Cruise Europe welcomes three new members

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Written by Kari Reinikainen Kari Reinikainen

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Published: 27 February 2013 27 February 2013

Cruise Europe, the cruise association for Northern and Atlantic Europe recently announced having admitted three new members, namely Bremerhaven, Wismar and Bordeaux. Alan Lam reports.

The inclusion of two German ports has put an end to the glaring absence of Germany from the Cruise Europe map. The organisation had keenly felt the absence from its membership this fast growing destination and source market. 

“Bremerhaven and Wismar are both very attractive ports that will provide a missing link in the membership of Cruise Europe,” said Jens Skrede, Managing Director, commenting on this announcement. “I have visited both ports, and the Chairman joined on our Wismar visit. We were impressed by the facilities and the people.”

Bordeaux is an important addition in that it is the only member situated between Cherbourg and Bilbao. “This wine capital of the world is a very attractive destination,” said Jens Skrede. The admission of Bordeaux has increased the French port membership of Cruise Europe to five.

“We are certain that our new members will gain from being a part of the strong network that is Cruise Europe,” echoed Michael McCarthy, the Chairman.

 

Norwegian Breakaway leaves the building dock

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 25 February 2013 25 February 2013

On Tuesday, 26 February 2013 the 145,000 gross ton Norwegian Breakaway, whose construction has taken merely 17 months, floated out of Meyer Werft's covered building dock II. Over the last few weeks the shipyard has been busy conducting extensive tests and machinery trials. The float-out of the ship, which is built for Norwegian Cruise Line, will commenced in the morning. Following the float-out and more tests to be carried out in the harbour, the ship will be berthed alongside the yard's outfitting pier.

With the ship being berthed at the yard's pier, the remaining work and tests and trials will be carried out in the next few days. Within merely a couple of days, the first crew members will move into their cabins on board, and familiarize themselves with the ship itself and its numerous systems. The Norwegian Breakaway's conveyance down the river Ems towards the North Sea, where she will prove her seaworthiness, is scheduled for early March 2013.

The 145,000 gt cruise ship has a length overall of 324 m, and is 39.70 m wide. Its construction complies with the latest safety standards, and the ship meets all valid environmental regulations.

Celebrity chef Zakarian to open new restaurant on the Norwegian Getaway

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 25 February 2013 25 February 2013

Norwegian Cruise Line has that celebrity chef and Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian will create and oversee the opening of his seafood restaurant, Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian, on the line's newest ship, Norwegian Getaway, which will sail year-round to the Eastern Caribbean from Miami beginning February, 2014. To celebrate this exciting announcement, Norwegian partnered with Zakarian for an exclusive lunch on Saturday, February 23, 2013, at Soho Beach House in South Beach, during Miami's South Beach Wine & Food Festival, further signifying Norwegian Getaway's strong ties to her Miami home. Geoffrey Zakarian's new restaurant is located in the ship's hub amongst three expansive, action-packed decks called 678 Ocean Place and includes innovative outdoor spaces along The Waterfront, the ship's oceanfront promenade, offering guests an unparalleled experience with a unique connection to the ocean.

The restaurant, Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian, will bring a luxury seafood dining experience to Norwegian Getaway, utilizing all of the ingredients and techniques that Zakarian employs in his land-based establishments to three distinct dining locations on board: Ocean Blue, Ocean Blue on The Waterfront, Zakarian's take on a boardwalk clam shack, and The Raw Bar, serving crustaceans and wines by the glass. In developing the Ocean Blue concept for Norwegian's newest ship, Zakarian is orchestrating every aspect of the restaurants, from the menus to the uniforms and the glassware. On select sailings, Zakarian will also host meet-and-greets with Norwegian Getaway guests, along with in-person cooking demonstrations and intimate cooking experiences for smaller groups. The first location of Ocean Blue will premiere on board Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway's New York City-based sister ship in April 2013.

"I am thrilled to announce that the Ocean Blue concept we developed for Norwegian Breakaway will also have a home on her Miami-based sister ship, Norwegian Getaway," said Geoffrey Zakarian. "I am so proud of the concept, menus and décor of this restaurant and am excited to bring my sense of hospitality to guests cruising to the Eastern Caribbean from Miami on Norwegian Getaway."

Zakarian's taste, style and passion for fine cuisine have defined his career, which has spanned more than 25 years. An accomplished chef who has presided over some of the country's top kitchens, he currently has two popular restaurants in New York City ? The Lambs Club and The National; one in Atlantic City ? The Water Club at Borgata; and a highly acclaimed cookbook "Geoffrey Zakarian's Town/Country: 150 Recipes for Life Around the Table." Zakarian emerged victorious in the recent fourth season of Food Network's The Next Iron Chef, Super Chefs. He appears regularly on Iron Chef America, demonstrating a razor-sharp knowledge of culinary techniques in this fast-paced cooking competition. When he's not battling in the kitchen stadium, Zakarian stays busy filming CHOPPED, where he is featured as a recurring judge and highlights his favorite dishes on The Best Thing I Ever Ate.

"Geoffrey is a world-renown chef with an incredible culinary resume and an overall great guy," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "Our guests sailing from Miami on Norwegian Getaway will experience his world-class cuisine in three unique dining outlets. We couldn't be more excited to be working with Geoffrey and that he is bringing his culinary expertise, creativity and attention to detail to another one of our beautiful ships."

Ocean Blue, the Raw Bar and Ocean Blue on the Waterfront are just three of the incredible dining options that will be found amongst three expansive, flowing decks of dining, bars, entertainment, gaming and more as part of The Waterfront, the ship's oceanfront boardwalk, and 678 Ocean Place, the central hub of the ship. These two areas, lined with shops, restaurants and bars, represent a major innovation in ship design, offering guests an unparalleled experience with a unique connection to the ocean.

Located on Deck 8, The Waterfront is a revolutionary outdoor experience that adds a whole new dimension to the line's signature Freestyle Cruising, by offering a number of seaside venues that feature breathtaking views and a sense of connection with the ocean. The hub of the ship is 678 Ocean Place, a space that uniquely flows, intertwines and connects three decks of daytime and nighttime amusements. There will be a total of 17* dining venues combined on both 678 Ocean Place and The Waterfront, along with 12* bars and lounges, including Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian.

The Waterfront will feature eight outdoor dining and lounging options, including signature Norwegian favorites like Moderno Churrascaria; Cagney's Steakhouse; La Cucina; Shaker's Cocktail Bar; Malting's Beer & Whiskey Bar; and the newest addition, Ocean Blue on The Waterfront, with outdoor seating and a special takeaway menu. The Waterfront will also feature a gelato bar serving a selection of flavors of the delectable frozen treat. Guests will enjoy this creamy confection as they take a leisurely stroll along The Waterfront. A yet-to-be-announced entertainment venue will also have an outdoor space.
 
678 Ocean Place
On Deck 8, 678 Ocean Place connects the excitement of The Waterfront outdoor spaces with interior dining venues for Moderno; Cagney's; Shaker's; La Cucina; Malting's and Ocean Blue.

La Cucina celebrates the Tuscan countryside and will continue to serve Norwegian's delicious Italian dishes to guests who choose dine either al fresco on the outdoor patio on The Waterfront, in the main restaurant or the interior terrace option, giving guests the opportunity to dine along the interior walkway beneath twinkling lanterns, exposed wooden beams and greenery.

Moderno Churrascaria is Norwegian's signature Brazilian-style steakhouse. Whether guests dine indoors or out, they will feast from a huge salad bar, followed by a variety of grilled and slow-roasted meats that are carved tableside by passadors. Norwegian's signature establishment Cagney's Steakhouse will feature succulent grilled steaks, perfectly cooked double cut lamb chops and other steakhouse favorites. Guests will dine in style amidst warm wood tones as they enjoy watching the chefs prepare their meals in the open kitchen. Located between Cagney's and Moderno, Prime Meridian will offer guests the opportunity to order a signature cocktail and soak in the action taking place around them on 678 Ocean Place. Guests will also find retail outlets, the photo gallery, and a Cigar Lounge on Deck 8. A three-story open atrium with an exquisite LED chandelier with light changing effects will serve as the centerpiece of 678 Ocean Place with openings to all three decks and glass staircases connecting the levels.

Spanning more than 18,000 square feet on Deck 7, the contemporary Getaway Casino will have a stylish sophistication created by the use of rich materials, luxurious ornamental lighting and highly decorative artwork including gold tiles and upscale finishes. Getaway Casino will offer guests the opportunity to try their luck on 310 of the latest slot machines; along with 26 gaming tables featuring poker, black jack, roulette and craps. With the most rewarding Casinos At Sea Players Club program, there will be something for everyone, from the novice to the high roller. Bar 21, located adjacent to the Casino, is a stunning, intimate bar featuring video poker and multiple plasma television screens.

Due to the popularity of the noodle bar on Norwegian Epic and soon on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway will feature Shanghai's Noodle Bar, the largest noodle bar at sea. This exciting dining concept will offer all counter seating around an open kitchen and will serve traditional Chinese noodles, wok-fried dishes and dim sum.
 
Another guest favorite, O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar & Grill, returns on Norwegian Getaway. This 24-hour a day neighborhood sports bar and restaurant will serve classic American favorites and comfort food. It will feature a giant two-story screen, perfect for watching sports and movies, along with miniature bowling, pool and air hockey tables and interactive games.
 
A popular hotspot on several Norwegian ships, Bliss Ultra Lounge has been re-designed on Norwegian Getaway to resemble a true hotspot. Guests will feel the excitement as they walk through the LED-lit tunnel entrance to the illuminated bar, LED walls and pulsating dance floor where they will dance the night away.
 
Savor, one of the three complimentary main dining options on Norwegian Getaway, will feature cuisine that is traditional with a contemporary flair. Across from Savor, is where guests will find Taste, another complimentary main dining venue. Taste will serve a variety of culinary delights to please every palate. Both restaurants feature clean lines and upscale, contemporary décor. Located between Savor and Taste is Mixx Bar, the perfect, pre- or post-dinner gathering place, with a modern twist to a classical design.
 
Norwegian's signature Teppanyaki restaurant will continue to dazzle guests on Norwegian Getaway complete with a traditional Japanese rock garden, featuring bamboo plants and bonsai trees to promote a pleasing aesthetic ambiance. With 96 seats surrounding 12 flat top grills, Teppanyaki chefs will showcase their knife-wielding skills while cooking exhibition-style Japanese cuisine. Guests will be amazed by the masterful chefs while they enjoy an appetizing meal. Guests can also enjoy a variety of a la carte sushi and Japanese dishes at Wasabi Sushi Bar.
 
Le Bistro, Norwegian's signature French restaurant, will feature an elegant indoor setting, along with a European sidewalk-style dining opportunity which will overlook the social hub of the ship, 678 Ocean Place. Guests will marvel at the three-story cascading LED chandelier above them, along with the constant flow of people as they dine on classic French favorites.
 
Within the Atrium, located on Deck 6, guests will find a two-story video wall along with the Café and Bar at The Atrium. The Café will offer specialty coffees and fresh baked treats. The Bar at The Atrium will feature mixed drinks, along with a self-service wine bar. The Shore Excursion Desk, Internet Café and Art Gallery will be located in close proximity to the Atrium, along with two meeting rooms, card room and library.
 
Currently being built at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Getaway will be 146,600 gross tons and offer a wide range of accommodations. The ship represents an opportunity for the Norwegian guest to "get away" from the routine of work, school, and daily stress, and find a true respite at sea that reflects the energy and culture that Miami is known for worldwide.
 
The ship will also feature a rich mix of stateroom options, including The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 Suites at the top of the ship in an exclusive, private key-card enclave and 22 additional Suites located throughout the ship; the innovative Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; a wide range of Oceanview staterooms, Balcony and Mini-Suites; along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa. Norwegian Getaway's sister ship, Norwegian Breakaway, will begin sailing from her year-round home port of New York City in May 2013.
 
Norwegian Getaway will sail seven-day cruises from Miami to the Eastern Caribbean beginning on February 1, 2014, with ports of call including Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean casts Kristin Chenoweth in new starring role for Quantum of the Seas

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: More News More News

Published: 25 February 2013 25 February 2013

Triple-threat, Emmy and Tony award-winning Kristin Chenoweth, is adding yet another accolade to her impressive resume: godmother to Royal Caribbean International’s much anticipated new cruise ship, Quantum of the Seas.  The cruise line announced the appointment, which is steeped in maritime tradition, in an unconventional way during a red carpet-inspired commercial that aired during ABC television network’s broadcast of the Oscars.

Exemplifying what it means to be a leading lady both onstage and off, Chenoweth was chosen for her effervescent personality and ability to wow audiences. Her versatile range of roles made her a natural fit, given that Quantum of the Seas, set to debut in fall 2014, is poised to introduce unprecedented experiences and amenities only attainable on Royal Caribbean International.

Historically an honor reserved for heads of state, politicians and celebrities, godmothers not only break a bottle to christen a ship, but also serve as guiding spirits to its guests and crew. Royal Caribbean looks to capture the essence of the role by choosing women whose life lessons and achievements illustrate the kind of courage, dedication and determination that are an inspiration to all.

“Kristin’s effortless grace and dynamic performances align perfectly with our newest class of ships and we could not be more honored to have her represent Quantum of the Seas,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.  “Working with such a remarkable and versatile woman for one of maritime’s longest standing traditions is an exciting experience.”

Known for their world class entertainment, Royal Caribbean was the first cruise line to introduce fully-licensed Broadway productions onboard its ships and currently features Saturday Night Fever, Hairspray and Chicago: The Musical.  With Chenoweth’s renowned background as an entertainer, the two perfectly complement each other with their commitment to delivering authentic and engaging entertainment.

“I am so excited to be named godmother of Royal Caribbean International’s newest ship, Quantum of the Seas. I have been lucky to play many roles and I am looking forward to this one,” stated Kristin Chenoweth. “I think the Royal Caribbean brand is the perfect match for me, especially with their history of providing exceptional entertainment experiences to their guests.”

The Quantum class of ships, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, will build upon Royal Caribbean’s legacy of revolutionary ship design and bold innovation. At 158,000 gross registered tons (GRT) and with a capacity of 4,100 guests based on double occupancy, the ships will debut in fall 2014 and spring 2015, respectively.

“Our ships have always been designed for WOW and with Quantum of Seas, we are excited to introduce Quantum cruising and the ‘at sea’ firsts that our guests have come to expect from Royal Caribbean,” said Adam Goldstein, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “We look forward to working with Kristen and having her officially name our ship when she is delivered in the fall of 2014.”