Category Archives: Cruises

CLIA Reveals Why There Has Never Been a Better Time to Book a European Cruise

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CLIA Reveals Why There Has Never Been a Better Time to Book a Europe Cruise

According to Cruise Critic readers, eight out of ten dream of taking a European Cruise but half of those polled think it’s unaffordable. Not true, according to Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) Certified Travel Agency, CruiseOne/Dream Vacations. From unprecedented affordability to seasonal events, CLIA experts reveal why now is the time to experience Europe from the comforts of an ocean or river cruise.

“There has never been a better time for travelers to take advantage of the European travel deals and the far-reaching dollar to cross international destinations off of their bucket lists.  A European cruise is the perfect way to do so,” said Drew Daly, General Manager of Network Engagement & Performance, CruiseOne/Dream Vacations.

Top Five Reasons Why Now is the Time to Cruise to Europe:

1.)    Affordable Airfare: Travelers looking for the best value are in luck as the fall season typically lends itself to plenty of discounted airfare both domestically and internationally, making transportation to a variety of cruise ports more affordable. Furthermore, in an effort to stimulate the European economy, many airlines have also cut prices on flights to Europe this year.

2.)    Cruise Line Promotions:  Due to a less populated travel season and following the summer travel boom, many cruise lines offer the best pricing to travelers in the fall and winter. CLIA Certified Travel Agents are also finding that travelers can plan an Autumn escape with great rates, including excellent promotions on river cruises that include free airfare, making an inaugural European getaway both attractive and more affordable to first-time cruisers.

3.)    Avoiding the Crowds: While Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to travel through Europe, many European destinations are less crowded with tourists and travelers. Those taking advantage of the off-peak travel season may expect less foot traffic allowing for a more relaxed and intimate vacation experience.  Additionally, the autumn weather and reduced crowds may lend itself to a better sightseeing experience for travelers enjoying excursions.

4.)    Far-Reaching Dollar: In many European destinations, the U.S. dollar is exchanging for higher rates than in the past, making converting currency more favorable for American travelers. Getting more for the dollar helps travelers cruisers do, see and shop more in their European ports of call.

5.)    Upcoming Events: There is no shortage of spirited celebrations and events in Europe during the fall and winter months.  For example, from September through November, Europe plays host to the iconic Oktoberfest, the world’s largest Volksfest in Munich. Travelers hoping to get in the early holiday spirit can take a river cruise stopping at the famous Christmas Markets in Nuremberg as early as late November. According to CruiseOne/Dream Vacations travel agents, many consumers are jumping at the chance to book Christmas market river cruises this year. Other upcoming events, including the illuminated Brussels Light Festival, offer travelers a chance to partake in cultural events across Europe.

“European cruise travel has never been quite as attainable as it is right now and cruise travelers are at an amazing vantage point in a climate primed for European travel,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, CLIA. “Now is a perfect time for travelers to connect with a cruise-certified travel agent to book the European vacation of their dreams.”

– See more at: http://cruising.org/about-the-industry/press-room/press-releases/pr/cruise-lines-international-association-reveals-why-there-has-never-been-a-better-time-to-take-a-european-ocean-or-river-cruise#sthash.UvGBuBWP.dpuf

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, a member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Marvel Day at Sea Planned for Seven 2017 Disney Cruises from New York City

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Disney Cruise Line will be celebrating the adventures of the legendary Super Heroes and Super Villains from the Marvel Universe next year during a brand-new, day-long celebration: Marvel Day at Sea. Seven special voyages on the Disney Magic will depart from New York City in the fall of 2017.

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Occurring on one action-packed day during each of the seven Disney Magic sailings, you’ll be transported to a new realm of possibilities when the Marvel Universe assembles on the ship. The event features all-day entertainment including exclusive interactions with some of the mightiest Marvel Super Heroes and the menacing foes that oppose them, an extraordinary deck party, Marvel-themed youth activities, special merchandise and unique food and beverage offerings.

Also featured are exclusive at-sea screenings of fan-favorite films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe including the newest theatrical releases, as well as viewings of the Disney XD shows: “Marvel’s Avengers Assemble,” “Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man” and “Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy.”

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Marvel Day at Sea hosts an awesome mix of immersive entertainment that is sure to empower guests to unlock their hidden superhuman abilities as they assemble their own Super Hero community onboard the Disney Magic on this very special day. Highlights include:

  • Unleash Your Inner Super Hero during the Ultimate Day at Sea
  • Spider-Man, Captain America, Thor and other Marvel Universe Super Heroes are onboard for scheduled meet-and-greets and photos.
  • A brand-new spectacular party fills the upper deck with music, dancing and games.
  • The deck party culminates in a stunning display of themed pyrotechnics, lighting, sound effects and the largest collection of Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains ever assembled on a cruise ship.
  • Kids and families summon their Marvel knowledge and enjoy friendly competition during trivia games, covering courageous heroes and fun facts from the Marvel Universe.
  • For young heroes-in-training, Marvel-themed games, activities and arts and crafts will be offered throughout the day in Marvel’s Avengers Academy in the Oceaneer Club.

Marvel Day at Sea will be on seven- and eight-night Disney Magic Bahamian cruises departing from New York on Oct. 6, 14, 28; Nov. 4, 11 and 18, 2017. All will include a stop at Castaway Cay and Port Canaveral, with a day at Walt Disney World Resort. Marvel Day at Sea will be on one seven-night Canadian Coast cruise departing from New York on Oct. 21, 2017, with stops at Charlottetown, Sydney and Halifax.

Are you ready to summon your inner Super Hero for the adventures that lie ahead during this unforgettable Marvel day at sea?

Plus, if you book your cruise with us by October 31, you will automatically receive a FREE onboard credit!

This story originally appeared on the Disney Parks Blog.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Save on Holiday Disney Cruises from Galveston in December 2016

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Save on Holiday Disney Cruises from Galveston in December 2016

Are you tired of the stress and hustle and bustle of the holiday season? Would you like to take time away to just reconnect and make memories with your family? A Disney Cruise Line Very MerryTime cruise may be the perfect solution for you! Plus, you can save on holiday Disney cruises from Galveston in December 2016!

Celebrate the holiday season at sea and save 20% on select Disney Cruise Line Very MerryTime Cruises departing from Galveston, Texas.

No matter what you desire―exciting adventures, lively entertainment or pool-time play―there’s so many captivating activities for everyone in your family to discover, both on-board and at exciting ports of call.

Your family can set sail from Galveston, Texas aboard the newly enhanced Disney Wonder. Explore the itineraries eligible for this offer:

  • 7-Night Very MerryTime Western Caribbean Cruise on December 2, 2016 – Offer valid for Inside Staterooms with Restrictions (Category IGT)
  • 7-Night Very MerryTime Western Caribbean Cruise on December 16, 2016 – Offer valid for Oceanview Staterooms with Restrictions (Category OGT)

Discover the Value of a Disney Cruise

From the moment you step aboard the ship, to your last wave goodbye, each carefree cruise comes with just about everything you could want on your vacation—and much more.

  • Accommodations – Staterooms are designed with your family in mind—with comforts you won’t find elsewhere.
  • Dining – Savor a wide variety of dining options sure to satisfy even the pickiest of palates, thanks to fresh, expertly prepared dishes available 24 hours a day.
  • Entertainment – Behold Broadway-caliber musicals and fireworks at sea, celebrate at deck parties and catch a movie.
  • Aquatic Adventures – Splash it up in freshwater pools, fun play areas and wild waterslides.

Important Details for This Offer

  • Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses not included:
    • 7-Night Verry MerryTime Western Caribbean Cruise on December 2 and December 16: approximately $103 per person
  • Based on double occupancy.
  • Full, nonrefundable payment and all Guest names required at time of booking.
  • No name changes permitted.
  • Specific stateroom assigned at later time, based on availability.
  • Rate does not include Gratuities or Port Adventures.
  • The number of staterooms allocated for this offer is limited.
  • This offer cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts.
  • Offer subject to Disney Cruise Line Terms and Conditions.

Plus, if you book any cruise with us by October 31, you will receive an onboard credit for a little extra spending money as well!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Amber Cove Named Top-Rated Cruise Line Private Island Destination

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The Caribbean’s newest destination, Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, has been named among the Top-Rated Cruise Line Private Island Destination in Cruise Critic’s first-ever Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards. The awards are given based on consumer feedback submitted on the Cruise Critic website over the past year.

The gateway to one of the world’s most beautiful cruising regions, Amber Cove features dramatic architectural elements that echo the area’s storied Colonial past with cobblestone plazas lined with a variety of retail offerings, including themed restaurants and bars and a marketplace with locally sourced crafts and souvenirs.  An Aqua Zone featuring a pool, water slide, a zip line and poolside cabanas is available on site, as well.

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Amber Cove also provides easy and convenient access to the nearby historic town of Puerto Plata, named by Christopher Columbus when he discovered the island in 1492 and home to the first fort built by European settlers in the New World.  Visitors to the city can shop in the bustling downtown area with artist studios and rum and cigar factories or stroll along the Malecon, a three-mile-long beach-side boardwalk dotted with bars, restaurants and shops.

A robust shore excursion program offering an array of landside experiences including excursions to beautiful beaches, exciting water sports and special culinary, cultural and adventure options, is offered, as well.

Operated by Carnival Corporation & plc, Amber Cove is featured on the itineraries of nine Carnival Cruise Line ships departing from seven convenient North American homeports.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, a member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Celebrate Plan a Cruise Month With #Cruisesmile This October

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October is Plan a Cruise Month and to celebrate, we are giving you a FREE onboard credit for any cruise that you book with us this month! The value of the onboard credit will be determined by the cruise total. Call us at 734-771-1290 or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or your free, no obligation quote.

Plus, for the second year, the cruise industry is launching #CruiseSmile a simple and exciting digital and social sweepstakes offering the chance to win a cruise vacation each week during the month of October. A variety of cruises will be showcased at www.CruiseSmile.org under the themes; family-friendly, cultural exploration, fun in the sun and exploring nature. With 31 unique cruises, entrants have the chance to win a cruise vacation experience of choice appealing to individual travel styles and preferences.

“It’s hard for travelers not to smile when planning, dreaming about, or voyaging out on a cruise vacation and CLIA wants travelers to share those smiles,” said Cindy D’Aoust, CEO, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). “The #CruiseSmile initiative gives everyone something to smile about as well as helping participants discover phenomenal cruise vacations from the 27 CLIA North American cruise lines.”

For a chance to win, participants should simply post a photo featuring a great “Cruise Smile” on Twitter, Instagram or the campaign landing page www.CruiseSmile.org, using hashtags #CruiseSmile and #sweepstakes and tag a friend for additional chances to win from October 1, 2016 through October 31, 2016. Entrants are encouraged to come back each day to discover a new, amazing cruise vacation corresponding with the weekly #CruiseSmile themes. At the end of each theme period, a sweepstakes winner will be chosen and winners can then choose one of the featured cruises to best-fit vacation travel preferences. A total of four cruises will be awarded over the 31-day sweepstakes period.  In additional to a dream cruises, winners will also be awarded a complementary transfer from Carey, a trusted leader in innovative chauffeured service solutions.

How to Enter #CruiseSmile

Step 1: Beginning on October 1, 2016, simply upload a “cruise smile” photo to www.CruiseSmile.org and share the #CruiseSmile entry with friends.

Step 2: Enter for more chances to win by posting a “cruise smile” photo directly to Twitter or Instagram, use #CruiseSmile and #Sweepstakes.

Step 3: Share your #CruiseSmile with friends to gain more entries into the sweepstakes.

Step 4: Come back to www.CruiseSmile.org each day to enter for a chance to win and discover the week’s featured cruise vacation sweepstakes prize.

Step 5: Follow the #CruiseSmile campaign on social channels for the latest information each day – On Twitter and Instagram: @CruiseSmile, On Facebook: Facebook.com/CruiseSmile

Contest entries do not roll over and entrants must upload a new photo each day to be eligible for each day’s prize. The sweepstakes is open to entrants 13 years of age or older. If a minor is selected, a guardian age 21 or over must accept the prize on their behalf. Winners will be selected at random each day in October and some blackout dates apply and are determined by cruise lines.

Participating Cruise Lines

From luxury yachts and modern ocean cruise liners to river and luxury cruises, an impressive list of the industry’s cruise line companies and brands are participating in the #CruiseSmile sweepstakes giveaways, including:

AmaWaterways
Avalon Waterways
Carnival Cruise Line
CroisiEurope River Cruises America
Crystal Cruises
Cunard
Disney Cruise Line
Holland America Line
MSC Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line
Oceania Cruises
Paul Gauguin Cruises
PONANT
Princess Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Royal Caribbean International
Tauck
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Windstar Cruises

Plan a Cruise Month

Plan a Cruise Month will be celebrated during October throughout North America, Australasia and Europe. The initiative is designed as a point of cruise discovery and a way to inspire new and veteran cruisers to plan and book cruise vacations. Through Plan a Cruise Month, CLIA is providing travelers with cruise information, insider travel tips and ways to connect with expert cruise travel agents, as well as a chance to win a cruise of choice through the #CruiseSmile initiative.

About Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) – One Industry, One Voice

Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2015, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the unified voice and leading authority of the global cruise community. As the largest cruise industry trade association with 15 offices globally, CLIA has representation in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australasia. CLIA’s mission is to support policies and practices that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment for the more than 23 million passengers who cruise annually, as well as to promote the value, desirability and affordability of the cruise vacation experience. Members are comprised of the world’s most prestigious ocean, river and specialty cruise lines; a highly trained and certified travel agent community; and cruise line suppliers and partners, including ports & destinations, ship development, suppliers and business services, committed to the sustained success of the cruise industry. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org or www.cruiseforward.org or follow Cruise Lines International Association’s on the CLIA Facebook and Twitter fan pages.

– See more at: http://cruising.org/about-the-industry/press-room/press-releases/pr/celebrate-plan-a-cruise-month-with-cruisesmile-a-chance-to-win-a-cruise-vacation-of-choice-this-october#sthash.Jy3AYLJq.dpuf

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, a member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Top 5 Tips for Halloween on the High Seas with Disney Cruise Line

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On select sailings in September and October, Disney Cruise Line is bringing back Halloween on the High Seas cruises which is sure to be a ghoulishly good time for the whole family! Festivities abound in September and October on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy and during October on the Disney Magic. There are so many unique and exciting events planned for Halloween on the High Seas that you may be wondering how to make the most of your Disney cruise. Here are five tips for Halloween on the High Seas cruises:

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Bring a Costume: Even if you aren’t sailing on October 31, there will be opportunities to wear your Halloween costume during Halloween on the High Seas. The whole family is welcome (and encouraged) t0 show their costumes off during the cruise’s lively costume parties! Families can attend Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party with games, dancing, Disney friends and lots of candy. Plus, adults can enter the late-night Halloween Isn’t Just For Kids costume contest in the nighttime entertainment district.

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Plant a Pumpkin: Your family can play a role in bringing the Pumpkin Tree to life. The tree is tended to by a mysterious, storytelling caretaker, who you can join the first night of the cruise in planting enchanted pumpkin seeds beneath the shadow of the eerie branches. Then, the whole family will be amazed to watch as the tree magically transforms throughout the cruise from barren to the life of the party, full with unique and spooky Jack-O-Lanterns.

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Listen Up: Get into the spirit of the season with spooky sights and sounds. Enjoy the Creepy Cabaret—a band of ghostly musicians—as they perform Halloween-themed music live in the atrium. Then head out for Haunted Stories of the Sea, where the bravest cruisers gather under the stars to hear some true—or not so true—tales of the sea told by a mysterious sea captain storyteller.

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Say ‘Yes’ to Spooky Movies: All throughout the cruise you can catch Halloween-themed movies on Funnel Vision by the family pool and in your stateroom. And on one special night, you can enjoy A Nightmare Before Christmas—Sing and Scream, which is an interactive movie experience inspired by Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” where you are part of the action. It’s followed by a meet-and-greet with Jack Skellington and Sally, a frightfully fun looking pair.

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Treat Yourself: This Halloween you can do more than just sneak a few pieces of your kids’ candy. Disney’s chefs have conjured some very special treats for Halloween, including chocolate cake with pumpkin filling, spider cakes and “Spooky Juice.” These sweets are of course in addition to the assortment of desserts and special beverages you can indulge in throughout your cruise.

What are you most excited for during this year’s Halloween on the High Seas sailings?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Star Wars Day at Sea on Select Disney Cruises in 2017

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Star Wars Day at Sea

In early 2017, Disney Cruise Line guests can celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters of the Star Wars saga during a brand-new event of galactic proportions: Stars Wars Day at Sea. Marking the first official appearance of the heroes and villains of Star Wars aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship, Star Wars Day at Sea combines the power of the Force and the magic of Disney—for a day of fun more powerful than you could possibly imagine.

Star Wars Day at Sea will transport guests to a “galaxy” far, far away—in the Western Caribbean. The event features a full day of Star Wars celebrations, including:

*Deck party celebration
*Meet-and-greets with favorite Star Wars Characters
*Star Wars-themed activities for younglings of all ages
*Out-of-this-world food and beverage offerings
*Exclusive merchandise and more

With the only at-sea screenings of Episode VII, this event will thrill Padawans (Jedi in training) and Jedi Masters in every family. It is … your destiny.

Book a Disney World vacation package with us totaling at least $2,500 by May 31, 2016 and your family will receive a FREE Build Your Own Light Saber Experience!

Contact Siera today at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or to request your free, no obligation quote! 

Exciting Adventures Await at Harvest Caye with Norwegian Cruise Line

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New Harvest Caye development set to be the Western Caribbean’s premier resort-style port of call
featuring Belize’s only pier, expansive white sand beach, 15,000 sq. ft. pool, multiple dining options and easy access to the Belize mainland for unforgettable adventure tours
Norwegian Cruise Line has recently revealed new details on Harvest Caye, Belize, the new highly-anticipated premier Western Caribbean destination experience. Norwegian Cruise Line is developing Harvest Caye to offer an authentic Belizean environment that features easy access to beautiful Southern Belize, coupled with luxurious amenities; a variety of eco-activities; the country’s only cruise ship pier for guest convenience and comfort; the opportunity for guests to easily depart to mainland Belize for the adventure excursion or cultural immersion of their choice; and much more.
This spectacular resort-style port of call, set to welcome guests in November 2016, will be the only port in Belize that features a cruise ship pier.  Rather than having to spend time tendering to shore, guests will be able to walk off the ship and immediately step into paradise.  Harvest Caye will offer guests the beauty and nature of Belize along with all that guests could desire from a tropical destination experience, and also serve as a gateway to the many eco and cultural adventures that lie in mainland Belize. Harvest Caye offers a large marina, where guests can depart for a wide variety of shore excursions to explore this rich destination, including spectacular Mayan ruins, river rafting, nature tours and more.
“Belize is one of the most ecologically and culturally rich gems in the Caribbean, and Harvest Caye will be the perfect destination for guests to experience all that the country has to offer in authentic, unique ways,” said Andy Stuart, president and chief operating officer for Norwegian Cruise Line. “There is so much to do on the island from the spectacular seven acre beach and watersports to interactive wildlife programs. Beyond Harvest Caye, we will strongly encourage our guests to explore Belize through the spectacular eco-adventure and cultural tours this incredible destination has to offer visitors.”
Harvest Caye’s seven acre pristine beach will be the heart of the destination, with white sand and crystal clear waters as the star. Guests who wish to enjoy the day in privacy can opt to rent one of the island’s 11 luxurious beach villas. These indulgent enclosed villas can accommodate up to 10 guests and are the ultimate beach escape, equipped with every comfort including air conditioning, dedicated lounge and dining areas, a private restroom, indoor and outdoor showers, hammocks, and exclusive dining and beverage options with dedicated concierge service so guests never have to leave the beach.
For those that prefer a resort-style experience, Harvest Caye will offer a tranquil, lushly landscaped pool area as the perfect retreat.  The sprawling 15,000 square foot pool features a swim-up bar with stools and lounge tables right in the water, surrounded by elegant lounge chairs and umbrellas, along with 15 canopy pool cabanas. The plush pool cabanas, available for rent, feature upscale lounge furniture, privacy drapes and beverage service. A footbridge spans the center of the pool, with a soothing waterfall feature below.
Adventure will be in no short supply for guests who opt to spend their day on Harvest Caye, with the island featuring a 130 foot tall Flighthouse as the central area for a variety of aerial activities including zip lining, suspension bridges, free fall jumps, a tandem “superman” style zip line and stunning views of the verdant hills of the mainland. Harvest Caye’s zip line course will have more than 3,000 feet of zip line, allowing guests to soar through the air with a bird’s eye view of the island and the sea, with stops at three different platforms. To top off the adventure, the Flighthouse will include a challenging but fun ropes course located on a platform in the saltwater lagoon. For a lower adrenaline adventure, guests can also enjoy watersports such as kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing in Harvest Caye’s shallow lagoon area.
In true Norwegian fashion, Harvest Caye will feature a myriad of dining and bar options, available à la carte. Guests will enjoy five dining and bar outlets that feature a variety of cuisines, including a two-story indoor/outdoor Landshark Bar & Grill. An expansion of Norwegian’s partnership with Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, the Landshark Bar & Grill is sure to be an island favorite, with a scenic upper deck and a swim-up pool bar for the ultimate way to enjoy a “boat drink”. Those who want to indulge in authentic Belizean cuisine will be able to enjoy casual street style dining in the shopping village. Additional dining options will include the Laughing Bird Bar & Grill serving the beach, the Manatee Marina Bar & Grill in the marina, the Horse-Eye Jack Bar & Grill servicing the island’s cabanas as well as food and drink delivery throughout the pool area.
No port-of-call would be complete without superior shopping options, and Harvest Caye will offer a shopping village, which will feature popular name-brand retailers as well as items from local Belizean craftsmen.
Guests with an affinity for wildlife will marvel at Harvest Caye’s many opportunities for an up close encounter with this rich eco-destination’s local plants and animals. To learn about the native flora and fauna in this stunning destination, guests can
  • participate in manatee observation tours at the lagoon to learn about the gentle giants
  • get up close and personal with endangered Scarlet Macaws and Toucans, Belize’s national bird, in the island’s Aviary
  • wonder at the striking beauty of insects at the Butterfly Garden
  • learn more about and view Belize’s indigenous reptiles such as boa constrictors at the educational center
Harvest Caye’s conservation programs and education efforts were developed by award winning author and wildlife expert Tony Garel, the destination’s Chief Naturalist. He will lead many of the island’s educational tours and be available to chat with guests about the incredible array of wildlife in Belize.  The island’s aviary will also house a breed and release program for Scarlet Macaws, in an effort to increase the population of the native birds. Harvest Caye features a cornucopia of native plants and trees that all play a part in the destination’s eco-system. To help further the island’s conservation efforts, more than 10,000 new mangroves have been planted throughout the island, serving to increase the natural estuary system that serves as a critical habitat for birds, young fish and other marine species.
            Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy Harvest Caye beginning November 2016 on Norwegian’s Western Caribbean itineraries, and on Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ sister brands Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises, which will also offer calls at Harvest Caye on select Caribbean sailings.
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2017-2018 Fall/Winter Itineraries

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Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2017-2018 Fall/Winter itineraries

Norwegian Cruise Line announced select 2017-2018 Fall/Winter itineraries that feature sought-after destinations while offering the freedom and flexibility on board that only Norwegian Cruise Line provides. Highlights include a variety of Caribbean & Bahamas cruises from New York, Port Canaveral and Miami; immersive 10-day Canary Islands cruises from Barcelona; as well as the company’s exclusive seven-day, intra-island Hawaii sailings from Honolulu. Norwegian’s new itineraries will be available for Latitudes guests and travel partners on March 22 and open for all bookings on March 23.
Caribbean, Bahamas & Florida
Norwegian’s newest and largest ship, Norwegian Escape, will continue to sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings every Saturday from Miami year-round, bringing guests the best that this region has to offer with calls in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas. Featuring 28 dining options, Tony Award-winning Broadway entertainment, the brand’s first nursery with supervised care for young cruisers ages six months to two years, and much more, Norwegian Escape is a brand-new way to explore the Caribbean in style.
Guests who wish to explore the Western Caribbean from Miami on one of Norwegian’s newest and most exciting ships can enjoy Norwegian Getaway, which will return to the U.S. from The Baltic in Fall 2017 and sail seven-day cruises every Sunday from October 29, 2017 to April 22, 2018. Ports of call include Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras; Norwegian’s newest and most spectacular destination Harvest Caye, Belize; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Cozumel, Mexico.
Norwegian Epic will also return to the U.S. in the fall of 2017 to once again homeport seasonally in Port Canaveral through the winter, offering three-, four- and seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries to fit any schedule or itinerary preference. The recently refurbished Norwegian Epic will feature Norwegian’s private island destination, Great Stirrup Cay, on all of her itineraries from Port Canaveral. As a part of The Norwegian Edge™ investment program, Great Stirrup Cay will receive new features, amenities and island-wide enhancements over the next 16 months, and will welcome guests in 2017 to what will be practically an all-new destination.
Norwegian Epic will sail alternating seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral from November 5, 2017 through March 21, 2018.  Norwegian Epic’s seven-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary will be a beach-lover’s paradise with stops in Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. Guests can choose to soak-up the sun or opt for adventurous excursions on Norwegian Epic’s Western Caribbean itinerary, featuring stops in Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.
Norwegian Epic will also offer guests who may not have the time to get away for a week-long vacation the perfect opportunity for a quick escape in March 2018 with a series of three- and four-day Bahamas itineraries with stops in Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay.
Guests looking for a longer escape can sail away on the recently enhanced Norwegian Gem, part of Norwegian’s Jewel-class, from October 21, 2017 through April 17, 2018 on alternating 10- and 11-day Eastern Caribbean cruises from New York.  Ports of call include San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Tortola, British Virgin Islands.  The 11-day cruises also feature a call in Basseterre, St. Kitts.
For those guests looking for a short cruise option that provides a tremendous value, Norwegian’s 3- and 4-day cruises on Norwegian Sky will continue to sail from Miami year-round, offering an all-inclusive experience featuring free open bar on all sailings.
Europe
            Norwegian Spirit will go into dry dock in early 2017 for significant enhancements and will remain in Europe for Fall and Winter 2017, sailing the Canary Islands with departures from Barcelona. From November 23, 2017 to April 24, 2018, Norwegian Spirit will sail an immersive 10-Day Canary Islands, Spain and Morocco itinerary. Ports of call on this exotic itinerary include  Casablanca, Morocco; Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands; Funchal, Madeira; and Malaga and Alicante, Spain.
Canada & New England
            In addition to the  previously announced seven-day Canada & New England roundtrip cruises from New York City during prime fall foliage season, Norwegian Gem will also offer an exclusive 10-day Eastern Canada and Quebec cruise from New York, with calls in Halifax, Nova Scotia; an overnight in Quebec City; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; and Sydney, Nova Scotia.
 
Hawaii
The recently-refurbished Pride of America will continue to sail her very popular seven-day Hawaii itinerary departing from Honolulu every Saturday through April 2018. Offering more than 100 hours of in-port sight-seeing time, the only ship to sail the islands features an itinerary with calls  that include an overnight in Kahului, Maui; Hilo, Hawai`i; Kona, Hawai`i; an overnight in Nãwiliwili, Kaua`i; and an afternoon cruise past the breathtaking Nãpali Coast.
Will you be booking one Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2017-2018 Fall/Winter itineraries?
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Top 10 Vacations for 2016: #7 Taking a Cruise

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Happy New Year! Now is the time to start thinking about your vacation and getaways for 2016. What is on your bucket list? What memories do you want to create with your family this year? I have picked the Top 10 Vacations for 2016. These are my favorites for this year.

tt7

#7 Taking a Cruise

Are you looking for the ultimate family vacation? Would you like to wake up every morning in a new destination full of adventure and only have to unpack once? If you are saying yes, then cruising is perfect for you. Whether you are on a river cruise or an ocean voyage, if you can dream it you can do it on a cruise. Cruising can also be a very economical vacation, since everything is included in one price!

Where do you want to go this year?

Stop by tomorrow to see the #6 vacation for 2016!

Contact Siera today to book and plan your 2016 vacations at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationstoexplore.com