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News from the world of cruise travel ~
June 16-30, 2003

For schedule changes & departure information on a specific cruise line or port of call, please select Latest Updates by Cruise Line

SARS Updates from the cruise industry

Important Travel Safety Information letter from Jack Williams, President and Chief Operating Officer, Royal Caribbean International

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S/S Norway Heads For the English Channel

June 27, 2003 - This morning, at approximately 6:30 a.m., after extensive discussions with, and clearance from, the US Coast Guard in Miami, the S/S Norway left the Port of Miami on its way to Land's End at the western edge of the English Channel. A seagoing tugboat is towing the ship, with 85 of her crew onboard. The transatlantic crossing will take approximately three weeks. Although the S/S Norway is being towed to Europe, NCL is still determining which shipyard will complete the repairs. She is on schedule to begin sailing again on October 5th, 2003.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the U.S. Coast Guard have now completed their on-site investigation although the NTSB has stated that it may take a year to determine the cause of the accident.

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OCEANIA CRUISES ANNOUNCES 2004 EUROPEAN COLLECTION

Miami, FL, June 27, 2003 – Oceania Cruises has announced details surrounding its 2004 European itineraries which feature the inaugural voyages of Insignia and the second season of the line’s flagship, Regatta. Spanning all of Europe, Regatta and Insignia will sail to glamorous yachting ports, the cradles of ancient civilizations and cosmopolitan capital cities. All in all, the 2004 Europe Collection feature 35 voyages for guests to choose from; calling at 40 ports in 18 different countries. Voyages range from 10 to 14 days in length.

“With the debut of Insignia, we will be able to provide our guests and travel agent partners with more opportunities to experience the world of Oceania Cruises. Europe is so vast and varied, that we need two ships meet the demand and serve all the destinations our guests wish to travel to,” stated Frank Del Rio, President & CEO of Oceania Cruises. “We’re delighted to be able to offer such a comprehensive program of rich and varied itineraries,” added Del Rio. 

2004 European Highlights
2004 will herald the arrival of Oceania Cruises’ second ship, Insignia. Debuting on April 3, 2004, Insignia sails her gala 10-day inaugural voyage from Barcelona to Athens, calling at Marseille, Monte Carlo, Portofino, Florence, Rome, Sorrento, Taormina and Valletta. Sailing a diverse range of itineraries, guests may custom build their own “Grand Voyages” by combining up to three individual itineraries without repeating ports of call. She will sail a spring season of Mediterranean voyages before summering in the British Isles, Norwegian Fjords and the North Cape. Capping off her inaugural European Season, autumn finds her sailing the Black Sea, Greek Isles and Mediterranean. 

Regatta returns to Europe for her second season of highly successful cruises to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. Building upon the magic of the “Vikings, Castles and Kings” itinerary, Regatta will spend an unprecedented three full days in St. Petersburg, Russia. Oceania Cruises is the only large-ship, luxury line to offer such an extensive amount of time in this mystical land, affording guests the opportunity to extend their explorations to Moscow at a more leisurely pace while still affording a copious amount of time to explore St. Petersburg itself. 

The Grand Mediterranean
The natural splendor of Europe – from the picture perfect yacht harbor of Portofino to the black-sand beaches of Santorini – has inspired great traditions in the fine arts. Sail with Regatta and Insignia to the native land of Homer, Aeschylus and Hippocrates and rediscover masterworks of incomparable museums; savor the heritage of great food and wine; listen for the battles of love affairs of history echoing through symphony and sonata. Oceania Cruises offers 20 Mediterranean voyages ranging from 10-14 days, including Insignia’s gala inaugural to the “Classical Empires” from Barcelona to Athens or “Voyages of Antiquity” from Istanbul to Venice. 

Vikings, Castles and Kings
On this journey, privileged guests will experience a land steeped in history and caressed by the midnight sun. Stockholm is the “Venice of the North”, a testament to a beautiful city founded where Lake Malaren laps against the Baltic Sea. A statue of the Little Mermaid sits in the harbor of Copenhagen, letting everyone know that it is a friendly and charming city where there are palaces and parks, fountains and museums and smiling faces everywhere. 

The Russian poet, Alexander Pushkin called St Petersburg “A Window into Europe”. From the Palace of Catherine the Great to the treasures of the Hermitage, the city’s splendor beckons once again. Czars once summered in the Palace-and-Parks complex of Petrodvorets, on the outskirts of St. Petersburg. Restored to its former splendor after World War II, fountains dance around golden statues, recalling the sumptuous elegance of days gone by. Stroll leisurely along Helsinki’s seaside promenade and browse through the colorful wares of Market Square and meander the quaint, cobblestone streets of Estonia’s capital, Tallinn. Of course, no voyage of this magnitude would be complete without a visit to the romantically medieval seaside village of Zeebrugge or lively and spirited Amsterdam.

Ireland & Ice
From the Emerald Isle to the bonny banks of Scotland, to the crystalline waters of the Norwegian Fjords, Insignia embarks upon a series of voyages marked by smiling faces, fabled lands, medieval castles and rolling countryside. Bask in the land of the Midnight Sun while sailing the North Cape, with breathtaking views towards the Barents Sea and the polar north. Overnight in Honningsvåg, the northernmost community in Europe, and experience the majesty of its vast forests and plunging waterfalls. Experience the quaint charm of the Shetland Islands, the fabled land of Scotland and all the history and storied splendor of Ireland. 

More Ports, More Choice, More Time
Reflecting the whims of discerning travelers, Oceania Cruises has tailored its itineraries to include overnight stays at some of Europe’s most alluring ports to allow guests the time to immerse themselves in the rich history, culture and local flavors. They will also have more time to explore and experience the culture, tastes and sights of this land so steeped in history because the ships usually sail at night, arriving at a new port each morning. On most European itineraries, Oceania Cruises calls on a minimum of 8 ports in 4 to 9 different European countries. Discover Seville’s artistic and architectural wonders. Marvel at the medieval treasures and royal majesty of St Petersburg. Step back in time as you visit the “Eternal City” of Rome, revel in its history, its bustling streets and quiet piazzas. 

Extraordinary Value
Oceania Cruises features two luxurious, mid-size ships where every whim is graciously indulged. Guests will savor the finest cuisine at sea, a testament to Oceania Cruises’ Executive Culinary Director, Jacques Pépin, who crafted the extraordinary menus. As the perfect complement, we offer four, open-seating gourmet restaurants. Service is impeccable and highly personalized throughout the ship. After all, with just 684 guests onboard, our staff can provide a cruise experience that larger ships just can’t match. All of our suites and 60% of staterooms feature private teak verandas and the exclusive Tranquility Bed, the most comfortable bedding at sea. Yet, despite this level of sophistication, the ambiance remains wonderfully casual, like that of a country club. 

“Discerning travelers are in search of value. Luxury does not necessarily equate to high prices, rather it is a combination of superb cuisine, exceptional service and intriguing destinations,” stated Bob Binder, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Oceania Cruises. “We’re committed to providing our guests with the highest quality, luxury cruise product at fares that are extraordinarily affordable,” added Binder. 

14 night European voyages begin at just $1,195 per guest with Oceania Cruises’ early booking discount. Of course, suites are the most popular accommodations and thus, sell out quickly. Guests may wish to take advantage of these sumptuous accommodations, which are the best value in luxury cruising, with fares beginning at just $2,795 per guest. 

Oceania Cruises features two intimate and luxurious 684 passenger ships, REGATTA and INSIGNIA. Oceania Cruises’ hallmarks are an unsurpassed culinary experience, a casually elegant atmosphere and unparalleled personal service coupled with extraordinary value. For additional information on Oceania Cruises or to make a reservation please contact your Travel Agent. To request a brochure, call 800-531-5658 or visit www.OceaniaCruises.com.

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Carnival Cruise Lines Takes Delivery Of New 
110,000-Ton Carnival Glory
2,974-Passenger SuperLiner To Be Largest 'Fun Ship' Ever Based At Port Canaveral

MIAMI, June 27 -- In ceremonies today at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, Carnival Cruise Lines, a unit of Carnival Corporation & plc, took delivery of the new 110,000-ton Carnival Glory. It is the 19th vessel in Carnival's "Fun Ship" fleet. Following a 12-day transatlantic crossing from Monfalcone to Port Canaveral, Fla., the 2,974-passenger vessel will be "officially" named July 14 by space industry pioneer Dr. Sally Ride then sail on a special five-day pre- inaugural cruise to Mexico. Following this voyage, Carnival Glory will launch year-round seven-day Caribbean service from Port Canaveral July 19, becoming the largest "Fun Ship" ever based at that port.

"A 'floating resort' in every sense of the word, Carnival Glory is a vacation destination unto itself and brings a new level of excitement to the Port Canaveral market. Including Carnival Glory, Carnival is expected to carry some 390,000 passengers annually from Port Canaveral -- a 72 percent increase over just two years ago," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

The second in Carnival's "Conquest-class" series, Carnival Glory features a variety of on-board amenities and facilities, including 22 "themed" lounges and bars with striking interiors that offer dramatic interpretations of different colors. These include the White Heat Dance Club, featuring a motif of oversized candles; the Amber Palace, a 1,400-seat theater inspired by Russia's legendary Amber Room; and On The Green, a golf-themed sports bar.

The massive SuperLiner also houses four swimming pools, one with a 214- foot-long water slide and another covered by a retractable dome, a 13,300-square-foot health spa, a jogging track, a full gambling casino, and a comprehensive golf program offering professional instruction both aboard ship and during golf excursions. A 4,200-square-foot children's play area, part of the line's top-rated "Camp Carnival" program, and a teen center with a game room and dance club are also available.

Dining options range from elegant two-level formal dining rooms and an upscale reservations-only "steakhouse-style" supper club to an expansive two- level poolside restaurant offering casual alternatives for breakfast, lunch and dinner, a 24-hour pizzeria, New York-style deli, specialty seafood station, a grille area, and more. Of the ship's 1,487 staterooms, 60 percent offer an ocean view with 60 percent of those featuring private balconies.

Carnival Glory's five-day pre-inaugural voyage from Port Canaveral will operate July 14-19 and feature port calls to Costa Maya and Cozumel. The ship's seven-day Caribbean schedule begins July 19 and encompasses alternating eastern and western Caribbean voyages departing Port Canaveral every Saturday. Eastern Caribbean cruises call at Nassau, St. Thomas/St. John, and St. Maarten, while western Caribbean voyages include Key West, Fla.; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel and Progreso/Merida, Mexico. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com.

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Antarctica Expeditions, Significant Savings Highlight Four South American Sailings
Luxury Cruise Line Offers Its First-Ever Land Program on White Continent

LOS ANGELES, June 26 -- Significant savings and a first-ever land program hosted on Antarctica by luxury operator Crystal Cruises highlight four voyages aboard the award-winning 940-guest Crystal Symphony to South America this fall. Couples will enjoy up to 50 per cent off, an additional $1,000 in Best of Everything savings and up to 50 per cent off a Crystal cruise in 2004 if booked before July 31, 2003. And, for singles, Crystal has waived its supplement on the season's first voyage, a 17-day Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires sailing departing Oct. 19, with calls in St. John and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Fortaleza and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Guests will be treated to some of the most intriguing shore excursions and pre-and post-cruise land programs ever offered by Crystal, highlighted by two Antarctica tours and a visit to the Valdes peninsula, a world heritage site. From October through December the Six-Star rated liner will follow a warm- weather route through the Caribbean, down the continent's east coast, cruise the legendary Cape Horn, and sail the Pacific along its west coast, calling in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Chile. Itinerary highlights include a rare visit to the Falkland Islands, and a stop in Ushuaia, the world's most southernmost town located on the island of Tierra del Fuego.

Optional extended explorations of the region's most engaging destinations include the mystical ancient ruins of Machu Picchu and Argentina's magnificent Iguazu Falls. The line's half- and full-day shore excursions will take advantage of South America's cosmopolitan capitals, as well as its natural beauty, cultural charm and historical significance. From monasteries, architectural monuments and botanical gardens to nightclub tangos, chartered air tours and forest Jeep explorations, Crystal Cruises' South America shore excursions are created to engage adventure-seekers, naturalists, history buffs and urbanites alike.

"Our fall South America series offers travelers flexibility and choice. Each sailing features varied destinations and unique opportunities to experience some of the area's most interesting sights," says Adam Leavitt, Crystal's senior vice president, marketing. "And, no matter which itinerary one chooses, Crystal Symphony's numerous onboard amenities and endless pampering provide an ideal floating resort from which to explore the continent."

The remaining voyages include a 13-day, Nov. 6 Buenos Aires to Valparaiso, Chile sailing, with calls in Montevideo, Uruguay; Puerto Madryn, Argentina; Punta Arenas and Puerto Montt, Chile; a 14-day, Nov. 20 Valparaiso to Buenos Aires sailing with calls in Puerto Montt, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Argentina; Port Stanley, Falkland Islands and Montevideo; and a 17-day Dec. 5 Buenos Aires to Fort Lauderdale voyage with calls in Rio de Janeiro, Recife, Fortaleza, Barbados and St. Kitts. Fares start from $4,450.

Antarctica By Foot
Guests may view the White Continent by air on Crystal's flightseeing adventure or, for the first-time ever, may explore some of its 2.7 million square miles on foot during a once-in-a-lifetime expedition, following the paths of great explorers and adventurers the likes of Ernest Shackleton, Douglas Mawson, Roald Amundsen and Robert Scott.

In Puerto Montt, Chile, the Valdes peninsula, an important breeding ground and home to the endangered southern right whale, orca, southern elephant seals and southern sea lions, offers the best vantage point for guests to observe Patagonia's most significant sanctuary for the conservation of marine mammals. It's another new South American land program offered by Crystal in 2003. Other tours will find guests wandering among penguins, visiting the somber Falkland Battlefields from Port Stanley or viewing the spectacular Iguazu Falls by chartered aircraft. And, is there a more fitting way to celebrate an evening in Buenos Aires than to enjoy a sensuous tango?

Pre- and post-cruise tours include mysterious Easter Island, combining the cultural hub of Santiago, seascapes of Vina del Mar and the allure of Easter Island's colossal stone moai and incomparable Argentina, featuring both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of Iguazu Falls, sightseeing and tango shows in Buenos Aires.

About Crystal
Crystal Cruises currently operates the 50,000-ton, 940-guest sister ships, Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony, two of the most spacious and luxurious vessels cruising the world. Crystal Serenity, the fleet's third ship, debuts this week. Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure, call 800.820.6663. Visit the web site at www.crystalcruises.com.

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CELEBRITY CRUISES ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST ENVIRONMENTAL SHIP OF THE YEAR AWARD

MIAMI -- June 26, 2003 -- Celebrity Cruises today announced that its ship, Infinity, has been selected for the company's first Environmental Ship Of The Year Award. 

The award, which will be presented annually, is designed to encourage Celebrity's long-standing commitment to environmental innovation and improvement. Competition for the award assists the company in progressively advancing its environmental performance in manners that go above and beyond regulatory compliance. Judging for the awards was conducted by the independent external auditing firm, Haley and Aldrich, which audits all nine Celebrity ships for adherence to the company's Environmental Compliance Plan. 

"I congratulate our Infinity team for their ship's selection as our first Environmental Ship Of The Year," said Dietmar Wertanzl, Celebrity's senior vice president of Fleet Operations. "The outstanding achievements by Infinity, and by the crews onboard the other ships in our fleet, demonstrate Celebrity's commitment to environmental excellence and continuous improvement. I thank all of our employees who do so much to make environmental advances onboard all our ships."
 

The selection of the Environmental Ship Of The Year was based on seven criteria established by Celebrity and its independent external auditors and covered all of 2002. The criteria evaluated included audit findings related to environmental performance, timeliness and effectiveness of corrective actions, reports of near incidents and non-conformities, the submission of monthly environmental status reports, and the performance of pollution prevention equipment. 

In the award, Infinity's crew was cited for its enthusiasm and dedication to sustaining an environmental program of the highest order. This was demonstrated throughout 2002 by the ship's outstanding performance in its numerous external audits and compliance verifications. The crew was praised for its commitment to continuous improvement through its setting environmental goals and objectives related to the elimination of plastic service items within the Food and Beverage department and water conservation. Additionally, the ship's crew was credited for its commitment to compliance with the International Standards Organization's 14001 ideals for continuous improvement in environmental performance. 

"This award symbolizes the collective effort and continuous teamwork on all our ships and the hard work of their crews to protect the waters on which we live and work," said Captain Bill Wright, Celebrity's senior vice president of Safety, Security and Environment. "For years to come, ships within the Celebrity fleet will be honored by this award. Infinity has set the mark and begun a new tradition of environmental excellence for everyone to follow." As part of their award, the Infinity crew will be given a $25,000 grant they can use with any environmental project or charity they choose. 

The industry's highest-rated premium cruise line with a taste of luxury, Celebrity Cruises' nine-ship fleet is the youngest of any major line. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Bermuda, California, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal and South America. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebrity.com.

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OCEANIA CRUISES’ M/S REGATTA IS CHRISTENED IN 
BARCELONA, SPAIN

Miami, FL, June 26, 2003 – Under sunny skies in Barcelona, Spain, accolades were spoken and tears were shed. Crowds cheered and applauded, and as a magnum of champagne kissed the hull, Regatta’s horn let forth a thunderous roar. A ship had been christened, but more importantly, a new chapter was opened in the annals of cruise history. 
Over seven hundred dignitaries, invited guests and officials gathered not just to witness the naming of a ship, but the birth of a new cruise line. It was an emotionally charged day that centered on dedication, friendship and the fulfillment of dreams.

Regatta’s Godmother, Marcia Del Rio paid homage to the dedication and hard work of all those involved prior to releasing the traditional magnum of champagne against the ship’s hull. “There are many who have worked so tirelessly to make this possible, and for that reason, I congratulate each and every one of you on this magnificent achievement.”

Frank Del Rio, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises stated “Oceania Cruises is something special. That something special begins with our people, a team of experienced, dedicated and loyal professionals who are world class in their own right.” Over the past six months, a cadre of Oceania Cruises management, employees and staff set out to accomplish an almost endless stream of tasks that under normal circumstances, would have taken 12-18 months. “For all of us Oceania Cruises is not just a cruise line, but a labor of love and that’s what makes us unique, makes us distinctive and makes us successful,” added Del Rio.

After the christening ceremony, a Gala Luncheon was held aboard the vessel and guests were treated to the first of many culinary delights. Joe Watters, Chairman of Oceania Cruises presided over the ceremonies during which he remarked, “Oceania Cruises and Regatta have come to life because of the fine men and women onboard who are entrusted with operating the ship and delivering our guests a truly remarkable cruise experience.”  Commenting on Regatta’s sold out inaugural season, Watters added, “Oceania Cruises extends it’s heartfelt thanks to all of its valued guests and travel industry partners who have contributed so much to our success.”

Oceania Cruises was formed in 2002 by cruise industry veterans Frank Del Rio and Joe Watters. Best in class cuisine, destination-rich itineraries, and extraordinary value define Oceania Cruises’ five-star product and have quickly positioned the company as the cruise line of choice for discerning cruisers. Regatta embarks upon her inaugural voyage on July 5, 2003 and will be joined by Insignia on April 3, 2004. The line’s two intimate and luxurious 684-passenger ships, Regatta and Insignia, feature itineraries to the Baltic, British Isles, Greek Isles, Mediterranean, Black Sea, Scandinavia, Central America, the Caribbean, and Panama Canal. The itineraries have been tailored to include many overnight port stays to allow guest time to immerse themselves in the history, culture and local flavor of the region. 
 
For additional information on Oceania Cruises or to make a reservation please contact your Travel Agent. To request a brochure, call 800-531-5658 or visit www.OceaniaCruises.com.

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Carnival Miracle to Serve as "Floating Hotel" for 
2005 Super Bowl in Jacksonville

MIAMI (06/26/03) - Carnival Cruise Lines' 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle has been selected by the Jacksonville Super Bowl Host Committee to serve as a "floating hotel" for guests attending Super Bowl XXXIX in Jacksonville on Feb. 6, 2005.  During Super Bowl XXXIX festivities, Carnival Miracle will be docked on the St. Johns River from Wednesday, Feb. 2 through Monday, Feb. 7, 2005, near ALLTEL Stadium, the Super Bowl game site, and downtown Jacksonville's various dining and entertainment venues.

"Carnival Cruise Lines is very pleased to work with the Jacksonville Super Bowl Host Committee to provide its new 'Fun Ship' Carnival Miracle as a 'floating resort' for Super Bowl XXXIX festivities," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president & CEO. "This is a 'win-win' for all parties involved, providing the City of Jacksonville with an additional 1,062 rooms for Super Bowl guests while offering Carnival a unique opportunity to participate in the world's premier sporting event," he added. 

While on board Carnival Miracle, Super Bowl attendees can enjoy the ship's wide-ranging "resort-style" amenities, including a 14,500-square-foot health spa, an Internet café, jogging track, and four swimming pools, one with a cascading water slide.  Also housed within the ship's 12 passenger decks are 16 "themed" lounges and bars, including a sports bar, a 1,100-seat theater showcasing lavish Vegas-style entertainment, a two-level dance club, a piano bar and other live music venues. Dining options include a two-level formal restaurant, an upscale "steakhouse-style" supper club located at the uppermost level of an 11-deck-high atrium, and an expansive poolside eatery offering casual alternatives for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a 24-hour pizzeria. 

The Carnival Miracle's deployment to Jacksonville for the 2005 Super Bowl, which was facilitated by Miami-based Landry and Kling, the exclusive management company for the Host Committee/NFL dockside ship housing, will mark a return of sorts for the 88,500-ton SuperLiner, which is currently under construction at the Kvaerner Masa-Yards in Helsinki, Finland. Just last month, Carnival announced that Carnival Miracle will make its debut from Jacksonville March 1, 2004, operating 11 three-, five- and six-day voyages through April 17, 2004. Following a program of seven-day cruises from Baltimore, Carnival Miracle will reposition to Tampa to operate week-long Caribbean sailings from that port beginning Nov. 7, 2004.

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Host Committee Signs Cruise Ship Contracts for Super Bowl XXXIX
Public to Have Access to Ship-based Amenities

JACKSONVILLE, FL, June 25, 2003 -- After months of negotiations, the Jacksonville Super Bowl Host Committee signed contracts today with three cruise lines to secure five ships for Super Bowl XXXIX. The Radisson Seven Seas Navigator, Holland America's Volendam, Zaandam and Zuiderdam and the Carnival Miracle will add 3,617 rooms to the regional hotel inventory, allowing the Host Committee to meet a critical eligibility requirement to host the 2005 game. 

According to Host Committee Co-Chairman and CEO Tom Petway, the signing of the cruise ships marks a major milestone for the Host Committee. "We have been negotiating with numerous lines for quite some time, and I am confident that we have reached an agreement that benefits the Host Committee, the NFL, Super Bowl guests, and, most importantly, the Jacksonville community." The ships will come equipped with 16 restaurants, 12 nightclubs, 11 entertainment venues, five spas and 29 bars - all of which will be accessible to the public with prior credentialing. 

The idea to bring in several cruise ships to serve as floating hotels was initially proposed as a way for the city to meet a minimum bid requirement, but has since become a key component in Jacksonville's plans for Super Bowl XXXIX. "Our plan to bring in several cruise ships to serve as floating hotels was a way for us to add quality rooms for Super Bowl guests and entertainment opportunities to the downtown area. I'm pleased to see that our vision is steadily becoming a reality," said Host Committee Co-Chair Peter Rummell. "In addition to the ship-based entertainment, we plan to create a temporary entertainment village or "SuperFest Zone" along the river in downtown Jacksonville, creating a festive atmosphere for NFL guests and our local community." 

According to Host Committee president and COO Michael Kelly, the cruise ships will accomplish four key objectives. "The ships enable the city to meet a Super Bowl bid requirement by bringing Jacksonville's inventory of quality hotel rooms to 17,500 - the minimum required by the NFL; they help to create a consolidated Super Bowl village close to ALLTEL Stadium, also consistent with our bid application; they allow the general public an opportunity to enjoy ship-based amenities, which extends the Super Bowl experience to the local community; and they augment entertainment options downtown by providing numerous restaurants, nightclubs, bars, theaters, live music venues, and more. Although the Host Committee and the NFL will bear the cost of the charters, the general public will be able to access the ships' restaurants and entertainment amenities. It is truly a win-win!"

In 2001, the Host Committee named Landry & Kling Meetings at Sea the exclusive management company for the Host Committee/NFL dockside ship housing initiative. "Landry and Kling has been focusing on this project for more than two years, and we couldn't have asked for a better partner," said Kelly. "The company, headed by Joyce Landry, brings a wealth of knowledge of the cruise industry, vast experience in dealing with large events on cruise ships and a professional, positive approach. Much of what we're planning to do with the cruise ships during Super Bowl XXXIX has never been done before, and Landry and Kling has been able to think outside-the-box to make it happen," said Kelly. 

"This is the defining moment in the success of this project," said Joyce Landry, president & chief executive officer. "Now that the ships have been chosen, we are well on our way to bringing this exciting project to fruition. The City of Jacksonville provides the ideal prototype for the seamless integration of floating hotels, entertainment venues and land-based accommodations-all in close proximity to the stadium."

With the exception of the Carnival Miracle, all ships are scheduled to arrive in Jacksonville on Thursday, February 3, 2005 and depart the Monday following the game. The Carnival Miracle will arrive on Wednesday, February 2 and will also depart Monday.

Because only 11 percent of the North American population has cruised, the cruise industry saw the project as an opportunity to market their finest vessels to a targeted audience. "Radisson Seven Seas Cruises is delighted to be associated with the 2005 Super Bowl in Jacksonville and the celebrations surrounding that event, traditionally the most watched TV event of the year," said Radisson Seven Seas Cruises CEO Mark Conroy. "RSSC is proud that one of our new luxury vessels, the Seven Seas Navigator, has been chosen to participate in this exciting event."

Carnival offered its newest top-of-the-line ship which makes her debut in spring 2004. "Carnival Cruise Lines is very pleased to work with the Jacksonville Super Bowl Host Committee to provide its new 'Fun Ship' Carnival Miracle as a 'floating resort' for the festivities surrounding Super Bowl XXXIX," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president & CEO. "This is a 'win-win' for all parties involved, providing the City of Jacksonville with an additional 1,062 rooms for Super Bowl guests while offering Carnival a unique opportunity to participate in the world's premier sporting event," he added.

Holland America Line, which is positioning three ships in Jacksonville in 2005, has been enthusiastic about participating in Jacksonville's Super Bowl since the day the city submitted its bid application in 2000. "As a leader in premium cruising, our ships include more amenities and services than most major resorts," said Paul Shortall, director of incentive and charter sales for HAL. "Our vessels will add the perfect complement to the downtown Super Bowl festivities by providing the city with enhanced opportunities for fine dining, entertainment and other hospitality venues."

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Carnival Corporation Engages in ‘Ultimate’ ship Discussions

6/25/03 -- Carnival Corporation & plc Chairman and CEO, Micky Arison has disclosed a Carnival Corp. project he referred to as 'The Ultimate Caribbean Princess.' Arison told analysts during an earnings conference call that P&O Princess was contemplating such a vessel prior to their merger and discussions are continuing within the new Carnival Corp. & plc group under the title 'The Ultimate Carnival-Princess Project.' Plans are not firm, but the 'Ultimate' vessel may be in the 170,000-180,000 GRT range and carry approximately 3,600-4,000 passengers. Arison added that it would be 2006 or 2007 "when this could theoretically materialize."

Whether the design becomes common for Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess, and/or Costa, or is to be exclusive to just one brand, hasn't been determined. This announcement comes slightly over a week after Royal Caribbean revealed discussions with Kvaerner Masa-Yards about an 'Ultra-Voyager' ship class of more or less the same size (3,600 passengers double occupancy and just under 160,000 GRT) and with a possible initial launch in 2006.

Arison also stated that Carnival is modernizing older vessels in its fleet, investing $20 million in the Celebration (built in 1987) and $25 million the Fantasy (built in 1990).

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Royal Caribbean International "Serenades" Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Reprises Godmother Role for Cruise Line's New Serenade of the Seas

MIAMI, June 25 -- This fall, Whoopi Goldberg will reprise her role as a godmother for Royal Caribbean International when she officially names the line's newest ship, Serenade of the Seas, during ceremonies in New York City on Aug. 22, 2003. Goldberg previously served as godmother to Royal Caribbean's Viking Serenade, which left service in 2002. Serenade of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's newest Radiance-class ship, which combines an elegant, yacht-like design with many of the most innovative amenities and onboard programs available in the cruise industry. Serenade of the Seas will be the first Royal Caribbean ship to sail an inaugural season from New York City, as well as the first to offer Canada itineraries from The Big Apple.

"We're thrilled to have Whoopi, a talented artist and a true humanitarian, serve as godmother once again," said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "And it couldn't be a better pairing -- Serenade of the Seas is both beautiful and exciting, much like her multi-talented godmother."

Goldberg is among one of a very elite group of artists who have won the Grammy, the Academy Award, the Golden Globe, the Emmy and the Tony. She earned an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe Award for her film debut in "The Color Purple" and won the Oscar and a Golden Globe for "Ghost." On television, Whoopi appeared on the series "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and "Bagdad Cafe," hosted her own late-night talk show, and co-hosted eight "Comic Relief" specials, as well as four "Academy Awards" telecasts. Her new NBC sitcom, "Whoopi," will debut in September, airing Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m.

As a producer, Goldberg's work includes the Lifetime television series "Strong Medicine," the Emmy award-winning "Hollywood Squares," and "Thoroughly Modern Millie," which is currently running on Broadway and won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Goldberg is equally well-known for her tireless humanitarian efforts on behalf of children, the homeless, human rights, education, substance abuse, and the battle against AIDS, as well as many other causes and charities. Goldberg is also among a distinguished list of Royal Caribbean godmothers, including Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Katarina Witt, Stefanie Graf, former first lady Rosalyn Carter, Gloria Estefan, Lauren Bacall and Queen Sonja of Norway.

About Serenade of the Seas
Built by the Meyerwerft Yard in Papenburg, Germany, Serenade of the Seas was designed to bring the sea, sun and coastal scenery indoors with nearly three acres of exterior glass - including floor-to-ceiling windows in most lounges and public areas; the line's highest percentage of balcony staterooms; and glass elevators facing the ocean. The 2,110-passenger Serenade also offers an impressive span of activities, including Royal Caribbean's signature rock- climbing wall; a sports deck with a golf simulator, nine-hole miniature golf course and basketball court; a billiards room with gyroscopic pool tables; the ShipShape Fitness Center and Spa; an adults-only Solarium with a retractable glass canopy; and expansive Adventure Ocean facilities for kids ages 3-17.

Guests on Serenade of the Seas have a variety of dining venues to choose from, including the two-story, traditional main dining room; two casual eateries, the Windjammer Cafe and Seaview Cafe; and two specialty restaurants, Chops Grille steakhouse and Portofino. Evening entertainment includes a Las Vegas-style casino, full-scale production shows, and a range of performers and musicians appearing in multiple bars and lounges throughout the ship.

Beginning Sept. 1, Serenade will offer four- and five-night cruises from New York to Canada, with stops in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick. Prices start at $499 per person, double occupancy. In November, Serenade of the Seas repositions to San Juan, where she will sail weekly seven-night Southern Caribbean itineraries to ports of call including St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. John's, Antigua; Castries, St. Lucia; and Bridgetown, Barbados. Prices start at $649 per person, double occupancy.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 16 ships in service and three more under construction, including Serenade of the Seas. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com or call 800-327-6700.

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Canadian Olympic Gold Medalists to Christen New Island Princess in Historic Vancouver Ceremony
Figure Skating Pair Jamie Sale and David Pelletier to Name Vessel July 11 in City's First Ever Cruise Ship Christening Ceremony

SANTA CLARITA, CA, June 25, 2003 -- Princess Cruises announced that Olympic gold medal-winning figure skaters Jamie Sale and David Pelletier will christen the line's newest ship, Island Princess, during the first such ceremony ever held in Vancouver. The Canadian pair, who earned international recognition during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, will become the vessel's godparents on July 11, 2003. The location was specifically selected by Princess to honor its longstanding relationship with the city of Vancouver and the province of British Columbia. The naming celebration for the new, $400 million vessel will kick off with a traditional christening ceremony on deck at 6:00 p.m. alongside the vessel's summer home berth at Canada Place. 

"We're very excited to announce that this noted Canadian duo has accepted our invitation to serve as godparents for our new Island Princess," said Dean Brown, Princess' executive vice president of sales and customer service. "Selecting Vancouver as the location for this distinctive maritime ceremony is our way of paying tribute to one of our most popular, long-time summer home ports." 

"That Princess has selected Vancouver as the location for this auspicious event speaks volumes about their commitment to our longstanding relationship," stated Captain Gordon Houston, President and Chief Executive Officer, Vancouver Port Authority. "Princess has been in Vancouver for 34 years and will have 43 sailings this year. Their continued support helps to fuel the cruise industry, which injects more than $500 million into the national economy each year." 

"Joining our rich maritime tradition to our outstanding sports heritage seems particularly fitting, as our city awaits the International Olympic Committee's decision on our bid to host the 2010 Winter Olympic Games," said Terry Bubb, chair of the Tourism Vancouver board of directors. "We are delighted to learn that Princess has selected Canada's reigning gold medalists to name their newest vessel here in the Port of Vancouver, and we couldn't think of anyone more fitting to name the newest 'Love Boat' than Jamie Sale and David Pelletier." 

Sale and Pelletier have been skating as a pair since 1998, and together hold national, international and Olympic titles. The Canadian skaters earned worldwide acclaim for their performance in the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. The Olympic duo will join an illustrious list of dignitaries who have christened Princess and P&O ships, including Princess Diana; Margaret Thatcher; the President of the Republic of Panama, Her Excellency Mireya Moscoso; the First Lady of Tahiti, Madame Tonita Flosse; and celebrities such as Audrey Hepburn, Sophia Loren, Ali MacGraw and Ryan O'Neil, and Olivia de Havilland. 

Additional highlights of the uniquely Canadian celebration include a specially created regional menu; bubbly for both the baptism and the attending guests from the award-winning Kelowna-based Summerhill Pyramid Winery; and entertainment by the Dal Richards Orchestra. 

The new Island Princess is one of cruising's most advanced passenger vessels. The 92,000-ton, 1,970-passenger ship offers the same vast array of public room space as Princess' renowned larger "Grand-class" ships but, in a twist, it is spread over two decks and with fewer passengers aboard. 

One of the best-known names in North American cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise and tour company. Part of Carnival Corporation (NYSE: CCL - News; NYSE: CUK - News), its current fleet of 11 ships sail on approximately 150 different itineraries around the globe, calling at more than 260 ports on all seven continents. By 2006 a further five ships will be introduced. Additional information is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.

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Royal Caribbean Ship Saves Two Sailors in Middle of Atlantic Ocean
Second Dramatic Rescue of Seamen in One Week

MIAMI, June 23 -- A Royal Caribbean International ship has made another dramatic rescue of sailors floating alongside their sinking vessels. One week after Radiance of the Seas saved three Canadian fishermen off the western coast of Canada, Nordic Empress conducted an emergency rescue in the Atlantic. "I congratulate the Nordic Empress crew and the Radiance of the Seas crew for their heroic rescue efforts," said Jack Williams, Royal Caribbean's president and chief operating officer. "These rescues are excellent examples of the masterful seamanship behind all the ships in our fleet. Because of the bravery and technical abilities of our personnel, five lives were saved in one week's time. I join all our employees in saluting the outstanding seamanship shown in the face of extremely adverse conditions by the crews of Nordic Empress and Radiance of the Seas.

Nordic Empress departed Hamilton, Bermuda, on Friday afternoon, June 20, for a return sailing to New York. At approximately 9 p.m., in 30-knot winds and nine-foot seas, the bridge officers saw two rescue flares shoot from the water into the sky ahead of them and to their port side. The ship immediately changed course and proceeded cautiously toward the source of the flares, not knowing who or what might be in the heavy seas. As the ship approached, additional flares were shot in the air and hand flares were detected. The ship's personnel prepared for an emergency rescue. At approximately 9:30 p.m., using search lights, the ship was able to detect something in the water. Fifteen minutes later, they could see Everest Horizontal, a capsized 50-foot racing sailboat with two men clinging to its rudders.

The ship's captain, Yngvar Knutsen, carefully positioned Nordic Empress to block the wind and waves as the ship lowered a rescue boat. By 10:05 p.m., the two sailors were safely onboard Nordic Empress. The rescued sailors, Tim Kent and Rick McKenna, both of Elm Grove, Wisconsin, reported that their sailboat, en route from Bermuda to Newport, Rhode Island, suddenly lost its keel weight and quickly capsized. They were only able to grab a bag with flares as they escaped the sailboat and swam to its hull. After being rescued, the sailors were cared for by the ship's medical staff for mild hypothermia and were taken to New York, where Nordic Empress concluded the cruise on Sunday morning.

Radiance of the Seas made a similar rescue of three Canadian fishermen on June 13. Radiance of the Seas was sailing south toward Vancouver, when at approximately 5 a.m. it received an emergency radio call from the Canadian Coast Guard. Silver Bounty, an 80-foot fishing vessel, was sinking after having been overtaken by 40-knot winds and 12-foot seas. The fishing vessel was 15 miles ahead of Radiance of the Seas. Captain Kent Ringborn ordered the ship to full speed and reached the nearly submerged fishing vessel at 6 a.m. By that time, the three fishermen had spent approximately 90 minutes in the 50-degree water. If not for their rescue suits, they likely would not have survived much longer. After negotiating the high wind and seas and lowering a rescue boat in the treacherous conditions, the three fishermen were onboard Radiance of the Seas by 6:30 a.m. The fishermen were treated by the ship's medical staff for hypothermia and the ingestion of saltwater and diesel fuel.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 16 ships in service and three more under construction. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com or call 800-327-6700.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Reports Death of Eighth SS Norway Crewmember

June 23, 2003 – Norwegian Cruise Line is deeply saddened to report the death of an eighth crewmember as a result of the accident onboard the S/S Norway on May 25, 2003. Forty-four year old chef, Rolando Tejero, had been in intensive care since the accident. He had worked for NCL for 20 years onboard various ships including Norwegian Majesty, Norwegian Dream, Star Odyssey, Norwegian Crown, Starward, Southward, Skyward and the S/S Norway. Rolando Tejero was from Manila, Philippines. Our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with Rolando’s family.

Last week, the other five crewmembers who remained hospitalized were released. They are resting comfortably with family in Miami or at local hotels where they are receiving outpatient care. The five crewmembers who have been released are: Odeneil, Manaman, 35, a stoker from Laguna, Philippines who has worked for NCL for seven years; Paul Peralta, 34, a utility/hotel worker from Bacolod, Philippines who joined NCL in October last year; Julie Petalio, 28, a utility/hotel worker from Muntinlupa City, Philippines who is on his first contract with NCL; Ronnie Melicio, 26, a junior engine man from Cagayan de Oro, Philippines who joined NCL last year; and Dean Campbell, 22, a utility/hotel worker from Bluefields, Nicaragua, who joined NCL last December.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the U.S. Coast Guard have now completed their on-site investigation although the NTSB has stated that it may take a year to determine the cause of the accident. Norwegian Cruise Line is finalizing repair plans and will soon move the S/S Norway from Miami to a shipyard. NCL will distribute updates as they become available.

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OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESENTS EXPERTS TO LEAD ENRICHMENT LECTURES ON QUEEN MARY 2

MIAMI, June 23, 2003 - Immerse yourself in the passion of Jane Eyre. Examine how the ocean has influenced human life. Discover what has happened to the British monarchy since Princess Diana. Under a new partnership with England's prestigious University of Oxford, authors, historians, artists, scientists and celebrities will address these topics and more aboard Cunard Line's new Queen Mary 2, scheduled to debut in January 2004. 

The "Oxford Discovery" series will offer a variety of entertaining and expert guest speakers, classes and workshops as part of Cunard ConneXionssm, an innovative, new cultural enrichment and entertainment program that will be featured on transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton, England. Guests will be able to take courses on a variety of topics such as British and American music and culture of the 1960s, Shakespeare on Film, Modern Art from the Tate to the Met, and the Internet Explosion.

The wide variety of courses enables the program to change periodically, and guests will be able to view the course list on Cunard's website at least 90 days prior to departure. Queen Mary 2 has over 20,000 square feet of space dedicated to the lifelong learning process - more than any other ship afloat. The ConneXions facilities include seven classrooms and the only planetarium at sea.

"A QM2 transatlantic crossing gives you the luxury of time to pursue interests that you always put on the back burner at home," said Deborah Natansohn, senior vice president of sales and marketing, Cunard Line. "The Oxford Discovery program will allow our guests to interact with some of the world's top scholars in a relaxed environment."
 

Oxford Discovery will become a unique forum of perspectives, inspirations and possibilities. As the world's oldest English-speaking university, Oxford's internal resources and long-standing institutional and academic links are unparalleled. The university will select experts from leading educational institutions and cultural organizations in North America and Europe to take part in this new program. 

"Like Oxford, Cunard Line is an illustrious and historic British institution with an eye on the future," said Dr. Geoffrey Thomas, Oxford's director for continuing education. "We're delighted to have been asked to provide this uniquely enriching experience for Queen Mary 2 guests." Oxford has been a centre of higher learning for eight centuries. While there is no clear date of foundation, teaching existed in some form in 1096 and developed rapidly beginning in 1167, when Henry II banned English students from attending the University of Paris. Throughout its history, Oxford has produced gifted men and women in every sphere of human endeavor who have studied or taught at the University. Among these are four Kings, 46 Nobel prize-winners, 25 British Prime Ministers, six current holders of the Order of Merit, three Saints, 18 Cardinals, 86 Archbishops, and a U.S. President. 

The Oxford Discovery program is just one of the many highlights to be found on QM2. She will feature sweeping staircase, expansive promenades and luxurious accommodations for 2,620 guests; nearly three-quarters of which will have balconies. Among her extraordinary facilities are 10 dining venues, including the only shipboard restaurant by celebrity chef Todd English, the only Canyon Ranch SpaClub at sea, the world's first planetarium at sea, the largest ballroom at sea, the largest library at sea, and the largest wine collection at sea. 

The ship will also feature a Veuve Clicquot champagne bar, several other elegant bars and showrooms, a two-story theatre, a casino, five indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, boutiques, a pet kennel, and a children's facility, complete with British nannies. For more information on Queen Mary 2, consult a travel agent, call 1-800-7-CUNARD or visit the website at www.cunard.com.

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Disney Cruise Line Continues to Expand Itineraries With Series of Special Caribbean Cruise Vacations in 2004

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla., June 23 -- For the first time ever, Disney Cruise Line plans to include St. Lucia, Antigua and San Juan as scheduled ports of call on select sailings. In another first, Disney plans to embark on a 10-night holiday cruise vacation from Port Canaveral Dec. 18, 2004.

Plus, shore excursions for these and all other Disney Cruise Line vacations can now be reserved within 60 days prior to sailing.

                           New 2004 Itineraries

                       (Aug. 7, 21 &        (Sept. 18 &            (Dec. 18, 2004
                       Sept. 4, 2004)       Oct. 2, 2004)         10-NIGHT CRUISE)

  Saturday ...    *Port Canaveral    *Port Canaveral    *Port Canaveral
  Sunday ...      At Sea                  At Sea                   Key West
  Monday ...      At Sea                  At Sea                   At Sea
  Tuesday ...     St. Thomas           ANTIGUA                At Sea
  Wednesday ...   SAN JUAN           St. Thomas            St. Maarten
  Thursday ...    At Sea                  At Sea                   ST. LUCIA
  Friday ...       Castaway Cay        Castaway Cay         ANTIGUA
  Saturday ...                                                            St. Thomas
  Sunday ...                                                              At Sea
  Monday ...                                                              Castaway Cay

  * indicates port of embarkation

St. Lucia is a small, lush tropical island located between Martinique and St. Vincent, north of Barbados. Its eastern shore hugs the Atlantic Ocean, while its west coast borders the Caribbean Sea. Its dramatic twin coastal peaks soar 2,000 feet up from the sea, sheltering magnificent rain forests. It's dotted with aged fortresses, small villages and open-air markets, and popular among snorkelers, scuba divers, hikers and bird-watchers.

Antigua is the largest of the British Leeward islands. Located just 17 degrees north of the equator and south and east of Nevis, St. Kitts, St. Barts and St. Martin, Antigua is best known for its magnificent coral reef, beautiful harbor, winding coastline and powdery soft beaches.

San Juan is the second oldest city in the Americas and the oldest under the U.S. flag. Old San Juan is a 465-year-old neighborhood that has evolved into a charming residential and commercial district. San Juan's beach and resort area is dotted with hotels, casinos, nightclubs, restaurants and boutiques.

Disney Cruise Line offers seven-night eastern and western Caribbean vacations, three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas, and land/sea packages that combine the fun and excitement of the Walt Disney World Resort with the enchantment of a Disney Cruise Line voyage to the Bahamas. Shore excursions can now be booked in advance by calling (877) 566-0968, e-mailing requests along with the guest's name and reservation number to or faxing a shore excursion request form to (407) 566-7031. Forms can be downloaded from www.disneycruise.com. Guests who do not pre-reserve excursions can visit the Shore Excursions desk on their day of embarkation to check availability and make reservations. 

Disney Cruise Line vacations feature magical entertainment, age-specific programming and unique dining experiences. Disney's seven-night vacations begin at $829, while the 10-night holiday cruise starts at $1,899. Rates are per person, based on double occupancy, with discounted fares available to additional guests in each stateroom and guests under the age of 13. Government taxes and fees are not included. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a Disney Cruise Line vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit www.disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at (888) DCL-2500 or (888) 325-2500.

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Royal Caribbean International Covers New Ground
Cross-Country 'Get Out There' Tour Brings Cruise Experience to a Town Near You

MIAMI, June 23  -- The cruise line that changed the face of cruising is now bringing its distinctive onboard experience to an unusual new destination... land. Royal Caribbean has launched the "Get Out There" tour, which is crisscrossing the country to give land-locked travelers a taste of the line's cruise vacations. The "Get Out There" tour is scheduled to make more than 60 stops through the end of next year. The tour will visit cities in all regions of the country from coast to coast.

"There are still many Americans who haven't cruised yet, and perhaps haven't even considered cruising because they don't know what to expect or have misperceptions of what cruising is really like," said Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president, Marketing and Sales, for Royal Caribbean International. "We've decided to bring the cruise experience to them and let them sample the activities, amenities and adventures Royal Caribbean guests enjoy on their vacations."

The centerpiece of the tour is a one-of-a-kind truck that is as innovative as Royal Caribbean's industry-leading ships. The custom-built trailer transforms into a 40-foot high, scale model of the line's newest Voyager-class ship. Designed from the actual blueprints of Navigator of the Seas, the attraction includes a 47-seat theater where guests can learn more about the cruise experience and the wide range of vacation options offered by Royal Caribbean.

Visitors also have the chance to try their hand (and feet) at a mobile version of the line's signature rock-climbing wall. The walls, which are extremely popular with guests of all ages, are being installed fleetwide this year. Stations throughout the "Get Out There" tour area give visitors a chance to learn more about cruise options in Europe, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Hawaii and the Caribbean. Visitors also can request additional information at interactive kiosks; sign up for a Royal Caribbean Platinum Plus Visa card, which allows users to earn points toward free merchandise, onboard amenities, upgrades, cruise discounts and free cruises; and even book a cruise on-site.

Royal Caribbean leads the industry in innovative ships, amenities and onboard programs that appeal to travelers who want to experience more during their vacation. From outstanding dining options to a variety of onboard entertainment to the award-winning Adventure Ocean Youth Program, Royal Caribbean offers unique and unexpected experiences to guests of all ages. Fitness buffs will enjoy the ShipShape Fitness Center and Spa facilities and activities from sunrise jogs to pick-up basketball games. For junior travelers, Adventure Ocean keeps kids "edu-tained" with the Adventure Science, Adventure Art by Crayola(R), and Sail Into Story Time programs. Port days offer even more exciting options for cruisers -- from scuba diving to glacier trekking -- through the line's Explorations! shore excursion program.

The models for the "Get Out There" tour truck, Royal Caribbean's Voyager- class ships are the world's largest and most innovative cruise ships, packed with activities, including an ice skating rink, rock-climbing wall, in-line skating track, basketball court and mini-golf course. The Voyager-class ships -- Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, and Mariner of the Seas, which joins the fleet in November 2003 -- also feature the Royal Promenade, an indoor shopping, dining and entertainment street longer than a football field running through the center of the ship.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 16 ships in service and three more under construction. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com or call 800-327-6700.

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Carnival Cruise Lines' 1,486-Passenger Jubilee to Be Transferred To P&O Cruises Australia in Fall 2004

MIAMI, June 23 -- At its annual general meeting for shareholders held in Southampton, England, Carnival Corporation & plc announced that Carnival Cruise Lines' 1,486-passenger Jubilee will be transferred to P&O Cruises Australia in fall 2004, more than doubling the size of the brand's operations in the region. The 47,262-ton Jubilee, which will be renamed, will be the largest cruise ship based year-round in Australia. She will join the Pacific Sky that is also based year round in Australia and together both ships will deliver a fun, easygoing holiday experience to their passengers.

The Jubilee and Pacific Sky will sail year-round on seven- to 14-day cruises to the South Pacific islands of New Caledonia, Fiji, Vanuata and Tonga as well as to New Zealand and Australia, including a schedule from Brisbane for part of the year, opening up a new market for P&O Cruises Australia. The opportunity of the arrival of the Jubilee will also be taken to extend the seasonal deployment of the Pacific Sky in New Zealand, supporting the further growth of this market.

These two Australian fun ships will join the premium cruise ship Pacific Princess, which is also deployed in the Australian market for part of the year. Upon the completion of its service for Carnival Cruise Lines, the Jubilee will undergo a multi-million-dollar refurbishment to assume the characteristics of a typical P&O Cruises Australian fun ship.

"We are continually exploring opportunities to take advantage of the synergies that exist within the various Carnival Corp. & plc brands. The transfer of the Jubilee to P&O Cruises Australia is yet another example of optimizing asset utilization to benefit our brands and maximize returns for the group," said Carnival Corp. & plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison. He noted that while no immediate timetable has been finalized, the Jubilee will be deployed in Australia in time for the 2004 summer cruise season, which begins in November.

Added P&O Princess Cruises Chief Executive Officer Peter Ratcliffe, "We are very pleased that the Jubilee will begin sailing under the P&O Cruises Australia banner next year. Australia and New Zealand are rapidly growing cruise markets and the addition of the Jubilee significantly expands our presence in the region while enabling P&O Cruises Australia to upgrade its product offerings with amenities and facilities desired by today's consumers." Ratcliffe added that P&O Cruises Australia carries approximately 61,000 passengers a year and the addition of the Jubilee is expected to increase the brand's annual passenger counts to more than 150,000.

The Swedish-built Jubilee, which entered service in May 1986, currently operates four- and five-day Mexico sailings from Galveston, Texas, and will begin a seven-day Caribbean cruise program from San Juan in September. Its eight passenger decks house three restaurants, a health and fitness facility, and 10 bars and lounges, including a 1,000-seat multi-level theater. Other features include three swimming pools -- one with a 115-foot-long water slide -- a casino, a library, an Internet cafe and a children's play room.

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Royal Caribbean International Rebuilds Bahamas Coral Reef

MIAMI, June 20 -- Crew members of Royal Caribbean International's Sovereign of the Seas and the cruise line's Aquatics Department are spearheading an initiative using concrete "reef balls" to rebuild a coral reef in the waters off CocoCay, its private island in the Bahamas. CocoCay provides a virtual paradise for more than a half-million Royal Caribbean guests annually, through snorkeling, swimming, and other beach and water-related activities. The island is home to many breathtaking natural characteristics, from underwater limestone formations that create a perfect habitat for many marine organisms, to coastal flats with an abundance of fish and plant life. The reef restoration effort will counteract the effects of time and tropical weather conditions that have contributed to the deterioration of the reef adjacent to the island.

The restoration project involves the placement of what are called reef balls. The balls look similar to giant whiffle balls, made of a marine-friendly concrete, measuring up to four feet across by three feet tall and weighing as much as 1,750 pounds. The reef balls will be placed in two locations around CocoCay. Those placed in shallower waters, closer to shore, will increase and enhance fish habitat and will act as a snorkeling path that leads guests to areas of interest. Balls placed in deeper waters will assist in coral propagation. These balls also will be seeded with coral plugs to further spur the coral reef's growth. Underwater and shoreside signs will explain what guests are seeing as they view the reef balls and tell how guests may help in protecting the island's environment.

"Our reef restoration project is another excellent example of how dedicated our employees are to the ocean environments in which we sail," said Capt. Bill Wright, senior vice president of Safety, Security and Environment for Royal Caribbean International. "I congratulate the Sovereign of the Seas crew and our Aquatics staff for their strong environmental efforts, both onboard ship and at CocoCay."

Sovereign of the Seas was honored as Royal Caribbean's 2001 Environmental Ship of the Year. For that accomplishment, the ship was given a $25,000 grant to use with an environmental charity or project. The ship's crew members and the Aquatics Department are applying the $25,000 to the project in cooperation with the Reef Ball Foundation. The company's Aquatics staff on the island will work with the ship's crew members to construct some 200 reef balls in six different fiberglass molds, as well as deploy them through the use of air bladders inflated within the balls. That work will be done when the ship makes its twice-weekly visits to CocoCay, during its three- and four-night Caribbean sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. Guests onboard Sovereign of the Seas will be informed of reef ball deployment activities so they may observe. Guests also will be able to examine an actual reef ball near the island's shoreline, where one will be displayed with informational materials explaining their use and the company's effort to restore the near-by reef.

A monitoring program will be put in place to track the progress of the reef balls' underwater developments. It will include the marking of each reef ball, underwater photography, pH measurements of the water, and fish population and coral growth assessments. Additional information on the Reef Ball Foundation and reef ball use around the world may be found at www.reefball.org. The site's "Photo Gallery" includes pictures of Royal Caribbean's activity at CocoCay.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 16 ships in service and three more under construction. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com. 

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Wellness Alliance Ushered in on High Seas
The Cleveland Clinic & Tai Chi Cultural Center Among Latest To Partner With Crystal Cruises' Creative Learning Institute

LOS ANGELES, June 19 -- From the ground-breaking advances of western science to the ancient philosophies of eastern medicine, Crystal Cruises has added a comprehensive program of wellness and enrichment to its innovative Creative Learning Institute set to debut aboard the new Crystal Serenity next month, featuring two of the most preeminent names in health, fitness and well-being. The stature of The Cleveland Clinic and the wisdom of the Tai Chi Cultural Center are combined to create a progressive series of interactive classes, allowing guests to customize a curriculum of courses tailored to their own personal well-being.

"The Creative Learning Institute was created to enhance wellness and true personal enrichment through group learning and individual discovery," says Bret Bullock, Crystal's vice president, entertainment. "Our alliances with such renowned institutions as The Cleveland Clinic and Tai Chi Cultural Center bring a whole new dimension to the pampering service and relaxing ambience found aboard Crystal Serenity."

As with all CLI programs, the wellness seminars are complimentary and offered in several venues, including The Studio, a new, dedicated state-of-the-art "edutainment" facility aboard Crystal Serenity. Here, specialists from The Cleveland Clinic, many recognized as experts in their respective fields by the consumer guide "America's Top Doctors," will lead seminars on health and wellness topics relevant to today's society. From neurology and cardiology to arthritis to osteoporosis, courses will feature leading-edge information, Question and Answer and Meet-the-Doctor sessions. With a focus on prevention, seminars include topics such as How to be Ageless and Growing Better-Not Just Older.

The ancient Chinese practice of tai chi finds a natural home at the Creative Learning Institute, a concept centered on wellness and personal enrichment. Instruction will be lead by tai chi master Martin Lee, PhD, a research physicist at Stanford University and founder of the Tai Chi Cultural Center, and his family. Especially beneficial for seniors, this martial arts discipline combines intense mental focus with deliberate, graceful movements that improve strength, agility and balance. In its literal translation, tai chi means to be one with nature, and in keeping with movements such as White Crane Spreading Wings, Parting the Wild Horse's Mane, and Embracing the Tree, instruction will be offered outside on deck, ideally in the early morning hours to avoid direct sunlight and wind. "The beauty of world discovery as seen from the decks of the luxurious Crystal Serenity will add an enriching dimension to the joy of self discovery that is revealed through tai chi," says Dr. Lee.

Each cruise will feature an array of wellness seminars and classes, including: Aerobics, Aqua Moves, Body Sculpting, Cardio Ki-Bo, Circuit Training, Detox For Life, Eat More To Weigh Less, Healthy Abs and Back, Pathway to Yoga, Pilates, Step Aerobics, Stretch and Relax and Sunrise Power Walk.

Additionally, classes in Advances in Medicine; Alternative Medicine; Adult/Infant CPR; Dance: African, Ballet, Ballroom, Disco, Flamenco, Hawaiian, Jazz, Salsa, Samba, Swing, Tango, and Tap; Golf: Adverse Conditions, Bunker Play, Equipment, Golf Basics, Practice Methods, Putting and Chipping, Rules Review, Slicing and Hooking, Swing Analysis, and Trivia; Healthy Aging, Heart Health, Karate, Memory Fitness, Men's Health, Nutrition, Skin Care, Sports Health, Weight Management, Women's Health and Yoga will be offered. Upon completion, guests will receive a Crystal Creative Learning Institute certificate in Wellness. Other onboard activities include paddle tennis courts, table tennis, shuffleboard, a driving range and putting green with Callaway golf equipment.

About Cleveland Clinic
An expert in health and wellness seminars, The Cleveland Clinic is dedicated to promoting the education and well-being of its patients and the public through aggressive information sharing channels. It is regarded as the premier US institution for heart transplants, earning its heart center recognition as the best in America for eight consecutive years by US News & World Report. The progressive medical and surgical therapies at the Clinic have actually reduced the number of transplants the hospital performs.

About Tai Chi Cultural Center
Founded by the husband and wife team of Martin and Emily Lee, both tai chi masters and inner disciples of tai chi and pa kua Grand Master Kuo Lien-Ying, the Los Altos, California-based Tai Chi Cultural Center is dedicated to helping people achieve better health, healing, happiness and harmony. Accumulating their experience in study, teaching and practice, the Lees are renowned for their knowledge and instruction of tai chi and meditation.

About Creative Learning Institute
Innovative in concept and progressive in nature, the Creative Learning Institute is an extensive new series of interactive classes providing comprehensive instruction focusing on improving wellness and enhancing quality of life. In keeping with Crystal's penchant for quality alliances, the newly-minted CLI is partnering with well-known organizations and schools, from The Cleveland Clinic and Tai Chi Cultural Center to Berlitz, Yamaha, Society of Wine Educators, Pepperdine University, Parsons School of Design, BOOK magazine and Barnes&Noble.com among others -- to bring experts in their respective fields aboard to share their knowledge in a classroom setting. Offered as a series of classes vs. single lectures, the CLI curriculums feature progressive levels of instruction on a single subject or several one-class sessions of related topics. The "five pillars" comprising the CLI include:

  • Arts & Entertainment -- from Asian woodblock printing, interior design
    and keyboard lessons to advertising, jewelry design and acting workshops.

  • Business & Technology -- from Computer University@Sea, estate planning
    and fundraising to philanthropy, real estate appraisal and patent
    applications.

  • Lifestyle -- from book clubs, bridge, candle making and home organization
    to floral and interior design, make-up artistry, menu planning, sewing
    and pattern making and successful grand parenting.

  • Wellness -- from advances in medicine, alternative medicine, dance and
    fitness classes, yoga, tai chi and ki bo, to skin care, sports health,
    nutrition, memory fitness, and men's and women's health.

  • Wine & Food -- from beginning sushi, sake, bread making, cheeses, caviar,
    the art of serving, soups, sauces, salads, pastry making, dim sum and
    chocolate deserts to the wines of Champagne, Italy, Chile, California and
    Bordeaux.

The Creative Learning Institute is the latest development in Crystal's highly-regarded Crystal Visions Enrichment Program of renowned speakers, special interest lecturers and celebrities, and is slated to roll out aboard Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony in 2004.

About Crystal
Crystal Cruises currently operates the 50,000-ton, 940-guest sister ships, Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony, two of the most spacious and luxurious vessels cruising the world. The newest member of Crystal Cruises' Six-Star-rated fleet, at 68,000 tons, Crystal Serenity will feature a higher space-per-guest ratio than her sister ships, expanded areas for spa services and other athletic, cultural and intellectual pursuits, an increased number of penthouses, and enlarged staterooms.

Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure, call 800.820.6663. Visit the web site at www.crystalcruises.com.

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Young Cruisers Sail into Story Time with New Royal Caribbean Adventure Ocean Program
Creative Activities Bring Popular Children's Books to Life

MIAMI, June 19 -- Royal Caribbean International is enlisting monsters and pirates and a very hungry caterpillar to get young cruisers excited about reading. The line's industry-leading Adventure Ocean Youth Program has added a new book-focused curriculum to its "edu-tainment" lineup for its younger guests. The Sail into Story Time program combines popular children's books with creative, hands-on activities and projects designed to spark imaginations and keep kids ages 3 through 8 entertained. The new fleetwide program rounds out Adventure Ocean's current edu-tainment offerings -- Adventure Science and Adventure Art by Crayola®.

"From science experiments and pottery projects to our new story time activities, Adventure Ocean is designed with the idea that our youngest guests can enjoy learning while having a great time on vacation," said Charly McDonald, Adventure Ocean specialist for Royal Caribbean International. "Sail into Story Time helps them develop a love of reading and uses books to spark kids' imaginations and inspire creativity."

Sail into Story Time brings some of the most endearing and enduring children's titles to life. Three- to 5-year-olds share classics such as "Where the Wild Things Are," "The Giving Tree," and "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," while 6- to 8-year-olds enjoy "The Stinky Cheese Man," "Weird Parents," and "Do Pirates Take Baths?".

Following each story, kids participate in age-appropriate activities designed to reinforce themes from the books through arts and crafts, dramatic projects and creative play. For example, after enjoying "Where the Wild Things Are," young cruisers are turned loose on a no-holds-barred, yet youth-staff supervised, "wild rumpus" of their own, while older kids who listen to "Do Pirates Take Baths?" are challenged to create an authentic-looking treasure map that would do a pirate proud.

Extending the emphasis on reading, Royal Caribbean is also introducing a special Adventure Ocean books program for guests 3 to 11, which will add three new titles each month to build age-appropriate libraries. The collections on each ship will be designed to reflect that ship's itinerary and destinations so kids can learn about the animals, people, culture, and history of the areas they visit. The libraries will also include recent popular fiction releases, as well as classic titles.

Adventure Ocean is one of the industry's leading shipboard youth programs, with leading-edge programming and innovative facilities. The program offers five designated age groups: Aquanauts (3-5), Explorers (6-8), Voyagers (9-11), Navigators (12-14) and Guests (15-17). Each group is overseen by highly trained youth staff. Activities include art and science projects, theme nights, talent shows, dance parties and scavenger hunts. Teens can also surf the web and send emails to friends back home on Adventure Ocean's dedicated computers.

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Royal Caribbean's New Holiday and Entertainment Cookbook Offers Tips and Recipes for Special Occasions Year-Round 
Available Nationwide -- Just in Time for Summer Party Planning

MIAMI, June 19 -- Just in time for summer, Royal Caribbean's own Master Chef Rudi Sodamin shares his ideas for planning, preparing and presenting the perfect party and holiday fare in The Royal Caribbean International Holiday & Entertainment Cookbook. From creating an ideal ambiance to serving up delightful recipes, the book offers helpful advice and creative menus for social occasions, birthday celebrations, cocktail parties, cookouts and holidays throughout the year, from New Year's Eve to Rosh Hashanah to Kwanzaa.

"Whether you are hosting 15 people or 1,500, a successful party lies in the details," Chef Rudi said. "This new cookbook shares some of the insights I've learned through my experiences working with Royal Caribbean and making sure each holiday is special and memorable for cruise guests."

The new cookbook is available onboard all Royal Caribbean cruise ships, nationwide at bookstores, and through online book retailers, just in time for summer holiday and party planning. Each chapter focuses on a different occasion and includes a brief overview or history, decoration and serving tips, and a medley of mouth-watering recipes.

Highlights include vegetable spring rolls in a spicy peanut sauce, chilled buttermilk tomato and avocado soup, tenderloin in peppercorn sauce, salmon with mustard sauce, and Beef Wellington with a buttery bearnaise sauce. Then, there are the delectable desserts: old-fashioned apple pie, caramel-fudge brownies, brandied pumpkin pie with fruit sauce and creme fraiche, and buttercream frosted cupcakes are just a selection of the sweets in store.

Party planners may want to try out new table decorating and festive lighting ideas or get into full swing this summer with a deck party, complete with exotic flavors, tropical music and colorful cocktails. Rudi offers the following tips and recipe ideas to celebrate the season:

  • Set the mood for an all-American celebration this Fourth of July, with outdoor camp lanterns and red, white and blue lights strung from trees and deck railings. Fill milk jugs with festive red and white carnations and blue irises, then start the evening off with a bang with Firecracker Shrimp.

  • Plan an evening garden party featuring tasty appetizers spread out on tables throughout the party area -- they'll keep guests from clustering in one place. Try High Society Sates with Hoisin Dipping Sauce, an exotic entree that guests can enjoy while mingling.

  • Throw a summer pool or deck party to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather, with tropical cocktail favorites served in colorful glasses with mini parasols. Outdoor parties tend to be casual, but add a twist to traditional fare by serving Lentil and Chickpea Burgers with Cilantro Garlic Cream Sauce. Cap off the evening with Promenade Peach Cobbler.

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Fall Cruises Offer Unusual Ports, Extended Voyages, Great Value

NEW YORK, June 19 -- Cooling fall temperatures herald hot cruise deals as some cruise lines reposition ships for winter sailings and others offer extraordinary autumn itineraries, according to Cruise Lines International Association, which represents the North American cruise industry. For those unable to get away during summer months or those who prefer to vacation after youngsters have returned to school, CLIA has some suggestions for fall cruising vacations.

"Fall is a fantastic time to indulge in a unique cruise itinerary or perhaps a longer cruise experience," notes Bob Sharak, CLIA's executive director. "Repositioning from summer to winter waters means travelers can enjoy unusual ports-of-call along less-frequented routes and spend more time taking in all the pampering and luxury associated with a cruise."

Repositioning and fall cruises offered by CLIA member lines include:

  • American Cruise Lines' American Eagle and American Glory both sail 15-day "East Coast Inland Passage Cruises" departing Nov. 1.

  • Bora Bora Cruises' two new ships, Tia Moana and Tu Moana, join their predecessor Haumana to cruise the waters of Tahiti, with visits to the islands of Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa and Huahine.

  • Three Carnival Cruise Lines' ships offer 14-day repositioning cruises via the Panama Canal. Carnival Pride departs Miami on Sept. 7 to Long Beach, Calif.; Elation sets sail Sept. 14 from Long Beach to Galveston, Texas; and Carnival Spirit heads from San Diego to Miami Nov. 1.

  • Celebrity Cruises' Constellation sets off Oct. 24 on a 15-night voyage from Barcelona to San Juan. Millennium departs Barcelona Oct. 26 on a 14-night transatlantic sailing to Port Everglades. Infinity caps its Alaska season with a 12-night cruise from Vancouver on Sept. 26 to Honolulu.

  • Westbound from Genoa, Italy to Fort Lauderdale, Costa Cruises' CostaMediterranea and CostaAtlantica make 16-night transatlantic crossings beginning Nov. 5 and Dec. 5, respectively.

  • Crystal Cruises' Crystal Serenity departs Nov. 6 on an 11-day Lisbon to Fort Lauderdale itinerary. Crystal Symphony completes its fall season with a 12-day Oct. 7 cruise from Montreal to Fort Lauderdale. Crystal Harmony departs San Francisco Sept. 18 on a 17-day voyage to Fort Lauderdale.

  • Cunard's Caronia presents a seven-day roundtrip fall "Ireland/France Sampler." The ship departs Oct. 18 from Southampton, England and visits Dublin and Cobh (Cork), Ireland; Falmouth, England; St. Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands; and Honfleur, France.

  • Disney Cruise Line offers year-round seven-night eastern and western Caribbean cruises, and four-night sailings with stops at the Bahamas and the line's private island, Castaway Cay.

  • First European Cruises' Mistral features a nine-night repositioning cruise departing from Kiel, Germany on Sept. 21 to Genoa, Italy. European Vision begins a 14-night journey on Nov. 30 from Genoa and to Santo Domingo.

  • Dazzling fall foliage, exotic ports of call, world capitals and ancient ruins await travelers who take one of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' Mediterranean and Baltic seas fall cruises. Cruises depart September through October for 13 to 28 nights.

  • Holland America Line's Zaandam sets sail Sept. 20 from Vancouver to Port Canaveral, Fla. on a 21-day repositioning cruise transiting the Panama Canal.

  • MSC Italian Cruises' Melody sets sail from Genoa, Italy Nov. 26 on an 18-day journey to Rio de Janeiro that includes nine days at sea.

  • Norwegian Coastal Voyage's Brand Polaris hosts a 12-day Greenland to Iceland expedition cruise Sept. 8-19 that includes an eight-day cruise and three nights at a Reykjavik hotel.

  • Norwegian Cruise Line ships feature repositioning cruises from five to 17 days, including a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Sept. 7 from London, England and ending in Boston, as well as Panama Canal passages.

  • Oceania Cruises' Regatta hosts a 14-day "Voyage of the Explorers" sailing from Lisbon to Miami departing Nov. 10. The voyage includes nine days at sea.

  • Orient Lines' Marco Polo departs Southampton, England on Nov. 25 for a 19-day "Southern Crossing" to Bridgetown, Barbados. Crown Odyssey travels from Pireaus, Greece to Baltimore on Aug. 24 for a 23-day voyage.

  • Two Princess Cruises' vessels feature transatlantic crossings. Golden Princess offers a seven-day London to New York itinerary while the Regal Princess features a 16-day Copenhagen to New York sailing. The cruise line also offers four Panama Canal transits.

  • Radisson Seven Seas Cruises' Radisson Diamond sails Nov. 9 on a nine-night transatlantic crossing from Funchal to San Juan. The Seven Seas Voyager embarks on a nine-night Nov. 9 sailing from Las Palmas to Fort Lauderdale for its maiden visit to the U.S.

  • Royal Caribbean International's Serenade of the Seas presents a nine-night Philadelphia to San Juan repositioning departing Oct. 30. Splendour of the Seas 15-night westbound transatlantic voyage sets sail Nov. 2 from Lisbon to Galveston.

  • Royal Olympia Cruises' Olympia Voyager offers an 18-day westbound transatlantic cruise Nov. 11 from Piraeus, Greece to Port Everglades. Sister-ship Olympia Explorer sails Nov. 6 on an 18-day westbound transatlantic cruise from Piraeus to Port Canaveral.

  • Seabourn Cruise Line's Seabourn Pride hosts a 13-day "Great American Food & Wine Festival" cruise while repositioning from New York to Nassau on Oct. 25.

  • Adventurers discover Greenland on a 12-day repositioning cruise aboard Silversea Cruises' Silver Whisper. Departing Reykjavik, Iceland on Aug. 30, the vessel travels to Montreal. Silver Wind's 12-day "Tropical Crossing" departs Oct. 23 from Tenerife for Barbados.

  • Swan Hellenic's "In the Footsteps of Columbus" 15-day transatlantic cruise sets sail Dec. 6 from Lisbon, Portugal on its way to Bridgetown, Barbados.

  • Windstar Cruises offers two 14-day transatlantic crossings, both departing from Lisbon. The Wind Surf heads for Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 16 while the Wind Spirit sails for St. Thomas on Nov. 22.

For more information about cruising, visit CLIA's website, www.cruising.org.

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NEW ISLAND PRINCESS TO LAUNCH IN JULY WITH HISTORIC VANCOUVER NAMING CEREMONY
Shipyard Delivers Latest Princess Vessel; Will Become First Cruise Ship Ever Christened in Canadian Port 

Princess Cruises celebrated another addition to the family as it formally took delivery of its newest vessel, Island Princess. The 92,000-ton ship was delivered to the company at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyards in St. Nazaire, France, and is currently on its way to Vancouver where it will be the first cruise ship ever christened in the Canadian port city, on July 11 at the ship's berth in Canada Place.  

"We are very excited to be able to announce that Island Princess will be formally and aptly named in the picturesque harbor of the world's loveliest cities. In addition to making local history, we see this christening ceremony as a way to celebrate Princess' long association with Port of Vancouver, which has served as a home base for our Alaska sailings for more than 30 years," said Dean Brown, executive vice president of customer service and sales. 

"We're so pleased that Princess has decided to christen the new Island Princess here," said Terry Bubb, chair of the Tourism Vancouver board of directors. "Princess ships have long been an integral part of our Canada Place summer landscape, and the thousands of passengers we are able to welcome each year as these ships come and go from our port has a significant and positive bearing on our local economy. We are honored to be selected to host this special event, and to be forever linked to the heritage and history of Island Princess, as she will be to Vancouver." 

The 1,970-passenger Island Princess, sister ship to the popular Coral Princess which debuted earlier this year, will begin its premiere Gulf of Alaska season on July 12. The ship will be based at home ports in Vancouver and Seward for seven-day northbound or southbound Gulf of Alaska cruises, redeploying to the Panama Canal in the autumn. 

Island Princess offers an array of signature Princess amenities, including the line's largest number of staterooms with private balconies. Highlights include the Bayou Café, a unique New Orleans-style restaurant; and the Universe Lounge, a dramatic two-deck performance venue equipped with the latest lighting and digital sound and video systems. This lounge is also home to the new ScholarShip@Sea enrichment program, which will keep passengers entertained with classes in culinary arts, photography, web design and ceramics, among others. 

"If the popularity of her sister vessel is any indication, Island Princess will certainly join Coral Princess as a must-sail for those passengers seeking a wide variety of choice over the course of their vacation. Her innovative panamax design, wide variety of onboard offerings, increased private balcony options, and unique profile are proving to be a very winning combination," noted Brown.

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Updated CLIA Website Offers Latest Information on Ships In Fleet 

NEW YORK, June 18 -- The most up-to-date information on the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) members and fleet is now available in an enhanced format on CLIA's website, www.cruising.org. A click on the "Cruise Line and Ship Profiles" option on the CLIA home page takes site visitors to a list of the 24 cruise lines that make up CLIA, the association representing the North American cruise industry. Clicking on an individual line opens a company profile and links to details about the cruise lines' individual ships.

"In response to requests from CLIA travel agents and consumers, we have upgraded the website to include more information in an easily accessible format and have introduced new features such as deck plans," says Bob Sharak, CLIA's executive director. "In this age of Internet information, this is a valuable resource to both consumers and travel agents."

The entry for each member line includes information about the cruise line and its specialties, fleetwide programs and facilities. Visitors can also order a brochure and link back to a CLIA-affiliated travel agency. Clicking on the name of an individual ship reveals details such as deck plans and accommodations/amenities/facilities specific to each ship as well as an assortment of photos.

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SEABOURN PUBLISHES 2004-2005 CRUISE BROCHURE
116-Page Annual Includes First Quarter 2005 Schedules, New Amenities.

 
MIAMI, June 18, 2003 -- Ultra luxury small ship specialist Seabourn Cruise Line has published a complete cruise guide for voyages aboard the intimate, all-suite Yachts of Seabourn throughout 2004 and the first quarter of 2005.

The 116-page, full-color brochure, which was produced in an "album-style" horizontal format, provides complete details of the 208-guest sister ships: Seabourn Pride, Seabourn Spirit and Seabourn Legend, along with the array of Signature Delights that provide Seabourn's guests with an exceptionally pampered and all-inclusive onboard experience.

The new brochure announces the introduction of several added touches of luxury for 2004 that are sure to please Seabourn's upscale clientele:
  • Handsome new document portfolios and baggage tags made exclusively for Seabourn by prestige luggage and accessory maker Tumi.
  • Exquisite new bed linens and duvet covers from the 143-year old Italian firm Frette.
  • An expanded golf program that allows Seabourn guests to play at over a hundred of the world's most challenging and beautiful courses in over 90 ports worldwide.

"Next year The Yachts of Seabourn will be sailing to great new destinations, with a tremendous menu of value-added benefits for our guests," said Richard D. Meadows, Seabourn's senior vice president of sales and marketing. "This new brochure clearly illustrates, point by point, why guests sailing on Seabourn in 2004 will experience the best cruise product Seabourn has ever offered."


Fares for 2004 feature Early Booking Savings of up to 50 percent off for those who reserve well ahead of departure. These savings are published in the brochure. However, savings may be reduced or withdrawn either for certain categories or for whole departures as each ships' 104 ultra luxury suites are reserved. Combinations of consecutive cruises totaling up to 17 days in length will earn an additional 10 percent Combo Savings in addition to the Early Booking Savings. Longer consecutive combinations totaling 18 or more days qualify for Grand Voyage Savings totaling 50 percent off the published full fare. 

"We are also publishing fares for early 2005 cruises in this book," said Meadows. "But those fares will almost certainly go up by the time we publish the complete 2005 annual. We will protect anyone who books a 2005 cruise through the end of 2003 at the rates in this brochure," he added.

To acquire a copy of the 2004-2005 Seabourn Cruise Annual, contact a professional travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9595 or visit www.seabourn.com.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Expands Homeland Cruising to Los Angeles With 8-Day Mexican Riviera Cruises
Norwegian Star to Offer Four Exotic Ports Including Acapulco Exclusive

Miami, June 16, 2003 -Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) heads to California next year when it brings Freestyle Cruising to Los Angeles. The industry innovator announced today that following its first season in Alaska, 2,240-passenger Norwegian Star, purpose built for Freestyle Cruising, will reposition to Los Angeles next fall to offer NCL's first regularly scheduled weekly Mexican Riviera cruises beginning September 26, 2004.

The exotic itinerary features the industry's only weekly cruise to include the Mexican Rivera's most famous playground, Acapulco, with a full day and overnight stay. The cruise also includes a call into Zihuatanejo, the traditional favorites of Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas and three days at sea all aboard one of NCL's most popular ships.

"With Norwegian Star's speed, we can offer a truly unique 8-day itinerary on one of our most modern and innovative ships," said Colin Veitch, NCL's president and CEO. "Vacationers aboard Norwegian Star will enjoy the flexibility and freedom of choice that characterizes the West Coast spirit combined with an itinerary offering a real choice for repeat Mexican Riviera cruisers and the most exciting itinerary available for first timers."

Norwegian Star's roundtrip departures from Los Angeles continue through April 30, 2005. Cruises go on sale Wednesday, June 18, with prices starting from $649.

The itinerary:

Day                    Port                       Arrive                Depart
0               Los Angeles                  - -                   4:00 pm
1                    At Sea 
2                    At Sea
3            Acapulco, Mexico            11:00 am              - -
4            Acapulco, Mexico              - -                   2:00 am
5     Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa, Mexico     9:00 am            4:00 pm
6        Puerto Vallarta, Mexico        9:00 am            5:00 pm
7       Cabo San Lucas, Mexico        8:00 am            4:00 pm
8                    At Sea
9               Los Angeles                 7:00 am 

A Star Like No Other
Norwegian Star offers a wide variety of onboard options. With an incredible choice of 10 different world-cuisine restaurants (not including bars and cafés) and 11 menus, Norwegian Star gives guests the opportunity to dine in a different restaurant every night of the week without ever visiting the main dining room. A broad range of gourmet and ethnic restaurant choices include: Spanish Tapas, Pacific Rim Fusion, French classic, Teppanyaki, Hawaiian, Japanese (including sushi and tempura bars), authentic Italian and traditional American and Continental cuisine.

Norwegian Star boasts over 500 staterooms and suites with private balconies. Most notably, the top of Norwegian Star is home to two, 5,350 square-foot, multi-room Garden Villas each featuring a large living room, dining room, three separate ensuite bedrooms with entertainment center and luxury bath with whirlpool tub and separate shower. Each villa opens up to a private themed garden complex with hot tub, lounge and dining area and a huge private rooftop terrace. Butler service and concierge service is always available. Seventy percent of cabins are outside staterooms and over 70 percent of these have balconies. Thirty-six suites, 372 standard staterooms with balconies, and an entire deck of 107 mini-suites with balconies are among the spacious and well-appointed accommodations located on the 15-deck ship.

The ship also features a two-deck fitness and spa center; a huge children's facility with separate teen areas; an Internet Café and wireless remote Internet access (WiFi) in public areas around the ship. A state-of-the-art casino will be added in Dazzles nightclub, according to the ship's original design, after the ship leaves Hawaii in April 2004.

Freestyle Cruising allows for freedom of choice with a completely flexible dining schedule and open seating at any of the numerous restaurants onboard. The attire is resort casual with optional formal nights, gratuities are automatically included on the bill, and final disembarkation is more relaxed and hassle-free. NCL has increased the number of crew aboard each ship to offer the highest crew-to-passenger ratio. On Norwegian Star, a ratio of roughly one crewmember per cabin is the highest in the Mexican Rivera.

Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line is an international cruise company and industry innovator. NCL is the leader in round-trip seven-day cruising from US and Canadian ports, offering its popular Homeland Cruising program seasonally from Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Orlando (Port Canaveral), San Juan, Seattle and Vancouver, and year round from New York, Miami, Houston and Honolulu.

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PRINCESS MAKES DRAMATIC EXPANSION IN HAWAII 
WITH 2004-05 SCHEDULE
Larger Ship Deployed on Route Due to Popular Demand; Departures Double

The popularity of Princess' current schedule of Hawaii cruises has prompted the company to more than double its capacity for the upcoming 2004-05 season. The larger Island Princess will now sail on the 15-day round-trip sailings from Los Angeles, in place of the previously announced Regal Princess. In addition, the schedule now features five additional sailings, giving the line a total of 15 departures to the island paradise.

"Princess is going big in Hawaii," said Dean Brown, executive vice president of customer service and sales. "We've been incredibly pleased by the response to our first full regular program of Hawaii sailings this season, so next year we're making a dramatic expansion. Next season we'll offer twice as many departures compared to our 2003-04 program, and we're deploying one of our newest and most amenity-filled vessels there."

Island Princess will now offer sailings beginning September 21, 2004 through April 19, 2005 -- including a special holiday voyage on December 20, during which passengers can celebrate both Christmas and the New Year. Regal Princess has been redeployed on a series of Panama Canal voyages.

The ship's itinerary travels to all of major islands within the Aloha State, with visits to Hilo, Kona, Honolulu, Nawiliwili (Kauai) and Lahaina (Maui). In addition, passengers can take advantage of the ship's many Personal Choice Cruising options and services during a series of relaxing days at sea between the islands and Los Angeles. A highlight of the ship's visit to the Big Island is an evening cruise-by of one of the world's most active volcanoes, Kilauea; providing the perfect vantage point to watch as glowing lava flows down to the sea.

Hawaii passengers will also enjoy the comfort of sailing on the new Island Princess, one of cruising's most advanced passenger vessels. The 92,000-ton, 1,970-passenger ship offers an array of amenities, including the line's largest number of staterooms with private balconies, perfect for enjoying the tropical climate and idyllic island views. The ship's features include the Bayou Café, the first New Orleans-style restaurant at sea; and the Universe Lounge, a dramatic two-deck performance venue equipped with the latest lighting and digital sound and video systems. This lounge is also home to the new enrichment program, which will keep passengers fascinated during their sea days with a variety of entertaining classes in culinary arts, photography, web design and ceramics, among others.

Early booking fares for Island Princess' new Hawaii sailings begin at $1,995 per person, based on double occupancy.

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Port of Miami Releases Mid-Year Figures: Cruise Industry Prospers

Miami-Dade County, FL -- Bucking the trend of a slow economy and a drop in tourism nationwide, the Dante B. Fascell Port of Miami-Dade reported an increase in its cargo figures and cruise passenger count. The Port of Miami, now a homeport-of-call, saw a rise in cruise passengers during the first half of Fiscal Year 2003. From October 2002 to March 2003, the island port posted a 12.4% increase in its cruise business with 2,214,563 vacationers traveling the high seas.

"Although the Port of Miami's cruise and cargo industries reflect positive growth, we cannot rest on our laurels," said Seaport Director Charles A. Towsley. "There are many ports fighting for economic survival, and when they experience a downturn, it is a domino effect. We're hoping that our geographical location, coupled with our enhanced facilities, will help us continue moving in a forward direction. However, we realize that the cargo business is seasonal and could begin to decline at any moment."

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Orient Lines to Offer a Pan-European Palette of Cruisetour Adventures in 2004
Marco Polo guests will enjoy extended Continental journeys highlighted by new itineraries to England, Ireland and Scotland plus Scandinavia & Russia

MIAMI, June 13, 2003 -- Destination cruise specialist Orient Lines will carry its experience-seeking guests far across Europe's broad shores in 2004, offering a collection of 57 separate CruiseTour itineraries sailing from the cobalt waters of the Cote d'Azur to the far reaches of the Baltic, Scandinavia and Russia.

Orient Lines' 2004 Europe program, offered aboard 822-passenger Marco Polo, will be highlighted by two new itineraries, one featuring rare port calls in England, Ireland and Scotland and a second that will take guests from the Baltic to Western Europe by way of the historic Kiel Canal.

"Marco Polo's 2004 European schedule offers the widest variety in its history of this destination-driven company," said Colin Veitch, president and CEO of Orient Lines. "Guests aboard Marco Polo will experience the variety and vitality of the European culture, from the beautiful isles of the United Kingdom and the Mediterranean to the ancient empires of Scandinavia and Russia."

Orient Lines' CruiseTour program offers guests in-depth experiences on land and sea. Passengers on all of the line's sailings enjoy first-class or deluxe hotel stays, sightseeing tours in embarkation/disembarkation cities, transfers, baggage handling and the services of an Orient Lines hospitality desk. In addition gentleman hosts make sure everyone joins in the dancing and shipboard activities.

Distinguished guest lecturers enrich the passenger experience by providing insight about the destination, including its history, culture and people. Guests who aren't able to attend the lecture can watch it in-cabin at their convenience. Special cultural traditions, like Afternoon Tea in England, and local folkloric performances further enhance guests' experience. Orient Lines believes that little considerations make a big difference. Guests receive a complimentary bottle of water upon leaving for shore excursions and are greeted by a friendly face ready to offer them a cool towel and cold lemonade or iced tea upon their return.

Marco Polo will offer 57 European CruiseTours from March 19, 2004 through Nov. 6, 2004, with lengths ranging from 11 to 37 days starting as low as $1695 per person. The Mediterranean season begins on April 2, 2004 with sailings to and from Rome, Athens, Venice and Barcelona through May 26, 2004 repositions to Southampton, England. On June 4, 2004 Marco Polo begins her Scandinavian and Baltic Capitals season sailing to and from Southampton, England, Stockholm, Sweden and Copenhagen, Denmark through August 30, 2004.

Passengers on Orient Lines' 2004 European CruiseTours will enjoy pre- and post-cruise land stays of two or more days in fascinating cities around the globe including Athens, Barcelona, Copenhagen, London and Rome. Additionally, Orient Lines is offering more one-way itineraries than other companies cruising in Europe, providing guests with more time in ports of call, as ships won't waste valuable time sailing back to original embarkation ports.

Orient Lines' 2004 Europe schedule features two new CruiseTours:
UK, Ireland and Scandinavia: A 20-day CruiseTour beginning June 4, 2004 with a two-day stay in London. The voyage from Southampton calls at Falmouth, Bristol (Avonmouth) and Liverpool, England; Cobh and Dublin, Ireland; Kirkwall, Orkney Islands; Invergordon, and Leith (overnight stay), Scotland; Stavanger and Oslo, Norway and Aarhus and Copenhagen, Denmark where guests disembark for a two-night deluxe hotel stay in Copenhagen before returning to the U.S. Pricing for this CruiseTour package starts from $3,990 per person. Baltic Capitals: A 16-day CruiseTour offered on August 29, 2004. The cruise departs from Stockholm, Sweden (overnight stay) and calls at Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight stay); Tallinn, Estonia; Riga, Latvia; Copenhagen, Denmark; Warnemunde, (Berlin) Germany; a daytime transit of the Kiel Canal; Amsterdam, Netherlands and Dover, England. The CruiseTour ends with a two-night deluxe hotel stay in London. CruiseTour pricing begins at $3,195. On September 23, Marco Polo returns to Barcelona to continue sailing in the Mediterranean for the Fall cruise season through November 9, 2004.

A "Cradling" Experience - From Beginning to End
Orient Lines offers a "cradling" experience from the moment passengers purchasing full CruiseTour packages set foot in their overseas embarkation city. Guests are met at the airport by an Orient Lines representative and transferred by motorcoach to a first-class or deluxe hotel property that has been carefully selected for comfort and proximity to key landmarks. These hotel stays offer passengers a chance to relax after long flights and give them time to explore some of the world's great travel destinations. Other lines regard hotel stays as optional add-ons.

At the end of the pre-cruise stay, passengers are transferred by motorcoach to the Marco Polo for boarding. Because ship check-in was processed at the hotel's hospitality desk, there's no waiting at the pier. And, because luggage was collected at the hotel, passengers simply walk aboard with their carry-on bags; porters bring the luggage directly to each passenger's stateroom shortly after embarkation.

After the cruise, passengers are transferred by motorcoach to their post-cruise hotel. In addition to providing concierge services, Orient Lines representatives at the hospitality desk also schedule passengers' final transfer to the airport. It's a seamless transition, "cradling" passengers from beginning to end.

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SILVERSEA CRUISES ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF SILVER WIND'S MULTI-MILLION-DOLLAR REFURBISHMENT
New Wine and Cigar Room, Spa Tranquility Room and expanded Fitness Center highlight makeover and Saletta, an intimate new dining venue, is unveiled

Silversea Cruises announced its 296-guest Silver Wind has just completed a multi-million-dollar renovation at T. Mariotti Shipyard in Genoa, Italy. From the elegant new Saletta restaurant and Le Champagne wine and cigar room to the new Tranquility Room and expanded Fitness Center, the ultra-luxury ship boasts new furnishings, draperies, carpets and refreshed woodwork. Among the enhancements are suite interiors featuring attractive new artwork, draperies, sofas, chairs, headboards and bedding topped with plush new duvets. In addition, many suites, public areas, stairways and corridors have all new carpeting.

Silversea has been eagerly awaiting the chance for guests to experience Silver Wind's upgrades and enhancements. Guests will be thoroughly delighted when they see for themselves the new areas, like the expanded Fitness Center, with its panoramic view of the ocean, and the new Tranquility Room, which provides a between-treatment relaxation area for guests indulging themselves at Silversea's acclaimed spa.

With enhancements like Saletta, the new alternative dining restaurant, and Le Champagne, Silver Wind's new wine and cigar room, the line is offering more options and ensuring that its award-winning product continues to evolve with the interests of its very discerning guests.

Le Champagne Wine and Cigar Room
Bringing Silver Wind more in line with Silversea's newest ships, Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper, is the addition of Le Champagne on Deck Eight. This new wine and cigar room offers guests a cozy venue where they can relax and settle back into sumptuous leather chairs to enjoy a select vintage or fine cigar.

Saletta Restaurant
The Silver Wind now features Saletta, a restaurant with dishes contributed by Relais Gourmands, the cuisine-oriented division of Relais & Chateaux. Saletta's rich color scheme of crimson and soft gold, its luxurious appointments, and old-fashioned Italian accent pieces infuse the room with elegance and charm. The intimate Saletta, with seating for about 40 guests, is located on Deck Four, beside The Restaurant, Silver Wind's main dining venue. Saletta is open for dinner only and is available to guests at no additional charge. Reservations are recommended.

Fitness Center
Silver Wind's Fitness Center has been relocated to the Observation Deck, where it has been expanded and outfitted with new carpet and furnishings. Guests will be able to practice yoga, train with the latest Pilates program or work out with state-of-the-art fitness equipment while enjoying a breathtaking, panoramic view of the ocean.

Tranquility Room
Located adjacent to the spa, the new Tranquility Room offers comfortable chaise lounges and sofas where, between treatments, guests can relax, read a book or enjoy a calming view of the ocean. Pleasing artwork and a soothing color palette of soft azure and flaxen tones combine to evoke a sense of nature and well-being.

Library and Internet Point
Attractive new artwork, rich cabinetry, housing a wide selection of books, tapes and amusements, new carpet, drapes and cozy armchairs round out the Library's enhancements. Adjacent to the Library, which has been relocated to Deck Four, is Silver Wind's new Internet Point featuring six private computer workstations and comfortable new high-back executive chairs. 

Silver Wind will be sailing on a series of Mediterranean and Baltic cruises throughout the summer months before heading to the Caribbean and South America this fall. A number of attractive savings programs, such as Silversea's Advance Payment Bonus, Early Booking Incentive and Silver Sailings program, make these enticing regions more affordable than ever. Guests are encouraged to contact their travel agent or visit the line's Web site, www.silversea.com, for complete itineraries and information about these special programs.

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard four intimate vessels, Silver Wind, Silver Cloud, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. For the seventh consecutive year, Silversea Cruises was named best small-ship line in the 2002 readers' survey conducted by Condé Nast Traveler magazine. For the fourth time, Silversea was selected "Number One" small-ship line in Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2002. For more information on Silversea Cruises, please contact a travel agent. For a complimentary brochure, please call toll-free (877) 215-9986 or visit www.silversea.com.

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Activision Challenges Gamers to Manage the Ultimate Floating Resort in "Cruise Ship Tycoon" for the PC  

MINNEAPOLIS, June 17, 2003 -- Do you have the business savvy to take a cruise ship and turn it into the hottest vacation destination on the map? Then it's time to hit the high seas in "Cruise Ship Tycoon," the newest PC simulation from Activision Value, a division of Activision Publishing, Inc. Gamers use their entrepreneurial acumen to build a luxury liner from the ground-up and then hire a top-notch crew, launch creative promotions, find amazing nightclub acts and develop a host of other attractions that will turn this venture into a cruise line empire. "Cruise Ship Tycoon" is available at retail stores nationwide for $19.99 and is rated "T" (comic mischief, mild violence, suggestive themes, use of alcohol) by the ESRB.

"'Cruise Ship Tycoon' combines the most popular and well-liked aspects of tycoon/simulation games with new design elements custom-tailored to the cruise industry," said Patrick Kelly, Vice President of Studios, Activision Value Publishing. "From hiring the crew and entertaining the guests to making sure the ship is in top condition, it's up to gamers to keep their boat afloat."

In "Cruise Ship Tycoon," players start off by building a cruise ship, setting it sail, and managing it while at sea. The game features three different models of ships, each with two upgrades, which can be unlocked as the gamer turns the venture into a profitable business. Players must develop management strategies that take into account the unique challenges of a ship environment like making ship modifications and staff additions exclusively at ports and having limited access to one floor of the ship at a time. In addition, customer satisfaction plays a pivotal role in the success of this luxury liner, so tycoons will need to monitor guest happiness and employee satisfaction, among other things, to build up a positive reputation. Gamers will see as the ship gradually takes on a life of its own as guests interact in true to life form.

"Cruise Ship Tycoon" features three different modes of play including a career option that challenges players to build their empire from scratch; challenge mode, which features 10 mission-based challenges that range from accumulating a minimum amount of money to getting the ship to the next port in a set amount of time; and free play mode, which allows players to start off with any ship and run their empire as they see fit. "Cruise Ship Tycoon" provides fun and entertainment for anyone up for a challenge.

Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, Activision Value Publishing, Inc., a division of Activision, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision Publishing, Inc. The company specializes in developing interactive entertainment software for the PC systems and all other video game platforms worldwide. For more information about Activision Value Publishing, visit the company's web site at www.activisionvalue.com or www.activision.com.

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Royal Caribbean Announces Design For New 'Ultra-Voyager' Ship; Signs Agreement That Could Lead To Firm Order

MIAMI, June 16 -- Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced today that, working with Finnish shipbuilder Kvaerner Masa-Yards, it has developed a design for a new and even more spectacular ship, the "Ultra- Voyager," and that both parties have signed an agreement that could lead to a firm order. The agreement anticipates that the cruise line and the yard could enter into construction contracts for Ultra-Voyager, provided that certain conditions, such as the euro-dollar exchange rate, move to a more favorable position. Today's conditional agreement anticipates one newbuilding, deliverable in 2006, and one option, for delivery in 2007 or 2008.

The Ultra-Voyager would be a larger and more spacious version of Royal Caribbean's widely popular Voyager-class ships, currently the largest cruise ships in service in the world. The new Ultra-Voyager would be roughly 15 percent larger in space and in passenger capacity carrying 3,600 guests (double-occupancy), 500 more than its predecessors. At just under 160,000 gross registered tons, the Ultra-Voyager would provide even more room for passenger facilities and amenities and would provide even greater economies of scale than her predecessors.

A key factor affecting whether today's agreement leads to a firm contract is how much the current euro-dollar exchange rate improves. Royal Caribbean hopes that circumstances will allow it to finalize the order later this year and that these new berths will enjoy a lower capital and operating cost than earlier Voyager-class ships. The company may activate the agreement up to August 31, 2003, or under certain terms up to December 31, 2003.

"We are nearing the completion of an aggressive shipbuilding program unprecedented in our history," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean. "That program has allowed us to develop some of the most innovative ships in the world and has greatly improved our economies of scale. We are operating in a different environment today, and we anticipate that the company's future fleet expansion will proceed at a more measured pace in terms of capacity, but not in terms of innovation."

"We are pleased that Royal Caribbean continues to place its faith in Kvaerner Masa-Yards and hope that conditions will allow us to proceed with our mutual plans," said Jorma Eloranta, president and chief executive officer of Kvaerner Masa-Yards Inc. "We will work hard to improve our cost efficiency even further, without compromising our high quality standards."

Royal Caribbean has three ships under construction in Finland and in Germany. In addition, it has options for two Radiance-class ships in Germany. Fleet capacity has grown 77 percent in the last four years, the height of the company's growth spurt, or more than 15 percent annually. Adding an Ultra- Voyager in 2006 would increase capacity by 3.0 percent in 2006 and 2.9 percent in 2007. If the decision is made to build an Ultra-Voyager, there would be a two-year gap between the last of the current newbuildings and the first of the Ultra-Voyagers.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise company that operates Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, with a combined total of 25 ships in service and the three under construction. The company also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe through its cruise-tour division. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com.

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Unless otherwise noted, all news items are sourced by individual cruise lines, cruise-related industries, and their agents.


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