake ports. These trends show that our northern neighbor is becoming an increasingly popular cruise destination among North American vacationers.

This makes perfect sense considering everything Canada has to offer visitors. On both its Atlantic and Pacific coasts, as well as along the ship-friendly St. Lawrence River and Great Lakes, there are ports of every kind. Old World charm and rocky coastlines define Canada’s eastern waterways, while piney, snow-capped peaks overlook the country’s west coast. In addition, because it’s so close to home, Canada is a perfect destination for those with a limited time to travel or first-time cruisers who may be a little wary of culture shock.

Halifax

The rugged Atlantic coast of Canada is a study in stern scenery: powerful gray seas, boulder-strewn beaches, and solitary lighthouses. For this reason, Halifax makes an especially great stop for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. History buffs will also be interested in the RMS Titanic items displayed in the Maritime Museum here.

Newfoundland

The island of Newfoundland offers many surprises for cruisers interested in wilderness retreats and history. Tourists can take a stroll through St. John, the oldest city in North America. Nature enthusiasts may prefer the remote scenery and opportunities for whale watching in the Bay Islands off Newfoundland’s west coast.

Quebec City

Resembling an antique French town transplanted into the New World, Quebec is about as close as a cruiser can get to Europe without actually crossing the ocean. The area is renowned for its wineries, historical atmosphere, and sophisticated culture. This is also where the immense St. Lawrence River empties into the Atlantic.

Vancouver

Located on the western coast of Canada, Vancouver is in many ways an extension of the American northwest. Its lush mountains, active populace, and artsy, open-minded culture make this a beautiful and relaxing stop on many popular Alaska cruise itineraries.

As they settle into their staterooms and begin unpacking their bags as the ship pulls out of port, most cruisers have their minds on the delicious food they’ll soon be sampling and the relaxing activities they’ll be enjoying in the coming days. Few of them are thinking about the fuel efficiency and waste products of the vessel they’re sailing on. However, while sustainability is far from many passengers’ thoughts, the people who build and run cruise ships are increasingly putting such considerations at the forefront of their corporate strategies.

Carnival Corporation—the parent company of Carnival Cruise Line and eight other international brands—recently released a report on its progress toward sustainability goals that were first announced in September 2013. At that time, the company named a number of energy efficiency and waste reduction targets, many of which went far beyond existing regulations.

This past November, Carnival announced in its latest Sustainability Report that it had already reduced CO2 emissions from ship operations by 20 percent—a full year ahead of schedule. Its ongoing $400 million air quality initiative will eventually see the company’s innovative exhaust-cleaning technology installed on over 70 percent of its fleet.

In addition to its pollution remediation measures, Carnival’s Sustainability Report also noted the launch of two ships, the Royal Princess and the AIDAstella. These new vessels are equipped with technologies that make them among the most cost- and fuel-efficient cruise ships on the ocean today.

Carnival Corporation also expanded on a number of other programs currently underway across its brands. In accordance with a mandate from the largest cruise industry trade organization, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Carnival enacted a Passenger Bill of Rights meant to assure customers of its commitment to their well-being and comfort. The company also announced contributions of over $1.5 million to Typhoon Haiyan recovery efforts earlier this year, as well as significant investments across the board to improve ship safety and streamline operations.

Carnival Corporation’s recent report means that cruisers on their ships can rest a little easier, knowing that the company serving them is taking steps to guarantee passenger safety and comfort, and to decrease its environmental footprint.

Imagine friends and family gathered around, eagerly counting down the final seconds to midnight on New Year’s Eve. Now imagine that celebration taking place in the fresh sea air, standing on the deck of an elegant cruise ship, surrounded by ocean waves beneath a starry sky.

Currently, thousands of holiday travelers around America are getting ready to board cruises to ring in the New Year. A cruise vacation is a natural choice for anyone who wants to celebrate the arrival of 2015 in style. Modern cruise ships offer so many comfortable amenities, fun activities, and exciting entertainment options, that it’s easy to see why so many cruisers choose to sail into the New Year rather than celebrate at home.

What can a cruiser expect from a New Year’s Eve cruise?

Practically every ship on the sea has a huge New Year’s bash planned, complete with hats, noisemakers, and plenty of dancing. To get into the “Auld Lang Syne” spirit, crews will deck out their ships with streamers, balloons, and other festive trimmings. Many lines will then officially kick off the celebration with special dinner menus in their dining rooms and signature restaurants.

After dinner, the party really gets started. Ships generally open up their largest dance venues for the celebration, and provide music DJs, party favors, and champagne. In fact, the largest ships—including those run by the largest cruise lines, such Norwegian, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean—often have several club spaces open for the party, thereby giving passengers a choice of fun venues.

Cruising families can also enjoy a memorable New Year’s Eve. Most large ships offer some sort of special club activities for teens and tween passengers. There are also usually late-night baby-sitting services available, so Mom and Dad can go enjoy the party.

The highlight of the evening is the countdown itself. On many ships, the captain leads this tradition, which ends with cries of “Happy New Year” and many popping champagne corks.

Every year, holiday cruises seem to become more and more popular, as American vacationers opt to leave behind the headaches of cross-country car and air travel and the mess of huge meals. Before booking a cruise, though, it’s important to think about the kind of holiday experience you want. A little research in advance can help avoid some bad surprises and unpleasant memories.

Booking

Above all, it is important to understand that holiday season cruises are incredibly popular. Thousands of people annually seek out the fun parties and good food available on cruise ships this time of year. For this reason, prices generally rise quite a bit, and cabins are booked early. In order to ensure a spot on a holiday cruise, sign up at least a few months in advance.

Atmosphere

Virtually every cruise ship offers a traditional holiday experience, and each line typically goes all out to get in the spirit. At Thanksgiving and Christmas, that means lots of seasonal decorations and a huge turkey dinner. To accommodate those who celebrate Hanukkah, there is typically a rabbi on board who leads services and a lighting of the Menorah. New Year’s Eve almost always involves a ship-wide party, a countdown to midnight, and plenty of champagne.

Aside from the seasonal festivities, there can be a big difference in the holiday experience from ship to ship. Larger ships often have plenty of family-friendly amenities, such as extended baby-sitting hours on New Year’s Eve and special clubs and activities for teens. These kinds of features are very attractive to families with children— and larger ships can have around 1,000 kids on board!

Young passengers can be great fun for some cruisers, but something of a headache for others. For those who’d like a quieter holiday cruise, consider sailing on a smaller or older ship. Also, think about an itinerary longer than a week, or a route beyond extremely popular destinations like the Caribbean. Smaller ships and longer itineraries tend to be less popular with families with children, and therefore offer better opportunities for a quieter, more intimate holiday celebration.

Whatever sort of holiday cruise you’re dreaming of, be sure to do a little planning beforehand. That is the best way to ensure you’ll return home with plenty of happy holiday memories!

With 2014 drawing to a close, cruise aficionados are declaring their favorites for the past year, and industry publications are releasing lists of cruisers’ top picks.

Just a few weeks ago, one of the world’s leading consumer cruise publications, Porthole Cruise Magazine, finally announced the results of its 16th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Among the biggest winners, Royal Holiday-affiliated lines sailed away with top honors in roughly 20 categories.

Porthole Cruise Magazine readers were asked to submit their cruise favorites in more than four dozen “Best Of” categories. These discerning cruisers evaluated countless ships, entertainment options, dining establishments, shore excursions, itineraries, and more, and then voiced their opinions by mail, by fax, and online. Editors tabulated the numbers and revealed passengers’ favorites at the end of November. A few of the winners are listed here:

* Best Megaship—The brand-new Norwegian Getaway impresses passengers with an array of entertainment, excellent dining, innovative performances, and gorgeous layout, making this ship tops among the largest vessels on the sea.

* Best Value-for-Money Cruise Line—Carnival has become known as the most affordable line for cruises, making it an especially attractive option for families.

* Best Line for Short Cruises—Its huge fleet and large choice of itineraries helped Carnival win top honors with cruisers who are looking for great cruises in limited time.

* Best Onboard Activities—Royal Caribbean International offers some of the most sought-after entertainment options in the industry, making it a favorite among active cruisers.

* Best Specialty Restaurants—With dining establishments offering everything from exquisite French cuisine to hearty hamburgers, cruisers are raving about the eating options on Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

* Best Theme Cruises—MSC knocked one out of the park this year with its fun Baseball Greats theme cruises.

A large number of other awards were given in other categories, as well. For example, cruise lines such as Princess, Norwegian, RCI, and Carnival all earned recognition for their excellent itineraries throughout the Caribbean, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans.

Attention all parrotheads! In less than a year, cruisers will be able to “waste away again in Margaritaville,” and actually live the lazy lyrics of Jimmy Buffet’s best island hits while relaxing on board one of the world’s most talked-about new cruise ships.

Cruisers who are fans of the laid-back melodies of the legendary singer/songwriter got some exciting news earlier this month when he announced a new partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). Starting in late 2015, passengers sailing on NCL’s brand-new Norwegian Escape will be able to kick back and enjoy the “get away from it all” atmosphere of the world’s first Margaritaville restaurant at sea. The dining experience will offer favorites like the “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and the “Who’s to Blame Margarita.”

The ship will also welcome aboard Buffet’s signature “5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar,” a beach-theme pub and music venue located right on The Waterfront. The tropical beats of the nightly live shows will entertain guests as they sip their favorite island cocktails in the Caribbean breeze.

The collaboration between Jimmy Buffet and NCL will not stop there, however. A 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar will be coming to NCL’s resort port at Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, and Margaritaville-branded eateries will open on its newest private island, Harvest Caye, Belize. In coming years, the theme restaurants and bars will also expand to other ships in NCL’s fleet.

Insiders at NCL are certainly looking forward to the new business deal. According to company executives, the easy-going, escapist vibe of Margaritaville is a perfect match for NCL’s fun-loving, “do it your way” attitude. It is especially fitting that the Margaritaville experience will debut on the Norwegian Escape. The ship, which will be the largest ship to homeport in Miami, will exclusively sail the serene Caribbean Sea, taking vacationers on seven-day cruises to island destinations like the Virgin Islands and The Bahamas year-round.