Royal Caribbean cruise promotion 2014: Mariner Of the Seas

Back in June 2013, Royal Caribbean International's Mariner Of The Seas debut as the largest cruise ship in Asia. Through out 2013 summer cruise season, this voyager class cruise ship sailed in Asia servicing cruises out of Singapore and Shanghai, China. Mariner Of The Seas completed its first Singapore winter/spring season in March 2014 which started November 2013.

Mariner of the Seas has lined up a total of 29 sailings for this Singapore season, comprising a variety of 3, 4 and 5-night cruises to Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Langkawi, Penang and Phuket and a 7-night cruise to Bangkok (Laem Chabang) (overnight) and Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My). Highlights included the festive cruises for Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year with special entertainment and feasts, as well as theme cruises namely the world’s first all-champions Latin dance competition cruise in January and the Valentine’s Cruise hosted by UFM100.3 deejay Wenhong and Lianhe Wanbao food critic Alan Ng from Singapore in February, attended by more than 600 fans.[1]

After her Shanghai season for the summer and autumn which features North Asian sailings, Mariner of the Seas will be returning to Singapore this November for her next season. For her short cruises of 3 to 5 nights, Kuantan will be the newest port-of-call, on top of Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Langkawi and Phuket.

The ship will also add more long scenic sailings of 7 nights to her repertoire of Southeast Asian itineraries, due to popular demand. These come with overnight stays at Phuket or Bangkok (Laem Chabang) as the highlights, which offer more time for guests to explore these popular ports-of-call from day to night as well as the ship’s wide range of amenities and activities. Examples are the 7-Night Spice of Southeast Asia Cruise to Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Penang, Langkawi and Phuket (overnight) on January 19 and 26, 2015 and the 7-Night Thailand & Vietnam Cruise to Bangkok (Laem Chabang) (overnight) and Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) on February 11.

Royal Carribean's Mariner Of the Seas

You can access to some Royal Caribbean Cruise promotion on Mariner Of the Seas here. Some itineraries are:

Asia Weekend Cruise (3 Nights)
The cruise from Singapore is departing on Nov 21, Nov 28, Dec 19, Dec 26, 2014, Jan 16 and Mar 4, 2015. The cruise calls Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur) starting from $408 instead  of usual price of $608.

Best of Malaysia Cruise (4 Nights)
The cruise from Singapore is departing on Nov 17 Dec 15, 2014, Jan 8 and Feb 2, 2015 . The cruise calls Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur) and Langkawi Island starting from $438 instead  of usual price of $688.

Port Klang and Phuket Cruise (4 Nights)
The cruise from Singapore is departing on Nov 24 Dec 11, Dec 22, Jan 12 and Feb 18, 2015. The cruise calls Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur) and Phuket Island of Thailand starting from $438 instead  of usual price of $688.

Spices of South East Asia Cruise (5 Nights)
The cruise from Singapore is departing on Nov 12 Dec 1, 2014, Jan 3, Feb 6,  Feb 22 and  Feb 27,2015. The cruise calls Penang and Langkawi Islands of Malaysia and Phuket Island of Thailand starting from $548 instead  of usual price of $828.

Phuket and Malaysia Cruise (5 Nights)
The cruise from Singapore is departing on  Dec 6 and Dec 29 2014. The cruise calls Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Phuket (Overnight) starting from $628 instead of usual price of $978.

Malaysia and Thailand Cruise (7 Nights)
The cruise from Singapore is departing on Jan 19 and Jan 26 2015. The cruise calls Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Penang, Langkawi, Phuket (Overnight) starting from $758 instead of usual price of $1058.

Thailand and Vietnam Cruise (7 Nights)

The cruise from Singapore is departing on Feb 11, 2015. The cruise calls Bangkok (Overnight) and Ho Chi Minh City starting from $738 instead of usual price of $988.

Mariner of the Seas is one of five Voyager-class cruise ships. Mariner of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas are the second generation of Voyager-class vessels. Both have several features their first generation sisters (Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas ) lack such as glass balconies, an extended rear buffer and an Asian fusion buffet called "Jade". She has received "Royal Advantage" upgrades April 2012.

Royal Caribbean International is a Norwegian and American cruise line brand based in Miami, Florida. The cruise line owns 21 ships and controls a 17% share of the world cruise market. Since 1991 all ships under the Royal Caribbean International brand have names ending in "of the Seas". SCelebrity Cruises, Azamara Cruises, Pullmantur Cruises and CDF Croisières de France are all sister brands of Royal Caribbean International.

[1] - MARINER OF THE SEAS COMPLETES FIRST SINGAPORE WINTER / SPRING SEASON

Mariner of the Seas Singapore Winter Season

Royal Carribean's Mariner of the Seas, the largest cruise ship to be based in Asia, has arrived to Singapore on Sunday to start new cruise season. The  138,279-ton cruise ship, which will home-port Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, will offer 3 to 5 night cruises in South East Asia. She will cruise from Singapore to Phuket, Penang, Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang).

Mariner of the Seas is a Voyager class ships which represent the highest space-per-guest ratio in the cruise market. The spectacular ship was designed with enhanced staterooms, expanded dining options and state-of-the-art recreational facilities like a rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, and basketball court.

The winter season will also feature festive cruises for Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year.

Other than 3 to 5 night regular itineraries, Mariner Of the Seas will also offer specials: In February, Mariner Of The Seas will cruise for 7 night for overnight at Bangkok (Laemchabang), Thailand, and call at Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam. In another special 8 nights itinerary, she will cruise from Singapore to Shanghai (Baoshan), China, departing on March 7, and featuring an overnight at Hong Kong with calls at Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) and Xiamen, China.

Mariner of the Seas Singapore Winter Season

Below are the cruises from Singapore on Mariner Of The Seas.

3 NIGHT FAR EAST CRUISE
Departing from: Singapore

Ports: SINGAPORE, PORT KLANG - MALAYSIA, SINGAPORE
Itineraries :
2013 November 15, 22, 29,
2013 December 6,13, 20,
2014 January 20
2014 February 12, 27

4 NIGHT FAR EAST CRUISE
Departing from: Singapore
Ports: SINGAPORE, PORT KLANG - MALAYSIA, PHUKET - THAILAND, SINGAPORE
Itineraries :
2013 November 18, 25
2013 December 2,9,16
2014 January 7,16,29

5 NIGHT FAR EAST CRUISE

Departing from: Singapore 

Ports: SINGAPORE, PORT KLANG - MALAYSIA, PENANG - MALAYSIA, PHUKET - THAILAND, SINGAPORE 

Itineraries :
2013 December 23, 28
2014 January 2,11
2014 February 2,7,22
2014 March 2
2014 May 12

6 NIGHT FAR EAST CRUISE
Departing from: Singapore
Ports: SINGAPORE, PORT KLANG - MALAYSIA, LANGKAWI - MALAYSIA, PENANG - MALAYSIA, PHUKET - THAILAND, SINGAPORE
Itineraries :
2014 January 23

7 NIGHT FAR EAST CRUISE

Departing from: Singapore 

Ports: SINGAPORE, BANGKOK/LAEMCHABANG -THAILAND, BANGKOK/LAEMCHABANG -THAILAND, HO CHI MINH(PHU MY) - VIETNAM, SINGAPORE 

Itineraries :
2014 February 15

8 NIGHT FAR EAST CRUISE

Departing from: Singapore 

Ports: SINGAPORE, HO CHI MINH(PHU MY) - VIETNAM, HONG KONG - CHINA, HONG KONG - CHINA, XIAMEN - CHINA, SHANGHAI (BAOSHAN) - CHINA 

Itineraries :
2014 March 07

After homeporting in Singapore, Mariner of the Seas will sail roundtrip Korea cruises from Shanghai (Baoshan) on three- to six-night itineraries that call at Seoul (Incheon), Busan, Jeju Island, or Yeosu (Gangyang) from March through November 2014. The ship’s summer season will conclude with an eight-night sailing from Shanghai (Baoshan) to Singapore, departing Nov. 4, 2014, with ports of call at Xiamen and Hong Kong, China, and Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam.

Royal Caribbean Mariner Of The Seas' Winter 2014-2015 Cruise Season

Royal Caribbean's Mariner Of The Seas is in Asia since spring 2013. And will continue to serve the region, especially South East Asia in 2014 and 2015. Royal Caribbean has just announced 29 new destinations for this fantastic cruise ship in South East Asia. Starting November 2014, Mariner Of The Seas will homeport at Singapore and cruise from Singapore to Phuket, Penang, Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) for 3 to 5 night trips.

Other than these regular itineraries, there are specials: In February 2013, Mariner Of The Seas will cruise for 7 night for overnight at Bangkok (Laemchabang), Thailand, and call at Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam. In another special 8 nights itinerary, she will cruise from Singapore to Shanghai (Baoshan), China, departing on March 7, and featuring an overnight at Hong Kong with calls at Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) and Xiamen, China.

Voyager class cruise ship Mariner Of The Seas offers a wide range of onboard amenities and features the DreamWorks Experience at sea.  Guests can partake in parades, themed activities and other onboard events based on DreamWorks Animation’s popular feature-film characters, including Po of “Kung Fu Panda;” Shrek and Fiona of “Shrek;” and Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, and the Penguins from “Madagascar.” The ship also is equipped with a 3-D movie theater playing the latest DreamWorks Animation films.

Mariner of the Seas isone of Royal Caribbean’s Voyager class of ships, which first introduced the active cruise vacation concept. The ships feature iconic Royal Caribbean International amenities such as the rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, a nine-hole mini-golf course, full-size basketball and sports court, and the Royal Promenade, a boulevard that stretches nearly the length of the ship and is flanked by restaurants, lounges and boutiques.

For more info visit Royal Caribbean announces Mariner Of The Seas' Winter 2014-2015 Season.

Royal Caribbean Summer 2014 Asia Cruise Season

Royal Caribbean International announced its summer 2014 Asia cruise season for Voyager of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas, the largest cruise ships in the Pacific Ocean. They will be serving cruises from Shanghai (Baoshan), Beijing (Tianjin), Hong Kong, and Singapore with many onboard entertainment options such as DreamWorks Experience and signature onboard amenities as they embark on an incomparable vacation to Korea, Japan or Taiwan. Voyager of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas’ summer 2014 Asia season is now open for sale.

“We are delighted to offer Asia vacations that cannot be found anywhere except on Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas,” said Lisa Bauer, executive vice president of Global Sales and Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. “Guests of all ages will enjoy the DreamWorks Experience, a wide range of signature Royal Caribbean onboard amenities, and our award-winning entertainment and family programming. Throughout, every member of the staff and crew will deliver our world-renowned friendly and engaging GOLD Anchor Service on an unforgettable Asia vacation.”

Both Voyager of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas are among six Royal Caribbean ships that exclusively feature the DreamWorks Experience at sea.  Guests can partake in parades, themed activities and other onboard events based on DreamWorks Animation’s popular feature-film characters, including Po of “Kung Fu Panda;” Shrek, Fiona and Puss In Boots of “Shrek;” and Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, and the Penguins from “Madagascar.” Each ship also is equipped with a 3-D movie theater playing the latest DreamWorks Animation films.

Royal Caribbean’s younger guests in the complimentary and award-winning Adventure Ocean children’s program can relish in an exhilarating line-up of activities, games and adventures rooted in the popular DreamWorks Animation films. Guests of all ages can meet their favorite characters over the DreamWorks Character breakfast in the main dining room and take advantage of plenty of photo opportunities throughout the day. Additionally, guests can tune-in to DreamWorks Animation programming on a dedicated RCTV channel in every stateroom.

Additionally, Voyager of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas are among Royal Caribbean’s Voyager class of ships, which first introduced the active cruise vacation concept. The ships feature iconic Royal Caribbean International amenities such as the rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, a nine-hole mini-golf course, full-size basketball and sports court, and the Royal Promenade, a boulevard that stretches nearly the length of the ship and flanked by restaurants, lounges and boutiques.

Mariner of the Seas

Voyager of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas also uniquely offer guests the industry’s largest and most premium selection of duty-free shopping. Guests have a choice of more than 10 of the world’s best-known brands’ cosmetic and perfume lines, designer accessories and fine leather handbags from Coach, Burberry and Michael Kors, and nearly 30 brands of high-end watches. Mariner of the Seas also offers the first standalone IWC Schaffhausen boutique and the largest luxury and fashion watch store at sea.

Each ship’s Casino Royale also has been enhanced to deliver the next level of world-class gaming. Guests can join in more than 30 table games and have a choice of up to 292 slot machines throughout the 9,600 sq. ft. space. Additionally, high-rollers also will have exclusive access to parlors for high-stakes gaming in comfort, style and privacy.

From March through November 2014, Mariner of the Seas will sail roundtrip Korea cruises from Shanghai (Baoshan) on three- to six-night itineraries that call at Seoul (Incheon), Busan, Jeju Island, or Yeosu (Gangyang). The ship’s summer season will conclude with an eight-night sailing from Shanghai (Baoshan) to Singapore, departing Nov. 4, 2014, with ports of call at Xiamen and Hong Kong, China, and Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam.

For its part, Voyager of the Seas will start the summer 2014 season with a 10-night itinerary departing Singapore on April 10 to Tokyo, Japan, with calls at Hong Kong, Kaohsiung and Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan, and Nagasaki, Japan. The ship will then sail a six-night South Korea and Nagoya (Japan) itinerary, roundtrip from Tokyo on April 20, followed by two Japan cruises, a four-night itinerary from Tokyo to Taipei (Keelung) departing May 5, and a seven-night roundtrip itinerary from Taipei (Keelung) departing May 9.

From June through Sept. 2014, Voyager of the Seas will sail four- to six-night Korea itineraries roundtrip from Beijing (Tianjin), and call at Seoul (Incheon), Yeosu (Gangyang), Busan, and Jeju Island, South Korea. The ship will then sail a seven-night Japan and Korea cruise from Beijing (Tianjin) to Hong Kong on Sept. 10, followed by four-, five- and seven-night Japan and Taiwan cruises roundtrip from Hong Kong throughout Sept. and early Oct. 2014.

Royal Caribbean Promotion: Kids Travel Free in 2014 Europe Cruise Vacations

Royal Caribbean International's limited time only "Kids Tour Free" promotion offers free shore excursions for kids 12 and under in Europe cruises when two adults in the same stateroom book the same excursion. Kids Tour Free offer is for the guests who purchase their Europe cruise from August 24 through September 30, 2013 and can book their shore excursion through December 15, 2013.

You can also receive $1,000 off your cruise vacation when you book a balcony or suite stateroom on a 7-night cruise or longer, and book your flight with ChoiceAir. You can save even more by reserving two adult shore excursions in Europe, so the kids can tour free! Choose any ship and itinerary sailing Europe in 2014 to receive a free shore excursion for each child.

Royal Caribbean offers variety of options in Europe 2014 cruise itineraries: Seven-night itineraries on-board Spelndour of the Seas from Venice, Italy, visiting the Greek Isles and Turkey; Liberty of the Seas from Barcelona, Spain, or Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, to the Mediterranean and Brilliance of the Seas sailing from Southampton visiting Scandinavia and Russia.

On Liberty of the Seas there are many fun entertainment options for the kids: guests can enjoy the DreamWorks Experience, featuring parades, themed activities and events based on DreamWorks Animation’s popular feature-film characters, including Po of “Kung Fu Panda;” Shrek, Fiona and Puss In Boots of “Shrek;” and Alex the Lion and Gloria the Hippo from “Madagascar.” Guests also can take in the Broadway musical Saturday Night Fever as well as take a spin on the ship’s ice skating rink or hang ten on the Flowrider surf simulator.

“As kids head back to school, it’s the perfect time for families to start planning their next vacation, especially when you can take advantage of a value driven offer like Kids Tour Free,” said Lisa Bauer, Executive Vice President, Global Sales and Marketing, Royal Caribbean International.  “A Europe cruise vacation is the ideal itinerary to bring text books to life as young minds explore one of our many educational and enriching ports and shore excursions. Plus, the best way for families to enjoy all that Europe has to offer is to combine it with a diverse array of onboard activities from the Flowrider surf simulator and rock climbing wall to a Broadway show and spectacular entertainment for an experience only found on Royal Caribbean.”

Splendour of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas offer their guests Centrum experience – which includes a new high-flying entertainment experience where aerialists glide through the vertical space of the five-story atrium – while enjoying a classic cocktail at the  60’s-inspired R Bar.

Royal Caribbean Promotion: Kids Travel Free in 2014 Europe Cruise Vacations

Royal Caribbean Europe Cruises are not only limited to sailing: while in Europe you can join shore excursions designed with families in mind:  from a visit to the Tivoli Gardens and Theme Park in Copenhagen, Denmark ; and a family bike tour in Dubrovnik, Croatia, to learning how to make authentice Italina pizza in Sorrento, Italy, or experiencing a Russian folk-art tradition at a hands-on Matryoshka doll workshop in St. Petersburg, Russia. Guests can enjoy their time ashore with the peace of mind that all excursions are led by experienced and insured tour operators who offer in-depth knowledge of the cities and attractions visited.

If you are interested in Guests interested in “Kids Tour Free” offer visit RoyalCaribbean.com/KidsTourFree for more information.  To explore European cruise vacation itineraries, visit RoyalCaribbean.com/Europe. 

Royal Caribbean Cruise Promotion from Singapore to South East Asia

In 2013 spring, Mariner of the Seas cruise ship of Royal Caribbean International is relocated to Asia, servicing Asian Cruises out of Singapore and Shanghai, China. Currently, it serving cruises from Singapore to popular South East Asian destinations like Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Phuket, Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Penang, Langkawi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Royal Caribbean regularly offers cruise promotions on this cruise ship and below are the promotions available in this month:

3 Night Best of Malaysia Cruise - Mariner Of The Seas cruises from Singapore to  Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) on November 15, Nov 22, Nov 29, Dec 6, Dec 13, Dec 20 ,2013 Jan 20, Feb 12, Feb 27 ,2014. Promotional price is $387 instead of $553.

4 Night Isles Of Southeast Asia Cruise - Mariner Of The Seas cruises from Singapore to  Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) and Phuket on Nov 18, Nov 25, Dec 2#, Dec 9, Dec 16# ,2013 Jan 7, Jan 16, Jan 29 ,2014 . Promotional price is $448 instead of $648.

5 Night Bangkok Cruise - Mariner Of The Seas cruises from Singapore to  Bangkok (Laem Chabang) on Mar 2 ,2014.

5 Night Spices of Southeast Asia Cruise - Mariner Of The Seas cruises from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Penang, Phuket on Nov 10, Dec 23, Dec 28 ,2013, Jan 2, Jan 11, Feb 2, Feb 7, Feb 22# ,2014.

6 Night Spices of Southeast Asia Cruise - Mariner Of The Seas cruises from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Langkawi, Penang, Phuket on Jan 23 ,2014.

7 Night Thailand and Vietnam Cruise - Mariner Of The Seas cruises from Singapore to Bangkok (overnight), Ho Chi Minh City on Feb 15 ,2014.

Mariner of the Seas cruise ship of Royal Caribbean International is relocated to Asia,
servicing cruises out of Singapore and Shanghai, China

Which is the biggest cruise ship in the world?

There are many cruise ships sailing around the world. Have you ever wondered, which is the biggest cruise ship in the world? The largest cruise ship in the world is a cruise ship named Allure Of The Seas which belongs to cruise operator Royal Caribbean International. In fact both Allure Of The Seas and its sister Oasis Of The Seas have the exact same superstructure (both are Oasis Class cruise ships) and are supposed to be same size. But probably because of the heat difference during the measurement (metals expand as temperature increases) Allure Of The Seas measures 50 millimeters longer than Oasis Of The Seas and thus she is technically the largest cruise ship in the world and the largest passenger ship ever constructed.

Oasis class cruise ships are designed to carry 6,000 passangers and add the crew to this number they have capacity to sail around the seven seas with 8,000 people on board! Currently there are only 2 Oasis class cruise ships. A third one will be constructed in 2016 and there is also an option to construct a fourth one.

Built between 2007 and 2009 in Turku Finland, Oasis Of The Seas is a floating resort with full facilities. It has a mini golf course, a casino, bars, restaurants, night clubs, 5 swimming pools, volleyball and basketball courts, etc. As you can see in the picture below, this giant ship with 16 decks is an amazing machine.

Allure Of The Seas and Oasis Of The Seas (above) are the largest cruise ships in the world and the largest passenger ships ever constructed.

Oasis Of The Seas was constructed between 2008 – 2010 in Turku Finland and can carry 6296 passangers and 2384 crew.

But how large is the largest cruise ship? To visualize let’s compare an Oasis class ship with the largest passanger ships in the world 100 years ago: Olympic class passanger ships. Below is a comparison of Oasis Of The Seas and the most famous ship of Olympic class: ill-fated and infamous Titanic.

Oasis Of The Seas versus Titanic

The biggest cruise ship in 1912, RMS Titanic, and the biggest cruise ship in 2012, The Allure of The Seas

Royal Caribbean to deploy Mariner of the Seas to Hong Kong and Taiwan

Asian Cruises are increasingly getting popular and to cut a slice from the pie, Royal Caribbean International will deploy cruise ship Mariner of the Seas to Hong Kong and Taiwan on 29 October and 2 November 2013 according to an agreement with The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and the Taiwan Tourism Bureau.

Mariner of the Seas will cruise from Hong Kong to Kaohsiung and Keelung on a five-night, four-day itinerary on October 29 and on November 2, she will cruise from Hong Kong to Kaohsiungand return to Kai Tak Cruise Terminal on 5 November.

Hong Kong's new Kai Tak Cruise Terminal will have a soft launch in June 2013 and open to the public in the third quarter. The cruise ship terminal is at the site of the former Kai Tak Airport (at the tip of the Ex-Kai Tak Airport runway 31) and will have capacity to berth two large 360-metre-long vessels, which disembark a total of 5,400 passengers and 1,200 crew, as well as anticipating the demands of cruise liners currently on the drawing board.

Mariner of the Seas, a second generation of Voyager-class cruise ship, is relocated to Asia in summer of 2013 servicing cruises out of Singapore and Shanghai, China. The cruise ship has a capacity of 3,114 passengers and offers glass balconies, an outdoor movie screen, digital signage, ship-wide Wifi, a new diamond lounge, restaurants, etc.

Mariner of the Seas is cruising in Asia in summer 2013 and will serve two cruises from Hong Kong
to Taiwan on on 29 October and 2 November.

HKTB Chairman Dr Peter Lam said, “When Kai Tak Cruise Terminal begins service this month, Hong Kong will offer a wider range of cruise facilities for the world’s cruise liners. But in addition to world-class hardware and software, regional co-operation is crucial to the promotion of cruise tourism. This collaboration between the HKTB and the Taiwan Tourism Bureau is a model of such co-operation. The HKTB looks forward to working closely with Taiwan and other neighbouring ports to promote the development of regional cruise tourism and to attract more cruise companies to design itineraries featuring Hong Kong, in order to consolidate Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s Cruise Hub.”

Dr Wayne Liu, Deputy Director General of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau, said: “The rapid growth of the Asian tourism market has caused intense competition among countries and cities in the region. But to foster the healthy development of this market, it is vital for these competitors to achieve synergy by promoting the region’s tourism together, leveraging their unique tourism strengths. The joint cruise promotion between the HKTB and the Taiwan Tourism Bureau serves as an important collaborative model, as Hong Kong and Taiwan partner to tap the cruise potential of the region. We believe there will be ample collaborative opportunities for the two destinations to bring the region’s tourism to the next level.” 

Royal Caribbean Winter Cruise Season 2014-15: Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific season

Global Cruise tour brand Royal Caribbean International has announced its winter 2014 - 2015 cruise season for Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific. The cruise ship operator will serve the region in the season with three extensively revitalized cruise ships: Voyager of the Seas, Radiance of The Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas already has already been upgraded. Voyager of the Seas is planned to receive an update before its 2014-15 Australia season. These cruise ships will cruise from Sydney on two- to 17-night itineraries throughout Australia and the South Pacific.

Voyager of the Seas or Radiance of the Seas will offer a grand Australia cruise tour which is a combination of sailing with a four or five night land tour to Australias' must see in-land attractions. Radiance of the Seas will also offer 16 night northern coast cruising from Sydney to Fremantle and a 17-night southerly return sailing to Sydney via New Zealand. One pair of circumnavigation cruises departs Oct. 20, 2014 and the other on Feb. 26, 2015.

Rhapsody of the Seas will perform four Queensland cruises throughout winter cruising season of 2014-2015. These 11 night cruises will focus on destinations of Australia’s northeast coast, including an overnight at Cairns and a call at Airlie Beach for plenty of time to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

At the beginning and the end of Australia season, the ships offer long cruises on their way to and from Australia. Voyager of the Seas will cruise from Singapore to Sydney in 13 days itinerary on 25 November 2014 via the Coral Sea. The cruise ship will cruise from Sydney to Far East starting on 16 March 2015 via a 16-night 16-night southerly route to Fremantle, before continuing onward to Singapore on Apr 1st 2015.

Royal Caribbean International's Voyager of the Seas

At the beginning and the conclusion of the Australia season, vacationers also have a variety of sailings that brings each ship to their homeport of Sydney. Voyager of the Seas will sail a 13-night itinerary from Singapore to Sydney on Nov. 25, 2014 via the Coral Sea. The ship departs Sydney on Mar. 16, 2015 to the Far East via a 16-night southerly route to Fremantle, before continuing onward to Singapore on Apr. 1.

Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas will also offer a pair of trans-Pacific cruises from Vancouver Canada to Sydney via Hawaii. Rhapsody of the Seas will depart for Hawaii and the South Pacific on Sept. 5, 2014 and Radiance of the Seas will sail one week later on Sept. 12. The two ships will return to Vancouver at the end of the season, with Rhapsody of the Seas departing Sydney on Apr. 17, 2015 and Radiance of the Seas on Apr. 19.

MS Rhapsody of the Seas is a Vision-class cruise ship which can accommodate up to 2,435 passengers. It has onboard amenities such as a full-service spa, two swimming pools, six bars, and a Starbucks coffee shop which also contains a Ben and Jerry's ice-cream parlor. The cruise ship was upgraded in April 2012 with addition staterooms, an outdoor movie screen near the pool, new dining venues, digital signage, Wi-Fi internet access, concierge and diamond lounges, and a nursery.

MS Voyager of the Seas, is a Voyager-class cruise ship can handle up to 3114 guests and is referred to as a "Floating hotel" due to the range of facilities that it offers. Voyager of the Seas featured some world firsts for cruise ships when launched, including the first rock climbing wall (mounted on the funnel) and ice-skating rink at sea.

MS Radiance of the Seas is a Radiance-class cruise ship which can carry 2,501 passengers and is the first cruise ship to feature pool tables that are stabilized by a computer-controlled gyroscope.

Royal Caribbean cruise promotion 2013: Mariner Of the Seas

Just 2 months later Royal Caribbean International's Mariner Of The Seas will debut as the largest cruise ship in Asia. Through out 2013 summer cruise season, this voyager class cruise ship will sail in Asia servicing cruises out of Singapore and Shanghai, China.

Mariner of the Seas is one of five Voyager-class cruise ships. Mariner of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas are the second generation of Voyager-class vessels. Both have several features their first generation sisters (Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas ) lack such as glass balconies, an extended rear buffer and an Asian fusion buffet called "Jade". She has received "Royal Advantage" upgrades April 2012.

Royal Caribbean International is a Norwegian and American cruise line brand based in Miami, Florida. The cruise line owns 21 ships and controls a 17% share of the world cruise market. Since 1991 all ships under the Royal Caribbean International brand have names ending in "of the Seas". SCelebrity Cruises, Azamara Cruises, Pullmantur Cruises and CDF Croisières de France are all sister brands of Royal Caribbean International.

Mariner Of The Seas seen here in Caribbean will be deployed in Asia in summer 2013.

Like all cruise debuts, Mariner Of the Seas will come to South East Asia with special promotions. Below are some selected promotions for cruises departing from Singapore on Mariner Of the Seas by Royal Caribbean International for summer 2013.

Best Of Malaysia on Mariner of The Seas (3 Nights)
The cruise is departing from Singapore on June 1, November 15, 22 and 29, December 6, 13 and 20. The cruise calls Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur). From $424 instead  of usual price of $610.

Isles of South East Asia Cruise on Mariner of The Seas (4 Nights)
The cruise is departing from Singapore on Jun 4, Nov 18+, 25+, Dec 2, Dec 9 and Dec 16 2013. The cruise calls Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur) and Phuket. From $441 instead  of usual price of $667.

Spices of Asia Cruise on Mariner of The Seas (5 Nights)
The cruise is departing from Singapore on Nov 10, Dec 23 and Dec 28 2013. The cruise calls Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Penang and Phuket. From $542 instead  of usual price of $763.

Quantum class cruise ships: The next generation of cruise vacations

Sky diving at sea, a diamond shape observation capsule craned 300 feet above the ocean, The largest indoor active space at sea and virtual balcony staterooms. Royal Caribbean International’s new Quantum Class cruise ships will feature many firsts at sea and raise the bar again for cruise ship design. The first of the Quantum-class ships, Quantum Of Seas, is expected to enter service in 2014 Winter cruise season and home port Cape Liberty Cruise Port in New Jersey. This “floating resort” is scheduled to serve 7 to 12 night itineraries in Winter 214 cruise season. The second Quantum-class ship, Anthem of the Seas, is expected to be delivered in Spring 2015.

“This new generation of ships gave us an opportunity to make another leap in vessel design.  Innovation has always been part of our DNA and we have taken advantage of all that creativity to design Quantum cruising,” stated Richard D. Fain, chairman & CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.  “The unique features on Quantum will boggle our guests’ minds, but the real strength of the design is how our people have integrated all these diverse components to create a comfortable and exciting experience.”

Here are some of the new and innovative features of Quantum Class ships recently announced by Royal Caribbean International.

RipCord by iFly

RipCord by iFly will be the first skydiving experience at sea which will allow everyone from first-time flyers to seasoned skydivers to enjoy the sheer thrill and exhilaration of skydiving in a safe, controlled, and simulated environment.

RipCord by iFly
Photo - Huffington Post

North Star

NorthStar is an observation tower which uses a jewel-shaped, glass-walled capsule on the end of a long mechanical arm. North Star will lift a group of guests up and over the edge of the shi reaching 300 feet above sea level. Royal Caribbean plans NorthStar to be complimentary except for private trips, sunrise and sunset.

North Star
Photo - Huffington Post

Two70°

Two70° is a multi-level great room with a 270-degree panoramic sea views through vast, floor-to-ceiling glass walls spanning almost three decks at the stern of the ship.  By the day, Two70° will provide a modern and comfortable living room space for guests to sit back and relax.   As the sun sets and the lights go down, the dazzling space gradually reveals its evening persona, delighting guests with spectacular, mysterious and unexpected entertainment at night.

Two70° by day
Photo - Huffington Post

SeaPlex

SeaPlex will be the largest indoor active space at sea with thrilling new features.  Delivering more first at sea experiences, guests can experience a circus school with flying trapeze, or play basketball on a full-size regulation basketball court.  By night, the first-ever bumper car and roller skating offerings deliver fun and excitement.  Or, guests can dance to music orchestrated from a floating DJ booth which hovers above the activity below.

SeaPlex Bumper cars

2014 Europe Cruise Tours, Scandinavia and Baltic cruises by Royal Caribbean International

Norwegian-American cruise line Royal Caribbean International is deploying one of its vision class cruise ship, Legend of the Seas, for 2014 Scandinavia and Baltic cruises from Hamburg, Germany. Bookings for Legend of the Seas’ 2014 Scandinavia and Baltic cruises from Hamburg are open since April 11th 2013.

 2014 cruise schedule of Legend of the Seas is exiting:

• On July 2014, Legend of the Seas will re-position from Stockholm to Hamburg sailing a 14-night itinerary throughout the Baltic Sea that features a three-day call at St. Petersburg, Russia; a maiden call for the cruise line at Fredericia, Denmark; and a return to Klaipeda, Lithuania.
• Every Sunday in August 2014, she will sail for a 7 nights roundtrip itinerary from Hamburg, calling at Oslo, Stavanger, Geiranger and Ǻlesund.
• On Sept 7th 2014, she will depart for a 16-night transatlantic sailing to Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, N.J. Alternatively, vacationers also can embark in Oslo for the seven-night, round trip Norway itinerary, or for the ship's trans-Atlantic crossing.

Legend of the Seas will join other eight Royal Caribbean cruise ships to sail European waters in 2014. Other cruise ships are Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas Adventure of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, and Splendour of the Seas.

Legend of the Seas can carry 2,074 passengers and offers a wide range of facilities for her guests such as a theater, cinema, spa, pools, fitness center, bars, dance center, a golf course, rock-climbing wall, shopping center, a teen disco and a 2 story dining room called the Romeo & Juliet. She is the most travelled ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet. During her 14 years of career in the fleet, it has called Asia, Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific, Alaska, Caribbean, the Baltic, Mediterranean and the Middle East as home port.

Legend of The Seas

Royal Caribbean International has also announced its new 2014 Europe Cruise Tours, which combine a cruise with an exclusive land tour program that explores some of Europe’s most vibrant cities and interior regions such as Madrid, Florence, Rome and more.  The cruise line offers four  Cruise Tours that combine one of five ships with a three- to five-night land program that offers the best value to explore the many inland metropolises and attractions, as well as the coastal ones. Royal Caribbean takes care of all the planning for immersive Europe land tours, each featuring expert Adventure Specialists who act as guides, historians and concierges; carefully selected accommodations in the heart of each incredible city; premium baggage handling service throughout; transfers between cities, airport and ship; and built-in free time for guests to create their own one-of-a-kind adventure.

Two Royal Caribbean Cruisetour programs combine a Mediterranean cruise aboard Serenade of the Seas orSplendour of the Seas with either a four-night Madrid & Barcelona or a three-night Italian Lakes, Como & Venice land tour. On the latter itinerary, guest spend two nights in Como of the famed Lake Como and visit the quaint Italian town of Bellagio. Another immersive Italy cruisetour combines a Navigator of the Seas sailing with a five-night itinerary that includes all the must-see attractions of Venice, Florence & Rome. Furthermore, the Paris & London cruisetour combines a sailing aboard Adventure of the Seas or Brilliance of the Seas with a four-night itinerary that showcases Paris and London’s top, iconic landmarks.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Promotion 2013: 50 percent savings for third and forth guests

Norwegian and American cruise line Royal Caribbean International announced that it is offering significantly reduced third and forth dare offer for cruise vacations for new U.S. and Canadian bookings made from April 10th to May 10th 2013. The reduced third- and fourth-guest fares offer vacationers up to 50 percent savings for sailings departing on Sept. 1 through Dec. 31, 2013. Cheap third- and fourth-cruise guest fares start at $99 per guest for three-night Bahamas cruises and $199 per guest on four- to seven-night Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean and Europe cruises.

Royal Caribbean International controls a 17% share of the world cruise market with its 21 cruise ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand.

Additional to savings for third and forth guests, Royal Caribbean International is offering its valued travel agents more tools as part of the cruise line’s ongoing Loyal to You Always commitment to supporting them in growing their business and increasing profits. For all new U.S. and Canadian groups created from Apr. 8 through 21, 2013, aboard any Royal Caribbean sailing departing from Jan. 1 through Apr. 30, 2014, travel agents will earn two bonus Group Amenities Plus (GAP) points to add more value to their clients’ vacation. Travel agents can apply the GAP points toward additional stateroom amenities, such a bottle of sparkling wine, a welcome aboard fruit basket, robes to use on their cruise and more, to help secure a booking; recognize loyal clients; or acquire repeat business. Additional restrictions may apply. For more information about the Bonus GAP offer, travel agents should visit www.CruisingPower.com, the online portal dedicated to providing the most comprehensive tools and information for travel professionals selling Royal Caribbean International.

Royal Caribbean International owns 21 ships including the largest cruise ship ever built,
Allure of the Seas 

Royal Caribbean's Oasis Of The Seas to sail Europe in 2014

Royal Caribbean International's Oasis of the Seas, one of the world’s largest cruise ship, will be sailing Europe for a short autumn season in 2014. Renowned worldwide for its award-winning Caribbean cruise vacations, Oasis of the Seas now will offer a sampling of its unrivaled Oasis-class experience in Europe. Oasis of the Seas’ 2014 Europe season will open for sale on Apr. 11, 2013.

Oasis of the Seas has been delivered to  Royal Caribbean International in October 2009 and  become the largest cruise ship in the world at that time. ( Royal Caribbean's another cruise ship, Allure of the Seas, is 50 millimeters longer than it).

Guests will sail the Atlantic and Western Mediterranean and delight in Oasis-class exclusive amenities and concepts throughout its seven themed neighborhoods, such as an 82 foot-long zip line, a handcrafted carousel, the Rising Tide elevating bar, Broadway musicals, the Aquatheater high-diving performance venue, and Central Park with more than 12,000 live trees and plants. Oasis of the Seas also offers amenities that can only be found on Royal Caribbean, such as twin FlowRider surf simulators, cantilevered whirlpools, an ice-skating rink, the H20 Zone kids aquapark, and the Royal Promenade, an interior boulevard that stretches nearly the length of the ship and flanked by restaurants, lounges and boutiques, among many others.

Royal Caribbean’s award-winning family programming also will help ensure that guests of every generation can share in an unforgettable Europe family vacation aboard Oasis of the Seas. The cruise line’s complimentary Adventure Ocean kids program offers ongoing educational and entertaining sessions for three age groups from three- to 11-year-olds, led by college-accredited counselors from 9:00 to 2:00 a.m.  Two curricula for teens age 12 to 17 years offer more organic programming to offer them the flexibility to help shape their day with peers, as well as teen-only sessions on the FlowRider, Rock Wall and Sports Court. Furthermore, Oasis of the Seas also debuted the Royal Babies & Tots Nursery – soon to be fleetwide – that caters to Royal Caribbean’s youngest guests, age six to 36 months old.

 “Nothing can compare to the Oasis-class vacation experience, a testament to Royal Caribbean’s more than 40 years of innovation,” said Lisa Bauer, executive vice president of Global Sales and Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. “Now vacationers can combine Europe’s rich cultures and history with the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ship for a regional experience that can only be found on Royal Caribbean. And for those who have always wanted more time to enjoy the myriad activities on Oasis of the Seas, our two trans-Atlantic cruises will offer more than enough time to do everything on board, as well as some surprises along the way.”

Royal Caribbean Oasis Of The Seas will be sailing in Europe for a short autumn season in 2014

Two trans-Atlantic crossings will afford guests the opportunity to experience all of Oasis of the Seas’ unmatched innovative amenities, exclusive entertainment, and variety of dining experiences. On these cruises, guests also will enjoy an exclusive preview of the Quantum-class experience and join in special programs that will amplify the Oasis-class experience. A 12-night eastbound cruise from the ship’s homeport of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to Barcelona departs Sept. 1, 2014 and a 13-night westbound cruise will return Oasis of the Seas to Port Everglades from Rotterdam on Oct. 14. Vacationers also can embark the westbound trans-Atlantic cruise at Southampton on Oct. 15.

Guests also can enjoy the world-acclaimed ship on a choice of three Europe sailings. Vacationers can choose among two roundtrip sailings on a five-night Western Mediterranean itinerary from Barcelona, and a seven-night Spain itinerary sailing from Barcelona to Rotterdam, The Netherlands, where Oasis of the Seas will enter drydock in Képpel Verolme shipyard for routine maintenance. Additionally, a two-night Bahamas cruise departing on Aug. 30 and a five-night Western Caribbean cruise departing on Oct. 27, both roundtrip from Port Everglades, will bookend Oasis of the Seas’ short 2014 Europe season.

Launched in December 2009, Oasis of the Seas has been heralded as an architectural marvel at sea, spanning 16 decks, encompassing 225,282 gross registered tons, and has a double-occupancy capacity of 5,400 guests. Oasis of the Seas is first ship to tout the cruise line’s neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, comprising Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place and Youth Zone.        

 Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 22 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. Royal Caribbean provides a world-class vacation experience with a wide range of signature onboard amenities, entertainment, and award-winning family programming.

Royal Caribbean International's two Asian-based cruise ships Voyager of the Seas and Legend of the Seas both arrived at Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore

Royal Caribbean International whose two Asian-based cruise ships Voyager of the Seas and Legend of the Seas were both at brand new Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore in the morning of March 23rd 2013. Voyager of the Seas which can be seen on the left in the photo below is the largest cruise ship based in Asia. It was starting on her 8-night cruise from Singapore to Shanghai. Her sister ship Legend of the Seas was leaving for a 2-night Malacca weekend cruise as part of her Singapore season.

Voyager of the Seas has arrived in Singapore for the first time on May 26th 2012 to start its maiden Asian season. 37,276-gross registered ton Voyager of the Seas also became the first cruise ship to call at the new Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, as well as the largest to homeport in Asia. Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore can accommodate the new generation of larger cruise ships, such as Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis-class ships. It will be a key enabler towards realizing Singapore’s potential as a gateway to cruising in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas (left)  and Legend of the Seas (right)
at Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore.

About Voyager of the Seas 

Known as a "Floating hotel" due to the range of facilities that it offers, along with some world firsts for cruise ships when the ship was launched, Voyager of the Seas can handle up to 3114 guests, and, along with its sisters in the Voyager class, is one of the largest passenger ships in the world.  Voyager features the world's first rock climbing wall (mounted on the funnel) and ice-skating rink at sea.

Royal Caribbean announces 2014 Mediterranean cruises

Liberty of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Splendour of the Seas will sail the Mediterranean to perform 2014 Mediterranean cruises according to a press release by Royal Caribbean International. Royal Caribbean’s 2014 Northern Europe cruises will also be open for booking on March 20, 2013, followed by its Mediterranean cruises on March 28.

Newly renovated Liberty of the Seas will sail round-trip from Barcelona on a seven-night, Western Mediterranean itinerary, calling at Provence (Marseilles) and Nice (Villefranche), France; and Florence/Pisa (La Spezia), Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples/Capri, Italy. The August 10 sailing calls at Cannes, France, instead of Nice. A four-night, round-trip itinerary departing May 14 will offer vacationers a taste of the Freedom-class experience, with a call at Nice and Florence/Pisa. An eastbound trans-Atlantic sailing on May 1 and westbound on Oct. 26, both 13-night itineraries, will bookend Liberty of the Seas’ Europe season.

Navigator of the Seas will homeport at Rome (Civitavecchia) to sail a seven-night Eastern Mediterranean itinerary, which calls at Sicily (Messina), Italy; Athens (Piraeus) and Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece; and Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey. Alternatively, vacationers have a second option to embark on their seven-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise, sailing roundtrip from Sicily (Messina). Additionally, vacationers can choose a 15-night Galveston to Rome or 14-night Barcelona to Galveston trans-Atlantic cruise, sailing May 4 and Nov. 9, respectively.

Liberty of the Seas cruise ship seen in the Port of Miami.

Vacationers also can embark on longer nine- to 12-night Italy, Greek Isles and Turkey cruises from Barcelona from May through August, and Venice from late August through October. From Barcelona, Serenade of the Seas will alternate 12-night Mediterranean Greek Isles and night Mediterranean Venice itineraries the latter featuring an overnight in Venice. From Sept., Serenade of the Seas will homeport in Venice and alternate 10-night Greek Isles and 11-night Greece and Turkey itineraries. Vacationers also can sail into Europe with Serenade of the Seas on a 16-night trans-Atlantic cruise from New Orleans to Barcelona on Apr. 26. Vacationers also can choose a nine-night eastbound sailing from Barcelona to Venice on Aug. 27 and a 10-night westbound return on Oct. 27, takeing guests throughout the Italian Mediterranean and the Adriatic.

For its part, Splendour of the Seas will homeport at Venice for its entire Europe season and alternate seven-night Greek Isles and Greek Isles & Turkey itineraries. The ship will reposition from Sao Paolo, Brazil to Barcelona for a 14-night trans-Atlantic voyage on Apr. 25, and then start its Europe season with an eight-night Italian Mediterranean and Adriatic itinerary from Barcelona to Venice. Splendour of the Seas concludes its Europe season with a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise from Venice to Barcelona on Nov. 15, before returning to Sao Paolo on Nov. 22 on a 15-night westbound trans-Atlantic itinerary.

Legend of the Seas on 7-Night Borneo Explorer Cruise

Royal Caribbean International’s newly revitalised cruise ship Legend of the Seas, called at Puerto Princesa of Philippines for the first time on Tuesday with an official ceremony welcoming her arrival. Legend of the Seas is currently on the 7-Night Borneo Explorer Cruise which started in Singapore and features calls also at Kota Kinabalu and Bandar Seri Begawan.


Ms Marilen Sandejas-Yaptangco, Royal Caribbean International’s Representative in the Philippines said, “We are proud to add yet another destination in the Philippines, and moreover, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to Legend of the Seas’ Asian season for her guests to explore and experience. Our successful call at Puerto Princesa today is the result of the strong effort and support of the Philippines Government in terms of infrastructure building which marks a positive step in cruise development for the country.”

Mr Edward Hagedorn, Mayor of Puerto Princesa, added, “The maiden voyage of Legend of the Seas to Puerto Princesa is historical and we are glad that the visitors can experience the scenic beauty and hospitality of our people which will boost tourism in our country.”

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park with its unspoiled natural beauty is one of top sightseeing sights in Puerto Princesa. It has one of the most impressive caves systems in the world and contains an 8.2 km long underground river that flows directly into the South China Sea.

Legend of the Seas

No trip to Puerto Princesa would be complete either without a visit to the indigenous Batak tribe or island hopping at the famous Honda Bay.

These iconic tourist spots are included in Royal Caribbean’s shore excursions. The Vision-class Legend of the Seas is the most recent ship in the fleet to receive a bow-to-stern revitalization which includes greater culinary options, new entertainment and activities onboard, as well as a refresh of all furniture and staterooms.

On the culinary front, guests can now enjoy popular complimentary and specialty dining options namely Chops Grille, Izumi Asian Cuisine, the exclusive Chef’s Table and Park Café. The reinvented Centrum also features a new high-flying entertainment experience where aerialists glide through the five-storey atrium, and a large LED screen at the poolside is available.

Royal Caribbean International 2014 Alaska cruise and cruisetour season

Royal Caribbean International has just announced its 2014 Alaska cruise and cruisetour season, which will mark 25 years of delivering the magnificence of the Alaskan frontier on land and sea. Recently revitalized Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas will return to Alaskan waters and offer 34 sailings on exciting seven-night itineraries from Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seattle, Washington. On board, guests can enjoy up to 11 dining options, new and breathtaking entertainment, as well as family programming such as the award-winning Adventure Ocean kids and teen program, and the new Royal Babies and Tots Nursery, catering to Royal Caribbean’s youngest guests, age six to 36 months old.

In ports of call, guests can choose from an extensive menu of shore excursions to further explore the untamed Alaskan frontier. At Icy Strait Point, for instance, adventure seeking guests can ride the world’s longest ZipRider zip line – 5,300 ft. long – that accelerates up to 60 miles an hour over a lush forest to the beach 1,300 ft. below, or mush their own dogsled team on Dog Sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter from Juneau. For the whole family, the Gold Rush Sled Dogs & White Pass Train Adventure in Skagway offers an exciting ride on the world-famous, narrowgauge White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, followed by meeting a veteran Iditarod musher and his dogsled team with a chance to pet some pups, or the opportunity to go off-roading through Tongas National Park and canoeing in Lake Harriet Hunt on Backcountry Jeep & Canoe Safari from Ketchikan.

“Royal Caribbean has been unfolding the wonders of the Alaskan frontier for a quarter century and we continue to deliver this amazing destination like no other cruise line,” said Lisa Bauer, executive vice president of Global Marketing and Sales, Royal Caribbean International. “Guests can explore this awe-inspiring destination while sailing aboard our recently revitalized ships that are Designed for WOW and enjoy Royal Caribbean’s friendly and engaging GOLD Anchor service from every staff and crew member. To further immerse themselves, vacationers also can choose an unforgettable Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise tour combining the best of land and sea in the region and without having to worry about any of the planning.”

In addition to witnessing the majesty of Alaska by ship, vacationers also can explore Alaska’s interior on a variety of exciting Royal Caribbean Cruisetours, which combines a sailing aboard Radiance of the Seas with a three- to six-night land tour adventure. Royal Caribbean takes care of all the planning, transportation and lodging on fully escorted tours that spend at least one night in Denali National Park and one leg on the Wilderness Express, a plush, glass-domed train cars that offer panoramic views of the grand Alaskan frontier. A 10-night, family-geared cruisetour will feature a three-night land tour that includes a behind-the-scenes visit to the Alaska Sea Life Center to learn about the region’s natural habitat and the center’s wildlife rehabilitation and conservation efforts, and wildlife spotting in Denali National Park at the Murie Science and Learning Center.

Alaska Cruise Royal Caribbean

Vacationers also can combine a Radiance of the Seas or Rhapsody of the Seas’ Alaska cruise with one of four pre- or post-cruise land tours throughout the Canadian Rockies and – new for 2014 –the Okanagan Wine Valley. For a comprehensive Alaska and the Canadian Rockies adventure, the Ultimate Cruisetour combines both region’s land tour programs with a seven-night cruise aboard Radiance of the Seas for a 19-night grand adventure on land and sea.


Recently revitalized in 2011 and 2012, respectively, Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas now offer guests a range of new dining options, breathtaking entertainment, and contemporary amenities that are Designed for WOW. Each ship now features some of the most popular dining options and amenities that were first introduced aboard the world’s largest and most revolutionary ships, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. New signature concepts aboard these ships include a new dance club experience in the contemporized Viking Crown Lounge. On Rhapsody of the Seas guests are surprised and delighted throughout the day by a series of heart-pounding, aerial-acrobatic entertainment experiences in the four deck-high Centrum which also features the new retro R Bar. Guests enjoy choices from 11 delectable dining options on Radiance of the Seas and nine on Rhapsody of the Seas, including the Park Café gourmet deli, Izumi Asian Cuisine, Giovanni’s Table Italian restaurant, and the exclusive Chef’s Table, some for an additional cover charge. Both ships offer bow-to-stern WiFi service, a refresh of all public spaces and updated staterooms with flat-panel televisions. An oversized LED movie screen overlooking the main pool provides entertainment to guests taking a brisk dip on a warm Alaskan day, and new Concierge and Diamond lounges aboard each ship further recognize Royal Caribbean’s loyal Crown & Anchor Society members and suite guests.


Radiance of the Seas will alternate North- and Southbound seven-night itineraries from Vancouver and Seward, respectively. Guests will cruise the Inside Passage and the monumental Hubbard Glacier, as well as call at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Skagway, Alaska. Radiance of the Seas’ Alaska season will be bookended with a seven-night itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Vancouver on May 9 and Sept. 5, calling at Icy Strait Point, Juneau, and Ketchikan, and cruising up Tracy Arm Fjord to see Sawyer Glacier.


For its part, Rhapsody of the seas will sail seven-night, roundtrip itineraries to Sawyer Glacier from Seattle, Wash. Guests will cruise the Inside Passage and call at Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, British Columbia. Two similar seven-night itineraries that call at Ketchikan instead of Victoria will sail from Vancouver to Seattle on May 16 and vice versa on Aug. 29.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 22 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. Royal Caribbean provides a world-class vacation experience with a wide range of signature onboard amenities, entertainment, and award-winning family programming.

Source : ROYAL CARIBBEAN ANNOUNCES 2014 ALASKA CRUISES AND CRUISETOURS

Royal Caribbean International’s Legend of the Seas completes revitalization for winter season

Royal Caribbean International’s cruise-ship Legend of the Seas has completed its month long $50 million drydock in Singapore and will show off a new array of features and amenities for its remaining Asia season before returning to Europe. The Vision-class Legend of the Seas is the most recent ship in the fleet to receive Oasis-class amenities, extensive upgrades and a bow-to-stern revitalization.

Legend of the Seas will “wow” guests with acclaimed industry enhancements, such as popular specialty
dining, first introduced on Oasis of the Seas, and give diners the choice to expand their palates with Park Café, Chef’s Table, Chops Grille and Izumi Asian Cuisine, along with new spots for an evening cocktail at the 60’s inspired R Bar or Viking Crown Lounge nightclub. Onboard entertainment options now include an outdoor movie screen, perfect for alfresco movie viewing and the addition of aerial entertainment experiences in the Centrum, the main gathering place on the ship. New and updated staterooms, flat-panel TVs, digital signage and bow-to-stern Wi-Fi all add to the contemporary guest experience onboard.

Through March, guests can enjoy the newly revitalizes ship as she sails Southeast Asia itineraries from her Singapore homeport. Itinerary options include: Malaysia (three nights), Southeast Asia (four or five nights), Bangkok and Ko Samui (five nights) and Borneo (seven nights). Beginning in April, the ship will sail a four night Southeast Asia itinerary roundtrip from Singapore and then reposition to Europe for the summer season. It will begin by sailing seven-night Western Mediterranean itineraries roundtrip from Rome.

Royal Caribbean International’s Legend of the Seas is out with new features.

Legend of the Seas divides her 2013 Europe summer between the Italian homeports of Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice. From May through August, the ship will sail a seven-night Western Mediterranean itinerary, calling at Genoa, Italy; Provence (Marseilles), France; and Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca and Valencia, Spain. A nine-night circumnavigation of the Italian peninsula, departing August 31, will bring Legend of the Seas to Venice, where she will offer vacationers 10-night Greek Isles and 11-night Greece and Turkey itineraries in September and October. The ship will then return to the Caribbean to offer Southern Caribbean and Panama Canal sailings.

Making its maiden voyage in May 1995, Legend of the Seas is the first of the Vision Class cruise ships owned by the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. With a gross tonnage of 69,130 GT, the ship can carry 2,074 passengers.

Royal Caribbean Winter 2013-14 Cruise Australia

You know what they say: There is nothing like Australia. Well, there’s also nothing like experiencing Australia with a cruise ship. Royal Caribbean International's winter 2013-14 Australia vacations aboard three of the region’s most innovative cruise ships for a second consecutive season offers exactly this once in a lifetime experience.

Vacationers can choose among 55 sailings that call at 56 beautiful South Pacific ports on 53 distinctive itineraries aboard Voyager of the Seas and the recently revitalized Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas, with departures from Sept. 2013 through April 2014. Vacationers also can choose a Royal Caribbean Australia Cruisetour to couple an escorted land tour with a Royal Caribbean cruise for a grand Outback adventure. Royal Caribbean’s winter 2013-14 Australia cruises and Cruisetours are now open for booking.

“There’s no better way for families and adventurers to experience Australia and New Zealand than with Royal Caribbean,” said Betsy O’Rourke, senior vice president of Marketing for Royal Caribbean International. “Unpack once, visit multiple destinations in this fascinating region and sail aboard the industry’s most innovative ships, where guests enjoy new award-winning dining and exclusive entertainment, and our renowned personal, friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service. Royal Caribbean’s Explorations shore excursions and Cruisetours also will help guests delve deeper into the metropolises and frontiers for an unforgettable Australia adventure.”

The more comprehensive way to experience the best of Australia and New Zealand is on a Royal Caribbean Australia Cruisetour. A cruisetour combines a Royal Caribbean cruise with a pre- or post-cruise escorted land tour to the must-see attractions that lay inland or is restrictive for cruise ships to enter. Guests have opportunities to explore the Great Barrier Reef; come face-to-face with the awesome Ayers Rock; walk Australia’s Great Outback; or delve into New Zealanders culture and landscapes on more than four itineraries, all escorted by a dedicated Royal Caribbean Adventure Specialist who knows what to see and where to go. Royal Caribbean takes care of all the planning, premium hotel accommodations, included activities, all motorcoach and air transportation, select meals, and time for independent exploration and shopping for a stress-free Australia adventure.

Voyager of the Seas will sail from Singapore to Sydney on a 14-night cruise on October 24 2013, which begins with an overnight in Singapore and calls at Kuala Lumpur (Port Keland), Malaysia, and Darwin and Brisbane, Australia. The ship then homeports at Sydney to offer nine sailings to New Zealand, Fiji and New Caledonia, ranging from nine- to 14-night itineraries. A ninenight Tasmania cruise, sailing February 4, 2014, features an overnight at Hobart on this one-time only itinerary. At the end of the season, Voyager of the Seas will sail a spectacular 18-night Australia and New Zealand itinerary to Perth, and return to the Far East on a 14-night sailing on March 27 to Singapore, via Bangkok.

Voyager of the Seas will cruise from Singapore to Sydney on a 14-night cruise on October 24 2013,
which begins with an overnight in Singapore and calls at Kuala Lumpur (Port Keland), Malaysia,
and Darwin and Brisbane, Australia.

Exclusively offering the DreamWorks Experience in the Far East and South Pacific, Voyager of the Seas offers vacationers the most unique and innovative Australia and New Zealand cruise experience. Popular DreamWorks Animation characters, such as Po the Warrior Dragon from Kung Fu Panda, Shrek and Fiona, and Alex the Lion and Gloria the Hippo from Madagascar, will delight guests in Character Breakfasts, themed activities, surprise appearances, and plenty of unforgettable photo opportunities. The ship also is the first among a class of ships that revolutionized the industry by introducing the active cruise vacation, debuting the first onboard ice-skating rink, rock-climbing wall, and the Royal Promenade, an interior boulevard that runs nearly the ship’s length; flanked by restaurants, lounges and boutiques; and where parades and evening street parties are held.

Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas also will be homeported at Sydney from October 2013 to early May 2014, offering vacationers a wide variety of itineraries, ranging from seven to 15 nights to Australia’s Tasmania and Queensland, New Zealand, Fiji and New Caledonia. Radiance of the Seas also will circumnavigate twice around Australia – comprising a 16-night north coast and 17- night south coast and New Zealand sailing each – departing October 24, 2013 and February 14, 2014. Trans-Pacific crossings between Vancouver, B.C. and Sydney bookend both ship’s winter 2013-14 Australia season, comprising a 12-night Hawaii and a 16- or 17-night South Pacific sailing, departing September 13, 2013 and April 10, 2014 aboard Radiance of the Seas, and September 6, 2013 and April 18, 2014 aboard Rhapsody of the Seas.

In between exciting ports of call, just-revitalized Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas offer guests a wide spectrum of the most contemporary dining and entertainment options. Referred to as the culinary ship, Radiance of the Seas was revitalized in 2011 to offer eight restaurants – Park Café, Boardwalk Dog House, Chef’s Table, Giovanni’s Table, Izumi, Rita’s Cantina, Samba Grille and main dining room – and the new Quill & Compass Pub.

Rhapsody of the Seas features a new high-flying Centrum entertainment experience, where aerialists glide through the five-story atrium as guests enjoy a cocktail in the new 60’s-themed R Bar on the ground floor. In the evenings, guests can catch a small bite in a chic new Viking Crown Lounge, offering a cutting-edge, modern dance club atmosphere. Both ships also newly feature an oversized LED video screen overlooking the main pool, the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery, bow-to-stern WiFi service, and completely refreshed staterooms with new flat-panel interactive TVs, and a Concierge Lounge and Diamond Club for suite and Crown & Anchor Society member guests.

Younger guests can join in informative and entertaining programming from morning to late night in the cruise line’s award-winning Adventure Ocean and Kids program. College-accredited counselors lead kids in stimulating activities designed for five age groups, 3-5, 6-9, 10-13, and 14-17 years, where teens have their own dedicated space to hang out with peers.