Friday, November 16, 2012

Nov 16 2012 Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
November 16, 2012

Good Friday Morning

Soul Train, Smooth Jazz, Malt Shop, Halloween , Country Music and Celtic Thunder Cruise
Don’t delay and contact me today.  Cabins are sailing fast on these special music theme cruises. 

Royal Caribbean allows guests to bring aboard their own wine
Royal Caribbean International has changed a long-standing policy that prevented guests from bringing their own alcoholic beverages on a cruise.  Previously, passengers were not allowed to bring any sort of beverage on the cruise, and alcoholic beverages seized on embarkation day were not returned to guests.

The new policy allows for two 750-milliliter bottles of wine per cabin. The wine can be consumed in a guest cabin or on a balcony without charge. If the wine is consumed in a public space, there will be a $25 corkage fee. The policy requires that the wine bottles must retain the original manufacturer’s seals and exhibit no signs of tampering.  If a guest brings more than two bottles, the additional bottles will be secured by ship personnel and returned just prior to the end of the cruise, Royal Caribbean said.


Princess Cruises® first charity cruise — Cruising for a Cause: U.S. Veterans
This 4-day cruise departing November 5, 2013 from Galveston, Texas will raise funds for two charities committed to supporting the U.S. Armed Forces.  A portion of your cruise fare ranging from $100 to $300 per person, depending on stateroom category, will be evenly donated on your behalf to two Section 501(c)(3) exempt public charities, The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Inc., which preserves the legacy of fallen soldiers from the Vietnam War, and Operation Homefront Inc., which provides emergency financial support and other assistance to families of veterans and wounded warriors. Princess Cruises will match every dollar of these donations, up to $500,000, to contribute to these very important organizations. If you join me, Princess Cruises will provide you with a written acknowledgment of your charitable contribution for your tax records

 
Royal Caribbean to offer legal weddings at sea
Royal Caribbean said it will offer valid weddings at sea for the first time after a new law enabling the change was enacted in the Bahamas.  Previously, couples seeking to be married could go through a ceremonial wedding that would not be legally recognized. The procedure would have to be repeated in port or in another land venue to be binding.

Under the newly passed Marriage Act, the Bahamas allows for marriages in international waters outside the 12-mile territorial limits of any nation.  Royal Caribbean has a Romance at Sea package that includes the wedding ceremony, flowers, cake, music and other amenities. It is complimentary when the wedding party books 12 or more cabins on a cruise of 5 days or longer


"Dancing with the Stars" debuts on Holland America Line
Holland America Line has announced a new "Dancing with the Stars" cruise experience.  Six theme cruises in 2013 and early 2014 will feature "Dancing with the Stars" events including dance lessons; a chance to meet the dancers, ask questions and take photos; and a production starring celebrities and the famed dance pros, complete with costumes and routines from the TV show.

The "Dancing with the Stars" theme cruises are: Feb. 16, 2013 ms Eurodam 7-day Eastern Caribbean, ;Jun. 22, 2013 ms Veendam 7-day Canada & New England; Jun. 30 and Jul. 7, 2013 ms Oosterdam 7-dayAlaska; Jan. 5, 2014 Nieuw Amsterdam 7-day Eastern Caribbean; and Jan. 12, 2014 ms Nieuw Amsterdam 7-day Western Caribbean.


In addition to the theme cruises, every sailing on all 15 ships in the Holland America Line fleet will feature an exclusive "Dancing with the Stars" program including dance lessons and an opportunity for guests to dance center stage in an onboard dance-off performance. These activities will feature the ships' professional dancers and will be developed in collaboration with the show's dancers and choreographers.


Princess Cruises to Set Sail From Port of Houston Cruise Terminal
Princess Cruises will launch new service from the Port of Houston beginning in 2013 when it starts sailing from the state-of-the-art Bayport Cruise Terminal. Princess and the Port of Houston Authority confirmed an agreement Nov. 15 for the line to make passenger cruise calls during the 2013-14 cruise season at the port’s cruise facility. The new service is scheduled to begin in November 2013. A total of 26 departures are planned for the season.

The inaugural cruise is a sailing aboard the Caribbean Princess to support U.S. veterans. The cruise, which will sail between Nov. 5 and Nov. 9, is expected to raise $1 million for two U.S. veterans organizations, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) and Operation Homefront

Princes Cruises Onboard Credit for Active & Retired Military Personnel

Princess Cruises® would like to thank the brave men and women of the American and Canadian military for their service.  On every sailing, Princess offers an onboard credit of up to $250 per person to both active and retired military personnel.*

Use this credit to take home professional photos from onboard photographers, or treat yourself to a variety of gifts in the boutiques.  You can also use your onboard credit for a great-tasting meal in one of the specialty restaurants, such as Sabatini’s.SM Or use the onboard credit to indulge in a relaxing massage or rejuvenating treatment at the Lotus Spa.®

Onboard credit amount per person:*
6 days or less   $50 per person
7–13 days         $100 per person
14+ days          $250 per person
On behalf of Princess Cruises, thank you for your service.

*Offer is valid for eligible military personnel in the U.S. and Canada only. Maximum of two onboard credit offers per stateroom. This offer cannot be used for casino credits/charges and gratuities, discretionary hotel and dining charges. Offer excludes Travel Agent and Interline fares. Offer is combinable with other Onboard Credit offers. Other restrictions may apply.
Eligibility includes active military, retired military and disable military veterans with proper verification as outlined below.
Please ensure that documentation provided has any Social Security Number crossed out.
a. Active personnel currently serving in the following service divisions:
i - United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard or Reserves with a copy of a military verification certificate confirming active duty status available for free online at http”//www.defense.gov/faq.
ii - Canadian National Defense — NDI 20 – Canadian Forces Identification Card
b. Retired Personnel defined as A) enlisted personnel or officers with a minimum of 20 years of service, B) medically retired, or C) 100% disabled. Proper identification for United States is a BLUE or TAN Uniformed Identification Card. For Canadians, NDI 75 – Record of Service Identification Card or CF 75 or certificate of discharge; is used.
c. Veterans with an Honorable Discharge serving a minimum of 2 years or 6 months in an active war zone in any of the United States service divisions listed above or in the Canadian National Defense.
Proper identification in the form of a DD 214, plus a current photo ID is required. For Canadians, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) Health Identification Card is used.  Promotion code: ZMB

Thought for the Month
Wishing everyone a happy and blessed Thanksgiving holiday season. 

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant

 

Monday, October 22, 2012

Oct 22 12 - Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
October 25, 2012


A New Survey By Kayak Reveals the Best Time to Book Flights

Looking to save the most money on your next plane ticket? A new survey by flight search engine Kayak.com says the lowest domestic flights can be found 21 days before your date of departure—make that 34 days before your departure date for international flights. Domestic airfares found within two weeks of departure increased by five percent, and were 30 percent higher one week before the departure date. The international airfares found 34 days prior to departure were four percent lower than flights booked six months earlier than the departure date.

The new findings come from compiling and analyzing one year's worth of search results data from an average of 100 million flight searches per month. Here's something counterintuitive; The results suggest that you should NOT book domestic flights too early, as those reserved six months before the departure date were 19 percent higher, and flights found five months ahead were 18 percent higher than flights booked 21 days before departure.

Which days of the week you fly also make a difference. When booking domestic flights that are up to one week long, Kayak found that the lowest-priced fares depart on Saturday and return on Wednesday, while flights longer than one week that depart on Tuesday and return on the following Wednesday have the lowest-priced fares. For international flights up to one week long, Kayak recommends departing on Tuesday and returning on the following Wednesday, or departing on either Friday or Saturday and returning the following Monday—for trips longer than one week, try departing on Saturday and returning the following Sunday, or aim for the second-cheapest set of airfares by returning on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday.


Thought for the Month
Enjoy today because tomorrow is not promised to you.

Wishing you a great weekend

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant

 

Friday, October 19, 2012

Oct 19, 2012 - Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
October 19, 2012

Good Friday Morning


Celebrity Cruises West Coast Sailings
4 nights, Apr 18 – 22, 2013
Round-trip San Diego to Santa Barbara, Catalina Island, and Ensenada

Inside Stateroom from $349*
Oceanview Stateroom from $398*
Veranda Stateroom from $497*
Concierge Class Veranda from $546*

Book by Nov 15, 2012 for $50 onboard credit* ($75 for Captain's Club members)

5 nights, Apr 22 – 27, 2013
Round-trip San Diego to Santa Barbara, San Francisco, and Ensenada

Inside Stateroom from $399*
Oceanview Stateroom from $448*
Veranda Stateroom from $547*
Concierge Class Veranda from $596*

 Book by Nov 15, 2012 for $50 onboard credit* ($75 for Captain's Club members)

5 nights, Apr 27 – May 5, 2013
San Diego to Santa Barbara, Monterey, San Francisco (overnight), Astoria, Victoria, Vancouver

Oceanview Stateroom from $749*
Verandah Stateroom from $1.099*
Concierge Class Veranda Stateroom from $1,198*

Book by Nov 15, 2012 for $50 onboard credit* ($75 for Captain's Club members)

*Offers expire November 15, 2012. All fares are per person in U.S.D., based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Onboard credit is per stateroom. Airfare and related fees and cruise taxes & fees are additional. Celebrity Cruises reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement of up to $10 per guest per day on all guests if the price of West Texas Intermediate Fuel exceeds $65 per barrel. Ships’ Registry: Malta. Worldview Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance. We reserve the right to correct errors or omissions.  CST 1008676-10

Celebrate the Season with Disney Cruise Line
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season November 2012 through early January 2013 onboard the Disney Cruise Line® ships and at Disney's Castaway Cay.

The festive events and activities onboard include:
• A tree-lighting ceremony in the atrium lobby, where "snow" magically falls
• Character "meet and greets" in appropriate holiday attire
• International holiday caroling by Crew members from around the world
• Special family time - families get together to design and decorate their own gingerbread houses.
• Classic holiday story time

The festive events and activities at Disney's Castaway Cay include:
• Castaway Cay transformed into a Magical Wonderland with “snow” flurries, a Christmas Tree, Mr. and Mrs. Snowman (with shell noses and tropical shirts)
• Carolers
• The island's tram decorated to resemble a reindeer, complete with antlers and tail


 Royal Caribbean expands dining-room menu, food options
Royal Caribbean International is revamping the menu offered in its main dining cabins to include fresh ingredients, international flavors, and gluten- and lactose-free options.

Breakaway Inaugural sailings
This is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be one of the first to cruise aboard Norwegian Breakaway on her May 12, 2013 inaugural sailing to Bermuda.  Norwegian Breakaway is the newest, largest and most luxurious ship to sail from New York year round.  You will  enjoy:
 

The legendary Rockettes® are godmothers to Norwegian Breakaway and two will be on board the inaugural sailing and the first sailing every month to take part in fitness classes, photo opportunities, meet and greets and more
Restaurants by Iron Chef, Geoffrey Zakarian
The most Broadway shows at sea, including Rock of Ages, Burn the Floor and Cirque Dreams and Dinner Jungle Fantasy
An amazing Aqua Park with multi-story waterslides
A Sports Complex with the largest ropes course at sea
The Waterfront — an open-air promenade of dining, shopping and nightlife
678 Ocean Place — a first-of-its-kind entertainment destination at sea
The unprecedented freedom and flexibility of Freestyle Cruising®

Norwegian Breakaway's inaugural sailing is filling up fast, so call me to book.


Thought for the Month
Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward. --Victor Kiam, American businessman


Wishing you a great weekend

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant

 

Friday, October 12, 2012

Oct 12 2012 - Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
October 12, 2012

Good Friday Morning

Royal Caribbean WOW Sale – Oct 15-17, 2012
UP TO $200* TO SPEND ONBOARD + 50% REDUCED DEPOSIT
Go where the sea can take you, which is just about everywhere. Between October 15 - 17 and call me to reserve any cruise departing January 1, 2013, or later to enjoy up to $200* to spend onboard plus a 50% reduced deposit

LIMITED-TIME OFFER DETAILS:
Cruise Length             Onboard Credit           Reduced Deposit
3 to 5 nights                $50 per stateroom                    $50
6 to 9 nights                $100 per stateroom                  $125
10 + nights                  $200 per stateroom                  $225
                                                                                                                      

* The 50% reduced deposit can also be applied via any automated booking tool (Cruisematch®, Sabre, Amadeus, Galileo or Wordspan). However, the booking confirmation will not reflect the reduced deposit amount due. The WOW Sale Onboard Credit and 50% Reduced Deposit offer are applicable to all Royal Caribbean International® cruises that sail on or after January 1, 2013 including cruisetours. Offer applies to new FIT bookings with required deposit only and is not applicable to groups. Offer applies to all categories available. All bookings must be made and the required deposit must be paid by October 17, 2012, by 11:59 pm Local Time to qualify for the promotion. Bookings made on October 15, 16, or 17, 2012 without required deposit will not qualify for this offer. Offer is combinable with LAF and restricted rates (Seniors, Residents, Military). Offer is not combinable with any other offer or promotion, including, but not limited to, Interline, Travel Agent, and Net Rates, Crown & Anchor Discounts, Shareholder Benefits or Next Cruise offers, promotions, or benefits. Offer is valid for Cruisetour packages but not combinable with other Cruisetours Onboard Credits. Cruisetour packages receive the OBC based upon the length of the Cruisetour. Onboard credit is in U.S. dollars, has no cash value, is not redeemable for cash, is not transferable and will expire if not used by 10:00 pm on the last evening of the cruise. In the event that a guest has more than one applicable offer for the same sailing, guest can choose the offer he or she wishes to apply. Offer is available in the United States and Canada. Any existing booking that is cancelled between October 8 and 17, 2012 and is rebooked for the same sailing on October 15, 16, or 17, 2012 will not be eligible to receive the offer. Any eligible reservation that is cancelled and is reinstated or changes the ship or sail date after October 17, 2012 will not be eligible to receive the offer. Onboard Credit will be applied to qualified booking by Royal Caribbean International® within 4 weeks of the Sale. The 50% reduced deposit and onboard credit offer is applicable to on-line bookings; however, the on-line booking confirmation will not reflect this reduced deposit or onboard credit. Subject to availability. Prices are per person, cruise only, based on double occupancy and in US dollars. Certain restrictions may apply. Government taxes and fees are additional. Offer may be withdrawn at any time.

Royal Caribbean Sale
From October 21 - 28, 2012, book any 7-night or longer 2013 Europe or Transatlantic sailing and receive up to $100 to spend onboard!*
 

 

Stateroom Category                              Onboard Credit
Inside Or Outside Stateroom                 $50 Per Stateroom
Balcony Or Suite Stateroom                  $100 Per Stateroom

Princess Cruises 3 & 4 Day West Coast Getaways
That’s right, starting September 2013, Princess will offer 3 &4 day sailings from Los Angeles.  If you would like to sail with my group, please let me know so we can secure your cabin.

3-Day (Los Angeles, Ensenada, day at sea, Los Angeles)
October 4, 7, 18, 21 - 2013
November 1, 4, 15, 18, 21, 24 - 2013
December 1 - 2013
January 13 - 2014

4-Day ( Los Angeles, Catalina or Santa Barbara or San Diego, Ensenada, at sea, LA)
September 26 & 30 - 2013
October 10, 14, 24, 28 - 2013
November 7, 11, 27 - 2013
January 16 - 2014


Spirit Airlines will begin charging $100 for carry-on bags in November
If they belong to the club you will pay $25 for a carry-on. Others will be charged $35 online, $40 over the phone, $50 at the airport ticket counter and $100 if they get all the way to the gate before declaring their carry-on.

Norwegian Cruise Line scraps Egypt calls
Norwegian Cruise Line will drop scheduled port calls in Egypt on its 10- and 11-day cruises from Nov. 21 to April 17.   Norwegian Jade’s 10-day cruise will now call in Istanbul and Naples, and the 11-day cruise will call in Crete and Naples.

Azamara Club Cruises West Coast Voyages
12 night sea of cortez/copper canyon – Jan 29 – Feb 10, 2014

Mazatlan, Mexico - La Paz, Mexico - Topolobampo, Mexico - Guaymas, Mexico - Loreto, Mexico - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Los Angeles

8 Night Coastal California – Feb 10-18, 2014
Santa Barbara - Monterey - San Francisco - Ensenada, Mexico - Los Angeles

14 Night rout of the america – Feb 18 – Mar 4, 2014
Los Angeles - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Manzanillo. Mexico - Ixtapa (Zihuatanejo), Mexico - Huatulco, Mexico - Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala - Acajutla, El Salvador - San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua - Caldera, Costa Rica

Thought for the Month
"How strange that nature does not knock, and yet does not intrude!"- Emily Dickinson
 

Wishing you a great weekend

 

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant

 

Friday, October 5, 2012

Oct 5 2012 - Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
October 5, 2012

Good Friday Morning

12 Cruises to Match Your Musical Tastes
The Smooth Jazz Cruise                                 
Jan.13-20, 2013                               
Jan. 20-27, 2013                              
Oct. 12-19, 2013
Jan. 11-18, 2014
The Jazz Cruise

Jan 27 - Feb 2, 2103
Jan 25-Feb 1, 2014
Soul Train Cruise
Feb 17-24, 2013
Oct 5-12, 2013
Malt Shop Memories Cruise                           
Oct. 27 – Nov. 2, 2013                                 
Ship of Fear  
Oct 28-Nov 2, 2013
Celtic Thunder Cruise
Nov 2-7, 2013
The Country Music Cruise
Jan. 19-26, 2014

Carnival Launches Cruise Check-In at Miami Airport
Carnival is opening check-in counters at Miami International Airport so passengers can get their Sail & Sign and boarding cards before arriving at the port. The Carnival counters are open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Concourses D and H on the day of sailing.

Based on flight arrival, you will check in and receive a boarding card that reads “Airport Express” along with your Sail & sign card.  If you did not pre-purchase Carnival’s transportation, you have the option to buy transfers to the pier during check-in. Your must take their your luggage with you whether using Carnival's transportation service or other means.

Carnival “Faster to the Fun”
Being tested on Carnival Imagination and Liberty, this option includes early embarkation, early stateroom availability, express luggage delivery to staterooms, priority dinner seating, and choice of early or late debarkation. The cost is $49.95 per stateroom, regardless of number of guest.

Celebrity Cruises Winter Escape Sale
Dreaming about a Luxury Vacation?  What about a Caribbean vacation with free gratuities and a savings of up to $420.  Plus, receive $200 to spend on board!   Well Celebrity Cruises is offering 99 different sailings, aboard seven stunning ships, ranging from 4- to 14-nights, where you can do just that.  But hurry.  You have to book between Oct 8 - 20, 2012.

Norwegian Getaway to Sail Eastern Caribbean from Miami in 2014
Norwegian Cruise Line said the new Norwegian Getaway will sail a seven-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary from the Port of Miami year-round. Following inaugural events in Europe, Norwegian Getaway will arrive in Miami in late Jan 2014 and begin sailing on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014.

Oceania Cruises Expands Oceania Club Passenger Loyalty Program
Oceania Cruises is enhancing its Oceania Club loyalty program by adding a new Blue membership level for guests to earn rewards on their first cruise.  Current benefits include on-board recognition and membership-level pins, exclusive cocktail receptions and member-only offers. Higher levels also include free cruises, free Canyon Ranch SpaClub treatments, and a combination of benefits that reward guests with both shipboard credits and pre-paid gratuities.

Carnival Bans Carry-on Alcohol When Carnival Spirit Sails Australia
All Carnival ships allow adults to pack a 750ml bottle of wine or Champagne in their carry-on luggage, but this will not be the case when Carnival Spirit sails in Australia. 

Carnival is also dropping it’s all-you-can-drink package.  Other cancelled services include Bon Voyage liquor, which allowed people to pre-order bottles of spirits, wine and beer to be delivered to their cabin, and Bon Voyage gifts, which is used for buying presents for other passengers.


Azamara will launch nighttime shore excursions in 2013
Azamara Club Cruises has announced new offerings on its European sailings in 2013 aboard the Azamara Quest and the Azamara Journey. The "AzAmazing Evening" program offers immersive nighttime land excursions for free, available with each cruise. The cruise line is also introducing a new line of complimentary drink selections at its onboard bars

Royal Princess pool deck to feature fountain show

The Royal Princess will feature an island area between two pools that will become the showcase for an interactive sound and light show with dancing fountains.  The fountain feature will have 85 water jets that can shoot water 33 feet into the sky.  This is in addition, to the see-through skywalk extending in a semi-circle over the ocean and a display screen for outdoor movies that is 30% larger than screens on existing ships.  Princess also said that evening entertainment will include a deck party featuring a DJ on a balcony two decks above the dance floor.

Princess Cruises 3 & 4 Day West Coast Getaways
That’s right, starting September 2013, Princess will offer 3 &4 day sailings from Los Angeles. 

3-Day (Los Angeles, Ensenada, day at sea, Los Angeles)
October 4, 7, 18, 21 - 2013
November 1, 4, 15, 18, 21, 24 - 2013
December 1 - 2013
January 13 - 2014

4-Day ( Los Angeles, Catalina or Santa Barbara or San Diego, Ensenada, day at sea, LA)
September 26 & 30 - 2013
October 10, 14, 24, 28 - 2013
November 7, 11, 27 - 2013
January 16 - 2014


Azamara Club Cruises West Coast Voyages
12 night sea of cortez/copper canyon – Jan 29 – Feb 10, 2014
Mazatlan, Mexico - La Paz, Mexico - Topolobampo, Mexico - Guaymas, Mexico - Loreto, Mexico - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Los Angeles

8 Night Coastal California – Feb 10-18, 2014
Santa Barbara - Monterey - San Francisco - Ensenada, Mexico - Los Angeles

14 Night rout of the america – Feb 18 – Mar 4, 2014
Los Angeles - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Manzanillo. Mexico - Ixtapa (Zihuatanejo), Mexico - Huatulco, Mexico - Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala - Acajutla, El Salvador - San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua - Caldera, Costa Rica

Thought for the Month
Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward. --Victor Kiam, American businessman
 

Wishing you a great weekend
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC
Your Personal Travel Consultant

 

Friday, September 21, 2012

Sep 21 2012 Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary


Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant

September 21, 2012



Theme Nights onboard the The Soul Train Cruise

The Soul Train Cruise is known for music, performances and fun, which is why the late night parties and evening events are called “Boarding The Night Train”. Sometime around 11pm every night, the entire ship opens up and almost every venue has a different program or event. All “Boarding The Night Train” events are offered on a first come, first served basis. Listed below is a list of the themes for all nights.



Sunday – Fort Lauderdale: Welcome Night: Are You Ready? - Whatever you wore on the ship



MONDAY – AT SEA: SOUL BY THE SEA

Monday is party day and party night. We start in the afternoon with the T-Shirt Party on deck jam and “Pimp-My-T-Shirt” Contest. Always one of the most fun events of the cruise, all you have to do is wear your Soul Train Cruise T-Shirt and you are welcome to join us on the Lido Deck for food, music and drinks. You will receive your Soul Train Cruise T-Shirt in plenty of time to prepare for the “Pimp My T-Shirt” contest. It will be a lot of fun and there will be prizes.



Midnight at Midnight Event - Pa-Jam-A Party so put on your PJs (appropriate and tasteful attire required) and join us on the Lido Deck for some late night dancing and fun at our PJ party. You can stay up as late as you want, for you are already dressed for bed!



TUESDAY – GRAND TURK: ALL WHITE PARTY

The perfect party for the summer breeze of the Caribbean, because lighter colors look cool and refreshing, so whether casual, semi-formal or out-right crazy, we want to see you in ALL White!



WEDNESDAY – SAN JUAN: SOULFUL BEACH PARTY

It’s a beach party on deck – Wear your shorts, sarongs, Hawaiian Shirts, Leis or simply something you are comfortable in at the beach as we enjoy our BBQ on Deck under the stars and shake our hips to the sounds of the local music!



Midship at Midnight will be a late night tribute of the legacy of Michael Jackson with DW3 and friends… You wanna be startin’ something!



THURSDAY – ST. THOMAS: 70’S FUNK NIGHT

Tonight is the night that Midship at Midnight will take you back to the wild days of the 70’s! This is the COSTUME NIGHT of the cruise and we encourage EVERYONE to participate, with flairs, wigs and platforms shoes! Prizes awarded for BEST DRESSED!!!



FRIDAY - AT SEA: DRESS TO THE NINES!

Our most favorite night on the ship, where we all dress to impress with your most fashionable attire on this Formal Night ..The Ladies in gowns and the guys in Tuxes, this night is elegant, stylish and classy!



SATURDAY – HALF MOON CAY: FAREWELL NIGHT

A celebration of the bittersweet feelings that accompany the last night of a wonderful cruise.



Serenade of the Seas to Receive Oasis-Class Amenities

Serenade of the Seas will re-emerge from her dry dock with a new lineup of specialty restaurants, which will include Giovanni’s Table Italian restaurant, Izumi Asian cuisine and the Chef’s Table dining experience. Special dining packages will also be offered.



The Royal Choice Dining Package, which includes dinner at Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table and Izumi for $55 per guest, or the Chef’s Table Dining Package for $130 per guest, which includes all of the specialty restaurants as well as the Chef’s Table.

Serenade of the Seas also will offer additional dining deals at Giovanni’s Table. Groups of four or more can take advantage of the Celebration Dining Deal, which is valid for the first two nights of each sailing and allows groups of four or more to enjoy a delicious meal plus a $30 beverage credit at a cost of $20 per person. Groups of eight or more can opt for the Set Sail Dining Deal which includes dinner on the first night of their cruise for $14 per guest.



Further enhancing its onboard culinary offerings Royal Caribbean is expanding its partnership with renowned wine producer Domaines Barons de Rothschild by offering the exclusive Lafite Wine Tasting Experience onboard. Available for $23 to $25 per person, depending upon ship and itinerary, the experience, which was first introduced onboard Allure of the Seas, offers guests a unique tasting showcasing the renowned vintages from France’s Bordeaux region.



Developed in conjunction with Château Lafite Rothschild, the premier estate under the Rothschild name, and Master Sommelier John Blazon, the Lafite Wine Experience aims to expand guests’ understanding of growing regions within Bordeaux. A Royal Caribbean cellar master leads the tasting, sharing details about the wines and the winemakers and the history and suggestions for food pairings. A souvenir packet allows guests to take a piece of the experience home with winemakers’ notes, recipes and more.



The Lafite Wine Tasting Experience is now available for pre-booking on select ships, including Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas



WEST COAST 2013 SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE - October 12 – 19, 2013 out of San Diego

It is the perfect vacation program for groups, family, social club, reunion, sports club, sorority fraternity, alumni association, or just rends and family wanting to get-together. You’re going to love this cruise.



Itinerary

Saturday, October 12, 2013 Departing from San Diego 5:00 PM

Sunday, October 13 At Sea

Monday, October 14 Scenic Cruising, Bahia Magdalena

Tuesday, October 15 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 8:00 am – Overnight

Wednesday, October 16 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Overnight – 3:00 pm

Thursday, October 17 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Friday, October 18 At Sea

Saturday, October 19 San Diego, CA 7:00 am Disembarkation



LINEUP

Hosted by Brian Culbertson and Boney James

Featuring - David Sanborn and Marcus Miller

Special Guest - Tower of Power



Candy Dulfer Oleta Adams Jonathan Butler

Richard Elliot Euge Groove Earl Klugh

Kenny Lattimore Alonzo Bodden Rick Braun

Norman Brown DW3 Brian Simpson



Cabin Deposit Amount

$650/person (PS-SZ)

$550/person (VA-VH)

$450/person (C-Single)



Inside cabins start at $1875 pp +$325 taxes & gratuities. Return Guest inside cabin start at $1750 pp



PLEASE NOTE: All payments are non-refundable so insurance is highly recommended.



The Rockettes to christen Norwegian Cruise Line's new ship

The high-kicking Rockettes of Radio City Music Hall fame will christen the Norwegian Breakaway on May 8, 2013. Two dancers from the troupe will be aboard the first six sailings of the ship and the first sailing of the month thereafter, to take part in special events.



The collaboration also includes designating Norwegian as the official cruise line of the Rockettes and Radio City Music Hall and an official partner of the group's popular Christmas spectacular. An 11-foot model of Breakaway will be on display year-round in the Radio City lobby and Christmas show-goers in 2012 will be able to enter a sweepstakes to win one of two cruises for four aboard Breakaway.



Port of San Diego Opens Cruise Season with Disney Wonder

The Port of San Diego will begin its 2012-13 cruise season on Sept. 21 with the inaugural visit of the Disney Wonder at Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier. A ceremonial plaque exchange will take place onboard the vessel at 11:30 a.m. between Capt. Fabian Dib, San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders and Port Commissioner Bob Nelson.

The Disney Wonder is sailing out of Los Angeles to San Diego as part of Pixar-themed voyages. This will be the first of four port-of-call visits that the Disney Wonder makes to San Diego. The vessel returns to San Diego Bay on Sept. 28, Oct. 5 and Oct. 12.



PRIDE OF AMERICA REFURBISHMENT

On March 23, 2013, Pride of America, will enter a 14 day dry dock for major enhancements, including the addition of new luxurious suites and studio staterooms. The ship will receive major renovations including the addition of 24 ultra-luxurious suites, four Studio staterooms and four inside staterooms; Moderno Churrascaria, ship wide wireless internet; new carpeting throughout; flat screen televisions in all staterooms; updated décor; upgrades to the fitness center; new directional signage; as well as renovations to the gift shop, photo gallery and art gallery.



Pride of America will return to her seven-day Hawaii itinerary departing from Honolulu every Saturday when she returns to service in early April 2013



Cruise industry implements lifeboat-training program on all ships

The Cruise Lines International Association and the European Cruise Council have announced their adoption of a new training policy on lifeboats. The Life Boat Loading for Training Purposes policy takes effect immediately and requires crew on all member ships to undergo a launching and full-loading procedure for a lifeboat at least once every six months.



Thought for the Month

Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward."

--Victor Kiam, American businessman





Wishing you a great weekend



Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant



Friday, September 14, 2012

Sep 14, 2012 Cruise Notes from Mary


Cruise Notes from Mary
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
September 14, 2012

 

Happy Friday Everyone


2013 Soul Train Cruise Sailing out of San Diego
 
The next sailing of the Soul Train Cruise is Oct. 5-12, 2013! We will sail on Holland America's m/s Westerdam, the same ship that we are using for the spring cruise. This new sailing sails roundtrip San Diego, with stops in Cabo San Lucas and an overnight stay in Puerto Vallarta.
 
As we know, the music is what matters most and this sailing will feature some of the most exciting performers in the "Soul Train" tradition. The lineup is not yet completed but already scheduled are


Earth, Wind & Fire        Gladys Knight                           The Bar-Kays
Confunkshun                Sugarfoot's Ohio Players           The Mary Jane Girls
The Dazz Band                         The Original Lakeside              Jody Watley    
A Taste of Honey featuring Janice Marie                       DJ Biz Markie
Comedian Alonzo Bodden                                             Party band DW3

Cruise with Mary from the Far East to Dubai
If you are interested in sailing with me from Singapore to Dubai on April 5, 2013, here is your last chance because this sailing is SOLD OUT. To take advantage of group pricing, your deposit is due October 1, 2012  In addition, if you are a member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society, savings coupons are also available for this sailing.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise 2013 ... Everyone Will Be There
Week 1 - January 13-20, 2013
Week 2 - January 20-27, 2013

Did someone mention party? The party continues day and night at a variety of events including costume parties, pool games, Star Search, dancing and our all-night jam sessions. Now you know why The Smooth Jazz Cruise is The Greatest Party at Sea and an annual affair for hundreds and hundreds of guests.

2013 Lineup

David Sanborn                    Marcus Miller         George Benson
Jonathan Butler                Candy Dulfer          Alonzo Bodden
Rick Braun                           Brian Culbertson Richard Elliot
Ken Ford                               Jeff Golub               Bob James
Brian Simpson                     Angie Stone                         Steve Cole
Paul Taylor                           Dane Butcher          Pat Prescott

Special Excursions Planned in Cozumel for SJC '13
Enjoy sailing with Candy Dulfer, scuba diving with Richard Elliot, or tennis with Brian Culbertson.

SAVE THE DATE – The Smooth Jazz Cruise is Coming to the West Coast

October 12-19, 2013 – More Info to follow

2013 Super Bowl Cruise on Carnival Inspiration
Group pricing for oceanview cabins are going fast and only a few remain.   Once they are gone, price is subject to change based on availability.  A $100 per person deposit is needed to secure your space so do not delay
 
Azamara Club Cruises to Renovate their Two Ships
Shipwide renovations will include new carpets, upholstery, and a new color palette in public spaces. The ships also will feature new mattresses and upgraded veranda furniture, resurfaced pool, and new sun loungers and pool towels on the outer decks. The Casino Bar will be expanded with new furniture and the Spa and fitness center will be refreshed with a new steam room, showers, and state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio equipment.

On the culinary front, guests will soon enjoy a new caviar and champagne bar within Aqualina as well as a new Chef’s Table concept featuring three wine degustation menus.  Azamara Quest will spend eight nights in drydock starting Nov. 7, 2012. Azamara Journey will enter drydoc on Jan. 6, 2013, for a seven-night renovation.

Carnival Dream Enters Dry Dock
Carnival Dream has entered a two-week dry dock that will add two new bars, RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar, along with Cherry on Top.  The two new watering holes will be located poolside on Lido Deck. RedFrog Rum Bar has a Caribbean vibe, with rum-based frozen drinks and beers, including Carnival’s private label draft brew, ThirstyFrog Red. Across the deck will be BlueIguana Tequila Bar, which has a Mexican-themed atmosphere and tequila-based frozen drinks and Mexican beers. Cherry on Top features bins of bulk candy, gifts, novelties, custom apparel and more.

Cunard Cancels Queen Victoria’s Oct. 3 Cruise Due to Propulsion Problem
Cunard canceled Queen Victoria’s Oct. 3 cruise so it can repair the vessel’s propulsion system. The canceled cruise is a 16-night “Adriatic Discovery Voyage.” Passengers are offered an alternative Cunard sailing or a full refund, along with an additional 15 percent future cruise credit.
Statue of Liberty to Reopen Oct. 28 After Year-Long Interior Renovation
The day after New York City and the nation commemorated the 11th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, it was announced that the Statue of Liberty will reopen to the public on Oct. 28. The national monument is nearing the completion of a $27.25 million, year-long renovation
Celebrity Cruises’ “Top Chef” Cruise Adds Four New Contestants
Celebrity Cruises and its partners on  “Top Chef, The Cruise” have added four new chefs to the roster of participants -- “Top Chef All Stars” winner Richard Blais, “Top Chef Just Desserts” winner Yigit Pura, “Top Chef: Texas” winner Paul Qui, and “Fan Favorite” winner Fabio Viviani.  The departs April 11 from Miami on Celebrity Constellation.
Barbie Will Sail on Royal Caribbean in New Partnership
 
 
Royal Caribbean International has inked a partnership deal with Mattel to bring the best selling doll of all time, Barbie, onboard the line's fleet. Expect complimentary activities, a premium experience for little girls, and a nautically themed Barbie for sale only on Royal Caribbean's ships.

Carnival to Discontinue Future Cruise Certificate Program
Carnival Cruise Lines is eliminating its future cruise certificate program for departures on or after Sept. 27. Outstanding certificates will be honored up to the expiration date printed on the face of the certificate.  The onboard credit available through onboard booking remains the same.  The program is not offered during three- and four-day cruises or in San Juan, so is unavailable on Carnival Imagination, Inspiration, Sensation, Spirit and Carnival Victory.

Thought for the Month

Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up."  --Thomas Edison, American inventor


Wishing you a great weekend

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant