Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 to Make San Francisco Maiden Call
Queen Mary 2will make maritime history when she makes her maiden call to San Francisco on February 4-5, 2007. A rare overnight visit, Queen Mary 2's arrival in the City by the Bay is cause for celebration, as the iconic ship, which measures four times the height of San Francisco's famed Telegraph Hill and nearly 280 feet longer than the height of the Transamerica Pyramid, will make this her only visit to the West Coast in 2007.
Thousands of maritime enthusiasts and well-wishers are expected to view the ship as she sails beneath the Golden Gate Bridge at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 4. Surrounded by a flotilla of ships, yachts and escorted by San Francisco fire boats, Queen Mary 2 will circle the harbor before docking at Pier 27 at 8:00 p.m. On Monday, February 5, local dignitaries will board the ship for a tour and luncheon prior to the ship's 8:00 p.m. departure.
The ship's arrival can be seen from several excellent viewing locations, including:
* The Golden Gate Bridge - Vista points on both north and south sides
of bridge
* Pier 45 and Pier 39
* Fort Mason
* Aquatic Park
* Crissy Field
Earlier this month the two great ladies had a royal rendezvous in Ft Lauderdale where the Queen Mary 2 embarked on her first-ever 80-day World Cruise and Queen Elizabeth 2 began her Silver Jubilee World Cruise—an exotic 108-day 
voyage marking her 25th trip around the world.
Celebrity Cruises Names Its Third Solstice-Class Ship
Celebrity Cruises kicked off 2007 by announcing the name of the third “celestial” ship in its 118,000 gross-registered-ton Solstice-class fleet. Celebrity Eclipse will make its maiden voyage in 2010, following sister ships Celebrity Solstice in 2008 and Celebrity Equinox in 2009, bringing the Celebrity fleet to 13 ships.
Like its sister ships, Celebrity Eclipse will have larger standard staterooms, 90 percent of which will be outside, and 85 percent of those will have verandas. The 2,850-guest ships will have an exceptional range of guest-inspired services and amenities, and will measure 1,033 feet in length and 121 feet in width. German shipbuilder Meyer Werft will build the new tonnage. “Naming Celebrity Eclipse brings us that much closer to making this phenomenal new class a reality,” said Celebrity Cruises President Dan Hanrahan. “Our brand is in a period of significant growth and momentum, and our new Solstice class exemplifies that expansion in an incredibly exciting way.”
The announcement of Celebrity Eclipse comes just one month after the news of Celebrity Quest, the third ship in the line’s Celebrity Expeditions class of smaller ships designed to round out the brand with tailored-to-market products in exotic locations.
Don't Miss the Boat—Go Cruising With JetBlue
And now you can cruise with JetBlue Airways. The airline announced this week that customers can now purchase cruises on www.cruises.jetblue.com. Customers are guaranteed the lowest cruise price available*, and cruises on 17 cruise lines are available for purchase on the low-fare, low-cost airline's website. "Our customers told us they love flying JetBlue to their port-of-call, but buying their cruise from one place and their air travel from another website was a hassle," said Trey Urbahn, EVP, Chief Revenue Officer for JetBlue. "As of today, www.jetblue.com offers customers one-stop shopping for cruises and JetBlue air travel, giving our customers the confidence that they are getting the best available deal, and making the purchase as pleasant as the trip."
Featured cruises, last minute deals and information for first-time cruisers are available at cruises.jetblue.com. Cruises through June 2008 are available for sale. Available cruises are not limited to those arriving or departing from cities JetBlue currently serves. "Our customers have come to rely on JetBlue's service, so even if we can't fly you to your port-of-call, you can still purchase your cruise at
cruises.jetblue.com," Urbahn said. "And who knows? We may start
flying to your favorite port sooner than you think!"
*Only cruises purchased through JetBlue Cruises are eligible for Best Price Guarantee. JetBlue Cruises will refund 110% of the difference if a lower rate for the same cruise is found after purchase Other restrictions apply. Best Price Guarantee applies only to the cost of the cruise (including port charges).
Oceania Cruises Celebrates Its Fourth Anniversary
Oceania Cruises celebrated its fourth anniversary this month. As the company enters its fifth year of service, it has quickly grown from a start-up brand to a driving force with a global presence and a fleet that sails to all seven continents. "As I reflect back on the past four years, Oceania Cruises' success has been the fulfillment of a dream and it has exceeded my greatest expectations. The tremendous support we received from our travel agent partners, the feedback and guidance from our guests, and the passion and dedication of every member of our organization were all critical components of this success," stated Frank Del Rio, Chairman and CEO of Oceania Cruises.
Founded in October 2002, Oceania Cruises officially opened its corporate offices on January 6, 2003 and took its first guest reservation on January 21 of that year. Regatta sailed her first voyage on July 5, 2003, followed by Insignia on April 3, 2004 and Nautica on November 27, 2005, and the line has since carried almost 125,000 guests. Not surprisingly, the line has culled tremendous loyalty among repeat guests, known as Oceania Club members.
Aker Yards To Establish A Foothold In Asia
Aker Yards is taking a strategic position in the fast growing Asian market for offshore vessels by setting up a shipyard in Vietnam. The shipyard will be a joint venture between Aker Yards (70%) and Amanda Group (30%). The Amanda Group with headquarter in Singapore has extensive industrial experience in Vietnam.
The shipyard will be located in Vung Tau, centrally located in the heart of Vietnams growing offshore operations. The new yard in Vietnam will strengthen Aker Yards ability to serve its international customers in the region.
Aker Yards will invest US$16 million over a period of three years. The yard will deliver the first vessel in 2009, and will in full operation have an annual capacity of 3-4 vessels, dependent of vessel type and size.
Aker Yards ASA is an international shipbuilding group focusing on sophisticated vessels. Aker Yards comprises 17 yards in Brazil, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Romania and Ukraine. Aker Yards is part of the Aker Group (www.akerasa.com ), a leading multi-industry powerhouse with more than 50,000 employees and annual revenues of EUR 10 billion. Aker owns 50.4 percent of Aker Yards shares. The Aker Group is also a significant participant in the oil & gas business as well as the fisheries industry.
June Maiden Voyage Of ‘American Star’ On The Chesapeake Bay
The American Star will enter service on June 2, 2007, and begin its inaugural season with a seven-night maiden voyage on the Chesapeake Bay.
Departing from Baltimore, Maryland, the American Star will be the fourth American Cruise Lines vessel to cruise the smooth waters of the Chesapeake Bay. This exciting journey through the cradle of American History visits ports steeped in Colonial heritage where settlements began and battles were won. Passengers will explore the living history of Williamsburg and Yorktown, VA, the Chesapeake Maritime Museum on charming St. Michaels, MD, and Annapolis, MD, for a tour of the United States Naval Academy. The bay area will delight the visitors as they explore a wide variety of wildlife like bald eagles and ospreys, and diverse communities of fish and shellfish, including the delicious Chesapeake crab, served onboard during the cruise. The 100-passenger American Star will be similar in size and modern design to the American Spirit, but will feature more staterooms with private verandahs.
Celebrity Cruises Ends Its Long-Term Affiliation With Michel Roux
Celebrity Cruises announced plans this week to evolve its fleetwide culinary program, ending its affiliation with Master Chef Michel Roux. The mutual agreement coincides with the end of Roux's current contract with Celebrity. "Chef Roux has offered valuable culinary consultation and direction since the Celebrity brand was founded, and played an integral role in helping our brand achieve the recognition it maintains today for offering fresh, gourmet cuisine," said Celebrity's President Dan Hanrahan. "We are very grateful to Chef Roux for the foundation he helped us establish, and are confident in our ability to continue to deliver an extraordinary dining experience for our guests across the fleet."
Every Celebrity ship has a highly experienced Food and Beverage team, headed by executive chefs and food and beverage managers who honed their skills in some of Europe's finest restaurants and hotels. They completed intensive training led by Chef Roux both during Chef Roux's onboard visits totaling well over 100 during the 15-year partnership and also, in the case of a few of Celebrity's most promising chefs, training at his Waterside Inn restaurant in England. Similarly, the Food and Beverage Operations team based at Celebrity's headquarters in Florida bring extensive land-based and shipboard culinary experience enabling them to effectively direct and complement the shipboard colleagues.
Silversea’s CEO Albert Peter Offers Biweekly Column On Company Website
Silversea Cruises has announced its chief executive, Albert Peter, has posted the first of what will become twice-monthly commentaries on the company's website www.silversea.com. Titled "The Art of Luxury Travel: Commentaries by Albert Peter, CEO," the new website feature will enable Peter to communicate directly with consumers, travel agents and the media, offering personal insights on luxury travel and good living.
For the first time, the chief executive officer of a major luxury cruise line will offer insider views and opinions about the luxury travel lifestyle, and the ultra-luxury cruise experience in particular, on a regular basis to anyone with a computer. Peter, who carefully avoids the taint of a pitchman persona in his leadership style, is determined to provide commentaries that will not be perceived as commercials but rather as the personal reflections of a business executive and world traveler who also happens to be a connoisseur of the good life.
"I want visitors to our website to have a direct link to the executive office," said Peter. "By providing commentaries on a variety of topics, I hope to keep our guests, travel agents, potential clients, and the media up-to-date on new developments and innovations in the exclusive world of luxury travel . . .and I believe my new column offers an effective and intimate way to connect with the public.”
Visitors to the company's website can now find a navigational link on the homepage that guides them directly to Albert Peter's commentaries.
Carnival Corp & PLC Signs Letter Of Intent For New P&O Ship
Carnival Corporation & plc has signed a letter of intent for a new 116,000-ton ship for its P&O Cruises brand. The new vessel, which will have 3,076 lower passenger berths, will be built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri at its Monfalcone yard, at an estimated all-in cost of €535 million. The ship is scheduled for delivery in spring 2010. Externally, the vessel will be similar to P&O Cruises Ventura, which is scheduled to enter service in spring 2008, but the new product features and interior design will be announced at a future date.
This latest ship order will bring the total number of vessels in the P&O Cruises fleet to seven, including five existing ships, as well as the new Ventura, which will be Britain’s largest cruise ship when it enters service in April 2008. The new ship will further enhance P&O Cruises’ reputation as the only company building cruise ships specifically for Britain.
The building slot at Fincantieri being utilized for this new P&O Cruises vessel will result in a modification to the delivery date of the 130,000-ton newbuild for Carnival Cruise Lines announced in mid-December 2006. The Carnival vessel will now enter service in spring 2011 instead of summer 2010 as previously announced. Explained Micky Arison, chairman and CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc, “It had been our intention all along to schedule delivery of the P&O Cruises ship for 2010 and the Carnival Cruise Lines vessel for 2011. However, because we completed the agreement for the Carnival newbuild first, we temporarily placed it in the first available shipyard slot pending finalization of the P&O Cruises agreement.”
Carnival Corporation & plc now has 20 new ships on order, 14 of which are being constructed by Fincantieri.
Royal Caribbean Announces Offering of Senior Notes
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced that it has commenced an offering of its fixed rate Senior Notes due 2014. The net proceeds of the offering are intended to be used to refinance short-term debt incurred in connection with the acquisition of Pullmantur S.A., and the balance, if any, for general corporate purposes.
The Senior Notes will not be registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.
Royal Caribbean Charts A Course Toward Trans-Fat-Free Cruise Vacations
Royal Caribbean International will become the first cruise line to make the move toward removing trans fat from its menus beginning March 1, 2007, culminating in a fully trans-fat-free menu fleetwide by the end of this year. Effective immediately, trans-fat-free frying oil will replace the old pour-and-fry oil originally used in food preparation, and entirely-new, trans-fat-free menu options will be introduced to Royal Caribbean’s menus. “Vegetable oils that have undergone hydrogenation result in a type of fat that doctors have linked to serious health risks including diabetes, high blood pressure and increased cholesterol levels,” said Michael Bayley, senior vice president, Total Guest Satisfaction. “If we can offer guests a healthier serving of the foods they love by switching to trans-fat-free oils, while maintaining the same level of satisfaction, why wouldn’t we make the switch?”
The trans-fat-free oil was put to the test onboard Navigator of the Seas last November. The conclusion was that, not only is the trans-fat-free oil healthier for guests, but it provides a better tasting product.
Royal Caribbean is working jointly with all onboard food and beverage partners as well as suppliers to ensure that a full transition to a trans-fat-free menu will take place fleetwide by the end of this year.
Royal Caribbean Selects HI-FOG Sprinkler System for Genesis Project
The Finnish-based Marioff Company’s HI-FOG high-pressure water mist system has been selected for fire protection on Royal Caribbean International's 220,000 ton Genesis newbuild. The system will provide more than 13,000 sprinklers across all accommodation, public, service and machinery spaces. In addition, HI-FOG nozzles will be installed to protect the laundry and galley ducts as well as the deep-fat fryers.
Two Cruise Vessels Receive Perfect Scores From The CDC
In December, two cruise vessels—Regent Seven Seas Cruises’® flagship vessel Seven Seas Mariner® and Oceania Cruises’ Regatta—passed the United States Public Health inspection with a perfect score of 100 points.
For the Seven Seas Mariner, this marks the third time she has achieved this score, making her the only cruise vessel in recent maritime history to receive a perfect score three times. “Since the inception of the Regent brand, we have established ourselves as an industry leader through our attention to detail – be it the cleanliness of our facilities or our service to guests. Today's achievement is especially rewarding, as it validates the commitment of the Seven Seas Mariner crew and staff to the health and safety of our guests,” said Mark Conroy, president of Regent.
As for Oceania Cruises, receiving a perfect score for the Regatta caps a banner year for the four-year-old cruise company, one in which the company operated all three ships for a full year, introduced private luxury cabanas to the cruise industry, expanded its destinations to include all seven continents, and ended the year by partnering with Lehman Brothers and UBS Securities to purchase its three-ship fleet.
America’s Cup Sailing Race Returns to Europe after 156 Years
To welcome the competitors for the America’s Cup next year, Valencia is opening itself to the sea. For the first time in more than 150 years—from June 23 to July 7, 2007—Europe will host sailing’s most prestigious event when yachtsmen from ten countries battle it out as the Swiss Alinghi team defends its title against 11 other teams.
In 1851 Queen Victoria watched the last competition in Europe as the yacht America representing the New York Yacht Club beat 15 British vessels racing around the Isle of Wight. Since then, America’s Cup races have only been held in Britain, the U.S., Australia and New Zealand. Reliable wind conditions, year-round temperate weather and the promise of a race that will bring spectators closer to the sailing action were key factors in convincing officials that Valencia would be the best venue. Preceding the America’s Cup event, is the Louis Vuitton Act 13 Fleet Race from April 3 to 7, and the Louis Vuitton Cup, April 16 to June 12. The winner of the final Act goes up against the Alinghi team at the Cup races in Valencia.
Royal Caribbean Agrees To Over $1 Million Payout To Estate of George Smith
Royal Caribbean has agreed to pay more than $1 million to the estate of a Connecticut man who vanished during his honeymoon cruise of the Mediterranean in 2005. George Allen Smith IV, 26, of Greenwich, disappeared from Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas between Greece and Turkey after what appeared to be a late night of drinking. The FBI is investigating, but no one has been charged and no body was ever found.
In settling, the Florida-based cruise line denied any wrongdoing. Royal Caribbean believes the agreement submitted to the Probate Court is a fair and equitable resolution in the tragic death of George Smith, it said in a statement issued January 4. “We believe a lengthy and costly lawsuit would have served no one’s interests, and, in the end, would not have achieved results that were as full, fair or complete as those outlined in this agreement. We sincerely hope the Probate Court will approve the settlement, and, in so doing, allow Jennifer Hagel Smith to move forward in her life.”
The agreement, which is subject to a judge's approval, was filed in Connecticut probate court, which declared Smith dead in 2005. Royal Caribbean, reportedly, will pay $950,000 to Smith's estate and reimburse his widow, Jennifer Hagel Smith, for legal costs up to $110,000.
According to an article in the Philadelphia Inquirer, Hagel Smith said she will start a fund in memory of her husband with an initial donation of $25,000 that the cruise line will match.
Carnival UK Launches £10 Million January Sales Boost For 2007 Holidays
Carnival UK, encompassing four of the UK’s biggest selling cruise lines—P&O
Cruises, Princess Cruises, Ocean Village and Cunard—launched its largest ever sales campaign in January.
Having grown by 17% in 2006, the cruise market is expected to grow by a further 8% in 2007 to 1.35 million, making 2007 the biggest ever year for cruise and making cruising one of the fastest growing holiday choices.
Between the four brands £10 million will be spent to encourage UK holidaymakers to think ahead to their summer holiday in 2007, and to book a cruise holiday early.
“There has never been a better time to book a cruise, says Carnival UK managing director David Dingle. “People who book early will continue to have the best range of choice – of cabin, of ship and of itinerary. They will also get the best price, as
fares will once again rise going forward into the season. This is especially true for families. They have the best chance of getting free, or heavily discounted, child places available on family cabins by booking well ahead.”
Royal Caribbean International Names Third Ship In Freedom Class
Royal Caribbean International today announced that the line’s third and final Freedom-class ship will be named Independence of the Seas. The ship, currently under construction at Aker Yards in Turku, Finland, is set to make her debut in May 2008. She will follow Liberty of the Seas, which makes her entrance into New York City harbor May 3, 2007. “Independence of the Seas will have all of the signature elements of her sister ships, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas, making the Freedom-class ships the most innovative and forward-looking class of ships in the cruise industry,” said Adam Goldstein, president for Royal Caribbean International. At 160,000 GRT and holding 3,634 guests double-occupancy, Independence of the Seas will share the title of the world’s largest cruise ship with Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas. Among new programs and onboard embellishments yet to be announced, amenities on Independence of the Seas will include the popular innovations already found on her sister ships including the FlowRider® surf simulator; the H20 Zone aqua park; cantilevered whirlpools, suspended 112 feet above the ocean; an ice-skating rink; a boxing ring; and the 1,215-square-foot Presidential Family Suite, which sleeps up to 14.
Image Signs Photo Concession Contract With Celebrity Cruises
Cayman-based Image, the largest shipboard photography concessionaire in the cruise industry, has signed an exclusive, long-term agreement to provide photo concession services on all existing Celebrity Cruises ships, as well as the planned Solstice class of newbuilds beginning in 2008. With the addition of eight ships within the Celebrity fleet, Image will have photo concessions on 50 ships operating worldwide.
Image is to provide a state-of-the-art, fully digital photo system on Celebrity ships, featuring Image's custom-designed shipboard photo kiosks, as well as a wide range of retail products and a souvenir DVD produced on each voyage.
Image, a pioneer in the development of shipboard digital photography technology, began working with Celebrity's sister company Royal Caribbean International more than 19 years ago, and has helped design some of the most creative on-board photo retailing systems for the RCI's ships. Image is also currently collaborating with RCI on the design of photo galleries, photo lab and other facilities on the 160,000-ton the Genesis class.
Commodores Named For, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises & Cunard
The title of commodore is an honor that is traditionally bestowed upon the most senior captain of a fleet of ships. This month three important appointments were announced for Cunard, Princess and P&O Cruises.
New Commodore Appointed For P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises has appointed Captain Stephen Burgoine to the position of commodore effective. Burgoine, 58, joined P&O in 1966 and has held various positions fleet-wide. In 1996, he took his first command as captain of Pacific Princess. Most recently he took the helm of Arcadia, the newest addition to the P&O Cruises fleet, where he currently serves.
Princess Cruises Welcomes New Commodore
Captain Michael Fatchen, a 40-year veteran of Princess and P&O Cruises, has been named commodore of the company's 15-ship fleet. He becomes the senior master of the fleet and will represent the interests of all ships and their captains. The position represents the highest rank attainable to a Princess mariner.
Most recently serving as master of Pacific Princess during the past three years, Commodore Fatchen will take command of the new Royal Princess when it debuts in April. Throughout his career at sea he has commanded many of the ships in the Princess and P&O Cruises fleet.
Cunard, P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises are Princess Cruises are members of World's Leading Cruise Lines—an exclusive alliance that also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America, Costa Cruises, Ocean Village, Windstar Cruises and The Yachts of Seabourn.
A New Commodore for Cunard Line
Captain Bernard Warner has been appointed Commodore of the Cunard fleet— Queen Mary 2, QE2 and, in December 2007, Queen Victoria— the most famous ocean liners in the world. Captain Warner assumes the title previously held by Commodore Ronald Warwick who retired from the company in 2006. Captain Warner has been Master of the line's flagship Queen Mary 2 since June 2005. He has been at sea for 40 years and in command for the past 12 years. "I am honored by this appointment to Commodore of the fleet of the most famous shipping company in the world and I look forward to re-joining Queen Mary 2 on 20 February in Sydney when both Queens will be together for what promises to be a spectacular occasion."
Famous Cunard commodores of the past:
In the 1920s and 1930s Cunard Commodores were customarily knighted and some of these were larger than life characters who made headline news. Commodore Sir Arthur Rostron (Commodore 1928 - 1931), for example, had been master of the Carpathia when, in 1912, she sped through an ice field in the dark to rescue all the survivors of Titanic. Commodore Sir James Charles (Commodore 1921 - 1928) was noted for the magnificence of his dinner table while commanding Aquitania and Mauretania. The menus often included whole roast oxen or small herds of gazelles, surmounted by hillocks of foie gras decorated with peacock feathers; champagne was served in jeroboams and soufflés were the size of chef's hats. Confectioners spent hours creating centre pieces in spun sugar: on one occasion an electrically operated and illuminated Battle of Waterloo display was carried in to the music of the ship's orchestra playing Elgar. And as reticent as Sir James was expansive was Commodore William Turner, who had been in command of the Lusitania when she was torpedoed in the First World War. He disliked the social side of his job so much he would excuse himself from dinner at the slightest hint of fog in order to escape the first- class passengers. But the passengers loved his gruff manner, and many would only travel if he was in command.
Commodore Sir James Bissett (Commodore 1944 - 1947) commanded Queen Mary during the war when she carried 15,000 GIs at a time to Europe, dashing unescorted at over 30 knots -- far faster than the U Boats that sought her. But Bissett complained that the ship ran the risk of capsizing as the troops all moved to one side on sighting land.
Commodore Sir Ivan Thompson who captained the Queens in the 1950s was a fanatical Liverpool Football Club supporter. As soon as the results came in over the radio, they were sent to the bridge. If the news was bad, officers knew to keep out of his way for the rest of the day. Yet when the Queen Mother joined the same Commodore for dinner on board Queen Elizabeth in 1954 there was not an empty seat in the dining room -- even those who were normally late for dinner scrambled to be seated in time.
Recently history was made when Captain Ronald Warwick succeeded his father, Commodore William Warwick, as fleet Commodore in 2003 -- the only 'father and son' ever to hold the position.
Cruise Industry Executive Assumes Newly Created Position At Seabourn
Nineteen-year cruise industry veteran Gary J. Gerbino will join Seabourn Cruise Line effective January 15, 2007, as vice president of marketing, a new position created following the line's recent agreement to build two new, ultra luxury ships, for delivery in spring 2009 and 2010.
Gerbino's broad industry experience covers ships carrying 250 to as many as 2,620 passengers, and includes marketing and public relations initiatives for three highly successful new-ship launches. As vice president of marketing for Seabourn, Gerbino will be responsible for all consumer and trade marketing efforts for the Americas, including promotional events, advertising, direct mail, collateral development, e-marketing and internet presence. Additionally, he will oversee public relations and revenue management activities. "Seabourn's yachts are without question the benchmark against which all other cruise ships are measured," said Gerbino. "I am very proud to join this ultra luxury line during such an exciting and critical phase in its evolution."
Most recently, Gerbino served as vice president at M. Silver Associates, where he directed external communications for the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the nation's largest travel industry organization. Gerbino was recruited by M. Silver in 2001 to lead the agency's award-winning and high-profile launch of Cunard Line's luxury liner Queen Mary 2.
Prior to that, he was part of the executive team that founded Orient Lines in 1993, launching both the Marco Polo and Crown Odyssey cruise ships.
Cruise West Expands AAA Management Team
Cruise West, has appointed Nancy McConnell as Manager of American Automobile Association (AAA) Sales & Marketing for all AAA clubs from the Midwest to the East Coast. As a result of Cruise West’s recent growth with new ships and itineraries, they found this an ideal time to add additional resources for AAA travel partners. McConnell joins Julie Smith, a sales representative at Cruise West for more than six years who will now be managing the West Coast and Canada AAA clubs.
McConnell brings more than 15 years experience in the luxury travel business. Most recently, McConnell spent three years with TCS Expeditions, first as international expedition leader and later as director of non-profit sales. McConnell gained additional operations experience as cruise director at Clipper Cruise Line and international travel director with INTRAV, Inc. She also has extensive marketing and public relations experience.
Carnival Corp. & Plc Reports Record 4th Quarter & Full Year Earnings
In December, Carnival Corporation & plc reported record net income of $416 million, or $0.51 diluted EPS, on revenues of $2.81 billion for its fourth quarter ended November 30, 2006. Net income for the fourth quarter of 2005 was $336 million, or $0.41 diluted EPS, on revenues of $2.57 billion.
Net income for the year ended November 30, 2006 was a record $2.28 billion, or $2.77 diluted EPS, on revenues of $11.84 billion, compared to net income of $2.25 billion, or $2.70 diluted EPS, on revenues of $11.1 billion for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2005.
Fourth quarter revenues increased by 9.2 percent driven by a 5.5 percent increase in cruise capacity and higher cruise revenue yields (revenue per available lower berth day). Net revenue yields for the fourth quarter of 2006 increased 2.3 percent compared to the prior year. Adjusting for the effect of movement in currencies, net revenue yields as measured on a local currency basis (“constant dollar basis”) increased 0.8 percent over the same period last year. Gross revenue yields increased 3.0 percent. Commenting on fiscal 2006 performance, Carnival Corporation & plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison said, “Following two exceptionally strong years of earnings growth in 2004 and 2005, we ended 2006 with a modest increase in earnings per share as a result of a very significant increase in fuel prices.” Higher fuel prices increased operating costs by $210 million in 2006, which reduced earnings per share by $0.25.
Arison continued, “Revenue yields (in both current and constant dollars) increased 1.5 percent for the full year 2006. Our European cruise brands enjoyed record yields and earnings this past year, demonstrating the benefits of our global strategy. Our North American brands experienced strong pricing for their European and Alaskan cruises. Pricing in the Caribbean was down, which we attribute to hurricane fears and a challenging economic environment in North America.”
Looking forward to 2007, Arison indicated that he was optimistic that the introduction of four new ships would drive earnings growth in 2007.
In March, Carnival Cruise Lines’ 2,974-passenger Carnival Freedom and Princess Cruises’ 3,100-passenger Emerald Princess are scheduled for delivery. AIDA’s 2,050-passenger AIDAdiva will be delivered in April and Costa’s 3,000-passenger Costa Serena in May. Collectively the company will have an 8.4 percent increase in capacity in 2007, with a significant portion of that increase planned for the company’s European brands.
Looking at advance cruise bookings for fiscal 2007, Arison said that the trends noted during the latter part of 2006 have largely continued through the first half of 2007. Bookings for our European cruise brands continue to be strong. Bookings for our North American cruise brands when they sail outside of the Caribbean also continue to be strong, while pricing in the Caribbean is still under pressure. Arison also noted that the strength of the upcoming wave season will have a significant effect on 2007 revenue yields.
For the first quarter of 2007, the company expects net revenue yields to be flat to up slightly (down approximately 2 percent on a constant dollar basis), compared to last year. Based on current internal forecasts, the company expects that net revenue yields for the full year 2007 will increase approximately 1 to 2 percent (flat to down slightly on a constant dollar basis), compared to last year. Net cruise costs per ALBD for 2007 are expected to increase approximately 2 percent (flat on a constant dollar basis), compared to 2006. The company’s cost guidance for fuel is based on the current forward curve for all of 2007 of $339 per metric ton, which is slightly higher than the average price for 2006. The company’s guidance is also based on currency exchange rates of $1.33 to the euro and $1.98 to sterling versus the weighted average rates of $1.26 and $1.83 in 2006. Based on these estimates, the company expects that diluted earnings per share in 2007 will be in the range of $2.90 to $3.10.
Discovery World Cruises, Carnival Named ‘Best Cruise Values’
For the 13th year in a row, Carnival Cruise Lines has been named a “best cruise value” by Ocean & Cruise News, the monthly publication of the World Cruise & Ocean Liner Society, comprised of highly experienced cruise enthusiasts. The awards are featured in the publication’s Nov. 15, 2006, issue. Carnival earned top honors in the High Superior Four-Plus Star Category and was named the “Best Short Cruise Value” in the publication’s annual “Best Value Awards” recognizing those cruise lines that provide the highest quality product at the best price.
Additionally, in the overall value rankings, Carnival Cruise Lines placed second behind sister company Holland America Line.
Carnival was recognized for its fleetwide product upgrades and enhanced service standards, along with varied entertainment options, spacious accommodations and stimulating on-board atmosphere.
Discovery World Cruises Wins "Best Cruise Value: Specialty Cruises" Award
Discovery World Cruises has won the 2006 "Best Cruise Value" award in the Specialty Cruises category from the World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society. The award is based on feedback from the readers of Ocean & Cruise News, and is an indication of which cruise lines they believe are achieving the highest level of value for their passengers. Discovery World Cruises is a division of All Leisure Group, which is headquartered in London and operates the mv Discovery under the Voyages of Discovery brand in the United Kingdom.
‘Costa Classica’ Debuts In Dubai
The Costa Classica made her debut in the Port of Dubai this past weekend, marking a historic first in the global cruise industry. Costa Crociere is the first international cruise company to homeport from Dubai, offering travelers uniquely rich itineraries throughout the Gulf region. The new cruises from Dubai will be offered throughout the 2006/2007 winter season, with additional capacity offered in the 2007-2008 season.
European Cruise Seminar To Be Held In Brussels February 6, 2007
The cruise industry in Europe has undergone significant expansion over the past 15 years with an annual growth rate of over 10 percent since 2001. In 2005 more than 3.2 million European citizens enjoyed the pleasure of a cruise, with nearly 75 percent of them visiting European destinations. In parallel, European shipyards have been busy building nearly all the world's new cruise ships with a current order book of 31 ships at European yards worth nearly $20 billion. And the ship repair and conversion yards continue to witness growth from the industry.
The European Cruise Council is holding an exclusive four-seminar meeting in Brussels on February 6, where what’s ahead for the cruise industry will be revealed.
Speakers include Paolo Costa, Chairman, Transport and Tourism Committee, EU Parliament; Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman & CEO, Costa Crociere SpA and Chairman, European Cruise Council; David Dingle, Managing Director, Carnival UK; Corrado Antonini, Chairman, Fincantieri Shipyards; Bernard Meyer, Managing Partner, Meyer Werft GmBH; Laurent Monsaingeon, President, MedCruise Association; and
Mai Elmar, Executive Manager, Cruise Europe.
More information at http://www.europeancruisecouncil.com/eci/eci.html.
Lloyd’s Register To Class Pearl Seas Cruises’ New Ship
Pearl Seas Cruises LLC has selected Lloyd’s Register for classification and design appraisal services for its new cruise ship. Construction will commence shortly in Halifax, Nova Scotia by Irving Shipbuilding, Inc. Pearl Seas Cruises awarded the contract to Lloyd’s Register for its leadership in the international cruise ship sector and its experience with innovative design concepts.
In keeping with Pearl Seas Cruises’ signature style of luxury small-ship cruising, the new vessel will be 300 feet (91 meters) in length and will carry about 165 passengers to destinations worldwide, beginning in 2008 with the Canadian Maritimes and the Caribbean.
The ship will feature the latest navigation and communication technology and will meet stringent regulations for safety, fire prevention and detection, and stability. Classification and design support services will be provided by Lloyd’s Register Group offices in Miami, Toronto, London, and Halifax and will include review and approval of plans for the ship’s structure, machinery, safety equipment, and navigation and control systems as well as on-site supervision during construction.
“This is our first vessel for the international cruise trade, and we chose to work with Lloyd’s Register for its vast international experience,” says Charles A. Robertson, Chairman and CEO of Pearl Seas Cruises and its affiliated maritime companies. “We are confident that Lloyd’s Register’s systematic approach to design appraisal will help ensure our ship meets all the relevant regulations and design requirements.”
For more information on Pearl Seas Cruises please call 203-453-4211 or visit e
Hebridean Cruises Offers New Reader-Friendly Website
British cruise line Hebridean Cruises has revamped its website, allowing users to more easily access information on cruises. There is a Privately Escorted Tours section that gives in-depth information on the itineraries by the line’s two vessels Hebridean Princess and Hebridean Spirit. Readers can also click for the cruiseline’s latest newsletter highlighting news about cruises and destinations.
Oriana Sails Back Into Southampton After Multi-Million Pound Makeover
P&O Cruises popular superliner Oriana returned to Southampton after undergoing a major multi-million pound refit in Bremerhaven, Germany and is now on the first leg of her World Cruise.
Oriana is also the first ship in P&O Cruises history to display the new P&O Cruises logo on the side of her freshly painted white hull. Highlights for passengers include an elegant new Gary Rhodes restaurant named the Oriana Rhodes; fully refurbished cabins, which give Oriana a boutique-hotel feel; and revitalized children’s facilities with high-tech gaming consoles. P&O Cruises commercial director, Nigel Esdale, said the makeover has given the ship a completely refreshed look and feel. "We've done away with the traditional soft furnishings on Oriana and along with new mattresses we've introduced duvets and new pillows, Egyptian cotton linen and stylish bed runners to match the new sofas, cushions, curtains and headboards. The cabins have been redecorated in invigorating tones of blue and gold, to reflect changing trends in interiors," said Esdale.
The Captain's Lounge has been redecorated in soft colours to act as the on board wedding chapel, where couples will be married by the ship's Captain. The first wedding is set to occur during Oriana’s world cruise.
Costa Increases Its Mark In France
Costa at its press conference this week announced that just under half of the estimated 250,000 French cruise passengers in 2006 sailed with Costa, which registered a record 120,000 passengers from France last year. This figure represents 15% of the 880,000 global passengers carried by Costa in 2006 and a turnover of more than €120m. “France, which is our second market after Italy, produces our highest satisfaction rates in the world. We expect to carry 150,000 French passengers in 2007,” said Costa CEO Pier Luigi Foschi.
Sixty-two percent of Costa’s French passengers are under 55 and retired passengers comprise only 35% of its clientele, compared to 59% in 1995. Commenting on the company’s overall operating performance in 2006, Foschi added, “it was a good year for us. Despite not increasing our capacity, we still enjoyed further growth. The booking trend in 2007 is very encouraging, so we can confidently expect to reach our aim of exceeding the one million mark this year.”
In an evident show of support for the French market, Costa will christen its newest ship Costa Serena in Marseilles this May.
NCL Launches Hula Program For Passengers On Hawaiian Cruises
NCL America is launching Hookipa Aloha, a hula program created for cruise passengers to showcase Hawaii's historical and cultural heritage through song and dance. Selected halau have been invited to perform for the onboard program, which is being coordinated by Holt Takamine.
The first show was celebrated on the Pride of Hawaii on Monday, January 8. The halau will then perform on all three NCL America ships while in port in Honolulu starting with Pride of America on Saturdays, Pride of Aloha on Sundays and Pride of Hawaii on Mondays.
The shows will feature both traditional and contemporary styles of hula and will be performed on the pool deck by performers from Pua Alii 'Ilima, Halau Mohala 'Ilima and Ka Pa Hula O Kauanoa O Waahila. The halau will recreate what passengers once experienced during Aloha Boat Days in the 1920's, 30's, and 40's when ocean liners arrived to Honolulu Harbor packed with eager visitors.
