Saturday, January 19, 2008

Ring in the New Year

2008 is upon us and it’s now time to start thinking about your next cruise getaway. This year, many new ships will be hitting the high seas, new destinations will be visited and more exotic itineraries have been added. But what does this mean to you? If you love cruising or have ever considered a cruise vacation, then it means a lot.

This year’s number one, do not miss destination is without a doubt, Northern Europe. There are nearly ten cruise lines sailing throughout Scandinavia, Russia and Northern Europe this summer including the yet to be launched Carnival Splendor, which will sail a 12-night itinerary from Dover. Marvel at the beauty of the Norwegian Fjords and discover the Baltic capitals on a range of itineraries from 6 to 14 nights.

2008 will bring a number of new ships into service. In addition to the Carnival Splendor, cruisers will get to experience the MSC Poesia, the MSC Fantasia, Holland America’s Eurodam and the much anticipated Celebrity Solstice. These ships are bigger and better than ever, offering more public space, more balconies, more restaurants and lounges, and so much more.

Another trend in 2008 is an increase in cruising from the west coast. This year you’ll see more ships sailing from Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco then ever before. Disney will operate 7-day Mexican Riviera cruises all summer long aboard the Disney Magic, NCL is offering five consecutive cruises to Mexico and Princess is also bringing back their popular Mexican Riviera cruises in 2008.

Whether you decide to cruise popular and historical Northern Europe, experience the exotic charm of Mexico or simply kick back and relax on a tropical Caribbean cruise, 2008 is your year to set sail.

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

There's a Monster Coming!!

In 2009, the largest Cruise Ship ever built will debut. Royal Caribbean just laid the keel on its new monster ship, codenamed Genesis. This ship will be the first of two identically sized ships ordered by Royal Caribbean and scheduled to be docked in Fort Lauderdale, FL. It will also be the world’s most expensive cruise ship with a cost of $1.24 billion. This vessel will hold up to 6,400 passengers. Here is an artist’s rendering of what this new behemoth will look like.


At this point we have very few details on what will actually be onboard the ship. We know that all parties privy to any of Genesis' innovations (shipyard workers and RCI execs) have signed non-disclosure agreements.

But, there are some people talking. Speculation has ranged from the bizarre (onboard plastic surgery) to the more reasonable (flight simulators) to the mundane (two FlowRiders rather than the one already on the Freedom-class trio).

Here's what we do know:

  • The naming of Genesis 1 and 2 is likely to take place in May of 2008. According to Royal Caribbean representatives, neither ship will be called Genesis of the Seas. Revelations on itineraries will also appear at around the middle of next year.

  • Both Genesis ships will homeport in Ft. Lauderdale's Port Everglades for at minimum their first year of service.

  • As of right now, no ports are prepared to handle Genesis -- both in terms of increased passenger load and needed port infrastructure.

  • A new Jamaican cruise port, Falmouth, is being constructed to accommodate the coming RCI beasts. The port is one of at least six that will be ready to accommodate the Genesis vessels in the Eastern and Western Caribbean when the ships launch.

    I, for one, cannot wait for this ship and I will be booking a cabin on this new monster ship as soon as Royal Caribbean releases cabins for booking. It is just my humble opinion, but I believe this ship will be a massive hit in the Caribbean market!!
  • The Exotic Islands of the Southern Caribbean

    Vibrant blue waters, white-sand beaches, swaying palms and the sounds of a steel drum band often come to mind when thinking about the Caribbean. Been there, done that also comes to many experienced travelers minds.

    Many cruise travelers have had the opportunity to visit the most popular islands in the Eastern and Western Caribbean, but how many of us have sailed south to discover the more exotic, unspoiled islands? But what makes these southern islands more exotic than their northern counterparts? Part of it is due to the fact that most of the Southern Caribbean islands still enjoy a strong colonial influence. The majority of the southern islands, at one time or another have belonged to larger European countries like France, the Netherlands and the U.K. and many of these islands are still considered territories. Think of the Southern Caribbean as a little piece of European charm surrounded by a warm tropical paradise and you’ll understand why they are so special.

    Just east of Puerto Rico, lies the island of Tortola. The largest of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola is home to some of the best white-sand beaches around as well as rugged mountain roads that lead to breathtaking views. In close proximity to Tortola is the neighboring island of Virgin Gorda with her unusual rock formations know as “The Baths.” These huge granite rocks give way to quiet coves and lush grottos where swimmers can soak their cares away in the hidden pools.

    Heading south east, you’ll come to the island of Antigua, which is one of the largest boating islands in the Caribbean and home to 366 beautiful beaches; one for every day of the year. Just southwest of Antigua lies the island of St. Kitts. This beautiful island boasts pink sand beaches, rolling green hills and dormant volcanoes. While you are there, you must visit the 350-year-old Romney Manor Estate and Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, two of the must see sites on St. Kitts.

    Farther south in the Lesser Antilles, you’ll find the French island of Martinique as well as St. Lucia, Barbados and Grenada. From the islands’ architecture to its enchanting local flavor, Martinique exudes a distinct French feeling you won’t be able to miss. The lush island of St. Lucia with its twin Piton peaks offers the best of both worlds. Get back to nature as you explore verdant rain forests, discover striking waterfalls and unique sulfur springs, then kick back and relax on the unspoiled golden beaches. The once British controlled island of Barbados is rich with English influence which is apparent in its sports (like Cricket) as well as its English architecture that dates back to the 17th century. The spice capital of the Caribbean, Grenada is the most fragrant of the islands where you will find nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon and cocoa on many of the spice estates. This island is also considered one of the most picturesque ports in the Caribbean with its lush vegetation, mountainous terrain and colorful colonial architecture.

    To the west of the Lesser Antilles, you’ll find the Netherlands Antilles and the island of Bonaire and Curacao. Bonaire is famous for its diving with 100-ft visibility and a colorful array of tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs. Dutch influence can be seen throughout the island of Curacao, especially in its architecture which is a replication of the houses built in Amsterdam but painted with a distinctly Caribbean color palette. Be sure to explore Hato Caves where you’ll find two large caverns with ancient Indian petroglyphs and a mystical underground lake.

    So when you’re ready to head to a warmer climate but you want something new, head south and discover the European enriched, unspoiled islands of the Southern Caribbean. With so many choices to choose from, you won’t be disappointed.

    Sunday, January 6, 2008

    European River Cruising, Is It For You?

    The rivers and canals of Europe are open for travel. As many as 20,000 total miles of inland waterways let travelers absorb European culture at a relaxed, leisurely and up-close pace. The waterways of Austria, The Czech Republic, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Russia and others now have many options to meet the growing demand for river cruising.

    No longer an obscure way to see old Europe, travel by river is one of the best ways to venture out and take in the heart of the continent. Travelers who return from river cruises carry memories of very intimate encounters with the countryside, local people, and fellow passengers. River cruise and barging travelers inevitably become true enthusiasts for the experience.

    A traveler can journey Europe's waterways in a variety of ways. River cruising most often refers to river going cruise ships typically carrying fewer than 250 passengers. As such, river cruising ships are much smaller than mass-market, ocean-going vessels, but as river boats go, are on the larger end of the scale. Western and Central Europe have many river routes to offer the larger cruise boats. Popular itineraries include the Danube visiting Hungary, Austria and Germany and the Elbe River through Germany and the Czech Republic. In France, the Rhone and the Soane meander through Provence and Burgundy, while the Seine takes passengers through Paris and Giverny. In Northern Italy, the Po offers exciting opportunities with a variety of river cruise companies. Finally, the Volga, connecting St. Petersburg and Moscow provides a decidedly different way to port between these two magnificent cities. River cruises tend to be affairs of luxury, with an emphasis on informal, but upscale travel. Relaxation and intensive sightseeing are the main activities, as organized entertainment is somewhat limited on most river cruises, except for the occasional lecture or sing-along. Mostly, the crew allows passengers to enjoy their time as they see fit.

    Cabins on larger river vessels vary in size from 90 square feet on older ships to over 200 square feet on newer. Most rooms are outside cabins, meaning they have windows for optimal sightseeing. The least expensive cabins are lower in the boat, while passengers pay more for higher rooms with better views. Cabins come with basic amenities, such as hair dryers and televisions, and are often very nicely furnished. The larger river cruise vessels have telephones and even Internet service.

    Many first time river cruisers are delighted to discover that, unlike ocean cruising, there is very little boat motion. The mandated slow speeds and flat waters of the rivers ensure a quiet, placid voyage. It is often difficult when not on deck to even know the vessel is underway!

    On longer trips, 10 days or more, the typical river cruise passenger is a well-traveled individual often over the age of 60. Shorter cruises typically attract a younger crowd. River cruises on the larger vessels do not always allow children under 12 as passengers, so make sure to check on any restrictions for families. The passenger manifest will be a mix of European and North American travelers, but most crews speak at least some English, and many are fluent. Individuals who require physical assistance when traveling should check with their travel consultant to determine the accessibility of any particular vessel for disabled passengers.

    Meals have always been a special part of cruising, and river cruises have maintained that tradition. On river cruise vessels, food is a key part of the experience, prepared by a dedicated chef, the ship's captain, or a restaurateur in a small village. Europeans take great pride in their culinary skills, and practically everyone who has ever cruised along the rivers and canals of Europe has at least one story about an unforgettable meal or food experience. Special dietary considerations can often be accommodated if requested early in the booking process. On self-drive barges, travelers can stock up on provisions from the villages and cook on board, or splurge at dining opportunities along the way.

    Crewed barges with meal service and more amenities are sometimes referred to as "Hotel Barges": smaller vessels with a passenger capacity of as few as six to as many as 50. Hotel barges tend to be much slower than river cruisers, and due to their smaller size, can enter more narrow waterways like canals, in addition to the larger rivers. Hotel barges range from Spartan accommodations to luxurious rooms with gourmet meals, fine wines, and bicycles for self-guided shore excursions. Cabins vary in size and most often have private baths with showers. Many barges have saunas and hot tubs on deck. Most are without telephones or Internet service, though, as such modernity is typically absent in the barge market.

    The peak season for river cruising is much the same as European travel in general, late spring through mid-fall and early November. The shoulder season, a real value, ranges from early March through mid-May. The autumn months coincide with grape season, and several cruise lines are fully booked during this time by wine connoisseurs. Finally, April is tulip season and cruises in and around the Netherlands are particularly popular then.

    As always, pack as lightly as possible, as space on the smaller barges can be at a premium. Your cruise operator will no doubt provide you with a list of recommended items to bring, but the usual recommendations of hats, sunscreen and sunglasses are often overlooked but very important, because so much of your time will be spent outdoors.

    Regarding travel budgets... amenities offered by the cruise and barge operators and the travel season determine costs. For high-end river cruises and hotel barges, $2,100 per person, double occupancy and cruise only, is a common brochure cost for a seven day cruise. 12 day cruises often range from $2,800 upwards, but discounts are usually available for most itineraries through your travel agent. Other cruises may be had for as little as $800.00 for a seven day itinerary. Costs typically include all meals, tour excursions, and accommodations. Tips and gratuities are expected, ranging from $10 - $35 dollars per day. Your travel consultant will have many resources on hand for finding the best possible values.

    Europe and its waterways await you!