Big Fat Cruise Wrap
Harmony of the Seas arrives into first port of call
The port of Southampton, U.K. was bustling as onlookers gathered to be among the first to see the world’s largest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, upon her first arrival into port. After 32 months of construction, the ship’s arrival marks a major milestone for Royal Caribbean International as Harmony becomes the 25th ship in the fleet.
Royal Caribbean International President and CEO, Michael Bayley, said “Harmony of the Seas is redefining cruise holidays and intriguing a new generation of travellers with a bold and unexpected line-up of first at sea innovations, while enticing them to explore the world from a new perspective.”
“From thrilling onboard activities and experiences to visiting awe-inspiring destinations across the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, Harmony places guests at the forefront and encourages them to create their own adventures onboard and at every destination.”
Intricately built with more than 500,000 individual parts, Harmony measures 362 meters, nearly four football fields long, and weighs 226,963 gross registered tons.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises launches 2018 World Cruise on Seven Seas Navigator
Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced plans for another epic voyage to circumnavigate the globe in 2018, with an innovative itinerary that explores sensational destinations across the Southern Hemisphere.
The 137-night Navigate the World voyage will set sail aboard the luxury line’s most intimate ship, Seven Seas Navigator, which recently underwent a multi-million dollar refurbishment and features a stunning and sophisticated new look.
Setting sail on 8 January 2018, the 38,528-nautical-mile sojourn will begin and end in Los Angeles, taking a southerly route to explore the world’s most exquisite destinations, visiting five continents – including Australia – 28 countries and 64 ports of call encompassing 28 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The 490-guests onboard will be able to indulge in Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ most inclusive luxury experience, which includes a vast array of complimentary and unlimited shore excursions – allowing guests to become immersed in each destination visited.
APT Announces Leading Australian Travel Agent as AmaStella Godmother
Award winning luxury river cruise line APT has officially announced Carole Smethurst, owner of Bicton Travel in Perth, as Godmother of its latest European river cruise ship, the new MS AmaStella.
Smethurst will christen the vessel at a special blessing ceremony, which will take place in Vilshofen, Germany on 14 June 2016.
Carole Smethurst is one of Australia’s leading travel agents and a respected figure in the country’s travel industry. As well as the owner of Bicton Travel, Carole is recognised as one of the foremost cruise experts in Australia. Having cruised the world extensively, three years ago she established cruisefinder.com.au as an online cruise agency to cater for the ever growing internet market. She has also added Bicton Travel Premium to the stable, catering for the luxury traveller.
Commenting on her forthcoming role as AmaStella’s Godmother, Carole said, “for cruise enthusiasts such as myself, being invited to be a ship’s Godmother is the ultimate honour. I am looking forward to the blessing, and most importantly, to setting sail aboard this fine luxury vessel. Clients will definitely be hearing all about this unforgettable experience.”
Joining Carole at the christening ceremony will be APT Group company director Robert McGeary and managing director Chris Hall.
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