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Destination Tips

LEGO Coming Soon to MSC Cruise Ships

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Children sailing aboard MSC cruise ships will soon have a new and exciting place to play when the MSC Armonia relaunches later this month. MSC Cruises recently announced a partnership with the LEGO Group that will mean several additions to the entertainment options offered aboard the Italian cruise line’s vessels.

The first phase of the MSC/LEGO project will begin on the MSC Armonia, which is undergoing the final stages of a massive refurbishment. When the ship sets sail again in the latter half of November, she will sport a new, LEGO-themed play area for children. The toy company’s well-known DUPLO blocks will be available for young children 3 and under, while older children through age 11 will have access to piles of classic LEGO bricks and themed building sets.

In addition, both children and adults will enjoy other special activities. Over the course of a designated LEGO day on each cruise, children can enjoy LEGO building contests and a variety of games. LEGO enthusiasts will also have the chance to have their picture taken with Sailor Walkabout, the nautical-themed LEGO mascot. Children who take part in LEGO Experience Day will even receive a LEGO Junior Master Builder diploma to commemorate the fun.

For cruisers who want to take a bit of the fun home with them, select LEGO sets will be available for purchase in on-board shops. In fact, LEGO is even working with MSC to design a special MSC cruise ship LEGO set that will be offered exclusively on MSC vessels.

The LEGO features will be part of the total MSC Cruises experience on the MSC Armonia, available for free to all passengers. Best of all, the MSC Armonia is just the first ship in the MSC fleet to get the LEGO treatment. The complete LEGO experience will also be incorporated onto MSC’s newest vessels, which are scheduled to join the fleet in 2017.

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CruiseDestination Tips

The Princess Cruises Renewal Cruise!

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Whenever Royal Holiday travelers board a Princess Cruises they’re welcomed on board to a full course of culture, cuisine and local color. No fewer than 18 vessels explore destinations all over the world, and getting there is always a big part of the fun.

Princess Cruises has been continually lauded with awards ranging from:

  • Best Embarkation: Pacific Princess and Coral Princess from the Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Award, 2014
  • Best Cruises from the West Coast, again from the Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Award 2014
  • Best Wine Bar At Sea – Vines – USA Today 2014
  • Cruise Line with Highest Customer Satisfaction – TravelAge West Magazine Editor’s Picks 2013
  • Top 10 Large Cruise Lines – Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards 2011-2013
  • Top Large and Medium Cruise Ships – Conde Nast Traveler 2013
  • Best Cruise Itineraries – Travel Weekly Reader’s Choice Awards 2013

That’s among many, many others over the years.

But why choose Princess Cruises? See that “Highest Customer Satisfaction” award above? What do you think a satisfied cruise customer should look like?

Well, one of the characteristics of a satisfied cruise passenger is a feeling of absolute renewal. A new personality, a new hair-style, maybe even a outlook on life!

Princess Cruises visit everywhere from Japan to Europe to Alaska (they’re regular rated the TOP cruise to Alaska!).  Coming back is – always – a whole ship full of brand new people!

Take just Alaska.  Glaciers and forests and placid inland bays. Princess even operates a train called “Direct to the Wilderness” and just for Cruisers. Bears, deer, eagles and wildlife are frequently visible from the panoramic windows on the train, and when you venture a little further things just get better. Royal Holiday members go full-in for the eco-tourism, hiking, and bicicycling and Alaska is not a hot, tropical place to break a sweat. On the contrary, visitors year round need to dress appropriately to get the full experience.

Then take Europe.

  • Oslo
  • St. Petersburg
  • Helsinki
  • Stockholm

How about Kerry on the coast of Ireland – or your pick of Greek islands glistening in the sun? The fact is, every cruise is a chance to rediscover yourself in a place you’ve only distantly imagined, and every time one of those distant ideas becomes an idea, you become more fully, and totally renewed.

And then there’s onboard. Every vessel in the Princess Cruises fleet is equipped with fine – even elegant – finishings. You can have your hair done or any number of spa treatments. Lounge on the deck, take in some entertainment, and watch as distant destinations come at long last into view.

There on the horizon, there’s a part of you. And it’s all up to you to discover it. Talk to Membership Services about the Princess Cruises cruise that’s perfect for you. 2014 is scheduled with a tremendous number to choose from.

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CruiseCruise Tips

MSC: Enchanting Cruises for the Italian in all of us

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

One of the greatest pleasures of traveling on a cruise ship is the vastness of the sea and the chance to visit multiple – and very different – locations all in one trip. But any cruise veteran will tell you, the atmosphere and the service from the crew on board will still make all the difference. What if you could have all of that, but charged with the traditional warmth and charm of Italy?

The Mediterranean Shipping Company is the only 100% Italian-Owned and Operated cruise line – and the moment you board you’ll see the difference.

MSC has a presence in 45 countries and sails 168 different itineraries and into no less than 180 different ports. Easily the busiest cruise line in Europe, MSC sails well beyond the Mediterranean basin.

MSC is also world-famous for maintaining a super-modern fleet with loads of classic features. Ships are fitted with marble, Swarovski crystal, and lavish walnut and even onyx. That’s all intended to highlight the sense of design for which Italians are already world-famous. Anything less might be considered, well, un-Italian.

For kids, MSC Cruises ships take off with just as much fun and adventure as for anyone else. As a family company MSC pays extra attention to kids of all ages. Organized activities and licensed supervision is available for anyone from ages three to 17 and that’s at no extra cost, any time of day, and all day if you want.

Only Mexico, France and China come close to competing with Italy when it comes to food. And being Italian means serving up culinary highlights that no other cruise line can match. Royal Holiday travelers revel in things as simple as bread, pasta and tomato sauce, but of course there are lots of wines to choose from and the gelato is unmatched on the sea. Japanese, Tex-Mex and Chinese foods are well represented and options can vary depending on where you’re sailing to. Hands down, MSC offers some of the most spectacular food onboard any ship sailing anywhere.

Onboard entertainment? MSC is no slouch. Every passengers thrill to a different show and these are usually presented in two shifts so everyone fits in. Original Broadway shows, at no extra cost, are just part of the fun. Reservations are necessary but tickets are free and that’s just the beginning.

There are also casinos, discos, internet access, a library, a Formula 1 racing simulator, (just for kids, right?) plus a 4D cinema, duty-free shopping, and a water park with an indoor swimming pool. Outside of course there are waterfalls, and it’s just a short walk to the beauty salon, wellness spa, fitness centers and yoga classes. There are also tennis courts, a basketball court, running track and everything to keep you active and fit.

As unforgettable as Italy, the MSC Cruise of a lifetime can be part of your Royal Holiday. Members book cruise departing from Venice, Genoa and a few places closer to home. The Royal Holiday Cruise Team works very hard to find the cruise that’s just perfect for you, no matter what criteria you’re counting on meeting. If your standards are very high, MSC may be the perfect choice.

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Cruise News

Retrospective – A Look Back at the New Cruise Ships of 2013

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

The year 2013 has been an exciting one for cruisers, as a number of Royal Holiday-affiliated lines added several new ships to their fleets. Bigger and better, these new vessels represent the growing popularity of cruising as an affordable and unforgettable vacation option. Each of these ships expands on their sister ships’ innovative designs and modern technologies, all to enhance the fun and relaxation that cruisers seek during a vacation at sea.

MSC Preziosa

Launched in March 2013, the MSC Preziosa merges classic Mediterranean style with luxurious design. With grand staircases studded with Swarovski crystal and elegant touches like the upper deck “infinity” pool, this newest flagship of MSC Cruises also includes innovative dining at the first Eataly restaurant to open on the high seas. Just for fun, she also features Vertigo, the longest single-rider waterslide aboard any cruise ship.

Norwegian Breakaway

As the largest cruise ship to homeport in Manhattan, everything about the Norwegian Breakaway is big and bold. Her naming ceremony in early May 2013 featured her godmothers, The Rockettes, who also host dance classes and perform on board. Her hull glows with the colorful art of pop artist Peter Max, while New York-themed murals decorate every common area of the ship. Foodies can enjoy delicious pastries at sea at the iconic Carlo’s Bakery.

Royal Princess

Officially named at an elaborate traditional ceremony in June 2013, the beautiful Royal Princess was christened by Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. The elegant new ship boasts such features as a balcony on every outside cabin and an enchanting Vegas-style water and light show. In addition, her glass-enclosed SeaWalk extends over the side of the ship and allows passengers the thrill of standing directly over the rushing waves nearly 130 feet below.

While the launches of these brand new ships in 2013 mean more exciting choices for vacationers, cruising will only get better in the future. Dedicated cruisers are already looking forward to 2014, when several more ships are scheduled to make their maiden voyages.

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Destination Tips

Ocean Wear – Dressing for a Cruise Vacation

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Dressing for a cruise can be a little confusing for first-time passengers, and can even befuddle experienced cruisers now and then. The reason for this is that attitudes toward cruise attire have shifted significantly over the years. Prior to World War II, cruising was a formal affair enjoyed mainly by the wealthy. Cruise vacations became more affordable in the 1960s and began catering to more middle class passengers. By the 1990s, much of the formality had been replaced by more casual attitudes.

Today, cruise dress codes are relatively relaxed compared to 50 years ago, but they do vary from cruise line to cruise line. The best recommendation is to check the ship’s policy before packing in order to avoid any awkward surprises. In general, it is a good idea to consider five different situations when packing clothes for a cruise:

Lounging, Fitness, and Sports

The favorite daytime activity on most cruises is poolside lounging or taking advantage of the many shipboard sports and gym facilities. For these activities, of course, swimwear, shorts, tank tops, and athletic clothes are perfectly acceptable and expected.

Casual

For daytime activities away from the pool and courts, casual wear is generally fine: longer shorts, jeans, tee shirts, and other dress-down wear. For casual dining, most lido deck restaurants even allow flip-flops and a cover garment over a swimsuit.

Cruise Casual

When evening falls, parts of many ships might suggest a slightly more upscale dress code. Most of the time, “cruise casual” is encouraged at dinner and in most entertainment venues. This simply means a collared shirt and decent slacks or jeans for men, and a casual dress or slacks and a blouse for women.

Formal

Most cruises have one or two formal nights, as well. During these times, men are encouraged to dine in a suit or tuxedo, while women typically wear a nice cocktail dress or pantsuit. Some venues may encourage similar attire at all times—elegant restaurants or certain lounges, for example.

Excursions

How to dress for excursions varies by cruise and by destination. For sunny beach excursions, swimwear is the obvious choice. Urban excursions generally require comfortable shoes and casual wear suitable for a daytime lunch spot. A warm hat, sweater, or raincoat might also be wise choices depending upon the exact location.

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Cruise Deals

Celebrate the Holidays with a Cruise

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

While everyone else is frantically cooking and cleaning for the holidays, savvy vacationers are packing their bags and looking forward to a relaxing holiday cruise.

Holiday cruises are an increasingly popular way to spend the winter season. They are a favorite of many travelers who want to celebrate the classic winter holidays—Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, or New Year—without all the worry that ordinarily comes with long car trips, hosting family, or entertaining guests. Spending a holiday on a cruise gives vacationers a chance to focus on being with their loved ones and observing the holiday in a relaxed, exotic locale with beautiful weather. At the same time, holiday cruise passengers are sure to come away with countless memories that will last a lifetime.

Some novice cruisers may worry that taking a holiday cruise will somehow detract from their celebration. After all, how “Christmasy” can Christmas be on a warm, sunny beach surrounded by azure Caribbean waters? The reality is quite the opposite. In fact, cruise lines that set sail during the holidays go above and beyond to help passengers celebrate the season. Every line offers elaborate dinner plans for the holidays, as well as an array of activities and parties to keep passengers happy during this special time of year. Of course, fellow cruisers, too, often deck the halls with their own wreaths, menorahs, and other festive decor. All this means that a cruise ship is full of holiday spirit from stem to stern.

Before heading off to reserve a last-minute holiday cruise, there are a few things to keep in mind. Holiday cruises are quite popular with families. Passengers bringing kids will likely prefer larger ships, which tend to attract lots of other families with children. These bigger ships also typically offer many programs and facilities especially for those younger travelers. For these reasons, big ship holiday cruises have plenty of activities for adults and youngsters alike, and are a good choice for families.

For those seeking a quieter holiday vacation, smaller ships generally provide a more intimate setting with fewer children on board. These smaller vessels sometimes also have the advantage of stopping in ports that larger ships can’t visit. Another alternative for a more laid-back trip is to take a longer one: cruises of a week or less are more popular with families, while longer cruises are favored by a more mature crowd.

No matter the reason for taking a holiday cruise, there are several options available. The experts at any major cruise line or travel agency are always happy to help you arrange the perfect vacation at sea.

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