EOS Airlines Calls It Quits

Sad news today from EOS Airlines. Due to the high cost of fuel and the credit crunch, the airline has filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy and will cease operations on Sunday, April 27, 2008.

Crystal Cruises had partnered with EOS to provide low-cost business air upgrades for travel to Europe in 2008. Passengers holding EOS tickets booked via Crystal should contact their travel agent or the cruise line as soon as possible.

For independent travelers who have confirmed tickets on a future EOS flight, the airline suggests that you contact your credit card for a refund. Other airlines may offer seats on their flights, but they are not obligated to do so. Silverjet posted on its website this morning that it will try to assist displaced EOS customers. Here's the note posted:

Rebooking Information from Silverjet
Following the cessation of EOS operations, Silverjet is offering EOS customers the opportunity to re-book on available Silverjet services Book with Silverjet before midnight May 10, 2008 (BST) and we will honour the price you paid to EOS, subject to seat availability and a minimum price paid*. To re-book, please call Silverjet on UK: 0844 855 0111 or USA: 877 359 7458 (FLYSILVERJET), 24 hours a day.

Electronic proof of the ticket price paid to EOS and your original EOS e-confirmation number will be required.

* Please note, if you have paid less than £600 / $1,200 plus taxes one-way or £1,200 / $2,400 plus taxes round trip, we will be unable to honour this offer.

***

It's been a tough year for the airlines with ATA and Aloha Airlines going out of business. EOS joins their ranks and there will most likely be a few other airlines that must cease operations or merge with another carrier. Things aren't looking all that bright for Alitalia right now, and many are guessing that airline may be the next to close its doors.

More News on Crystal's Wine & Food Festival

Crystal Cruises has been busy lining up an all-star cast for its October Wine & Food cruises in the Mediterranean and New England. Here's what you can look forward to...

* Aboard the Serenity's 12-day voyage from Rome to Barcelona departing October 18, 2008: Michelle Bernstein, former James Beard nominee and well-known chef/owner of Michy's in Miami, and wine expert/author Lettie Teague of Food & Wine magazine.

* Aboard the Symphony's 10-day cruise beginning on October 19 from Montreal to New York: Henri Brosi, executive chef of London's Dorchester Hotel, will showcase the techniques that have earned him worldwide critical acclaim. Joining him is wine "wizard" Keith Goldston, one of the world's youngest Master Sommeliers.

Crystal's Wine & Food Festivals include onboard lectures, cooking demonstrations, tastings, and dinners of signature dishes.

Throughout each voyage, carefully crafted optional shore excursions offer guests authentic regional culinary experiences, such as cooking lessons at a Michelin star restaurant in Sorrento, wine tasting in the Sicilian countryside, a lobster lunch on the coast of Nova Scotia, and a three-course gourmet meal and blind wine tasting in Saint John's.

Crystal Serenity's 12-day cruise from Rome to Barcelona October 18, 2008, features calls in Naples and Sicily/Catania, Italy; Gibraltar, United Kingdom; and Malaga, Cartagena, Valencia and Palma de Mallorca, Spain; concluding with a shipboard overnight call in Barcelona. Fares begin at $4,445, per person, double occupancy.

Crystal Symphony's 10-day cruise from Montreal to New York, October 19, 2008, features calls in Quebec City, Quebec; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John's, New Brunswick; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; and Newport, Rhode Island. Fares begin at $3,435, per person, double occupancy.

Photo courtesy of Crystal Cruises.

Silversea Alaska Sailing to Focus on Food & Wine

Silversea's Silver Shadow is sailing Alaskan waters this summer and in addition to the breathtaking scenery and adventurous shore excursions, the line will also spotlight food and wine on its June 21, 2008 voyage. In fact, Silversea has asked John Shafer of Shafer Vineyards in Napa Valley, California, to host a special "Wine & Food" enrichment program.

John will lead various wine tastings throughout the voyage as well as a private tour and tasting at the end of the journey at Shafer's Hillside Select.

Randy Aprill, Executive Chef at the elite Silicon Valley Capital Club in San Jose will also be onboard. Aprill was formerly a chef in the White House, where he cooked in the president’s kitchen for State dinners and dignitaries. John and Randy will offer wine tastings, group discussions, culinary demonstrations, and an exclusive winemaker dinner featuring Shafer wines and Aprill’s signature cuisine.

Shafer wines have earned much critical praise since the vintner’s first cabernet was produced in 1978. Shafer was one of a few wineries selected worldwide to be featured in Robert M. Parker, Jr.’s book, The World’s Greatest Wine Estates, where he writes that Shafer is “one of the world’s greatest wineries.” Wine & Spirits magazine also places Shafer “among the world’s Top 25 Great Vineyards.”

Cruises will also get to experience Silver Shadow’s new state-of-the art culinary theater equipped with professional-caliber appliances and cookware custom designed by Viking Range.

In addition, expert Alaska guides will be on board to add personal insights and offer slide lectures of the history, nature, and peoples of the region as the ship navigates Alaska’s pristine glacial passages.

The 10-day voyage aboard the intimate, all-inclusive Silver Shadow sails from Vancouver to under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco with calls in Sitka, Haines, Juneau, and Ketchikan, Alaska plus Prince Rupert, British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Silversea.

Perfect Hawaiian Honeymoons Aboard Safari Explorer

If you’re planning a honeymoon—or any romantic cruise getaway—check out American Safari Cruises’ new Hawaii Honeymoon Package. It’s offered on the line’s soon-to-debut 145-foot, 36-guest yacht Safari Explorer. This is the first luxury ship to offer inter-island Hawaiian cruises. The ship and her all-American crew will visit Molokai, Lanai, Lahaina on Maui, the Big Island, and several snorkel/dive sites. (Click here to read another blog entry about the new itineraries.)

The romance package includes one of two top-deck balcony suites that feature a living room with a large, flat-screen TV, master bedroom with king-size bed and Tempur-pedic mattress, refrigerator stocked with the couple’s favorite beverages, and bathroom with heated tile floors and Jacuzzi tub. The couple will also receive a private helicopter tour of Volcanoes National Park (other guests will fly with up to five others), and be feted at a honeymoon celebration one night at dinner.

The couple will be welcomed with Dom Perignon champagne on ice; a platter of chocolate-covered strawberries, fine cheeses, and grapes; a rose-petal strewn bed; and two personalized keepsake pillows. They will have first choice of complimentary massage appointments, and their preferred wines will be stocked in the yacht’s wine library.

The Honeymoon Package begins at $7,395 per person and includes from-yacht activities, shore excursions, private transfers, and complimentary premium spirits and fine wines.

For more information, call your travel agent or contact American Safari Cruises at (888) 862-8881.

Photo courtesy of American Safari Cruises

Silver Cloud & Wind to Undergo Serious Refurb

Miami Beach played host to the annual Seatrade Cruising Shipping Convention this past week and several luxury lines, including Silversea Cruises, made statements to the press. Company execs unveiled plans for a massive dry-dock refurbishment of both the Silver Cloud and Silver Wind. The goal is to bring the interiors stylistically in line with the new 540-passenger Silver Spirit, scheduled for delivery in December 2009. The Silver Wind will spend November 2008 in dry dock, while the Silver Cloud will be retrofitted in May 2009.

Suites are in for many upgrades, including new bathrooms, carpets, flat-screen TVs, and more. According to Silversea, “Verandas will also be spruced up.” It will be interesting to learn what that exactly means.

Additional enhancements will include a new ocean-view spa and fitness center on Deck 9, a new Observation Lounge, eight new large suites on Decks 7 and 8, reduction of Vista Suites on Deck 4, and a new guest elevator connecting Decks 8 and 9.

“These will be the most comprehensive construction and refurbishment initiatives ever undertaken for Silver Cloud and Silver Wind,” said Amerigo Perasso, Silversea’s president and CEO. “The projects underscore our firm commitment to keep Silversea at the forefront of ultra-luxury cruising.”

This is a smart move since many of Silversea’s competitors are expecting delivery of new ships during the next few years. It’s wonderful to see Silversea reacting to the feedback of their passengers and customizing ships to meet the needs of all luxury cruise enthusiasts.

Don’t forget that Silversea also recently added the expedition ship Prince Albert II to its fold, so the company’s itineraries now encompass all seven continents.

Photo courtesy of Silversea.

Introducing Silversea’s Silver Spirt

Officials at Silversea Cruises took some time out at this week’s Seatrade Cruising Shipping Convention in Miami Beach to discuss its newly named all-suite ship: the Silver Spirit. Currently under construction at Fincantieri's Ancona shipyard, the 540-guest vessel is scheduled to join the fleet in late 2009. Renowned Italian architect Giacomo Mortola is overseeing the design of the 36,000-ton, ultra-luxury vessel. The company also revealed a number of architectural details.

“Silver Spirit’s design will mirror the distinctive silhouette of our existing ships and will offer the same standards of luxury that our guests have come to expect,” said Manfredi Lefebvre, Silversea’s chairman. “But there will also be several significant enhancements, including a new supper club, an Asian-themed restaurant, and an expanded spa facility that will rival the best spas on land.”

The new ship will also feature those dining venues that have become favorites of Silversea guests, such as The Restaurant, the elegant main dining room; The Wine Restaurant, where the menu celebrates the most rarefied vintages; and the Pool Grille, offering casual poolside dining.

The Silver Spirit is being built with an eye toward what current passengers want. There are 270 ocean-view suites with an increased number of the most popular suite categories. There will be 26 Silver Suites, 222 Veranda Suites, six Grand Suites, and two Owner’s Suites. All but 12 suites will have verandas.

The new Spa at Silversea, which premiered aboard Silver Shadow’s World Cruise last year, will be rolled out aboard the new vessel in grand style with dramatically more space available to incorporate new design elements.

And Silver Spirit will feature many of the same public lounges found on the line’s existing ships, including an Observation Lounge, Vista Lounge (similar to Panorama Lounge on current fleet), Show Lounge, Humidor, and Pool Bar, plus a new Lobby Bar styled along the lines of a European hotel, featuring Italian coffees complemented by champagne, wine and spirits—all served at no charge.

Silversea’s forthcoming Silver Spirit will be one to watch. Mark your calendars for a December 2009 debut!

Illustration courtesy of Silversea.

New Music CD from SeaDream

I guess what they say is true: Everyone wants to be in the music business. SeaDream Yacht Club recently developed its own 12-track music CD, titled Dream, to capture the spirit of a SeaDream voyage.

Producers put together an eclectic mix of pop, rock, jazz, soul, R&B, and even some Bossa Nova. Order the CD now from SeaDream’s Boutique and you’ll hear Norah Jones, Bebel Gilberto, Marc Broussard, Samantha James, Erin Bode, James Hunter, and terrific musicians.

The Dream CD was spearheaded by Adrienne d’Annunzio, manager of the SeaDream Club and Charity Programs and is available for sale onboard SeaDream I and II and online via SeaDream’s Boutique at www.Seadream.com. Price is $16.98, not including shipping.

Photo courtesy of SeaDream.

American Safari's In-Depth Sea of Cortes Exploration

One criticism often heard about cruising is that travelers never really get to know the destinations they visit. They go from port to port to tour bus to tour bus and never interact with anyone from the places they visit. American Safari Cruises proves that it doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, they make sure their guests meet and learn from locals in the areas in which their yachts sail.

Take the company’s Sea of Cortés itinerary in Mexico aboard the 22-guest, 120-foot yacht Safari Quest. Guests traveling the Biosphere Reserve and its protected islands interact with island families, mainland ranchers, fishermen and small-town residents. In fact, the yacht is the only vessel to bring guests to the small island of Isla Coyote, the single permanent settlement in the biosphere.

Here’s how American Safari Cruises describes the meet-and-greet opportunities:

“Inhabited by several fishing families for more than 100 years, the island has no water; residents must fetch water in La Paz, transporting it in multi-gallon plastic containers in small, open fishing boats—a four-hour ride each way.

But when the Safari Quest is in the Sea of Cortés November through March, all that changes: The yacht fills the containers right there, sharing up to 2,000 gallons of fresh water from its desalinization plant. In return, yacht guests are invited to explore the tiny village, meet the handful of residents, watch the fishermen clean and preserve their catch, and see the hundreds of pelicans that call Isla Coyote home.

On this same itinerary, guests meet Alejo, an inland rancher who travels on horseback for half a day to meet the yacht in a secluded bay. He brings his family—grown children, grandchildren, and the women who fashion jewelry from native stones, shells, and silver. He also brings a string of mules, saddled and ready to take guests on a trail ride through the arroyos to a sugar-sand beach.

Safari Quest guests also get close to gray whales and meet the locals in Bahia Magdalena when they ride with fishermen in small boats called “pangas.” In addition, they meet residents of colonial Loreto, a small town on the verge of being discovered, and learn the art of tortilla making firsthand from a renowned restaurateur.”

The Safari Quest is in the Sea of Cortés until April 8, and will then return for November 13, 2008 through April 7, 2009.

For more information, call your travel agent or contact American Safari Cruises at (888) 862-8881.

Photo courtesy of American Safari Cruises

A New Luxury Option for Hawaii: American Safari Cruises

If you follow cruise news, you’ve probably heard that Norwegian Cruise Line—the only line currently offering inter-island Hawaiian Island itineraries—is repositioning two of its three ships that had been serving this area. NCL America had been plagued from the beginning with negative reviews due to poor service and despite making a big push in this area, they just couldn’t hit upon the right formula to make the itinerary profitable for three large ships.

NCL’s exit, however, makes room for a ship that’s much better suited for visits to the magical islands of Hawaii: American Safari Cruises’ 36-guest Safari Explorer. The yacht will begin sailing in December 2008.

The American-flagged American Safari Cruises will highlight up-close and personal encounters with nature as well as a focus on Hawaiian culture. "We may be seeing a major shift in Hawaii cruising," says Tim Jacox, American Safari Cruises vice president of sales and marketing. "While the large-ship inventory in Hawaii is shrinking, we're able to meet a long-standing demand for an intimate, up-close inter-island experience."

The new 145-foot Safari Explorer, now undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation in Seattle, will go where big ships can't—secluded coves and bays, quaint harbors, and tiny villages. The yacht travels only during the day, and in the waters less traveled will visit Molokai, Lanai, Lahaina on Maui, the Big Island, and several snorkel/dive sites. Guests will also have an included Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour and explore beautiful backcountry waterfalls and exotic terrain on foot.

American Safari Cruises inaugural Hawaii cruise season is December 19, 2008 to May 9, 2009; the Safari Explorer will return in November 2009 to begin its second season. The company operates four luxury yachts that carry 12 to 36 guests; other destinations are Alaska, Mexico's Sea of Cortés, the Pacific Northwest, and the Columbia and Snake rivers.

For more information, call your travel agent or contact American Safari Cruises at (888) 862-8881.

Photo courtesy of American Safari Cruises

Seabourn 2-for-1 Biz Class + 40% Off Cruise Fare

This deal from Seabourn—offering 2-for-1 business class airfare and a 40% discount on select European cruises—definitely made me consider adding a Seabourn voyage to my 2008 vacation plans.

Ten European cruises—ranging from nine to 15 days—aboard the Pride, Spirit, and Legend are part of this deal. According to Seabourn, the 2-for-1 biz airfare deal is a $5,800 value. The fact that you can combine it with the 40% off cruise fare deal means some potentially big savings.

The airfares are available roundtrip from 38 North American gateways to voyages embarking between March and July, 2008 in Lisbon, Venice, London, Copenhagen, Rome, Nice, and Barcelona and exploring itineraries in the Adriatic, the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, Western Europe, and Norwegian fjords.

According to Seabourn president and CEO Pamela Conover, "A Seabourn cruise already offers the best value in luxury travel to Europe this year. The comfort and convenience of business class travel is something that our guests use and value," she continued, "So this offer is consistent with the style they have come to associate with Seabourn."

For more information, talk with your travel agent or visit Seabourn's website.

Follow Queen Victoria's World Cruise

I don't often write about Cunard, but there's an excellent blog you should bookmark if you're interested in this line: The Bon Vivant Traveler. Two young New Yorkers are enjoying a world cruise honeymoon aboard the Queen Victoria and they're blogging about their adventures.

Their 105-day journey, which begain on January 13, will take them from New York to the Caribbean before transitting the Panama Canal to Costa Rica and then on to Mexico. A quick stop in Los Angeles and then its across the Pacific to Hawaii, French Polynesia, Australia, and New Zealand. By early March, they'll visit Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand, and India. On March 31, they'll begin calling upon ports in the Middle East, including Dubai (UAE), Oman, and Egypt before island hopping across Greece on their way to Italy, Spain, and Portugal. The world cruise comes to an end in Southampton, England. However, these intrepid bloggers will transfer from the Queen Victoria to the Queen Mary 2 to make the transatlantic trip back home to Manhattan.

Happy cruising, guys!

Photo of Queen Victoria calling on Fort Lauderdale is courtesy of Cunard.

10 Years of Regent's Paul Gauguin in the South Pacific

Regent has a lot to be happy about these days, including their recent celebration in the South Pacific to commemorate Paul Gauguin's 10 years sailing these islands.

Fireworks lit up the sky above Papeete Harbor in Tahiti and fireboats streamed water skyward as French Polynesian Tourism Minister Marc Collins presented Mark Conroy, president of Regent, with a commemorative plaque honoring the ship’s 10th anniversary. Collins thanked Conroy for Regent’s decade of fidelity in deploying the popular vessel year-round in Tahiti. The ceremony was highlighted by traditional music and dancing.

“From her very first cruise, Paul Gauguin has provided our guests with a unique experience featuring an authentic Polynesian flavor,” said Conroy. “We could not have achieved this success without the spirit of welcome and cooperation we continue to receive from the Tahitian government and people. Regent is proud to operate this magnificent ship in this beautiful destination, and to introduce Tahiti’s charms to discerning travelers from around the world.”

Paul Gauguin first arrived in French Polynesia’s Society Islands in January 1998, having sailed from its shipyard in St. Nazaire, France, via the United States mainland and the Hawaiian Islands. Arriving amidst much fanfare, Paul Gauguin ushered in a new era of cruising in Tahiti, introducing outstanding onboard luxury and gracious, friendly service combined with generous and insightful exploration into Tahiti’s cultures and unrivaled natural beauty.

Paul Gauguin has completed more than 400 South Pacific cruises, carrying more than 120,000 guests and contributing tens of millions of tourism dollars to Tahiti’s economy. Since its construction, the ship has undergone four refurbishments at a cost of more than $15 million.

Paul Gauguin offers year-around, seven-night cruises departing roundtrip from Papeete to Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora, and Moorea. The ship’s schedule also features 11-night voyages that include Rangiroa and Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Islands; 10-night cruises that include Huahine; and 14-night journeys that include Fatu Hiva and Ua Huka in the Marquesas and the remote Cook Islands. Seven-day rates start at $2,195 per person.

Photo of Bora Bora is courtesy of Regent Seven Seas.

New Pre/Post Land Options for American Safari Alaska Cruises

If you’ve booked your own pre- or post-cruise arrangements in Alaska, you know it’s not always so easy to find a high-end experience that matches your onboard cruise expectations. American Safari Cruises has taken steps to create land packages that will retain the same level of service their guests enjoy onboard one of their yachts sailing Alaskan waters.

To that end, the line is now offering a five-day tour featuring two remote fly-in wilderness lodges: Winterlake Lodge and Redoubt Bay Lodge. Both lodges offer complimentary wine service and gourmet dining. The itinerary includes suite accommodations at the Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage; two full days at Winterlake for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, world-class hiking on the Iditarod Trail, complimentary massage; and a full day at Redoubt Bay for a pontoon-boat excursion to a creek where bears feed. Cost begins at $3,900 per person double occupancy.

A four-day, three-night tour direct to Redoubt Bay for extended bear viewing also includes time for hiking, kayaking, sport fishing, and optional flightseeing, plus a Hotel Captain Cook suite overnight in Anchorage. Cost begins at $2,030 per person double occupancy. American Safari Cruises also can tailor a land tour to include travel on the Alaska Railroad GoldStar dome train, an overnight deep inside Denali National Park with wildlife viewing, and a stay in Fairbanks.

American Safari Cruises operates four yachts in Alaska between April 30 and September 13 on five itineraries, including some multiple-day visits to Glacier Bay National Park.

For more information, call your travel agent or contact American Safari Cruises at (888) 862-8881.

Photo courtesy of American Safari Cruises

Crystal Tightens Rules for Smokers

Crystal Cruises announced today that it will tighten smoking restrictions aboard all its ships. Smokers will not be happy about this news; non-smokers will be thrilled.

Beginning in May 2008, Crystal Cruises is prohibiting smoking on verandahs of all staterooms and suites aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.

Most areas of Crystal ships have been non-smoking for several years, including restaurants and the main entertainment lounges. Non-smoking areas dominate most bars and lounges, although there are some tables that permit smoking. Cigarette smoking is permitted in private accommodations, although pipe-smoking and cigars are only permitted in the Connoisseur Club and most open decks.

According to Crystal Cruises' president Gregg Michel, "The majority of our guests are non-smoking, and travelers are used to more non-smoking environments today. We respect that smoking is a personal lifestyle decision but there is growing discomfort from non-smokers about verandah smoke negatively impacting the enjoyment of their personal outdoor living space."

As with the current policy, guests who do not observe the non-smoking policy will first be asked to comply. Failure to do so can result in a guest being asked to leave the ship at his/her own expense.

The new smoking policy takes effect with the May 7, 2008 London-to-Rome cruise on Crystal Serenity and the May 25, 2008 Athens-to-London cruise on Crystal Symphony.

Wind Star Upgrades Completed

Over the past year or so, Windstar Cruises has spent several million dollars upgrading each of its ships with what it calls "Degrees of Difference" enhancements. This cruise line is one of my favorites and the enhancements to the Wind Surf blew me away when I sailed with Windstar last March.

Now, it's the Wind Star's turn to shine. The 148-guest, four-masted msy Wind Star is the last ship to receive this special treatment. Upgrades include remodeled bathrooms in all staterooms, an expanded beauty salon, and a refurbished lounge.

In your stateroom, you'll immediately recognize the changes to the bathroom that now includes new fixtures, glass shelving, new cabinets, granite countertops, porcelain sinks, and a magnifying mirror. The teak floors were kept and refinished. Full length mirrors and slippers are also a new addition to the staterooms.

In the Lounge, the bar was relocated to a central and visible location near the back of the room and refreshed with reupholstered furniture, new carpet, ceiling, lighting, and wall coverings.

The Salon moved from deck one to deck three by the Lounge providing a more serene spa experience with space for relaxation. Expanding into the area vacated by the bar, salon space doubles with a new waiting area, two separate massage rooms, an area for facials and hair/nail treatments, and pedicure chair. The number of massage appointments available for guests has doubled and new spa treatments have been added including La Therapie Hydralift Facial, Elemis Aroma Spa Seaweed Massage, and Ionithermie Cellulite Reduction Program. The expanded spa menu turns the former salon into a complete spa facility.

Other additions in guest areas include new tables and chairs in the Veranda, a new couch and ceiling in the Lobby and upgrades to public bathrooms. In the Pool Bar, a new bottle display area, new lighting, and wall and ceiling coverings update the look. Upgrades were also completed for the technical operations of the ship.

The Wind Star will sail roundtrip from Costa Rica January through March 2008 with a limited amount of Panama Canal cruises in the spring and winter, returning to the Greek Isles from May to October and offering a few Mediterranean itineraries in late spring and late fall.

The 312-guest Wind Surf completed Degrees of Difference upgrades in December 2006 and the 148-guest msy Wind Spirit completed upgrades in April 2007.

Regent Dumps Gold Points as of 3/31/08

If you're a Regent Seven Seas cruiser with a Gold Points Reward account, you need to be aware of important program changes. As of January 2, 2008, Gold Points Reward Network announced it is changing to a redemption-only program. The last day to earn Gold Points at any network partner or by shopping goldpoints.com is March 31, 2008.

Also effective January 2, 2008, Regent Seven Seas Cruises will no longer be issuing Gold Points for any new bookings, or adding Gold Points to any existing bookings. Gold Points do not expire. However, redemption of Gold Points with Regent will end on March 31, 2008 and you will only be able to redeem your Gold Points at www.goldpoints.com or www.points.com starting April 1, 2008.

Regent does have a process in place to redeem your existing Gold Points for future cruise credits. Here are the details from Regent's website:

GOLD POINTS REWARD NETWORK

Changes in Gold Points Reward Network effective Janaury 2, 2008

GOLD POINTS REWARD NETWORK CHANGE
On January 2, 2008, Gold Points Reward Network announced it is changing to a redemption-only program. The last day to earn Gold Points at any network partner or by shopping goldpoints.com is March 31, 2008. Also effective January 2, 2008, Regent Seven Seas Cruises will no longer be issuing Gold Points for any new bookings, or adding Gold Points to any existing bookings.

REDEMPTION OF GOLD POINTS ACCUMULATED PRIOR TO JANUARY 2, 2008
Gold Points do not expire. However, redemption of Gold Points with RSSC will end on March 31, 2008 and you will only be able to redeem your Gold Points at www.goldpoints.com or www.points.com starting April 1, 2008. In order to assist you in using your Gold Points, RSSC has changed its redemption process.

Until March 31, 2008, RSSC is offering a one-time opportunity to acquire Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) with your Gold Points, even if you do not have a cruise booked with us yet. Only one FCC can be purchased per Gold Points Reward Network account, and the FCC can be redeemed with RSSC on bookings made up to one year after issuance. Simply fill out this form and e-mail it to RSSCRESV@regentexperience.com or fax it to (402) 501-5599. Please allow up to 10 days for processing.

The chart below details how much FCC can be acquired with your Gold Points:

Points needed for Future Cruise Credits
50,000 = $200 FCC
100,000 = $400 FCC
200,000 = $600 FCC
300,000 = $800 FCC
400,000 = $1,000 FCC

$200 will be added to the FCC for each subsequent 100,000 Gold Points over 400,000.

2008 AND 2009 BOOKINGS PRIOR TO JANUARY 2, 2008
In addition, 2008 and 2009 sailings booked prior to January 2, 2008 and associated with a Gold Points member number will be issued a FCC per the schedule below once the cruise is completed. These FCCs are equal to or better than what you would have received through the Gold Points Rewards Network. You will have one year from issuance to book a cruise with this FCC as opposed to using Gold Points by March 31, 2008. (If a current eligible booking is cancelled or rebooked to a different sailing, it will no longer be eligible for this FCC.)

Points That Would Have Been Earned (per person)
Up to 25,000 = $100 FCC
25,001 - 50,000 = $200 FCC
50,001 - 75,000 = $300 FCC
75,001 - 100,000 = $400 FCC
100,001 - 150,000 = $500 FCC
150,001 - 200,000 = $600 FCC

$100 will be added to the FCC for each subsequent 50,000 Gold Points.

If you need assistance with your Gold Points account, including your balance, please visit www.goldpoints.com.

2-for-1 Alaska from Regent Seven Seas

On December 27, I wrote about the upcoming Alaska cruise season. Today, Regent Seven Seas announced a terrific 2-for-1 deal for three of their fantastic Alaskan itineraries on the Mariner.

The embarkation dates you'll need to mark on your calendar are May 27, June 11, and June 25.

If interested, you'll need to book your suite no later than January 12, 2008. Talk with your travel agent or call Regent Seven Seas Cruises at (877) 505-5370. Reference referral source C4CEA068M.

MAXjet Files Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

On Christmas Eve, MAXjet—the all business class airline—filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy and halted all flights. Here's the announcement directly from MAXjet president William Stockbridge.

Dear Friends of MAXjet:

It is with deep regret that I must inform you that MAXjet filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy on 24 December 2007. With today’s fuel prices and the resulting impact on the credit climate for airlines, we are forced to take this drastic measure. Our top priority is to assist our customers, particularly those who already have begun their travel with us, in securing alternative flight accommodations.

MAXjet has contracted with Eos Airlines for seats on Eos’ scheduled all-Premium service to accommodate passengers awaiting a return flight between New York and London. Passengers needing return travel between London, Los Angeles and Las Vegas will be contacted regarding their flight re-accommodations. Any customers who choose to make flight accommodations directly should seek a refund from their point of purchase (credit card or travel agency) for the unused leg of their journey.

We have also secured hotel rooms in London, New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles through early January 2008 which we will provide to affected passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted.

On behalf of the entire MAXjet family, we extend our apologies to you for the inconvenience. We are extremely saddened to discontinue a service that we so passionately believe in, and we thank our loyal flyers who helped build MAXjet since our start in 2005.


Sincerely,

William D. Stockbridge
President and CEO

For MAXjet customers who have started travel...
MAXjet is contacting customers with their new travel itineraries in priority order based on date of departure. Please contact MAXjet Customer Care at 1-866-837-9880 or intransit@maxjet.com

Any customers who choose to make flight accommodations directly should seek a refund from their point of purchase (credit card or travel agency) for the unused leg of their journey.


For MAXjet customers who have not yet begun their travel, but have booked tickets...
Seek a refund directly from your point of purchase (credit card or travel agency).

For further information, passengers who have not yet begun travel may contact 1-888-435-9629 or info@maxjet.com

2008 Alaskan Cruise Season—Luxury Style

Want to cruise Alaska in 2008? If you wish to do so aboard a luxury vessel, now is the time to snag a deal before the premium suites and discount deals are snatched up. Yes, it's only the beginning of winter and Alaska is the last place you may want to visit right now—you're probably counting down to your winter Caribbean cruise instead—but the allure of glaciers and whale watching is too much to ignore during the summer months. Even early fall can be a fantastic time to visit our northwest neighbors.

There are only two luxury lines heading to this area in 2008: Regent Seven Seas and Silversea. If you want to sail with a high-end line, don't delay in booking. Otherwise, you may need to look toward a premium line instead. Holland America, Celebrity, and Princess are much more entrenched in Alaska than the luxury cruise lines. Small ship vendors Cruise West and American Safari Cruises may also pique your interest.

Here's a look at what Regent and Silversea are offering for the 2008 Alaska cruise season.

Regent Seven Seas
Regent's 700-guest Seven Seas Mariner plies the Alaskan waters between mid May and early September 2008. The seven-day itinerary between Seward, Alaska and Vancouver, B.C. (or vice versa) hits the following ports and/or sights of interest:

• Hubbard Glacier
• Sitka, Alaska
• Tracy Arm
• Juneau, Alaska
• Skagway, Alaska
• Ketchikan, Alaska
  
  
  If you book certain dates, you'll receive free economy air or $500 off the rack rate. Dates include May 27; June 11, 18, and 25; July 2; August 13, 20, and 27; and September 3. Rates start at $3,895 per person.
  

Silversea
Silversea's Alaska season begins on May 31st this year and ends with its Vancouver to Los Angeles itinerary on September 5. Nine-, 10- and 12-day itineraries are offered aboard the more intimate 382-passenger Silver Shadow. Rates start at $4,956 per person.

9-Day Vancouver to Vancouver

• The Inside Passage
• Ketchikan, Alaska
• Juneau, Alaska
• Skagway, Alaska
• Sawyer Glacier
• Wrangell, Alaska

10-Day Vancouver to San Francisco (or vice versa)

• Sitka, Alaska
• Haines, Alaska
• Sawyer Glacier
• Juneau, Alaska
• Ketchikan, Alaska
• Prince Rupert, B.C.

12-Day Los Angeles to Vancouver (or vice versa)*

• San Francisco, CA
• Victoria, B.C.
• Ketchikan, Alaska
• Sitka, Alaska
• Sawyer Glacier
• Skagway, Alaska
• Wrangell, Alaska
• The Inside Passage

*There is also one 12-day roundtrip intinerary out of San Francisco.

When sailing Alaska, I personally prefer booking a balcony cabin. There's something magical about sitting on your private balcony—in a very warm bathrobe, of course—as you keep your eyes peeled for whales and exotic birds and other creatures you rarely see at home. The Silver Suite would be my pick aboard the Silversea Silver Shadow. On Regent's Mariner, the Master Suite can't be beat since you get a very spacious forward balcony—727 square feet—plus a smaller 71-square-foot side balcony. I also like the Horizon Suites at the aft for their very spacious balconies.

Visiting Alaska is an exhilarating experience! So, enjoy your planned winter getaway and then start thinking about your summertime holiday. Alaska may be just the refreshing change you'll need when the lazy dog days of July roll around. Happy cruising! —Andrea M. Rotondo

Photo of Regent Mariner in Alaska courtesy of Regent Seven Seas.

Crystal Partners with Eos for New Air Options

Eos Airlines is no stranger to travelers flying between New York's JFK and London's Stansted airport. The relative newcomer offers 48 comfortable "suites" on a 757 that's usually outfitted for 220 individuals. Your personal cabin is 21 square feet of personal space and when it's time for bed, you'll enjoy a 6' 6" lie-flat bed. The airline proudly touts that its service is more like a private corporate jet than a traditional consumer airline.

Eos offers a wealth of amenities to make your trip comfortable...from convenient airport lounges to gourmet inflight meals and quality onboard entertainment. They've certainly found several ways to take the stress out of a travel day!

Crystal Cruises announced today that it has partnered with Eos for new air upgrade options for its Western and Northern Europe itineraries in 2008. (Other upgrade options include Premium Economy service via British Airways and Scandinavian Airways.)

The Eos upgrade is $1,300 more each way than Crystal's round-trip coach air/sea fare. Round-trip air add-on fares for Premium Economy are just $700 to $1,200 more than Crystal's coach air/sea fares.

Photo courtesy of Eos Airlines.

A Personal Note from Regent's Mark Conroy

Here's a bit more about information about the Apollo acquisition of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The following is the text of an e-mail Regent president Mark S. Conroy sent to the cruise line's loyal fans.

E-mail from Regent to Its Past Passengers

We have some exciting news to share with you about our company. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is being purchased by Apollo Management LP, a New York-based investment group, from Minneapolis-based Carlson.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises will be placed under the ownership of Prestige Cruise Holdings, Inc. (PCH), a corporation controlled by Apollo which will manage certain cruise portfolio assets of Apollo. NCL Corporation will remain a separate holding outside of PCH.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises will remain a wholly independent brand under my guidance as president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and will continue to operate from its Fort Lauderdale, Florida headquarters, and reservations will continue to operate from Omaha, Nebraska. Oceania Cruises will remain in its Miami headquarters, headed by Bob Binder, president of Oceania Cruises. Both Bob and I will report directly to Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings.

In addition to the strong brand recognition and award-winning products of both brands, there is something else we both share - our commitment to our travel partners. The success of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and our new sister brand has been driven by you and the agency community as a whole. Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises are both renowned for their relationship with the agency community and that is something that will only get stronger as we build new ships, chart new destinations and explore new opportunities with our travel partners.

For you, this change of ownership will not have any impact on your relationship with Regent Seven Seas Cruises or your clients' experience on our ships. So the key messages I wish to share with you are:

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises will continue to operate as a stand-alone brand
  
  
• We will continue to deliver the same great experiences that your clients have enjoyed and that have made us successful
  
  
• There are no plans to make changes to our existing offerings or published schedules
  
  
• Our core management team and key personnel on land and at sea will remain intact
  
  
• We will partner with Carlson to continue to grow the Regent brand at sea and on land

In addition to our plans to grow Regent at sea, Regent Hotels & Resorts will continue to operate and grow as part of Carlson Hotels Worldwide, the world's ninth largest hotel company. The Regent brand will continue to offer to our guests the very best in luxury service and travel experiences, including the finest personalized service and warm and friendly hospitality worldwide.

We are excited about the future of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and we will keep working with you to provide the very best luxury cruise experience for your clients. Thank you for your continued support of Regent.

Kindest personal regards,

Mark S. Conroy
President, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

It's Official: Apollo Acquires Regent

This has been brewing for weeks, but it's finally official: Apollo Management has acquired Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Here's the press release that was issued this morning:

Apollo Management L.P. Acquires Regent Seven Seas

Minneapolis-based Carlson and Apollo Management L.P. (Apollo) today announced that Apollo has agreed to acquire Carlson's Regent Seven Seas Cruises operations. The acquisition is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2008, subject to normal conditions for a transaction of this type, including regulatory approval. The cruise operations will continue as a key part of the global Regent brand.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises will be placed under the ownership of Prestige Cruise Holdings, Inc. (PCH), a corporation controlled by Apollo which will manage certain cruise portfolio assets of Apollo. NCL Corporation will remain a separate holding outside of PCH.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises will remain a wholly independent brand under the guidance of Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and will continue to operate from its Fort Lauderdale, Florida headquarters, and Oceania Cruises will remain in its Miami headquarters, headed by Bob Binder, president of Oceania Cruises. Both Binder and Conroy will report directly to Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings.

The transaction is part of a unified strategy undertaken by Apollo and Carlson to expand their respective core cruise and hotel operations, and become the world's preeminent operators of luxury hotels, resorts and cruises. Carlson will retain ownership of the master Regent brand, along with the worldwide operations of Regent Hotels & Resorts.

"Through this proposed investment, Apollo has demonstrated its deep commitment to the Regent brand and the continuing growth of the Regent cruise line fleet," said Carlson Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Marilyn Carlson Nelson. "As owners of the Regent brand, we remain committed to expanding its scope and success both on land and at sea. We are confident the Regent cruise brand will continue to develop along with and lead the industry segment, which has expanded dramatically since 1992, when we launched our first ship. The potential for continued expansion of the luxury Regent hotel brand, and our entire hotel portfolio, is enormous."

Apollo's acquisition of Regent Seven Seas Cruises strengthens its position in the cruise industry with the addition of an award-winning luxury cruise brand to its cruise portfolio. Regent Seven Seas Cruises will continue to focus on the luxury segment of the marketplace by offering a six-star, all-inclusive experience, and Oceania Cruises will continue to lead the Upper Premium segment.

"Everyone at Regent Seven Seas Cruises is delighted with the formation of this new family of companies. With the tremendous financial resources of Apollo available to us, Regent Seven Seas Cruises will continue to strengthen our position as the leading luxury cruise brand. Our valued guests and travel agent partners will experience a seamless transition as we continue to deliver world-class cruise vacation experiences. We look forward to continued success and the use of the new financial resources available to accelerate our future growth," stated Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

"Regent Seven Seas is the largest, most successful luxury cruise brand, and we look forward to the growth opportunities this addition offers consumers, travel agents and the team members at both Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises," stated Steve Martinez, a partner with Apollo.

Six times chosen as the world's top-rated cruise line by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure magazine, Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers voyages to all corners of the globe aboard its fleet of modern, six-star rated, luxury vessels. In addition to the all-suite, all-balcony, 700-guest Seven Seas Voyager and all-suite, all-balcony, 700-guest Seven Seas Mariner, the fleet also includes the 490-guest Seven Seas Navigator, with 90 percent balcony suites, and the 330-guest Paul Gauguin, a ship dedicated to sailing the South Pacific.

"Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers an exceptional product, and its superb shipboard and shoreside teams have built an enviable reputation as the foremost luxury cruise brand. The brand awareness and market presence of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises will offer our discerning travelers and travel agents worldwide the most vibrant and diverse range of cruise experiences, serving the broadest spectrum of spectacular destinations," stated Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings.

Lehman Brothers Inc. served as financial advisor to Prestige Cruise Holdings on the transaction, and Goldman, Sachs & Co. served as financial advisor to Carlson.

Carlson announced today that it has named Bjorn Gullaksen as president, Regent Luxury Group. Gullaksen has most recently served as executive vice president for Carlson Hotels Worldwide Managed Hotels & Resorts in the Americas. He will continue to oversee the managed hotel and resort operations in his new role. A hospitality industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience, he previously has served as the company's executive vice president of Full Service Hotels, including Radisson Hotels & Resorts and Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts.

Under Gullaksen, a brand council, with leadership from the cruise company and Carlson Hotels Worldwide, will oversee the luxury standards of the Regent brand in all of its applications globally.

Jay Witzel, president and CEO of Carlson Hotels Worldwide and CEO of Regent, said Regent Hotels & Resorts will continue to grow globally as a leading luxury brand in the hotel industry. Following the completion of the cruise line transaction, Regent Hotels & Resorts will be operated as part of Carlson Hotels Worldwide, one of the world's top 10 hotel companies. The current global portfolio includes Regent properties in Beijing; Shanghai; Singapore; Taipei; Berlin; Zagreb, Croatia; and Turks and Caicos. The company's North American expansion plans also include The Regent Bal Harbour, Florida, scheduled to open in early 2008 and The Regent Boston at Battery Wharf, also scheduled to open in 2008. Future global developments include properties in Bordeaux, France; Bangkok, Thailand; The Republic of Maldives; Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Papagayo, Costa Rica; and Dubrovnik, Croatia.

ABOUT APOLLO MANAGEMENT L.P.:
Founded in 1990, Apollo is a leading private equity and capital markets investor with more than 17 years of experience investing across the capital structure of leveraged companies. The firm employs over 140 professionals and has offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Singapore, Frankfurt and Paris. Since its inception, Apollo has managed more than $28 billion of capital across a wide variety of industries both domestically and internationally. The firm's most recent private equity fund and its co-investment affiliate have capital commitments of approximately $11.6 billion. Investments in the leisure and hospitality industries have included Harrah's Entertainment (pending), AMC Entertainment, Sirius Satellite Radio, Wyndham International, and Vail Resorts. Apollo is already active in the cruise industry, having invested in the upper premium Oceania Cruises brand earlier this year, and is scheduled to shortly close on a committed investment in NCL Corporation Ltd ("NCL"), parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line and NCL America . Since investing in Oceana, Apollo has supported the ordering of two new ships worth approximately $1 billion.

ABOUT CARLSON:
Carlson is a global leader in the hotel, restaurant, business and leisure travel, and marketing industries.

The Carlson family of brands and services include: Regent Hotels & Resorts(R), Radisson Hotels & Resorts(R), Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Park Inn(R) hotels, Regent Seven Seas Cruises(R), T.G.I. Friday's(R) and Pick Up Stix(R) restaurants, Carlson Wagonlit Travel(R), Cruise Holidays(SM), All Aboard Travel, Cruise Specialists, Fly4Less.com, Cruise Deals.com, Dazzle Travel, Results! Travel(R), Carlson Destination Marketing Services, Carlson Leisure Travel Services, SeaMaster Cruises(R), SinglesCruise.com, Partners In Travel, Luxury Travel Network, Carlson Marketing, Peppers & Rogers Group(R), and Gold Points Reward Network(R).

Based in Minneapolis, Carlson's brands and services employ about 190,000 people in 150 countries and territories. Carlson's 2006 systemwide sales, including franchised operations, totaled $37.1 billion. http://www.carlson.com/.

ABOUT REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES:
Regent Seven Seas Cruises(SM) (RSSC) operates a fleet of medium-sized luxury cruise ships that visit over 300 ports on all seven continents, including Antarctica. RSSC is consistently rated among the world's top three cruise lines by readers of luxury travel magazines. Travel professionals worldwide voted RSSC the "World's Best Luxury Cruise Line" for the third consecutive year as part of the 2006 Travel Weekly Awards and readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine voted RSSC "World's Best Small-Ship Cruise Line" in 2007. For further information, contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises, 1000 Corporate Drive, Suite 500, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33334. For brochures, call toll-free (866) 284-4079; for reservation information call toll-free (800) 285-1835; or visit: http://www.rssc.com/.

ABOUT OCEANIA CRUISES:
Oceania Cruises(R) is the world's only upper-premium cruise line and offers a unique combination of the finest cuisine at sea, luxurious accommodations, exceptional personalized service and extraordinary value. As the leader in destination cruising, Oceania Cruises sails to more than 180 ports in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, South America, and the Caribbean. Featuring three intimate and elegant mid-sized ships, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica, the line will introduce two new mid-size Oceania Class ships to its award-winning fleet in 2010 and 2011. For additional information, to make a reservation, or to order a brochure, please contact your Travel Agent or Oceania Cruises at 800-531-5658. Visit us at http://www.oceaniacruises.com/.

Windstar's 12/8 Wind Spirit Cruise Canceled

Due to a cracked propeller on the Wind Spirit, Windstar Cruises has canceled its December 8 sailing out of St. Thomas. The repair requires dry docking and the ship is expected to be back in service for the December 15 sailing.

Windstar offered passengers a 100% refund, reimbursement of transportation-related expenses, and a 50% onboard credit for a future cruise.

Crystal Serenity Fire; Minor Damage Fixed

On November 17 while docked in Bermuda, a small fire broke out in Crystal Serenity's engine room. The flames were contained within one piece of equipment and were put out quickly. The crew and guests were not at risk during this incident.

Unfortunately, the fire necessitated the shutdown of one of six engines aboard the Serenity. This reduced sailing speed and meant a four-hour delay in returning to Miami for disembarkation. Crystal's staff worked hard to assist all passengers—those that booked Crystal air and those who made their plans independently—with any necessary adjustments to flights and land transportation.

Spare parts and mechanics met the Serenity at Miami where the repairs were made before the ship's turnaround to welcome guests aboard voyage #7328 (Tropical Passage through the Panama Canal).

For more information about Crystal Cruises, visit their website.

Fuel Surcharge Roundup

With oil hitting $100 per barrel last week, it's no wonder the cruise lines are instituting fuel surcharges for future sailings. Here's the roundup...

Crystal Cruises: In 2007, the line instituted a $5.00 per person per day fuel surcharge. 2008 cruises will carry a $7.00 per person per day fee. This applies to all 2008 sailings that are not paid in full by January 1, 2008. If you previously paid a 2008 voyage in full, you'll be assessed last year's lower surcharge.

Cunard: Beginning on February 1, 2008, Cunard will charge a $5 per person per day fuel surcharge, not to exceed $70 per person per cruise. The surcharge only applies to the first two passengers in the cabin; third and fourth passengers per cabin are not charged the fee. The surcharge applies to all existing and future bookings.

Oceania Cruises: This line will levy $7.00 per person per day as a fuel surcharge for all currently published sailings between now and April 2009. Avoid this fee by making final payment prior to December 1, 2007.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: If you pay your cruise invoice by December 1, 2007, you can avoid Regent's newly instituted fuel surcharge of $7.50 per person per day. This charge applies to all 2008 sailings.

SeaDream Yacht Club: Fuel surcharges are included in SeaDream's Port charges and are not broken out separately.

Silversea Cruises: All cruises booked on or after November 14, 2007 will be assessed a $10 per person per day fuel surcharge. Passengers who booked future voyages prior to the November 14 cutoff date will not be charged this fee.

Windstar Cruises: If you're sailing on the Wind Surf, Wind Spirit, or Wind Star between now and March 2009, you'll be assessed an $8.50 per person per day fuel surcharge. You can avoid this charge by paying your invoice in full by December 15, 2007.

Yachts of Seabourn: This line will charge a $5.00 per person per day fuel surcharge, not to exceed $70 per person per voyage for all sailings departing on or after February 1, 2008.

Nov. 17 Cross on SeaDream I Cancelled

Last week while sailing near Tangiers, SeaDream I damaged one of its stabilizers. In order to make the necessary repairs before its scheduled cross from Lisbon to San Juan, the November 17 itinerary was cancelled. While SeaDream Yacht Club originally hoped to simply delay departure until November 21, poor weather conditions prevented SeaDream I from immediately entering dry dock.

Cruise line executives from Miami flew to Lisbon to assist passengers who, while disappointed, were pleased with SeaDream's assistance with hotel arrangements in Lisbon and transportation home or to San Juan where they would have docked on November 28. A charter scheduled for the 28th was also cancelled.

SeaDream representatives were confident that the December 9th sailing would embark from San Juan as scheduled. Here's to hoping that the repairs are made swiftly and SeaDream I makes its way safely from Europe to the Caribbean.

I hope all of the "crossers" were able to enjoy their holiday, even without a SeaDream cruise, and with any luck they'll be yachting on an alternative itinerary soon.

Crystal Calls Upon Cheese Sommeliers

Here's something of note: Crystal Cruises has announced that in addition to its certified Court of Master wine sommeliers, new "cheese sommeliers" will join the crew for all 2008 voyages.

The certification of these culinary professionals is actually pretty serious business. Master Sommelier Robert Bath, one of only 124 people in the world to hold this title, is overseeing the certification of Crystal's wine sommeliers. Bath was the creative force behind the acclaimed wine program at the lauded French Laundry.

Cheese Sommeliers will be certified by Professor Gerhard Ebner of the International Cheese Academy at the Hotel and Tourism School in Bad Gleichenberg, Austria.

Certification for Crystal's cheese and wine sommeliers takes more than 60 hours of schooling and five-and-a-half hours of testing.

From Le Riopelle de l'Isle, a rare triple cream cheese from Isle-aux-Grues (Goose Island) in Québec, to the mildly spicy Saint Albray from the French Pyrenees, the cheese sommeliers will be expanding Crystal's selection of regional and artisanal cheeses, and can offer insights on sampling suggestions; the harmony with wines and spirits; and information on the history, manufacturing, and fine distinctions of each cheese. And don't forget that Crystal ships maintain a 25,000-bottle wine cellar with more than 350 labels.

It will be interesting to see what new additions are made to Crystal's culinary offerings in 2008 and beyond. For more information, visit Crystal Cruises' website.

Photo courtesy of Crystal Cruises.

New Ports of Call for SeaDream's 2009 Caribbean Season

SeaDream Yacht Club has announced its Caribbean itineraries for 2009 (January through April). They've done a great job spicing things up! I was just lamenting to someone the other day that all of my favorite luxury cruise lines are doing the same-old same old in the Caribbean. With SeaDream's new itineraries, there are quite a few that will lure even die-hard Caribbean cruisers who feel as if they've seen every bay and cove there is to discover.

In January 2009, SeaDream I alternates between 5- and 9-day voyages between San Juan and Puerto Rico. Some of the more interesting ports of call include:

Gustavia, St. Barthelemy
Virgin Gorda, BVI
Honeymoon Beach, Water Island
Anegada, BVI
Saba, Netherlands Antilles
Peter Island, BVI
Culebrita, Puerto Rico
Esperanza, Vieques
Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe

During the same time period, SeaDream II is plying the waters around San Juan with 7-day cruises.

In February 2009, SeaDream extends its reach to Dominica, St. Lucia (Rodney Bay and Castries), Montserrat, and Antigua. There's an especially intriguing 4-day Valentine's Day sailing that whisks travelers from San Juan to Culebrita, Puerto Rico; Esperanza, Vieques, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Honeymoon Beach, Water Island; Jost van Dyke, BVI; and back to San Juan.

SeaDream continues to explore St. Lucia in March, with calls on Soufrier Bay and Marigot Bay. The Grenadines are also added to the mix (Tobago Cays, Bequia, and Mayreau).

With temperatures rising in April, SeaDream's yachts focus on Samana, Dominican Republic, the Bahamas (Port Lucaya, Egg Island, and Nassau), Turks & Caicos (Cockburn Town), and Florida (Miami and Key West).

It's nice to see this change-up when it comes to Caribbean cruising. I'll be looking forward to a getaway in 2009! For more information, visit SeaDream's recently redesigned website.

Photo courtesy of SeaDream Yacht Club.

Seabourn Ups the Ante & Orders Third Luxe Vessel

The U.S. economy may be sagging but it hasn't hurt the luxury markets any. In fact, high-end travel companies are aggressively investing in the future. Just look toward The Yachts of Seabourn. We've all heard about the Seabourn Odyssey that will sail the seven seas starting in 2009. The company also has a second ship on orer with Italian shipbuilder T. Mariotti S.p.A.

Now, a year after announcing the two new ship builds, Seabourn surprises us all by ordering a third sister ship for delivery in the summer of 2011. The decision was made after such strong advance bookings for Seabourn Odyssey.

For those who can't wait until 2011, you can still book a voyage during Seabourn Odyssey's maiden season. The yet-to-be-named second ship in the series is scheduled to enter service in the summer of 2010.

All three 32,000-GRT ships will accommodate 450 guests in 225 suites, 90 percent of which will offer private verandas. The design specifications call for hulls 650 feet long, with a beam of 84 feet and a draft of 21 feet. The ships will be powered by diesel-generated electricity and operate with twin screw propellers, with a service speed of 19 knots. They will be equipped with two bow thrusters to enhance maneuverability and two stabilizers. In addition, these "green ships" will employ advanced wastewater treatment technology.

To learn more about Seabourn Odyssey, or any other Seabourn ship, visit the cruise line's website.

Illustration courtesy of The Yachts of Seabourn.

SeaDream Chefs Share Their Recipies in New Cookbook

Here's a fun holiday gift for SeaDream fans and those who like to tackle new recipes: the newly published Dream Cuisine: An Adventure for the Senses cookbook from the chefs aboard SeaDream I and SeaDream II.

Executive Chef d’ Cuisine, Robert van Rijsbergen, spearheaded the creation of the cookbook to include “a subtle combination of classic French culinary techniques, sophisticated international offerings, and a mingling of Asian influences.”

The book presents more than 90 recipes and covers hors d’oeuvres, appetizers, lunch and dinner entrees, desserts, and a unique spa menu. Vegetarian choices are also highlighted.

Some of the dishes you can now prepare at home in the SeaDream method include:

Gratinated Escargot—served with aubergine caviar and mushrooms
Thai-Style Chili Garlic Quail—served with Basmati rice and coriander
Sautéed “Gariguette” Strawberries—with candied black olives and olive oil ice cream
L’Oeuf Poule au Caviar “Surprise”—caviar served in an egg shell
Cream of Pumpkin Soup—garnished with pumpkin seeds, a bit of lobster and whipped cream
Champagne Sorbet—enhanced by a drop or two of Kirschwasser
Honey and Five Spice Roast Saddle of Veal—served with caramelized Belgian endive
Lemon Soufflé

If you're into fine wine, there's even a section devoted to the SeaDream wine cellar at sea, its bar menu featuring unusual beverages, and SeaDream’s noted and playful Champagne & Caviar Splash.

“We have received so many wonderful compliments from our guests about their dining experiences with us that it just made perfect sense to publish this Dream Cuisine cookbook," noted the company's President, CEO, and Co-Owner, Larry Pimentel. "It was a labor of love and I hope it not only reminds our guests of one of the great joys of sailing with us, but also sends them into their home kitchens to try some of these recipes.”

SeaDream Owner Atle Brynestad added, “As a family-owned and operated company, we strive to provide each guest with a memorable yachting holiday experience. We welcome all guests as if we were welcoming them into our own home, which in a way, we are.”

The Dream Cuisine cookbook is available for $30 per copy (plus shipping) through the Boutique section of SeaDream’s website and in the onboard Boutiques on SeaDream I and II.

Photo courtesy of SeaDream.

Unique Black Sea Voyage Aboard SeaDream

I don't usually discuss specific cruise itineraries unless I'm writing a review, but here's a new offering from SeaDream that's a bit out of the ordinary. While there are many, many Western Mediterranean offerings, SeaDream I's voyage #1835 sailing from Istanbul, Turkey on August 23, 2008 will focus on the Black Sea.

Ports of call include:

Nessebar, Bulgaria—A UNESCO World Heritage site, the well-preserved city is known for its medieval architecture including many churches.
Constanta, Romania—Here, in this prominent Black Sea port-of-call, the history of winemaking dates back to the 4th century.
Odessa, Ukraine—Founded in 1783 by Russia’s Catherine the Great, this prosperous, cosmopolitan city is home to Count Leo Tolstoy’s elaborate mansion.
Sevastopol, Ukraine—Where Count Tolstoy began his career, Sevastopol is a popular Medieval-style seaside resort referred to as the “Gem of the Crimean Riviera.”
Yalta, Ukraine—Summer residence of the Russian Czars, Yalta was the site of the 1945 historic World War II meeting of Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin.

Priced from $5,399 per person, based on double occupancy of staterooms, the voyage (as do all SeaDream voyages) includes all meals, complimentary wines with luncheon and dinner, an open bar, and use of “water toys” from the yacht’s stern Marina and gratuities.

If you're interested in doing a back-to-back cruise, you can opt for either a pre or post seven-night Greek Isles sailing. Prices for the combined voyages are from $10,259 per person, double occupancy.

For more information, visit SeaDream's website.

Photo courtesy of SeaDream Yacht Club.

Seabourn Odyssey Website Launched

Have you reserved a cruise during Seabourn Odyssey's inaugural season in 2009? If not, you might want to surf over to http://www.seabournodyssey.com to learn a bit more about this forthcoming 32,000-ton luxury cruise ship.

The site showcases artists' renderings of the ship's exterior, various public rooms, the ship's open-seating restaurant, pool patio, suite accommodations, water sports marina, and more. You can also access documentary-style photos taken at the shipyard in Porto Nogaro, Italy, where the construction of the hull is underway.

If you do wish to sail during Seabourn Odyssey's maiden year, you can find full itineraries and fare information for each voyage at this site. There are 13 categories of ocean-view suites, from a 295-square foot Category A Seabourn Suite to the four, super extravagant Grand Suites incorporating up to 1,182 square feet of indoor space and as many as three private verandas adding another 301 square feet of private space. Depending on voyage and suite category, fares range from $3,387 to $49,247 per person, double occupancy.

In addition, Seabourn Odyssey's inaugural world cruise, set to embark in January of 2010, is outlined in a special section, which displays the complete 108-day itinerary and invites interested travelers to put their names on a waiting list for reservations, which will open on February 1, 2008.

Although considerably larger than her smaller 10,000-ton sister ships, the new vessel will carry just over twice as many guests (450), boasting among the highest space-per-guest ratios (71.1) in the cruise industry and nearly one staff member per guest.

For more information, visit this new website for Seabourn Odyssey.

Illustration courtesy of Seabourn.