Spotlight on Carnival Cruise Lines

With architecture, themes and sensory delights such as music, scents and lights, it’s no wonder Carnival calls it’s fleet of 21 ships the Fun Ships.

“The restaurants are designed to make you feel like you’re dining in Paris one night, Rome the next and Las Vegas the next then dancing the night away in Rio at out-of-this-world clubs designed to take you to the hottest cultures on the globe.”

Aboard a Carnival Cruise Ship, you can have just about as much fun, entertainment and sheer indulgence as you can stand. With a fleet of 21 Fun Ships, each with its own theme, design, tastes, scents, smells and activities, Carnival Cruise Lines offers a wide array of amenities, prices and destinations.

On board, you can choose from such activities as golf lessons, art auctions, gallery garage sales, theme parties and dinners, calypso parties, piano bars, happy hour, karaoke, Broadway style shows, comedy shows, live orchestras, full service spa and fitness center, temporary body art, teeth whitening, pools, water slides, casinos, ping pong, silly contests, Austin Powers dance lessons and bingo – just to name a few!

Carnival heads to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful and exciting destinations on earth.

• Alaska
• Bahamas
• Caribbean
• Europe
• Hawaii
• Mexico
• Panama Canal
• Special Voyages to Bermuda and the “Cruise to Nowhere”
• Transatlantic Cruises

The Shore Excursions take place at fascinating ports across the globe! Visit the Caribbean for Island Beach Break, Ocho Rios Highlights and Rainforest Explorations. Head to the Mexican Riviera for Sail and Snorkel excursions, Beach Adventures and the Sierra Madre Tour. Head on up to Alaska for a 4x4 Jeep and Canoe Trek, Juneau Gold Mine Tour and Gold Fever Adventure. Indulge in European adventure with the Venice Masterpieces Tour, Medieval Luca Tour and the Gaudi and Bracelona Adventure.

Looking for the Fun Ship that’s right for you? Here’s an overview of what Carnival has to offer.

Carnival Conquest - This ship is “110 tons of floating fun” with 1,487 staterooms, 60% with ocean views and 60% of those have private balconies. 2,974 guest capacity and 1,150 total crew. 110 tons, 953 feet.

Carnival Destiny – After a multi-million dollar refurbishment, this ship has three pools, a plethora of bars and eateries, casino, duty-free shop. With 1,321 staterooms, 480 of those have private balconies. 3,360 guest capacity with 1,040 crew. 101 tons, 892 feet.

Carnival Glory – This Fun Ship has extra-spacious staterooms with 60% ocean views and 60% of those have private balconies. The four pools, seven whirlpools and a 214-foot waterslide will help wash your cares away in no time! 2,974 guest capacity with 1,150 crew. 110 tons, 953 feet.

Carnival Legend – This sleeker, faster ship allows guests to experience a 10-day itinerary in just 8 days! 80% of staterooms feature ocean views and 80% of those have private balconies. 2,124 guest capacity with 930 crew. 88+ tons, 963 feet.

Carnival Liberty – This ship is known as the four floating resorts with an abundance of bars, clubs, restaurants and duty-free shopping options. Setting sail for Europe, Carnival provides an online European Brochure (http://www.carnival.com/Ship_Detail.aspx?shipCode=LI ) that you can page through and bookmark your favorite attractions! 2,974 guest capacity with 1,160 crew. 110 tons, 952 feet.

Carnival Miracle – Sailing from New York City, this Fun Ship is well known for it’s 11-story atrium with a ruby red glass ceiling. 80% of the staterooms have ocean views and 80% of those have private balconies. 2,124 guest capacity with 934 crew. 88+ tons, 963 feet.

Carnival Pride – This dazzling ship boasts 80% of ocean view staterooms with 80% of those having private balconies. Choose from a wide variety of lounges, bars and restaurants plus live entertainment and fun theme nights. 70% of the staterooms have private balconies. 2,124 guest capacity with 930 crew. 88+ tons, 963 feet.

Carnival Spirit – This innovative SuperLiner features a two-level promenade and a Reservations-Only Supper Club. Cutting through the water at a great speed, the Carnival Spirit is perfect for itineraries such as Hawaii and Alaska. 80% of her staterooms have ocean views and 80% of those have private balconies. 2,124 guest capacity with 930 crew. 88+ tons, 960 feet.

Carnival Triumph – Known for its Great Cities Of the World theme, this ship makes every cruise feel like a trip around the world. The restaurants are designed to make you feel like you’re dining in Paris one night, Rome the next and Las Vegas the next then dancing the night away in Rio at out-of-this-world clubs designed to take you to the hottest cultures on the globe. 2,758 guest capacity with 1,100 crew. 101 tons, 893 feet.

Carnival Valor – Based in Miami, this proud ship featuring endless entertainment options, duty-free shopping, Spa Carnival and an enormous mural of Rosie the Riveter to personify the ship’s name; Valor. 2,974 guest capacity with 1,180 crew. 110 tons, 953 feet.

Carnival Victory – Boasting a 9-story, Seven Seas Atrium, four swimming pools, a wide variety of dining options, endless entertainment, friendly casino and state-of-the-art, full-service spa, it’s no wonder Carnival calls this ship Victory. Of the 1,379 staterooms, 480 have private balconies. 2,758 guest capacity with 1,100 crew. 101 tons, 893 feet.

Celebration – With a name like celebration, this just has to be a non-stop party! Restaurants and lounges feature such fun, feel-good themes as Endless Summer, Red Hot Piano, Islands in the Sky and more. This relatively small ship has 10 decks and 743 staterooms with 10 private balconies. 1,486 guest capacity with 670 crew. 48 tons, 733 feet.

Ecstasy / Elation – Specializing in 3-4 day getaways, the Ecstasy / Elation offers two pools with whirlpools, snack bars, formal and casual restaurants and lounges, plenty of entertainment and a unique City Lights Boulevard for evening strolls on deck. 2,053 guest capacity with 920 crew. 54 of the staterooms have balconies. 70 tons, 855 feet.

Elation – With features such as teak-planked decks, three swimming pools, friendly casinos and high-energy nightlife, you’ll know why this ship is named Elation. Of the 1,021 staterooms, 54 have private balconies. 2,052 guest capacity with 920 crew. 70 tons, 855 feet.

Fantasy – Specializing in 3-4 day getaways to the Bahamas, this ship makes it easy to pack a bag and get away from it all. The ship features a wide variety of Total Choice dining options and 1,026 staterooms with 54 private balconies. 2,056 guest capacity with 920 crew. 70 tons, 855 feet.

Fascination – Specializing in 3-4 day excursions, this ship offers 10 decks with 1,026 staterooms, 54 of those have private balconies. 2,052 guest capacity with 920 crew. 70 tons, 855 feet.

Holiday – This ship feature a variety of themed public lounges and recreation spaces including Rick’s Café – an intimate piano bar inspired by the watering hole from Casablanca, Reflections – a sizzling dance club with state of the art sound and lighting, Doc Holiday’s country western lounge, Americana Lounge, Carnegie Library and more. 743 staterooms, 10 with balconies. 46 tons, 728 feet.

Imagination – Renaissance-style architecture accented with neon lights and cascading spheres create an out-of-this world look and feel and the restaurants and lounges named Mirage, Shangri La, Illusions, Xanadu and Curiosity further contribute to the nether land feel of Imagination. 2,052 guest capacity with 920 staff. 70 tons, 855 feet.

Inspiration – Lounges and public recreation areas with names such as Shakespeare, Monte Carlo, Chopin, Rhapsody and Avante Garde provide places for rest, relaxation and inspiration. Of the 1,026 staterooms, 54 have balconies. 2,052 guest capacity with 920 crew. 70 tons, 855 feet.

Paradise – Public lounges, recreation areas and casinos such as Elation, Destiny, Normandie, Leonardo and Magestic take you away from the monotony of every day life and into Paradise. Of the 1,026 staterooms, 54 have balconies. 2,052 guest capacity with 920 crew. 70 tons, 855 feet.

Sensation – Beautiful décor, delightful aromatherapy, Total Choice dining and exciting sounds throughout the ship make this ship a relaxing, indulgent and total sensory adventure. the 1,026 staterooms, 54 have balconies. 2,052 guest capacity with 920 crew. 70 tons, 855 feet.

For more information on departures, prices and availability, go to Carnival’s website at http://www.carnival.com/.

About Those Seasonal Discounts...

Off-season sailings are always less expensive and less crowded, with a more “mature” clientele. The phrase “off season” is not congregated in one time of the year. For certain sailings, such as Alaska and the arctic regions, the season only lasts a few months. There are sometimes several seasons within one season. For Alaska sailings, the beginning and end of the season are possible times to sail. For other itineraries, such as those going to places like the Amazon, where it’s too hot or rainy most of the year, opportunities for savings are slight due to the shortened sailing season. Transatlantic sailings are often discounted when ships are repositioning, say from Europe back to the US and vice versa. Don’t forget that there are reasons why off-season travel is discounted. In most cases the reasons are weather related—it’s too hot, cold or rainy for the average traveler.

Tips for Passengers with Disabilities

Officially, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) does not apply to cruise lines. Most ships are not subject to adherence and regulation with U.S. construction and design laws. However, most cruise lines, including RCCL Celebrity, Carnival, Princess and Norwegian Cruise Lines make special accommodations for individuals with disabilities. RCCL and Celebrity, for example, have specially designed staterooms with wider doors, level entrances and wheelchair accessible showers. Be sure to check with your travel agent about a cruise line’s rules regarding passengers with physical disabilities—they do have the right to refuse passage to anyone they deem could be a hazard to other passengers. Travelers who require service animals also should verify rules regarding such situations. RCCL and Celebrity allow approved service animals for the visually impaired. Pregnant women have special consideration and may be considered a person with a disability and denied passage should she be in advanced stages of pregnancy.

Tips for Staying Healthy on Your Cruise

Nothing spoils a good trip like a trip to the infirmary.

We’ve all heard stories on the news about Norwalk Virus. What you may not know is that it’s more common than you think and you don’t contract it the way most commonly thought. Unless an outbreak of Norwalk Virus reaches an epidemic level (around 200 people) it does not have to be reported. Most sailings encounter at least one instance of the illness, however passengers do not contract the disease from a bite of bad food. Instead they contract it from other passengers who were previously exposed to the virus and brought it on to the ship. The incubation period for symptoms is 48 hours, which explains why a sick person could board the ship and then think he or she got sick on board. By that point this individual would have come into contact with other passengers and an outbreak occurs. If you feel nauseous or are experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, it is best if you do not board the ship. Most cruise lines are more than willing to offer a credit or a refund if you arrive at the port and report these symptoms. Even though it’s no fun to miss your vacation, it’s also no fun to spend it in the infirmary or be escorted off the ship.

With upwards of 500+ meals served in one sitting, food poisoning can happen, though it is rare. The Centers for Disease Control monitors hygiene and sanitation conditions on ships and in their kitchens, however these inspections only occur twice a year and are voluntary. You can go to CDC website and search for participating cruise lines’ scores at http://www2.cdc.gov/nceh/vsp/vspmain.asp.

Food has long since been a focal point of cruises for many travelers. While many cruise lines have added healthier options to their menus, there still are plenty of folks who enjoy a hearty steak and potatoes laden with rich sauces. Cruising attracts people from all walks of life, including many senior citizens who may experience severe heartburn or indigestion, which can be confused with chest pains and other serious symptoms. If you know you are prone to heartburn and indigestion or have other health-related sensitivities, consult your physician prior to your cruise for vaccinations (if traveling to an exotic location such as Southeast Asia or Africa) and for travel recommendations. If you have a health condition, let your cabin attendant, chief purser, server captain and ship doctor know about them, as well as medications that you need in case you are unresponsive. Many newer, large ships have helicopter landing pads in the event of a serious health emergency that cannot be addressed by the ship’s medical staff.

Heat stroke and sunburn are other safety concerns on boards cruise ships. It’s easy to fall asleep poolside in a comfortable lounge chair with the sun kissing your skin. But too much sun exposure can leave you wishing you’d stayed in your stateroom. To beat the heat but still have a good time, get up and walk around, go inside periodically and stay hydrated. Load up on sunscreen and use it. Another danger on board that many people don’t think about are rolled ankles from jogging, climbing the rock wall or from a drunken stumble. Be sure to follow on board safety guidelines and common sense. Don’t brave the rock wall after you’ve spent half the day in the cocktail lounge swigging Long Island Ice Teas.

Your Complete Guide to Luxury Cruises

When you’ll settle for nothing but the finest cuisine, superior services and sumptuous amenities in a cruise line; go luxury all the way!

“It’s all about the details. When it comes to luxury cruises, the exceptional, exorbitant, richly indulgent details make all the difference in the world.”

Cruises, by their very nature, are indulgent and luxurious, right? So, what’s the difference between a cruise and a Luxury Cruise? First, the level of luxury is determined by the ratio of crew members to number of passengers. Generally, a rating of 1.0 or higher indicates the highest level of service available. That translates into more people to dote on you and serve you. Now that’s luxurious! But that’s not all! Because luxury also has to do with spacious quarters and a certain level of privacy, the second determining factor is the space ratio – the more space available to each passenger, the more luxurious the cruise. Most luxury cruises feature staterooms that are larger than the average cruise line, with at least 180 square feet in which to relax, indulge and play.

Then there are the amenities… ah, the luxurious amenities! When it comes to luxury cruises, it’s the special, exorbitant, richly indulgent details that make all the difference in the world. Staterooms include many of the same accommodations as four- and five-star resorts. Take in the gorgeous décor, as you stretch out on your large, blissfully plush bed. Most rooms include exceptional views, TV/VCR, a high-end audio system, refrigerator, wet bar, valet service and many even offer private verandas. Most cruise lines are known for offering a never-ending supply of food and drink. But luxury cruises offer an abundance of sumptuous, gourmet cuisine with decadent dining ambiance taking your experience above and beyond that of traditional cruise lines. And most luxury cruises visit exotic destinations such as Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Mediterranean, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal, Northern Europe, South America and World Cruises.

There are several cruise lines that offer luxury cruises. But let’s review some of the top-rated luxury lines to give you an idea of the various amenities and destinations available.

Crystal Cruise Lines
Named “World’s Best Large Ship Cruise Line” by Travel and Leisure Magazine and Conde’ Nast Traveler, the six-star rated ships include the 940-guest, 50,000-ton Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony and the 1,080-guest, 68,000-ton Crystal Serenity. Crystal Cruise Line was also recognized for highest rankings in service, food, stateroom accommodations and entertainment. These ships are among the largest, most luxurious in the world offering exquisite and spacious staterooms, specialty cuisine, Feng Shui Spa, gym, a Creative Learning Institute, Computer University, 24-hour internet access, Broadway-style entertainment, junior activities programs, crystal wine and food festivals and a Caesars Palace at Sea Casino.
http://www.crystalcruises.com/

Cunard Cruise Lines
Over160 years ago, Cunard established itself by offering the first steam ships of integrity and style. Today, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth 2 follow the same tradition of luxury and grace complete with indulgent, modern day accommodations. Queen Mary 2 is known as the world’s largest, tallest and grandest ocean liner ever. At 151,400 tons, she carries 2,620 passengers and 1,253 crew members. The ships amenities include polished teak decks, elegant soirees and gourmet dining, wine bar, Royal Court Theatre, the world renowned Canyon Ranch Spa Club, state-of-the-art gym, planetarium, wine tasting seminars, Maritime Quest Historical Exhibit, an athletic field, reality golf, basketball court and book shop – to name a few.
http://www.cunard.com/OnBoard/

Radisson Seven Seas
Travel in six-star luxury and experience the world’s great adventures where “Luxury Goes Exploring” on the small to mid-size Radisson Seven Seas Cruise Ships. Admire and experience nature at an intimate level from a ship that respects the world’s delicate ecosystem. Luxurious staterooms offer picture-window views, private balconies, dine-in sitting rooms and impeccable service. The Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner offer all-suite, all-balcony accommodations with 700-guest capacity. The smaller Seven Seas Navigator welcomes 490 guests with 90% balconies from the all-suite accommodations. The smallest and most intimate ship, Paul Guaguin, was designed especially for sailing enthusiasts complete with windsurfing from its own private marina. This ship imitates the feeling of relaxed luxury of the islands blended with six-star luxury.
http://www.rssc.com/ships/?sblid=ships

ResidenSea Luxury Vacation Residences
The only ocean resort circumnavigating the four corners of the earth, The World Ship offers the luxury of yacht ownership combined with relaxed, quiet comfort a warm, inviting community and all the luxuries of the finest resorts. The friendliness, superior service and quality of life aboard this cruise ship of apartments, is unparalleled. And, this is a lifestyle and a community – with a lively mix of vacationers and crew, building relationships and enjoying each other’s company. Dine on board and on shore at the finest restaurants in the world, visit museums, the opera and shops ashore. Take in natural wonders across the globe as you visit mountains, reefs, deserts, icebergs and the most magnificent beaches known to mankind. If you’re considering vacation ownership, this unique lifestyle is one to consider. There are also vacation rental opportunities if you wan to check it out and see if this type of vacation lifestyle is for you.
http://www.aboardtheworld.com/defaultpage121bc0.aspx?pageID=36

Seabourn Cruise Line
Climb aboard and explore the world from these small, 208-guest, ultra-luxurious yacht-like ships; the Seabourn Pride, Seabourn Spirit and Seabourn Legend. Rated among the top cruise lines in the world and among the premiere vacation destinations of any type, you can count on superior, personalized service, elegant and spacious accommodations with a home-away-from-home feel, walk-in closets, balconies from most suites and a selection of classic, double or owner’s suites. In addition to the amazing suite accommodations, the exquisite cuisine that rivals the finest restaurants in the world, premium wine selection, the Spa at Seabourn and visiting the ports of a number of exotic destinations set this cruise line apart from the rest.
http://www.seabourn.com/OurShips/default.asp?Main=OurShips&Sec=accomm

If you’ve thought about taking a cruise and you enjoy being pampered and living in the lap of luxury, choose a cruise line that can offer your five-star accommodations and exotic destinations for lifelong memories of grandiose proportions.