Cruise Ships to Look Forward to in 2022

There’s lots for cruise goers to look forward to in 2022 including brand new ocean-going cruise ships that run the gamut from big to small, and include a number of highly-anticipated first-in-class ships.

Practically every category of the cruise industry will see the entry of at least one new ship, giving cruisers a wide range of new choices to experience.

Viking Octantis, Viking Polaris

New ships from Viking Cruises aren’t as exciting as they once were, but Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris aren’t like any of Viking’s previous vessels. The line’s first polar class ships, the 378-passenger sister ships represent Viking’s entry into expedition cruising. Both will feature the Scandinavian aesthetic past Viking Ocean cruisers are familiar with, but will also introduce new spaces designed with expedition cruising in mind.

Highlights

The Hangar: An in-ship marina that makes it easier for people to get in and out of the ships’ fleets of Zodiacs, RIBs (rapid inflatable boats) and Arctic-tested kayaks, away from wind and waves.

The Laboratory: A working space for Viking Resident Scientists to do real-time research. Cruisers will have supervised access to The Laboratory to learn from and participate with the scientists.

Nordic Balconies: A sunroom (found in all cabins on both ships) that converts into an al fresco viewing platform with the touch of a button.

Submarines: Each ship will also have two six-guest submarines that feature revolving seats and 270-degree spherical windows.

Emerald Azzurra

The 100-passenger Emerald Azzurra will be river cruise operator Emerald Cruises’ first ocean-going vessel. The ship, which the company refers to as a superyacht, will sail the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Black and Red Seas.

Highlights

Marina Platform: Used for water fun like paddle boarding and snorkeling, as well as for boarding the ship’s fleet of three tenders and two Zodiacs.

Spacious Cabins: The smallest cabin onboard is more than 285-square-feet in size and 88% of the cabins have a balcony.

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas, the fifth in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class, will be the line’s largest ship to date (and the biggest in the world) when it debuts in March, capable of holding 6,988 passengers. It’ll also be the first Oasis-class ship with eight neighborhoods, rather than seven.

Highlights

Suite Class Neighborhood: A keycard-accessible area with the ship’s best suites, the Coastal Kitchen suite’s only restaurant, and an elevated Suite Sun Deck, complete with plunge pool and bar.

The Vue: This cantilevered pool bar is an all-new concept for Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Staples: FlowRider, Ultimate Abyss, Perfect Storm waterslides, 150 Central Park, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, The Lime & Coconut, Schooner Bar, Playmakers, etc.

Discovery Princess 

When it launches, Discovery Princess will be the sixth and final ship in Princess’ Royal class.  It will be similar to Enchanted Princess, but will not have a Bistro Sur La Mer.

Highlights

Gigi’s Pizza: This pizzeria takes the place of Alfredo’s.

Salty Dog Gastropub: A gastropub experience developed by Chef Ernesto Uchimura.

Take Five: A atmospheric bar where live jazz and craft cocktails are the main attractions.

Seabourn Venture

One of the first of the luxury lines to announce it was building upscale expedition cruise ships, Seabourn’s entry into expedition was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally scheduled to launch in 2021, the all-suite, all-balcony Seabourn Venture is instead debuting in 2022. 

Highlights

High-tech Equipment: Among the high-tech equipment onboard will be two six-person submarines and an underwater camera that will stream footage into the onboard Discovery Center.

Zodiacs: There will be 24 Zodiac boats, enough for every passenger to get off the ship at the same time, which is nearly unheard of in the expedition cruising segment.

Constellation Lounge: The highest indoor viewing point on the ship, this lounge will feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls offering a 270-degree view.

Expedition Team: Every sailing will carry 26 expedition guides who will offer lectures and lead shore excursions.

Celebrity Beyond

The third in Celebrity’s Edge Class of ship, Celebrity Beyond will be different enough from its sister ships to make it a noteworthy debut in 2022. Longer and taller than the first two Edge-class ships, Celebrity Beyond will do everything just a bit bigger.

Highlights

Sunset Bar: The popular sunset bar will span two decks on Celebrity Beyond.

Larger Resort Deck: The Resort Deck, which is much too small on Edge and Apex, will be 40% larger on Celebrity Beyond.

Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud: The first at-sea restaurant from the famed restauranteur.

Edge Villas: The two-story Edge Villas will be expanded to make room for a private outdoor plunge pool.

Evrima

The launch date for the much anticipated first vessel in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has been pushed back numerous times, but it seems likely to finally debut in 2022. The 298-passenger yacht-like ship has been designed to bring the upscale brand’s distinguished atmosphere to the sea.

Highlights

Dining Variety: There will be five restaurants to choose from including Mistral, an al fresco Mediterranean-inspired venue, and S.E.A., an extra-fee restaurant created by Sven Elverfeld, of the three Michelin-starred Aqua at The Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany.

Aft Marina: The marina will feature a variety of water toys to choose from for days at anchor. It will also provide plenty of space for lounging for those who wish to relax.

Disney Wish

Disney Wish is one of the most anticipated cruise ships for 2022. The first new ship from Disney Cruise Line since Disney Fantasy launched in 2012, Disney Wish will be the first of three new ships. It will have 1,254 staterooms of which 70% will have a balcony and 451 will offer a connecting door.

Highlights

New Cabin Categories: Debuting on Disney Wish will be a cabin category of seven oceanview rooms located directly above the bridge. Each will feature floor-to-ceiling windows for a panoramic view. The ship will also have a new Royal Suites category with a Sleeping Beauty theme.

AquaMouse: A water coaster ride that combines animated shorts, lighting and special effects.

Pools: There will be six pools onboard including a Toy Story-themed space for younger kids.

“Frozen” Restaurant: The “Frozen”-themed dining venue will feature characters from the movie.

Marvel Restaurant: This main dining room will have diners engaging in an interactive Avengers mission while they dine.

Norwegian Prima

Another of the most anticipated cruise ships in 2022 is Norwegian Prima. The first in an all-new class of vessel, Prima will be the line’s most upscale to date, while still maintaining the NCL passion for freestyle cruising – do what you want, when you want to.

Highlights

Go-Kart Racetrack: The racetrack on Norwegian Prima will be three levels and almost a quarter-mile in length, the largest yet for the line.

The Drop: A freefall dry slide that plunges riders down 10-stories on the outside of the ship.

Glass Bridge: The ship’s Waterfront will feature a glass-bottomed section to give cruisers an un-impeded view of the ocean below.

Galaxy Pavilion: Norwegian Prima will be the third ship in the NCL fleet to have this virtual gaming complex, which will also feature two escape rooms.

Tidal Wave: Along with the line’s signature Aqua Park, Norwegian Prima will have a Tidal Wave inner tube waterslide.

Food Hall: A new concept for the line, the Food Hall will feature separate sit-down venues, each with a distinctive cuisine style.

“Summer”: Prima’s main entertainment space will be part Broadway-style theater, part Vegas-style nightclub and home to “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical.”

Carnival Celebration

Sister ship to Carnival’s first XL-class ship, the 5,374-passenger Carnival Celebration will have most of the same fun features currently found on Mardi Gras, along with all of Carnival’s signature attractions. But the ship will also have a few just-on-Celebration venues, which the line plans to announce in early 2022. 

Highlights

Zones: Like Mardi Gras, Celebration features six themed zones, each with its own eateries, bars and attractions.

BOLT: A roller coaster experience at sea that debuted first on Mardi Gras.

RedFrog Tiki Bar: A two-deck high pool bar.

Shaq’s Big Chicken: A free all-chicken venue helmed by Carnival Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O'Neal.

Dream Vacations - The Operach Team is a travel agency based in Overland Park, Kansas. We take pride in working with clients across the country who love to travel. We build vacation experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime.  Our team has specialties across a wide range of vacation options; custom Europe itineraries, Alaska, escorted tours, all-inclusive resorts, Disney, Caribbean, Hawaii, South Pacific, cruise holidays, and river cruises.   

We look forward to making your dream vacations come true!! 

Foolproof Cruise Arguments for Non-Cruisers

We all know many people, for one reason or another, will stubbornly refuse not to go on a cruise any time the topic comes up. We admit that cruising may not be a suitable vacation for anyone with a fear of open water, but if their reasons are a fear of subpar food, lackluster service, or a general lack of things to do, we have the perfect antidote for the most common excuses:

1. For Picky Eaters: The Food is Way Better Than You Think

Reason For Not Cruising: “Cruise ship food is terrible. It’s just endless buffets and barely edible entrees.”

What We Say: Cruise ship dining is way more than just buffets. Even if some of the options aren’t great, ships can have up to 20 unique specialty restaurants serving up every type of cuisine imaginable.

If All Else Fails: We resort to shameless name-dropping. Even the most hardcore foodies will start involuntarily salivating when we mention the names Jamie Oliver, Roy Yamaguchi, Curtis Stone, Thomas Keller, Guy Fieri, Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, and Michael Schwartz, all of whom have launched a celebrity chef restaurant on a major cruise line.



2. For the Busy Parents: Kids Activities and Childcare Options

Reason For Not Cruising: “My kids will get bored” or “I don’t want to deal with keeping track of them on a huge cruise ship but I can’t leave them at home.”

What We Say: Families are among the most coveted demographics by the major cruise lines, and they will move mountains to get them on board and keep them happy. Newer ships come fully equipped with onboard water parks, age-appropriate kids clubs, onboard activities from go-karts to ropes courses, and character partnerships with kids brands like Dr. Seuss.

If All Else Fails: Onboard babysitting. Parents can’t resist the idea of having time away from their kids (whether they admit it or not), and most cruise lines have group babysitting in the youth club spaces at night.


3. For the Easily Overwhelmed: Cruise Ships Come in All Sizes

Reason For Not Cruising: “Cruise ships nowadays are too big and crowded.”

What We Say It’s true that the newest ships are enormous, but they’re also designed in such a way to spread these crowds out across the ship, avoiding bottlenecks and human traffic jams. We regularly see reviews from first-time cruisers expressing their surprise that the ship never felt like there were 4,000+ passengers on board.

If All Else Fails: While they may not have all the new bells and whistles, older ships (which tend to be much smaller) actually have some advantages over newer ships. And if even they seem like too much to handle, there are always river cruises.


4. For the Easily Bored: There’s Always Something to Do

Reason For Not Cruising: “I’ll get bored on the ship” or some variation of “Cruising is for old people”.

What We Say: If you find yourself getting bored on a ship, you really have no one to blame but yourself. Between the constant activities, shows, and parties, plus four square meals a day followed by napping on the lido deck, you’ll be lucky to experience half of what a cruise ship has to offer on a seven-day cruise.

If All Else Fails: Would cruise ships add features like rock walls, go-karts, surf simulators, ropes courses, and bumper cars if they really were just for elderly vacationers? If they did, we can only hope we're that cool when we retire.



5. For the Spoiled: There’s Nothing Like Cruise Ship Service

Reason For Not Cruising: “I’d rather just go to a resort for the excellent service.”

What We Say: Working in the travel industry means we read a lot of reviews. We regularly see crew members being complimented by name, along with plenty of stories of these hardworking staff going above and beyond their job description to make passengers feel at home. And just to prove we’re not cherry-picking the best examples, when we compile the data, the average scores for service are ALWAYS the highest among any other category (dining, entertainment, cabins, etc.).

If All Else Fails:  You will love the new ship-within-a-ship concepts like Norwegian’s Haven, Celebrity’s Retreat, or the MSC Yacht Club, where they’ll have access to private pools, lounges, and concierge services.


Dream Vacations - The Operach Team is a travel agency based in Overland Park, Kansas. We take pride in working with clients across the country who love to travel. We build vacation experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime.  Our team has specialties across a wide range of vacation options; custom Europe itineraries, Alaska, escorted tours, all-inclusive resorts, Disney, Caribbean, Hawaii, South Pacific, cruise holidays, and river cruises.   

We look forward to making your dream vacations come true!! 

Obsolete Ideas About Crusing

Misconceptions still abound about cruise travel, but the truth is they are mostly false. Once you understand the reality, a vacation at sea becomes a perfect opportunity. Here are six debunked myths.

I Can’t Afford Something So Expensive

Actually, a cruise is a remarkable value, even since its inception. Over time, however, that value has only gotten better as so much is included at sea. After you unpack once and conveniently travel to several ports of call with inherently bundled transportation, most meals and entertainment are free. So, yes an initial bottom line price might seem expensive, but when you break everything down per day, there is no beating such a deal on land where everything adds up far quicker on an a la carte basis.

It’s Only for the Newly Wed and Nearly Dead

Again, this is not exclusively true. While boomers still account for about half of the cruising market, the other half is now dominated by increasingly youthful passengers such as millennials. Besides newlyweds, plenty of young families are regularly choosing cruises as their preferred form of travel, and even once older-skewing segments such as river sailings are starting to appeal to younger crowds as well. If anything, cruising is perfect for multiple generations with voyages that can be enjoyed among grandparents to grandchildren.

Quarters Are Cramped and Ships Are Overcrowded

While standard cabins will likely never be as large as shoreside hotel rooms due to economies of scale, staterooms are bigger than they once were, and there are also plenty of suites to choose from as well for those who require more space. In fact, most of your time will be spent out of your private accommodations enjoying the rest of the ship, and while there are areas that can get busier, there are plenty of places to escape to for a quiet respite with ships getting ever bigger.

I’ll Definitely Be Bored Onboard

Also as ships get bigger so too do the amazing lists of things to do onboard. They truly are cities at sea now with dozens of restaurant choices plus as many opportunities for kinetic to leisurely activities. Just be sure to pick a ship that suits your need to be entertained by everything from Broadway-style performances to ice skating shows. Besides, there’s something for every age group onboard from the youngest children to the oldest adults.

Seasickness Is Sure to Attack

Larger ships also mean greater stability. Smaller vessels do move more, making guests more prone to motion sickness, so booking a mega ship is a way to avoid excess movement. Of course, weather is unpredictable and even the biggest in the world will rock from time to time, but it’s far less of a concern than it once was.

I Won’t Be Able to See Enough of the Destination

Port calls are generally only scheduled for one day, but the beauty of a cruise is that several are included, making it a perfect sampler of an overall destination. That way you can discover your favorite and always return for a longer duration. Alternatively, more and more cruises themselves stay longer at any given location to better delve into its sights and sounds and particularly nightlife with occasional multi-day stops.

Harmony Aboard Royal Caribbean

I have been looking forward to our spring break aboard Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas for quite a while. We had sailed on her sister the Allure of the Seas a few years ago and were eager to see all the improvements.

The third Oasis-class ship to join the fleet, Harmony of the Seas, at 226,963 grt and with 5,479 guests (double occupancy), is nearly 1,700 tons larger and able to accommodate 100 more passengers than her sister Allure of the Seas, which previously held the record as the world’s largest cruise ship. And although all sisters are similar in design and features, Harmony of the Seas boasts her own new additions.

Royal Caribbean advertises the ship as its “biggest and boldest adventure to ever set sail,” and I certainly agree. She is geared toward families, couples, and anyone young at heart looking to inject a little adventure into their onboard experience.  Let’s look at what’s in store for those who take to the high seas aboard the world’s largest and arguably most impressive, technology-rich cruise ship.
First impressions of Harmony of the Seas (aside from the fact that she is huge) are fun, bold, and colorful.  The updated modern look and updates over her sisters are very well executed.  She is a true masterpiece in every sense and a feeling of excitement sweeps over you from the instant you step aboard and realize that adventure lies around every corner.

Each of her seven neighborhoods has a distinct feel and vibe, and each are adorned with some of the most incredible pieces of art at sea. Onboard amenities are similar to those found aboard the other Oasis-class ships as well as the line’s Quantum-class ships: spacious, tastefully decorated, and some of the most innovative must-dos at sea. The beauty of the design is that even with 6000 guests on board you never feel crowded!

Dining

When on the world’s biggest cruise ship, you expect a selection of astounding menus, and Harmony of the Seas certainly delivers on her dining options. With no less than 18 venues on board, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Jamie’s Italian, from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, is a new favorite of ours!  The service and food were truly outstanding.  The restaurant also benefits from a great location: right in the middle of Central Park, where you’ll also find Chops Grille, 150 Central Park, and Vintages Wine Bar. After dinner, grab a drink at the Rising Tide Bar for a unique perspective of the Royal Promenade, as the bar slowly ascends and descends between three decks.

We found one of our old favorite specialty dining options - Chops seemed to be a bit too busy for the holiday week.  Although the food lived up to expectation, the service suffered as they seemed to be at over capacity.

150 Central Park by Michael Schwartz had excellent food but frankly was a bit underwhelming for the price.

The Main Dining rooms delivered quality meals with exceptional service and the Windjammer buffet always had tasty selections at all hours of the day.


Activities

So much to do and so little time! 

Our active boys where always busy utilizing the Flowrider, waterslides, zip-line, mini-golf, ice skating, or rock wall. 

One of my favorites was participating in one of the most tech-heavy Escape Rooms on board – The Rubicon ($9pp fee).   If you have never done a good escape room they are a lot of fun as you work as a team to solve puzzles to escape your room within one hour.  I will not give away the puzzles but our group unfortunately perished in space as we failed. According to our ‘guide’ only 30% of the participants finish to ‘escape’. Despite our failure we had an amazing experience.



Onboard Entertainment

There’s no shortage of entertainment options aboard Harmony of the Seas. In fact, you might struggle to fit in everything you want to do. If there is one thing you must see during your cruise, however, it is Grease! The Musical. The production, which makes its debut at sea, is arguably one of the best aboard any ship. Let your hair down and sing along to classics such as “Greased Lightnin’,” “Summer Nights,” and “Look at Me, I’m Sandra Dee.”




Another show that shares the 1,380-guest Royal Theater is Columbus, The Musical! , which tells the hilarious, imaginary tale of Christopher’s luckless cousin Marvin, as he embarks on a wacky voyage to the Caribbean. This fun performance features a revolutionary set design and is also not to be missed.



The Fine Line and Hideaway Heist are shows that are performed at the AquaTheater, the distinct high-diving, acrobatic performance venue that was first introduced aboard Oasis of the Seas. The Fine Line features mind-blowing stunts, incredible acrobatic performances, and enough adrenaline to keep you gripped from start to finish. Hideaway Heist is fun for the whole family with its comical, 1950s holiday resort vibe.

Other entertainment options include The Attic, Harmony of the Seas’ nightclub, as well as the dance parties on the Royal Promenade that take guests back in time with ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s music. For something different, check out the ice shows in Studio B.

Other Great Spaces

If you want peace and quiet while relaxing in beautiful surroundings then find yourself a lounger in The Solarium. This is a stunning space and, unlike the Solariums aboard other ships, has sectioned breaks in the glass to allow fresh air to flow through. It also has its own bar, so there’s no need to venture far for refreshments. The views are stunning and it’s one of those places that lifts the everyday stresses from your mind the instant you step through the door.

On Land

Labadee – Royal Caribbean’s Private Island.  Visiting private islands is a favorite for us in the Caribbean – a great way to have a simple beach day. But our ‘beach day’ was not simple!  In fact, I think we were in the water a total 30 minutes.  My boys received a ‘Labadee Experience’ for Christmas which consisted of an all-day pass for the mountain coaster and a trip on Dragon’s Flight zip line.  he whole family enjoyed the mountain coaster where you control your own speed down the mountain.  Spectacular views and a thrilling ride!  Add a beach BBQ to round out a perfect day in the Caribbean sun,


Cozumel – We have been to Cozumel too many times to count so we were looking for a different adventure.  Cozumel Amazing Race was just the right type of excursion.  If you have ever seen the CBS show on TV the excursion was very similar.  We had clues we had to solve and then run to our next location.  The course had us going to off-the beaten path locations in Cozumel across almost 4 miles! There even was a clue that required us to take a boat for some snorkeling!   Being the competitive person I am we did not get off to a great start with the first clue … but we covered some lost ground and came in second among a field of 8 teams!


Top  Highlights

Ultimate Abyss: At 10 stories tall, it’s the tallest duo of slides at sea. Towering above the ocean waves by more than 100 feet, it’s not for the faint-hearted.

The Perfect Storm: This trio of waterslides spirals five decks above Central Park. Typhoon and Cyclone are racing slides and Supercell features a champagne bowl that swirls guests around until they come to the final splash.


Grease! The Musical: This is an absolute must-see in the Royal Theater.

Bionic Bar: Although it can take a while to get your drink when it’s busy, it is certainly worth trying at least once, just so you can say that you ordered a drink from a robot bartender aboard the world’s biggest cruise ship.



Signature Favorites: Set a time to try out Chops Grille, Jamie’s Italian, The Dog House, and the Schooner Bar.


Zip-Line: Fly high above the decks as you zip from one side of the ship to other. At 10 decks up and 120 feet above the Boardwalk, it’s not for those afraid of heights!



AquaTheater: Watch an impressive water acrobatics show at sea.

Studio B: A multipurpose studio complex that offers incredible ice shows featuring professional skaters from around the world.

In summary it was a fantastic week ... and we look forward to repeating our favorite activities and restaurants in October for our Dream Vacations National Conference aboard the Harmony of the Seas!

Innovations That Changed Cruising

When you think about it, boarding a floating resort the size of an aircraft carrier with thousands of other travelers with the purpose of going island-hopping for a week seems like a downright strange idea for a vacation. Our favorite vacation didn’t evolve overnight, and here are seven key moments that came to define modern cruising as we know it.

1. The First Leisure Cruise (1844)

The first cruise ships carried both passengers and mail.

Innovator: P&O Cruises

Think cruising is a strictly modern phenomenon? Think again. The first “leisure cruise” set sail in 1844 when the Peninsular Steam Navigation Company (which still exists today as P&O cruises) sailed passengers on small liners to the Mediterranean for the sole purpose of pleasure. When the concept proved to be successful, other shipping companies quickly joined in and it wasn’t long before ships were adding luxuries like electric lights, more spacious deck areas and onboard entertainment to keep passengers coming. The “Golden Age of Cruising” continued for over sixty years, until the sinking of the Titanic put a serious damper on the industry, and two successive world wars saw most ocean liners repurposed for the war effort. Soon after, flights replaced cruising as the preferred form of travel trans-Atlantic travel, and many lines went bankrupt.



2. The Dawn of the Fun Ship (1972)

Carnival Mardi Gras, and the first cruise ship water slide on Carnival Festivale.

Innovator: Carnival Cruise Lines

In the late 60s and early 70s, cruising began to undergo a renaissance. Rather than serving as a more comfortable means of transport, lines started to market the ships as destinations in themselves. Many lines claimed to have “invented” Caribbean pleasure cruising, but Carnival in particular excelled in the new marketplace and began purchasing ocean liners and converting them to early prototypes of their “Fun Ship” model. The Mardi Gras, Carnivale, and Festivale introduced familiar concepts like tiered decks, indoor and outdoor pools, casinos, sports decks, and lounge-style entertainment, with each ship adding more new innovations than the last. Festivale even featured the first cruise ship water slide, although it was little more than a playground slide.

Tropical pleasure cruising was a huge hit with travelers, starting a pop culture phenomenon embodied by the hit TV show The Love Boat, which ran from 1977 until 1986. Not content with simply repurposing ocean liners, Carnival decided to design a ship from the ground up with these innovations in mind. The Tropicale was completed in 1982 and featured more onboard entertainment, activities and dining options than any of its predecessors.



3. The First Private Island (1977)

Great Stirrup Cay has changed dramatically over the years. 

Innovator: Norwegian Cruise Line

As the Fun Ship era was getting underway, one line made a bold move that would be emulated by virtually every major ocean-cruise company in the years to come. In 1977, Norwegian purchased Great Stirrup Cay, a small island in the Bahamas, from the Belcher Oil Company and developed it into a private island paradise for their cruise passengers. The island had sandy beaches with snorkeling areas, but was extremely primitive by modern standards. It lacked a proper dock, for example, and Norwegian tender boats would run cruisers ashore.

Today, Carnival, Disney, Royal Caribbean, Princess, and Holland America all have their own private islands capable of supporting thousands of cruisers at a time. These resorts are basically the size of a town, complete with shopping outlets, restaurants, and a variety of activities and excursions.



4. The Cruise Ship Arms Race Begins (1999)

Voyager of the Seas was revolutionary for its time, and is still a popular ship today. 

Innovator: Royal Caribbean

Cruise ships slowly increased in size during the 80s and 90s, but the industry took a giant leap forward when Royal Caribbean launched Voyager of the Seas, a massive ship with a gross tonnage of 137,276 and a passenger capacity of 3,114. (For the sake of comparison, the Carnival Tropicale had a GT of 36,674.) The ship wasn’t only impressive for its size though. It touted new innovations like a rock-climbing wall, an ice-skating rink, an indoor shopping mall and outdoor movie screen.

The idea of a megaship with an unprecedented amount of dining and entertainment options didn’t just appeal to cruisers, it also appealed to the cruise lines who realized that larger ships actually cost less on a per-passenger basis. Just 16 years later, the Voyager is now merely on the higher end of “medium-sized” ships, while the largest ship in the world, Harmony of the Seas, is 40% larger and can carry an additional 2,100 passengers.



5. Freestyle Cruising (2000)

Innovator: Norwegian Cruise Line

Shorty after the launch of Voyager of the Seas, Norwegian countered by pioneering its massively successful “Freestyle Cruising” initiative that introduced a more flexible approach to cruising with no set meal times, more dining selections, and a relaxed dress code. First launched exclusively on Norwegian Sky, Freestyle Cruising was so popular that only one year later, Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Star were built from the ground up to match the concept, and in 2002, all vessels were set to be refurbished to offer freestyle cruising. Now, plenty of other lines have adopted the philosophy, offering more meal times and a larger selection of restaurants, but a strong case can be made that none do it quite as well.



6. Celebrity Chef Restaurants (2000s)

Jamie Oliver (Royal Caribbean) is just one of many celebrity chefs to open a cruise ship restaurant. 

Innovator: Holland America, Cunard, and Crystal

Up until this point, cruise ship food was widely ridiculed as little more than barely edible buffets, and some lines tackled this conception head on. Picking up where Norwegian had started with multiple dining rooms as part of their Freestyle Cruising concept, upscale lines like Cunard, Holland America, and Crystal started offering specialty restaurants supercharged with celebrity branding like Todd English, Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa, and Daniel Boulud. Today, even mainstream cruise lines like Norwegian, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean have brought on a multitude celebrity chefs and famous eateries to augment their dining options.



7. Broadway Musicals (2008)

Grease is now being shown on Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Harmony of the Seas 

Innovator: Royal Caribbean

By the end of the aughts, the ships were bigger and the food was fancier, but the cruise lines weren’t done yet. Even at this point, most cruise ship entertainment consisted of vegas-style shows, lounge musicians, and stand-up comedy. In 2008, Royal Caribbean changed that by introducing the first Broadway musical at sea when it premiered HairSpray on it’s new ship Oasis of the Seas. Since then, cruise ships have hosted musicals like Cats, Saturday Night Fever, and Grease, along with other high-profile musical acts like Blue Man Group and country legend Tim McGraw.

Courtesy of Cruisline.com

Which Caribbean Island Is Right For You?

There are more than 7,000 islands in the Caribbean that are part of more than 28 nations. Your average seven-night cruise can visit three to five of them—so how do you narrow down where you should go? While we’d argue there’s a reason to visit every destination available on a Caribbean cruise, some locales speak directly to a traveler’s vacation style, be it relaxed and indulgent or adventurous and on-the-go (and anywhere in between). If you’re wondering where to begin, we’ve gathered some thought-starters here. With nearly two dozen different locations from which to choose, we make it easy to find on the perfect one.

The Naturalist

Belize City, Belize: pure and vibrant.

To take in all of the natural beauty surrounding you in Belize, you’ll want to climb to the top of El Castillo; at 135 feet, it’s one of the tallest Mayan structures in this tiny nation. From the top, you can see the lush rainforest of Peten, the nearby mountains and even across the border into Guatemala. You also can explore the amazing Altun Ha pyramid, an ancient temple built as a symbol of Mayan honor and devotion to the Sun God. If you’re looking for Belize City’s “wild side,” look for flocks of toucans and parrots in the tree-tops, manatees along the coast, baboons at the Community Baboon Sanctuary, crocodiles and wild howler monkeys along the Old Belize River, and jaguars, pumas, ocelots and more at the esteemed Belize Zoo. Shore excursions include snorkeling along the barrier reef, cave tubing and a riverboat ride to get you up close and personal with nature.

The Romantic

Kralendijk, Bonaire: sweet, yet a little mysterious.

The main port on the island of Bonaire in the Caribbean Netherlands, Kralendijk is a picturesque and charming town lined with delightfully pastel stucco houses turned out in pink, orange and lime green. Scores of pink flamingos call the island home, but it’s what lies below the surface that makes the destination even more enticing. The city is widely considered a top diving destination in the Caribbean. For a sampling of what this dreamy island has to offer, enjoy snorkeling or diving among coral reefs, turtles and brightly colored fish in the protected Bonaire National Marine Park; tour the local salt flats and mountains; and don’t miss the local gastronomic delicacy, cactus soup.

The Cosmopolitan

Roseau, Dominica: stunning and chic.

The capital—and largest—city of Dominica, Roseau is a small and compact urban settlement. If you appreciate the finer things in life, we have two words for you: Champagne Beach. These effervescent waters produce an actual “fizz” from the volcanic sea floor. After swimming alongside parrotfish in bubbly waters, there are plenty of other ways to pass the time, including ogling the West Indian architecture in town while scouring the local boutiques. You also can treat yourself to the relaxing and therapeutic powers of Dominica’s natural mineral waters while surrounded by the island’s lush tropical vegetation.

The Adventurer

Roatan, Honduras: wild and untamed.

This narrow strip of land was born with an adventurous spirit, as it was once the domain of Spanish conquistadors and British pirates. Roatan lies in the Caribbean at the southernmost tip of the second biggest barrier reef in the world. Diving with sharks and snorkeling with pods of squid and other exciting sea life are popular pastimes, and excursions offer a survivor-style challenge course that will have you scurrying along jungle paths in the thick rainforest, crawling in mud ravines and climbing cargo nets and hills. If you prefer your challenges with altitude, the Adrenaline Zip-Line Adventure will take you soaring through the skies and between mountains on an exhilarating zip-line tour.

The Scholar

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico: fascinating and soulful.

Costa Maya, once a trading post for the Mayan Empire, is located in the Mexican Caribbean and best known for its jungles, beaches, lagoons and ruins. While this corner of the Caribbean might look serious and sedate at first glance, there is a wealth of history to be explored. The ancient city of Chacchoben dates to 360 AD, when it played an important role in the distribution of such precious items as wood, jade and exotic birds. It was largely unexplored until 1999, but archaeologists now believe this fascinating locale was a thriving metropolis 1,500 years ago.

Best Cruise Revitalizations

Every few years, cruise ships undergo refurbishments to stay fresh and modern, and while some are routine maintenance, others see complete overhauls that introduce new venues and staterooms. As attention-grabbing vessels debut with outlandish new features, cruise lines are launching major campaigns to get the rest of the fleet looking just as snazzy. Here are six impressive cruise ship refurbishments.


Carnival Sunshine

Carnival Destiny was originally constructed in 1996, but was reborn as Carnival Sunshine in May 2013. The renovation included nearly every area of the vessel as it underwent the “Fun Ship 2.0” makeover to the tune of a staggering $155 million — the largest refurb of the fleet.

Upgrades for the kids (and young at heart), included a massive sports venue with the first-ever ropes course at sea as well as “Waterworks” — the new park consisting of three thrilling waterslides and a massive splash bucket. For adults, there is the Red Frog Pub, Cloud 9 spa balcony staterooms, and the Serenity Lounge with a small pool and hot tub.


Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas

Fresh off a January 2016 dry dock, Liberty of the Seas is showing off her new look with major changes to the open decks and a new waterpark as the centerpiece. Three slides make up the spanking new Perfect Storm: a boomerang slide called Tidal Wave and two racing slides (Cyclone and Typhoon) — all located next to the surf simulator. The H20 zone has been transformed into Splashaway Bay — a kid’s play area with water cannons, buckets, and more. Giovanni’s Table (an Italian trattoria) and Sabor Mexican restaurant were added, and 26 panoramic oceanview rooms were installed with massive windows.


Holland America’s ms Eurodam

In preparation for the launch of ms Koningsdam, Holland America has made some changes to the ms Eurodam as part of a $300 million fleet-wide refurbishment program. Suites were enhanced with quartz countertops, furniture, carpeting, USB charging ports, LED reading lamps, sound machines and coffee makers, and a variety of free movie options on flat screen televisions.
The Northern Lights nightclub has been replaced by Gallery Bar for sophisticated cocktails, unique artwork, and a speakeasy vibe. The venue spills out into the casino and “Billboard Onboard,” a new space that features pianists playing some all-time-favorites. Another new addition is Lincoln Center stage, which showcases talented classical musicians.


Windstar’s Star Breeze, Star Legend

In April and May 2015 the Star Breeze and Star Legend debuted following extensive bow-to-stern refurbishments. These included extending the Star deck an extra four feet and installing a new pool and whirlpool; adding an expanded verandah for dining al fresco; replacing the club space with the popular Compass Rose lounge, and introducing a movie screening room. New decor, enhancements and overhauls to every aspect of the vessels cost Windstar $17 million and the result is two gorgeous, all-suite yachts.

Royal Caribbean’s Empress of the Seas

A lot has changed since Empress of the Seas first sailed for Royal Caribbean in 2004 (although the ship was built in 1990), so she has come catching up to do. The ship returns to the fleet this April and after spending more than seven years under the Pullmantur cruise brand, she’s undergoing some serious changes. Staterooms will be refreshed, a Casino Royale will be reintroduced as well as Boleros Latin Lounge, Chop’s Grill — the signature restaurant, Vitality Spa, a rock climbing wall, and an adults-only pool and solarium. There are rumors about her heading to Cuba, but as of now she is scheduled to sail from Miami to Key West and Cozumel.


NCL’s Pride of America

Norwegian Cruise Lines’ Pride of America is based in Hawaii, and she just finished her $30 million refurbishment this March. The ship received a new gelateria (Dolce Gelato), East Meets West Asian restaurant, and a redesigned pool deck with new Jacuzzis and lounge chairs —complete with a “matching” look at Ocean Drive Bar. Every stateroom was refreshed with new bedding and furniture, and the Atrium and John Adams Bar now have a fresh, modern feel. The changes are part of the “Norwegian Edge,” a new program that includes $400 million of ship enhancements and other improvements.

DIY Caribbean Tours

If a traveler has their heart set on seeing an island’s iconic sights, and time is limited, there’s nothing better than joining an organized tour that has a set itinerary and a strict timetable. A traveler with more time on their hands might have a different agenda. Could be they want to see the sights, but also have the option to explore a side street, chat with a stranger, or stop at a roadside stand – in other words, to let real life and serendipity seep into their travels. These self-guided tours could be either walking tours or self-drive adventures, depending on how closely sights are clustered together, and if the island is driver-friendly.

Discovering the Colonial Zone Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is often referred to as the Oldest City in the Americas. Nowhere is this more evident than the city’s Colonial Zone, which is studded with architectural treasures from the 15th and 16th centuries. It’s a compact area, easily explored by foot.

Pick up a map and tick off the major sites, such as Columbus Palace, Ozama Fort, and the Casa del Cordon, the former residence of Christopher Columbus.

Take a break and sit on one of the benches in front of the Nuestra Senora Santa Maria de la Encarnación, the first cathedral in the New World, built in 1508. This is a great vantage spot to people-watch. It also places a traveler in prime position to change focus and stroll down Calle El Conde, the city’s major shopping district, also studded with restaurants and outdoor cafes.



Walking in Willemstad

Curacao’s Dutch heritage is on display in Willemstad, the island’s capital. The city dates back to 1634, and there are a variety of historic structures, such as Fort Amsterdam and the Fort Church museum.

A must-see is The Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere, famous for its sand floor. Take time to wander along the “floating market” selling colorful displays of fish, fruits and vegetables. It’s called the floating market because the produce has been brought by small boats making the 40-mile journey north from Venezuela.

Walking across the 552-feet pontoon Queen Emma Bridge (also known as the “Swinging Old Lady”) brings a traveler to the Otrabanda side of the city, where they can look back to view Curacao’s iconic sight – a cityscape of pastel-colored 18th century colonial houses.



Touring Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

There’s a lot of history packed into the seven square blocks of Old San Juan, founded by Ponce de León back in 1509. There are scores of historic buildings – including Casa Blanca, the former home of Ponce de Leon. But the Big Kahuna is definitely El Morro, an expansive fort offering superb sea views from its walls. Mixed in with the Spanish colonial history are trendy shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering a pleasant respite from sightseeing. Old San Juan’s narrow cobblestone streets can be steep, so wearing comfortable shoes is a must.





Taking a Spin in Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia is one of the most beautiful and romantic islands in the Caribbean. Couples especially will want to rent their own vehicle and set off to explore. Roads are winding, and the speed limit is most often a leisurely 30 mph. The scenery of Saint Lucia is the main player, and the coastal road that circles the island offers one amazing sea view after another.

 Main stops on any itinerary should include the drive in volcano in Soufriere; the soaring peaks of the volcanic twin Pitons, which can be viewed in the fishing town of Soufriere; and the lookout point at Marigot Bay. If driving on the left is a new experience, practice a bit on a quiet road before setting off.



Rolling Through Antigua

Antigua is rich in English heritage and is easily explored by car. Bypass the capital and harbor city of St. John’s and head out to the countryside. Here a traveler will find roads leading to historic sugar mills dating back to the 17th century (Betty’s Hope windmill is a standout).

Make a stop at the Devil’s Bridge, a blowhole shooting plumes of salt spray into the air; catch the sea views from historic Fort Barrington; and plan the drive so the last stop is at sunset, at the 500-foot vantage point of Shirley Heights, and wait for the green flash as the sun dips into the sea.

If it’s a Sunday drive you’ll be in luck, since Shirley Heights throws the island’s biggest party every Sunday, with island barbecue and live reggae and steel band music.

Happy Cruising!

Article courtesy of  USA TODAY

Five Myths About Shore Excursions

We offer shore excursions that get you easily to the top sights and activities at each port of call. The idea is making the most of your time – even if your goal is just to sit under an umbrella at the beach, this is a hassle-free way to do it.

On the other hand, shore excursions, mostly conducted with local operators, can add considerably to your cruise vacation costs. So are they worth doing?

Here we examine five myths about shore excursions to help you decide.

Myth 1: Shore excursions are a rip-off

Shore excursions are a practical way to see sights within a set time period (while the ship is in port) and can represent significant value – especially in places where top attractions are far from the pier. When looking at cost, you need to review what's included: transportation, a guide, admission fees and any extras (such as lunch and drinks). Consider the time you save in DIY planning, and that with an excursion you don't need to think about finding a cab, speaking the local language or exchanging money. You are also paying for vetted operators – you aren't taking off with some random dude and his magnificent flying machine.

Myth #2: Shore excursions always involve bus tours and crowds

Bus tours work well for some cruisers – particularly those who want to at least glimpse the top sights in a city but can't do an extensive walking tour. Buses are also a convenient way for a cruise ship to disperse crowds of passengers – one bus might bring a group to a nature center for a hike, while another heads off to explore Mayan ruins. If you just hate buses or want a smaller group experience, shore excursion lineups are full of various other ways to see the sights – including escorted van, boat, floatplane, helicopter, bike and walking tours.

Myth #3: Shore excursions are boring

What you do on a shore excursion may be a highlight of your cruise vacation. We're talking once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as kissing a dolphin in the Caribbean or viewing the French countryside from a hot air balloon. You'll find a bunch of options that are far from sedate – deep-sea fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, snorkeling, horseback riding, ziplining and ATV tours, to name a few. Book an Alaska cruise and you can land on a glacier to go dogsledding. Those seeking a taste of local culture will find cooking classes, dance performances and visits to local artist studios among the offerings.

Myth #4: Expensive shore excursions are better

On any excursion, commentary can be hokey, entertaining or intellectually stimulating. If a meal is included, it may be a gourmet feast or a boring buffet. Likewise, some activities are more worthwhile than others – with weather sometimes a factor, for instance in boat tours. It pays before you book to go online and read what other passengers are saying about the excursions.

Myth #5: You don't need to book in advance.

You should book in advance for a few reasons. First of all, you'll be able to do research including carefully reading any fitness requirements of the tours, and can contact us with any questions. Secondly, you can plan out your budget and time – you'll know which days you're on a tour, which days you're on your own exploring and which days you'll be kicking back. Thirdly, you'll assure you'll get on the excursion you want. Local operators may be able to add extra buses and time slots for popular tours and activities. Still, do you really want to take a chance that the one thing you really want to do on shore will be an excursion that sells out?

Happy Cruising!


Excepts from USA Today

Best Cruises For Millennials and Young At Heart

Cruise lines have their eyes clearly set on Millennials, roughly described as young adults in their 20s and early 30s. These cruisers, or in most cases potential cruisers, are looking to stay connected, want to be entertained, hope to be good parents and like their vacation to include new experiences.   If all that sounds good and shuffleboard, endless buffets and old-fashioned show productions just won't cut it with for you, check out these cruises.

Quantum/Anthem of the Seas:

If there is a ship built for Millennials this is it. From robot bartenders (industrial robots programmed to make drinks) to bumper cars, to indoor skydiving, to the fastest Internet at sea (and at reasonable, unlimited use prices), this is a ship for the new generation. The "main" dining room has been eliminated in favor of more than a dozen restaurants and you can make reservations via an app on your smartphone or by taping your radio frequency ship wristband at locations around the ship. Entertainment includes performers interacting with digital screens controlled by robot arms. The future is now, on sailings from Bayonne, New Jersey to the Caribbean.

Allure of the Seas/Oasis of the Seas:

Despite fleet-mate Quantum's unmatched awesomeness, these ships are the largest in the world and cruise the Caribbean with more cool activities onboard than you can possibly do in a week – though you should definitely try soaring down a zipline above the Boardwalk, one of seven shipboard "neighborhoods." Test your surfing skills on the FlowRider, hit the rock-climbing wall, go ice-skating, munch burgers at Johnny Rockets and order lattes from Starbucks when you're not eating ice cream from Ben & Jerry's or shopping at Coach. Bonus: You can pose for photos with Shrek (with DreamWorks characters part of the fun).

Norwegian Getaway/Norwegian Breakaway:

"Freestyle Cruising" means a flexible schedule when it comes to dining – there are some 27 eateries on these ships, including sushi and Asian options. As you cruise the Caribbean you can try your hand at one of the largest ropes course at sea – where The Plank helps you to pretend you're in "Pirates of the Caribbean" and walk a few feet off the ship. Kids will enjoy interacting with Nickelodeon characters and racing each other down the slides in the waterpark. Bar and lounge choices abound, including a real Svedka Ice Bar (you put on a parka to imbibe) and the outdoor dance club Spice H20, where during a weekly 80s night you and your side ponytail can dance under the stars to Madonna and Devo.

Disney Fantasy/Disney Dream:

Whether you've already got kids or you just like the idea of reliving your childhood, Disney ships bring back the memories. Celebrate your nostalgia by interacting with plenty of costumed characters, watching first-run Disney movies and attending shows featuring popular movie tunes. If you're looking for thrills, check out the 765-foot AquaDuck watercoaster, the only such ride at sea. Kids ages 3 months to 17 will be immersed in age-appropriate activities, leaving you free to hang out at an adults-only pool with cool coffee shop/bar. At night you'll find a surprisingly adult party scene – including a lively dance club and several bars. On Disney's picture-perfect private island, Castaway Cay, you can play with water cannons when you're not lounging on the beach.

Cunard's Queen Mary 2:

A decade old, the cruise world's fastest ship is one of the most traditional at sea. That makes it perfect for Millennials looking for a nostalgic, classic experience. Go ballroom dancing in a real ballroom, sip Veuve Clicquot Champagne from Waterford Crystal flutes at the champagne bar, visit the only planetarium at sea, have a pint in the British-style pub, and party all night at the two-level G32 disco, all while crossing the Atlantic between New York and Southampton.

Carnival Cruise Lines: 

The updated "Fun Ships" have a lot Millennials will enjoy, not the least of which is a lively atmosphere and budget prices. You can do a quick, three-, four- or five-day cruise this fall from a variety of ports at fantastic budget-friendly fares.  Carnival Corp. (parent company of nine brands) is debuting a new hybrid WiFi@Sea setup that promises faster and cheaper connections. The Carnival Live! concert series brings well-known artists onboard to perform at select ports – including Daughtry and REO Speedwagon in December. The shipboard scene includes waterslides, ropes courses, Guy Fieri burgers, themed bars, adults-only sunning areas, Dr. Seuss characters, top-rate comedians and experienced DJs.

Un-Cruise Adventures:

 Up for an adventure? Some of the small ships (as few as 22 passengers) of this Seattle-based line take you into the wilderness for days spent hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and standup paddle-boarding in places including Alaska's Glacier Bay, the Hawaiian Islands and Mexico's Sea of Cortez. There's a focus on group exploration, though there's also plenty of opportunities to explore on your own. Captains have flexibility to change itineraries if, for instance, a pod of whales is spotted. But warning: This experience is nearly always unplugged (Wi-Fi only offered on Galapagos sailings).

Happy Cruising!

Excerpts From USA Today