Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is giving passengers the opportunity to offset CO2 emissions from cruise travel, in cooperation with the climate protection organization atmosfair. The non-profit organization, under the direction of Klaus Toepfer, has developed a climate calculator for cruises. Hapag-Lloyd will assume 25 percent of the voluntary climate protection contribution for their passengers.
Starting in 2011, Hapag-Lloyd passengers can donate a voluntary financial contribution to aid a climate protection project. The cruise operator will cover 25 percent of the cost, based on the climate calculator for each cruise. Hapag-Lloyd has chosen to have the money collected support atmosfair’s project to supply electricity by means of solar lamps in India.
Using a climate calculator at www.hl-cruises.com/climate-calculator , passengers can ascertain their respective climate protection contribution in advance, and decide whether they would like to contribute 75 percent of this cost. The atmosfair calculation method has been approved by Germany’s Federal Ministry for the Environment. Contributions vary depending on the CO2 emissions and thus on the duration of the cruise, as well as the booked category. The full donation amount is passed on directly to atmosfair, who will then use the proceeds in climate protection projects financing renewable energies for households in India. For more information, visit www.atmosfair.de or www.hl-cruises.com.
From "Travel Pulse"
Sunday, October 17, 2010
CLIA Releases New Environmental Report "Charting a Sustainable Course"
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) today released two new resources, an environmental report and complementary video, on the occasion of CLIA’s 35th anniversary this year. The new report, ‘CLIA at 35: Steering a Sustainable Course,’ depicts the evolution of the modern cruise industry as it continues its efforts toward conservation and the minimization of the industry’s impact on the environment in the years since CLIA’s founding in 1975.
“From ocean liners of decades past to the cruise ship of today, passenger vessels have always had a simple appeal: enjoy the clean open air and sea breeze while traveling to a special destination. The Cruise Lines International Association and its members are deeply committed to ensuring this picture does not change,” said Terry Dale, CLIA President and CEO.
“Our work is fundamentally inspired by the beauty of the sea,” said Howard Frank, Chairman of CLIA and Chief Operating Officer of Carnival Corporation & plc. “Our industry has invested millions of dollars in research and technology to ensure we are steering a sustainable course as we look ahead to our next 35 years and beyond. It’s important that we respect this setting, and do our best to keep the environment in the pristine condition in which we find it.”
The report is available to download from CruiseIndustryFacts.com along with the video. The video was produced in partnership with the North West and Canada Cruise Association. These materials cover:
Waste Management: The management of wastewater is a complex and important element of cruise ship operations. Blackwater (water from toilets and medical facility drains) and graywater (water from cabin sinks and showers, laundry, galleys and spas) discharges are highly regulated. Our industry also adopted its own set of stringent wastewater best practices that go beyond regulatory requirements. In addition, CLIA ships have adopted rigorous programs to minimize their environmental footprint, tackle waste disposal, and reduce the potential waste coming on board ships and to recycle as much waste as possible.
Regulations: As a global industry, cruise ships are highly regulated at the international level by flag State (where ships are registered), and port State (where our ships visit). CLIA members not only meet these standards, but in many ways exceed them.
Emissions Reduction: CLIA members have been systematically reducing air emissions as more fuel efficient ships have come into service and additional regulations come into effect. To achieve these reductions, the cruise industry has been investing in new technologies that manage the use of energy more effectively, such as testing shipboard exhaust gas scrubbers, developing engines that run more efficiently, and the use of shore power technology.
Energy Consumption and Reduction: Other innovations help cruise ships conserve energy, including eco-friendly hull coatings, new hull designs that reduce resistance, waste heat recovery, and innovative air conditioning systems that minimize the amount of energy used to heat and cool the ship. In addition, some cruise ships are utilizing solar panels.
Partnerships: CLIA turned to Conservation International in 2003 to serve as an environmental advisor, and through the resulting partnership, our members have been able to further minimize the cruise industry’s environmental footprint, and further understand ways in which we can minimize our impact on our environment.
“2010 marks the 35th anniversary of CLIA, and we produced these new materials to better share our decades of progress with the public,” Dale continued. “Our practices and procedures, combined with innovative new technologies, have allowed our industry to make significant strides beyond regulatory compliance to minimize the impact cruising has on the environment. Our industry recognizes our responsibility to protect the environment, because it is upon our beautiful oceans that we sail.”
From "Cruise Industry News"
“From ocean liners of decades past to the cruise ship of today, passenger vessels have always had a simple appeal: enjoy the clean open air and sea breeze while traveling to a special destination. The Cruise Lines International Association and its members are deeply committed to ensuring this picture does not change,” said Terry Dale, CLIA President and CEO.
“Our work is fundamentally inspired by the beauty of the sea,” said Howard Frank, Chairman of CLIA and Chief Operating Officer of Carnival Corporation & plc. “Our industry has invested millions of dollars in research and technology to ensure we are steering a sustainable course as we look ahead to our next 35 years and beyond. It’s important that we respect this setting, and do our best to keep the environment in the pristine condition in which we find it.”
The report is available to download from CruiseIndustryFacts.com along with the video. The video was produced in partnership with the North West and Canada Cruise Association. These materials cover:
Waste Management: The management of wastewater is a complex and important element of cruise ship operations. Blackwater (water from toilets and medical facility drains) and graywater (water from cabin sinks and showers, laundry, galleys and spas) discharges are highly regulated. Our industry also adopted its own set of stringent wastewater best practices that go beyond regulatory requirements. In addition, CLIA ships have adopted rigorous programs to minimize their environmental footprint, tackle waste disposal, and reduce the potential waste coming on board ships and to recycle as much waste as possible.
Regulations: As a global industry, cruise ships are highly regulated at the international level by flag State (where ships are registered), and port State (where our ships visit). CLIA members not only meet these standards, but in many ways exceed them.
Emissions Reduction: CLIA members have been systematically reducing air emissions as more fuel efficient ships have come into service and additional regulations come into effect. To achieve these reductions, the cruise industry has been investing in new technologies that manage the use of energy more effectively, such as testing shipboard exhaust gas scrubbers, developing engines that run more efficiently, and the use of shore power technology.
Energy Consumption and Reduction: Other innovations help cruise ships conserve energy, including eco-friendly hull coatings, new hull designs that reduce resistance, waste heat recovery, and innovative air conditioning systems that minimize the amount of energy used to heat and cool the ship. In addition, some cruise ships are utilizing solar panels.
Partnerships: CLIA turned to Conservation International in 2003 to serve as an environmental advisor, and through the resulting partnership, our members have been able to further minimize the cruise industry’s environmental footprint, and further understand ways in which we can minimize our impact on our environment.
“2010 marks the 35th anniversary of CLIA, and we produced these new materials to better share our decades of progress with the public,” Dale continued. “Our practices and procedures, combined with innovative new technologies, have allowed our industry to make significant strides beyond regulatory compliance to minimize the impact cruising has on the environment. Our industry recognizes our responsibility to protect the environment, because it is upon our beautiful oceans that we sail.”
From "Cruise Industry News"
Sunday, October 10, 2010
UNWTO Sets Recommendations on Tourism and Biodiversity Ahead of World Tourism Day
Defining the critical role of the tourism sector in protecting biodiversity and setting out clear recommendations on how to maximize this contribution is the aim of two new UNWTO reports. These recommendations come ahead of World Tourism Day 2010, (WTD), celebrated on 27 September under the theme ‘Tourism and Biodiversity’.
Tourism and Biodiversity: Achieving Goals towards Sustainability, underlines the relationship between sustainable tourism and biodiversity, and assesses how tourism can contribute to achieve the international targets for the protection of biodiversity, including the Convention on Biological Diversity’s (CBD) 2010 and post-2010 biodiversity goals. The report also considers the implications for tourism of the recommendations from The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study, part of the United Nation’s Green Economy Initiative.
The UNWTO report sets out ten recommendations for governments, international organizations, the tourism sector and NGOs on integrating biodiversity conservation in tourism development. Key among these are implementing best practices for avoiding and minimizing negative impacts of tourism on biodiversity; applying the CBD Guidelines on Biodiversity and Tourism Development and the findings of TEEB to the sustainable management and development of tourism; and promoting investment in ecological infrastructure.
The Practical Guide for the Development of Biodiversity-Based Tourism Products offers practical guidelines to local tour operators and product developers on how to develop sustainable biodiversity-based tourism products. Practical recommendations, including attending training programmes and monitoring the capacity of natural areas in order not to damage habitats and species, will help tourism stakeholders to not only position themselves competitively in international markets, but to also maximize tourism’s benefits for local communities, while maintaining local biodiversity.
The two reports will be presented in Guangzhou, China, host of World Tourism Day 2010, and set the scene for the High Level Dialogue on Tourism, Biodiversity and Sustainable Development which marks the World Tourism Day official celebrations.
In a special message on the occasion of World Tourism Day, UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, has commended the tourism community for its “growing recognition of the importance of conserving the diversity of life on Earth” and further highlights how the sector can contribute to protecting biodiversity through “integrating simple measures such as managing tour groups to minimize disturbance to wildlife or buying supplies only from sustainable sources”. The full message can be viewed at: http://www.unwto.org/worldtourismday/about/about.php?lang=E&op=7
From "Cruise Industry News"
Tourism and Biodiversity: Achieving Goals towards Sustainability, underlines the relationship between sustainable tourism and biodiversity, and assesses how tourism can contribute to achieve the international targets for the protection of biodiversity, including the Convention on Biological Diversity’s (CBD) 2010 and post-2010 biodiversity goals. The report also considers the implications for tourism of the recommendations from The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study, part of the United Nation’s Green Economy Initiative.
The UNWTO report sets out ten recommendations for governments, international organizations, the tourism sector and NGOs on integrating biodiversity conservation in tourism development. Key among these are implementing best practices for avoiding and minimizing negative impacts of tourism on biodiversity; applying the CBD Guidelines on Biodiversity and Tourism Development and the findings of TEEB to the sustainable management and development of tourism; and promoting investment in ecological infrastructure.
The Practical Guide for the Development of Biodiversity-Based Tourism Products offers practical guidelines to local tour operators and product developers on how to develop sustainable biodiversity-based tourism products. Practical recommendations, including attending training programmes and monitoring the capacity of natural areas in order not to damage habitats and species, will help tourism stakeholders to not only position themselves competitively in international markets, but to also maximize tourism’s benefits for local communities, while maintaining local biodiversity.
The two reports will be presented in Guangzhou, China, host of World Tourism Day 2010, and set the scene for the High Level Dialogue on Tourism, Biodiversity and Sustainable Development which marks the World Tourism Day official celebrations.
In a special message on the occasion of World Tourism Day, UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, has commended the tourism community for its “growing recognition of the importance of conserving the diversity of life on Earth” and further highlights how the sector can contribute to protecting biodiversity through “integrating simple measures such as managing tour groups to minimize disturbance to wildlife or buying supplies only from sustainable sources”. The full message can be viewed at: http://www.unwto.org/worldtourismday/about/about.php?lang=E&op=7
From "Cruise Industry News"
Sunday, October 3, 2010
CLIA Names Bud Darr Director of Environmental and Health Programs
Charles (Bud) Darr, formerly of the U.S. Coast Guard, has been named Director of Environmental and Health Programs for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). He will be responsible for all aspects of the cruise industry’s environmental and health matters including chairing CLIA’s environmental and medical Committees and serving as industry liaison to various international organizations.
“Environmental concerns and health issues are two top priorities for the cruise industry. We are delighted to welcome Bud Darr, who has already distinguished himself across a broad range of related activities, to the CLIA team and we look forward to his leadership in these areas,” said Terry L. Dale, CLIA’s president and CEO.
Prior to joining CLIA, Darr served as Deputy Chief of the Coast Guard Office of Maritime and International Law, where his responsibilities included international law development and implementation, vessel inspections, environmental crimes, environmental response, casualty investigations, mariner welfare, drug interdiction, migrant interdiction, fisheries enforcement, and port/vessel security matters.
He joined the Coast Guard in 1993 after graduating cum laude from the United States Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marine Transportation and a license as a deck officer. He was first assigned to Marine Inspection Office New York. During his tour in New York, he served as a marine inspector and the Chief of the Port State Control Branch. In 1995, he transferred to Activities/Marine Inspection Office Europe in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. He also served as a marine inspector and investigating officer throughout Africa, Europe, and Southwest Asia.
In 1998, Darr was selected for the Coast Guard’s Law Advanced Education Program and sent to The George Washington University Law School, where he graduated with high honors in 2001. He has served on United States delegations to the International Maritime Organization at the Assembly, Committee, Sub-Committee, and Working Group levels. In this capacity he has served as delegation head and as chairman of numerous working, drafting, and consultative groups. He served as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee for the Diplomatic Conference that adopted the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, 2009.
Darr also was a key advisor for the Coast Guard and United States Government on a wide range of counter piracy topics and has served on and supported the United States delegations to the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia and its four Working Groups. He is a frequent international speaker on a wide range of maritime safety and environmental protection issues. He has been selected as a faculty member for many training forums, including the Department of Justice National Advocacy Center.
Prior to attending Kings Point and joining the Coast Guard, Darr was an enlisted submarine nuclear propulsion supervisor in the US Navy. He joined the Navy in 1983 and served on board the USS Baton Rouge (SSN 689) and as an instructor at Naval Nuclear Propulsion Training Unit Ballston Spa, New York.
Darr is licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Most recently, he was selected as the Federal Bar Association’s 2009 Transportation Security Lawyer of the Year.
From "Cruise Industry News"
“Environmental concerns and health issues are two top priorities for the cruise industry. We are delighted to welcome Bud Darr, who has already distinguished himself across a broad range of related activities, to the CLIA team and we look forward to his leadership in these areas,” said Terry L. Dale, CLIA’s president and CEO.
Prior to joining CLIA, Darr served as Deputy Chief of the Coast Guard Office of Maritime and International Law, where his responsibilities included international law development and implementation, vessel inspections, environmental crimes, environmental response, casualty investigations, mariner welfare, drug interdiction, migrant interdiction, fisheries enforcement, and port/vessel security matters.
He joined the Coast Guard in 1993 after graduating cum laude from the United States Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marine Transportation and a license as a deck officer. He was first assigned to Marine Inspection Office New York. During his tour in New York, he served as a marine inspector and the Chief of the Port State Control Branch. In 1995, he transferred to Activities/Marine Inspection Office Europe in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. He also served as a marine inspector and investigating officer throughout Africa, Europe, and Southwest Asia.
In 1998, Darr was selected for the Coast Guard’s Law Advanced Education Program and sent to The George Washington University Law School, where he graduated with high honors in 2001. He has served on United States delegations to the International Maritime Organization at the Assembly, Committee, Sub-Committee, and Working Group levels. In this capacity he has served as delegation head and as chairman of numerous working, drafting, and consultative groups. He served as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee for the Diplomatic Conference that adopted the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, 2009.
Darr also was a key advisor for the Coast Guard and United States Government on a wide range of counter piracy topics and has served on and supported the United States delegations to the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia and its four Working Groups. He is a frequent international speaker on a wide range of maritime safety and environmental protection issues. He has been selected as a faculty member for many training forums, including the Department of Justice National Advocacy Center.
Prior to attending Kings Point and joining the Coast Guard, Darr was an enlisted submarine nuclear propulsion supervisor in the US Navy. He joined the Navy in 1983 and served on board the USS Baton Rouge (SSN 689) and as an instructor at Naval Nuclear Propulsion Training Unit Ballston Spa, New York.
Darr is licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Most recently, he was selected as the Federal Bar Association’s 2009 Transportation Security Lawyer of the Year.
From "Cruise Industry News"
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Crystal Adds Voluntourism to Excursion Offerings
This fall, Crystal Cruises’ guests will be given the opportunity to “give something back” while stopped at Valetta, Malta.
Passengers aboard the Crystal Serenity’s 12-day Mediterranean/Holy Land Voyage can opt to “Go Green” while in Malta and help the environment and local economy by planting trees in the island’s only national park, donating food at a local charity and learning eco-conscious planting and harvesting practices at a local organic farm.
The optional excursion is nearly eight hours long, and costs $95 per person. The experience begins with a visit to Ta’ Qali National Park, where guests will plant trees and learn about the park’s conservation efforts. Following a guided tour and lunch at Ta’ Zeppi Organic Farm, guests will visit a local orphan refuge where they will donate food and interact with the children.
“This excursion affords guests the opportunity to contribute to the local needs in Valetta, and also gain a better understanding of the environmental efforts of the destination,” said John Stoll, vice president, land and port operations. “Like so many Crystal Adventures, this experience offers a new point of view for guests who want to explore destinations from a deeper, more informed perspective.”
The Valetta excursion is a prelude to a larger program, called “You Care, We Care,” debuting in 2011, a spokesperson for Crystal Cruises told Travel Market Report at a recent CLIA luxury and river cruising event.
As part of the larger program, in 2011 Crystal will offer one complimentary voluntourism shore excursion on every itinerary. Guests with an altruistic bent will be able to pay it forward in destinations like Peru, South Africa, Ecuador, and Mexico among others. At least 20 excursions will be made available throughout the course of the year.
“There’s been a level of interest from our guests on how they can help,” the spokesperson said, adding that agents have also informed Crystal their clients are inquiring about voluntourism.
Agents will be able to sign their clients up for the excursion before hand. Group sizes will be limited.
From the “Travel Market Report”
Passengers aboard the Crystal Serenity’s 12-day Mediterranean/Holy Land Voyage can opt to “Go Green” while in Malta and help the environment and local economy by planting trees in the island’s only national park, donating food at a local charity and learning eco-conscious planting and harvesting practices at a local organic farm.
The optional excursion is nearly eight hours long, and costs $95 per person. The experience begins with a visit to Ta’ Qali National Park, where guests will plant trees and learn about the park’s conservation efforts. Following a guided tour and lunch at Ta’ Zeppi Organic Farm, guests will visit a local orphan refuge where they will donate food and interact with the children.
“This excursion affords guests the opportunity to contribute to the local needs in Valetta, and also gain a better understanding of the environmental efforts of the destination,” said John Stoll, vice president, land and port operations. “Like so many Crystal Adventures, this experience offers a new point of view for guests who want to explore destinations from a deeper, more informed perspective.”
The Valetta excursion is a prelude to a larger program, called “You Care, We Care,” debuting in 2011, a spokesperson for Crystal Cruises told Travel Market Report at a recent CLIA luxury and river cruising event.
As part of the larger program, in 2011 Crystal will offer one complimentary voluntourism shore excursion on every itinerary. Guests with an altruistic bent will be able to pay it forward in destinations like Peru, South Africa, Ecuador, and Mexico among others. At least 20 excursions will be made available throughout the course of the year.
“There’s been a level of interest from our guests on how they can help,” the spokesperson said, adding that agents have also informed Crystal their clients are inquiring about voluntourism.
Agents will be able to sign their clients up for the excursion before hand. Group sizes will be limited.
From the “Travel Market Report”
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Releases 2009 Environmental and Safety Report
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has made available its second annual Stewardship Report, which highlights the company’s safety, security, medical/public health and environmental efforts. The 2009 Stewardship Report provides insight into Royal Caribbean’s strategy in the areas of energy and air emissions, water and wastewater, waste and chemical management, community involvement and conservation, destinations and education. The report also reviews how the Above and Beyond Compliance philosophy, which guides the company’s environmental stewardship program, also influences all areas of the company, including safety and security, as well as medical and public health.
“Our goal with the 2009 Stewardship Report was to build upon last year’s inaugural report by enhancing its environmental stewardship content and significantly augmenting the safety, security and medical/public health information,” said Gary Bald, senior vice president of safety, security, environment and medical/public health for RCCL. “Within the report, readers can learn about our emphasis on incident prevention, increasing focus on destination stewardship and conservation, partnerships with medical centers of excellence around the world and our newest safety innovations and progressive security measures.
”Some of the highlights of the report include an overview of the company’s 40-year hi story of environmental activities, which was formalized with the creation of the Save The Waves program. Since its beginnings in 1992, the Save The Waves program has evolved from a program focused on reducing, reusing and recycling waste, to a companywide philosophy that is integrated into the daily operations onboard all our ships. This includes environmental officers onboard each ship, a waste-management program that completely addresses each waste stream, environmental training for every crew member and land-based employee, and the creation of the Environmental Stewardship department. For more information, visit http://www.rclinvestor.com/.
“Our goal with the 2009 Stewardship Report was to build upon last year’s inaugural report by enhancing its environmental stewardship content and significantly augmenting the safety, security and medical/public health information,” said Gary Bald, senior vice president of safety, security, environment and medical/public health for RCCL. “Within the report, readers can learn about our emphasis on incident prevention, increasing focus on destination stewardship and conservation, partnerships with medical centers of excellence around the world and our newest safety innovations and progressive security measures.
”Some of the highlights of the report include an overview of the company’s 40-year hi story of environmental activities, which was formalized with the creation of the Save The Waves program. Since its beginnings in 1992, the Save The Waves program has evolved from a program focused on reducing, reusing and recycling waste, to a companywide philosophy that is integrated into the daily operations onboard all our ships. This includes environmental officers onboard each ship, a waste-management program that completely addresses each waste stream, environmental training for every crew member and land-based employee, and the creation of the Environmental Stewardship department. For more information, visit http://www.rclinvestor.com/.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
CLIA Statement on Proposed EPA Rule to Establish a No Discharge Zone in California
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) released the following statement regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rule to establish a No Discharge Zone covering all California coastal waters. The rule would apply to all cruise ships and to large ocean-going vessels with adequate sewage holding capacity. Though it is intended to protect receiving waters, the rule does not cover discharges from land-based sources such as municipal wastewater treatment facilities.
“Cruise Lines International Association members follow science-based industry practices that exceed mandatory California and other applicable water discharge regulations, and therefore meet the requirements of the new, proposed EPA rule covering blackwater. The cruise industry shares EPA’s and the State Water Resources Control Board’s commitment to protect California’s coastal waters. While international regulations permit the discharge of untreated blackwater (sewage) 12 miles from shore, as a policy our member cruise lines first treat blackwater with approved technologies prior to discharge anywhere in the world.”
From "Cruise Industry News"
“Cruise Lines International Association members follow science-based industry practices that exceed mandatory California and other applicable water discharge regulations, and therefore meet the requirements of the new, proposed EPA rule covering blackwater. The cruise industry shares EPA’s and the State Water Resources Control Board’s commitment to protect California’s coastal waters. While international regulations permit the discharge of untreated blackwater (sewage) 12 miles from shore, as a policy our member cruise lines first treat blackwater with approved technologies prior to discharge anywhere in the world.”
From "Cruise Industry News"
U.S. Coast Guard Crews Change Tide of Energy Consumption
U.S. Coast Guard Sector Northern New England (SNNE) crews will partner with Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC) members to demonstrate the nation's most robust tidal energy program on, Aug. 24, 2010.
Gov. John Baldacci, Congressman Mike Michaud and Capt. James McPherson, SNNE’s commander, will unite at Coast Guard Station Eastport to celebrate the first-ever successful implementation of tidal energy at a federal facility.
Massive tidal ranges in the ocean waters surrounding Eastport represent some of the largest in the country, rising and falling over 20 feet. The Coast Guard’s Research and Development Center (RDC), located in New London, Conn., and SNNE collaborated with Ocean Renewable Power Company to commission the first ever use of a tidal energy generator.
The 60 kW tidal turbine was launched in March for testing and is the largest ocean tidal energy generator in the United States. The turbine generator unit (TGU) is set in a steel-composite frame and is deployed from one of ORPC’s research vessels, the Energy Tide 2, in Cobscook Bay. The unit utilizes advanced design cross-flow turbines to drive the generator and the electricity produced will charge a set of battery modules housed in the Energy Tide 2.
The generator was recently re-deployed following several upgrades and began providing clean, grid-compatible electricity to Coast Guard Station Eastport’s 41-foot Utility Boat on Aug. 18, 2010. The TGU will also be involved in a concurrent project to test an active acoustic monitoring system that identifies marine life and debris in the vicinity of the turbine.
“The tidal generator is a pioneering concept in the field of renewable energy,” said McPherson. “The fact that this prototype is successfully producing power gives us the sense that this project has unlimited potential for not only Coast Guard facilities, but for the United States.”
From "Cruise Industry News"
Gov. John Baldacci, Congressman Mike Michaud and Capt. James McPherson, SNNE’s commander, will unite at Coast Guard Station Eastport to celebrate the first-ever successful implementation of tidal energy at a federal facility.
Massive tidal ranges in the ocean waters surrounding Eastport represent some of the largest in the country, rising and falling over 20 feet. The Coast Guard’s Research and Development Center (RDC), located in New London, Conn., and SNNE collaborated with Ocean Renewable Power Company to commission the first ever use of a tidal energy generator.
The 60 kW tidal turbine was launched in March for testing and is the largest ocean tidal energy generator in the United States. The turbine generator unit (TGU) is set in a steel-composite frame and is deployed from one of ORPC’s research vessels, the Energy Tide 2, in Cobscook Bay. The unit utilizes advanced design cross-flow turbines to drive the generator and the electricity produced will charge a set of battery modules housed in the Energy Tide 2.
The generator was recently re-deployed following several upgrades and began providing clean, grid-compatible electricity to Coast Guard Station Eastport’s 41-foot Utility Boat on Aug. 18, 2010. The TGU will also be involved in a concurrent project to test an active acoustic monitoring system that identifies marine life and debris in the vicinity of the turbine.
“The tidal generator is a pioneering concept in the field of renewable energy,” said McPherson. “The fact that this prototype is successfully producing power gives us the sense that this project has unlimited potential for not only Coast Guard facilities, but for the United States.”
From "Cruise Industry News"
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Environmentalists: Cruise ships using British Columbia waters as 'toilet bowl'
The following appeared in USA Today:
Are cruise ships sailing to and from Alaska dumping an inordinate amount of their waste in the waters off Canada?
That's the charge today from Canadian environmentalists quoted in the Vancouver Sun who say cruise lines are avoiding stringent U.S. regulations on the dumping of sewage and "gray water" (from showers and sinks) by discharging it off the coast of British Columbia. "Cruise ship companies are taking advantage of Canada's weaker laws on sewage discharge to save money," Friends of the Earth Canada chief executive Beatrice Olivastri tells the news outlet. "It is bizarre that B.C. residents should bear the burden of cruise ship pollution from well-heeled tourists."
The story quotes one longtime cruise industry critic based in Canada, Ross Klein, as saying British Columbia is now "the toilet bowl of the West Coast of North America." A Canadian government official notes sewage from ships must be treated before being discharged off the country's coast.
About two dozen large cruise ships operated by Princess Cruises, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and several other major lines pass through British Columbia waters weekly during the summer on their way to and from Alaska from Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.
As usual, there's always another side to the story. I've included a couple of posts from commentors on the USA Today piece. First from "OnAnIsland":
"If all the sewage from all 24 ships was dumped raw, it would not compare to the effluent in the Fraser river which discharges its waste through Vancouver BC. Environmental restrictions in this part of Canada are very lax due to the profit from the pulp and ore industries located upstream. At the confluence with the Thompson River, the water from the Fraser will start eating you alive and has been credited with deformations of many of the Salmon that spawn further upstream. As a guide on the Thompson, I will not even let my passengers step into any water polluted by the Fraser. Vancouver has been living with this for decades so the 12 or so cruise ships that do dock in Vancouver (the rest dock in Seattle and use American waters for most of their trip) should not have much to complain about."
And finally from "Captain Rick":
"The Canadians are dummies. If they have a problem with water dumping, then tighten up their laws. Easy. Also, if they don't want the sewage, then ban the ships from coming into their ports. Let their local merchants scream that their provincial government is screwing them. Effluent from a ship comes out cleaner then from municipal treatments plants. In the long run, it's the Canadians' fault for falling in with the British during and after the American Revolution. We gave them a chance but they blew it."
You can't make this stuff up!
Are cruise ships sailing to and from Alaska dumping an inordinate amount of their waste in the waters off Canada?
That's the charge today from Canadian environmentalists quoted in the Vancouver Sun who say cruise lines are avoiding stringent U.S. regulations on the dumping of sewage and "gray water" (from showers and sinks) by discharging it off the coast of British Columbia. "Cruise ship companies are taking advantage of Canada's weaker laws on sewage discharge to save money," Friends of the Earth Canada chief executive Beatrice Olivastri tells the news outlet. "It is bizarre that B.C. residents should bear the burden of cruise ship pollution from well-heeled tourists."
The story quotes one longtime cruise industry critic based in Canada, Ross Klein, as saying British Columbia is now "the toilet bowl of the West Coast of North America." A Canadian government official notes sewage from ships must be treated before being discharged off the country's coast.
About two dozen large cruise ships operated by Princess Cruises, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and several other major lines pass through British Columbia waters weekly during the summer on their way to and from Alaska from Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.
As usual, there's always another side to the story. I've included a couple of posts from commentors on the USA Today piece. First from "OnAnIsland":
"If all the sewage from all 24 ships was dumped raw, it would not compare to the effluent in the Fraser river which discharges its waste through Vancouver BC. Environmental restrictions in this part of Canada are very lax due to the profit from the pulp and ore industries located upstream. At the confluence with the Thompson River, the water from the Fraser will start eating you alive and has been credited with deformations of many of the Salmon that spawn further upstream. As a guide on the Thompson, I will not even let my passengers step into any water polluted by the Fraser. Vancouver has been living with this for decades so the 12 or so cruise ships that do dock in Vancouver (the rest dock in Seattle and use American waters for most of their trip) should not have much to complain about."
And finally from "Captain Rick":
"The Canadians are dummies. If they have a problem with water dumping, then tighten up their laws. Easy. Also, if they don't want the sewage, then ban the ships from coming into their ports. Let their local merchants scream that their provincial government is screwing them. Effluent from a ship comes out cleaner then from municipal treatments plants. In the long run, it's the Canadians' fault for falling in with the British during and after the American Revolution. We gave them a chance but they blew it."
You can't make this stuff up!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Cruises Inc. & CruiseOne Receive Top Honors From Crystal Cruises
Cruises Inc. & CruiseOne, the nation's leading cruise travel retail network, was recently honored as top luxury travel specialists at Crystal Cruises’ 20th annual Sales Achievement Gala aboard Crystal Symphony.
"We greatly value our relationship with Crystal Cruises, and are privileged to accept this recognition as top travel professionals,” said Dwain Wall, Senior Vice President and General Manager of CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. “This award belongs to all of our franchise owners and agents, and we congratulate them on this achievement."
Hosted by Crystal Cruises’ senior management, the gala provided a forum for the latest product updates and educational seminars, as well as exclusive parties honoring the award-winners. Only 75 qualifying worldwide travel agencies were recognized for their expertise selling luxury cruises.
“We are proud to honor the awarded agents and our worldwide representatives for their continual support in recommending their clients to Crystal Cruises,” says Gregg L. Michel, President of Crystal. “We know their customers appreciate it as well because they consistently rank Crystal among the finest luxury experiences on land and sea.”
6 July 2010 - "Cruise Industry News"
"We greatly value our relationship with Crystal Cruises, and are privileged to accept this recognition as top travel professionals,” said Dwain Wall, Senior Vice President and General Manager of CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. “This award belongs to all of our franchise owners and agents, and we congratulate them on this achievement."
Hosted by Crystal Cruises’ senior management, the gala provided a forum for the latest product updates and educational seminars, as well as exclusive parties honoring the award-winners. Only 75 qualifying worldwide travel agencies were recognized for their expertise selling luxury cruises.
“We are proud to honor the awarded agents and our worldwide representatives for their continual support in recommending their clients to Crystal Cruises,” says Gregg L. Michel, President of Crystal. “We know their customers appreciate it as well because they consistently rank Crystal among the finest luxury experiences on land and sea.”
6 July 2010 - "Cruise Industry News"
Sunday, May 23, 2010
WOW Produced Record Sales
World Travel Holdings (WTH) has reported that May 19 was its best selling day ever, driven by Royal Caribbean’s WOW sale. WTH brands include CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. which both had record-breaking days.
"Cruise Industry News", 21 May 2010
"Cruise Industry News", 21 May 2010
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Holland America Selected as Marine Environmental Business of the Year
In recognition of its measurable efforts to reduce its environmental footprint both at sea and in port, Holland America Line has been selected as the 2010 Marine Environmental Business of the Year by the Port of Seattle and the Seattle Propeller Club.
"We applaud and congratulate Holland America Line in winning the 2010 Marine Environmental Business of the Year Award," said Port of Seattle CEO Tay Yoshitani. "Their efforts at using shore power while at berth in Seattle contribute greatly to our Puget Sound Clean Air Strategy and help make Northwest ports the Green Gateway."
Noting the company's detailed ISO 14001 Environmental Management System (EMS) plan that governs its fleet-wide efforts, the Port praised Holland America Line for its energetic efforts to reduce its impact on the port and the surrounding community through efficient energy management strategies and responsible management of wastewater discharges.
"We are honored to receive this award and thank the Port of Seattle for recognizing our efforts in environmental stewardship," said Stein Kruse, president and chief executive officer. "Being selected for this award is a testament to our ongoing commitment to preserving the environment both locally and around the world."
Reducing Fuel Consumption and Emissions
In the last three years Holland America Line challenged its ships to operate at 98 percent of their fuel budget, and in each of those years the ships consumed 96 percent of their fuel budget. Ships based in Seattle during the Alaska cruise season from May through September eliminate diesel engine emissions through a combination of fuel conservation and shore power usage.
Other successful fuel reduction strategies include selecting itineraries that allow optimum vessel speed between port calls to minimize fuel use and maintaining equipment according to specifications.
The company also shares best practices and monthly fuel-use data to encourage competition between vessels to become more efficient.
A Decade-long Partnership
Holland America Line ships have been calling at the port of Seattle since the early 1970s. In May 2002, Holland America Line began basing ships in Seattle for Alaska cruises and began its partnership with the Port to increase tourism into the region. Over the last seven years, its operations have generated more than $2.5 billion for the Seattle area alone. In 2010, the company adds another ship to sail Alaska cruises for a total of four ships based in Seattle sailing 69 cruises from May through September.
From "Cruise Industry News", 15 May 2010
"We applaud and congratulate Holland America Line in winning the 2010 Marine Environmental Business of the Year Award," said Port of Seattle CEO Tay Yoshitani. "Their efforts at using shore power while at berth in Seattle contribute greatly to our Puget Sound Clean Air Strategy and help make Northwest ports the Green Gateway."
Noting the company's detailed ISO 14001 Environmental Management System (EMS) plan that governs its fleet-wide efforts, the Port praised Holland America Line for its energetic efforts to reduce its impact on the port and the surrounding community through efficient energy management strategies and responsible management of wastewater discharges.
"We are honored to receive this award and thank the Port of Seattle for recognizing our efforts in environmental stewardship," said Stein Kruse, president and chief executive officer. "Being selected for this award is a testament to our ongoing commitment to preserving the environment both locally and around the world."
Reducing Fuel Consumption and Emissions
In the last three years Holland America Line challenged its ships to operate at 98 percent of their fuel budget, and in each of those years the ships consumed 96 percent of their fuel budget. Ships based in Seattle during the Alaska cruise season from May through September eliminate diesel engine emissions through a combination of fuel conservation and shore power usage.
Other successful fuel reduction strategies include selecting itineraries that allow optimum vessel speed between port calls to minimize fuel use and maintaining equipment according to specifications.
The company also shares best practices and monthly fuel-use data to encourage competition between vessels to become more efficient.
A Decade-long Partnership
Holland America Line ships have been calling at the port of Seattle since the early 1970s. In May 2002, Holland America Line began basing ships in Seattle for Alaska cruises and began its partnership with the Port to increase tourism into the region. Over the last seven years, its operations have generated more than $2.5 billion for the Seattle area alone. In 2010, the company adds another ship to sail Alaska cruises for a total of four ships based in Seattle sailing 69 cruises from May through September.
From "Cruise Industry News", 15 May 2010
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Holland America Partners with Marine Conservation Biology Institute
Holland America Partners with Marine Conservation Biology Institute Holland America Line and Marine Conservation Biology Institute (MCBI) announced a new partnership to promote sustainable and compatible use of the oceans to protect the world’s marine ecosystems. Called “Our Marvelous Oceans,” the new program will start with a three-year commitment that includes adopting sustainable seafood purchasing onboard, new programming for guests and support for the MCBI education program under which annual grants are made by MCBI to graduate students and young scientists in historical marine ecology.
“Our Marvelous Oceans” will embrace three elements: guest and staff education; support for marine conservation biology research; and promotion of healthy marine economic practices by identifying more sustainable choices for the premium line’s seafood menu offerings.
“Holland America Line is deeply committed to protecting the marine environment and this partnership will help our company and our guests learn more about issues facing the world’s oceans,” said Stein Kruse, president and chief executive officer. “We are very fortunate to be partnering with MCBI — an organization that is an international expert in protecting our oceans. This partnership will enable us to benefit from their team of professionals while at the same time enabling them to provide important information to our guests and crewmembers on what is required to improve the health of our oceans. We are delighted to form this mutually beneficial partnership and provide needed funding for studies as well as apply sound practices by working with MCBI to, among other items, select more sustainable seafood choices for our menus.”
“We are quite proud to be working with Holland America Line because they’re the environmental leader in the cruise industry,” said Dr. Elliott Norse, president and founder of MCBI, located in Bellevue, Wash. “We share a strong interest in healthy oceans and this is an innovative opportunity to advance the conservation message and reach a new audience – Holland America Line guests.
“We know the oceans from different points of view,” added Dr. Norse. “That’s a major reason to do this. Together we will strengthen what we can learn and do for the living oceans that everyone loves and needs.
”The educational element begins with the launch of a video program series in summer 2010 to be aired on all ships. Individual programs will introduce ocean issues and highlight important marine conservation topics that relate to the ships’ itineraries. A final program will address marine spatial planning – an ecosystem-based approach to benefit ocean life and the ocean economy that MCBI, leading marine scientists, ocean policy experts, the United States and a growing number of governments around the globe are advocating.
The “Signature of Sustainability” seafood program also begins in summer 2010 by adopting sustainable seafood purchasing practices recommended by MCBI. Kruse added, “Holland America Line wants to make sure that the seafood we serve is consistent with our programs for protecting the oceans on which we operate.”
Holland America Line will also annually fund Mia J. Tegner Memorial Research Grants. The grants, determined by MCBI and given in the areas of marine environmental history and ecology, fund several projects each fall by providing critical support for graduate students and other researchers. MCBI scientists will also conduct lectures aboard select cruises throughout the year.
From "Cruise Industry News" 23 April 2010
“Our Marvelous Oceans” will embrace three elements: guest and staff education; support for marine conservation biology research; and promotion of healthy marine economic practices by identifying more sustainable choices for the premium line’s seafood menu offerings.
“Holland America Line is deeply committed to protecting the marine environment and this partnership will help our company and our guests learn more about issues facing the world’s oceans,” said Stein Kruse, president and chief executive officer. “We are very fortunate to be partnering with MCBI — an organization that is an international expert in protecting our oceans. This partnership will enable us to benefit from their team of professionals while at the same time enabling them to provide important information to our guests and crewmembers on what is required to improve the health of our oceans. We are delighted to form this mutually beneficial partnership and provide needed funding for studies as well as apply sound practices by working with MCBI to, among other items, select more sustainable seafood choices for our menus.”
“We are quite proud to be working with Holland America Line because they’re the environmental leader in the cruise industry,” said Dr. Elliott Norse, president and founder of MCBI, located in Bellevue, Wash. “We share a strong interest in healthy oceans and this is an innovative opportunity to advance the conservation message and reach a new audience – Holland America Line guests.
“We know the oceans from different points of view,” added Dr. Norse. “That’s a major reason to do this. Together we will strengthen what we can learn and do for the living oceans that everyone loves and needs.
”The educational element begins with the launch of a video program series in summer 2010 to be aired on all ships. Individual programs will introduce ocean issues and highlight important marine conservation topics that relate to the ships’ itineraries. A final program will address marine spatial planning – an ecosystem-based approach to benefit ocean life and the ocean economy that MCBI, leading marine scientists, ocean policy experts, the United States and a growing number of governments around the globe are advocating.
The “Signature of Sustainability” seafood program also begins in summer 2010 by adopting sustainable seafood purchasing practices recommended by MCBI. Kruse added, “Holland America Line wants to make sure that the seafood we serve is consistent with our programs for protecting the oceans on which we operate.”
Holland America Line will also annually fund Mia J. Tegner Memorial Research Grants. The grants, determined by MCBI and given in the areas of marine environmental history and ecology, fund several projects each fall by providing critical support for graduate students and other researchers. MCBI scientists will also conduct lectures aboard select cruises throughout the year.
From "Cruise Industry News" 23 April 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Can't get to Europe by plane? There's always a cruise ship.
Ash from an erupting volcano in Iceland has grounded nearly every flight from the USA to the UK over the past two days, stranding thousands of travelers. But not everyone bound for the UK has seen their plans dashed by the eruption.
For some, in fact, it's been smooth sailing. Literally.
We're talking, of course, about the thousands of travelers heading to the UK today on Cunard's Queen Mary 2, which set sail late Thursday as scheduled from New York to Southampton, England. The five-year-old ocean liner, which stands alone in offering semi-regular service across the Atlantic, has been unaffected by the ash cloud.
Also unaffected are more than a dozen other North American-based cruise ships that are in the midst of setting sail on "repositioning cruises" to the UK and the rest of Europe for the summer season, carrying thousands more one-way to the region.
Norwegian Cruise Line's 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem, for instance, is midway across the Atlantic today on its way from New York to Venice. Call it a throwback to an earlier time, but passenger ships once again, however briefly, find themselves kings of the Atlantic.
Worried that continued eruptions from the volcano, Eyjafjallajokull (ay-yah-FYAH'-plah-yer-kuh-duhl), could cause continuing flight cancellations in the days and weeks ahead, derailing your upcoming travel plans (some scientists are saying the eruption could last for months)? The good news is there's still room available on some of the vessels scheduled to sail for Europe in April and May.
Among ships heading to the Continent in coming days from the USA are Silversea Cruises' Silver Spirit, which departs New York for Southampton on April 23; Princess Cruises' Star Princess, sailing from Ft. Lauderdale to Copenhagen on April 24; and the Norwegian Sun, leaving Miami for Dover, England on April 26.
Ships repositioning from the USA to Europe in early May include Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas; the Crown Princess; and Regent Seven Seas' Voyager.
4/16/2010 3:17:00 PM from USA TODAY
For some, in fact, it's been smooth sailing. Literally.
We're talking, of course, about the thousands of travelers heading to the UK today on Cunard's Queen Mary 2, which set sail late Thursday as scheduled from New York to Southampton, England. The five-year-old ocean liner, which stands alone in offering semi-regular service across the Atlantic, has been unaffected by the ash cloud.
Also unaffected are more than a dozen other North American-based cruise ships that are in the midst of setting sail on "repositioning cruises" to the UK and the rest of Europe for the summer season, carrying thousands more one-way to the region.
Norwegian Cruise Line's 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem, for instance, is midway across the Atlantic today on its way from New York to Venice. Call it a throwback to an earlier time, but passenger ships once again, however briefly, find themselves kings of the Atlantic.
Worried that continued eruptions from the volcano, Eyjafjallajokull (ay-yah-FYAH'-plah-yer-kuh-duhl), could cause continuing flight cancellations in the days and weeks ahead, derailing your upcoming travel plans (some scientists are saying the eruption could last for months)? The good news is there's still room available on some of the vessels scheduled to sail for Europe in April and May.
Among ships heading to the Continent in coming days from the USA are Silversea Cruises' Silver Spirit, which departs New York for Southampton on April 23; Princess Cruises' Star Princess, sailing from Ft. Lauderdale to Copenhagen on April 24; and the Norwegian Sun, leaving Miami for Dover, England on April 26.
Ships repositioning from the USA to Europe in early May include Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas; the Crown Princess; and Regent Seven Seas' Voyager.
4/16/2010 3:17:00 PM from USA TODAY
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Introducing The "Burned-Out EHS Professional's Leisure Travel Club"
The "Burned-Out EHS Professional's Leisure Travel Club" welcomed its first members today as Bob McCullough from Environmental Quality Management, a major environmental consulting firm out of Cincinnati, became the club's very first member.
Bob agreed to help in beta testing of the club's web site which was provided by Cruises Inc. as part of their "Member Cruises" member benefit program. The club is open to all prior and current EHS professionals and their families.
As far as we know this is the first affinity group of this profession that was created soley for the purpose of rewarding its members for their valued service. For all of you eligible EHS professionals, the URL for the site is:
www.MemberCruises.com/burned-outehsprofessionalsltc
Bob agreed to help in beta testing of the club's web site which was provided by Cruises Inc. as part of their "Member Cruises" member benefit program. The club is open to all prior and current EHS professionals and their families.
As far as we know this is the first affinity group of this profession that was created soley for the purpose of rewarding its members for their valued service. For all of you eligible EHS professionals, the URL for the site is:
www.MemberCruises.com/burned-outehsprofessionalsltc
Friday, March 26, 2010
From "Cruise Industry News"
CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. Round Out Offerings with Pre- and Post-Hotel Program
CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. today announced the launch of an exciting new pre- and post-hotel program, rounding out their offerings as an integrated travel powerhouse. The companies’ Cruise-N-Stay program allows agents to seamlessly book pre- and post-hotel stays at more than 150 port city properties around the world. While the new initiative offers agents guaranteed commissions and a new revenue stream, it simultaneously offers CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. customers aggressively negotiated hotel rates with unique added values.
“The launch of Cruise-N-Stay means that our agents can now customize practically every imaginable aspect of the dream vacation experience,” said Dwain Wall, Senior Vice President and General Manager of CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. “Now that CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. are a comprehensive vacation planning company, our agents have endless opportunities to be profitable and consumers can come to us for nearly all of their travel needs.”
As part of its initial launch, the CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. Cruise-N-Stay program includes aggressive rates in 150 port cities worldwide. More cities and hotel properties are expected to be added to the Cruise-N-Stay program on an ongoing basis. As part of the pre- and post-hotel booking process, agents will be provided with detailed property descriptions, photo galleries of each property, hotel location maps and more. The new program is fully integrated into the CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. proprietary booking engine, Cruise Control. One simple invoice displays all hotel and cruise travel details, making the process easier than ever for agents and their customers. Agents are guaranteed a minimum of 14% commission on each booking, which is paid when the booking is confirmed.
The launch of the Cruise-N-Stay program is the latest in a string of new initiatives announced by CruiseOne & Cruises Inc, including the recent rollout of a new Preferred Partner Land Travel program. Together, these innovative programs set CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. apart as leaders in vacation planning.
CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. today announced the launch of an exciting new pre- and post-hotel program, rounding out their offerings as an integrated travel powerhouse. The companies’ Cruise-N-Stay program allows agents to seamlessly book pre- and post-hotel stays at more than 150 port city properties around the world. While the new initiative offers agents guaranteed commissions and a new revenue stream, it simultaneously offers CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. customers aggressively negotiated hotel rates with unique added values.
“The launch of Cruise-N-Stay means that our agents can now customize practically every imaginable aspect of the dream vacation experience,” said Dwain Wall, Senior Vice President and General Manager of CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. “Now that CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. are a comprehensive vacation planning company, our agents have endless opportunities to be profitable and consumers can come to us for nearly all of their travel needs.”
As part of its initial launch, the CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. Cruise-N-Stay program includes aggressive rates in 150 port cities worldwide. More cities and hotel properties are expected to be added to the Cruise-N-Stay program on an ongoing basis. As part of the pre- and post-hotel booking process, agents will be provided with detailed property descriptions, photo galleries of each property, hotel location maps and more. The new program is fully integrated into the CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. proprietary booking engine, Cruise Control. One simple invoice displays all hotel and cruise travel details, making the process easier than ever for agents and their customers. Agents are guaranteed a minimum of 14% commission on each booking, which is paid when the booking is confirmed.
The launch of the Cruise-N-Stay program is the latest in a string of new initiatives announced by CruiseOne & Cruises Inc, including the recent rollout of a new Preferred Partner Land Travel program. Together, these innovative programs set CruiseOne & Cruises Inc. apart as leaders in vacation planning.
From "Cruise Industry News"
3/26/10 - IMO Adopts Proposal for Emission Control Area
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) today officially accepted the proposal to designate waters off the North American coasts as an Emission Control Area (ECA) –a move that will result in cleaner air for millions of Americans. Large ships that operate in ECAs must use dramatically cleaner fuel and technology, leading to major air quality and public health benefits that extend hundreds of miles inland. The ECA was proposed in March 2009 and the IMO adopted it in the fastest possible timetable.
“This is a change that will benefit millions of people and set in motion new innovations for the shipping industry. We’re gratified by the IMO’s decision to help keep our air clean and our communities healthy,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “The sulfur, particulate emissions and other harmful pollutants from large ships reach from our ports to communities hundreds of miles inland -- bringing with them health, environmental and economic burdens. Cleaning up our shipping lanes will be a boon to communities across North America.”
The large commercial ships that visit the nation’s ports, such as oil tankers, cruise ships and container ships, currently use fuel with very high sulfur content which, when burned, emits harmful levels of particulate matter and nitrogen oxide that can travel hundreds of miles inland, causing severe respiratory symptoms in children and adults.These ships, most flying the flags of other countries, make more than 57,000 calls at more than 100 U.S. ports annually. More than 30 of these ports are in metropolitan areas that fail to meet federal air quality standards. In total, nearly 127 million people currently live in areas that fail to meet U.S. air quality standards.
Enforcing the stringent ECA standards will reduce sulfur content in fuel by 98 percent - slashing particulate matter emissions by 85 percent, and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 80 percent. To achieve these reductions, tougher sulfur standards will phase in starting in 2012, ultimately reaching no more than 1,000 parts per million by 2015. Also, new ships must use advanced emission control technologies beginning in 2016 which will help reduce NOx emissions.
As a result of the cleaner air, nearly five million people will experience relief from acute respiratory symptoms in 2020 and as many as 14,000 lives will be saved each year.
Canada and France join the U.S. in this North American ECA, implementing a coordinated geographic emissions control program. In developing the U.S. proposal, EPA joined with federal partners at the Departments of Homeland Security, Defense, State, Transportation, and Commerce, among others. This is the first ECA adopted under amendments to an IMO treaty in 2008 that strengthened and expanded both the ECA emissions standards and the approval criteria.
The North American ECA is a key part of a comprehensive EPA program to address harmful emissions from large ships. Other elements include voluntary partnerships under EPA’s Clean Ports USA program and implementation of a Clean Air Act rulemaking that EPA finalized last December.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) today officially accepted the proposal to designate waters off the North American coasts as an Emission Control Area (ECA) –a move that will result in cleaner air for millions of Americans. Large ships that operate in ECAs must use dramatically cleaner fuel and technology, leading to major air quality and public health benefits that extend hundreds of miles inland. The ECA was proposed in March 2009 and the IMO adopted it in the fastest possible timetable.
“This is a change that will benefit millions of people and set in motion new innovations for the shipping industry. We’re gratified by the IMO’s decision to help keep our air clean and our communities healthy,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “The sulfur, particulate emissions and other harmful pollutants from large ships reach from our ports to communities hundreds of miles inland -- bringing with them health, environmental and economic burdens. Cleaning up our shipping lanes will be a boon to communities across North America.”
The large commercial ships that visit the nation’s ports, such as oil tankers, cruise ships and container ships, currently use fuel with very high sulfur content which, when burned, emits harmful levels of particulate matter and nitrogen oxide that can travel hundreds of miles inland, causing severe respiratory symptoms in children and adults.These ships, most flying the flags of other countries, make more than 57,000 calls at more than 100 U.S. ports annually. More than 30 of these ports are in metropolitan areas that fail to meet federal air quality standards. In total, nearly 127 million people currently live in areas that fail to meet U.S. air quality standards.
Enforcing the stringent ECA standards will reduce sulfur content in fuel by 98 percent - slashing particulate matter emissions by 85 percent, and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 80 percent. To achieve these reductions, tougher sulfur standards will phase in starting in 2012, ultimately reaching no more than 1,000 parts per million by 2015. Also, new ships must use advanced emission control technologies beginning in 2016 which will help reduce NOx emissions.
As a result of the cleaner air, nearly five million people will experience relief from acute respiratory symptoms in 2020 and as many as 14,000 lives will be saved each year.
Canada and France join the U.S. in this North American ECA, implementing a coordinated geographic emissions control program. In developing the U.S. proposal, EPA joined with federal partners at the Departments of Homeland Security, Defense, State, Transportation, and Commerce, among others. This is the first ECA adopted under amendments to an IMO treaty in 2008 that strengthened and expanded both the ECA emissions standards and the approval criteria.
The North American ECA is a key part of a comprehensive EPA program to address harmful emissions from large ships. Other elements include voluntary partnerships under EPA’s Clean Ports USA program and implementation of a Clean Air Act rulemaking that EPA finalized last December.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Spring 2010: Itinerary Planning: Trends
Three itinerary trends characterize the cruise industry in 2010: capacity reduction in Alaska, increased capacity in the Caribbean and a build-up in Europe, according to Terry Thornton, senior vice president of market planning at Carnival Cruise Lines.
“Cruise lines are struggling to make a profit in Alaska,” Thornton said, noting that the head tax is part of the problem, “because ultimately that cost is passed along to the consumer,” adding to the cost of the cruise. More ships will be leaving Alaska in 2011, and Thornton predicted further migration.
“The Caribbean is seeing its first major capacity increase in years,” Thornton said, attributing the increase mainly to the new ships – the Carnival Dream, the Oasis of the Seas, the Norwegian Epic and the Allure of the Seas. And all of that new capacity is out of South Florida.
As for Europe, there are two sides of the industry and both are growing in 2010: the cruise lines that source in Europe and internationally, and those that source primarily from North America. More Americans are again interested in going to Europe, Thornton said, noting that as a good sign.
A common trend among most cruise lines is more international deployment and passenger sourcing.
At Royal Caribbean Cruises, Diana Block, vice president of revenue management and deployment for the company’s three brands, said they will continue to focus on international growth, including dedicating ships to foreign markets.
Deanna Austin, senior vice president of yield management, planning and customer service, and Crystal Morgan, director of market planning at Princess Cruises, said that the line will continue to focus on port content. “Basically, we look for demand and the highest revenue, but must make sure that the customer is happy,” Austin noted.
The proposed Emission Control Area (ECA) for North America; the heavy-fuel ban in Antarctica; the $50 head tax in Alaska; and declining demand for the Mexican Riviera, attributed to media coverage of drug wars, are among the many issues that cruise lines are tackling.
“We have to be more careful in planning and pricing, and we have to be flexible, so we can expand or constrict if we have to. We are also offering more variety of cruises and different starting points and days,” Morgan added.
At Holland America Line, Simon Douwes, director of deployment and itinerary planning, concurred. “We deploy ships where we can expect the highest yield,” he said, noting that Holland America typically plans 18 months out.
Passenger spending plays a key role. Said Paul Goodwin, senior vice president of onboard revenue and tours at Holland America: “Shore excursions are our number one gross revenue producer.’ But the numbers vary dramatically in different areas, with shore excursions in European being the most popular.
“Our criteria are focused on creating itineraries that we are able to sell and that work operationally,” added Thornton. ‘Our biggest concern is fuel. We are working to find more ways to conserve and to offer sellable ticket propositions. Once in port, we need to generate revenue from shore excursions.”
Excerpted from the Spring 2010 Cruise Industry News Quarterly Magazine
“Cruise lines are struggling to make a profit in Alaska,” Thornton said, noting that the head tax is part of the problem, “because ultimately that cost is passed along to the consumer,” adding to the cost of the cruise. More ships will be leaving Alaska in 2011, and Thornton predicted further migration.
“The Caribbean is seeing its first major capacity increase in years,” Thornton said, attributing the increase mainly to the new ships – the Carnival Dream, the Oasis of the Seas, the Norwegian Epic and the Allure of the Seas. And all of that new capacity is out of South Florida.
As for Europe, there are two sides of the industry and both are growing in 2010: the cruise lines that source in Europe and internationally, and those that source primarily from North America. More Americans are again interested in going to Europe, Thornton said, noting that as a good sign.
A common trend among most cruise lines is more international deployment and passenger sourcing.
At Royal Caribbean Cruises, Diana Block, vice president of revenue management and deployment for the company’s three brands, said they will continue to focus on international growth, including dedicating ships to foreign markets.
Deanna Austin, senior vice president of yield management, planning and customer service, and Crystal Morgan, director of market planning at Princess Cruises, said that the line will continue to focus on port content. “Basically, we look for demand and the highest revenue, but must make sure that the customer is happy,” Austin noted.
The proposed Emission Control Area (ECA) for North America; the heavy-fuel ban in Antarctica; the $50 head tax in Alaska; and declining demand for the Mexican Riviera, attributed to media coverage of drug wars, are among the many issues that cruise lines are tackling.
“We have to be more careful in planning and pricing, and we have to be flexible, so we can expand or constrict if we have to. We are also offering more variety of cruises and different starting points and days,” Morgan added.
At Holland America Line, Simon Douwes, director of deployment and itinerary planning, concurred. “We deploy ships where we can expect the highest yield,” he said, noting that Holland America typically plans 18 months out.
Passenger spending plays a key role. Said Paul Goodwin, senior vice president of onboard revenue and tours at Holland America: “Shore excursions are our number one gross revenue producer.’ But the numbers vary dramatically in different areas, with shore excursions in European being the most popular.
“Our criteria are focused on creating itineraries that we are able to sell and that work operationally,” added Thornton. ‘Our biggest concern is fuel. We are working to find more ways to conserve and to offer sellable ticket propositions. Once in port, we need to generate revenue from shore excursions.”
Excerpted from the Spring 2010 Cruise Industry News Quarterly Magazine
Sunday, March 14, 2010
From "Cruise Industry News"
Costa Claims Environmental Leadership
Speaking during “Corporate Social Responsibility Day” at ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade show, Costa Crociere Chairman and CEO Pier Luigi Foschi said that the European cruise industry is at the forefront in terms of environmental sustainability and protection.
“Environmental commitment is not only a moral priority for European cruise companies, but also a substantial asset that cruise guests acknowledge and appreciate, making it very much also a key strategic factor. I believe that, by going beyond the scope of the increasingly stringent requirements, the Costa Crociere Group is doing the utmost to be a model of environmental compliance excellence.” Foschi was taking part in the panel discussion “Booming Cruise Industry – growth at the expense of the environment?” held at the ITB Berlin Convention.
The discussion – at which Costa Crociere was the only cruise segment representative – opened with introductory presentations by ocean explorer and environmental activist Fabien Cousteau, and Anders Levermann, Professor of Dynamics of the Climate System and Head of the PIK (Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research) Flagship activity Tumble. In addition to Foschi, the other speakers on the panel moderated by Berliner Zeitung Editor Gerold Buchner were Carlos Fuller, deputy director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, and Rudiger Pallentin, managing director of the Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven shipyard.
In his presentation, the Costa Chairman and CEO described how, within the framework of the European Cruise Council, the different cruise companies are working actively to set shared environmental compliance standards, cooperate with maritime authorities, promote and support port facilities for disposal and recycling of shipboard waste, and promote measures aimed at energy saving and the reduction of CO2 emissions.
As regards Costa Crociere, Foschi said that the group is the industry leader in Europe not only in terms of the number of guests carried but also on account of its commitment to safeguarding the environment. The latest addition to the Costas fleet, Costa Deliziosa, inaugurated in Dubai on Feb. 23, and her sister ship, the Luminosa, are the first ships in Italy to be equipped for cold ironing, enabling generators to be shut down during stopovers in port.
Like the other 14 ships of the Costa fleet, the Costa Deliziosa is among the most advanced ships in the world in terms of environmental design, management, compliance and energy saving, according to the cruise line. Across the Costa fleet there is a policy of 100 percent separation of shipboard solid waste and no special waste is ever discharged overboard. Waste recycling is a top priority: approximately 1,675 cubic meters of glass and 451 cubic meters of aluminum from Costa’s ships were sent for recycling in 2008. Also, most of the water used on the ships in the Costa Cruises fleet is produced directly on board using desalination plants.
Just as important are the energy and fuel saving measures introduced onboard, with a consequent decrease in pollutant emissions. In 2008 Costa obtained a 5 percent in fuel consumption per mile sailed (down from 356 kg in 2007 to 339 kg in 2008).
Measures include the use of silicone-based coatings for the hulls, thus enhancing hydrodynamic performance and reducing the growth of microorganisms on the surface without any toxic effects; use of low power consumption LED light bulbs; and economizers enabling the recycling of hot water produced by the engines for heating in the cabins and public areas. Also, the design of the Costa Deliziosa features various additional CO2 emission-reducing measures such as: key-card holders, so that lights and other electrical devices can only be turned on when the cabin is occupied; water flow reducers on all the faucets and showers, thus reducing shipboard water consumption; and an automatic dark-activated sensor that switches on all the ship’s external lights at dusk.
Costa Cruises has voluntarily implemented environmental compliance procedures fleet-wide that are even stricter than the mandatory provisions laid down by the (local, national and international) laws and regulations in force. This engagement is reflected in the assignment of the Green Star notation by RINA and by the “B.E.S.T. 4” (Business Excellence Sustainable Task), an integrated management system that encompasses four types of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards in the areas of quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, issued in 2000), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 2007) and social accountability (SA 8000, 2008), guaranteeing the measurement of company performance and continuous improvement. Costa obtained the B.E.S.T. 4 from RINA in 2004, thus becoming the first company in the world to do so.
Costa Cruises’ commitment to the defense of the marine environment is reflected by the extension of its partnership with WWF, which involves active support for a project to set up a network of Marine Protected Areas in the Mediterranean and by the project of collaboration launched in 2005 with the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission for monitoring climate change in the Mediterranean.
Costas believes in and actively promotes responsible tourism not just on board its ships but also ashore: its shoreside excursions are also organized in accordance with this priority. In 2010 Costa is offering around 240 eco-tourism excursions, comprising visits to parks, oases and nature reserves, with programs that minimize the impact on the ecosystem and create economic opportunities for the local communities in developing areas.
The commitment to safeguarding the environment and to corporate social responsibility in general is reflected in particular in Costa’s Sustainability Report, a voluntary form of reporting designed to provide comprehensive and transparent information on the effects of corporate activity on the environment and the community.
Speaking during “Corporate Social Responsibility Day” at ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade show, Costa Crociere Chairman and CEO Pier Luigi Foschi said that the European cruise industry is at the forefront in terms of environmental sustainability and protection.
“Environmental commitment is not only a moral priority for European cruise companies, but also a substantial asset that cruise guests acknowledge and appreciate, making it very much also a key strategic factor. I believe that, by going beyond the scope of the increasingly stringent requirements, the Costa Crociere Group is doing the utmost to be a model of environmental compliance excellence.” Foschi was taking part in the panel discussion “Booming Cruise Industry – growth at the expense of the environment?” held at the ITB Berlin Convention.
The discussion – at which Costa Crociere was the only cruise segment representative – opened with introductory presentations by ocean explorer and environmental activist Fabien Cousteau, and Anders Levermann, Professor of Dynamics of the Climate System and Head of the PIK (Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research) Flagship activity Tumble. In addition to Foschi, the other speakers on the panel moderated by Berliner Zeitung Editor Gerold Buchner were Carlos Fuller, deputy director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, and Rudiger Pallentin, managing director of the Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven shipyard.
In his presentation, the Costa Chairman and CEO described how, within the framework of the European Cruise Council, the different cruise companies are working actively to set shared environmental compliance standards, cooperate with maritime authorities, promote and support port facilities for disposal and recycling of shipboard waste, and promote measures aimed at energy saving and the reduction of CO2 emissions.
As regards Costa Crociere, Foschi said that the group is the industry leader in Europe not only in terms of the number of guests carried but also on account of its commitment to safeguarding the environment. The latest addition to the Costas fleet, Costa Deliziosa, inaugurated in Dubai on Feb. 23, and her sister ship, the Luminosa, are the first ships in Italy to be equipped for cold ironing, enabling generators to be shut down during stopovers in port.
Like the other 14 ships of the Costa fleet, the Costa Deliziosa is among the most advanced ships in the world in terms of environmental design, management, compliance and energy saving, according to the cruise line. Across the Costa fleet there is a policy of 100 percent separation of shipboard solid waste and no special waste is ever discharged overboard. Waste recycling is a top priority: approximately 1,675 cubic meters of glass and 451 cubic meters of aluminum from Costa’s ships were sent for recycling in 2008. Also, most of the water used on the ships in the Costa Cruises fleet is produced directly on board using desalination plants.
Just as important are the energy and fuel saving measures introduced onboard, with a consequent decrease in pollutant emissions. In 2008 Costa obtained a 5 percent in fuel consumption per mile sailed (down from 356 kg in 2007 to 339 kg in 2008).
Measures include the use of silicone-based coatings for the hulls, thus enhancing hydrodynamic performance and reducing the growth of microorganisms on the surface without any toxic effects; use of low power consumption LED light bulbs; and economizers enabling the recycling of hot water produced by the engines for heating in the cabins and public areas. Also, the design of the Costa Deliziosa features various additional CO2 emission-reducing measures such as: key-card holders, so that lights and other electrical devices can only be turned on when the cabin is occupied; water flow reducers on all the faucets and showers, thus reducing shipboard water consumption; and an automatic dark-activated sensor that switches on all the ship’s external lights at dusk.
Costa Cruises has voluntarily implemented environmental compliance procedures fleet-wide that are even stricter than the mandatory provisions laid down by the (local, national and international) laws and regulations in force. This engagement is reflected in the assignment of the Green Star notation by RINA and by the “B.E.S.T. 4” (Business Excellence Sustainable Task), an integrated management system that encompasses four types of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards in the areas of quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, issued in 2000), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 2007) and social accountability (SA 8000, 2008), guaranteeing the measurement of company performance and continuous improvement. Costa obtained the B.E.S.T. 4 from RINA in 2004, thus becoming the first company in the world to do so.
Costa Cruises’ commitment to the defense of the marine environment is reflected by the extension of its partnership with WWF, which involves active support for a project to set up a network of Marine Protected Areas in the Mediterranean and by the project of collaboration launched in 2005 with the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission for monitoring climate change in the Mediterranean.
Costas believes in and actively promotes responsible tourism not just on board its ships but also ashore: its shoreside excursions are also organized in accordance with this priority. In 2010 Costa is offering around 240 eco-tourism excursions, comprising visits to parks, oases and nature reserves, with programs that minimize the impact on the ecosystem and create economic opportunities for the local communities in developing areas.
The commitment to safeguarding the environment and to corporate social responsibility in general is reflected in particular in Costa’s Sustainability Report, a voluntary form of reporting designed to provide comprehensive and transparent information on the effects of corporate activity on the environment and the community.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
CRUISES INC. NAMED CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES' ‘TRAVEL AGENCY OF THE YEAR’
MIAMI (March 1, 2010) – Cruises Inc. and parent company World Travel Holdings, have been named Carnival Cruise Lines’ “Travel Agency of the Year” for 2009.
Cruises Inc. of World Travel Holdings was selected from more than 30,000 cruise-selling travel agencies throughout the U.S. and Canada. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to grow as a business partner, as well as exhibit exceptional professionalism, enthusiasm and innovation in sales and marketing techniques.
Joni Rein, Carnival’s vice president of worldwide sales, noted “Despite a challenging economy, Cruises Inc. continue to thrive, investing in the latest technology and training and employing knowledgeable cruise professionals who go the extra mile to offer personalized, hands-on service to their clients,” she said. “The entrepreneurial spirit, keen understanding of consumer trends, and strong support of the cruise industry have made them leaders in our industry,” she added.
Dwain Wall, senior vice president and general manager, said, “Carnival Cruise Lines has always had a strong partnership with Cruises Inc. but most importantly has consistently delivered a terrific product at extraordinary value for our customers. In spite of a difficult economic climate, Carnival continued to deliver on their winning formula. Cruises Inc. values our partnership with Carnival. We sell the product with great confidence that our customers will have an experience that exceeds their expectations.”
Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 “Fun Ships” operating voyages ranging from three to 15 days in length to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Panama Canal, Canada, New England and Europe. Carnival also has two new ships on order -- the 130,000-ton Carnival Magic, which is scheduled for delivery in 2011, and a sister ship set to debut in 2012.
Cruises Inc., a large network of independent travel sellers, was founded in 1982 and currently has nearly 500 agents throughout the United States. They combine industry buying power with a unique, customized experience that offers customers the ability to plan vacations online while enjoying the personalized touch of an experienced local cruise specialist. As part of World Travel Holdings (WTH), Cruises Inc. is the largest seller of cruises in the nation. Having relationships with every major cruise line and many land tour operators, allows them to offer consumers the lowest possible vacation pricing with unrivaled incentives.
Cruises Inc. of World Travel Holdings was selected from more than 30,000 cruise-selling travel agencies throughout the U.S. and Canada. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to grow as a business partner, as well as exhibit exceptional professionalism, enthusiasm and innovation in sales and marketing techniques.
Joni Rein, Carnival’s vice president of worldwide sales, noted “Despite a challenging economy, Cruises Inc. continue to thrive, investing in the latest technology and training and employing knowledgeable cruise professionals who go the extra mile to offer personalized, hands-on service to their clients,” she said. “The entrepreneurial spirit, keen understanding of consumer trends, and strong support of the cruise industry have made them leaders in our industry,” she added.
Dwain Wall, senior vice president and general manager, said, “Carnival Cruise Lines has always had a strong partnership with Cruises Inc. but most importantly has consistently delivered a terrific product at extraordinary value for our customers. In spite of a difficult economic climate, Carnival continued to deliver on their winning formula. Cruises Inc. values our partnership with Carnival. We sell the product with great confidence that our customers will have an experience that exceeds their expectations.”
Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 “Fun Ships” operating voyages ranging from three to 15 days in length to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Panama Canal, Canada, New England and Europe. Carnival also has two new ships on order -- the 130,000-ton Carnival Magic, which is scheduled for delivery in 2011, and a sister ship set to debut in 2012.
Cruises Inc., a large network of independent travel sellers, was founded in 1982 and currently has nearly 500 agents throughout the United States. They combine industry buying power with a unique, customized experience that offers customers the ability to plan vacations online while enjoying the personalized touch of an experienced local cruise specialist. As part of World Travel Holdings (WTH), Cruises Inc. is the largest seller of cruises in the nation. Having relationships with every major cruise line and many land tour operators, allows them to offer consumers the lowest possible vacation pricing with unrivaled incentives.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
A Little Something For Valentines Day From Cruises Inc.
CruiseOne/Cruises Inc. Rank Top Romantic Cruise Adventures
Published on: February 12, 2010
CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. compiled a list of the Top Five Romantic Cruise Adventures for 2010. They are as follows.
Most Innovative Gift Registry Program: Carnival Cruise Lines. Couples planning their wedding, honeymoon or vow renewal onboard a Carnival cruise can visit carnival.honeymoonwishes.com to set up a free gift registry. Friends and family can make purchases on all major credit cards and can create a printable card announcing their gift to the couple. The Carnival Registry also gives couples access to a free wedding website, free wedding journal, wedding announcements, save-the-date cards, shower ideas and an online photo album.
Most Unique, All-Encompassing Wedding Offerings at Sea: Celebrity Cruises. The travel retailers recommend a wedding ceremony performed seaside by the ship’s captain at the Lawn Club on the Solstice-class ships. Celebrity also offers a variety of Nautical Nuptials packages that include wedding planning, save-the-date packages and thank-you gifts delivered to your guests onboard. CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. also recommend that women book the Bridesmaid Tea Party and men book the Cognac & Cigars Package.
Most Intimate Couples Spa Treatment: Costa Cruises. Costa offers a Tantric ceremony in the Samsara Spa onboard Costa Serena, Concordia, Luminosa, Pacifica and Deliziosa. The ceremony takes place in a private, lavish Couples Spa Suite and includes a Shanti Foot Cleaning Ritual, the choice of one couple’s spa treatment and a bathing ritual. Couples can add champagne and strawberries for the completion of the ceremony. Pricing is $506 per couple.
Most Decadent Romance Package: Norwegian Cruise Line. The line’s Deluxe Romance Package, priced at $329, includes sparkling wine and strawberries upon arrival, the choice of an exotic spa treatment in Mandara Spa, two 25-minute massages, afternoon tea service, breakfast in bed, a keepsake formal portrait and dinner for two in Le Bistro with a bottle of wine.
Most Romantic Itinerary: Uniworld. Starting at $1,999 per person, Uniworld’s “Paris & European River Romance” sailing is an 11-day Paris-to-Nuremberg tour that combines seven nights on the river and two nights at a Paris hotel. The cruise sails on three rivers -- the Moselle, the Rhine and the Main. Stops include tours of winemaking villages, medieval towns and a visit to the Romantic Road. This itinerary is part of Uniworld’s Epicurean Adventure program, which includes private tastings and cooking demonstrations. All Uniworld sailings include evening al fresco dining, river-view staterooms, Egyptian cotton linens, European-style bedding, L’Occitane bath products, complimentary wine during dinner, complimentary bicycles to enhance sightseeing and more.
Published on: February 12, 2010
CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. compiled a list of the Top Five Romantic Cruise Adventures for 2010. They are as follows.
Most Innovative Gift Registry Program: Carnival Cruise Lines. Couples planning their wedding, honeymoon or vow renewal onboard a Carnival cruise can visit carnival.honeymoonwishes.com to set up a free gift registry. Friends and family can make purchases on all major credit cards and can create a printable card announcing their gift to the couple. The Carnival Registry also gives couples access to a free wedding website, free wedding journal, wedding announcements, save-the-date cards, shower ideas and an online photo album.
Most Unique, All-Encompassing Wedding Offerings at Sea: Celebrity Cruises. The travel retailers recommend a wedding ceremony performed seaside by the ship’s captain at the Lawn Club on the Solstice-class ships. Celebrity also offers a variety of Nautical Nuptials packages that include wedding planning, save-the-date packages and thank-you gifts delivered to your guests onboard. CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. also recommend that women book the Bridesmaid Tea Party and men book the Cognac & Cigars Package.
Most Intimate Couples Spa Treatment: Costa Cruises. Costa offers a Tantric ceremony in the Samsara Spa onboard Costa Serena, Concordia, Luminosa, Pacifica and Deliziosa. The ceremony takes place in a private, lavish Couples Spa Suite and includes a Shanti Foot Cleaning Ritual, the choice of one couple’s spa treatment and a bathing ritual. Couples can add champagne and strawberries for the completion of the ceremony. Pricing is $506 per couple.
Most Decadent Romance Package: Norwegian Cruise Line. The line’s Deluxe Romance Package, priced at $329, includes sparkling wine and strawberries upon arrival, the choice of an exotic spa treatment in Mandara Spa, two 25-minute massages, afternoon tea service, breakfast in bed, a keepsake formal portrait and dinner for two in Le Bistro with a bottle of wine.
Most Romantic Itinerary: Uniworld. Starting at $1,999 per person, Uniworld’s “Paris & European River Romance” sailing is an 11-day Paris-to-Nuremberg tour that combines seven nights on the river and two nights at a Paris hotel. The cruise sails on three rivers -- the Moselle, the Rhine and the Main. Stops include tours of winemaking villages, medieval towns and a visit to the Romantic Road. This itinerary is part of Uniworld’s Epicurean Adventure program, which includes private tastings and cooking demonstrations. All Uniworld sailings include evening al fresco dining, river-view staterooms, Egyptian cotton linens, European-style bedding, L’Occitane bath products, complimentary wine during dinner, complimentary bicycles to enhance sightseeing and more.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
2010 And Beyond As Viewed From the Bow
For many of us cruisers of the Blue Marble, viewing 2009 from the fantail now falling away and disappearing over the horizon, we generally feel some sense of relief or comfort that we survived the "big one". For the most part we did! And it could have been a lot worse. Still, for a number of folks, the collateral damage continues to be real and I know all of you more fortunate cruisers of The Blue Marble hope they find some peace in all of this and maybe even join us on a voyage some day.
Looking forward, the cruise industry for all appearances, navigated some rough seas but appears to be emerging from the dark days with new vessels and itineraries and even more in 2011 and 2012. These will be exciting times for the industry.
As for the the theme of this blog in 2010, we will continue on with news from the cruise industry, it's relationship to the environment, some good old science to help us stay on course and a few opinions on occasion to poke fun at the "whiners outside the fence line".
Check back soon for new updates from the "Greenhouse Gas Zone" and shortly I'll begin the series, "The Cruise Industry And The Environment".
One final note. In the midst of the misery of 2009, when we were all wondering when "it" will bottom out, I passed on a quote I once saw to those seeking some comfort at the time: "It's always darkest just before it goes pitch black".
Looking forward, the cruise industry for all appearances, navigated some rough seas but appears to be emerging from the dark days with new vessels and itineraries and even more in 2011 and 2012. These will be exciting times for the industry.
As for the the theme of this blog in 2010, we will continue on with news from the cruise industry, it's relationship to the environment, some good old science to help us stay on course and a few opinions on occasion to poke fun at the "whiners outside the fence line".
Check back soon for new updates from the "Greenhouse Gas Zone" and shortly I'll begin the series, "The Cruise Industry And The Environment".
One final note. In the midst of the misery of 2009, when we were all wondering when "it" will bottom out, I passed on a quote I once saw to those seeking some comfort at the time: "It's always darkest just before it goes pitch black".
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