Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Zagat Survey rates cruise lines - picks Cunard as "top overall"]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/21/zagat-survey-rates-cruise-lines-picks-cunard-as-top-overall/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/21/zagat-survey-rates-cruise-lines-picks-cunard-as-top-overall/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/21/zagat-survey-rates-cruise-lines-picks-cunard-as-top-overall/#commentsFiled under:



After years of reviewing hotels, nightlife, bars and restaurants, the Zagat Survey has started publishing results of its first cruise line survey.

To generate reliable results, the Zagat.com survey asked cruise passengers for their opinion of cabins, service, facilities, activities and of course dining. The results were split into three categories - large ships, mid size ships and small ships (under 200 passengers). In total, over 22,700 cruise trips were used to reach a conclusion.

The winner of the "best overall" category was Cunard Line. Given the rich tradition of top class service on the Cunard ships, it should come as no surprise that they took the top spot. In the individual categories, Cunard won in the dining and facilities categories, and took the second spot in activities, right behind Disney.

Cunard Line has been crossing the Atlantic since 1840 and currently operates two ships - the Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Victoria. In October of next year, the brand new Queen Elizabeth will join the fleet.

More on the results of the Zagat cruise line survey can be found here, and a PDF with the complete results is here.

Zagat Survey rates cruise lines - picks Cunard as "top overall" originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cunardCunard Cruise LineCunardCruiseLinezagatzagat surveyZagatGuidesZagatSurveySat, 21 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Antarctic Travel Guide]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/21/antarctic-travel-guide/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/21/antarctic-travel-guide/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/21/antarctic-travel-guide/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In recent years, one of the most popular destinations for adventure travelers has been Antarctica. The lure of visiting one of the most remote, and rugged places on the planet is a strong one for travelers who have already trekked, paddled, and climbed their way across the other six continents. But for the less adventurous traveler, it can be difficult to understand why someone would even want to venture so far south, and spend their vacation in an arctic environment.

U.K. newspaper The Independent is here to help both kinds of travelers with their guide to Antarctica, which is a well written and comprehensive look at what it's like to travel in and around the frozen continent, starting with the question "Why?". The article notes that last year just 38,200 people made the trip, most aboard luxury cruise ships, and part of the draw is that so few people get the opportunity to experience the stunningly beautiful, but desolate landscapes that are the hallmark of the place.

The travel guide also discusses such topics as the best places to begin your Antarctic voyage, recommending New Zealand, although Chile is a popular starting point as well. Readers are also given an overview of the terrain and what they can expected while cruising the icy waters of the Southern Ocean. The Independent even addresses the issues with ships running aground in recent years, noting that while there have been some high profile incidences, they remain rare, and steps have been taken to ensure the safety of tourists in the region.

This is an excellent article for those who are interested in making the trip to the southern end of the world or for those that just want to know what that type of voyage entails. Be prepared however, as there are few bargains when it comes to traveling to Antarctica.

Antarctic Travel Guide originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure cruiseadventure traveladventure-travelAdventureCruiseAdventureTravelantarctic cruiseantarcticaantarcticcruiseSat, 21 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Auspicious start to Antarctic tourist season]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/auspicous-start-to-antarctic-tourist-season/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/auspicous-start-to-antarctic-tourist-season/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/auspicous-start-to-antarctic-tourist-season/#commentsFiled under: ,

November marks the beginning of the tourist season in the icy waters off the coast of Antarctica. It is mid-spring down south, and travelers with a sense of adventure, and plenty of cash, are heading to the frozen continent to get the opportunity to visit one of the last true frontiers on the planet, and possibly get a glimpse of Emperor Penguins while they're in the neighborhood too.

The past few years have been challenging ones for Antarctic cruise ships. In 2007, the MS Explorer sunk after hitting an iceberg, and last year two more ships ran aground while maneuvering through the treacherous waters. Fortunately no one was hurt in those incidences, although the sinking of the Explorer did create an ecological disaster when tens of thousands of gallons of fuel were released into the water.

With the 2009 tourist season barely underway, there has already been in incident in the Weddell Sea, off the coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, where a Russian icebreaker called the Captain Khlebnikov became trapped by ice for the better part of two days. The ship, which carries roughly 100 passengers, found itself stuck behind large icebergs when winds shifted, causing the ice to close all access to open waters. While the boat was never in any real danger, it was unable to continue along its intended route, preventing those aboard from following their intended itinerary.

Continue reading Auspicious start to Antarctic tourist season

Auspicious start to Antarctic tourist season originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure cruiseadventure traveladventure-travelAdventureCruiseAdventureTravelantarcticashipsThu, 19 Nov 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling reviews the new Carnival Dream cruise ship]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/17/gadling-reviews-the-new-carnival-dream/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/17/gadling-reviews-the-new-carnival-dream/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/17/gadling-reviews-the-new-carnival-dream/#commentsFiled under:



Last week, I took a 3 day cruise "to nowhere" on board the newest member of the Carnival Cruise Lines fleet. The Carnival Dream is the first in their "dream class" line of ships. The ship itself is massive - 130,000 tons, space for just under 3500 passengers, spread out over 11 decks.

Continue reading Gadling reviews the new Carnival Dream cruise ship

Gadling reviews the new Carnival Dream cruise ship originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carnivalCarnival Corp.Carnival Cruise Linescarnival dreamCarnivalCorp.CarnivalCruiseLinesCarnivalDreamTue, 17 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Carnival Dream laser show looks great in thick fog]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/14/the-carnival-dream-laser-show-looks-great-in-thick-fog/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/14/the-carnival-dream-laser-show-looks-great-in-thick-fog/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/14/the-carnival-dream-laser-show-looks-great-in-thick-fog/#commentsFiled under:



We are currently about 100 miles off the coast of Long Island, in the middle of some really thick fog. Thick fog means two things - constant blowing of the ships horn, and a really neat effect up on the tenth deck for the laser show. The crew normally uses smoke generators, but the wind is so strong that it is blowing all their man made smoke away.

Tonight's laser show was accompanied by Pink Floyd music, and the effect is actually quite stunning. The weather has been pretty miserable, but we are all covered by nice warm blankets, though those obviously don't stop the damn ship from rocking and rolling all night long (though lots of booze does).

Later tonight the ship will be heading back to New York, ending its 2 night inaugural US voyage.

Disclaimer: this trip was paid for by Carnival Cruise Lines, but as with everything I write, my opinions are mine, and mine only. I am free to say whatever I want, which means I'll be telling you all about the dreadful boarding procedure in New York when I am back home on solid ground.

The Carnival Dream laser show looks great in thick fog originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CarnivalSat, 14 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling coming to you live from the Carnival Dream]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/13/gadling-coming-to-you-live-from-the-carnival-dream/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/13/gadling-coming-to-you-live-from-the-carnival-dream/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/13/gadling-coming-to-you-live-from-the-carnival-dream/#commentsFiled under:



Over the next couple of days, we'll be coming to you live from the Carnival Dream - the newest ship in the Carnival fleet. This ship sets sail from New York in one hour, but thanks to satellite Internet, we'll try and keep you updated with some of the cool new features on board this new "Dream Class" cruise ship.

Gadling coming to you live from the Carnival Dream originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carnivalcruiseFri, 13 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Princess cruises holds its first ever "High Seas" talent showcase]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/11/princess-cruises-holds-its-first-ever-high-seas-talent-showcas/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/11/princess-cruises-holds-its-first-ever-high-seas-talent-showcas/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/11/princess-cruises-holds-its-first-ever-high-seas-talent-showcas/#commentsFiled under:



I'll admit that I know very little about the entertainment world, but for some reason, I imagine that being part of a cruise ship entertainment team is a ton of fun. You get to sail around the world, and you get to put on your best act once a night.

Princess Cruises just held its first ever talent showcase at their very own entertainment studio in Santa Clarita. They had it all - from a Beatles tribute band to various comedy and variety acts. The showcase featured nice finalists, chosen from thousands of applicants.

The finalists will compete for a spot on one of the 17 ships in the Princess Cruises fleet. The cruise line puts on over 8000 performances each year, making them one of the largest producers of entertainment in the country. If you have a special talent you'd love to share with the cruising public, head on over to the Princess Cruises entertainment recruitment site.

(The photo posted above is of Ashley Winn from Sarasota, Florida as she performs her act with more than 30 hula hoops!)

Continue reading Princess cruises holds its first ever "High Seas" talent showcase

Princess cruises holds its first ever "High Seas" talent showcase originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cruisecruise shipcruise shipscruisesCruiseShipCruiseShipsprincessprincess cruisesPrincessCruisesWed, 11 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plan a luxury safari in the US with American Safari Cruises]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/09/plan-a-luxury-safari-in-the-us-with-american-safari-cruises/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/09/plan-a-luxury-safari-in-the-us-with-american-safari-cruises/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/09/plan-a-luxury-safari-in-the-us-with-american-safari-cruises/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When most people think of a "safari" they think of hiking through the bush of South Africa or trekking through the jungles of Costa Rica in search of exotic animals native to the region.

But here in the US we have plenty of our own wild animals to see and going "on safari" here doesn't have to mean doing one of those drive-though "wild animal" parks where non-native animals like zebras and giraffes flock to your car for the food they know you're going to throw at them through your open window.

For a more upscale safari trip in the United States, check out American Safari Cruises, which offers small-group ultra-luxury all-inclusive sailings around North America. There's aren't your typical mega-cruises. The vessels are yatchs and are limited to 12, 22 or 36 guests. All meals, airport transfers, alcoholic drinks and shores excursions are included in the price. And according to the company's website, they institute green and sustainable practices, and give back to the communities they visit on each safari.

Some of the safaris offered include spotting whales, black bears, grizzly bears, bald eagles, mountain goats and wolves in Alaska, birdwatching and snorkeling with sea turtles and exotic fish in Hawaii, and looking for whales, sea lions, seals, black bears and deer in the Pacific Northwest.

Cruises range from 7 to 14 nights and rates start at about $5000 per person.

Plan a luxury safari in the US with American Safari Cruises originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaskaalaska cruisealaska cruise vacationsAlaska CruisesAlaskaCruiseAlaskaCruisesAlaskaCruiseVacationsblack bearblack bearsBlackBearBlackBearscruisegrizzly bearGrizzlyBearhawaiiluxuryluxury cruisesLuxuryCruisespacific northwestPacificNorthwestsafarisnorkelingturtleturtleswhalewhale watchingwhalesWhaleWatchingwild animalswildamericaWildAnimalswildlifeyachtyatchMon, 09 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Oasis of the Seas: designed to keep your dollars captive (and "dumb down" the travel experience)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/04/the-oasis-of-the-seas-designed-to-keep-your-dollars-captive-an/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/04/the-oasis-of-the-seas-designed-to-keep-your-dollars-captive-an/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/04/the-oasis-of-the-seas-designed-to-keep-your-dollars-captive-an/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Royal Caribbean's $1.4 billion new ship, the Oasis of the Seas, is notable not just because of its measurements. They're extraordinarily impressive measurements, to be sure: 20 stories high, 1,180 feet long, 2,700 staterooms, 225,282 tons. But for its guests, the even bigger story is what those measurements do to the traveling experience.

Arthur Frommer is one of the last great travel muckrackers in an industry crowded with fawning types, and his latest consumer reporting nugget comes from plain sight: the summer 2010 itineraries of the Oasis. The ship, which will depart from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades, will be crowding its trips with at-sea days.

On many week-long trips, he finds, the Oasis will spend as many as three whole days, or half its time away from port, out at sea with no contact with any port or culture. On many itineraries, one of the only days spent on land will be passed on the cruise line's private beach of Labadee, on the coast of Haiti. That makes four out of six days, or two-thirds of the trip, that all 6,300 passengers on a full ship will be Royal Caribbean's captive audience, only spending their dollars with the company.

On many runs, a fifth day will be spent at Costa Maya, a remote beach location that was largely built and maintained exclusively for cruise ship passengers. The only day on those week-long trips spent at an actual, authentic port of call will be the one passed at Cozumel, which Frommer proclaims "the world's dullest port visit."

Gallery: Oasis of the Seas

Continue reading The Oasis of the Seas: designed to keep your dollars captive (and "dumb down" the travel experience)

The Oasis of the Seas: designed to keep your dollars captive (and "dumb down" the travel experience) originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Royal Caribbean takes delivery of the Oasis of the Seas - the largest cruise ship in the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/royal-caribbean-takes-delivery-of-the-oasis-of-the-seas/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/royal-caribbean-takes-delivery-of-the-oasis-of-the-seas/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/royal-caribbean-takes-delivery-of-the-oasis-of-the-seas/#commentsFiled under:



Royal Caribbean must be one very proud cruise line. Today they took delivery of the Oasis of the Seas. Cruise lines are ordering and signing for new ships all the time, but the Oasis of the Seas is something very, very special.

With 16 decks, 2,700 rooms, and seven different "districts", Royal Caribbean actually achieved two things today - they got a new ship, and they became the owners of the largest cruise ship in the world.

The Oasis of the Seas is unlike anything ever built, and brings some amazing innovations to the oceans. A nine level zip line lets guests race through the massive open air atrium, kids can take a ride on a handcrafted carousel, and at the end of the day, you can relax in one of the 28 multilevel loft suites with floor to ceiling windows, or head up to the aquatic amphitheater. The list of attractions, restaurants and amenities is endless.

The Oasis of the Seas will be named at her inaugural celebration fundraiser on November 30. Funds will benefit the Make-A-Wish foundation. The inaugural sailing is on December 5 and guests will receive special entertainment and gifts to commemorate the occasion.

I highly recommend visiting the site of the Oasis of the Seas to discover all the innovations and fun. If you'd like to participate in the fundraiser, or the inaugural voyage, contact Royal Caribbean at (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.

If you can't make the voyage, you can still get up close and personal - On Friday November 20th, the ship will be welcomed to her home port of Fort Lauderdale on a live "Good Morning America" broadcast. In the coming weeks we'll take a closer look at everything this ship has to offer.

Royal Caribbean takes delivery of the Oasis of the Seas - the largest cruise ship in the world originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>oasis of the seasOasisOfTheSeasroyal caribbeanroyal caribbean cruise lineroyal caribbean cruisesRoyalCaribbeanRoyalCaribbeanCruiseLineRoyalCaribbeanCruisesWed, 28 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Twilight fans get their own cruise]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/20/twilight-fans-get-their-own-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/20/twilight-fans-get-their-own-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/20/twilight-fans-get-their-own-cruise/#commentsFiled under: ,

A cruise ship ... at twilightHoly "New Moon," I was joking when I referenced a cruise for "Twilight" fans in my article Heterosexual couple booked on a gay cruise sues cruise line, but thanks to the wonderful and well-informed commenters on Digg, I have learned that it's actually a real thing (thanks, darkmagic311).

Billed as a "Convention at Sea for Twilight Fans," the Alaska Twilight Cruise will take place on August 8-15, 2010, beginning and ending in Seattle -- and they intend to make it a yearly event. The cruise will feature a Q&A and autograph session with "Twlight" actors Ashley Greene, Alex Meraz and Michael Welch (and they're hoping to add a fourth), a costume ball, a charity auction and all the glory of Glacier Bay, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and Victoria, B.C. "Imagine an Alaska Cruise Adventure with a Twilight Convention at Sea ... it's the best of both worlds ... for sure," says Linda Wolf, owner and "Captain."

The operating company, Cruises Cruises Cruises, has previously arranged Star Trek, Barbie and Beatles cruises. How's that for versatility? Prices range from $1049 per person in a 2-bed inside room to $3299 per person in a 4-bed deluxe verandah suite, convention fee and fuel surcharges not included. Visit TwilightFansCruise.com for more information.

Twilight fans get their own cruise originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaskacruisenew moonNewMoonseattletwilightTue, 20 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Teenage Aussie set to sail around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/18/teenage-aussie-set-to-sail-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/18/teenage-aussie-set-to-sail-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/18/teenage-aussie-set-to-sail-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jessica Watson likes to travel, but she approaches the concept a bit differently. The 16-year-old Australian just left Sydney Harbor today, and she wants to take on the world. Her goal is to sail 23,600 miles alone -- through some of the toughest waters in the world -- and become the youngest person in history to do so.

The trek has kicked off some debate in Australia as to whether Watson's parents are nuts for letting her attempt this (not a position that's hard to imagine).The family claims that the kid is plenty salty and knows her way around a ship, and she'll have radio and e-mail access. She'll be blogging, too. In the Netherlands, a pair parents disagreed on whether to let their 13-year-old daughter, Laura Dekker, attempt the same feat. A Dutch court put Dekker in the custody of childcare authorities while the parents fought it out.

For Watson, just getting her pink, 34-foot yacht to the starting line has been difficult. Last week, she collided with a cargo ship while sailing to Sydney to make a few last preparations for her journey. And, strong winds last week prompted the sailor to push back her start date.

Continue reading Teenage Aussie set to sail around the world

Teenage Aussie set to sail around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 18 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britaincaliforniacircumnavigatecircumnavigatingcircumnavigationharborsailsailboatsailingsailing yachtSailingYachtsailorsydneyyachtyachtsSun, 18 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heterosexual couple booked on a gay cruise sues cruise line]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/16/heterosexual-couple-booked-on-a-gay-cruise-sues-cruise-line/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/16/heterosexual-couple-booked-on-a-gay-cruise-sues-cruise-line/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/16/heterosexual-couple-booked-on-a-gay-cruise-sues-cruise-line/#commentsFiled under: ,

Surprise!So, you saved all your money
For a cruise with your honey,
And when you get there,
You notice something funny.
"It's not that there's anything wrong"
So they say,
But everyone else on your cruise ship is gay.

Yes, this happened. According to The Daily Mail, a heterosexual couple accidentally ended up on Italy's first gay cruise, and they are suing the cruise line for not informing them. "The middle-aged husband and wife, who have not been named, said they were embarrassed after spotting people they knew, but had not realised were gay, on the cruise," reports Nick Pisa.

Awkward!

Even if they hadn't spotted anyone they'd known, you would think Grimaldi Lines, the cruise line in question, would have been a little more careful -- especially with their first ever foray into this touchy niche.

The couple reportedly booked the cruise with loyalty points from their grocery store. I guess they didn't know it was that kind of grocery store. They're suing for £2,800.

Some are saying the couple is making a big deal out of nothing or calling them homophobic, but I think I'd sue, too. Anytime you are being put on a boat with a target audience, you should be informed. I would also sue if I unexpectedly ended up with my boyfriend on Italy's First Singles Cruise, Italy's First All-Nine-Inch-Nails-All-Day Cruise, or Italy's First Cruise for Twilight Fans (no offense to any aforementioned parties).

Basically, it's great to have cruises for niche markets, but in my opinion, you've got to be pretty aggressively upfront about it. People get sued for serving hot coffee, after all.

Gallery: The newest innovations in cruise ship entertainment

Bigger roomsCarnival Dream water parkGlass blowing expositionCelebrity Cruises lawn clubFlow-Rider surf simulator


[via USAToday]

Heterosexual couple booked on a gay cruise sues cruise line originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cruisegay cruiseGayCruisegrimaldi linesGrimaldiLinessuesuedFri, 16 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Three days of cruise fun on the Carnival Elation for just $99]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/14/three-days-of-cruise-fun-on-the-carnival-elation-for-just-99/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/14/three-days-of-cruise-fun-on-the-carnival-elation-for-just-99/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/14/three-days-of-cruise-fun-on-the-carnival-elation-for-just-99/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you need proof that this is the best time ever for finding hot travel deals, look no further than this offer. Enjoy a three day cruise on the Carnival Elation, sailing from San Diego to Ensenada, Mexico (and back) for just $99.

The Elation is one of the Carnival "Fun Class" ships - and the entertainment on board certainly justifies the name. From a three deck waterslide to a jogging track, ping pong, mini golf, adults only retreat, various kids clubs, a spa, live entertainment and of course various restaurants.

The $99 rate is only valid on the October 19th departure for an inside room. If you live in the area, this is a great chance to relax on the cheap. Remember, $99 includes all your meals and entertainment. Drinks and some on-board services are extra, and you'll pay about $50 in government fees.

The itinerary is also available on October 26th and on November 23rd ($149 for an inside room) . You'll find this deal on the Carnival site, where you'll also find a list of shore activities and more information about the ship.

Three days of cruise fun on the Carnival Elation for just $99 originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carnivalelationensenadasan diegoSanDiegoWed, 14 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Antarctic tour operators recommend further safety measures]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/14/antarctic-tour-operators-recommend-further-safety-measures/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/14/antarctic-tour-operators-recommend-further-safety-measures/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/14/antarctic-tour-operators-recommend-further-safety-measures/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Just a few short weeks before the Antarctic cruise season gets underway, the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) has recommended further safety measures in the wake of several high profile accidents in the region over the past few years.

The IAATO is a completely voluntary organization, made up of companies that operate cruises in the Southern Ocean. In recent months it has taken a leadership role to ensure the safety of tourists traveling in the waters off the Antarctica, with their most recent recommendations detailed in a press release last week. These include continually reviewing information services that provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on weather and ice conditions, as well as staying abreast of changes in technology that may help keep the ships safer in the dangerous waters of the Southern Ocean. The IAATO also recommends that tour companies review their emergency procedures on a regular basis, practice onboard safety drills, and stress the importance of proper cold weather attire for passengers and crew.

Continue reading Antarctic tour operators recommend further safety measures

Antarctic tour operators recommend further safety measures originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure cruiseadventure traveladventure-travelAdventureCruiseAdventureTravelantarcticantarcticacruisecruisesiaatoWed, 14 Oct 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Titantic memorial cruise announced for 2012]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/06/mark-the-100th-anniversary-of-the-titantic-by-cruising-the-north/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/06/mark-the-100th-anniversary-of-the-titantic-by-cruising-the-north/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/06/mark-the-100th-anniversary-of-the-titantic-by-cruising-the-north/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

History buffs and travelers with a sense of the macabre take note! 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, and to commemorate U.K. based Miles Morgan Travel is planning a cruise that will follow the same path as that iconic vessel. Presumably without the iceberg.

On April 8, 2012, a chartered ship named the Balmoral will set sail from Southhampton, England, just as Titanic did 100 years earlier. The ship will have its first stop over in Cobh, Ireland, which is also a port of call on the original voyage. From there, it is out on to the open water of the Northern Atlantic, where, on April 15th, the Balmoral will visit the exact spot of the sinking of Titanic, exactly a century after the fact. The passengers and crew will then hold a memorial for those that were lost on that tragic day, before proceeding on to Halifax, Nova Scotia, where they will visit three cemeteries, where passengers of Titanic found their final resting place. Finally, the voyage will finish up in New York City, the same destination that the "unsinkable" Titanic was bound for on that fateful journey.

The Balmoral can hold 1350 passengers and sails with a crew of 510. The luxury liner will serve a menu that matches the one from a century before, and live bands will play music from that era as well. Passengers can attend special historical lectures while en route and enjoy a cruise that will be a bit like stepping back in time. Prices start at $3900 and each of the 710 cabins is expected to be sold out.

For more information on this very unique cruise or to book your own cabin, go to BortonOverSeas.com, the company in charge of taking reservations for the voyage. Their Titatanic Memorial Cruise page has everything you'll need to know before you follow the famous ship into history.

Titantic memorial cruise announced for 2012 originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantic oceanAtlanticOceancruisecruise shipcruisesCruiseShiphistoricalhistorytitanicTue, 06 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Carnival Virtual Book of Dreams is awaiting your vote!]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/29/the-carnival-virtual-book-of-dreams-is-awaiting-your-vote/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/29/the-carnival-virtual-book-of-dreams-is-awaiting-your-vote/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/29/the-carnival-virtual-book-of-dreams-is-awaiting-your-vote/#commentsFiled under: ,

Last month, I wrote about the Carnival Virtual Book of Dreams Contest. In this contest, children were invited to submit their dreams for a chance to become the world's first ever cruise ship waterslide Godchild.

The winner will also be invited to travel to New York to christen the aqua park on board the new Carnival Dream.

The five finalists have been selected, and you are invited to pick your favorite dream. In addition to helping one of these children win the contest, your vote will also help the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, as Carnival will donate $1 for each vote.

Voting wil run until October 4th, and the grand prize winner will be announced on October 12th.

Click here to view the finalists, and cast your vote.

The Carnival Virtual Book of Dreams is awaiting your vote! originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[December is cougar season on San Diego cruise]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/22/december-is-cougar-season-on-san-diego-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/22/december-is-cougar-season-on-san-diego-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/22/december-is-cougar-season-on-san-diego-cruise/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Women of a certain age and vigor will leave San Diego in December on the first "cougar cruise" to hit the high seas. Singles Travel Company and singles group The Society of Single Professionals are collaborating on this three-night experience ... and they'll be packing the ship with younger men for the cougars on board to hunt. For a change, man becomes prey and cougar the prowler.

In case you're unaware, a cougar is an older women who happens to enjoy the ... ummmm ... "company" of younger men.

The appropriately named Carnival Elation leaves the harbor on December 4, 2009 - unlike the action on board - it will actually make a stop (in Ensenada, Mexico). For $125, not including government and port fees, guests will enjoy three nights of cougar coupling. For young men eying the ultimate trophy, Miss Cougar America 2009, Gloria Navarro, will be on board. But, if you think you call the shots with her young man, you're out of your mind.

December is cougar season on San Diego cruise originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiacougarcougarscruisecruise shipcruise shipsCruiseShipCruiseShipsensenadasan diegosan diego californiaSanDiegoSanDiegoCaliforniaTue, 22 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney Cruise Line heading to Alaska in 2011]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/13/disney-cruise-line-heading-to-alaska-in-2011/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/13/disney-cruise-line-heading-to-alaska-in-2011/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/13/disney-cruise-line-heading-to-alaska-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Starting May 3rd 2011, Disney Cruise Line will be offering an Alaska itinerary. The 7 night Alaska cruise starts in Vancouver and after day at sea will take guests to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, followed by another sea day before arriving back in Vancouver.

The cruise will be offered on board the Disney Wonder, their 964 foot long, 2400 passenger vessel. The Disney Wonder offers guests three pools, 6 youth clubs, 7 lounges and bars, 9 restaurants and of course a whole host of Disney themed entertainment.

For a modest fee, parents can check their little ones into one of the on-board kids clubs, allowing them to enjoy themselves without the kids for a couple of hours.

The Disney Wonder currently sails in the Bahamas, Mexican Riviera and the Panama Canal, so the repositioning to Alaska during the summer is an interesting choice - I'm guessing it has something to do with a drop in passenger numbers on cruise lines, especially in that area, along with overcapacity. The Alaska Cruise market is still relatively popular, so this Disney gamble should mean they'll be able to fill their ships quite easily.

If you are interested in a Disney Alaska Cruise, you'll be able to book your voyage starting September 28th 2009. In addition to the Alaska route, Disney will also be offering 2 repositioning cruises from Los Angeles to Vancouver (April 27th 2011) and Vancouver back to Los Angeles (September 20th 2011).

(Via: Anchorage Daily News, thanks Matt!)

Disney Cruise Line heading to Alaska in 2011 originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 13 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaskaalaska cruisealaska cruise vacationsalaska cruisesAlaskaCruiseAlaskaCruisesAlaskaCruiseVacationsdisney cruise linedisney cruisesDisneyCruiseLineDisneyCruisesSun, 13 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Carnival cruise passengers spend weekend in Antigua ... in jail]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/09/carnival-cruise-passengers-spend-weekend-in-antigua-in-jail/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/09/carnival-cruise-passengers-spend-weekend-in-antigua-in-jail/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/09/carnival-cruise-passengers-spend-weekend-in-antigua-in-jail/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It looks like Carnival could use some new passengers. Not even a week after banning a family for life - and then reversing the ban - six passengers on one of its ships have been detained in Antigua. Now, if you're going to get stuck someplace, Antigua isn't bad, but I'd rather be in a resort than involved with the criminal justice system - it just seems more fun.

Dolores Lalanne, 25, Mike Pierre Paul, 24, Joshua Jackson, 25, Shoshonnah Henry, 24, Nancy Lalanne, 22, and Rachael Henry, 27 have been charged with assault, battery and malicious damage. A fight over cab fare got out of hand and turned into an altercation with the local police. They are being held in Antigua until trial.

The alleged fight broke out on Friday, when the Carnival Victory passengers got off the ship for a 10-hour port call. The passengers refused to pay a cab driver, claiming they were being overcharged. Original reports of the story say that the cab driver quoted a $50 price for a tour that would end at a beach. He later told them, supposedly, that it would cost more to get back to the ship. The driver drove the passengers to a police station, which is where the fight is said to have broken out.

After spending the weekend in jail, the passengers were released on $5,000 bail but had to give up their travel documents and check in with the court regularly. Apparently, jail is unpleasant in Antigua, particularly because of the mosquitoes.

Continue reading Carnival cruise passengers spend weekend in Antigua ... in jail

Carnival cruise passengers spend weekend in Antigua ... in jail originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiguaassaultbatterycarnivalcarnival cruisecarnival cruise linescarnival cruisesCarnivalCruiseCarnivalCruiseLinesCarnivalCruisescrimecriminaljailWed, 09 Sep 2009 08:30:00 EST