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Port of Galveston Police ensures Safety and Security on Waterfront

Image Source, Port of Galveston

Image Source, Port of Galveston

By Rodger Rees

Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

The Port of Galveston Police Department is crucial in safeguarding public safety and security within the expansive 840-acre port. Led by Chief Kenneth Brown, a seasoned law enforcement professional with more than 25 years of experience, the department consists of 34 sworn officers, 6 telecommunicators, and 2 civilian office staff.

Considering the port’s activity as a top-ranked cargo and cruise port, our police officers are presented with unique challenges. Chief Brown expertly oversees the department's round-the-clock operation, employing four shifts of law enforcement officers and dispatchers.

Port officers are specially trained to navigate the distinct intricacies of port-related situations. They collaborate closely with local, state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, FBI, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, Galveston County Sheriff's Department, and city of Galveston police, fire and emergency medical services. This collaborative effort ensures a comprehensive approach to public safety and security.

The department is involved in all aspects of daily port operations. From monitoring and facilitating entry into secured areas to engaging with ship captains to review regulations and security directives, the officers actively contribute to smooth cargo operations. They surveil port facilities for potential safety hazards, breaches of security, and environmental risks.

Officers also play an important role in safety and security for the more than 1 million cruise passengers who embark each year from North America's fourth busiest cruise port. Beyond terminal security services contracted by the cruise lines, port police enforce the law, address passenger concerns, and facilitate traffic flow.

Thanks to our port police, our port-operated cruise parking facilities are the safest on the island. They patrol the lots and monitor security cameras around the clock.

In 2022, the Port of Galveston Police Department demonstrated remarkable dedication, responding to 39,884 calls for service, processing 1,019 police reports, and handling 43 vehicle accidents. Additionally, they collected more than 670 pieces of evidence and issued 393 traffic citations.

We also have a presence on the water. Specially trained Marine Division officers operate a state-of-the-art, 31-foot police boat with cutting-edge navigational and rescue equipment. They patrol the waterways, oversee vessel escorts, and actively monitor and mitigate potential threats or hazards. The division also plays a vital role in search and rescue missions, swiftly responding to emergencies and calls from distressed vessels.

In 2021, the Port of Galveston Police Department earned accreditation through the Law Enforcement Best Practices program established by the Texas Police Chiefs Association. This accreditation places the department among Texas's top-tier law enforcement agencies, demonstrating its commitment to excellence.

The Port of Galveston Police Department is vital in keeping the port, its workers and its guests safe and secure. Their dedicated work often goes unnoticed as they ensure a thriving maritime hub. Go blue!

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“Smoke on the Water & Fire in the Sky” 2023 Fireworks Celebration Kickoff Sunday, July 2 at Port Canaveral

Event parking and traffic plan emphasizes safety and organized exit

Image Source, Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral, FL – June 26, 2023 – Skies above Port Canaveral will light up with color and sound on Sunday July 2nd for the annual “Smoke on the Water & Fire in the Sky” fireworks celebration being hosted by the Cove Merchants Association at Port Canaveral and the Canaveral Port Authority. The festivities begin at 5:00 PM and the fireworks will launch after dark at 9:00 PM.

The event at Port Canaveral is the first of three area fireworks celebrations that are the hallmark of the Space Coast’s Independence Day events - July 3rd fireworks at Cocoa Beach, followed by July 4th fireworks at Cocoa Village.  

Public access for viewing the July 2nd fireworks at Port Canaveral will be available at the Cove District and the Port’s Exploration Tower Lawn. Free parking will be available at The Cove parking lot for patrons of The Cove restaurants until capacity is reached. Designated parking areas at Port Canaveral will be available for the fireworks event at $10 per vehicle, cash or credit cards accepted. See Parking Overview map below for designated lot locations.

There are no public viewing locations on the north side of Port Canaveral (“A” Cruise Terminals and North Cargo Operations) or on any portion of State Road 401.

Special Event Traffic Plan

A comprehensive special event parking and traffic flow plan was jointly developed by Brevard County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), Canaveral Fire Rescue and Canaveral Port Authority Public Safety to promote safe arrival at the Port before the event and exiting the Port once the fireworks display concludes. The traffic flow plan will have road closures in the Cove Restaurant District and utilize one-way directional exiting of Port roads following the event.

To help expedite traffic departure and flow, the parking lot that a guest chooses for their vehicle will determine what road may be used for exiting the lot. Guests planning to attend the event should review the parking and traffic flow maps prior to arrival, make their plans accordingly, and follow electronic signs to their desired lot.

Electronic and fixed signage will be located on roadways and intersections in the Port to direct motorists arriving for the festivities. Deputies, parking attendants and staff will be located at key traffic intersections around the Port to assist motorists.

Visitors should select the parking lot that offers the most efficient exit to the roadway needed for their return trip. For example, a motorist who wants to return to Merritt Island should park in Lot A or B. Or a guest returning to beachside communities should park in Lot B, D or the Overflow Lot. Guests who park in The Cove dining and entertainment district may exit either way but should expect longer delays.

NOTE: The Cove parking lot is free for patrons of Cove businesses. 

Port Canaveral fireworks parking map

(Photo: Canaveral Port Authority)

EXITING PORT CANAVERAL AFTER FIREWORKS
 
IF YOU PLAN ON TRAVELING ON SR 528
Use Lots A or B
 
IF YOU PLAN ON DRIVING TO CAPE CANAVERAL, COCOA BEACH, BEACH COMMUNITIES OR POINTS SOUTH, SR A1A or SR 520
Use Lots B, D, OR OVERFLOW

Lots D and Overflow WILL BE DIRECTED TOWARD North Atlantic Blvd until traffic clears
 
ACCESSIBLE PARKING LOT

Will allow entrance to SR 528 or SR A1A

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Image Source, Port Canaveral

Image Source, Norwegian Cruise Line

Port Canaveral, FL – June 1, 2023 - Norwegian Cruise Lines has recently announced their decision to reposition the Norwegian Epic to Port Canaveral this winter, in response to the growing demand for Caribbean sailings. Starting from December 17, 2023, the ship will offer seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, providing guests with unforgettable experiences in these sought-after destinations.

(Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line)

"Thanks to our great partnership and strong collaboration with Norwegian, we’re delighted to welcome back Norwegian Epic. She's a terrific addition to our fleet of homeported ships offering a variety of Caribbean sailings to meet the surging demand," stated Capt. john Murray, Port CEO. "We're proud to be the preferred port for millions of cruisse guests, and proud of the confidence in our Port to deliver a high-quality experience."

In an announcement, a Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson said, “we are committed to providing exceptional vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and by taking our guests to some of the most sought-out destinations around the world.”

The Norwegian Epic, belonging to the Epic-class of ships, boasts impressive specifications, including a gross tonnage of 155,873 GT, a length of 1,081 feet, and a height of 200 feet. With 19 decks, the ship can accommodate 4,100 passengers (based on double occupancy) and 1,724 crew members.

The Norwegian Epic offers a range of unique and captivating features, such as the Haven, the first ship-in-a-ship enclave. Guests can also enjoy amenities like a bowling alley, an Ice Bar, and The Epic Plunge, the only bowl slide at sea. These exciting features provide ample entertainment for guests during their extra day at sea.

Additional information on Norwegian Epic’s new voyages from Port Canaveral will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

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Galveston Cruise Terminal Getting $53 Million Makeover for Carnival Jubilee Arrival

Galveston, TX (May 19, 2023) – The Galveston Wharves is investing $53 million in a major expansion at Cruise Terminal 25 to accommodate Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Jubilee, a new cruise ship arriving in December.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming the beautiful new Carnival Jubilee to our improved cruise terminal,” said Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO. “We’re proud to have Carnival Cruise Line, our long-time cruise partner, choose Galveston as the home port for its newest ship.”

With a capacity of 6,500 guests, Carnival Jubilee is larger than the Carnival ships currently sailing from the terminal. Construction plans include improvements to accommodate the ship, move guests efficiently during debarkation and embarkation, and update the two-decades-old terminal, Rees said.

Carnival Jubilee features six unique activity zones and specialty restaurants featuring chefs Emeril Lagasse, Shaquille O’Neil, Guy Fieri, and Rudy Sodamin. Beginning in December, Carnival Jubilee will sail from Galveston with seven-day itineraries to Western Caribbean destinations. (Renderings courtesy Carnival Cruise Line)

Construction plans include gangway modifications, a ramp, two elevators and an escalator, as well as a new roof. The new gangways are being built in Spain. Rees added that cruise operations will continue during the project. 

The port also will make mandated improvements to facilities used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which provides essential safety and security services at the terminal.   

Investing in the Future

Rees said that these improvements are a long-term investment in the port’s future growth, more jobs and a stronger regional economy. As the fourth most popular cruise port in the U.S. and the only home port in Texas, the port generates two-thirds of its revenues from its cruise business. Rees added that the port reinvests net operational revenues in capital projects to grow its business.

In 2022, the port’s cruise activity generated 3,500 jobs, $568 million in local business revenue and $73.5 million in local purchases by passengers and crew. The port is on track to set new records in 2023 as the result of more people cruising, new and larger ships sailing from Galveston, and the opening of a third cruise terminal in late 2022.

The port will fund the cruise terminal expansion with cash reserves, a proposed bond issue and an agreement with Carnival

“Carnival was the first major cruise line to homeport in Galveston more than 20 years ago. They believed in us then and believe in Galveston’s growing prominence as a top cruise port today,” Rees said.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE ADDS SEASON OF ‘FUN ITALIAN STYLE’ IN PORT CANAVERAL
WITH NEW CARNIVAL VENEZIA SAILINGS OPEN FOR LATE 2024

Carnival Venezia to Reposition from New York to Florida for “Snowbird” Winter Series

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla., May 16, 2023 – As Carnival Cruise Line prepares to debut its new ‘Carnival Fun Italian Style’ experiences on its latest addition to the fleet, Carnival Venezia, the cruise line is opening future sailings for the ship that include a series of departures from Port Canaveral, Fla. as the ship heads south for winter of 2024-25 like millions of other Northeasterners, before returning to New York in the spring of 2025.

            “The sailings we’re opening today will allow us to share this new signature fun with more guests and bring another truly dynamic offering to one of our most popular homeports,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Carnival Venezia’s seasonal operation in Port Canaveral will bring our deployment there to five vessels and give our valued Carnival guests another great option when sailing from Central Florida.”

Carnival Venezia will reposition from New York with a 12-Day Southern Caribbean Carnival Journeys Cruise that departs on Dec. 6, 2024 and visits St. Thomas; St. Croix; Aruba; Curacao and Grand Turk and arrives to Port Canaveral on Dec. 18, 2024. The ship will embark its first guests from Port Canaveral on the same day and depart for a four-day Bahamas cruise, visiting Nassau and Freeport, to kick off its winter series. It will then operate 15 seven-day cruises, rotating itineraries and visiting a variety of popular destinations, as well as sailing two special 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises. After its seasonal deployment in Florida, the ship will return to New York in the spring of 2025.

To see Carnival’s wide range of sailing options offered from Port Canaveral, click here.

The following itineraries are examples of the sailings now open for sale on Carnival Venezia from Port Canaveral:

• Week-Long Sailings from Port Canaveral Seven-Day Exotic Eastern Caribbean Cruise departs Dec. 22, 2024 and visits Grand Turk; San Juan, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas. Similar cruise itineraries are also available on five additional departure dates between February and April in 2025.

• Seven-Day Exotic Eastern Caribbean Cruise departs Jan. 5, 2025 and April 27, 2025 and visits Amber Cove; San Juan, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas.

• Seven-Day Exotic Western Caribbean Cruise departs Dec. 29, 2024 as well as Jan. 26, 2025 and March 23, 2025 and visits Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan; Belize and Cozumel, Mexico.

• Seven-Day Western Caribbean Cruise departs Feb. 9, 2025 and March 9, 2025 and visits Nassau, Bahamas; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. 

• Seven-Day Western Caribbean Cruise departs April 6, 2025 and April 20, 2025 and visits Nassau, Bahamas; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. 

Special Carnival Journeys Cruises from Port Canaveral

• 14-Day Southern Caribbean Cruise departs Jan. 12, 2025 and visits St. Thomas; Antigua; Dominica; Grenada; Barbados; St. Maarten; St. Kitts and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

• 14-Day Southern Caribbean Cruise departs Feb. 23, 2025 and visits Grand Turk; Aruba; Curacao; Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Limon, Costa Rica and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.

The 5,000-guest Carnival Venezia will soon embark its first guests on a 15-day Carnival Journeys transatlantic sailing May 29, 2023 from Barcelona and arrive to her new home at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York City. The ship’s first cruise from New York, a four-day cruise to Bermuda, is set for June 15, 2023. From its New York homeport through December 2024, the ship will operate 10 different cruise durations and 22 unique itineraries featuring visits to 25 ports across 14 countries.

Carnival Venezia is currently undergoing an enhancement project in Spain and will be the first ship to showcase ‘Carnival Fun Italian Style.’ It will debut a slate of fun concepts and experiences influenced by the ship’s Italian design, since it was originally built under Carnival’s sister brand, Costa Cruises, and boasts beautiful architectural features inspired by Venice, Italy that make the ship a unique addition to the Carnival fleet. Guests will find the same warm hospitality on Carnival Venezia that Carnival is known for fleetwide.

Guests will also find many Carnival mainstays they know and love on board, including Guy Fieri’s Guy’s Burger Joint, the steakhouse Fahrenheit 555, Bonsai Sushi & Teppanyaki and the Chef’s Table, along with Lido Marketplace, Seafood Shack and Pizzeria del Capitano, Piano Bar 88 and Heroes Tribute Lounge. In addition, the ship will bring several new dining and beverage offerings into the fleet, including the new specialty restaurant, “Il Viaggio,” which promises a culinary journey with a menu curated to offer guests the best regional dishes and drinks from several regions of Italy. Guests can also expect the high-energy entertainment they know and love fleetwide on board Carnival Venezia, with several Playlist Production shows set to take the stage and special programming developed for children and families.

To see all sailings currently open for sale on Carnival Venezia, click here.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE BEGINS NORFOLK’S BIGGEST-EVER CRUISE SEASON

Carnival Magic to Embark 100,000 Guests Through October

Carnival Cruise Line is beginning its longest deployment yet in Norfolk, Va. today, with Carnival Magic sailing its first cruise of an extended season that is expected to bring the highest volume of cruise guests to the city in its history.

Carnival Magic is set to welcome 100,000 guests embarking through Norfolk’s Half Moone Cruise Center this season. The ship will operate a series of 26 cruises, ranging in length from four- to 10-days, through Oct. 27, 2023. 

"It's wonderful to be back in Norfolk, our home for this extended season over the next five months," said Carnival Magic Captain Bruno Palomba." All of our Carnival Magic team members are looking forward to welcoming guests on board and ensuring they have a great vacation.”

Throughout the season, Carnival Magic will visit popular ports in The Bahamas, such as Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Freeport and Bimini, as well as Bermuda and Caribbean destinations, such as San Juan; Amber Cove; and Grand Turk. Today’s cruise is a seven-day itinerary visiting Nassau, Bimini and Freeport in The Bahamas.

The ship accommodates up to 4,724 guests and features a wide variety of stateroom accommodations, a multitude of dining options, Carnival’s signature entertainment, the Cloud 9 spa, water slides and the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. To see current sailings available on Carnival Magic from Norfolk through the fall, click here.

To see all available sailings from Norfolk through 2025, click here.

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A Star is Born - Princess Cruises Names Second Sphere Class Ship STAR PRINCESS

Newest Princess Ship from Princess is a Cruise Lover’s Dream, Sails Inaugural 2025 Mediterranean Season

Image Source, Princess Cruise

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 12, 2023) – Princess Cruises, the most iconic cruise line in the world, today revealed the name of its second, sensational Sphere Class cruise ship – Star Princess, which will sail an inaugural season of Mediterranean voyages when she debuts in August 2025.

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, Star Princess joins Sun Princess as the largest ships ever built for Princess at 175,500 tons and carrying 4,300 guests. The new ship is built on a platform that is distinctly different and unique to Princess, designed to simultaneously embrace the Princess heritage while celebrating the romance of the sea by offering more dynamic, outward views.

While 20 percent larger than any of the line’s existing ships, Star Princess design retains the more intimate settings Princess is known for, with a number of new and incredibly ground-breaking spaces such as:  

• The Dome, a transformational entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini;

• the next-level Piazza featuring a glass sphere

• the “see it to believe it” Princess Arena, a configurable, technologically-advanced main theater that allows Princess to produce a variety of innovative entertainment concepts; and

• a majestic dining room positioned aft of the ship to deliver unforgettable wake views.

This second Sphere Class ship will also offer a number of spectacular features with an array of exciting new food and beverage concepts; a magnificent, expanded casino; a two-story Lotus Spa; and mesmerizing entertainment headlined by Cirque Éloize. 

Guests also will love the expanded accommodations options with luxurious staterooms and suites, including the new Reserve and Signature Collections. 

Star Princess also will showcase the exclusive Princess Medallion service that extends Princess’ leadership position in delivering exceptional personalized experiences.

The new ship will be the second in the Princess fleet to be powered by LNG fuel technology and also is being built with the most advanced sustainable innovations available.

Star Princess debuts August 4, 2025, sailing a nine-day Inaugural Italy & Greece roundtrip voyage from Rome (Civitavecchia), featuring the destinations of Corfu, Kotor, Mykonos, Santorini and Naples (for Capri and Pompeii), followed by a variety of 9- and 10-day cruises sailing from Rome, Athens or Trieste (Venice) that visit idyllic coastal ports. Star Princess cruises go on sale with the larger Europe 2025 program release on June 1, 2023.

“There’s much to be admired about Star Princess - her sleek, eye-catching design, spacious interiors, and of course, the remarkable views of the sea and sky, just like the features found on Sun Princess that have prompted cruise lovers to snap up inaugural year bookings,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “We’ve carefully designed these ships to feel familiar to our guests yet significantly advanced with lots of exceptional new and expanded experiences to embrace and explore.” 

Princess’ first Star Princess ship initially launched in 1988 as Sitmar Fair Majesty. With the merger of Sitmar Cruises into Princess, she then entered service as Star Princess in 1989, and was christened by legendary actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn. The second Star Princess launched in 2002, as the third Grand-Class vessel playing an instrumental role in the evolution of the brand with popular offerings like Anytime Dining, the only dining program in the industry at the time to give guests freedom to dine where, when and with whom they wish. 

Further details about Star Princess including dining, entertainment, onboard amenities and future itineraries will be shared in the coming months. Ship information and images can be found at https://www.princess.com/ships-and-experience/ships/st-star-princess/.

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Princess Cruises to Homeport Caribbean Princess in Port Canaveral Starting November 2024

Caribbean Princess will offer 6-, 8-, and 14-day itineraries to Eastern and Western Caribbean, The Bahamas, and their private island at Princess Cays

Image Source, Princess Cruise

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. (May 9, 2023) – For the first time ever, Princess Cruises will homeport in Central Florida. The iconic “Love Boat” brand will re-position its Caribbean Princess ship in late November 2024 to sail eastern and western Caribbean itineraries out of Port Canaveral for its winter season.

Starting November 27, 2024, the 3,140-passenger ship will sail four to 14-day cruises out of Port Canaveral. Itinerary highlights include:

• One departure of a 4-day Turks & Caicos Getaway over Thanksgiving holiday

• Five departures of our 8-day Eastern Caribbean with St. Thomas sailing to St. Thomas, St. Maarten, San Juan and Grand Turk

• Five departures of our 8-day Western Caribbean with Mexico sailing to Cozumel, Costa Maya, Belize City and Roatan (Mahogany Bay)

• Nine departures of our 6-day Eastern Caribbean with Turks & Caicos including Nassau, Grand Turk and either Amber Cove or San Juan

• Combine any of the 8-day and 6-day itineraries for a 14-day vacation

Princess takes pride in being considered the #1 Large Ship Cruise Line by USA Today due to world-class dining and Broadway-inspired entertainment, all delivered with amazing service and at an exceptional value. Caribbean Princess cruises from Port Canaveral go on sale May 24.

“The combination of a vibrant Central Florida community, exceptional flight options into Orlando International Airport and great pre-cruise and post-cruise experience options makes Port Canaveral an easy choice,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “Princess is unique in its ability to deliver incredible cruise ship amenities typical of the largest ships in the world, while delivering personalized service found on the industry’s smallest ships.”

The exclusive Princess Medallion powers a personalized, customized and simplified experience for each and every guest. The connected guest experience maximizes guests’ vacation time by delivering a host of onboard conveniences including contactless payment for anything on board as well as in select shops and restaurants in ports; expedited embarkation; keyless stateroom entry; muster anywhere; friends and family locator; and ordering food, drinks, retail items or requesting service from their smart phone or stateroom TV and having their order delivered directly to them…even if they are moving.

Establishing Port Canaveral as a homeport is part of the expansion of Princess Cruises’ North America presence to offer exciting new voyage options that guests can conveniently access from major drive markets like Central Florida.

“Our collaboration with Princess Cruises marks an exciting milestone for us,” stated Capt. John Murray, Port CEO. “The fleet of ships homeported at Port Canaveral continues to grow with next year’s arrival of Caribbean Princess. We’re looking forward to providing a high-quality experience for our new cruise partners and their cruise guests.

Caribbean Princess features 1,571 staterooms and a total capacity of 3,140 guests and 1,200 crew. It has 19 decks, including 15 passenger decks, and encompasses 112,894 gross tons. It launched in 2004.

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26 sailings scheduled for first summer program in North America and the Caribbean

Port Canaveral, FL – May 11, 2023 – Marella Cruises’ Discovery sailed from Port Canaveral’s Cruise Terminal 5, kicking off a slate of 26 weekly sailings between now and November. The sailing of the Discovery is also Marella’s first from the United States.

"We are excited to extend a warm welcome Marella Cruises’ Discovery and honored that they’ve chosen to base their first homeport in the United States at Port Canaveral,” said Capt. John Murray, Port CEO. "Their decision to join us is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and only adds to our reputation as the world's busiest port. We are proud to be associated with a high-quality brand as Marella and look forward to providing an exceptional customer experience for their guests."

Marella is a division of TUI United Kingdom and Ireland and TUI World group. To that end, five flights will arrive weekly at Melbourne Orlando International Airport from the U.K. with roughly 1,500 British passengers weekly who will sail on each cruise.

In keeping with maritime tradition, Canaveral Port Authority Commissioner RADM Wayne Justice (USCG-Ret.) presented Marella Discovery Capt. Chris Douglass with a plaque welcoming the ship to Port Canaveral for the first time. The ship was escorted as she departed Port Canaveral out to sea with a traditional water gun salute led by Canaveral Fire Rescue’s “Fireboat 2,” and two tugboats provided by Seabulk and E.N. Bisso.

“It gives me a great amount of pride to welcome the Marella Discovery as Port Canaveral’s newest homeported vessel,” said Admiral Justice. “This exciting milestone marks a significant moment for our Port, and we look forward to welcoming passengers from around the world as they embark on unforgettable adventures from Florida’s Space Coast.  We’re honored to have Marella Cruises as a valuable partner in our community."

Canaveral Port Authority Commissioner RADM Wayne Justice (USCG-Ret.) welcomes Marella Discovery Capt. Chris Douglass to Port Canaveral for inaugural visit

(Photo: Canaveral Port Authority) 

The Discovery will have varying itineraries on its “American Dream, Floridian Favourites and Sunshine State and Sands” programs that it offers with port-of-call visits set for the Ports of Charleston, S.C., New York City, Norfolk, Va., New Orleans, Key West, Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas.

Passengers aboard Marella Discover enjoy top deck amenities before first sailing

(Photo: Canaveral Port Authority) 

Marella is now the sixth cruise line with at least one ship homeported at the Port, joining an impressive list of cruise lines that includes Carnival, Disney, MSC, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean.

Canaveral Fire Rescue Fireboat 2 and tugs escort Marella Discovery out of Port Canaveral on her inaugural voyage

(Photo: Canaveral Port Authority) 

The 866-foot-long Discovery has 915 cabins and has a gross tonnage of 69,130 tons. The ship also features a bevy of amenities as well, including an 800-seat Broadway Show Lounge, outdoor cinema, five-story atrium, mini-golf course, and rock-climbing wall to go along with seven restaurants and seven bars and an indoor and outdoor pool.

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Carnival Cruise Line and Port of Seattle Welcome Carnival Luminosa as Ship Embarks Guests from U.S. for First Time

Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy welcomed the first guests to board Carnival Luminosa from a U.S. port in Seattle today. The ship arrived at the Port of Seattle after a 23-day transpacific journey that began in Brisbane, Australia to begin a series of sailings to Alaska.

Carnival Luminosa is Carnival’s third ship sailing to Alaska this season and part of a deployment that will see 100,000 guests visit spectacular destinations that include Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, as well as Victoria, B.C., and the cruising of Tracy Arm Fjord. Carnival has seen an extraordinary response for its upcoming Alaska cruises, so to welcome guests and help kick off the season, Duffy held a special event at the Port of Seattle’s Pier 91 cruise terminal.

“Not only is Carnival Luminosa completing our Alaska deployment for this season, which was so successful last year after we expanded it to three ships that we decided to bring her all the way from Australia to do it again, but she’s also front and center in another important effort for us as well,” Duffy said. “Work starts today on getting Carnival Luminosa shore power ready so she can hook up to the port when she’s docked here in Seattle. Shore power is one of our overall sustainability initiatives and Carnival Luminosa is now part of that important investment in our future.”

Carnival expects the ship will be ready to plug in and operate on electric power while at the port of Seattle by early June. Once the work is complete, Carnival Luminosa will join her sister ships also deployed to Alaska this season that are already utilizing shore power – Carnival Spirit, which is also homeporting in Seattle, and Carnival Miracle, homeporting in San Francisco.

Carnival Luminosa is one of Carnival’s latest additions to the fleet, having joined the Carnival fleet in November of 2022 from a Carnival Corporation sister line, the ship underwent a series of refurbishments and began homeporting in Brisbane, Australia. Now, after the first-time cruising through U.S. waters, the ship is embarking guests in Seattle who will be some of the first from America to see and experience it. Retaining much of its beautiful European styling, the ship boasts a unique aesthetic and some exclusive features, such as a Cloud 9 Spa spanning two decks with one of the fleet’s most expansive thermal areas. Much like her sisters, the ship also features many guest-favorite Carnival venues, including Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and RedFrog Rum Bar, Piano Bar 88 and The Punchliner Comedy Club.

Next year, between two transpacific cruises that feature visits to Japan and Hawaii, Carnival Luminosa will again join Carnival Spirit to homeport in Seattle, operating seven-, eight- and 14-day sailings, and Carnival Miracle will return to San Francisco , where 10- and 11-day cruises are available. To see Alaska cruises currently open for sale, visit Carnival.com.

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Image Source, Port Canaveral

Image Source, MSC Cruises

Port Canaveral, FL – April 27, 2023 – Port Canaveral’s newest homeported ship, the MSC Cruises MSC Seaside has arrived to begin sailing three and four-night cruises to The Bahamas, and seven-night sailings to Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico, Belize. All sailings include stops at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

"We are excited to welcome the MSC Seaside to Port Canaveral, yet another beautiful ship in the MSC Cruises line up to call Port Canaveral home,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. "We are proud of our relationship with MSC Cruises, and delighted to be the homeport for this new vessel class. Our Port is setting the standard for excellence in the industry. We’re committed to delivering a world-class experience for all cruise guests."

In a traditional maritime ceremony, Kevin Markey, Chairman of Canaveral Port Authority and Port officials presented MSC Seaside Capt. Michele Di Mauro with a plaque commemorating the cruise ship's first call to the Port.

"The arrival of the MSC Seaside is another great milestone for Port Canaveral and the Space Coast region, further solidifying our position as the top cruise port in the world," said Canaveral Port Authority Chairman Kevin Markey. "We are committed to continuing our efforts to responsibly grow our Port to promote the economic growth and prosperity of our local community and the state of Florida."

MSC Cruises began year-round service from Port Canaveral in 2021 with the inaugural arrival of the MSC Divina. Recognizing the convenience of easy access for cruise guests and modern terminals and amenities that make it an excellent homeport for the cruise line, MSC Cruises added the MSC Meraviglia to the Port Canaveral rotation for U.S. sailings. MSC Meraviglia, now homeported in New York, returns to Port Canaveral weekly for provisioning calls.

“We built MSC Seaside specifically for Caribbean cruising, with an incredible amount of outdoor space and a sweeping waterfront promenade that allows guests to truly connect with the sea during their time on board,” said Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA. “It’s a privilege for MSC Cruises to play a role in Port Canaveral’s growth with the deployment of yet another large and modern ship in our U.S. fleet. MSC Seaside’s beautiful amenities go hand in hand with our international heritage and the natural beauty and sustainability of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, our private destination in The Bahamas, to represent our unique vision for Caribbean cruising. We’re thrilled to share that experience with guests sailing from Port Canaveral.”

The MSC Seaside offers a wide variety of impressive amenities, including a seafront promenade, two glass-floor catwalks, and panoramic elevators. Passengers sailing the Seaside will also have the opportunity to upgrade to MSC's exclusive Yacht Club or Aurea Spa cabin categories.

The Seaside boasts nine restaurants, including the Pan Asian Market Kitchen by Roy Yamaguchi, and 19 bars and lounges, including the Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar and Venchi 1878 Gelato & Creperie.

There is no shortage of entertainment options on the Seaside, with the Metropolitan Theater, Forest Aquaventure Park, two full-sized bowling alleys, and clubs for kids among a multitude of options. The ship's impressive sea views and outdoor spaces make the MSC Seaside a vacation experience for all ages.

The MSC Seaside, built in 2017, is a 1,060-foot Seaside-class cruise ship with a distinctive aft design and guest capacity for approximately 4,000 passengers double-occupancy.

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Hong Kong Returns to Its Position as Asia’s Cruise Hub with 160 ship calls from 16 cruise lines for Robust Restart of 2023 Cruise Season

Hong Kong (April 18, 2023) – The Hong Kong Tourism Board is seeing a strong comeback with international cruise ships berthing and homeporting in the city.  Since the beginning of 2023, Hong Kong has resecured the advantages that make it appealing for international cruise lines, including the restart of non-stop air from the US, signifying a full resumption of Hong Kong’s cruise scene and recognition as Asia’s cruise hub. Visitor arrivals in the first quarter of 2023 achieved about 30% of the average quarterly figure before the pandemic, according to the latest figures announced by Hong Kong Tourism Board.  

“For the restart of the 2023 cruise season, Hong Kong secured over 160 ship calls from 16 globally recognized cruise lines. This recovery signifies tremendous confidence in the destination by the cruise industry and their guests seeking a return to a favorite destination they can enjoy by land and sea,” said Hong Kong Tourism Board’s MICE & Cruise General Manager, Kenneth Wong.  

Silversea Cruises’ Silver Spirit sparked the start of the cruise season in Asia as the first international cruise line to return to Hong Kong in almost three years. “Hong Kong constitutes one of the most important ports in Asia for Silversea Cruises and our discerning guests, who appreciate the enriching experiences, the welcoming people, and the spectacular cityscape that awaits them on each call to the destination,” said Adam Radwanski, Silversea’s Managing Director, Asia Pacific.    

The visits and deployments from Silversea Cruises, TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and the year-round homeporting of Resorts World Cruises highlight the city’s potential for accommodating a variety of cruise products, as well as the flight network’s availability for development of fly-cruise turnaround itineraries for short-haul and long-haul markets. 

International airlines are driving visitors to Hong Kong with service resumption, including United Airlines’ nonstop service to and from Hong Kong, joining Cathay Pacific as the dominant air carriers from the U.S. 

To accommodate the vast growth in aviation, the Hong Kong International Airport is implementing an expansion plan for the three-runway system which when the project is completed, will be able to handle 30 million more passengers a year by 2030.    

Hong Kong has been a standout setting for cruise lines to develop new products and entice new clientele from the enormous Mainland market of 86 million people who zip in from cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area via High Speed Rail and the iconic Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the longest sea crossing in the world. 

According to Wong, “Hong Kong is an amazing setting for cruise guests to fully explore the region during pre and post cruise stays.” New developments that await cruise passengers include the new Hong Kong Palace Museum in Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Cultural District, with a collection of more than 900 priceless treasures from the Palace Museum in Beijing, and M+, Asia’s first truly global museum of contemporary visual culture. The iconic Peak Tram with panoramic views from Victoria Peak has been given a makeover, with new sixth-generation tram cars and a renovated terminal with full-immersion video experience.  

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