NYCEDC Announces Single Operator and $38.5 Million in Capital Improvements for Manhattan and Brooklyn Cruise Terminals

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 28 May 2017 28 May 2017

Photo credit: Teijo Niemelä

New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has announced the selection of Ports America to operate both Manhattan and Brooklyn Cruise Terminals through 2029. As part of the new agreement, Ports America has agreed to invest $38.5 million in capital improvements across both terminals, strengthening New York City’s position as one of the country’s premiere cruise ports.

As part of the agreements, Ports America will be responsible for vessel berthing and stevedoring, maintenance, parking, security, billing, and additional operations at both terminals. Ports America will also provide ancillary services such as event management and military and yacht dockings.

With the successful partnership of Council Member Corey Johnson and the entire City Council, the lease agreement with Ports America was approved this week for the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, the final approval needed for NYCEDC’s operator selection. Ports America has agreed to invest $23.5 million in capital improvements at Manhattan Cruise Terminal, which will include new capacity for larger vessels and improvements to Pier 90, among other investments.

Brooklyn Cruise Terminal will be receiving $15 million in capital investments, conceived through a partnership with Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, which will include an increased capacity for larger vessels, among other improvements. Borough President Adams initiated this project with a $1.2 million capital allocation in Fiscal Year 2016, and supplemented the effort with an additional $1 million grant in Fiscal Year 2017.

The designation of a single terminal operator will lower costs and streamline operations between the two terminals, which will create new opportunities to secure long-term agreements with cruise lines. Ports America has managed and operated the Manhattan Cruise Terminal in successful partnership with the NYCEDC for two decades, generating substantial growth in cruise volumes.

“New York City’s rich maritime history must continue to inform and strengthen our current economy. Our partnership with Ports America marks continued progress in leveraging the City’s waterfront assets to create jobs, attract tourists, and drive growth in an important industry. I want to thank the elected officials in both Manhattan and Brooklyn for their leadership in securing a vibrant future for our two cruise terminals,” said NYCEDC President and CEO James Patchett.

"For more than two years, my administration has been intensely focused on the revitalization of the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, and the working waterfront as a whole, envisioning a future where the port's infrastructure and services are able to attract and accommodate the high level of tourism traffic that our borough is excited to welcome,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams. “Today, as a result of a process that began by leveraging our capital budget in FY16 and FY17 to invigorate this conversation, we are one big step closer to Brooklyn becoming a top-tier player in the global cruise industry. This $15 million investment by Ports America is a game-changer for economic development in Red Hook and our entire waterfront, as well as the complementary impact it will have on businesses and cultural institutions across our borough. I am so proud to have worked with the International Longshoremen's Association and local stakeholders, as well as the leadership at NYCEDC, to make this a reality."

“The cruise industry is a major economic driver for New York City,” said Council Member Corey Johnson, “and I’m pleased that this new agreement will help us grow our position in this industry while directing more revenue to Hudson River Park. I want to thank the Economic Development Corporation for striking a competitive deal that brings additional resources to local communities.”

"I welcome Ports America to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. New capital investments mean increased cruise operations in Red Hook will create jobs and be a good neighbor. Residents will be glad to hear that the new operating agreement requires zero-emissions environmental controls. I thank the NYEDC for identifying a robust operator, and for locating our new NYC Ferry dock adjacent to the Cruise Terminal. The arrival of Ports America will help the entire Atlantic Basin maritime property live up to its potential for responsible economic development," said Council Member Menchaca.

“Ports America is energized about the future of the cruise industry in NYC under these new agreements,” said Steve Loevsky, Vice President - Cruise, Ports America. “We are also implementing strategies that will increase vessel calls and passenger volumes, while enhancing the overall guest experience, asset utilization and safety. Ports America looks forward to our continued partnership with NYCEDC and our cruise line partners to provide for world-class facilities and services at both the Manhattan and Brooklyn Cruise terminals.”

“We’re very happy that a stevedore has been selected, and we’re looking forward to building and strengthening our relationships with Ports America and the NYCEDC at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal,” said Louis Pernice, President of Local 1814.

“As President of ILA Local 824, I am pleased with the good news of the approval. This will bring stability to the members, and the hard workers that have been serving the cruise industry in Manhattan for over 105 years,” said Ronald Misiti, President of Local 824.

NYCEDC released a request for proposals (RFP) for a new operator for both Manhattan and Brooklyn Cruise Terminals in 2015.

Cruise has long been a critical industry to New York City’s economy. In 2016, over a million passengers cruised through New York City and the industry accounts for hundreds of millions of dollars in annual economic impact. New York City’s cruise industry also accounts for over 1,000 full-time jobs through the International Longshoremen’s Association, the Port Police and Guard Union, and employees in accommodation, retail, and food and beverage sectors.

Crystal River Cruises' expansion continues with keel laying of Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 26 May 2017 26 May 2017

On May 24, Crystal River Cruises ushered in the next phase for its expanding “Rhine Class” fleet of river vessels, as the keels were laid for the company’s next two new-builds, Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel at a ceremony at MV WERFTEN shipyard in Wismar, Germany. In spring 2018, the two all-balcony, all-suite vessels are set to embark on their maiden voyages along Europe’s mightiest rivers: the Rhine, Main and Danube.

In the presence of Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Chairman and Chief Executive of Genting Hong Kong; Jarmo Laakso, Managing Director of MV WERFTEN; Josef Lumetsberger, Crystal River Cruises’ General Manager of Operations; Manfred Korous, Managing Director of Future Development and Director, Crystal River Cruises; and Harry Glawe, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s Economics Minister, plus numerous distinguished guests, the first sections of the luxury vessels were ceremoniously lowered into position on keel blocks.

Tan Sri Lim and Minister Glawe placed the traditional lucky coins on the keel blocks before the first two sections, each weighing 170 tons, were laid down. "We are pleased to celebrate this important milestone, the start of the block assembly, for two more ships for our brand Crystal River Cruises today at our own shipyard. These ships will offer their guests the highest standards in luxury cruising on Europe's most beautiful river routes," said Tan Sri Lim during the keel-laying ceremony.

“This ceremonial act represents a tremendous achievement for Crystal River Cruises and the entire Crystal fleet, as we introduce the next chapter of the continuing story of Crystal innovations throughout the travel and hospitality industry,” said Crystal CEO and President, Edie Rodriguez.

All-Suite, All-Balcony, All-Butler

The most prominent features aboard Crystal’s “Rhine Class” river vessels: the river cruising industry’s first all-balcony, all-suite designs boasting every category of accommodation perched above the waterline. All four river yachts will also offer Crystal’s acclaimed butler service in every room category, plush king-sized beds that face toward the Panoramic Balcony-Windows, walk-in closets and dual vanity in the bathrooms in most categories, ETRO robes and slippers, wall-mounted flat-screen HD TVs, and Nespresso machines. Additional enticing features include Crystal’s farm-to-table, Michelin-inspired cuisine in multiple, open-seating eateries: the elegant Waterside Restaurant, namesake Bistro cafés and the exclusive Vintage Room; and the Palm Court.

The building of the river yachts – and other upcoming vessels for the Crystal fleet – at the MV WERFTEN Shipyard is significant as well, given that the yard shares a familial connection with Crystal. Crystal’s parent company Genting Hong Kong completed the acquisition of the Lloyd Werft and Nordic Yards in 2016 in anticipation of the company’s extraordinary brand and fleet expansion, which, by 2022, will see four new build luxury river yachts, the world’s first purpose-built polar class Crystal Endeavor mega-yacht and the first of Crystal Cruises’ Exclusive Class polar class ocean ships with Crystal Residences constructed at the yard.

Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel will measure approximately 135 meters in length and 11.5 meters in breadth, accommodating 106 guests in Crystal’s signature, all-suite luxury. Beginning in spring 2018, Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel, respectively, will sail routes of seven, 10 and 14 days between Amsterdam, Basel and Vienna.

Norwegian Bliss' keel laying ceremony held at Meyer Werft in Germany

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 24 May 2017 24 May 2017

Norwegian Cruise Line and MEYER WERFT today celebrated the keel laying of Norwegian Bliss at the yard’s state of the art facility in Papenburg, Germany. During the ceremony, one of the keel blocks of the 167,800 gross ton vessel was lifted into the covered building hall, signifying a major milestone in the ship’s construction. Norwegian Bliss is due for delivery in April 2018 and will be the first cruise ship custom built with features and amenities for the ultimate Alaska cruise experience.

Andy Stuart, Norwegian Cruise Line’s president and chief executive officer, was present in the hall and laid the traditional “lucky coin”, etched with the outline of the ship’s signature hull designed by wildlife artist Wyland, before the block was lowered into place.

“We are overjoyed to celebrate the keel laying of Norwegian Bliss, our sixteenth ship and sure to be our most innovative ship to date,” Stuart said. “We have seen overwhelming anticipation and excitement from our guests and travel partners for Norwegian Bliss, from her awe-inspiring custom-designed spaces like her observation lounges to her elegant suites in The Haven by Norwegian®, and we are all thrilled to see this magnificent ship begin to come to life with the craftsmanship, precision and cutting edge technology that MEYER WERFT consistently delivers.”

The third ship in the line’s Breakaway-Plus class, Norwegian Bliss will accommodate 4,000 guests and will be the 12th ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet to be built by MEYER WERFT.

“We are very happy to celebrate the start of the block assembly for another newbuild with Norwegian Cruise Line. This ship will be another milestone in our collaboration to create the most efficient and innovative cruise ships,” said Tim Meyer, Managing Director of MEYER WERFT.

During her inaugural summer 2018 season, Norwegian Bliss will sail weekly seven-day Alaska cruises each Saturday from the recently expanded Pier 66 Cruise Terminal in Seattle, offering guests the premier way to see America’s last frontier, while also providing all of the innovative features, entertainment, signature dining and onboard experiences that Norwegian Cruise Line is known for around the globe. The ship’s itinerary will feature calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Victoria, British Columbia, along with scenic glacier cruising. Norwegian Bliss will sail her inaugural Winter season beginning in November 2018, sailing seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises each Saturday from PortMiami, featuring calls in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas.

Norwegian Bliss’ curated design will offer guests the freedom and flexibility to “Imagine Bliss” and create their ideal experience at sea, with a wide variety of accommodations including luxurious suites in The Haven by Norwegian®, Studio staterooms for solo travelers with virtual ocean views, and new connecting staterooms ideal for large groups and families traveling together. Norwegian Bliss will also feature two observation lounges, including one exclusive to guests of The Haven®, perfect for whale watching in Alaska or taking in sunsets in the Caribbean.

Norwegian Cruise Line will take its award-winning entertainment programming to the next level aboard Norwegian Bliss, bringing the best of Broadway to sea, with the 2006 Tony Award® winner for “Best Musical,” Jersey Boys, and a completely new and original show created by Tony Award®-winning director and choreographer Warren Carlyle, headlining on the ship’s main stage, the Bliss Theater. Norwegian Bliss will also feature a new theatrical cocktail hour experience, Happy Hour Prohibition-The Musical. Alibi, the ship’s reimagined comedy club and nightlife venue will feature two comedy performances six nights a week. Rock and roll will take center stage at The Cavern Club, an outpost of the legendary Liverpool club where the Beatles’ performed frequently in the 1960s, with nightly live performances and a Beatles cover band singing hits like “Penny Lane,” “Yellow Submarine,” and more.

Continuing its tradition of featuring original artwork on its ships’ hulls, Norwegian Cruise Line has commissioned Wyland, one of the world’s premier marine life artists, to design the hull art for Norwegian Bliss; the artwork will feature images of humpback whales, found in every ocean around the world. The ship’s hull will serve as a large canvas to showcase the importance of ocean conservation and preservation.

Seabourn Odyssey debuts The Grill by Thomas Keller and mindful living program by Dr. Andrew Weil

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 24 May 2017 24 May 2017

Seabourn Cruise Line has announced major enhancements to the travel experience aboard Seabourn Odyssey, including the new addition of its signature restaurant, The Grill by Thomas Keller, and the new mindful living program created by Dr. Andrew Weil.

The programs are launched following a recently completed dry dock period for Seabourn Odyssey, where many surfaces and spaces aboard the ship also underwent meticulous, thoughtfully designed updates. Among them, The Spa has been refreshed, and the Fitness Center features new equipment. All suites have been recarpeted, and Seabourn's new bespoke luxury mattresses have been added. Newly designed furniture has been placed in the Wintergarden, forward Owner's and Signature suites. Guests will also find new carpet, furniture, teak flooring, and refinished woodwork throughout the ship.

"The additions of The Grill by Thomas Keller and Spa and Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil continue a new chapter in Seabourn's long history of offering the finest guest experiences in luxury travel," said Seabourn President Richard Meadows, noting Seabourn Odyssey as the third of the cruise line's four ships to offer The Grill and the second to feature Dr. Weil's program. "Through our outstanding partnerships with Chef Keller and Dr. Weil, we are excited to expand these programs on Seabourn Odyssey, with a fleet-wide rollout scheduled to be completed by the end of this year."

Inspired by the classic American chophouse, The Grill by Thomas Keller is a collaboration between three-star Michelin chef Thomas Keller and designer Adam D. Tihany, exclusively for Seabourn.

The ship is also launching Spa and Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil, a mindful living program offering guests a holistic spa and wellness experience that integrates physical, social, environmental and spiritual well-being. Eventually destined for every ship in the Seabourn fleet, Dr. Weil's program is the first-ever of its kind available at sea.

The Grill by Thomas Keller

Located on Deck 8, The Grill by Thomas Keller focuses on updated versions of iconic dishes where guests are treated to American chophouse classics as well as a range of other steakhouse favorites. The timeless menu draws on many artisan purveyors, while the wine list of domestic and old world labels personally curated by Chef Keller complements each dish.

The interior design by Adam D. Tihany enhances the dining experience with spaces that are distinctive to the ship, yet defined by intimate settings with an elegant and warm masculine quality. The Grill by Thomas Keller is located in newly renovated spaces formerly occupied by Restaurant 2, which was extensively refit during the dry dock period.

Chef Thomas Keller began his partnership with Seabourn in 2015 and underlines the luxury cruise line's commitment to offering outstanding guest experiences. The Grill is now featured on Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Quest, and Seabourn Odyssey, with Seabourn Sojourn scheduled for opening in late 2017. Seabourn Ovation will launch with the restaurant in May 2018.

Spa & Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil

Created in conjunction with The Onboard Spa by Steiner, Spa and Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil will be led by Seabourn Odyssey's onboard Mindful Living Coach, a certified yoga and meditation practitioner whose role is to inspire and educate guests throughout the voyage.

Central to the program is the daily practice of meditation and yoga, with some sessions offered on a complimentary basis. Guests can experience Mindful Meditation, which will introduce positive affirmations and mantras they can reflect on throughout the day. Yoga classes will be varied, offering guests the ability to choose classes that focus on various physical issues, such as yoga to heal back and joint pain, headaches and body alignment, as well as yoga to enhance creativity, mental focus and happiness.

The wellness program will also offer guests some complimentary Mind and Body seminars designed to educate guests on philosophies and practices that are aligned with the program's mission. Onboard seminars adapted from Dr. Weil's best-selling books and research include: Spontaneous Happiness & Spontaneous Healing; Anti-Inflammatory Foods; Healthy Aging; and Introduction to Mindful Meditation. Individualized one-on-one wellness sessions on select topics are also available for a fee.

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