Cruise
CLIA, Marriott Launch New Partnership
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and Marriott International have launched a new partnership to provide qualifying CLIA members a variety of benefits, including commissions on qualified hotel bookings across Marriott’s 19 brands. The new partnership also provides CLIA Agency and Individual Agent Members access to Marriott’s Fam-Tastic familiarization rates. Agents who are associated with a qualifying CLIA Travel Agency and hold a CLIA EMBARC ID are eligible to access the rates once they successfully complete Marriott’s Hotel Excellence! training program and become a...
A Sparkling Celebration
AmaWaterways christened its two newest ships – AmaViola and AmaStella – in Vilshofen, Germany last week. On hand for the celebrations were the line’s co-founders, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, who were joined by the ships’ godmothers and local dignitaries. The events included a signing of the ship’s guestbook, prayer by the abbot, live music and Bavarian cuisine. A special song was also written in honor of AmaViola by a local Vilshofen musician, and performed during the ceremony. During the festivities, AmaWaterways welcomed Nexion president, Jackie Friedman as the...
Celestyal Adds Punta Frances to Cuba Program
Celestyal Cruises has added Punta Frances, Cuba, as its newest port for the upcoming 2016-2017 Caribbean season. Chosen for its “authentic vibe, impeccable beachfront and crystalline waters coloured every shade of blue,” Punta Frances will replace Maria La Gorda on Celestyal's all-inclusive seven-day Cuba itinerary. Located on the secluded Isla de la Juventud (Isle of Youth), the largest of over 300 islets that make up Cuba’s Archipelago de los Canarreos, Punta Frances is an idyllic destination for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. Guests will travel to the western tip...
Star Pride Re-Enters Windstar Fleet
Windstar Cruises' 212-passenger Star Pride is back in the fleet following a US$4.5 million refurbishment, including a complete renovation of two exclusive Owner’s Suites. Also included were nautically inspired remodeling of public spaces, dining venues and more throughout the yacht. The 2016 Star Pride transformation builds on earlier renovations now matching all guest accommodations and features of sister yachts, Star Breeze and Star Legend. Total investment in refurbishing the three yachts is over US$21.5 million in the last two years. Star Pride 2016 transformation...
Collette Unveils 2017-2018 River Cruise Lineup
Collette is set to take travellers beyond the river with the roll out of its 2017-2018 river cruises offerings. And, with the launch of the new program, clients can save up to $1,000 per person on cabin upgrades and up to $2,800 per couple on free air for select cruises. Collette has introduced five tour itineraries in Europe and two additional in Egypt and China offering up to $250 off per person on select booking. New tours among these river cruises include the Classic Danube, Magical Rhine and Moselle and the Springtime Tulip River Cruise – all featuring rich culture and...
CLIA Advises Travellers To Use a Travel Agent
Summer is peak travel season and while many may be tempted to book a summer vacation independently, experts agree there are multiple benefits to working with a travel agent. Seasoned travellers regularly use travel agents to access the best deals, promotions, advice and guarantees. And, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), seven out of 10 travellers use a travel agent to plan and book cruise vacations. “Just like you would use a certified mechanic to fix your car, it makes sense to use a certified travel expert to help plan your summer vacation, especially...
Adventure to Undergo $61 Million Revitalization
Royal Caribbean International will debut an array of new enhancements on board Adventure of the Seas this November, including new dual racer waterslides, Cyclone and Typhoon, a FlowRider surf simulator and a children’s aquapark, Splashaway Bay. In addition, guests will see a new lineup of culinary and entertainment venues with Izumi Japanese Cuisine, the brand’s signature steakhouse, Chops Grille and Boleros Latin Lounge. The ship also will receive more than 100 new staterooms, a refresh of all existing staterooms and a new Suites Lounge for the luxury traveller. The reinvented...
Avalon Has Special Deal For Agents
Stéphanie Bishop of the Globus family of brands is advising agents that the tour company has a significant series of cruises offered with deep discounts for agents on 2016 Avalon Waterways’ European river cruises. Numerous sailings on seven itineraries departing between July 1 and Dec. 10 are available with 70% off the land/cruise price on itineraries as varied as Magnificent Europe; the Romantic Rhine; and Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches. Also offered at 60% off are numerous departures on 10 itineraries including The Blue Danube Discovery; Canals, Vineyards & Paris; and...