It's Wave Season! FULL List of Special Offers!

Once again, cruise wave season is upon us, the time when most bookings for the year are made, and the cruise lines roll out attractive specials to entice you. Below is a FULL list of wave season offers by cruise line! Most of these offers are available through February 4, 2010, though other booking dates may be listed in the specific offers:

Azamara Club Cruises: Receive up to $400 in Onboard Credit (per stateroom) when you book an Ocean View stateroom or higher on select Azamara Club departures. Booking Window: January 7 - February 4, 2010

Applicable Sailings:
Azamara Journey, 5/2/10
Azamara Journey, 5/23/10
Azamara Journey, 6/18/10
Azamara Journey, 8/29/10
Azamara Quest, 7/12/10
Azamara Quest, 11/27/10

Carnival: Up to 2 Category Upgrade on select dates.

Celebrity: Up to $100/cabin onboard credit! Celebrity January Sale

Interested in an Alaska or Europe cruisetour? Up to $200/cabin onboard
credit on Alaska cruisetours if booked by January 31, or $300/cabin onboard
credit for Europe cruisetours if booked by March 31!

Crystal: In addition to the absolutely wonderful As You Wish onboard credits up to $2,000/cabin, 2-for-1 fares and free air on select sailings, an additional $200/cabin onboard credit and pre-paid gratuities.

Solo Travelers: Remember that Crystal has some of the
lowest single supplements in the industry, standard starting at only 25%.
Crystal can be a fabulous value for solo travelers.

Cunard: Up to $300/cabin onboard credit for all 2010/2011 sailings (except 2011 World Cruise) on QM2, Queen Victoria and the new Queen Elizabeth.

Solo traveler alert: I have found ZERO single supplement on some fall 2010 Transatlantic sailings on the Queen Mary 2! Most notably the 11/10/10 sailing. Zero. Nada. Zip! Current inside fares are less than $1,000 SINGLE OCCUPANCY! If you've dreamed of a classic Cunard Transatlantic and sail solo... DO NOT WAIT! These sailings are also eligible for the onboard credit and reduced deposit offers!

Disney: Onboard credit for selected 3- and 4-night spring sailings!

Holland America: Reduced deposit and coupon book for all bookings! Don't forget the ongoing View and Verandah sale with lowered fares for oceanview cabins and above, 50% reduced deposit, savings for 3rd and 4th passengers, and even savings on pre- and post-cruise hotels!

In addition, in an EXCLUSIVE for my clients, I have some Limited Edition The Art
of Cruising books from Holland America! This lovely coffee table book
highlights the fine art and antiques aboard Holland America ships. Book
with me on Holland America by February 5, and I'll enter you into a drawing for
these collectible books!

NCL: Year of Freestyle Vacation offers. Up to 6 category upgrades, certificate books, plus rotating offers every two weeks. Currently on sale: Norwegian Epic with upgrades and reduced deposits!

In addition, for solo travelers, Norwegian Epic is offering
150% single supplements for most 2010 and 2011 sailings! This is huge, as
NCL rarely reduces single supplements. A great opportunity to try not only
NCL, but their brand new Epic!

Princess: Through January 21, reduced deposits of $100/person and coupon books on all sailings 7 days or longer.

In addition, for select 2010 European, Caribbean and Alaska sailings, book a balcony at the price of an Oceanview!

Alaska Cruisetours including Denali are on sale! Up to 25% off Alaska
Cruisetour packages! Book by February 28. Prices start as low as
$1,274/person.

Royal Caribbean: Up to $200/cabin savings for select sailings throughout 2010! Book an oceanview cabin or above by February 28 on select sailings and receive up to $200/cabin savings!

River Cruising: River cruise lines continue to offer tremendous savings, with 2-for-1 pricing, free or reduced air and other special offers. These specials are frequently changing, but if you're considering a river cruise for 2010, don't wait. Unlike 2009, many special dates are already extremely limited.

This is the time to book your 2010 (or even 2011) cruise!

If you're thinking of Alaska this year, I can't emphasize enough to BOOK NOW! Because of the reduction in the number of ships and sailings, I expect Alaska cruises and cruisetours to be going up in price throughout the year. Booking now locks in your preferred cabin and pricing.

Remember that several lines will allow me to adjust your fare if they lower prices, EVEN AFTER FINAL PAYMENT! If you're concerned with getting the best fare, and who isn't, ask for information on these policies. I never charge a fee for changes to your booking, unless the cruise line imposes one directly. So you're protected when booking with me!

Call me at 303-690-8937, or toll-free at 888-SAIL-123 (888-724-5123), or email at amber@cruiseresource.com for more information on any sailing, offer, or to book your cruise! You deserve a great vacation in 2010!

Holland America Revises Mariner Society Benefits

Holland America has been known in the past for a rather lackluster past passenger program, the Mariner Society. In an announcement today, they are revising the program, to be complete fleetwide by October 18. In looking at the program, I still don't feel it has the same level of benefits overall as some others out there, and until the top level most of the benefits are aimed at onboard spending discounts and are fairly small, but it's a huge improvement over the current offerings, especially at the three and four star levels. Interestingly for a premium brand, many of the benefits are aimed toward families, with discounts for third and fourth passengers.

The new program levels are as follows:

Star Mariner
Guests who complete their initial cruise with Holland America Line are automatically enrolled in the Mariner Society’s first level, earning cruise days towards future cruises and an exclusive collectible gift. Among the features of Star Mariner status: special offers on select sailings, 50 percent discount for third and fourth guests on select sailings, hosted sailings with Holland America Line Ambassadors, a relaxing Welcome Back Embarkation Brunch on future cruises, a subscription to the Mariner Magazine and a Mariner Champagne Brunch on future cruises.

Two-Star Mariner
After 30 cruise day credits earned, Two-Star guests receive all the amenities of a Star Mariner plus shopping discounts, featuring 15 percent off merchandise purchased from ShopHollandAmerica.com and 10 percent off logo apparel items onboard in the gift shops. Two-Star Mariners also will receive a complimentary ship photo and be sent an exclusive annual cruise planner and special recognition pin.

Three–Star Mariner
With 75 cruise days earned, Three-Star guests automatically are given all Two-Star amenities plus generous new discounts including 10 percent off on select spa treatments; a 25 percent discount on all wine packages, mini-bar purchases, Explorations Café drinks and alternative restaurant surcharges; special advanced notice of new itineraries; and a waiver of air deviation fees.

Four-Star Mariner
At the top of the tiers, with 200 cruise days earned, Four-Star guests enjoy the benefits of all Star levels below and the bonus of free fare for third and fourth guests on select sailings; complimentary wine tasting and laundry/pressing; a 50 percent discount on all wine packages, mini-bar purchases, Explorations Café drinks and alternative restaurant surcharges; a 15 percent discount on logo apparel items onboard in the gift shops; priority tender service and check-in; priority shore excursion pre-booking; and a free subscription to Food and Wine magazine or Travel and Leisure magazine.

Just As Promised...Mega Secret Hot Summer Sales!

I hinted that there were some upcoming specials for 2009 sailings... and here they are! It's our Mega Secret (as in both Mega Large and Mega Top-Secret) Hot Summer Sale! Book between July 9 and August 9 for these offers!

First up is from Royal Caribbean. Book a balcony or above statement for any 2009 sailing on the Enchantment of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas or Adventure of the Seas between July 9 and August 9, 2009, and receive complimentary dinner for two in any of the specialty restaurants!

Better yet - the offer IS combinable with lowest available fare, restricted rates (EZN, Reduced Air, Seniors, Residents, Military, and Police and Fireman), Crown and Anchor, Shareholder Benefits, and Future or NextCruise offers. (Additional restrictions may apply. )

Prefer Celebrity? No problem! I have a "Beat the Heat" sale just for you (and I have to say, since my A/C keeps freezing over, anything to beat the heat right now is sounding really good to me!)

Book a specified 2009 sailing in an Oceanview cabin or above between July 9 and August 9, and receive up to $100 onboard credit! The applicable sailings and corresponding onboard credit amounts can be found here: Celebrity Beat the Heat Sale.

Still not satisfied? Then I have offers from NCL as well. Once again, book a 2009 sailing between July 9 and August 9 on any ship and the savings are yours! Book any 2009 sailing during the sale period and receive a 50% reduced deposit. Want to sail to Bermuda, Canada/New England, Western Caribbean or Mexican Riviera on NCL before the end of 2009? Then the deal is even better for you with onboard credits up to $250/cabin!

Want to take your family on Disney? I've got you covered with onboard credits! Book a 3-night cruise for 11/5/09 through 12/27/09, and receive a $50/cabin onboard credit. 4 night cruises between November 1 and December 23 net you a $50/cabin onboard credit. If you want to sail a 7-night cruise on Disney between 10/31 and 12/19/09, well, that'll get you a $100/cabin onboard credit!

Holland America your style? We've not forgotten you! We have a super coupon book for you for any cabins booked on 2009 sailings between July 9 and August 9!

You're a Princess lover? Their special is applicable for sailings in 2009 AND 2010! Book during our mega secret summer sale July 9-August 9, receive reduced deposits AND an onboard coupon book valued at $325!

Okay, my fingers are tired and my calculator is smoking at these hot summer savings. Any of these sales sound good to you? Then call or email me to book your cruise!

Don't forget about the Crystal's End of Summer 3-day Sale going on through Friday as well.

Alaska Savings on Holland America

A number of factors have contributed to 2009 being the "Perfect Storm" for amazing prices in Alaska: lots of ships, lowered demand, high taxes and a market which has experienced a large number of new cruisers the past few years, making it a "mature" (rather than growing) destination. There have been many exceptional fares on all lines, and it's actually getting quite difficult to find inventory (especially balconies) for late summer sailings.

But cruises out of Vancouver are the exception. Most people sailing round-trip have been specifying Seattle to me, because of the lowered air costs. Because of this, it's very difficult to find inventory on Seattle round-trip sailings right now (though some does exist if you're not picky as to date or type of accommodation). But many sailings from Vancouver have much better availability, and fares to match.

The latest round of promotions comes from Holland America, for their Vancouver Round Trip sailings along with much less often discounted cruise tours! Up to 50% off selected sailings! Insides start at just $599, and balconies at $1,099, and cruisetours from $999 for a 14-night package!

Holland America Up to 50% off Alaska Cruises and Cruise Tours

Holland America, along with Princess, has been sailing in Alaska longer than any other of the large lines, and they do a great job at it. You'll find the average age on HAL ships in Alaska to be lower than it is in the Caribbean (surprise), mostly because of all the multi-generational families which come onboard. They have excellent naturalists, and good port times and itineraries. I highly recommend these sailings. I spent much of my youth growing up in Alaska, so am happy to help you navigate the options to find the right cruise for you.

Next year, there will be significantly fewer ships sailing the Alaska waters. I guarantee you will never see prices like this again with so many options. If you've been thinking about Alaska, STOP THINKING AND BOOK NOW!

Wave Season Has Arrived! Summary of Offers and NEW Oceania Sales Event!

When my phone rang this morning at 5:44AM, I knew that the first day of Wave Season had arrived. So far, the rest of my Monday has followed suit, and I'd say the rush is on!

What is Wave Season? It's the cruise industry term for the first quarter of the year, which traditionally has the highest number of bookings. In fact, more than half the yearly bookings are usually made in these three months, especially in January. Think of a bell curve, with lows in December and April, and there is a "wave" of bookings this first quarter.

The past couple years, Wave Season has been less of a tsunami and more of just a good surfing day, with bookings spread out more throughout the year. Whether that's because of the growing sophistication of cruisers who book according to their personal needs rather than as a result of increased marketing which takes place this time of year, and have learned when is the best time to book, or other factors, I'm not sure. This year, the industry experts are expecting a little quieter season, but judging from today's responses from my clients, I'm not so sure. While my clients are booking on average closer in, they're still booking. The Wave is On!

To remind you all of the various specials the cruise lines are running, here are some of my past "head's up" posts to help you choose your next cruise:

RCCL, Celebrity and Azamara ASAP Promotion

Holland America View and Verandah Sale/Vacation Stimulus Plan

NCL Freestyle Savings Event

Princess is running their "Balcony Bonanza" and Carnival has some upgrade offers, but nothing out of the ordinary for either of them.

Later today, Oceania will be announcing their Historic 5th Anniversary Celebration of Savings with HUGE reductions. They're offering up to $2,000/cabin discounts off their 2-for-1 sailings in Europe with free air for their 2009 season and 25% single supplements, and up to $1,500/cabin discounts off their 2-for-1 2009/2010 Winter Season sailings, with free air, free pre-paid gratuities, $500 onboard credits and 25% single supplements. Yeah, baby! That's what I'm talking about! These Oceania offers become available for sale on January 7, and I'll be first in line to book myself as these are crazy fabulous prices.

There are a lot of reasons to book, especially in the next week. If you're considering any sailings for the next year, give me a call or email now to see how we can maximize your savings and benefits!

Of course, for close-in bookings, don't forget about the weekly Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Happy Hours and Carnival Pack N Go Specials.

Dancing at Sea with Crystal

Premium and Luxury lines, such as Cunard, Holland America, MSC and Crystal, often do Big Band or other dance-oriented sailings during their Transatlantic crossings, and Crystal has just announced a particularly interesting one for one of their spring repositioning cruises in April, 2009.

Crystal Cruises has booked the Glenn Miller Orchestra for concerts and dancing during the May 23 10-day Trans-Atlantic Big Band cruise from Miami to Lisbon. The cruise will include daily live performances and evening dancing, as well musically themed lectures, swing dance lessons, trivia contests, and classic Big Band-themed films. Extra Ambassador Hosts will be available for those who need a dance partner. Led by jazz trombonist Larry O’Brien, the 19-piece band will perform hits made famous in the 1930s and 40s, including “Moonlight Serenade,” “Tuxedo Junction” and “In the Mood.”

The 10-day cruise departs Miami and visits Hamilton, Bermuda and Ponta Delgada, Portugal, before arriving in Lisbon. West Coast guests can precede their trans-Atlantic cruise with a Panama Canal cruise from Los Angeles. The cruise can also be extended in Europe, with a Mediterranean cruise that continues on to Venice. Value Collection cruise fares begin at $3,540 per person, double occupancy. Crystal is also offering bonus savings up to $1,500 per couple, depending on accommodations selected. Other special savings include a Crystal Family Memories package and an additional 5 percent savings for combining two or more voyages.

One of the nice things about a sailing such as this is that it's great for solo ladies who love to dance, but don't have a partner, but equally so for a couple where the husband doesn't particularly like dancing, as the dance hosts are happy to fill in on the dance floor.

Having sailed a Holland America Big Band cruise, I can tell you these are a lot of fun, for dancers and music lovers alike, and active quite late into the night. I was almost literally danced under the table by many close to twice my age. I can't wait until I can book another Big Band cruise!

If this sounds interesting to you, even if not on Crystal or a transatlantic sailing, contact me for information on other options to you as well.

Holland America Vacation Stimulus Plan

Yes, it's another offer designed to prompt you to book your 2009 cruise now! This one is from Holland America, and does have a few nice features.

The components of this plan are:
50% reduced deposit on all cruises sailing on or after May 1, 2009
Up to 25% discount on vacation protection (trip insurance) through Holland America (I don't generally recommend cruise line plans, but this might be worth considering for some people, depending on the cruise and circumstances)
Low fares, including the View and Verandah sale with upgrades from Inside to Oceanview as little as $50/person, or Oceanview to Balcony as low as $100/person
Suspended fuel supplement - Holland America suspended fuel supplements for departures on or after December 17, 2008
Easier free berths for group leaders - time to schedule that group cruise you've been thinking of!

These offers are effective now, so if you've been considering Holland America, they're making it a bit easier for you to book.

Carnival Brands Eliminate Fuel Supplement!

In the best news yet in the ongoing saga of fuel supplements, Carnival Corporation announced today that they will be suspending (eliminating) fuel supplements for all of their North American brands (Carnival, Costa, Cunard, Holland America, Princess and Seabourn) starting with sailings departing on or after December 17, 2008. No complicated formula of watching the West Texas Intermediate Crude for 20 consecutive days beginning 25 days prior to sailing, not even the quarterly formula of the other major brands. It's just gone, vamoosed, outta here!

For those who have already paid their final payment and are sailing on or after December 17, the fuel supplement will be refunded in the form of onboard credit on your cruise (do be sure to check your account to verify it shows up). For those who have not yet paid final payment, the amount will be removed from your booking.

From the Carnival press release:

“As the price of oil has dropped to $46 per barrel, it has now reached a level where we are able to suspend the fuel supplement,” said Bill Harber, director of marketing for Carnival Corporation & plc. Harber cautioned that the fuel supplement could be re-instated if oil prices increase
significantly.

The company reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests at up to $9
per person per day (except Seabourn, which would be up to $15 per person per day) should the price of light sweet crude oil according to the NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange Index) increase above $70 per barrel.

“It is our hope that fuel prices have stabilized and will remain at a more rational level. The complete suspension of the fuel supplement makes the inherent value of a cruise even greater and that is increasingly important in the selection of a vacation in the current economic climate,” Harber added.

The next logical question is if other brands will follow suit Of course, Disney has already suspended their fuel supplements, which may have precipitated this announcement by Carnival. I think it's possible other brands will make similar announcements, though their quarterly assessment of fuel prices is a much more sensible formula than what the Carnival brands had set up, and I'm not sure that the Royal Caribbean International brands, at least, will do so.

At least we have this for now, and it's great news!

Holland America View and Verandah Sale Begins

I'll admit, most of Holland America's "sales" really aren't much of a value (hence why you rarely see me touting the various 1-day and 3-day sales here). But once a year they do have a promotion which is worth promoting: the Holland America View and Verandah Sale!

This sale runs from December 1 through February 28, and offers special pricing for all Oceanview and Verandah cabins, including suites. While many times I do have better fares to offer than even these sale prices, if you're considering Holland America, it is a good starting point to give you an idea of the deals available.

I've scanned the full 10-page listing of specials, and they can be found at 2008-2009 View and Verandah Sale. You know the drill: If you're interested in booking any of these sailings, or if I can research pricing for you for any other options, just email me at amber@cruiseresource.com or phone toll-free at 888-SAIL-123 (888-724-5123).

Holland America 2010 Grand Voyages

In an announcement sure to put the imaginations of those who long to spend life at sea in overdrive, Holland America has announced 4 new "Grand Voyages" (formerly known as World Cruises) for 2010. The offerings include a 114-day Grand World Voyage and three ranging from 51 to 70 days.

The flagship Amsterdam returns to world cruising in 2010 with the 114-day voyage departing Jan. 6 from Fort Lauderdale. The ship will sail an eastbound route, but first moves west through the Panama Canal and down the coast of South America before rounding Cape Horn and exploring Antarctica. Amsterdam will then cross the Atlantic to Africa, sail around the southern tip of the continent to the Indian Ocean and on to Asia and Canada en route to Los Angeles. Guests can disembark in Vancouver on April 25 or Seattle on April 26, making the voyage 109 or 110 days. Segments ranging from 17 to 47 days are available. The itinerary, which takes the ship to 40 ports on six continents, features 12 overnight calls -- the most ever included on a Holland America world cruise. With the overnights, guests will have two full days in Panama City, Panama; Callo (Lima), Peru; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cape Town, South Africa; the Seychelles; Mumbai, India; Singapore; Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing, China; and Kobe and Yokohama, Japan.

The Prinsendam will sail two back-to-back Grand Voyages in 2010. The 793-guest ship first departs Jan. 13 on a 70-day Grand South America and Antarctica cruise round-trip from Fort Lauderdale. During the voyage, Prinsendam will circumnavigate South America and spend seven days exploring the Amazon River. On the other end of the continent, the ship spends three days cruising in Antarctica.

This Grand Voyage aboard Prinsendam also features opportunities to visit Machu Picchu and Iguaçu Falls, passage through the Panama Canal, four equatorial crossings and nine ports in Brazil. Calls include Iquique and Isla Robinson Crusoe, as well as overnight stays in Manaus and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Buenos Aires; Callao (Lima), Peru; and Fuerte Amador, Panama. Then Prinsendam departs Fort Lauderdale on March 24 on a 54-day roundtrip to the Mediterranean and Black Sea. The ship crosses the Atlantic and calls at ports in Morocco, Spain, France, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Russia, Georgia, Greece and Turkey. After sailing westward back across the Atlantic and calling at Bermuda, the cruise ends in either New York -- shortening the voyage to 51 days -- or Fort Lauderdale. The Grand South America and Grand Mediterranean and Black Sea voyages aboard Prinsendam can be combined to form a 124-day journey roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale on Jan. 13, 2010.

In the fall, Amsterdam departs Sept. 24 on a 69-day voyage from Seattle to Asia. After visiting Tokyo, Japan; Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, China; Saigon, Vietnam; Bangkok, Thailand; and Kampong Saom, Cambodia, Amsterdam continues on to Darwin, Australia, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Following calls throughout Australia, the ship heads east through the South Pacific and visits Honolulu before ending at San Diego on Dec. 2, 2010. Overnight stays are scheduled in Sydney, Australia; Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand, and Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, China. Shorter segments are available on all of the Grand Voyages.

Reservations are open for the 2010 Grand Voyages, and early-booking bonus amenities for full-cruise guests include airfare, prepaid hotel service charges, shipboard credit, luggage delivery service and limousine transfers when booking select stateroom categories; amenities vary by cruise and booking date. Cruise fares start at $20,999 per person, double occupancy, for Amsterdam’s 113-day Grand World Voyage departing Jan. 6, 2010, and $19,999 for the 109-day Grand World Voyage, also departing Jan. 6, 2010. Fares begin at $13,899 for Prinsendam’s 70-day Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage departing Jan. 13, 2010 and $9,499 for the Grand Mediterranean and Black Sea Voyage departing March 24, 2010. The and for Amsterdam’s 69-day Grand Asia and Australia Voyage departing Sept. 24, 2010 is priced from $11,499. Fuel supplement charges are additional.

Holland America Extends WLCN Offers, Too!

Based on extremely robust sales (believe me, they're busy - I've been on hold with them for long durations this afternoon), Holland America has decided to extend out their World's Largest Cruise Night promotions through Sunday, October 19! This gives you a couple more days to consider their 12 pages of promotions (Holland America WLCN Savings), and give me a call or email to book.

Carnival Reveals Fuel Supplement Reduction/Removal Plan

Carnival has revealed their plans for removing and/or incorporating fuel supplements in the future, setting out specific guidelines for refunding of existing supplements, and incorporating future supplements into fares. Because the plan is pretty complicated, I'm going to put the release to the industry here in its entirety for your reading pleasure:

Over the past few months as fuel prices have declined, we have had many questions about our fuel supplement. While fuel prices today remain very volatile, we have given this careful consideration and I am pleased to update you on some new and important information regarding the fuel supplement for Carnival Corporation & plc brands.

Six of our brands, Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and The Yachts of Seabourn have announced that effective October 31, 2008, the existing fuel supplement will be eliminated for all new bookings on 2010 departures. At the same time, a price increase on 2010 sailings will become effective.

Additionally, the company has established specific guidelines under which the current fuel supplement may be reimbursed to consumers for 2008 and 2009 voyages. For 2008 and 2009 departures, if the price of light sweet crude oil according to the NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange Index) is $70 per barrel or less at the 2:30 p.m. close of business as reported by Reuters on each of the 25 consecutive trading days ending five trading days prior to the guest’s
cruise departure date, the fuel supplement will be refunded in the form of a shipboard credit.
Guests who book a 2010 cruise prior to Oct. 31, 2008, will still be charged the current fuel supplement but will also be eligible for a refund of the fuel supplement in accordance with the same fuel price conditions that are being implemented for current 2008 and 2009 departures.

We are implementing these initiatives due to recent trends in declining fuel prices in an effort to migrate away from charging a separate fuel supplement. If fuel prices stabilize below $70 a barrel, we will be able to effectively eliminate the fuel supplement. However, there is still a risk that fuel prices could move higher which would require us to maintain or reinstate a fuel supplement but we are hopeful that the goal of eliminating the fuel supplement can be achieved.

What does this really mean? Don't even think of looking for a rebate on cruises already booked unless, just before your sailing, crude pricing is below $70/barrel for the month prior to your cruise. And if that happens, be pro-active on your cruise to ensure you get the promised onboard credit. So if fuel drops to $70 a barrel or less for 25 days in December, 2008, but your cruise isn't until May, 2009, your fuel supplement will remain on your booking. However, if the fuel supplement is $70 or less for 25 consecutive days in April, start paying close attention for your May sailing - you may be eligible for an onboard credit refund.

Second, for new 2010 bookings starting October 31, fuel supplements will be incorporated into the price of your booking not a separate line item. This means likely they will not be taken out, even if fuel price is reduced in the future.

Thinking about booking one of the Carnival brands for a 2010 sailing? Do it prior to October 31! Otherwise, no chance of getting any type of fuel supplement refund, and you will see a price increase across the board on November 1.

Finally, watch for other lines to come out with plans of their own to incorporate fuel supplements into their pricing and/or how they would remove or refund them in the future.

Confusing? You bet. If you have questions, let me know. I'll be keeping on top of these to be sure

Holland America Creates Explorations Team

We're all familiar with a traditional "cruise director" staff - those people who organize the onboard activities such as trivia games, pool fun and evening entertainment. Holland America is taking that concept a step further, creating what they're calling their Explorations Team.

The Explorations Team will be comprised of event staff with specific expertise ranging from technology to travel who will offer guests a menu of “edutainment” programs. The Explorations Team will be a cohesive team dedicated to enhancing the overall cruise experience and includes an onboard party planner, a travel guide, a “techspert” and dance directors. On cruises lasting 12 days or more, a book club leader will also join the team. “People learn through experience and our guests are looking for programs, events and activities they can personally connect with,” said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president for marketing, sales and guest programs. “Our goal is not only to entertain guests but to offer them the opportunity to learn a new skill or discover something about a new port or country; the choice is theirs, and the Explorations Team is in place to facilitate that choice.”

The onboard party planner will schedule, implement and host events in the Culinary Arts Center, significantly expanding the program that already brings more than 70 culinary experts onboard each year for cooking demonstrations and seminars. The line has invested more than $14 million in the professional show kitchens found on each ship and will use the space for more activities such as wine tasting, craft classes, floral arranging, and table and lifestyle presentations such as creating the line’s towel animals. The travel guide will host lectures and be a source for information on the ports of call. A destination expert, the travel guide will be available throughout the cruise to interact with guests on a one-on-one basis, answer questions, and give presentations on the destination’s history, culture and geography. On Grand Voyages and on Prinsendam, rotating guest speakers fill the role of travel guide.

The “techspert” will be on hand to teach guests how to take advantage of technology, whether helping guests make the most of their vacation photos, arranging a digital scrapbook, blogging, creating a slideshow or editing a movie. Classes and workshops will be available throughout the cruise. Novices can learn about Web 2.0 and how to work with digital photos. Dance directors show guests how to dance. Classes and dance events are available throughout each cruise. On cruises lasting 12 or more days, a book club leader will host book discussions in the Explorations Café. Book titles will be posted online before the cruise so guests will have time to read the chosen book. The book club leader will plan and facilitate two to three discussions for each book. Books chosen will relate to the sailing destination whether by author or topic. For example, on an Australian itinerary the book may be “In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson or in Asia, “Saving Fish from Drowning: A Novel by Amy Tan.” The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be implemented fleetwide.

This type of group has long been a feature of luxury lines, and I think it demonstrates Holland America's committment to improving the quality of their onboard offerings and drawing in cruisers looking for more from their cruises.

Holland America Debuts New Martini Menu!

Just when you thought the martini craze was winding down...

Holland America Line has introduced a new menu of martini cocktails on board its fleet of 14 ships. Featured on the menu are 19 Grey Goose martinis and a sampler platter of miniature martinis called the martini flight. The martini flight includes Holland America Line’s signature martini, the Yellow Tulip, a mixture of Grey Goose vodka, lychee juice, pineapple juice, guava juice, coconut cream and fresh lime juice. Other martinis included in the flight are the Peartini, Cosmopolitan, Sunshine Martini, Rum Sundae and High Tide Martini. A house specialty will be a Martini for Two with aged Cognac served with a dish of caviar and traditional garnishes. Holland America Line’s new martini menu will be featured in the Explorer’s Bar on its newest ship, Eurodam, in the Pinnacle Grill Bar of its Vista-class ships and in the Ocean Bar on Amsterdam, Maasdam, Rotterdam, Ryndam, Statendam, Veendam, Volendam and Zaandam.

Launched as a precursor to the highly anticipated Martinis that will be a part of the upcoming Mix specialty theme bar area, Holland America Line’s new martini menu was inspired to infuse a splash of sophistication to its bars and lounges. Mix will incorporate three theme bars -- Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. These enhancements are part of a new $200 million Signature of Excellence upgrade to Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam that will start next spring with completion planned for late 2010.

Royal Caribbean Expands "My Time Dining"

Following the trend in the industry (one of the few times Royal Caribbean can be accused of following a trend rather than setting one), they've announced that they're expanding the "My Time Dining" program on selected ships through 2009. In fact, the Oasis of the Seas will debut with My Time Dining as an option when she sets sail in December, 2009, and through the November 27, 2010 sailing.

My Time Dining is similar to Princess' Personal Choice or Holland America's As You Wish dining, where you can arrive to a particular dining room any time between 6:00PM and 9:30PM each night. You may make reservations once onboard if you'd like to lock in a particular time. In order to participate, you must pre-pay gratuities.

The ships participating in the program are:

• Brilliance of the Seas® - Now through December 23, 2009
• Freedom of the Seas® - Now through December 27, 2009
• Independence of the SeasSM - Now through December 26, 2009
• Jewel of the Seas® - Now through December 21, 2009
• Radiance of the Seas® - Now through December 20, 2009
• Serenade of the Seas® - Now through December 26, 2009

Flexible dining options are definitely getting to be more popular. Next up, expect Carnival to dip their toes in this water as well. That would leave Celebrity as the only all-traditional dining in their main dining rooms.

That Was Quick! Turks & Caicos Cruise Port Scheduled Reopening

Carnival Corporation today announced the expected date to reopen the Turks & Caicos Cruise Port, with the first cruise ship call scheduled for October 8 with the Carnival Destiny.

This quick a reopening isn't unprecidented, as Cozumel re-opened in approximately the same amount of time after Category 5 Wilma slammed over the island 3 years ago. And I expect the reason for the quick reopening is for the same reason - the island desperately needs the income cruisers bring.

"We believe we can complete repairs to the cruise center within a 30-day period and bring cruise ships back to Grand Turk," said Giora Israel, Carnival's vice president of strategic planning and port development. In addition to its existing staff on the island, Carnival Corp. & plc will bring in a number of additional skilled workers who will not only repair the cruise center complex, but also assist in the repair of some of the island's key attractions.

"We will be investing millions of dollars in the coming months to help Grand Turk quickly rebuild its cruise-focused tourism. Bringing tourists back to the island as quickly as possible will play a major role in driving the island's overall recovery," said Israel.

The Grand Turk Cruise Center is the largest private employer on the island and the cruise center staff, combined with shore excursion operators, comprises approximately 80% of non-government jobs in Grand Turk.

Carnival Corporation & plc will also be providing financial and logistical assistance to shore excursion operators to enable them to resume their businesses. Cruise passengers and crew members will be provided the opportunity to participate in volunteer-oriented excursions for those who wish to assist in the island's recovery effort.

Turks & Caicos Off The Itineraries... For Now

In the wake of Hurricane Ike, which crossed over Grand Turk as a Category 4 hurricane, Grand Turk is being moved off the cruise line itineraries, at least for the near term. While the pier itself sustained little damage, having been built to withstand a Category 5 hurricane, as was the cruise center itself, most of the residents and other businesses on the island have suffered significant damage, and are in no position to be accepting cruise passengers at this time.

Carnival Corp lines (Carnival, Princess, Holland America, etc.) make up the bulk of the passengers to Grand Turk, and they are investigating other options. However, they have made a commitment to return as quickly as possible, as they understand the importance of tourism to the economy, and thus to the recovery of this island. Many residents are employed, directly or indirectly, in the cruise industry, so a return to work to them is doubly important.

In addition, passengers will miss this highly-rated port. However, I think most will understand that the decision to remove this port from sailings in the next few weeks is done for their benefit, but also for that of the residents who need to repair their homes and island before they can welcome visitors.

Hopefully this wonderful port will return soon to full capacity!

New Bars on 5 Holland America Ships

Holland America today made an announcement regarding their 5 older ships and a bar reconfiguration. While this will be a new concept to the Holland America fleet, it follows similar successful venues on other lines such as NCL. It will be interesting to see how this works, but I've enjoyed it on other lines.

Holland America Line will upgrade and reconfigure centrally located bars and lounges aboard five ships. The highlight is a large new space in the heart of the ship, called Mix, that incorporates three specialty theme bars -- Martinis, Champagne, and Spirits & Ales. These enhancements are part of a new $200 million Signature of Excellence upgrade to the Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. “A focus of this latest Signature of Excellence series of enhancements is our entertainment venues, where we’ve created the ultimate place to both socialize and be entertained,” said Richard Meadows, CTC, executive vice president of marketing, sales and guest programs. “Our guests are looking for an upscale, trendy spot where they can gather together and be part of this exciting new ambiance.”

Mix is designed as a destination lounge where guests can mingle throughout the day and night while being entertained by a pianist. Champagne offers 20 champagnes and sparkling wines by the glass or bottle. The centerpiece of the bar is an ice-filled countertop that chills champagne bottles. This venue will offer events such as late champagne breakfast, pre-lunch Mimosa and Bellini hour, champagne tea time and pre-dinner champagne hour with caviar canapés. Martinis serves up 25 Grey Goose martinis in individual shakers as well as a full range of cocktails. Guests can also enjoy a martini flight made up of several mini martinis.

The martini flight includes Holland America’s signature martini, the Yellow Tulip, a mixture of Grey Goose vodka, lychee juice, pineapple juice, guava juice, coconut cream and fresh lime juice. Other martinis included in the flight are the Peartini, Cosmopolitan, Sunshine Martini, Rum Sundae and High Tide Martini. A house specialty will be a signature Martini for Two with aged Cognac served with a dish of caviar and traditional garnishes. Spirits & Ales will feature an international selection of beers and premium whiskeys and brandies. The Ocean Bar will be enhanced to refresh its look. Guests can take ballroom dancing lessons from the line’s staff. The resident three-piece music combo will perform here.

Anyone else getting thirsty?

Holland America Returns to Bermuda in 2010!

For those cruisers who love Bermuda, and who have been disappointed in the options to cruise there the past few years, it is time to celebrate. Holland America has announced they will return to the pink sands of Bermuda in 2010!

Sailing between New York and Bermuda on 7-night itineraries, the Veendam will visit both St. George's and Hamilton. The itinerary will inaugurate in August, 2010, with 10 sailings that year, then returning in 2011 for a full season of sailings starting in May, with 20 or more sailings anticipated.

In a notable twist for ship lovers and historians, the Veendam II was the first Holland America vessel to visit Bermuda more than 70 years ago in 1926. Of course, the current Veendam is a bit larger and more updated, but especially with the new Signature of Excellence enhancements just announced (see below), she will continue her legacy of premium cruising to Bermuda.

Holland America Signature of Excellence - Phase II

As part of their ongoing Signature of Excellence efforts, Holland America has announced $200 million in further enhancements to the Statendam, Ryndam, Veendam, Maasdam and Rotterdam over the next 2 years. The improvements will take place during extensive dry docks, with the Veendam being first up in Spring, 2009, and the last ship to be completed in late 2010.

The upgrades to these ships will include a new resort pool concept, lanai staterooms, new entertainment and enrichment options, new stateroom décor and more.

The most dramatic alteration will be to the aft portion of the ships, allowing for a new resort-style pool area on Lido Deck called The Retreat, which will have a shallow area where guests can lounge in chairs and dip their fingers and toes in the water or relax on a bench and dangle their legs in the water. (You'll find me there! That sounds heavenly!) A new pool bar and an upscale pizzeria called Slice will be installed, as well as a canopy and wind screens to provide additional covered seating for the Lido Restaurant.

All staterooms will receive new décor, carpeting and soft goods. Each ship also will have an additional 44 to 46 staterooms, 32 with verandahs and the remaining inside.

Keeping in line with the current popularity of "Spa" cabins, the four S-class ships will have verandahs added to 12 staterooms near the spa on Deck 9, and along with three inside staterooms, become spa staterooms featuring enhanced spa amenities. On the Rotterdam, 23 staterooms on Verandah Deck will become spa staterooms.

On all the five ships, 46 new lanai staterooms will be created by replacing existing windows of 42 staterooms (on Lower Promenade Deck 6) with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade, and adding four additional staterooms.

The program also involves enhancements to several public rooms. A Merabella luxury jewelry shop will be added. The casino and piano bars will be reconfigured into a multi-themed area called Mix with three separate bars -- Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Next door, the casino will be redesigned. The main show space will be transformed into the Showroom at Sea with the ambiance of a glamorous nightclub. The Ocean Bar will be refurbished and carpets will be replaced in most public areas. The new Sky Room on Sports Deck will feature the latest in multi-generational video games and high-tech entertainment.

Entertainment and enrichment, or “edutainment,” is taking on a new, contemporary look and feel across the fleet. A new Explorations Team employs cruise staff, each specializing in a particular area, to educate and entertain guests with an expanded menu of activities including flower-arranging, hands-on cooking, dancing, and working with digital photos, blogs and movies. Each team consists of a party planner, a travel guide, dance directors and a “techspert.” On longer cruises, a book club leader joins the team to lead lively group discussions.

These enhancements should provide a nice facelift to these classic ships in the HAL fleet, and keep the fresh and vital and very appealing.

HAL Changes Air/Sea Policies

While one Carnival Corporation brand, Princess, made a move to be more consumer friendly, another sister brand is making a move on their air/sea bookings which could effect you decision to book air through them.

The cruise lines in general don't really like making your air reservations, and do it as a service, or to stimulate sales (such as for exotic destinations). But because they don't like it, and make very little off it in general (even though often their prices are higher than if you booked direct, unless there's an air special on your sailing), they're getting more and more restrictive.

Holland America has announced that they're going to start enforcing the stipulation that, until your cruise and air fare is paid in full, the air pricing is NOT guaranteed. Same goes for the air taxes and air fuel supplements. Of course, the air and cruise are fully refundable up to final payment date, but it's something to take into consideration when adding on cruise air to Holland America bookings - you might just want to pay in full, then remove the air if you find a better deal later.

HAL is being forced to make this change due to their air suppliers not wanting to guarantee rates out a year or more in advance. Don't be surprised if other brands, both Carnival Corp. sister brands such as Princess, and others follow in the near future as their air contracts come up for renewal and pricing for 2009 and beyond.

Holland America Opens 2009 Alaska Bookings

Many of you have been anxiously awaiting this, and Holland America has finally opened their 2009 Alaska season. Technically, if you call HAL, they'll tell you the cruisetours aren't yet open, but I do have it available to book right now.

The Veendam, Ryndam and Statendam will be doing their cruisetour departures between Vancouver and Seward featuring Glacier Bay and the College Fjords on most departures, while the Westerdam and Zaandam will do 7-night Seattle roundtrips featuring Glacier Bay and the Amsterdam will also sail roundtrip from Seattle visiting Hubbard Glacier. From Vancouver, the Volendam and Zuiderdam will sail roundtrip with Glacier Bay visits.

The cruisetour itineraries remain the same as this year's, which will facilitate selection of your preferred itinerary.

If you've been waiting for Alaska to open up, now's the time to book!

Carnival Corporation Lines Raise Fuel Supplement

In a series of press releases today, Carnival Corporation brands have announced they will be increasing their fuel supplements. The increases will impact Carnival, Princess, Holland America, Costa, Cunard and Seabourn.

Carnival Corporation has stated that, starting with new bookings on or after April 21, 2008, they will increase the fuel supplement to $7/person per day for the first and second passengers, up to a maximum of $98/person per voyage, and for the first time implement a supplement of $2/person per day up to a maximum of $28/person per voyage for the third and fourth passengers as well.

Of course, for bookings made between November 7 and April 20, the originally-announced supplements of $5/person per day will apply.

What does this mean to you?

First off, if you're looking to book any of these lines, try to do so before April 21 for a bit of a savings. Secondly, expect to see the other lines (meaning Royal Caribbean, Azamara and Celebrity) following very soon.

Holland America to Asia-Pacific in 2009!

Holland America Line will feature a selection of nine voyages to the Asia Pacific region in 2009. For the first time, Volendam will sail to destinations throughout the Pacific, calling at locales in China, Southeast Asia, Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam and Russia. A convenient new round-trip Hong Kong itinerary is offered, and four maiden calls are planned in Puerto Princesa, Philippines; Otaru, Japan; Sanya, Hainan, China; and Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan. The itineraries visit more than a dozen popular Pacific Rim nations on cruises from 14 to 19 days that can be combined for a voyage of up to 66 days.

The Volendam is an excellent ship for this series of sailings. She was the largest of the pre-Vista class ships, and is comfortable, roomy, very functional and of course beautiful. For those of you who love Holland America, and are experiencing a bit of "been there, done that", these 9 voyages could offer just the ticket to exploration in a new region for you!

Starting in late-September, 2009, from either Vancouver or Seattle, they are followed by two new "Indonesian Islands and the Great Barrier Reef" itineraries will visit Komodo Island, part of the Komodo National Park; Padang Bai, Bali; and Semarang, a city teeming with ancient temples. These cruises include four days of cruising the Great Barrier Reef, including two days of daylight cruising through the world's largest coral reef system. The 19-day itinerary from Auckland to Singapore departs March 16, 2009, and the 15-day Singapore to Sydney cruise departs Nov. 21, 2009. Holland America also features a selection of nine voyages Down Under in 2009 with 14-day cruises and a 16-day holiday sailing between Australia and New Zealand.

Holland America Previews Eurodam

If you're a fan of the classic ships of Holland America, you've been watching with interest the progress of the new Holland America Eurodam, debuting in July of this year. Holland America's decided to make it easier for you and build some additional excitement about this entirely new class of ship.

The site features videos, photographs, animation and renderings. An invitation to explore the Eurodam greets visitors to the site. A rendering features animation and a fly-over shot gives a 360-degree view of the ship. Stateroom renderings show the contemporary, monochromatic design accented with bursts of color, a departure from the line's usual floral schemes. Eurodam ship renderings and animation are used in combination with photos and narrated videos from other Holland America Line ships to give visitors an idea of what it will be like to sail aboard the 2,104-guest Eurodam.

Oh yes, you probably want the site address, don't you? Eurodam

Holland America and Azamara Ease Navigation

This past week, two cruise lines dramatically improved the way they handle navigation... of their web sites! Both Holland America and Azamara debuted revitalized websites with easier navigation and more tools to help you research and find information on their itineraries, ports, destinations and excursions.

With more rich media features, www.hollandamerica.com combines updated graphics, reorganized information and search tools. An interactive map lets users click on a continent and zoom in on a particular destination with access to port details, shore excursions, and itineraries. A video gallery is filled with snapshots, video clips, virtual tours, ebrochures and podcasts. Content covers destinations, ship details and activities. Video clips give an overview of dining options, show the range of shipboard activities and highlight global destinations. Podcasts narrate the collection of art and antiques displayed on each ship. A new Cruise Finder tool helps visitors narrow down options on their desired itinerary. Visitors may select up to three itineraries to compare side-by-side. After choosing to view details on one, adjoining tabs display a map, destination information, available shore excursions and ship information. By creating an account, visitors may save favorites to review later.

Holland America's site even makes choosing an Alaska Cruise Tour easier! Visitors are asked to rate an array of photos based on their personal preferences. Is it important to see tidewater glaciers or visit the Yukon? After rating photos, the guide recommends three cruise-tours based on responses. A new My Account feature allows visitors to set up an account with their personal profile where they can save favorite cruises and shore excursions for later review. Visitors can also book shore excursions, check-in online and buy onboard gifts. The website will return information to the visitor based on their identified interest. For example, current promotions available in Europe are displayed for a visitor looking at European destinations.

Azamara's revitalized site, in addition to allowing cruisers to browse itineraries and cruise tour options and shore excursions, now features a new virtual ship tour with interactive images, as well as 360-degree views of all stateroom categories, enhanced ship-deck information, details about the experience onboard Azamara's ships and in the ports and cities to which they sail, and facts about pre- and post-cruise stays in various destinations. Members of Azamara's loyalty program, Captain's Club, can edit their membership profile online and eligible guests who want to sign up can experience real-time enrollment. Cruisers also can access a feature that allows them to create and maintain a personal profile that includes their favorite itineraries and personal and emergency contact details.

More and more, the cruise line websites are becoming full functioning with virtual tours of cabins and public areas, chock full of destination information so you can better plan your time in port, and information on your time onboard. Once you've booked your cabin, you have full access to pre-cruise reservations, excursions and even spa reservations on some lines. You can even view a full eBrochure! Check them out!

Holland America's Volendam to Australia in 2009

Holland America has announced 9 sailings in the 2009/2010 cruise season on the Volendam throughout Australia and New Zealand. This ship represents the largest Holland America has sent to the region thus far.

The itineraries range in length from 14-19 nights, and will depart from Singapore, Auckland or Sydney. Of course, this also means there could be some interesting repositioning cruises as well!

Holland America Heads Down Under

HAL returns to their popular Australia and New Zealand itineraries in 2009, this time with the Amsterdam.

Starting with a 67-day voyage to the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, this "Grand Voyage" departs Sept. 26, 2009, from Seattle, and sails westward to Papeete, Tahiti; Bora Bora; Pago Pago, Samoa; Port-Vila, Vanuatu; Cairns and Sydney, Australia; Christchurch, Napier and Tauranga, New Zealand; Hawaii; and Los Angeles.

Highlights include scenic cruising through New Zealand's Milford Sound, a 12-mile long incision through 5,000-foot hillsides, and Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The voyage also offers more than 20 relaxing days at sea. Holland America Line offers departures from Seattle, Vancouver or Los Angeles, and segments from 31 to 36 days. Reservations are now open. Early-booking bonus amenities for full-cruise guests include airfare, prepaid hotel service charges, shipboard credit, luggage delivery service and limousine transfers when booking select stateroom categories; amenities vary by cruise and booking date. Cruise fares start at $11,399 per person, double occupancy, for the entire 67-day cruise. Taxes and fuel supplement are additional.

For those wishing to cruise in Australia and New Zealand, but who want to avoid long flights, this extended voyage is just the ticket!