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Costa Cruises opens the 2027 World Cruise

February 23, 2025 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Costa Cruises opens the 2027 World Cruise

Costa Cruises has opened bookings for the 2027 edition of the World Cruise: 139 days, 5 continents, 29 countries and 47 destinations on board Costa Deliziosa

Image Credit: Costa Deliziosa, Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises has opened bookings for the 2027 edition of the World Cruise.

On board of Costa Deliziosa, guests will be able to enjoy a 139-day experience departing on 25 November 2026, from Savona and arriving on 12 April 2027, crossing 5 continents, 29 countries and 47 destinations, on an unforgettable journey, with calls in the most fascinating destinations on the planet.

Costa was among the first companies to offer this exceptional journey, since the seventies, and for the 2027 edition of her World Cruise it has designed a very special itinerary to discover new destinations, including Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, the most iconic cities on the East and West Coast of the United States, the Hawaiian Islands, Tahiti, Fiji, Australia, Japan, Singapore and other destinations between South East Asia and Africa.

In addition to the complete 139-day itinerary from Savona, in this 2027 edition it is also possible to take advantage of an additional booking opportunity for the 100-Day cruise with boarding in San Francisco, reachable by flights from the main airports and which therefore includes destinations between Oceania, Asia and Africa until the end of the cruise in Savona.

Costa Deliziosa will circumnavigate the globe westwards, to live an experience worthy of the best adventure novels. Different chapters of endless adventures to be experienced on board as well as on land, with multi-day tours to discover unique and memorable destinations.

In North America, the East Coast of New York and Miami and then the atmosphere of the West Coast with long calls in San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles, where you will experience a spectacular New Year’s Eve and the opportunity to embark on Overland helicopter tours to discover the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas.

Then sailing to enchanting archipelagos and islands of the Pacific, Hawaii, with calls in Maui and Oahu and then through Oceania, with calls in Australia (Cairns and Sydney) and New Caledonia, and continue in the heart of Asia, with the futuristic cities of Japan (in this edition the 5-day Overland Tour is also available to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagasaki, Hakone and Mount Fuji) and then to Hong Kong and Singapore and the exotic charm of Vietnam.

After exploring the Maldives, the ship will sail the Indian Ocean, also landing in South Africa, where guests will be able to experience the thrill of a safari in Port Elizabeth, before returning to the Mediterranean, thus concluding an epic journey circumnavigating the west coast of Africa in a northerly direction, Costa Deliziosa will give her guests the pleasure and indelible memory of an adventure worthy of the best exploration novels.

The 2027 edition of the World Cruise with Costa Deliziosa sees numerous overnight/ multi-days calls in the ports of the several destinations included, to enjoy iconic destinations such as New York, Miami (Port Everglades), Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sydney, Tokyo even more intensely.

Costa Deliziosa, the jewel of the Costa fleet, is a hymn to comfort, relaxation, fun and attention to detail to offer guests a very comfortable experience on board: with her furnishings and decorations in Murano glass, the outdoor decks with floral names, the elegant and bright cabins, the fascinating and romantic Sunset Bar for aperitifs overlooking the sea, it will be possible to live a unique travel experience also thanks to the entertainment proposal with shows and shows of dance and live music for always different evenings.

Among the many peculiarities of Costa Deliziosa then the gastronomic offer, truly exceptional with a variety of culinary options to satisfy all tastes: buffets and themed restaurants to savor traditional recipes or experiment with international dishes and a refined gourmet proposal to celebrate special moments; Themed bar where you can relax with an aperitif or a cocktail. Every day on board is an opportunity to discover new flavors and enjoy a unique culinary experience.

Image Credit: Half Moon Cay, Costa Cruises

Just five months away from experiencing Celebration Key

February 23, 2025 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Just five months away from experiencing Celebration Key

Carnival Leaders Begin Countdown to New Exclusive Destination's Opening with Behind-the-Scenes Visit

Image credit: Celebration Key, Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line guests are just five months away from experiencing Celebration Key’s five portals to paradise. To kick off the countdown to the official opening on 19 July 2024, Carnival Corporation & plc’s Chief Executive Officer Josh Weinstein and Chief Maritime Officer Lars Ljoen joined Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy for a behind the scenes look at this new exclusive destination on Grand Bahama as construction enters its final phases.

They marked milestones in construction progress across the expansive beachfront destination and highlighted Celebration Key’s sustainability commitment. In a nod to the maritime tradition of a keel laying for a new ship, they placed commemorative keys into Celebration Key’s signature Suncastle, the centerpiece of the destination’s five portals.

The Suncastle stands 10-stories tall near Paradise Plaza, the first portal guests will encounter that serves as a gateway to the destination’s other areas. The Suncastle is also home to racing waterslides that are part of the portal geared toward families, Starfish Lagoon, along with endless other options for recreation and relaxation. The destination’s adult-focused portal, Calypso Lagoon, features an adult-only area with a DJ island and a large swim-up bar. Pearl Cove Beach Club is a private portal offering a premium adult-only experience with an infinity pool and beachfront cabanas. The fifth portal, Lokono Cove, is an artisan retail village celebrating Bahamian culture through local art and handmade goods.

About 500 workers are on site daily as construction continues round-the-clock to prepare the destination for its summer opening, when Carnival Vista will make the inaugural call on July 19. Celebration Key will deliver Carnival’s signature brand of fun while honoring local heritage and supporting Grand Bahama through job creation and economic development. To date, 28 Bahamian companies have contributed to the project.

Carnival continues to make new options and features available for guests as they plan their Celebration Key experience. New at Pearl Cove Beach Club are beachfront daybeds, private cabanas and exclusive Super Villas, available for booking soon. Each option includes access to the club’s open bar service, infinity pool, full-service restaurant and premium beachfront access.

 

Historic First: Azamara’s Sister Ships Arrive in Sydney

February 23, 2025 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Historic First: Azamara’s Sister Ships Arrive in Sydney

Azamara Sisters Cruise into Sydney Harbour - Onward led the way while Pursuit treated guests to a 360 twirl!

Image Credit - Azamara Onward, Azamara

Azamara, hosted a milestone event as two of its sister ships, Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward, dock in Sydney simultaneously for the first time in the company’s history. This landmark occasion underscores Azamara’s strong commitment to the Australia and New Zealand region and celebrates the growing popularity of its curated itineraries among discerning travelers.

The simultaneous presence of these boutique-style ships highlights Azamara’s dedication to providing unparalleled exploration of some of the world’s most sought-after destinations. With both vessels boasting nearly full bookings in the AUS/NZ region this season, this moment serves as a testament to the high demand for Azamara’s immersive and thoughtfully crafted voyages.

The docking of Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward in Sydney provides an extraordinary visual celebration for guests and locals alike, showcasing the boutique elegance and intimate atmosphere that set Azamara apart. This rare dual visit is expected to further enhance Azamara’s reputation as a cruise line of choice for travelers seeking unique destinations, longer stays, and more overnight experiences.

Image credit: Azamara Cruises
Image credit: Azamara Cruises

Seabourn Encore modifies itineraries for Spring 2025

August 3, 2024 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Seabourn Encore modifies itineraries for Spring 2025

The ultra-luxury cruise line will offer a special savings on new bookings made on Seabourn Encore's new Spring 2025 deployment

Image credit: Seabourn Encore

Seabourn, has modified the spring 2025 itineraries for Seabourn Encore to include a series of new voyages to Southeast Asia, Japan, Hawaii, the Panama Canal and the Mediterranean between March and May 2025. The new deployment features 36 destinations in 18 countries, and many “firsts” for Seabourn Encore, including 18 maiden calls and the ship’s first transit through the historical Panama Canal and its first-ever visit to the U.S. Guests who book by November 19, 2024, can enjoy a special 10 percent savings on new bookings made on Seabourn Encore’s revised 2025 voyages

Seabourn Encore was originally scheduled to sail westbound from Asia to Europe. However, changes were made to the original planned itineraries to prioritize the safety of guests and to avoid the Red Sea. Instead, the ship will head eastbound from Singapore to Dubrovnik, traveling nearly 20,000 nautical miles across four continents and two oceans.

Seabourn Encore will make 18 maiden calls, including its first transit through the Panama Canal and its maiden visit to the U.S., in Hawaii, California and Miami in March and April 2025. The ship will also visit two new ports of call in Japan never before visited by the Seabourn fleet – Tokushima, renowned for its serene landscapes, and Wakayama, celebrated for its beautiful temples and coastal scenery. Additional itinerary highlights include overnight calls in Honolulu, Hawaii; Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam; Kobe, Japan; and evening departures from Yokohama, Japan; Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and Cartagena, Colombia.

Also new on select voyages will be a bespoke, curated onboard entertainment program, featuring a star-studded line-up of performers and guest speakers. Additional details will be announced soon.

The new voyages range from seven to 25 days and may be combined for longer sailings up to 53-day global adventures. They include the following:

  • 2Mar25 – 14-Day Southeast Asia & Japan, from Singapore to Kobe
  • 16Mar25 – 25-Day Japan & Hawaiian Islands Pacific Crossing, from Kobe to Long Beach
  • 9Apr25 – 19-Day Panama Canal Passage, from Long Beach to Miami
  • 28Apr25 – 12-Day Atlantic Crossing, from Miami to Lisbon
  • 10May25 – 8-Day Western Mediterranean Mosaic, from Lisbon to Civitavecchia (Rome)
  • 18May25 – 7-Day Amalfi Coast & Adriatic Gems, from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Dubrovnik

Windstar is celebrating 40 years of small ship cruising

August 3, 2024 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Windstar is celebrating 40 years of small ship cruising

Two Ships Will Meet in Turkey for a Celebration Event at Ephesus in October; Extended Ruby Anniversary Season Will Include Special Giveaways, Crew Commemorations, Signature Cocktails, and More

Image Credit: Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises is marking its 40th anniversary season by launching two Mediterranean voyages in October where the ships will rendezvous for a special celebration. Guests looking to celebrate with Windstar can book either the Star Legend’s Aegean Sea Odyssey Via the Corinth Canal cruise departing 12Oct24 or the Wind Spirit’s Treasures of the Greek Isles cruise departing 23Oct24. The two vessels will converge in Kusadasi on 16Oct24 for a special celebration in the ancient city of Ephesus.

Founded by ship entrepreneurs Karl G. Andrén and Jean-Claude Potier, Windstar Cruises began as Windstar Sail Cruises in October of 1984 with motor sailing ships. Now with six small ships, three Wind Class sailing ships and three Star Class motor yachts, the line is considered the leader in small ship cruising and is experiencing a period of unprecedented success and growth, including the addition of two new all-suite motor yachts in 2025 and 2026

Windstar’s ruby anniversary officially kicks off on 26Oct24 when the 148-guest Wind Spirit and the 312-guest Star Legend come together for an event in the city of Ephesus for live music and a five-course dinner under the stars. This longtime, complimentary offering has been popular with Windstar guests over the years, which is why it was selected to mark the occasion.

Windstar will celebrate its 40-year anniversary across the fleet from October 2024 through October 2025 with additional activations and memorable moments – with more details to come. Guests should expect the following:

  • Complimentary Ruby Anniversary cocktails served at a special 40 years of Windstar trivia event on board
  • 40 years of Windstar trivia winners will be entered into a random drawing held in December 2025 to win a cruise for two aboard Star Seeker’s inaugural cruise
  • Limited edition Seabags, a 40th anniversary series that is crafted from recycled Wind Surf sails, will be on board for purchase in the ship’s shops

Extensive Modernization for Two More Sphinx Ships

July 12, 2024 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Extensive Modernization for Two More Sphinx Ships

AIDA Evolution: Extensive Modernization for Two More Sphinx Ships from the End of 2025 AIDA Cruises is forging ahead with modernizing its fleet: After AIDAdiva, the shipyard schedules for the next two Sphinx-class ships have now been set.

Image Credit: Aida Cruises, Aida Bella.

As part of AIDA Evolution, the largest fleet modernization program in the company’s history, the first three ships of the Sphinx series will be extensively modernized by 2026. The first ship to be modernized will be AIDAdiva, which will enter the Chantier Naval shipyard in Marseille, France, from February 3 to March 22, 2025. The dry dock periods for the next two ships have now also been scheduled: AIDAluna will be in the shipyard from October 22 to December 10, 2025, followed by AIDAbella from January 21 to March 11, 2026.

During the seven-week dry dock overhaul, the focus will be on upgrading the ship’s technology and providing an even greater variety of experiences, services and comfort. Popular concepts from the latest AIDA generation will also be brought on board. All guest staterooms will receive a new look. In addition, the number of suites will be increased. Exclusive areas and services will be created for the first time in this ship class. On the culinary side, guests can look forward to an even greater variety of restaurants and even better service. Popular signature bars will be added to the bar offerings. The distinctive Theatrium will be redesigned with inviting seating and a harmonious color scheme. New activity areas will be created specifically for families with children.

The ships in the Sphinx series will enter service between 2007 and 2013. Their innovative and open space concept and design have significantly shaped the AIDA experience. With AIDA Evolution, these ships are now undergoing a comprehensive modernization. For more details on the modernization program and planned innovations, please visit aida.de/evolution.

Grinchmas in July

Carnival Delights Families Of Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation

July 12, 2024 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Carnival Delights Families Of Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation

Carnival Delights Families Of Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation With Grinchmas Family Fun Day In Sydney Harbour

Grinchmas in July

Ahoy, ahoy, it’s time for some festive joy! Christmas came early this morning for families of Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) as they enjoyed a special Grinchmas Family Fun Day onboard Carnival Splendor in Sydney Harbour.

To celebrate the second year of Carnival’s Grinchmas in July sailings and longstanding partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises and SCHF, 50 patients and their families were invited to join The Grinch and his sidekick Max for a day of festive fun at sea. Dressed in their festive best, children and their families were treated to some of the highlights of a Grinchmas cruise, including the official giant Christmas tree lighting ceremony complete with ‘real’ snow falling, sing-a-long caroling, themed ‘Grinchmas family games’ and crafts, a How The Grinch Stole Christmas storytime reading, appearances and family photo opportunities with Dr. Seuss characters including The Grinch, Max, Thing 1 & Thing 2 and The Cat in the Hat and delicious themed spread of dining and beverages.

The Grinch’s heart grew three sizes at the event when he met 13-year-old Matilda Jenkins. Matilda, the youngest of four siblings, has been a patient of Sydney Children’s Hospital Network since she transferred to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead at 24 hours old. Matilda was announced as the official Goddaughter of Carnival Splendor in 2018 when she was only 6 years old.

Carnival Splendor Cruise Director Simon London presented a cheque to Matilda and SCHF Chief Marketing Officer Kate Ferguson for $62,758, the total amount raised for Sydney Children’s Hospital’s Foundation onboard Carnival Splendor over the last year

Viking Vesta Float Out

Viking Marks Float Out of Newest Ocean Ship

July 12, 2024 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Viking Marks Float Out of Newest Ocean Ship

Set to Debut in Summer 2025, the Viking Vesta Meets Water for the First Time

Viking Vesta Float Out
Image credit: Viking. Viking Vesta

On 8 July 2024, Viking announced its newest ocean ship—the 998-guest Viking Vesta—was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Classified as a small ship, the Viking Vesta is scheduled to debut in July 2025. Pictured here, the Viking Vesta (left) with her sister ship which will debut in 2024, the Viking Vela (right), at Fincantieri’s Ancona
shipyard.

Classified as a small ship, as are all Viking ocean ships, the Viking Vesta has a gross tonnage of 54,300 tons, with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests. The ship is scheduled to debut in July 2025 and will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and in Northern Europe.

The traditional float-out ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona and is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. The float out of the Viking Vesta began on July 4 at approximately 11:00 a.m. local time when the Viking team cut a cord that signalled water to flow into the ship’s building dock. Following a two-day process that will set the Viking Vesta afloat, she will then be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.

With a clear focus on creating experiences for The Thinking Person, Viking does not try to be all things to all people. This approach has resonated with guests, and in 2023, Viking was rated #1 for Oceans, as well as #1 for Rivers and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the most recent Readers’ Choice Awards.

Sea Destinations - Onboard Events

Costa presents “Sea Destinations”

March 6, 2024 baz Ocean Cruises Comments Off on Costa presents “Sea Destinations”

Costa itineraries will take guests to new destinations between sky and sea.

Sea Destinations - Onboard Events
Image credit: Costa Cruises, Mykonos

Costa presents a great new feature that will make its cruises even more unique and unforgettable in 2024: the ‘Sea Destinations’.

Starting from next spring, the Italian company’s itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe will be further enriched with brand new destinations, to be discovered on board the ship, during navigation. A voyage within a voyage, where the sea is not only the means to reach the cruise calls; but it is a privileged point of view to experience evocative moments, that tell of iconic places included in the ship’s route. In this way, alongside destinations ‘ashore’, such as Barcelona, Naples, Genoa, Istanbul, Mykonos, explored off the classic ways, Costa itineraries will take guests to new destinations between sky and sea.

For example, in the Western Mediterranean, after visiting Ibiza, once back on board the ship, guests can let themselves be carried away by the atmosphere of the sunset with a hippy chic party in the bay of Formentera; or, before disembarking from the ship to visit Naples, guests can enjoy a typical Caprese breakfast in front of the spectacular panorama of the Faraglioni rocks of Capri island, illuminated by the first light of day.

Passing, instead, over the deepest point of the Eastern Mediterranean, a feast of the abysses of the sea will come to life; while, crossing the gateway to the East, the strait of the Dardanelles, guests on board will be able to experience a journey back in time and admire, enraptured, the mystical dance of the rotating veils of the Dervishes. And again, the ashore visit through the “calli” of Venice will be followed by a “Dolce Vita” aperitif, on the ship, right in front of the Lido, to be captivated by the sunset over the lagoon, amidst posters of Italian films and a Film Festival soundtrack.

Sea Destinations will also be available on Northern European cruises among Norway’s most beautiful fjords. For example, after being greeted by local farmers in the town of Geiranger, guests will cruise through the entire fjord listening to Nordic stories and legends, while from the bow of the ship they will experience the spectacle of the Seven Sisters waterfall, amidst craggy rocks and verdant mountains.

A-ROSA River Cruises boosts 2024 excursion programme with over 50 new options

February 28, 2024 baz River Cruises Comments Off on A-ROSA River Cruises boosts 2024 excursion programme with over 50 new options

New offers in all five cruise regions, adding up to a total of over 650 excursions

Over 50 new excursions have been added to A-ROSA River Cruises’ excursion programme for 2024, bringing the total of tours now offered to over 650, across all five cruise regions. From new city sightseeing tours and visits to landmarks, to more unique experiences such as personally prepared lunch by a countess on the Douro, there is more choice than ever before. In addition, a new discount of up to 15% off the excursion price has been introduced, when three or more are pre-booked in advance.             

On the Douro, five new excursions are now available, including two new small group options. There is the chance to visit the Quinta da Pacheca near Regua, one of the most renowned wineries in the region, dating back to the 16th century. The Quinta specialises in both wine and port wine and guests can experience some of these during a special picnic with incredible views.  For those who want something extra special, Her Grace, Maria Manuel Cyrne will welcome small groups to her estate in the Douro Valley and after a tour, the countess will personally prepare a Portuguese lunch for guests to enjoy.

Alongside additional excursions in both new and existing ports of call on the Rhine, the arrival of A-ROSA ALEA and A-ROSA CLEA into the fleet in April has also boosted options. Their smaller length means they can sail directly into the heart of ports such as Trier and Strasbourg, making it easy for guest who wish to explore these destinations at their leisure. Alternatively, there is a new group excursion from Trier to the historic gemstone city of Idar-Oberstein and the possibility to marvel at over 100 historic airplanes from aviation history in a nearby museum after. A-ROSA ALEA will dock in Strasbourg in 2024 and during the festive season, a Christmas Market excursion is now offered.

For the ultimate treat, in the new port of Vlissingen, a once-in-a-lifetime flight experience for two is now available. This trip offers the chance to get a bird’s eye view of the regions rolling hills, windmills, farmland and more.

One of the new options on the Danube is a trip to Gödöllö Castle near Budapest, where guests can walk through the magnificent halls and gardens which were the former summer residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria and her husband King Franz Joseph I.

For those sailing on the Rhône, a new exclusive tour for up to just six people will explore the Ardeche region and visit a Chateau to meet wine growers and enjoy at tasting. There is also a new bike excursion exploring the landscapes of the Côtes du Rhône region.

On the Seine, history and nature enthusiasts can now enjoy a new excursion to Château de La Roche-Guyon, a castle which towers over the banks of the Seine and boasts three-hectares of gardens and excellent views.