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Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Debuts Series of Firsts with New Multi-Million-Dollar Art Collection on Seven Seas Grandeur™ 

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Debuts Series of Firsts with New Multi-Million-Dollar Art Collection on Seven Seas Grandeur™ 

The 1,600-Piece Art Collection includes Multiple Picassos, a Nearly 40-Foot-Tall Hand-woven Tapestry and the First Fabergé Egg to Reside Permanently at Sea

 
 

MIAMI, October 25, 2023 – Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the world’s leading luxury cruise line, today unveils details of its latest multi-million-dollar art collection, to be displayed on board the line’s newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur™. The 1,600-piece collection, predominantly featuring contemporary art, took nearly two years to curate and commission, sourcing from artists and galleries worldwide. This awe-inspiring catalogue of works will debut when the new ship launches in November 2023.

As an added first at sea, Regent will be introducing a digital art tour - Art Experience - available through the new Regent Mobile App which will also be launched on Seven Seas Grandeur. The digital art tour will provide an immersive, interactive experience for guests to connect, not only with the artwork, but with the artist who created the piece. The tour will shine a light on works within central guest areas, including Rauschenberg, Matta, Sophie Elizabeth Thompson and Eduardo Arranz-Bravo. Using expert technology, luxury travelers will be able to scan select artworks via the app, and discover a film connecting them to the artist, their process, and their inspiration for the piece. The new Regent Mobile App will also allow guests on board to review the daily program guide Passages, view the shore excursion catalogue, all restaurant menus, and ship phone directory.

“With each new ship, our team works tirelessly to identify and source the most impressive array of art pieces, building a collection that would be enviable by most modern-day museums, to ensure our guests’ time onboard is as enriching and thought-provoking as their time on land,” said Andrea DeMarco, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “It is extremely rare to enjoy such personal access to artwork of this caliber, and now guests will be able to connect deeper with the art and artists they’ve fallen in love with onboard our ships through our first ever virtual art tour. Regent’s art-loving guests will find Seven Seas Grandeur to be one of most engrossing galleries they have ever explored.”

The highly anticipated art collection has been a topic of discussion since the exterior design of the first piece of art, a commissioned Fabergé Egg, ‘Journey in Jewels’, was unveiled last year. The first and only Fabergé Egg to reside permanently at sea, the interior design and mechanisms of this one-of-a-kind piece remain cloaked in mystery and will be revealed alongside the full art collection during Seven Seas Grandeur’s christening in Miami this December.

Earlier this year Regent Seven Seas Cruises announced that Sarah Fabergé, Founding Member of The Fabergé Heritage Council, and great-granddaughter of Peter Carl Fabergé, will serve as Godmother to Seven Seas Grandeur. One of Sarah’s first duties as Godmother will be to host art lovers on board Seven Seas Grandeur on a special Spotlight Voyage in July, featuring behind-the-scenes access to Fabergé through master classes and shoreside excursions.

A variety of notable works will join the commissioned Fabergé Egg as centerpieces of the Seven Seas Grandeur art collection, including a staggering nearly 40-foot-tall hand-woven tapestry, “The Enchanted Tree,” created by world-renowned Brazilian artist Walter Goldfarb. The close to tapestry will hang adjacent to the elevator wall in the ship’s lavish atrium, giving multiple vantage points of this breathtaking feat of intricately woven textiles.

Another exclusive piece in the collection features a custom-made bronze and hand-cast glass Bonsai Cherry Tree Sculpture by Savoy Studios, creating an experiential entrance to Pacific Rim, the ship’s pan-Asian specialty restaurant. The delicate installation contrasts with the Pacific Rim entrance pieces of a Tibetan Prayer Wheel and Mythical Dragon found on board Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendorrespectively.

Trees are an ongoing design theme for Seven Seas Grandeur, which can also be witnessed in the largest specialty restaurant at sea, Compass Rose. Once inside the restaurant, guests will sit under a canopy of interwoven crystal and wood-edged illuminated trees, giving the illusion of dining in an enchanted forest featuring thousands of individually placed crystal-faceted leaves, enveloping the restaurant in an awe-inspiring display.

Regent’s Art Director Sarah Hall Smith, spent close to two years piecing together the incredible art collection on board Seven Seas Grandeur, having also assisted it the curation of the collections on board sister ships Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer.

“Seven Seas Grandeur is inspired by the past, reimagined for the future and we’ve endeavored to mirror this with a fascinating onboard art collection,” said Sarah Hall Smith, Art Director for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “The artwork featured on Seven Seas Grandeur includes work from some of the most notable artists of our time, from Pablo Picasso to Eduardo Arranz-Bravo, as well as unique installations and features such as the largest hand-woven tapestry on board a Regent ship, a hand-cast glass Bonsai Cherry Tree Sculpture and first Fabergé egg to live permanently at sea.” 

Seven Seas Grandeur’s curated art collection features artists from all over the world across dozens of mediums including sculpture, original paintings, photographs, and more.

Highlights include:

  • Pablo Picasso (Lithograph and Linocut). “Toros y Toreros”, “Antes de picar al toro” and “Picador picando al toro, con matador al quite”

  • Three Picasso works are on display in Prime 7 on deck 10. From the colorful costumes and movements of the matadors to the majestic power of the bulls, each painting offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Spain. These artworks are windows into a world that is both beautiful and dangerous, where tradition and spectacle collide in a display of courage and skill.

Fabergé: “Journey in Jewels”

  • “Journey in Jewels” will be displayed in the Atrium in Deck 5 and embodies the Regent sailing experience with a cascading waterfall of ocean greens and subtle turquoise throughout its three-tiered base, while the outer shell features soothing deep blue waves which break into a sea spray of pearls. The outer egg ‘shell’ is comprised of seven blades, representing the seven seas, which will unfurl to reveal a surprise hidden inside, details of which are being kept as a closely guarded secret until Seven Seas Grandeur’s christening.     

    Savoy Studios: “Bonsai Cherry Tree”

  • Exclusively created by Savoy Studios is a custom-made bronze and hand-cast glass Bonsai Cherry Tree sculpture, creating an experiential entrance to Pacific Rim, the ship’s pan-Asian specialty restaurant on Deck 5. 

and much more!

The ship itself is a work of art. In addition to a number of notable design touchpoints, Seven Seas Grandeur, the sister ship to the acclaimed Seven Seas Explorer® and Seven Seas Splendor®, will exemplify Regent’s 30-year heritage of perfection with unrivaled space, unparalleled service, and transformative experiences that will begin the moment guests step on board. 

The new Regent Mobile App can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play starting in December 2023, providing guests sailing on board Seven Seas Grandeur with exclusive access to Art Experience.


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Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Reveals New Spa Experiences On Seven Seas Grandeur

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Reveals New Spa Experiences On Seven Seas Grandeur

MIAMI, August 15, 2023 – Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the world’s leading luxury ocean cruise line, has revealed new and exclusive spa treatments that will debut on board Seven Seas Grandeur™, setting sail November 2023. The ship’s Serene Spa & Wellness™ experience will enhance relaxation at sea with an indulgent treatment menu that integrates best-in-class techniques and luxury ingredients from around the world, including new treatments utilizing the restorative power of an amber and quartz crystal bed, and an advanced treatment table for a Zero Gravity Wellness Massage.

In addition, a new treatment – the Tahitian Hydration Ritual –  has been created exclusively for those staying in the palatial, 4,443 square foot Regent Suite, which can be enjoyed in the suite’s very own private spa. Regent also revealed new details about the ship’s Serene Spa & Wellness features and design, including a new relaxation room.

“We are thrilled to expand our Serene Spa & Wellness offerings exclusively for our valued guests on board Seven Seas Grandeur,” said Andrea DeMarco, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “Not only can guests enjoy the relaxation of Serene Spa & Wellness services already found across the world’s most luxurious fleet, but they can now be pampered with new, innovative treatments, making their unrivaled experience even more lavish and indulgent.”

New and Innovative Serene Spa & Wellness Treatments for Seven Seas Grandeur

Exclusively for Seven Seas Grandeur’s Serene Spa & Wellness, two groundbreaking treatments harness the power of a pioneering amber and quartz crystal bed.

Guests seeking complete rejuvenation can book a Hot Mineral Body Boost to alleviate muscular pain and remove toxins by stimulating every cell in the body, while the Poultice-Powered Muscle Release works away sore, aching muscles with an invigorating treatment that targets tension areas with vibrational energy, finishing with a restorative facial massage. A nourishing amber balm used in the Hot Mineral Body Boost and the unique eucalyptus, juniper, amber and quartz poultice utilized in the Poultice-Powered Muscle Release works with the extraordinary amber and quartz crystal bed, energizing tired bodies and elasticizing the skin.

For a completely unique experience, the Zero Gravity Wellness Massage is the next generation of innovative wellness. Producing a zero-gravity effect, the body is suspended on an advanced treatment table that allows for ergonomic workflows and a seamless series of sophisticated techniques. Eight table positions enable effective and precise reach of every muscle group in a choreographed massage, focusing on the back and main muscles to release tension and improve body mechanics.

All three new treatments on board Seven Seas Grandeur are 75 minutes long and priced at $299 per guest.

For the ultimate in-suite spa experience, guests staying in The Most Exclusive Address at Sea™, the Regent Suite, will have access to a lavish new treatment. The Tahitian Hydration Ritual is a 75-minute treatment that transports guests to the South Pacific. Warmed monoi oil infuses frangipani flowers with pure coconut oil, and melts into the skin during the body wrap treatment. Elevating the standard of relaxing ambiance, Seven Seas Grandeur’s Regent Suite features an impeccably designed master bathroom complete with personal sauna, steam room, treatment area and unlimited complimentary treatments.

Seven Seas Grandeur’s Serene Spa & Wellness Features and Design

Relaxation Room

Serene Spa & Wellness on board Seven Seas Grandeur, designed by the award-winning Studio DADO, offers a multi-sensory experience choreographed to help guests relax at every turn. The spa’s entry experience sets the tone by introducing a floral motif carried throughout the space. The delicate design suggests rebirth and rejuvenation, and the intricate, lacey details create a sense of elegance and intimacy found in the world’s finest spas. Throughout, architectural details – metal canopies, lantern niches and the undulating lines of the walls – remind guests that, while this may be one of the most luxurious and relaxing experiences, they are at sea and surrounded by the ocean.

Treatment rooms are rich and inviting, while the relaxation room offers a sense of privacy and enchantment, as though guests are inside a topiary maze. Outside, three whirlpools and a lounge area provide contemplative and calming views in the fresh sea air.

Beauty Salon

As with her sister ships Seven Seas Splendor® and Seven Seas Explorer®, Seven Seas Grandeur also offers guests the healing, detoxifying and tension-releasing power of the Serene Spa & Wellness Hydrothermal Suite, allowing spa-goers to relax before or after spa treatments and enjoy Regent’s multisensory aromatherapy steam room, chill room, infrared sauna and experiential showers.

Finally, guests can access time-honored beauty secrets enhanced by technology and innovation to deliver advanced hair and nail care in the beauty salon. 

The Serene Spa & Wellness Experience

Emphasizing the unrivaled experience Regent is known for, Serene Spa & Wellness found on board all five, soon to be six, Regent ships, is a holistic journey of health and well-being that extends beyond the physical spa, with fitness classes, nutritious and delicious cuisine selections, plus wellness themed shore excursions.

Fitness experts at Fitness by Serene Spa & Wellness lead popular exercise classes, such as Pilates, yoga and meditation and are available to offer advice and demonstrate the use of fitness equipment. Equipment includes spinning bikes, dumbbells, treadmills, Technogym® strength machines, workout mats and step benches and one-on-one training.

Guests may savor the best of world cuisine with Serene Spa & Wellness Selections in many restaurants on board. These culinary dishes offer an extensive array of innovative options that inspire healthy living, featuring exquisite dishes influenced by a myriad of global fares including delectable plant-based cuisine.

On land, Serene Spa & Wellness Tours enhance wellness through immersive and restorative shore excursions where guests can, for example, soak in mineral-rich thermal springs in Rome, Italy, or balance themselves in a yoga class overlooking the picturesque seaside town of Taormina, Sicily. 


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ALL-NEW NORWEGIAN VIVA DEBUTS IN EUROPE AND WELCOMES FIRST GUESTS ABOARD

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ALL-NEW NORWEGIAN VIVA DEBUTS IN EUROPE AND WELCOMES FIRST GUESTS ABOARD

- Norwegian Cruise Line Introduces Its Newest Ship, the Second of the Groundbreaking Prima Class -

- Norwegian Viva to Homeport in Four Bucket-List Mediterranean Destinations This Summer -

MIAMI, Aug. 10, 2023 /CNW/ -- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, with a 56-year history of breaking boundaries, today welcomed the very first guests to sail aboard the all-new Norwegian Viva, the Company's highly anticipated new ship and second of the Prima Class, as it embarked on its maiden voyage from Venice (Trieste), Italy.

Making a grand debut in Europe today, Norwegian Viva departed for its first spectacular nine-day journey through the Mediterranean, taking guests from Venice (Trieste), Italy to Lisbon, Portugal with stops in some of Europe's most incredible seaside destinations including Salerno, off Italy's picturesque Amalfi Coast; Cannes along France's stunning Cote d'Azur; and Ibiza, Spain in the Balearic Islands, among other superb destinations. Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December for a season in the Caribbean.

"This summer, our guests will have the opportunity to explore Europe aboard our newest magnificent vessel, Norwegian Viva, while enjoying its well-appointed spacious design, elevated experiences, expansive culinary offerings and signature Norwegian Cruise Line hospitality provided by the best crew in the industry," said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.  "Norwegian Viva's tagline is 'Live it Up,' and I have no doubt our guests will be doing just that while they cruise to some of the liveliest cities in Europe and the Caribbean during the ship's inaugural season."

Mirroring the design of the award-winning sister ship Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva features standout onboard experiences including the Viva Speedway—the three-level racetrack; Indulge Food Hall, an upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush; and NCL's industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, the Metropolitan Bar.

Norwegian Viva's upscale and spacious design is elevated by an expansive array of artwork across the ship, including The Concourse, a multi-million-dollar outdoor sculpture garden, and a dynamic, interactive 52-foot-wide art piece by contemporary British digital artist Dominic Harris. Exclusively created for Norwegian Viva, Harris' "Every Wing Has a Silver Lining" digital art piece is on display at Metropolitan Bar and dynamically responds throughout the day to passing movement, creating engagement with the viewer.  Norwegian Viva also features a world-class entertainment lineup, headlined by the side-splitting Tony Award®-nominated comedy "Beetlejuice The Musical" and the iconic game show "Press Your Luck LIVE," an immersive experience where the audience participates to win incredible grand prizes.

Following the ship's maiden voyage, Norwegian Viva will sail a series of Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries, before its official Christening ceremony in Miami on Nov. 28, 2023. Luis Fonsi, Latin GRAMMY® award-winning artist and godfather to Norwegian Viva, will attend the celebration to officially name the ship and will be joined by The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; "Saturday Night Live" cast member and Miami-native Marcello Hernandez; and singer Pedro Capó. The ship will homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico for a season of Caribbean voyages from December 2023 through March 2024 with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. John's, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

In May 2024, Norwegian Viva will return to Europe, where its Mediterranean itineraries offer an unmatched opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Europe. With an average of 10.5 hours in port, travelers will have more time to explore with fewer days at sea. Guests can unpack once, all while enjoying the ease and comfort of their world-class travel accommodations and the ability to wake up in a new destination as the ship transports them from one spectacular European city to another.


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NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE ANNOUNCES 2023 'GIVING JOY' CAMPAIGN WINNERS

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NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE ANNOUNCES 2023 'GIVING JOY' CAMPAIGN WINNERS

- The Company Awards 20 Outstanding Teachers Across the U.S. with a Free Seven-Day Cruise -

- Top Three Grand Prize Winners to Also Attend Exclusive Norwegian Viva Christening Sailing from Miami -

MIAMI, July 25, 2023 /CNW/ -- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced the 20 winners of its fourth annual Norwegian's Giving Joy® contest, the Brand's annual recognition program that has been celebrating teachers across North America since 2019 for their hard work and relentless dedication.

Each of the 20 winning educators won a free seven-day voyage for two for itineraries sailing through 2024 and embarking from the U.S. and Canada. In addition, the top three grand prize winners are invited to attend the exclusive four-day christening voyage for Norwegian Viva, the second ship in the Brand's all-new Prima Class, debuting August 2023. During the christening event in Miami on Nov. 28, 2023 they will also have the opportunity to enjoy exclusive performances by  five-time Latin GRAMMY® winning artist and Godfather of Norwegian Viva, Luis Fonsi,  along with other leading Latin entertainers, including The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; "Saturday Night Live" cast member and Miami-native, Marcello Hernandez; and singer, Pedro Capó to celebrate the ship's milestone.

"On behalf of all of us at Norwegian Cruise Line, we congratulate this year's winners and nominees who have gone above and beyond to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to their calling as educators, and in doing so have left a lasting positive impact on their students, schools and broader communities," said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. "We look forward to welcoming this year's winners aboard for a well-deserved cruise vacation."

Inspired by Norwegian's Giving Joy program and moved by the stories of the incredible teachers, this year, NCL's beverage partner, Coca-Cola®, has donated roundtrip airfare from within the continental United States for each winner and their guest as they plan their vacation with NCL. Additionally, all 20 winning educators will be awarded with a complimentary virtual training session by the Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF) to explore their K-12 education resources using Dr. Harvey's captivating marine art as an anchor. This exploration will incorporate a unique blend of science and art, allowing educators to dive into the wonders of the ocean, and help foster the next era of marine conservationists. 

Norwegian's 2023 Giving Joy contest drew support for over 3,400 teachers across the U.S. and Canada and garnered over hundreds of thousands of votes with winners from California, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington. The grand prize winners are:

  • Ryan Price from Buckingham Collegiate Charter Academy in Vacaville, Calif.

  • Carolyn Reardon from James Otis Elementary School in Chicago, Ill.

  • Angelo Mirante from Lakewood High School in Arlington, Wash.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Giving Joy program highlights the synergies between travel and education, celebrating and commemorating the commitment that teachers demonstrate in enlightening young minds. Since 2019, Norwegian's Giving Joy contest has awarded over 250 educators with a free cruise vacation and donated over $350,000 to local schools and teachers with the support of its brand partners.

To learn more about the 20 winners and their heart-warming stories, click here.

Grand prize winners of Norwegian's Giving Joy program will have the opportunity to experience Norwegian Viva, the second of six vessels in the company's groundbreaking Prima Class and sister ship to the award-winning Norwegian Prima. The elevated offerings of the Prima Class prioritize the guest experience and raise the bar on cruising through world-class cuisine, the brand's most spacious design yet, and stellar onboard activities including the Viva Speedway—the three-level racetrack. Norwegian Viva features many of the outstanding onboard experiences that makes the Prima Class in a league of its own including Indulge Food Hall, the upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush; and NCL's industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, the Metropolitan Bar. Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list-worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December 2023 for a season of Caribbean itineraries.


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GLOBAL MUSIC SENSATION LUIS FONSI NAMED GODFATHER OF NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE'S NEWEST SHIP, NORWEGIAN VIVA

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GLOBAL MUSIC SENSATION LUIS FONSI NAMED GODFATHER OF NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE'S NEWEST SHIP, NORWEGIAN VIVA

–  The Multiplatinum Star Behind Multiple Hits Including "Despacito" Will Perform and Bless the Ship at Official Naming Ceremony in Miami on Nov. 28, 2023 –

–  The Star-Studded Christening Event to Feature Performances by Latin Celebrity Superstars Including Paulina Rubio, Marcello Hernandez and Pedro Capó –

MIAMI, June 23, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, announced today that GRAMMY® nominated, and five-time Latin GRAMMY® winning singer, songwriter, musician and producer, Luis Fonsi, will serve as the godfather of its newest ship, Norwegian Viva, the second ship of the Brand's groundbreaking Prima Class. The ship will be christened in Miami before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico this fall.

Best known for his extensive list of radio hits including the award-winning, global chart-topping hit, "Despacito," which was featured on Billboard's "Hot Latin Song" list for a record-breaking 56 consecutive weeks, Puerto Rican-born Fonsi will fulfill the longstanding maritime tradition of blessing and officially naming Norwegian Viva at the Nov. 28, 2023 christening ceremony in Miami, the "Cruise Capital of the World." The "Live it Up!" theme of Norwegian Viva will continue throughout the evening, with a lineup of leading Latin entertainers joining Fonsi, including The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; "Saturday Night Live" cast member and Miami-native, Marcello Hernandez; and singer, Pedro Capó, all of which will deliver exclusive performances throughout the night.

"We are thrilled to welcome Latin music icon Luis Fonsi to the NCL family as Godfather of Norwegian Viva and to join us as we christen our newest ship," said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Miami, our hometown, is immersed in Latin culture, and we want to celebrate Norwegian Viva's debut with an infusion of Latin talent headlined by Luis. As a native Puerto Rican, who is also based in Miami, he brings people together from around the world with his energy, positivity and music, making him the perfect complement to the vibrant energy of Norwegian Viva. We cannot wait for him to join us as we celebrate this milestone moment later this year."

On Nov. 28, 2023, Luis Fonsi will officiate the ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle on the ship's bow to bid the vessel and its travelers good fortune on their voyage, a fundamental nautical tradition customary for any ship launch. After completing its christening voyage, Norwegian Viva will be the newest ship to homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico upon arrival on Dec. 15, 2023. It will offer a variety of seven-day Caribbean voyages through April 2024 with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St John's, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, before returning for a summer season of cruises to Europe from Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Lisbon, Portugal; and Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice (Trieste), Italy.

"I am so honored to be named Godfather of NCL's newest ship, Norwegian Viva, and look forward to sharing her with the amazing people of Puerto Rico, a community that truly represents the spirit of 'live it up'" said Luis Fonsi, award-winning global artist. "Growing up on an island, the ocean plays such an important part in my life, and there is nowhere else I'd rather be. Cruising provides such an incredible vacation experience, and I cannot wait to christen this incredible ship and to introduce her to the world."

Norwegian Viva is the second of six vessels in the company's groundbreaking Prima Class and sister ship to the award-winning Norwegian Prima. The elevated offerings of the Prima Class prioritize the guest experience and raise the bar on cruising through world-class cuisine, the brand's most spacious design yet, and stellar onboard activities including the Viva Speedway— the three-level racetrack. Norwegian Viva features many of the outstanding onboard experiences that makes the Prima Class in a league of its own including Indulge Food Hall, the upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush; and NCL's industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, the Metropolitan Bar. Debuting in August 2023, Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list-worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December 2023 for a season of Caribbean itineraries.

To commemorate this exciting partnership and celebrate the all-star entertainment lineup to be featured at Norwegian Viva's christening event, NCL has put together a Live it Up! Spotify playlist inspired by top Latin music superstars.


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Norwegian Epic to Homeport at Port Canaveral Starting December 2023

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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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NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE IS 'GIVING JOY' AND AWARDING FREE CRUISES TO EDUCATORS IN CELEBRATION OF TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

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NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE IS 'GIVING JOY' AND AWARDING FREE CRUISES TO EDUCATORS IN CELEBRATION OF TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

- 20 Educators from the U.S. and Canada will be Awarded a Seven-Day Voyage and the Top Three Grand Prize Winners Will Have the Chance to Sail on the All-New Norwegian Viva -

- Norwegian's Giving Joy® Contest is Now Open and Accepting Nominations at www.nclgivingjoy.com from May 8 - June 9, 2023 -

MIAMI, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ -- In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week (May 8 – 12, 2023), and the countless educators across North America, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced the launch of its fourth annual award-winning Giving Joy recognition program, which provides teachers with free cruises and the chance to set sail on Norwegian Viva, the Company's newest groundbreaking ship.

The annual program serves to shine a light on educators, the unsung heroes of every community, and their relentless dedication to inspiring students and bringing joy to the classroom every day. To date, Norwegian's Giving Joy has awarded over 230 educators with a free cruise vacation and donated over $350,000 to local schools and teachers with the support of its brand partners. This year, NCL will award the top 20 teachers across the U.S. and Canada1 with the most votes a seven-day cruise for two. In addition, the top three grand prize winners will be invited to attend the exclusive Christening voyage of Norwegian Viva, the second vessel from the all-new Prima Class, later this year.

"We are proud to once again launch our Giving Joy campaign and to continue to celebrate the very important role teachers play in our community and for our youth, as well as to reinforce the connection between travel and education," said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. "We believe educators are a powerful source of inspiration, just like travel, where both aim to broaden perspectives, connect people around the world and bring awareness to different cultures and experiences."

Now through June 9, 2023, NCL is encouraging the public to nominate certified or accredited teachers in the U.S. and Canada who have made an impact in their life and inspire students each and every day by visiting www.nclgivingjoy.com.

On Norwegian's Giving Joy campaign, Shannon Cooke 2022 Giving Joy winner and teacher at Hunters Point Community Middle School in Long Island, NY said, "This was such a great experience. It was amazing to meet teachers from all over North America who shared very similar goals and visions of teaching. When I returned from my NCL cruise, I was able to incorporate my trip to the ancient ruins in Mexico into our sixth grade Civilizations unit."

Herrera continued, "My wife is a second-grade teacher, and I see first-hand the passion that goes behind connecting with and motivating students each and every day.  It is an honor to award these hard-working educators and commend them for their dedication to their students. We look forward to welcoming them on board our ships and providing them with an unforgettable and well-deserved cruise vacation."

To nominate a beloved teacher, to vote, and for the contest terms and conditions, please visit www.nclgivingjoy.com/.


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Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings to Offer Starlink High-Speed Internet On Board Fleet

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Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings to Offer Starlink High-Speed Internet On Board Fleet

 Enhanced Connectivity at Sea Aligns with Company’s Commitment to Continuously Improve Guest Experience

MIAMI, April 06, 2023 -- Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. A leading global cruise company which operates the Norwegian Cruise Line (“NCL”), Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands, today announced its plan to improve connectivity for guests and crew at sea by offering SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet on its ships. Using advanced low earth orbit satellites, Starlink delivers industry leading broadband internet connectivity which will improve the capacity, speed and reliability of internet on board. The Company is currently testing Starlink, beginning with Norwegian Breakaway, with the intent to rollout this game-changing technology across its entire world class fleet in a phased manner.

“We are thrilled to offer Starlink on board our ships to improve internet connectivity at sea. This initiative is a testament to our continuous quest to find new and innovative ways to enhance the experience for both guests and crew while sailing on our award-winning brands,” said Harry Sommer, president and CEO-elect of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “Ensuring that this technology meets our high standards of excellence for our guests is incredibly important to us, which is why we are introducing this cutting-edge technology across our fleet in a phased manner. Once deployed, guests and crew will have a faster and more reliable method to stay connected with friends and family including by sharing in real-time the incredible memories they create while at sea.”

If trials are successful, the Company is targeting to equip 7 additional vessels with Starlink by year-end, including all three of the Company’s exciting new additions this year, Oceania Cruises’ Vista, Norwegian Viva and Regent’s Seven Seas Grandeur. A comprehensive rollout plan is under development and details regarding timeline and availability on specific ships will be communicated once finalized. In addition to enhancing the guest and crew experience, the extra bandwidth will also allow for more flexibility for onboard services and improve the ship-to-shore connection for operational needs.


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ALL-NEW NORWEGIAN PRIMA COMPLETES FIRST U.S. VOYAGE FROM NEW YORK CITY

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Norwegian Cruise Line’s Cutting-Edge Vessel to Sail from the Big Apple

Offering Roundtrip Sailings to the Caribbean Starting March 2023

NEW YORK (Oct. 10, 2022)Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced the completion of Norwegian Prima’s first U.S. voyage, which sailed roundtrip from New York City, visiting Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada from Oct. 6-10, 2022.

As NCL’s newest vessel in the Brand’s 18-ship fleet, Norwegian Prima, made her grand U.S. debut in New York City on Oct. 6, 2022 following a historic launch as the first major cruise ship to be christened in Reykjavik, Iceland. For the first time in the U.S., Norwegian Prima welcomed more than 2,400 guests who enjoyed unparalleled elevated experiences only available on NCL’s Prima Class, including the world’s only and largest three-level racetrack at sea with the Prima Speedway, the Brand’s first upscale Food Hall, Indulge, and The Metropolitan, the cruise industry’s first sustainable cocktail bar featuring responsibly crafted zero-waste cocktails prepared with surplus ingredients.

“As a native New Yorker this city is dear to me as well as to our Company, where NCL has been sailing from the Big Apple since 1991, so we are thrilled that our newest ship, Norwegian Prima, completed her first U.S. voyage in New York City,” said Norwegian Cruise Line President and Chief Executive Officer Harry Sommer. “We are very excited to show travelers all that Norwegian Prima has to offer, including more wide-open spaces, thoughtful design and elevated service that will exceed guest expectations.”

Norwegian Prima is the first of six ships in the Brand’s groundbreaking Prima Class. At 965 feet (294 meters long) and more than 143,535 tons with capacity for 3,100 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Prima offers the highest staffing levels and space ratio of any contemporary or premium cruise ship. She also boasts the largest variety of suite categories available at sea as well as a redefined The Haven by Norwegian, NCL’s ultra-premium keycard only access ship-within-a-ship concept. Her variety of recreational activities including the fastest slides at sea - The Rush and The Drop - and the Prima Speedway, provide guests with adrenaline-pumping moments. Spaces like Ocean Boulevard, the 44,000 square foot outdoor walkway which wraps around the entire ship; The Concourse, which boasts a multi-million dollar outdoor sculpture garden; and expansive pool decks and infinity style pools at Infinity Beach, offer guests a chance to sit back and relax.

Norwegian Cruise Line, known for its world-class, Broadway-caliber entertainment, premiered Tony Award®-nominated musical “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical” on Norwegian Prima during her christening voyage. The headlining act is an 85-minute immersive production and a first-at-sea experience where the theater itself transforms into a full disco and guests can become a part of the show and dance to Summer’s all-time fan favorite medleys. Further entertainment highlights on board include “Noise Boys,” an award-winning beat boxing experience produced by Nic Doodson, creator of Choir of Man, NCL’s best-rated entertainment show to date and currently residing on Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Escape. To learn more about all Norwegian Prima offers, please click here.

After completing her first set of revenue voyages from New York City, visiting warm-weather destinations including Bermuda, Virginia Beach, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Puerto Rico, Norwegian Prima will return to the Big Apple to offer roundtrip sailings to Bermuda starting March 28, 2023 through May 14, 2023, before returning to Europe sailing all summer from Reykjavik, Iceland and Southampton, United Kingdom, making buck-list stops in some of the most beautiful northern European port destination throughout Iceland and Norway.


 
 
 

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LEAKED Information On Norwegian Cruise Line New Ship!

I will NEVER look at junk mail the same way!

Have you ever received snail mail for discounts and promotions from cruise lines in your mailbox? Norwegian Cruise line is one in particular that I have received numerous times previously. They get your address likely from your previous sailing and they send you what the post office calls, “media-mail”. Here lies the problem with this old-school way of marketing.

Norwegians newest cruise ship’s name and itineraries for its 2nd ship in the Prima class have been leaked. A flyer marketing campaign was released for distribution by the United States Postal Service to previous cruisers.

The campaign discloses the name of the new ship, Norwegian Viva, and the reverse side shares the itineraries.

Live it Up Campaign

WantDestinations in Northern Europe June 2023- August 2023, Eastern Caribbean Dec 2023- March 2024, And the Mediterranean in 2023-October 2023

A big whoopsie, or was it intentional?

My first thought about this leak of not only the name or their brand new ship but also the itineraries. How does something like this happen?

Truth be told the cruise industry has had a few rough weeks with additional cancellations and voyages ending mid-cruise.

This could have been an interesting and unconventional way to “stir the pot” so to speak. Norwegian may have potentially released the flyers to the United States Post office early, prior to a proper announcement to simply generate a positive buzz. Perhaps they feared that the current climate wouldn’t generate enough publicity if they had done a proper announcement.

Let’s face it, either way: leaked or intentional… we are talking about it!

Norwegian’s Response

A tweet last week from the cruise line shows a video hyping up an announcement that was scheduled for tomorrow, January 12th. Using the name tag line “Live it Up”. We will wait to hear from Norwegian Cruise Line and see what they say in the nearest hours and days about this for more! Currently, the ship isn’t available for booking but likely will be now very soon.


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A Partnership That Will Get Us Cruising Again, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian to Partner on Health Protocols

Leading Public Health Experts to Oversee Development of Enhanced Cruise Line Health and Safety Standards

"Healthy Sail Panel" comprises top experts in public health, infectious disease, biosecurity, hospitality and maritime operations

Cruise industry leaders Royal Caribbean Group and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.  announced a collaboration to develop enhanced cruise health and safety standards in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The companies have asked Governor Mike Leavitt and Dr. Scott Gottlieb to serve as co-chairs of a newly formed group of experts called the "Healthy Sail Panel." The panel is tasked with collaboratively developing recommendations for cruise lines to advance their public health response to COVID-19, improve safety, and achieve readiness for the safe resumption of operations.

The expert panel has been working for nearly a month and will offer its initial recommendations by the end of August. The cruise lines said its work will be "open source," and could be freely adopted by any company or industry that would benefit from the group's scientific and medical insights.

"This unprecedented disease requires us to develop unprecedented standards in health and safety," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. "Bringing aboard these respected experts to guide us forward demonstrates our commitment to protecting our guests, our crews and the communities we visit."

"We compete for the vacationing consumer's business every day, but we never compete on health and safety standards," said Frank Del Rio, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. "While the cruise industry has always had rigorous health standards, the unique challenges posed by COVID-19 provide an opportunity to raise the bar even higher."

"Health and safety are the highest priority for all CLIA cruise line members as demonstrated by this initiative on the part of two of our largest members. We commend this and parallel efforts of all of our members, large and small, who are working tirelessly to develop appropriate protocols based on input from health authorities and medical experts in the U.S. and abroad," said Kelly Craighead, president and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Fain and Del Rio said they initiated the panel to assure the plans they will submit to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other regulators apply the best available public health, science and engineering insights. The work of the panel will be shared with the entire industry and regulators.

"In convening the Healthy Sail Panel, we sought the participation of a diverse group of leading experts in areas of science and public health that are directly relevant to the considerations listed by the No Sail Order," said

Governor Leavitt. "We view our work as a profoundly important public health effort. The health and safety of passengers, crew, and the communities that cruise ships visit will be the principal focus of this project."

Dr. Gottlieb said, "We know that the public health issues that must be addressed are complex, and in some areas, tackling them will require novel approaches. Our goal in assembling this team of leading experts was to develop best practices that can improve safety and provide a roadmap for reducing the risks of COVID-19."

The panel is co-chaired by Governor Leavitt, former Secretary of the U.S. Department Health and Human Services (HHS), and Dr. Scott Gottlieb, former commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The panel's members are globally recognized experts from various disciplines, including public health, infectious disease, biosecurity, hospitality and maritime operations.

The members of the expert panel are:

Governor Mike Leavitt

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Mike Leavitt was a three term Governor of Utah and served as Administrator of the EPA and Secretary of HHS under President George W. Bush. He is the founder of Leavitt Partners, a firm that provides investment support, data and analytics, member-based alliances, and direct services to clients to support decision-making strategies in the value economy.

Dr. Scott Gottlieb

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Dr. Scott Gottlieb was the Commissioner of the FDA from 2017-2019 and served as the agency's Deputy Commissioner for Medical and Scientific Affairs from 2005-2007. He is a physician trained in internal medicine and is currently a resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.

Helene Gayle M.D., MPH

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Dr. Gayle is CEO of the Chicago Community Trust, one of the nation's leading community foundations. Prior to this role, for almost a decade, she was president and CEO of CARE, a leading international humanitarian organization. An expert on global development, humanitarian and health issues, Dr. Gayle spent 20 years with the CDC, working primarily on HIV/AIDS. She worked at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, directing programs on HIV/AIDS and other global health issues. She also launched the McKinsey Social Initiative (now McKinsey.org), a nonprofit that builds partnerships for social impact. Dr. Gayle serves on public company and nonprofit boards, including The Coca-Cola Company, Colgate-Palmolive Company, the Brookings Institution, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, New America, the ONE Campaign, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and the Economic Club of Chicago. She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the American Public Health Association, the National Academy of Medicine, the National Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Julie Gerberding, M.D., MPH 

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Dr. Julie L. Gerberding is Executive Vice President and Chief Patient Officer for Merck, leading all aspects of strategic communications, global public policy, population health and patient engagement.

A former head of the CDC and a world-renowned public health expert, Dr. Gerberding is deeply committed to achieving sustainable global health impact and tackling some of the most challenging health priorities of our time. This includes addressing critical issues such as affordable access to important therapies, advocating for health policies that promote and sustain innovation of new medicines and vaccines, and improving maternal mortality through the Merck for Mothers program — a public-private partnership helping to meet the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal to reduce maternal mortality.

Prior to joining Merck, Dr. Gerberding served as the Director of the CDC from 2002-2009 and was the first female to hold that position. While at the agency, she led more than 40 emergency responses against crises such as anthrax, SARS, bird flu, food-borne outbreaks and natural disasters. Previously, Dr. Gerberding was a tenured faculty member in Infectious Diseases at the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF). She continues as an Adjunct Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at UCSF.

Julie Gerberding, M.D., MPH 

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Dr. Steven Hinrichs is Professor and Chair in the Department of Pathology and Microbiology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha and the Director of the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory (NPHL), and Director of the University of Nebraska Center for Biosecurity. In his position as laboratory director he has been responsible for the development of a statewide program for the rapid identification of biological agents of mass destruction. He is principal investigator of multiple national awards from the Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) and the CDC and the U.S. Department of Defense for the development of an outreach program to extend training and expertise in the early recognition of biological warfare agents. Dr. Hinrichs received his M.D. from the University of North Dakota and is board certified in Anatomical and Clinical Pathology. His research laboratory focuses on molecular diagnostics and the role of viruses in cancer. Dr. Hinrichs has published over 130 papers in basic science and medical journals.

Michael Osterholm, M.D., Ph.D

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Michael Osterholm is one of the nation's foremost experts in public health, infectious disease and biosecurity. As the director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota, he is an international leader on the world's preparedness for pandemics. He has led numerous investigations into internationally important disease outbreaks, including foodborne diseases, hepatitis B in health care settings, and HIV infection in healthcare workers, and he is a frequent consultant to the World Health Organization, the National Institutes of Health, the FDA, the U.S. Department of Defense and the CDC. From 2001 to 2005, Dr. Osterholm served as a special advisor to the Secretary of HHS on issues related to bioterrorism and public health preparedness. From June 2018 through May 2019, he served as a Science Envoy for Health Security on behalf of the U.S. Department of State. He has also been appointed to the National Science Advisory Board on Biosecurity and the World Economic Forum's Working Group on Pandemics, among other prominent advisory positions.

Stephen Ostroff, M.D.

 
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Dr. Ostroff brings years of experience in public health, having served at high level positions at the FDA and CDC. He was the Acting Commissioner of the FDA from 2015-2016, and before that served as the FDA's chief scientist. Ostroff joined the FDA in 2013 as chief medical officer in the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition and senior public health advisor to FDA's Office of Foods and Veterinary Medicine. Prior to that he served as deputy director of the National Center for Infectious Diseases at the CDC, where he was also acting director of CDC's Select Agent Program. While at the CDC he focused on emerging infectious diseases, food safety, and coordination of complex outbreak response. He retired from the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service at the rank of Rear Admiral (Assistant Surgeon General). Ostroff was also the director of the Bureau of Epidemiology and acting physician general for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and has consulted internationally on public health projects in South Asia and Latin America. Ostroff graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 1981 and completed residencies in internal medicine at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and preventive medicine at CDC.

William Rutala, Ph.D, M.S., MPH

 
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Dr. Rutala has experience medically managing a variety of diseases and extensive experience studying epidemiology and virology, particularly managing outbreaks and emerging pathogens. Dr. Rutala's research interests are the etiology and prevention of healthcare-associated infections with a special focus on disinfection and sterilization of reusable medical and surgical devices (e.g., endoscopes, surgical instruments). Other areas of active research include contribution of the hospital environment to disease transmission, hand hygiene, preventing transmission of infectious agents, including multiply-drug resistant organisms, prevention of healthcare-associated Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, investigation of healthcare-associated outbreaks, and new and emerging pathogens in healthcare.

Kate Walsh, Ph.D 

 
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Kate Walsh is the Dean at the School of Hotel Administration at Cornell University and E.M. Statler Professor. A professor of management, she is a leader in education for the global hospitality industry; and a renowned expert in organizational service design, leadership and career development, as well as the impact of strategic human capital investments. In addition to authoring and contributing to books, Dr. Walsh's articles have appeared in numerous research outlets. She has over 20 years of academic experience, including in her current role as dean.

In addition, Dean Walsh holds extensive industry knowledge from serving as the former director of training and development for Nikko Hotels International, corporate training manager for the former Bristol Hotels, and senior auditor for Loews Corporation. She is also a former New York State Certified Public Accountant. Since the beginning of her administration as dean, Dean Walsh has focused on positioning the school for the future of education. This includes undertaking a comprehensive renewal of the graduate and undergraduate curricula, developing the school's online global presence, identifying international partners for master-level program development, and providing thought leadership for the hospitality industry, most notably through the creation of industry research partnerships for faculty, fostering new initiatives through the school's six centers and institutes, and providing faculty-developed resources to guide the industry. Dr. Walsh received her Ph.D. from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College and her M.P.S. degree from Cornell's School of Hotel Administration.

Captain Patrik Dahlgren

 
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Captain Patrik Dahlgren is the Senior Vice President of Global Marine Operations and Fleet Optimization for all Royal Caribbean Group global brands. Dahlgren's seagoing experiences started as a bridge officer aboard tugboats, yachts and an array of cargo vessels and ferries. He rose through the ranks with over 15 years onboard Royal Caribbean International cruise ships, with his last seagoing command as Master of Oasis of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas. He was a lead contributor to the Quantum of the Seas development and received the esteemed RINA (Royal Institute of Naval Architects) award for its innovation and contributions to maritime safety.

Robin Lindsay

 
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Robin Lindsay is the Executive Vice President of Vessel Operations for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. Lindsay was appointed to this position in January 2015. In this role, Lindsay is responsible for Marine & Technical Operations, Hotel Operations, Entertainment, Product Development, Port & Destination Services, Fleet Personnel, Out Islands and New Build & Ship Refurbishment for all three of the company's brands – Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Prior to joining Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., Lindsay served in a similar capacity as Executive Vice President of Vessel Operations at Prestige Cruise Holdings, the parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Lindsay's history with the company goes back to the inception of Oceania Cruises in 2003, where he joined as Senior Vice President, Hotel Operations and Vessel Operations. Lindsay earned his B.S. degree from Louisiana Tech University. 

In addition, several experts will also serve as senior advisors to the panel, including Dr. Caitlin Rivers, who is a faculty member and epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and an expert in emerging infectious disease epidemiology and outbreak science, and Dr. Phyllis Kozarsky, who is a professor emerita of medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Emory University School of Medicine and an expert in pre-travel health advice and education, global health, and the epidemiology of travel related infections and infectious diseases. Dr. Kozarsky serves as an expert consultant to the Division of Global Migration and Quarantine in travelers' health with the CDC.



Norwegian Cruise Line's Peace of Mind Health & Safety Program

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A cruise news update from Norwegian Cruise Line's CEO discussing how they plan to tackle and ensure that guests and crew have peace of mind when working on the new health and safety program.




Norwegian Cruise Line Extends Pause in Operations & Is STILL Hopeful for Alaska Sailings

Norwegian Cruise Line Extends Pause in Operations & Is STILL Hopeful for Alaska Sailings

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Norwegian Cruise Line has just come out with a new extension in the pause of operations for all of their sailings. Except for a few select sailings! In the video, we discuss how NCL is particularly hopeful and holding onto their Alaska sailings and not canceling some September voyages out of Seattle, even though the Canadian government has banned cruise ships until the end of October. What are your thoughts on this continued pause on cruising and that NCL is holding out hope to sail to Alaska in 2020?

Updated June 16, 2020:    Your safety is our #1 priority—both on and off our ships. Due to the current global environment, we are extending the suspension of 2020 cruises to include:

  • All sailings through August 30th

  • All sailings in September except Seattle-based Alaska cruises

  • The select October sailings listed below

Destination Affected Ship(s) Suspended Voyage Dates

Alaska Norwegian Bliss October 12

Alaska Norwegian Joy October 4

Canada/New England Norwegian Breakaway October 4 - October 11

Canada/New England Norwegian Gem October 2 - October 9

Guests who had an active reservation on a suspended cruise listed above will automatically receive a refund of their cruise fare in the form of a Future Cruise Credit for 125% of the amount paid to date on June 25th. The FCC must be used one year from issued date for ANY Norwegian Cruise Line voyage embarking through 2022.

Guests who prefer to not take advantage of a future cruise credit can elect to receive a lesser refund equal to the amount paid to date to the original form of payment 90 days after form submission for sailings originally scheduled to embark:

  • July 1 - July 31:
    By submitting this refund form by no later than 11:59 pm EST on June 19, 2020.

  • August 1 - Forward:
    For cruise departure dates from August 1 – September 30, in addition to the affected cruises outlined above in October, the refund request form will go live at 9:00 am EST on July 6, and must be submitted by no later than 11:59 pm EST on July 17, 2020.

Can guests choose to carry promotional amenities or value adds from their cancelled reservation to their future booking?

At the time of cancellation, all promotional offers, amenities, and value adds will be removed from the booking and will not carry-over to future reservations. Future reservations are subject to prevailing fares and offers in market at the time of booking.




Norwegian Cruise Line & Virgin Voyages Extend Pause on Cruising

Norwegian Cruise Line & Virgin Voyages Extend Pause on Cruising

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New cruise news with Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages as they both update and extend their global suspensions on cruising! We discuss when each cruise line is aiming to reopen and cruise again along with their cancellation policies and options for cruisers if you have a sailing that is affected by this new cruise extension!





Norwegian Cruise Line Opens for Sale a Year's Worth of Aspirational Voyages Including Antarctica
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Norwegian Cruise Line Opens for Sale a Year's Worth of Aspirational Voyages

Guests Can Experience Over 20 New Destinations with Itineraries Into 2023

Cruise Line to Set Sail for All Seven Continents Including Antarctica

Miami, FL, US - May 11, 2020

Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovator in global cruise travel with a 53-year history of breaking boundaries, today announced that is has opened more than a year of wish-list worthy sailings for 2021 through 2023, with voyages to over 20 new destinations across all seven continents.

Among the notable itineraries are:

·       Norwegian Star’s first voyage to Antarctica beginning in 2021 when she sails from Buenos Aires, Argentina for a season of 14-day Extraordinary Journeys, visiting five ports of call across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and the Falkland Islands, including a majestic sailing by Deception Island and Elephant Island/Cape Lookout.

  • Norwegian Star’s March 2022 South America sailing when she will become the first in the fleet to visit Fortaleza and Salvador de Bahia, Brazil, during a 15-day itinerary departing from Rio de Janeiro.

  • Norwegian Star’s July 14 and July 25, 2022 Northern European sailings, when she will make the brand’s debut in Greenland with calls to Nuuk, Qaqortoq and Nanortalik during two back-to-back 10-and -11-day sailings from Reykjavik, Iceland.

  •  Norwegian Jade’s 12-day Extraordinary Journey sailings from December 2021 through January 2022, when she will make Norwegian Cruise Line history as the first ship to offer roundtrip cruises from Cape Town, South Africa. The voyages will include visits to Luderitz and Walvis Bay, Namibia; Durban, and will feature overnight calls in Cape Town and Richard’s Bay, South Africa.

  • Norwegian Sun’s November 2021 sailing, when she will make her Asia debut and will become the first in the fleet to visit the exotic destinations of Nagoya, Beppu and Himeji Japan; Manila and Coron, Philippines; Kota Kinabalu and Melaka, Malaysia; Muara, Brunei and Kampot, Cambodia.

 

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“The just-announced itineraries for 2021 through 2023 are designed to provide guests with vacations of a lifetime,” said Harry Sommer, Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief executive officer. “At this moment, we are in our respective corners of the world destination daydreaming. We wanted to use this time to provide our loyal guests with the best-of-the-best itineraries. We’ll set sail to more than 20 new incredible destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and South Africa while also sailing to the over 300 destinations our guests have come to love. This time around, we’re giving our guests more time to plan their long-awaited vacations as well as additional extraordinary ports-of-call. We can’t wait for them to experience these vacations of a lifetime.”

Among the new destinations featured in the itineraries are:

·       Elephant Island, Antarctica (No disembarkation) – January 2021 (Norwegian Star)

·       Deception Island, Antarctica (No disembarkation) – January 2021 (Norwegian Star)

·       Nagoya, Japan – November 2021 (Norwegian Sun)

·       Beppu, Japan – November 2021 (Norwegian Sun)

·       Durban, South Africa – December 2021 (Norwegian Jade)

·       Luderitz, Namibia – December 2021 (Norwegian Jade)

·       Walvis Bay, Namibia – December 2021 (Norwegian Jade)

·       Timaru, New Zealand – December 2021 (Norwegian Spirit)

·       Manila, Philippines – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun)

·       Coron, Philippines – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun)

·       Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun

·       Muara, Brunei Darussalam – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun)

·       Melaka, Malaysia – February 2022 (Norwegian Sun)

·       Miyakojima (Okinawa), Japan – March 2022 (Norwegian Sun)

·       Himeji, Japan – March 2022 (Norwegian Sun)

·       Fortaleza, Brazil – March 2022 (Norwegian Star)

·       Salvador de Bahia, Brazil – March 2022 (Norwegian Star)

·       Nuuk, Greenland – July 2022 (Norwegian Star)

·       Qaqortoq, Greenland – July 2022 (Norwegian Star)

·       Nanortalik, Greenland – July 2022 (Norwegian Star)

·       Yangon, Myanmar – November 2022 (Norwegian Spirit)

·       Maputo, Mozambique – January 2023 (Norwegian Jade)

·       Kampot, Cambodia – January 2023 (Norwegian Sun)

For a complete list of the new 2021 to 2023 itineraries, visit www.ncl.com

For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line ships and their itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

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About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 53 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionized the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 17 contemporary ships sail to nearly 300 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize.  Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveler staterooms, mini-suites, spa-suites and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com





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