Getting The Truth out of Cruise Line Brochures
Cruise line brochures are intended to seduce potential passengers with wonderful, enticing buzzwords and copy. Sure some of it waxes true. But before you get too excited about finding nirvana, here are 10 of the most popular expressions and what they really mean:
1. Nautical speak: “Many small luxury ships like to boast,”We call at exotic ports where mega-liners fear to tread.” Translation: Okay you may find some big ships where we dock, but hey there are just not enough ports to go around so we sometimes do have to pull into a port along dozens of other ships.
2. Nautical speak: “All our staterooms are suites” Translation: Well it depends on the definition. Sure a suite normally means a bedroom and living room separated by a closing door but hey we have big cabins with a sitting room and even a curtain that divides it from the bedroom.
3. Nautical speak: “Our balcony spans 250 square feet.”
Translation: Boy are you picky. Okay so maybe it’s only 40-50 sq ft, but that makes the entire stateroom 200 square feet.”4. Nautical speak: “Gourmet food.”
Translation: Need we say more? If you’re talking landside gastronomy, forgetaboutit. But some ship’s alternative restaurants do come close, and small luxury liners even closer. However you probably will be disappointed in the regular dining rooms on the bigger guys.5. Nautical speak:
“Fare includes all meals, entertainment and shipboard activities.” Translation: Except when it doesn’t such as eating in alternative restaurants which can cost anywhere up to $40 per person for the privilege. Or certain exercise classes that are no longer free on some ships. Or soft drinks and water, the latter that sometimes costs a king’s ransom (we paid $7 plus tip for a bottle of Evian once). Even ice cream on some ships is extra. Currency exchanging machines have also become a profit center at $1.50 or more per transaction. 6. Nautical speak: “Gratuities are included in fare.”
Translation: If so specified, this is usually true. However some cruise lines speak through both sides of their mouths and add, “Unless you would like to reward a crew member for exceptional service.” Excuse me. Or when certain passengers feel the need to do so anyway and the crew snaps up the offering like a piranha. 7. Nautical speak: “Las Vegas or Broadway-style entertainment.”
Translation: Okay we want to believe this it’s not our fault that the talent often doesn’t have any. {In all fairness, some ships do stage lavish productions but for the most part keep your expectations realistic. Unless a big name entertainer is on the bill shows do not always live up to the brochure hype. But still most are diverting enough to keep the senior citizenry awake (well almost).8. Nautical speak: “Stateroom phones allow you to phone home and stay in touch.”Translation: While this is true, what the brochure doesn’t mention is the $10 a minute and up you’re charged for the privilege.9. Nautical Speak: “All staterooms are equipped with television access to CNN 24-hours a day.
Translation: True, on the rare occasions CNN actually comes in.
10. Nautical speak: “Our full-service spa offers all the latest in salubrious treatments and pampering.
Translation: True, there are shipboard spas and they do offer an extensive menu of therapies. What they don’t tell you is how much it costs (plenty!).
-30-
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Passenger Rates The Ruby Princess
The Savvy Seafarer welcomes letters from passengers about their experiences on various ships. "This is from a man who sailed on the Ruby Princess, which he says, had her ups and downs (like most seagoing vessels)..The opinions are solely the letter writer's and do not reflect theSavvy Seafarer's thoughts on the matter. He writes:
Hi,
I thought that I would send you a quick note as to our impression of the Ruby. As you know, we were going out on her 6th cruise, and were able to go to all of our scheduled stops (we were told that only one other cruise were able to make all their stops). The ship was very nice, I didn't sign up for the internet because I was told it was very slow and not worth the money. That is why I waited until now to reply. I will start with things from the beginning.
The terminal in Fort Lauderdale is terrible. I am very familiar with the port Canaveral cruises and those terminals are like the Tajmahal in comparison. But the boarding process was quick. The rooms were very nice, the refrig. in the room didn't keep things very cold. And in general the staff wasn't very friendly or at least as friendly as the past cruises I have been on. It could be that the ship is new and they are still getting their crew adjustments made. There were never enough towels in the room (they supply 2 of each towel).
The meals were very good but we noticed that they weren't seasoned very much and had a bit of a bland taste. None at our table were familiar with a lot of the items on the menu and the menu didn't describe what they were (we had to ask the waiter to describe them). The only thing to drink on board was coffee (it was the best of all the ships I have been on) hot tea and Ice Tea. There was no lemonade or fruit punch and at the diningroom you have to pay for soda.
And even though the waiter really was working hard he had too many tables to take care of and there for we rarely got out of the dining room in less than two hrs.
The parties on deck had no food or drinks other than the normal waiters. Other cruise lines we have been on, when having a deck party always had food. These parties weren't very much like parties. The theme nights were a disaster, none of the passengers knew when they were and weren't given advance notice so we would know what to bring on the cruise.
The big screen tv was hard to hear unless you were able to get a seat right in front of the screen, but the movies were fairly new and had a good variety.
The pictures that were for sale were very pricey $24.95 each sheet and if you bought 3 sheet you would get a 4th free but you had to buy all 4 at the same time. We all agreed that we would have bought many more photos if they were less expensive. I hate the thoughts of all those pictures being destroyed.
As to the up side. They have the best entertainment of all the cruises I have been on! The singers, the dancers and comedians were fantastic and a lot of shows at different places on the ship. We never had enough time to do everything we wanted to do. I only made it to the gym once the whole cruise (I wanted to go more). I didn't make it to the Golf simulator (I wanted to do that also). The dance lessons were fantastic. But I would suggest that they do a dvd and offer them for sale to those who take the lessons. We forgot most of what we learned and would love to review after we got home. The only thing we remember is the Waltz. I have to give the cruise directors a standing ovation! Starting with James and his entire staff!
If they wanted to sell more off ship excursions, they may want to try sending a dvd to each person who books a cruise with a very brief teaser of each tour or activity. After we got back and hear from other passengers of their outings I wished I would have scheduled more. The zip line through the rain forest sounded great and they loved the ride! I would have also like to have been on the castle tour. I wasn't very impressed with the tour to the rum cake factory. And it is always nice to say you have been to Hell but the reality of the trip didn't impress me. I would have liked to have had a tour of the high end condos and houses for sale at each stop. In fact I believe that it should be integrated with a real estate agent. The agents would sell more and each home owner could get a cut of the action? Estates, Castles, Penthouses, resorts etc. Another tour I would like to see developed is of the historic areas of Jamaica! It seems like the area has really gone down hill since it has been given it's independence. I am sure there are a lot get building to be seen.
One of the things that I didn't like was that we had to be back on board the ship at 3:30 each stop. Other ships we had until late in the evening. On the last few days the sale Items weren't very varied. A lot of ships had hats and a wide variety of things a reduced prices.
My one real concern is the casino! I didn't see anyone really winning there. I heard very few machines paying off and the whole time I was there the blackjack was terrible. I would have loved to have had them open a shuffling machine and examine the cards. I have never seen so many low cards in play in my life. I could even play the back jack machine (quarters) and win constantly but almost always lose at the tables. In fact I played about 1 hr. a day and in the whole time I was there only had one blackjack. That is an almost a statistical impossibility. So my advise to anyone who would sale on the Ruby is the following:
1: read the Patter and carry it everywhere, there are plenty of great things to do on board.
2: carry a camera and have someone take photos of you when their photographer is taking pictures. You won't get quite the same affect but not many of us can afford hundreds of dollars in all the different poses.
3: check the blogs about the tours.
4: Don't gamble! And if you do, expect to lose on the Ruby! A lot your self only gambling money for fun! It still isn't much fun when everyone is losing!
I would like to go back to those locations but there are a lot of other cruise lines that I would like to sail with. But at least I can say I was on a brand new ship!
"finding your Island home" Frank A. HerdmanBroker Associate
The Savvy Seafarer responds: during my cruise the slot machines were also sluggish paying and I didn't see many people collecting coins. However the crew on my cruise was top of the line. Unlike Frank I didn't like the coffee, it was weak and watery and tasted funny. I was only on a two-day press voyage so didn't get to do excursions. The shows on all Princess ships are almost always some of the best at sea. I hate early sailings from ports that leave little time to explore because my husand and I usually go off on our own and take our time. Photos have always been pricey so it's best to bring a digital camera and take your own, there's always an accomodating fellow passenger who is happy to take your picture.
Okay readers, send me more letters.
Savvy
.
Hi,
I thought that I would send you a quick note as to our impression of the Ruby. As you know, we were going out on her 6th cruise, and were able to go to all of our scheduled stops (we were told that only one other cruise were able to make all their stops). The ship was very nice, I didn't sign up for the internet because I was told it was very slow and not worth the money. That is why I waited until now to reply. I will start with things from the beginning.
The terminal in Fort Lauderdale is terrible. I am very familiar with the port Canaveral cruises and those terminals are like the Tajmahal in comparison. But the boarding process was quick. The rooms were very nice, the refrig. in the room didn't keep things very cold. And in general the staff wasn't very friendly or at least as friendly as the past cruises I have been on. It could be that the ship is new and they are still getting their crew adjustments made. There were never enough towels in the room (they supply 2 of each towel).
The meals were very good but we noticed that they weren't seasoned very much and had a bit of a bland taste. None at our table were familiar with a lot of the items on the menu and the menu didn't describe what they were (we had to ask the waiter to describe them). The only thing to drink on board was coffee (it was the best of all the ships I have been on) hot tea and Ice Tea. There was no lemonade or fruit punch and at the diningroom you have to pay for soda.
And even though the waiter really was working hard he had too many tables to take care of and there for we rarely got out of the dining room in less than two hrs.
The parties on deck had no food or drinks other than the normal waiters. Other cruise lines we have been on, when having a deck party always had food. These parties weren't very much like parties. The theme nights were a disaster, none of the passengers knew when they were and weren't given advance notice so we would know what to bring on the cruise.
The big screen tv was hard to hear unless you were able to get a seat right in front of the screen, but the movies were fairly new and had a good variety.
The pictures that were for sale were very pricey $24.95 each sheet and if you bought 3 sheet you would get a 4th free but you had to buy all 4 at the same time. We all agreed that we would have bought many more photos if they were less expensive. I hate the thoughts of all those pictures being destroyed.
As to the up side. They have the best entertainment of all the cruises I have been on! The singers, the dancers and comedians were fantastic and a lot of shows at different places on the ship. We never had enough time to do everything we wanted to do. I only made it to the gym once the whole cruise (I wanted to go more). I didn't make it to the Golf simulator (I wanted to do that also). The dance lessons were fantastic. But I would suggest that they do a dvd and offer them for sale to those who take the lessons. We forgot most of what we learned and would love to review after we got home. The only thing we remember is the Waltz. I have to give the cruise directors a standing ovation! Starting with James and his entire staff!
If they wanted to sell more off ship excursions, they may want to try sending a dvd to each person who books a cruise with a very brief teaser of each tour or activity. After we got back and hear from other passengers of their outings I wished I would have scheduled more. The zip line through the rain forest sounded great and they loved the ride! I would have also like to have been on the castle tour. I wasn't very impressed with the tour to the rum cake factory. And it is always nice to say you have been to Hell but the reality of the trip didn't impress me. I would have liked to have had a tour of the high end condos and houses for sale at each stop. In fact I believe that it should be integrated with a real estate agent. The agents would sell more and each home owner could get a cut of the action? Estates, Castles, Penthouses, resorts etc. Another tour I would like to see developed is of the historic areas of Jamaica! It seems like the area has really gone down hill since it has been given it's independence. I am sure there are a lot get building to be seen.
One of the things that I didn't like was that we had to be back on board the ship at 3:30 each stop. Other ships we had until late in the evening. On the last few days the sale Items weren't very varied. A lot of ships had hats and a wide variety of things a reduced prices.
My one real concern is the casino! I didn't see anyone really winning there. I heard very few machines paying off and the whole time I was there the blackjack was terrible. I would have loved to have had them open a shuffling machine and examine the cards. I have never seen so many low cards in play in my life. I could even play the back jack machine (quarters) and win constantly but almost always lose at the tables. In fact I played about 1 hr. a day and in the whole time I was there only had one blackjack. That is an almost a statistical impossibility. So my advise to anyone who would sale on the Ruby is the following:
1: read the Patter and carry it everywhere, there are plenty of great things to do on board.
2: carry a camera and have someone take photos of you when their photographer is taking pictures. You won't get quite the same affect but not many of us can afford hundreds of dollars in all the different poses.
3: check the blogs about the tours.
4: Don't gamble! And if you do, expect to lose on the Ruby! A lot your self only gambling money for fun! It still isn't much fun when everyone is losing!
I would like to go back to those locations but there are a lot of other cruise lines that I would like to sail with. But at least I can say I was on a brand new ship!
"finding your Island home" Frank A. HerdmanBroker Associate
The Savvy Seafarer responds: during my cruise the slot machines were also sluggish paying and I didn't see many people collecting coins. However the crew on my cruise was top of the line. Unlike Frank I didn't like the coffee, it was weak and watery and tasted funny. I was only on a two-day press voyage so didn't get to do excursions. The shows on all Princess ships are almost always some of the best at sea. I hate early sailings from ports that leave little time to explore because my husand and I usually go off on our own and take our time. Photos have always been pricey so it's best to bring a digital camera and take your own, there's always an accomodating fellow passenger who is happy to take your picture.
Okay readers, send me more letters.
Savvy
.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Sneak Peek at Silversea Cruises' New Spirit
Silver Spirit photos compliments of Silversea Cruises
Here's your Savvy Seafarer on a Silversea Cruise from Los Angeles to Auckland a couple of years ago. What a voyage that was.
The Silver Spirit, is set to debut in lavish style with a Grand Inaugural Voyage on January 21, 2010. On this extraordinary 91-day journey, dubbed "The Spirit of South America," Silver Spirit will sail from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles and twist back to New York on a fascinating itinerary highlighted by a visit to Rio de Janeiro in time for Carnaval, a journey around the end of the earth at Cape Horn, an in-depth exploration of the Mexican Riviera, a crossing of the Panama Canal and an unforgettable Statue of Liberty event in New York Harbor.
Here's your Savvy Seafarer on a Silversea Cruise from Los Angeles to Auckland a couple of years ago. What a voyage that was.
The Savvy Seafarer is a big fan of Silversea Cruises so pardon the gushing, but I love this casual chic cruise line with its gourmet cuisine, spacious stateroom suites, super crew and all-inclusive fare. I'm talking everything from soft drinks and spirits to tips and some shore excursions. I love The Bar where everyone meets before dinner, the dine when and where you want attitude, the large pool, great fitness classes, low key entertainment and general ambiance. So I'm delighted the company's adding a new, bigger and, if possible, better ship to its tiny fleet in January in January 20010. The Spirit will make her bow in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and then embark on a 90 day voyage. The company's offering inaugural fares so check it out at http://www.silversea.com/.
Straight From the Corporate Mouth:
Here's the company's release on the Inaugural Season:
The Silver Spirit, is set to debut in lavish style with a Grand Inaugural Voyage on January 21, 2010. On this extraordinary 91-day journey, dubbed "The Spirit of South America," Silver Spirit will sail from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles and twist back to New York on a fascinating itinerary highlighted by a visit to Rio de Janeiro in time for Carnaval, a journey around the end of the earth at Cape Horn, an in-depth exploration of the Mexican Riviera, a crossing of the Panama Canal and an unforgettable Statue of Liberty event in New York Harbor.
Having Reservations
Silversea will begin accepting reservations on January 12. An area of the company's website (http://www.silversea.com/) is now dedicated to Silver Spirit. "As the new year begins and the construction of our new ship moves forward steadily, I am delighted we're able to reveal some of the highlights of her much anticipated inaugural season," said Amerigo Perasso, Silversea's president and CEO. "When Silver Spirit sets sail, she will embody the hallmarks of Silversea's understated elegance and distinct luxury with even more spacious suites, expansive spa facilities and enticing epicurean venues."
GRAND INAUGURAL VOYAGE
The "Spirit of South America" odyssey, stops at more than 45 ports in over 20 different countries and island destinations across two continents, enjoying overnight stays in Fort Lauderdale, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Punta Arenas, Lima, Acapulco and Los Angeles. In addition, guests on the full voyage will be invited to attend the naming ceremony, a gala dinner event on the eve of departure with accommodations aboard ship, exclusive shoreside events in select ports of call, and a VIP evening at the Rio Carnival, not to mention special commemorative gifts and a $2,000 per suite onboard spending credit. A complimentary Business Class air upgrade is also available for guests who purchase Silversea's optional air program. Fares for the full Grand Inaugural Voyage start at $39,187 per person, based on double occupancy, and include "Extended Voyage Savings" of 5% -- plus enhanced "Early Booking Incentive" and new "Extended Advance Payment Bonus" discounts applicable to voyages in 2010. (The company plans to announce more details about these generous new savings options shortly.) Other highlights of the inaugural itineraries include an 11-day "Holiday Spirit" maiden voyage (#5901) on December 23, 2009, sailing from Barcelona to Lisbon; a "Maiden Crossing" (#5001), departing January 3 from Lisbon for 16 fascinating days exploring the Atlantic and Caribbean islands before arriving in Fort Lauderdale; and a two-week grand "Atlantic Crossing (#5011) to Southampton from New York on April 23. After completing her inaugural season, Silver Spirit will spend the summer in the Mediterranean and then reposition to the Caribbean for fall and winter cruises.
The Suite Life
The Suite Life
The 36,000-ton, 540-passenger luxurfy liner features the largest suites in the fleet -- 95% feature a private veranda -- and with one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea today, 67, providing 6,700 cubic feet of space per guest. The onboard décor will lend a sophisticated 1930s Art Deco ambience to the public spaces, highlights of which include an indoor/outdoor spa measuring no less than 8,300 square feet (770 square meters), three whirlpools (two adjacent to outdoor pool, one in spa area), enriching performances in The Show Lounge and a choice of six dining venues including Seishin, a Japanese restaurant, and the innovative Stars Supper Club, featuring live music, dancing and nightclub-style entertainment. A new full-color, 36-page brochure showcasing Silver Spirit's Inaugural Season will be available in the coming weeks. To order a complimentary copy, visit http://www.silversea.com/ or call toll-free (877) 215-9986. Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard four intimate vessels, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, and Silver Whisper, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents. In the U.S., Silversea has been voted "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and Travel + Leisure (seven times), and rated Number-One luxury cruise line by high-net-worth consumers in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI). International awards include "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2007); "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice" survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (2007); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel & Style Magazine (2009); and "Best Luxury Cruise Operator" according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008). (877) 215-9986 or visit http://www.silversea.com_/
Early Booking Discounts
Early Booking Discounts
Silversea is offering "Early Booking Incentive" and "Advance Payment Bonus" programs for 2010. Designed to reward plan ahead travelers, the Early Booking Incentive (EBI) discount ranges from 10% to 30% off the published cruise fare, while the Advance Payment Bonus (APB) option provides an additional 5% savings for guests who make full payment six months prior to sailing. Starting with voyages in 2010, the Early Booking Incentives will range from 15% to 35% and a new Extended Advance Payment Bonus (XAPB) will offer a second, more generous savings level of 15% for payments made in full one year prior to sailing. "We recognize that given the current economic environment, travelers may be tempted to postpone their purchase decisions, including vacations," said David Morris, Silversea's executive vice president of worldwide sales and marketing. "Yet it is times like these when people are most in need of an uplifting diversion, so we want to encourage travelers by offering our best deals early." Added Morris, "Our enhanced 'Advance Payment' and 'Early Booking' programs are designed to help consumers firm up their travel plans as early as possible in order to take advantage of very generous fare discounts. When guests book and pay in full a year before sailing, they can enjoy savings of up to 50% and better appreciate the tremendous value of an all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise experience. Ultimately, our goal is to reduce or eliminate the need for additional tactical promotions like our 'Silver Sailings' discount program." Silversea will announce its 2010 schedule shortly and start accepting reservations on January 12, following a private presale this week to members of the company's Venetian Society past-guest loyalty club. For guests wishing to benefit from the new Extended Advance Payment Bonus on voyages departing during the first quarter of 2010, an introductory grace period will allow them to receive the 15% XAPB savings on top of the applicable EBI discount provided they make their full payment by March 31, 2009.
The Jaunty Fleet
Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, and Silver Spirit offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance, while the Prince Albert II provides special educational voyages to seven continents.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
The Ruby Princess Set to Sail
Your savvyseafarer, Patti Pietschmann is off to see the new Ruby Princess next month. So be sure to come back to learn all about the innovations and changes Princess Cruises has implemented on the line's latest creation. I can't wait. You can also check out more information about the mega liner at www.savvyseafarer.wordpress.com.
And from the public relations department, this just in.....The 3,070-passenger vessel will feature the familiar favorites that have become passenger pleasers aboard its sister ships Crown Princess and Emerald Princess but, in addition, other special touches and innovations will be found throughout the service, dining and entertainment areas.
"The new features aboard Ruby Princess are a perfect example of our commitment to provide passengers with the widest array of intriguing options to customize their cruise vacation," said Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president.
Many of the ship's enhancements are slated to become staples across the Princess fleet following their debut on Princess' newest ship. Among the new features being introduced on Ruby Princess:
Wheelhouse Bar Pub Lunch - On sea days, Ruby Princess' Wheelhouse Bar will be transformed into an authentic English-style pub, serving a selection of traditional fare. A menu of British favorites, including bangers & mash, fish & chips, ploughman's lunch and cottage pie, will complement a selection of traditional pub brews such as Stella Artois, Bass Ale or Guinness. Pub lunch meal service is free of charge and will run from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Sabatini's Breakfast for Suite Passengers - Suite passengers aboard Ruby Princess will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive breakfast in Sabatini's. Beginning with a "Good Morning Mimosa," the menu features a variety of breakfast favorites, plus specialty items such as brioche French toast with apple & cinnamon compote, yogurt and super granola parfait with raspberry swirl, soft-poached egg over potato & vegetables with hollandaise sauce, and freshly made Belgian waffles. Suite passengers can enjoy this new amenity, along with the restaurant's dramatic top-of-ship views, from approximately 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Artisan Cheeses at Vines - In addition to serving more than 30 wines by the glass and seafood appetizers that have made Vines a passenger favorite, the atrium-area bar on Ruby Princess will now feature a selection of domestic and imported artisan cheeses. Twelve varieties - including unique choices such as boschetto al tartufo bianchetto, reblochon, and cambozola - will be featured each day for a nominal fee. Vines will also host a series of lively events where passengers can meet members of the ship's staff, and will continue to offer wine flights and parings.
New Enrichment Programs - A number of new ScholarShip@Sea enrichment programs debut aboard Ruby Princess to expand passengers' horizons, whether they aspire to host the perfect party or increase their maritime knowledge. The Art of Entertaining offers passengers the opportunity to learn party-planning tips from lifestyle expert Susie Coelho via a multimedia presentation hosted by the cruise director. Navigation@Sea focuses on the history of navigation as well as the complexities of plotting the route of a modern cruise ship, with a presentation by the ship's navigator. Mixology@Sea lets passengers channel their inner bartender with a hands-on course taught by the ship's bar manager. For star gazers, the new Astronomy@Sea program provides passengers with the opportunity to explore the night sky through a telescope on the top deck, with the expert guidance of a ship's bridge officer. Developed in conjunction with Dr. Thomai Serdari, Professor of Art History and Director of Research Collections for New York University, Art History@Sea: Botticelli to Warhol, The Evolution of Art makes 500 years of art come to life with a special hour-long presentation.
Two New Production Shows - Ruby Princess audiences will be able to enjoy two new Princess-produced shows in the ship's theater. "Broadway Ballroom" presents the music of the 'Great White Way' with a ballroom flair, pairing the songs of hit musicals with dance numbers ranging from foxtrot to rumba. The show also features the talents of a costume designer and choreographer from the TV hit "Dancing with the Stars." Meanwhile, "Once Upon a Dream" uses unique multidimensional cinematic projection to follow a dreamscape unlike anything seen a sea. The audience will accompany a young woman's journey as she dreams of everything from a tea party in an English garden to singing camels in the desert, and even a trip through a waterfall and brief nightmare before waking to a new day.
The Audience Gets in the Act - A variety of new audience-participation events will also debut on the ship, giving passengers a number of ways to seek their 15 minutes of fame. Karaoke fans can go a bit farther with Love Boat Legends, where they are actually transformed into a famous artist of the past. So You Wanna Be A Rock Star? moves beyond pre-recorded Karaoke tunes to give audience members the opportunity to rock out with a live band on stage. Oceans of Talent puts passenger talent center stage - whether they play a musical instrument or want to try out their comedic timing. The Wake Up Show takes Princess' popular morning show with the cruise director to a new level with an irreverent talk show format, live band, special guests and an opportunity for passengers to join the "studio" audience, as the show is taped in the evening before its broadcast the next morning.
A Few Fine Touches - A number of new service touches will be introduced to delight passengers. In the Horizon Court buffet, new waffle stations will offer fresh cooked-to-order waffles at breakfast and throughout lunchtime, and the buffet will also begin serving complimentary lemonade as a beverage choice. In the evening, passengers will find a selection of canapés in several of the ship's public lounges. Passengers arriving back from shore will be greeted with chilled face cloths, and by the pool, "misting stewards" will offer a quick refreshing spritz with Evian to cool off.
Kid Stuff - Young passengers can enjoy a new Wizards Academy, an exclusive presentation from the award-winning California Science Center. This enriching new program lets children explore the connection between science and magic in a fun and participative environment. Kids will also enjoy activities and projects from popular arts and crafts company Klutz, or participate in Yoga for Kids, a healthy and fun course designed specifically for children.
Wireless Internet and Cell Phones - Expanding on Princess' Internet and phone connectivity, Ruby Princess will offer laptop users additional wireless hotspots around the vessel, including staterooms. The ship will also be equipped so that passengers can use their personal cellular phones, if they have international roaming plans, while onboard.
Ultimate Ship Tour - A new exclusive opportunity to experience an array of "back of house" areas that are key to a ship's daily operations, the Ultimate Ship Tour will give passengers the unique opportunity to explore beyond the public areas with visits to the ship's engine control room, medical center, print shop, laundry, photo lab, funnel, bridge and other spaces. In addition to getting a rare insider's view of many areas typically seen only by the ship's crew, participants will receive a variety of themed mementos at many of the stops along the route.
Ruby Princess featuresa dramatic piazza-style atrium featuring small-bite eateries and an ever-changing array of performing street entertainers, Princess' signature adults-only oasis called The Sanctuary, Sabatini's Italian restaurant, Crown Grill seafood and steak house, "Movies Under the Stars" giant outdoor movie screen, and Hearts and Minds wedding chapel. The ship will feature an inaugural season of Western Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, followed by a program of Mediterranean voyages in summer 2009.
1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
About Princess Cruises:
One of the best-known names in cruisingtour company operating a fleet of 17 modern ships renowned for their innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all provided in an environment of exceptional customer service. A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess offers its passengers the opportunity to escape to the top destinations around the globe, with sailings to all seven continents, ranging in length from seven to 107 days. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
The Savvyseafarer Welcomes You Aboard
Hello, Welcome to savvyseafarer.com, where I espouse my views from the bridge on the wonderful world of cruising, particularly the luxury variety. I am the Savvy Seafer especially since I've taken more than 200 cruises during my career as a travel writer/journalist.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Intro to Cruising 101 Plus the Latest Cruise News Fit to Blog
Introduction To Cruising 101
Hi, welcome to the savvyseafarer.com where I blog the cruise industry with news, first hand reports, opinions(I have my favorites) and hopefully (see below) a little humor. Enjoy and feel free to send comments or questions.
A Little Cruise Humor
A savvy seafarer with hundreds of voyages under my nautical belt, I’ve learned a few things about cruising and selecting the right vessel. First of all it’s good to pick a ship that can stay afloat. It’s no fun flailing around in the open sea worrying about being eaten by sharks. Or for that matter stuck in a lifeboat with a bunch of people you hardly know and wouldn’t really want to be with it you did.
Therefore a skilled navigator is very important. You want someone who can steer the ship through the water without incident—avoiding mountains, ice bergs, sand bars and other seagoing vessels at all costs.
There also must be an authoritative-looking captain who is drop-dead handsome, barely speaks English and always appears to be walking around the deck lost in deep converstion with a crew member, making you wonder who’s watching the bridge. Ditto for the ship’s doctor who when you see him makes you work harder at staying healthy.
The ideal cruise ship always sports an amiable cruise director with an ear-to-ear grin plastered on his or her face, who gushes non-stop over every nautical mile the ship sails, like they’re relieve it made it that far.
The perfect vessel is well-stocked with life boats. Which, in non-emergencies are used as launches to tote passengers ashore during those times when the ship must drop anchor outside the port. Because: 1. Nobody paid the port fees; 2. The navigatorhasn’t got a clue how to fit the big boat in the tiny slot allotted at the pier; or 3. Why bother. Anyhow these boats are invariably driven by crew members who think they’re competing in the Indy 500.
As a rule, a cruise always begins with at least two choppy nights at sea. Sometimes the ocean is so rough everything in your cabin crashes to the floor providing you with an opportunity to reacquaint yourself with al the unnecessary stuff you’ve lugged on board. Which sometimes includes your mate.
This phenomenon seems to occur with regularity during the captain’s welcome on board or farewell galas. Probably to give the commandant an opening to utter quips like, “As you know we also refer to a ship as a her or she, and well a woman’s breasts sometimes heave.” Or something like that which makes queasy passengers feel like upchucking the mystery hors d’oeuvres they’ve just scoffed down. But the nearest restroom is invariably located as far away as possible.
Speaking of captains’ fetes, on the ideal ship, the captain greets passengers gathered for their watered-down Manhattan (or at least I think that’s what the dark stuff with the cherry is), with the utmost sincerity when he says that they are the best bunch ever to sail with him on the SS Bullship. While it's true food flows freely aboard most cruise ships, this doesn't mean passengers are obligated to consume massive amounts of extra calories. However unfortunately many seafarers waddle down the gangplank on the day of departure wearing a size larger than when they began the voyage. Mostly because fork lifting took precedence over weight lifting or exercise. Hey it will come off when you get home and back into a routine. Andtrying new food and having seconds, thirds, fourths or even fifths on dessert is half the fun. Right?
Things to know before you board. & while you're there: NO drinks aren't fee. With the exception of all-inclusive cruise lines such as Seabourn and Silversea where wine, booze and soft drinks are proffered at no extra cost, water, soda, booze and wine will cost you and often big time, however Crystal Cruises does not charge for soda or water, but does for wine and liquor. Some companies won't even let you take your own libations aboard, bummer. So if you're on a budget watch those drinks, even sodas can pad the bill. Also keep alert for other hidden costs, like sometimes ice cream sundaes served on deck aren't free. The Internet will often add extra to your tab as will any ship to shore phone calls which can actually be exorbitant. Best bet is to use your cell phone in port but check with your provider to make sure you want be charged for "roaming". I made a cell call from Mexico that cost me well over $100 for a couple of minutes.
Disembarkation day blues. The worst part of a cruise is the last morning when all Hell breaks lose as passengers frantically attempt to jump ship to catch planes, trains and rides to where ever they are moving onto. Long lines, lots of waiting, sometimes chaos prevails. Just so you know. Some lines have attempted to ease the pain, but it's rarely pleasant. One tip is if you can disembark a day or two earlier and avoid the pain. We've done this on long voyages and were able to stay in our stateroom or suite all day until the time to head to the airport. It really turns that frown upside down.
Packing: Most of us stuff way to much in our luggage. Plan your day time wardrobe much as you would at home. You probably don't change clothes every day and believe me you'll settle into a couple of outfits and wear them the entire cruise. Of course evening wear will require a little more thought. Be creative, mix different tops with the same bottoms, put a shawl over a dress to change itsappearance. Pack light especially if you flying to and fro.
Any more questions? Leave a comment or email me at ppietschma@aol.com and I'll try to help.
Now get out and book a cruise. It's still cheaper than a land vacation and offers the opportunity to see more of the world with less hassle. And you really only need to pack and unpack twice.
News from Holland American: new Shore Excursion e-Brochure online system allows pax to view and print shore excursion information for booked cruises. You'll find up-to-the minute, personalized information specific to your itinerary 24/7..
"We strive to personalize each guest’s experience and to endeavor to make their interaction with us as easy and enriching aspossible,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “By giving our guests the flexibility of printing an e-brochure with their shore excursion options that is tailored specifically to their cruise itinerary, we are able to present the exact information they need—when they need it. Additionally, more and more of our guests applaud our online efforts from an environmental standpoint.”
How it works. Pax log on to: (www.hollandamerica.com), input booking number and last name, click on the “View Your Personalized Shore Excursion Brochure” link and a personalized e-brochure will immediately download. The Shore Excursion e-Brochure will present the guest’s name and all available shore excursions for the guest’s booked cruise. Guests have the option of continuing their shore excursion viewing online, printing their personalized Shore Excursion e-Brochure for review at a later date or booking their tours immediately. Additionally, guests may review their personalized Shore Excursion e-Brochure from six months to a year before their cruise departure date rather than waiting for a hard-copy version that accompanies guests’ cruise documents 30 – 60 days from their cruise departure date. In the five weeks since the Shore Excursion e-Brochure online system has gone live, 20,470 guests have downloaded an e-brochure.“ For more information on cruises and shore excursion. Info: 1-877-724-5425 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
Passengers of Princess Cruises and Silversea Cruises can also book shore excursions on line at both line's web sites www.princess.com; www.silversea.com.
The Suite Life Aboard Silversea Cruises' Silver Whisper
I squealed with glee as the steward let us into our Grand suite—a 1,434 square foot concert of marble and mahogany mini mansion—which would be our floating home onboard Silversea Cruises’ Silver Whisper for 33 glorious days on a voyage from Los Angeles to Sydney. I’d been in shipboard suites before, but this went outside the box. The bedroom was huge with an exquisite vanity and a king size bed covered in fine linen with Piumi Salpi down pillows and comforters. I couldn’t get over all the storage space, and the walk-in closet large enough for two steamer trunks and more. The Italian marble bathroom dazzled with a Jacuzzi tub, twin sinks, and separate shower. Lavish soaps, shampoos, conditioners and toiletries lined the glass shelves. Thick Frette terry robes hang on the door.
The living room was so inviting we eased into a nightly routine sprawled out on the comfy sofa or recliner room watching movies on the Flat screen plasma television, or listening to CDs playing on the Bang & Olufsen or Nakamichi entertainment center. While we love the dining venues on the ship, the suite proved so comfortable that we opted to for room service about half the nights of the cruise. The waiters set our mahogany dining table elegantly with candles, Christofle silverware and Bernardeau Limoges china. We dined on truffles from Rome, foie gras from France, Italian-style pasta, filet mignon, and luscious desserts like Viennese tortes.
A beautiful wood bar, stocked with Schott-Zwiesel crystal, and complimentary beverages (Philipponnat Royale Reserve champagne, wines, liquor and soft drinks) proved perfect for entertaining new friends we made during the voyage. Our steward always ensured sure we had plenty of hors d’oeuvres for our soirees.
The suite sports a large private teak balcony where we ate breakfast by day and sat sipping champagne at night.
We did manage to wrest ourselves from our suite to work out in the nicely equipped gym, take free Pilates and exercise classes, and swim in the 30 feet by 12 feet lap pool. We also got out to explore the ports of call.
For additional information call: 800-722-9055, fax in the U.S. to 954-522-4499, or visit the website at: www.silverseacruises.com
Friday, September 12, 2008
Princess Cruises Sponsors Couples' Giveaway
USA TODAY and Princess Cruises joined hands in a special contest called “Romance on the Ruby” offering 10 lucky couples a chance to attend the naming festivities for the cruise line's newest ship, Ruby Princess, November 6-8, 2008, in Ft. Lauderdale, For the launch of Ruby Princess, Princess Cruises is celebrating romantic moments and milestones. In honor, celebrity couple Trista and Ryan Sutter will christen the ship. The Sutters, who met on ABC’s hit reality series, The Bachelorette, will celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary this fall, and will mark this milestone event during the Ruby Princess inaugural.
Entry Rules:
To enter, couples must submit a 250-word essay by October 3 on what their romantic milestone is and why they deserve a getaway to celebrate. Princess Cruises’ Department of Romance members will judge the entries and choose 10 finalists who will receive an all-expense-paid trip with their significant other to the inaugural and two-night sailing on the Ruby Princess. Finalists will be announced on October 17 at romanceontheruby.usatoday.com as well as USA TODAY's online site devoted to cruising, The Cruise Log (cruises.usatoday.com). Trista and Ryan Sutter will then select a grand prize winner out of the 10 finalists who will be named on October 24. The winner and their significant other will win a seven-day sailing on the new Ruby Princess plus coach airfare. For full official rules and to submit your essay, visit romanceontheruby.usatoday.com.<
The Ruby Princess’ inaugural season includes seven-day weekly sailings from Fort Lauderdale, FL to the Western Caribbean. Calls include Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico and Princess Cays in the Bahamas. Next spring the ship will move to Europe for 12-day sailings in the Mediterranean and Greek Islands. For more information about Princess Cruises check with a travel agent, call:
1-800-PRINCESS, or go to: www.princess.com.
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