Meraviglia-Plus vessels to offer 200 more cabins than Meraviglia class

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Written by Kari Reinikainen Kari Reinikainen

Category: More News More News

Published: 02 February 2016 02 February 2016

The two Meraviglia-Plus vessels MSC Cruises contracted at STX France yesterday will feature 2,444 cabins, which is 200 more than the two Meraviglia class vessels previously on order.

They will also be longer at 330.7 metres (1,085 feet) compared to 315.8 metres of the earlier pair.

An interior promenade 362 feet-long and it will feature 310 by 20 feet LED sky screen above it will display visual events and vistas around the clock to animate the entire promenade from above to create an unique atmospheric experience.

MSC Cruises and Cirque du Soleil have co-designed and built dining and entertainment venues that centre around the theatrical, aecrobatic style of shows that will be performed. “In addition to the exciting entertainment, MSC Meraviglia-Plus ships will feature a unique, cultural experience for guests at sea with the first of its kind classic and contemporary fine art museum,” MSC Cruises said.

Furthermore, Meraviglia and Meraviglia-Plus ships will look to set a new standard in smart ships. The recently announced partnership with Samsung will deliver state-of-the-art, next-generation technology. “MSC Cruises guests will be delighted by the latest displays, mobile solutions and medical equipment as well as products for enhanced reality experiences. “

The two new ships will be worth $1.7 billion, the company said in a statement.

Pandaw adds ship to Mekong, unveils Ecuadorian river cruise programme

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Written by Kari Reinikainen Kari Reinikainen

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Published: 01 February 2016 01 February 2016

Pandaw River Cruises said it will iuntroduce a new ship on the Mekong River in South East Asia, the Yunnan Pandaw. Sister ship to the Laos Pandaw, the Yunnan Pandaw will have 12 main deck and 2 upper deck staterooms, a stunning observation deck and dining room. “Launching in September this year she will operate the same 14-night itinerary as the Laos Pandaw – all the way from Vientiane in Laos to Jinghong in China.

The company has also announced the launch of a new 10-night partner programme in Ecuador, including a 7-night river expedition on the Napo River, which is a tributary of the Amazon River aboard MV Anakonda.

“Our programme includes a stay in Quito, with a walking tour of the UNESCO protected old city and a visit across the equator to Otavalo, famous for its local craft market,” the company said in a statement.

“A trip to Ecuador is not complete without a visit to the Galapagos Islands. We offer a choice of options to extend: either aboard the expedition cruise ship M/V Galapagos Legend or if you prefer to stay on terra firma, based in a hotel on Santa Cruz Island with daily included excursions,” it continued.

Just before Christmas, Pandaw acquired a 22 berth ocean going yacht that it will introduce on coastal voyages in Burmese and Indonesian waters as a replacement for a chartered vessel.

Pandaw is operated from Singapore and domiciled in London, where it is registered as the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, Ltd.

Emerald Waterways’ newbuilding hit by fire at Dutch shipyard

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Written by Kari Reinikainen Kari Reinikainen

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Published: 01 February 2016 01 February 2016

Emerald Belle, a river cruise ship newbuilding being fitted out at a shipyard in the Netherlands, was damaged by a fire while on dockside over the weekend, Dutch media reports say.

The fire broke out around 0:45 am on 31 of January, on the ship, while it was docked at Shipyard Den Breejen, in the Rivierdijk in Hardinxveld.

The 135 m long vessel, which can accommodate 180 passengers, was still at the building dock and scheduled to be delivered in end of February for entering operations by Emerald Waterways. At the time of the fire, no passengers were on board and no one was reported injured during the incident, the reports say.

Emerald Waterways operates currently four river cruise ships in European rivers, mainly Rhine, Main, Danube and Mosel rivers. The fire damaged “Emerald Belle” was scheduled to be the 5 vessel to sail on European river.

Azamara Journey emerges from dry dock

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 30 January 2016 30 January 2016

Departing Freeport, Bahamas for Miami, Azamara Journey, the first of Azamara’s two ships undergoing “major upgrades,” has been outfitted with new venues, public spaces and technologies to bring fresh services and amenities to guests.

“There is no area on the ship that has not been touched,” says Larry Pimentel, President and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises. “Known for our land programs to provide our guests with the most personalized Destination Immersion experiences in the industry, Azamara needed to take our onboard product to the next level. Cruise ships are like fine hotels, after wear and tear, upgrades need to be made. We can’t wait to have our new and loyal guests onboard to see what we have done. It’s gorgeous and provides all the modern services and amenities that today’s traveler needs and demands. I think we have exceeded expectations.”

Azamara contracted several of the world's leading design consultants for the hospitality, leisure and entertainment industries, to help transform its ships into modern oases at sea. As Azamara Journey comes out of dry dock, all stateroom and suites have had an overhaul creating an ambiance that is comfortable as well as timeless and elegant. Authentic materials were used, with beautiful stone and porcelain throughout and custom design. Two new Spa Suites have been built adjacent to the Sanctum Spa featuring an elegant look with organic and muted colors providing exclusive access to unique spa amenities that will be included in the price of these staterooms. And, the Club World Ocean and Owner’s Suites have also been fully redesigned.

Additionally, Azamara Journey’s new dining and entertainment enhancements throughout the entire ship are revealed including makeovers to The Patio, Windows Café, Discoveries Restaurant and Discoveries Bar, the Living Room and Cabaret Lounge:

The Patio

A guest favorite onboard, formerly known as the Pool Grill, The Patio was completely transformed into a sit-down al fresco dining experience. The area now features beautiful tablecloths and candles in the evening creating a fresh ambiance. New lighting, ceilings and fans added modern elements to the renovated look. The décor won’t be the only refresh as The Patio also serves up a new evening menu to be enjoyed amidst some of the most stunning oceanside backdrops in locales around the world. In the evening, interested dinner guests can occasionally enjoy live music alongside their meal. After dinner and a movie, travelers looking to satisfy their sweet tooth can stop by the new Swirl & Top self-serve frozen yogurt station to indulge in a variety of flavors and choice of toppings.

Windows Café

Dining offerings indoors are not to be left out as Windows Café has been reinvigorated with contemporary furniture and place settings. Tables for two were added, allowing more options for couples or the ability to combine tables to accommodate larger parties, or to join a group of friends for a meal. For those looking to dine while watching the sunset, Windows’ outdoor dining area and Sunset Bar is right out the back door, with a rejuvenated look and the same stunning views.

Discoveries Restaurant and Discoveries Bar

Discoveries Restaurant is continuing the reimagination trend. The refreshed restaurant features a warm and inviting atmosphere with new décor, lamps, seating, and sheers. A variety of different sized tables are offered to accommodate groups of all sizes with ease.

Discoveries Bar received a modern makeover as well with new bar stools, sofas, chairs and tables, sheers, painting and wood trim. The bar provides a tranquil and friendly atmosphere with a rich blend of tailored and refined elements for guests.

Living Room

Guests will feel right at home in the new and improved Living Room (formerly the Looking Glass Lounge). The relaxing area offers guests the comfort of a well-furnished space, featuring cozy chairs and sofas and a handcrafted wooden wine table. Passengers can sample tastes and entertainment from morning until night with the following options:

– Daytime Fare: From 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. enjoy a selection of fine teas and coffees along with delicious breakfast pastries, finger sandwiches, and sweets.

– Afternoon Delight: From 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. each day guests may choose from a variety of tasty hot and cold tapas with a mix of Spain’s eclectic and sophisticated flavors. The onboard sommelier will be happy to suggest the perfect red, white, or rosé wine or champagne to pair accordingly.

In the evenings the Living Room livens up into a space for dancing, karaoke or live music from one of the ship’s onboard musicians followed by a house DJ, playing music to keep the party going well into the night. On occasion, specialty performances will entertain guests while other nights the Chef may surprise Living Room dwellers with delectable featured desserts. Whether stopping by for a light bite or staying for the entire evening, The Living Room serves up entertainment and culinary offerings for guests day and night.

Casino and Spirits

The Casino received new slot machines, sleek carpets, and reupholstered seating with custom-designed fabrics. And, of course, the Casino wouldn’t be complete without a proper location in close proximity for a cocktail, the transformed Spirits bar will available for guests just a stone’s throw away.

The Azamara Quest will enter dry dock in April 2016 in Singapore.