One extraordinary yacht, one incredible voyage, and 450 godparents. Those are the numbers behind the highly anticipated launch of Seabourn Odyssey, the newest member of the Seabourn fleet, in June 2009. Those fortunate enough to secure one of the few remaining spots aboard Odyssey’s maiden voyage will share the unprecedented honor of being named a “godparent” of the new vessel - a distinction usually reserved for a celebrity or otherwise noteworthy personality. It’s an honor that will be recognized for the duration of the luxury yacht’s seagoing life.
Each passenger aboard Odyssey’s maiden voyage, scheduled to depart Venice, Italy, on June 24, 2009, will have his or her name engraved on a plaque to be displayed on board the sleek yacht. An early-evening ceremony to christen the new yacht is planned to coincide with the summer sunset over the domes and steeples of Venice’s skyline - with all 450 godparents taking part in the momentous event. Seabourn Odyssey will then make its stately way from the canals to the lagoon and beyond - a gala, 14-day voyage exploring the Dalmatian coast, the Greek Isles, and Turkey.
Highlights of the cruise will include sailing into the dramatic fjord of Kotor in Montenegro, a day of water sports from the yacht’s marina while anchored off the Greek Isle of Mylos, and a signature Exclusively Seabourn evening reception and concert in the torch-lit ruins of Ephesus in Turkey.
(0) Comments (Leave a Comment)Filed under: The Yachts of Seabourn Posted by Michael on 07/22/08
During Royal Caribbean’s earnings call yesterday the company announced a significant cost savings initiative that is expected to reduce spending by approximately $125 million annually.
“Too much of our profitability is being eroded by the increase in fuel prices. This is unacceptable and we are evaluating everything we do to find ways to do it more efficiently and effectively,” said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “While our brands continue to attract premium prices even in this difficult environment, it is imperative that we find ways to reduce our costs.”
As part of the restructuring, the company announced it is eliminating approximately 400 shore-side positions. In addition, the company announced it had discontinued some non-core operations, including The Scholar Ship, an educational partnership aimed at college students studying aboard cruise ships. The company expects to incur charges related to this restructuring of approximately $15 million, or $0.07 per share, in the third quarter 2008.
(0) Comments (Leave a Comment)Filed under: Azamara Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International Posted by Michael on 07/22/08
… and we thought that last week was a slow week! With the exception of a few personnel moves it’s been a pretty sleepy week.
Crystal announce that they will be offering acupuncture at sea and Carnival will be adding the Carnival Seaside Theater to 5 ships.
This week we discussed how your friends, family, and co-workers can be used to get you a free cruise - that’s right group cruising!
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Filed under: Carnival Cruise Lines, Crystal Cruises, Podcast Posted by Michael on 07/16/08
Carnival’s Seaside Theater which first debuted on Carnival Liberty in 2005 and is now featured on 5 of the line’s ships will be added to 4 more ships according to Cruise Community. (registration required).
Carnival Destiny and Carnival Triumph will get the poolside jumbo LED screens while in drydock later this year and Carnival Conquest and Carnival Glory will get screens added next year.
In addition Carnival Dream which is currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in September of 2009 will also boast the Seaside Theater.
(0) Comments (Leave a Comment)Filed under: Carnival Cruise Lines Posted by Michael on 07/16/08
Enriching its portfolio of wellness opportunities, Crystal Cruises is introducing onboard acupuncture, along with a menu of Chinese herbs revered for restoring and enhancing health, beauty and longevity. A menu of optional acupuncture treatments, launching this month on Crystal Serenity, focuses on weight loss, pain management, stress reduction, detoxification, smoking cessation, facial rejuvenation and even sea sickness.
Acupuncture is a technique of inserting and manipulating fine needles into specific points on the body to ease pain and for other therapeutic purposes. According to the World Health Organization and other reputable entities, acupuncture helps relieve aches and pains; stimulate weight loss; alleviate stress; detoxify the body; smoking cessation; seasickness; and anti-aging.
The Crystal acupuncture program includes:
- · Onboard acupuncturist - Nancy Kerastas, Crystal Serenity’s licensed acupuncture physician, has been practicing the art since 2002;
- · Menus of Chinese herbs - Includes remedies that reactivate the body’s fat-burning process; stabilize blood sugar metabolism; and relieve swollen or immobile joints; and
- · Shipboard seminars - Three to five classes will be held per cruise, discussing acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and Feng Shui practices and benefits.
Guests receive pre-session consultations to discuss their conditions and medical histories. Cost is $150 for a 60-minute session and can be booked through Crystal’s Feng Shui-designed spa.
Crystal also offers complimentary yoga, Pilates and newly introduced “Tour de Spin” cycling classes, and an exclusive Walk on Water® program utilizing weighted vests to increase resistance. The line continues its partnership with the esteemed Cleveland Clinic to feature onboard lectures and seminars with leading medical experts.
In December 2008, and in 2009 both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity host Mind, Body & Spirit theme cruises, focusing on general wellness through classes and discussions with guest instructors in Tai Chi, yoga, Pilates and general fitness.
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