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PHOTO STORY: Oasis of the Seas sails now from Bayonne, New Jersey

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 07 September 2021 07 September 2021

The iconic Oasis of the Seas recently started sailing from the New York area – Bayonne, New Jersey. The revolutionary ship touts seven neighborhoods unique to Royal Caribbean, complete with the Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea; Central Park, filled with more than 20,000 real plants; rock climbing walls, the cruise line’s debut barbecue restaurant Portside BBQ, and showstopping entertainment across four stages – ice, water, air and stage.

Fincantieri floats out Norwegian Prima

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 13 August 2021 13 August 2021

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) today announced that its game-changing new ship, Norwegian Prima was floated out from her drydock at Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera (Venice), Italy, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the new vessel touches water.

To celebrate the occasion, a commemorative coin was welded to Norwegian Prima in a traditional maritime ceremony presided over by Eamonn Ferrin, vice president of international business of Norwegian Cruise Line and Antonio Quintano, shipyard director of Fincantieri.

The float out signifies the completion of external works and painting to Norwegian Prima, including the striking hull artwork designed by Italian graffiti artist Manuel Di Rita, known commonly as "Peeta." Work now continues on Norwegian Prima's interior fittings and guest accommodations, before it is officially delivered to the Cruise Line and commences sailing in summer 2022.

"A ship's float out is always a significant milestone, but this one is particularly special," said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Our 18th ship, Norwegian Prima represents an exciting new chapter for our Brand and the first vessel to be delivered in our groundbreaking new Prima Class. We've worked closely with our partners at Fincantieri to deliver a truly remarkable vessel. Their passion, skill and craftsmanship has brought to life one of the most stylish and innovative ships to ever set sail. I'm thrilled we're now one step closer to welcoming our guests onboard in just 12 months' time," Sommer concluded.

"The float out of Norwegian Prima signifies a renewed confidence in cruise and a new era for shipbuilding," said Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of the merchant ships division of Fincantieri. "We are glad to celebrate not only many months of hard work, but also the true spirit of collaboration between our brands – a partnership that will lead the way for a pioneering class of ships in NCL’s Prima Class."

Norwegian Prima is the first of six ships in NCL’s highly anticipated Prima Class, the Brand’s first new class of vessels in nearly 10 years. At 965 feet long, 142,500 gross tons and with capacity for 3,215 guests at double occupancy, the vessel is designed to put guests first. Norwegian Prima boasts wide-open spaces, thoughtful and stunning design, and a variety of new experiences for the Brand.

Laying claim to the title of the most spacious new cruise ship in the premium and contemporary categories, Norwegian Prima offers the most outdoor deck space and the most expansive accommodations of any new build. She boasts multiple Company firsts, including Ocean Boulevard, wrapping around the entire deck over 44,000 square feet, allowing guests to connect to the ocean while enjoying alfresco dining and unique experiences such as Infinity Beach, where two stunning infinity pools are positioned to take in the vastness of the ocean with uninterrupted views, and Oceanwalk, where two glass bridges will make guests feel as though they are walking on air over the water.

Dining is elevated on Norwegian Prima with the addition of Indulge Food Hall, the Brand’s first upscale open-air marketplace offering diverse menu items from a variety of eleven different culinary venues. In addition, Ocean Boulevard hosts three restaurants; Onda by Scarpetta, Los Lobos and The Local Bar & Grill.

Meanwhile The Haven by Norwegian on Norwegian Prima offers the Brand’s most exclusive and centralized ‘ship-within-a-ship’ suite complex. Spanning eight decks of suites and public areas, it is accessible via private elevators and located at the aft of the ship for the very first time.

Designed to be more open to the sea than ever before, every public area in The Haven will offer spectacular views, together with a stunning new infinity pool overlooking the ship's wake and a new outdoor spa with a glass-walled sauna and cold room.

Commencing summer 2022, Norwegian Prima will offer bucket-list itineraries in Northern Europe with voyages from Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Copenhagen, Denmark giving guests the opportunity to explore the stunning Norwegian Fjords and Baltic Sea. She will then sail a 12-day transatlantic voyage from Southampton to New York via Scotland’s Shetland Islands, Halifax in Nova Scotia and an extended overnight stay in Reykjavik, Iceland. Through the fall and winter, Norwegian Prima will offer a variety of port-rich Bermuda and Caribbean cruises from New York; Galveston, Texas; Miami and Orlando (Port Canaveral), Fla., including calls to Harvest Caye, the Company’s private resort destination in Belize as well as the Company’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas.

Atlas Ocean Voyages' first ship commences service

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 04 August 2021 04 August 2021

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ first, newly constructed expedition ship World Navigator has launched. Designed for discerning, fun-seeking travelers, World Navigator brings guests on all-inclusive, luxury adventures to remote and captivating destinations around the world and serves up regionally inspired gourmet cuisine; unlimited premium wines and spirits, international beers, and specialty coffees; and a choice of a complimentary land excursion at every port. Atlas’ All Inclusive All the Way promise also includes complimentary round-trip air travel and ground transfers for a complete and seamless luxe-adventure voyage. As one of the most anticipated new ships of the year, World Navigator is Atlas’ first newly constructed small ship, appointed in retro-chic elegance, for an immersive and personalized travel experience. World Navigator is sailing 7- to 12-night Egypt and Greek Isles voyages for her inaugural summer 2021 season and reposition via the Mediterranean, Caribbean and South America to sail 9- and 12-night expeditions in Antarctica.

“We are happy to welcome Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Navigator into service,” said Mário Ferreira, Chairman of Mystic Invest Holding, parent company of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “For more than 25 years, Mystic has grown from a single river boat, offering daytours on the Douro River, to building and operating more than 60 river, ocean and expedition ships, which deliver authentic cultural experiences around the world. Atlas Ocean Voyages is the latest Mystic brand and embodies the company’s evolution of superior service, unforgettable experiences and luxuriously designed ships.”

World Navigator offers 98 suites and staterooms, ranging from the 183-sq.-ft. Adventure Staterooms to the ship’s signature one-bedroom, 466-sq.-ft. Navigator Suite. In March 2022, World Navigator will be the first ship to offer Solo Suites. All suites and staterooms are infused with European sophistication; incorporate modern technological conveniences; and include a stocked mini-refrigerator; L’OCCITANE bath amenities; slippers, robes, and binoculars to use on board; Nespresso coffee; teas; and personalized bar service, and butler service in suites.

“We are proud to launch World Navigator and inaugurate Atlas’ distinctive luxe-adventure cruising for discerning, fun-seeking travelers,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “Atlas is the industry’s first new luxury brand in more than twenty years and World Navigator is designed to bring today’s luxury travelers on genuine, cultural experiences and adventures to remote and fascinating destinations around the world. On board, guests can enjoy elegant accommodations, entertainment, dining options, and amenities usually found on larger ships.”

World Navigator features SeaSpa by L’OCCITANE, the first luxury L’OCCITANE spa at sea. SeaSpa’s holistic, sensorial menu of therapies are hand-performed with authentic ingredients from Provence, certified in origin and proven effectiveness. The 950-sq.-ft. spa comprises two therapy rooms, a detoxing infrared sauna, and a serenity lounge with soothing vistas of the passing oceanscape through expansive windows. Guests also can maintain their daily regimen in the ships Fitness Studio featuring TechnoGym equipment.

The Atlas and Dome Lounges feature lively entertainment, led by accomplished performers who engage guests in pop, stage, and American classics sing-alongs. World Navigator’s Entertainment Director, Sean O’Shea, will also perform sensational, feature cabarets in the Dome Lounge in the evenings. Guests also enjoy movies, port presentations, live entertainment, and informative lectures in the Dom Henrique Auditorium.

All guests on all voyages can explore Atlas’ regionally inspired gourmet fare through six dining options. Porto celebrates Atlas’ Portuguese heritage and is World Navigator’s main dining room, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a choice of indoor and al fresco seating. The restaurant also offers the special Alma Portuguese cuisine menu, available on alternate evenings for dinner. 7Aft Grill is World Navigator’s chophouse, featuring Black Angus filets and New York strip steak, among others. Paula’s Pantry café serves a variety of specialty sandwiches; salads; soups; cookies and cupcakes; specialty coffees made with small batch-roasted, organic, and Fairtrade-certified CaffèMilano beans; Kusmi teas; and fresh detox juices. The Dome Lounge also features afternoon tea and refreshments, and guests can order room service from a breakfast or “always available” menu featuring soups, sandwiches, and salads.

Offering one of the industry’s highest space-to-guest, World Navigator is newly constructed with the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures incorporated into her state-of-the-art, elegant design. All staff and crew are trained in and observe stringent health protocols, and guests participate in health screenings prior to boarding and during the voyage.

All land excursions and tours are conducted in small groups, led by expert and screened local tour guides, with transportation operated at reduced occupancies to provide ample personal space. Whisper Mic radio headsets are also used on land excursions and tours to allow guests to remain socially distant while still enjoying the guides’ commentary.

Atlas’ signature All Inclusive All The Way provides all guests a complete and seamless experience by including complimentary round-trip air travel, choice of a shore excursion at every port, unlimited premium wine and spirits, international beers and coffees, prepaid gratuities, polar parkas, emergency medical evacuation insurance, WiFi and L’OCCITANE bath amenities. In every stateroom, guests enjoy robes, slippers and binoculars to use on board, personalized coffee, teas and bar service, and butler service in suites.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is a luxe-adventure expedition cruise brand designed for discerning, fun-seeking travelers to immerse in unique and awe-inspiring moments in remote and captivating destinations. At 9,930 gross tons, the ship fosters a refined and convivial ambience and is Polar Category C- and Ice Class 1B-certified. World Navigator will be joined by sister-ships World Traveller and World Seeker in 2022 and World Adventurer and World Discoverer in 2023.

Photos from the top: Atlas Lounge, World Navigator

Silversea reveals largest-ever destination offering with 2023/2024 cruises

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 27 July 2021 27 July 2021

Silversea Cruises today opened an exclusive pre-sale to Venetian Society members on more than 280 new itineraries for 2023/2024, unveiling its largest-ever destination offering in a single itinerary launch.

Bringing the total number of destinations visited by the leading ultra-luxury cruise line to over 900 – more than any other line – Silversea’s new 2023/2024 itinerary collection features a record 690 destinations in 125 countries, across all seven continents, as well as over 60 maiden calls.

Between March 2023 and May 2024, the cruise line’s 10 ships will unlock an unrivalled range of immersive experiences around the world for guests. And, with private executive transfers included as standard on all voyages in the collection, Silversea has enhanced its all-inclusive offering, which is already among the most comprehensive at sea. Moreover, until November 30,2021, guests can reserve their suites aboard voyages in Silversea’s new 2023/2024 itinerary collection with a reduced deposit of just 15%.

“Responding to strong guest demand for a broad range of far-flung destinations, our new 2023/2024 itineraries will offer guests even more opportunities to discover the world’s most enriching experiences in all seven continents,” says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s President and CEO. “From deep explorations of the Red Sea to new itineraries in the Arabian Peninsula, new autumnal departures in the Norwegian Fjords, and our first summer sailings in Canada and New England, we have utilised nearly three decades of destination leadership to curate unforgettable experiences for our well-travelled guests. With three new ships in our fleet – Silver Origin, Silver Moon, and Silver Dawn – and our most inclusive offering to date, our guests will travel in superlative comfort, enjoying our trademark level of service and the hallmarks of luxury that set a Silversea voyage apart.”

Below are highlights of the new 2023/2024 voyage collection, which will open for sale to the general public on August 11, 2021:

18 voyages to Africa and the Indian Ocean, including all-new Arabian Peninsula voyages

Brand new oceangoing and expedition itineraries in Africa and the Indian Ocean focus on the East Coast of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Four ships—Silver Cloud, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit and Silver Moon – will offer 18 voyages across the region. A pair of Silver Cloud expedition cruises will delve deep into the archaeological and historical heritage of the Arabian Peninsula and the Red Sea, offering the chance to explore such UNESCO-listed gems as the ruins of Oman's Sumhuram and Saudi Arabia's Al-Hijr (also known as Hegra), while kayaking and snorkelling adventures await at scenic Lac Assal in Djibouti. On another itinerary, Silver Cloud will make a maiden call to the Comoro Islands off Africa's southeastern coast to discover amazing land and marine wildlife, with an extended stay in the Seychelles' UNESCO-listed Aldabra Atoll. Moreover, guests will enjoy immersive safari experiences in Richards Bay and Port Elizabeth on new South Africa voyages.

38 voyages to 134 destinations in Northern Europe, including Silversea’s first expeditions in the Baltic Sea

Calling in 134 destinations, 38 new itineraries in Northern Europe will complement Silversea’s existing offering in the region, which includes voyages in the Baltic Sea, Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords, and the British Isles. As well as Silversea's first-ever expeditions in the Baltic Sea, the new itinerary collection will feature remote destinations across the Finnish coast; new Norwegian Fjords departures in autumn, offering the chance to spot the fall foliage and the Northern Lights; and a diverse array of expeditions in the British Isles, including two Silver Cloud journeys visiting such remote places as Foula Island in Scotland's Shetland archipelago—home to an abundance of puffins and ponies. The ship will also make a maiden call to the island of Colonsay in Scotland's Inner Hebrides, where guests will be treated to historical treasures and varied flora and fauna. New Atlantic Coast itineraries during the harvest season will include calls in Leixões (Porto), Bilbao, and Bordeaux, among other destinations.

36 voyages, including a Grand Voyage, aboard four ships for an extended season in the Mediterranean

An extended season in the Mediterranean, spanning from April to December 2023, will offer 36 voyages to showcase such marquee regions as Iberia, the Western Mediterranean, Italy and the Adriatic, along with an enriched Eastern Mediterranean programme, including departures later in the season and more variety in the Holy Land and Egypt. For example, a 2023 Silver Moon voyage of 12 days will feature extended stays in Jerusalem and Istanbul, as well as a full day in Alexandria, focusing on the region’s historical heritage. While, in the Western Mediterranean, exclusive experiences of the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix highlight a nine-day Silver Moon sailing with an overnight in Monte Carlo. In addition, Silversea's innovative culinary programme, S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste), will offer travellers the possibility to savour regional specialities on board Silver Moon and Silver Dawn.

Increased variety in Alaska, with 31 voyages aboard two ships, including maiden calls

A total of 31 voyages aboard Silver Muse and Silver Whisper will offer increased variety in Alaska, while one Russian Far East expedition aboard Silver Wind will showcase the region’s most remote destinations. Combinable for extended exploration, two new 7-day itineraries in Alaska aboard Silver Whisper will take guests to the region’s most iconic ports, including Ketchikan and Juneau, incorporating a bear watching experience and opportunities to witness breathtaking glaciers. These two voyages will include maiden calls to Icy Bay, formed by the retreat of three glaciers, and the scenic town of Valdez, offering the chance to explore the Columbia Glacier.

Silversea’s first summer itineraries in Canada and New England, including calls in Quebec, Montreal, and Boston

Silversea's first-ever summer sailings in Canada and New England will take place during an extended season in the region, which stretches from August to October 2023. With eight ocean voyages aboard Silver Shadow and one Silver Cloud expedition, Silversea guests will have the opportunity to admire the region's summertime scenery for the first time. Fall itineraries have been extended to include an overnight call in Boston.

12 expeditions to the Arctic and Greenland, with a 24-day crossing of the Northwest Passage

Guests will explore the Arctic and Greenland on 12 expedition voyages in the summer of 2023, hosted aboard Silver Cloud and Silver Wind, with one ship devoted to Greenland throughout the entire summer season. Among the highlights are two new Silver Cloud voyages encompassing Disko Bay and South Greenland, featuring inaugural visits to the majestic Lindenow and Tasermiut fjords. On two nine-day expeditions, Silver Wind will explore Norway's remote Svalbard Archipelago, where walrus, reindeer, seals, whales and seabirds abound. New expeditions to Baffin Island offer the chance to experience authentic Inuit culture and spot an abundance of wildlife, from polar bears, walrus, and bowhead whales, to orcas, narwhals, and beluga whales.

17 departures for Antarctica, with the opportunity to cruise Cape Horn from Puerto Williams

Both Silver Cloud and Silver Wind will unlock the icy wilderness of Antarctica on 17 expedition cruises now departing from Puerto Williams, Chile. Sailing from November 2023 to March 2024, the Antarctic Peninsula voyages offer the chance to cruise Cape Horn, the iconic gateway between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. More itineraries will call in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, for opportunities to witness the vast penguin colonies and other remarkable wildlife. Silver Cloud will offer convenient Antarctica Bridge options, enabling guests to skip the Drake Passage and fly in Business Class straight to Antarctica to start their cruise.

25 departures for Australia and New Zealand, with maiden calls, new itineraries and a farewell season in the Kimberley for Silver Explorer

Silversea will launch its largest ever season in Australia and New Zealand with 15 voyages aboard Silver Muse and Silver Whisper, offering more in-depth explorations of the New South Wales coast with calls in Eden and Jarvis Bay, as well as overnights in Tasmania. Silver Explorer, meanwhile, will embark upon 10 expeditions in the region during her farewell season, with seven immersive voyages along Australia's Kimberley Coast – two of which will follow brand new itineraries. In addition to Silversea's iconic 10-day Kimberley journeys, Silver Explorer will offer two 17-day itineraries between Darwin and Perth, enabling guests to discover the Montebello Islands, the Dampier Archipelago and the Abrolhos Islands, as well as a hugely popular 18-day itinerary from Cairns to Broome. Silversea’s destination experts have crafted these itineraries to showcase the most authentic experiences in the region, with extended calls in the most iconic cities for unforgettable discoveries of the region’s food and drink culture. Silver Muse will unlock the region’s best golfing opportunities, with extended, full-day calls during 14-day voyages.

Other noteworthy deployments include a set of 16 voyages devoted to Asia, offering the chance to visit Japan during the cherry blossom season with in-depth explorations of 10- and 14-days; four voyages to South America aboard Silver Explorer and Silver Wind; 15 voyages to the Caribbean and Central America aboard Silver Shadow and Silver Dawn; and 50 expeditions aboard Silver Origin, which will take guests closer to the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands.