You didn't hear this from me...

Shhh, don't tell anyone, but I have advance information that RCCL is planning on opening their Summer, 2009 Europe schedule on March 18. It's not set in stone yet, but that's what they're looking at.

Since I'm heading to the Galapagos, if you're looking for something for the summer of 2009, give me a call Tuesday or Wednesday (that's today or tomorrow) so I can get it set up for cabins to be held for you on the 18th.

NCL Jade to Remain in Europe

NCL Jade, the former Pride of Hawaii, has not only been reflagged to the international fleet of NCL, but is going to become NCL's first year-round ship in Europe.

The European market has just exploded in the past few years. It used to be that conventional wisdom was that Europeans (and Americans) weren't interested in winter cruising in the Mediterranean and the surrounding areas. Costa and MSC have really proven that wrong, and NCL is looking to expand that success with the Jade over the next few years, as she's set to remain there at least through summer, 2010.

As part of this year-round deployment, NCL is introducing three new itineraries all roundtrip from Barcelona -- 12-day Eastern Mediterranean sailings, nine-day Canary Islands and Morocco sailings, and a 14-day Eastern Mediterranean holiday cruise.

While the majority of their winter clients are expected to be Europeans, these cruises will also be offered to the US market, and will be excellent for winter getaways. Remember that winter airfare to Europe is *much* more affordable than during the peak summer seasons. While it may not be as warm as the Caribbean in January, these are still great for winter getaways.

These sailings are now on sale!

Azamara and Oceania Europe 2009 Itineraries Announced

Oceania has opened the books on their 2009 European season! Since their inception as a line, they've become known for their innovative and exciting itineraries, and 2009 will be no exception. Some of the highlights:

• All sailings will be offered with Free Airfare & 2-for-1 Cruise Fares through August 31, 2008.
• From the Black Sea to the Baltic, there are 52 extraordinary voyages to choose from including 10 distinct Western Mediterranean itineraries.
• A new 16-day Venice to Rome voyage highlights the scenic splendor and intriguing history of the Dalmatian Coast.
• Regatta returns to Scandinavia and Russia and marks Oceania Cruises' return to Norway and the British Isles.
• Magnificent maiden ports include: Hellesylt, Norway; Fowey, United Kingdom; Biarritz, France; and Koper, Slovenia.

Following on the heels of sister line Celebrity, and not surprisingly right after competitor Oceania announced their 2009 summer European schedule, Azamara Cruises has announced the opening of their 2009 European season. Sailings will go on sale starting April 2.

Cruises range in length from 7-15 nights, and feature visits to a total of 91 ports in 36 different countries. They will depart from five different home ports through the season: Athens, Greece; Barcelona, Spain; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Rome and Venice, Italy. Overnight stays are be offered in Barcelona; Edinburgh, Scotland; Florence and Ravenna, Italy; Istanbul, Turkey; St. Petersburg, Russia; and Stockholm, Sweden. Late-night (10 p.m. or after) departures will be offered in 10 ports of call.

Azamara ships, being smaller and targeted toward cruisers who are looking for a more intimate experience, both onboard and ashore, are well suited for European cruising. In many locations, they can dock as opposed to tender, or dock far closer to cities such as Paris, allowing passengers more time in the featured cities.

This looks to be a great season for both lines! And of course I have to say - if you're interested, or want to know more about the itineraries or to get in your advance reservation, give me a call or drop me an email!

Celebrity Announces 2009 Europe Itinerary Releases

Celebrity has announced the opening for their 2009 European season! Captain's Club members have an exclusive early booking period from March 13-20, with bookings open to the general public starting on March 20.

5 ships will make up the Celebrity fleet in Europe in 2009, with the brand new Solstice and Equinox being joined by the Century, Constellation and Summit. Big season for them!

With regard to the Equinox, she will be making her debut in Europe on August 8 with a 10-night sailing from Southampton to Rome, to be followed by a series of 13 and 14-night "Ancient Empires" sailings featuring several overnight port calls and Egypt.

Call or email me now to discuss plans for 2009!

Psst - Heads up on NCL Sale

As I mentioned in my newsletter this week (click the Subscribe to Newsletter link on the right if you're not getting this regularly direct from me), Norwegian Cruise Lines is going to have 6 weeks of specials in their Freestyle Resolution Sales Event (formerly known as the Sale of all Sails), with a different destination featured each week. The first two weeks are announced, though not publicly, and you're getting advanced notice!

Starting TODAY, January 1 through January 13, all European sailings are featured and offer onboard credit!

The second featured destination, on sale between January 14-20 will be ALASKA! Offers include onboard credit AND a 10% Suite discount. NCL has the best suites in the business, so if you've wanted to try one and are planning on Alaska next year, this is your chance!

Watch here and the newsletter for announcement of the other offers for later in January and into February. They will be featuring Caribbean, Hawaii, Mex Riv, Alaska, Bermuda, Europe, Canada/New England, and South American sailing one week at a time.

Call or email me for more information!