Celebrity Cruises, the premium market unit in Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCCL) group, says it has launched "Signature Event Sailings", a series of exclusive holidays which allow guests to experience iconic global events and celebrations as part of their holiday. Throughout 2015-16 holidaymakers can mingle with Hollywood royalty at the Cannes Film Festival, celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, soak up the atmosphere at the world’s biggest party, the Rio Carnival, and much more.
Providing holidaymakers with unique access to a series of the most desirable events across the globe, Celebrity Cruises’ Signature Event Sailings immerse guests in each culture-rich destination with specially designed shore excursions that place them in the middle of the action or a VIP vantage point.
To further enhance the Signature Event Sailings experience, guests will also be entertained and engaged onboard with unique shows, speakers and activities inspired by the highlighted event for that particular sailing.
Signature Event Sailings for 2015-16 include:
Anzac Day - 100th Anniversary Commemoration in Turkey: As part of a 12-night Turkey and Greece cruise departing on 22 April 2015, history buffs can step back in time with a visit to the battlefields of Gallipoli, one of the world's most historically significant military sites, during the 100th Anniversary of Anzac Day. Guests also have the chance to explore and enjoy a tour of the Gallipoli Peninsula, which showcases Turkey's rich culture and history. Onboard Celebrity Constellation, guests can learn about World War I and II from historian and author Peter Donovan, plus there will be a special viewing of the 100th Anniversary of Anzac Day service televised from the beaches of Gallipoli as well as a commemorative onboard ceremony.
Cannes Film Festival: On a 10-night Mediterranean cruise, departing on 11 May 2015, from Barcelona (Spain), Celebrity Equinox will visit Cannes (France), where the hot-ticket event of the summer will be taking place – the Cannes Film Festival. Guests can indulge in the epitome of A-list Hollywood glamour and sophistication by attending an exclusive VIP rooftop celebration ashore with live French music and cocktails while overlooking the picturesque harbour. Onboard, guests can enjoy Celebrity Cruises’ film festival – a celebration of past Cannes Film Festival winners – and watch live presentations from a film historian.
Redentore Festival in Venice: This 14-night Turkey and Black Sea cruise, departing on 5 July 5 2015 from Istanbul (Turkey), will visit Venice (Italy) during the historic Redentore Festival – a festive celebration that dates back to 1577. Onboard Celebrity Constellation, guests can watch one of the most prolific fireworks displays in the world as it illuminates decorated boats gathered in Saint Mark's basin, and enjoy a themed poolside and interactive masque event inspired by a Venetian masquerade ball.
The British Open in Edinburgh: Departing on 15 July 2015 from Amsterdam (Netherlands), golf enthusiasts can enjoy the oldest and most prestigious of the major professional golf championships – the British Open – while on the 12-night British Isle cruise aboard Celebrity Silhouette. Celebrating the championship's 144th year, guests can enjoy VIP experiences that include special onboard events hosted by a golf pro, entry to the historic championship in St. Andrews, teeing up for a round of golf on stunning courses in three different locations during the sailing, and the rare opportunity to walk the Old Course.
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro: Guests can be part of the action in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) during Carnival by sailing on Celebrity Infinity's special 14-night South America and Rio Carnival cruise, departing on 31 January 2016 from Buenos Aires (Argentina). Guests can samba down the Sambadrome of Rio in an extravagant costume and experience the vibrancy of the iconic Samba Parade in grandstand or VIP seating. The party continues onboard, as professional samba dancers will grace the stage and invite guests to learn the iconic Brazilian dance and show off their new skills under the stars at a Latin-themed celebration with music from South Beach to South America.
Chinese New Year in Hong Kong: Guests can experience Chinese New Year in one of the most vibrant cities of the Far East – Hong Kong – during the 14-night Chinese New Year cruise, departing on 31 January 2016 onboard Celebrity Millennium. While in Hong Kong, guests can explore historic landmarks, from the Wong Tai Sin Temple to Kowloon Walled City Park, and participate in a local tradition by visiting the Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree. While at sea, guests will have the opportunity to marvel at live performances by Shaolin Monks, take Tai Chi lessons and celebrate the "Year of the Monkey" with more onboard events.
Beginning in 2015, guests will also have the opportunity to take advantage of Celebrity Cruises’ new Suite Class offering. New luxurious additions for guests booking to stay in a suite include a dedicated, suites-only restaurant, VIP lounge, and complimentary ‘all in’ benefits such as premium beverages, dining at any speciality restaurant and unlimited internet access. Suite guests will also receive priority check-in and embarkation and will enjoy the Celebrity Cruises butler service. Personal butlers will unpack luggage, book excursions and be on hand 24 hours a day to ensure guests receive a dedicated and personalised service.
