Julie Bouchner | Porthole Cruise and Travel Contributor https://porthole.com/author/julierosner/ Cruise Vacation & Travel Fri, 26 Jul 2024 17:30:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.5 https://porthole.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/cropped-P_favicon-512-v2-32x32.png Julie Bouchner | Porthole Cruise and Travel Contributor https://porthole.com/author/julierosner/ 32 32 Princess Cruises Shares Special Packages for Conjurer’s Cruise https://porthole.com/princess-cruises-shares-special-packages-for-conjurers-cruise/ Fri, 26 Jul 2024 17:30:23 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85505 In partnership with Hollywood’s Magic Castle™, Princess Cruises has announced three exclusive packages for its second Conjurer’s Cruise aboard the new Sun Princess! Set for November 9-16, 2024, roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale, the cruise will feature performances by actor and magician Michael Carbonaro. MORE ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE Guests can experience “Spellbound,” the newly launched “Extraordinary […]

The post Princess Cruises Shares Special Packages for Conjurer’s Cruise appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

In partnership with Hollywood’s Magic Castle™, Princess Cruises has announced three exclusive packages for its second Conjurer’s Cruise aboard the new Sun Princess!

Set for November 9-16, 2024, roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale, the cruise will feature performances by actor and magician Michael Carbonaro.

MORE ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE

  • Guests can experience “Spellbound,” the newly launched “Extraordinary Experience.”
  • The Conjurer’s Cruise will offer a range of ship-wide magical events and activities, creating a unique journey of wonder and illusion.
  • In addition to the complimentary magic experiences for all registrants, three optional magical enhancements are available for purchase to elevate the onboard experience further.

“After the huge success of our first Conjurer’s Cruise in 2023, our second themed cruise is sure to be another celebration of the magical arts, connecting the astounding amazement of the mysterious world of magic to guests,” said Erika Larsen, president of Magic Castle Enterprises. “This voyage sets sail on the beautiful Sun Princess where Spellbound made its official debut at sea, presenting the world’s only alternative authentic experience of our beloved and exclusive Magic Castle.”

AVAILABLE PACKAGES

The “Apprentice” Package, priced at $275 per person, includes a “Meet the Magicians” welcome reception, a farewell social, a guided tour of Spellbound with Erika Larsen, early seating access for performances in the Princess Arena, and special commemorative merchandise.

The “Enchanter” Package, priced at $545 per person, includes all the Apprentice Package benefits plus an exclusive breakfast with the Conjurer’s Cruise magicians and the Larsen family. Guests will enjoy a fully immersive Spellbound experience with dinner, reserved seating for all magic lectures and performances in the Princess Arena, access to a particular late-night cocktail party, and a surprise-filled magic show.

The premium “Conjurer” Package, priced at $795 per person, includes all benefits from the Apprentice and Enchanter Packages. Guests will attend a magic class for beginners, intermediates, or advanced students taught by a world-renowned magician and receive an exclusive invite to a cocktail soirée with Michael Carbonaro and the Conjurer’s Cruise cast. Additionally, they’ll enjoy a Bridge tour with the Captain of the Sun Princess, exclusive merchandise, a signed photo of the magicians, and a welcome gift in their stateroom.

The seven-day cruise offers participants an exclusive opportunity to experience The Magic Castle. Top magicians will perform throughout the ship, showcasing magic in unique ways. Highlights include:

  • Dynamic magic showcased in the Piazza
  • Magical revues in the Princess Arena
  • Recurring magic shows in the Princess Theater
  • Tailored talks and lectures on various magic-related topics
  • Lively pop-up magic gatherings
  • A countdown to midnight themed event inspired by The Magic Castle
  • Kid-friendly magic shows and activities
  • Magic-themed Movies Under the Stars
  • Displays of curios and artifacts from magic’s rich history
  • Engaging in magic jam sessions

MORE ABOUT “Spellbound by Magic Castle

  • “Spellbound by Magic Castle” is part of Princess Cruises’ “Extraordinary Experiences” category, combining magic with exceptional culinary and mixology arts for an immersive adventure.
  • Diners can enjoy a special menu before entering Spellbound, an immersive venue where magicians from the Magic Castle perform illusions complemented by expertly crafted cocktails.
  • Hollywood’s Magic Castle, home of the Academy of Magical Arts, is known for its intimate performances and grand stage shows. Experience the magic aboard Sun Princess!

Will you explore Princess Cruises’ special packages for its Conjurer’s Cruise? Let us know in the comments!

The post Princess Cruises Shares Special Packages for Conjurer’s Cruise appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
MSC Cruises Reveals New Attractions Aboard MSC World America https://porthole.com/msc-cruises-reveals-new-attractions-aboard-msc-world-america/ Wed, 24 Jul 2024 19:02:43 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85481 MSC Cruises is revealing new details on the exciting attractions and experiences that await guests in The Harbour, a new outdoor space on MSC World America specifically designed for kids and families. MORE ABOUT THE HARBOUR MSC Cruises will launch MSC World America in Miami in April 2025, marking a major milestone in its expansion […]

The post MSC Cruises Reveals New Attractions Aboard MSC World America appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

MSC Cruises is revealing new details on the exciting attractions and experiences that await guests in The Harbour, a new outdoor space on MSC World America specifically designed for kids and families.

MORE ABOUT THE HARBOUR

  • MSC Cruises will launch MSC World America in Miami in April 2025, marking a major milestone in its expansion into the US market.
  • The ship will feature The Harbour, a brand-new outdoor park where families can relax in the sun, enjoy grab-and-go food options, and more.
  • The Harbour is part of the Family Aventura district, which includes the Doremiland kids area and Sportsplex.

THE HARBOUR’S ATTRACTIONS 

The Harbour Aquapark: A water park with thrilling slides, including a 90-degree vertical drop slide and virtual reality raft slide.
Jaw Drop @ The Spiral: A dry slide that takes riders through a shark’s mouth and spirals down 11 decks.
Rock-Climbing Wall: A climbing wall for kids to test their skills.
High Trail Ropes Course: A two-level ropes course with Sky Rails for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
The Harbour Light House: A themed playground inspired by the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, with a slide and play stations.
The Harbour Bar & Bites: A grab-and-go food and drink area.
Family Dwelling Area: A comfortable seating area with shade to relax and enjoy the views.

Cliffhanger: An over-water swing ride that lifts riders up and over the ship’s edge for a thrilling experience.

Learn more about MSC World America and book your cruise here!

The post MSC Cruises Reveals New Attractions Aboard MSC World America appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
Princess Cruises Unveils 2026 Alaska Season https://porthole.com/princess-cruises-unveils-2026-alaska-season/ Wed, 24 Jul 2024 13:58:44 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85475 Princess Cruises is introducing its largest-ever Alaska season for 2026, featuring the new Star Princess ship. MORE ABOUT THE 2026 SEASON The 2026 Alaska season will feature 8 Princess ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations. Star Princess, the second Sphere Class ship, will debut in the fall of 2025 and sail its first summer season in Alaska. The […]

The post Princess Cruises Unveils 2026 Alaska Season appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

Princess Cruises is introducing its largest-ever Alaska season for 2026, featuring the new Star Princess ship.

MORE ABOUT THE 2026 SEASON

The 2026 Alaska season will feature 8 Princess ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations.

Star Princess, the second Sphere Class ship, will debut in the fall of 2025 and sail its first summer season in Alaska. The ship offers stunning views of glaciers and wildlife. The Dome and The Sphere are among its distinctive architectural elements, and the ship is a top destination for foodies at sea with its world-class culinary offerings.

“2026 will reinforce Princess’ leadership in Alaska vacations. The deployment of the magnificent Star Princess to Alaska for the first time will offer guests unprecedented views, luxurious accommodations, and the finest food, beverages, and entertainment ever seen in the Great Land. Our guests will experience Alaska like never before aboard our innovative Sphere Class ship,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. 

ALASKA SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

  •  7-day Glacier Voyage: Discovery Princess, Grand Princess, Coral Princess, and Island Princess visit two Alaska glaciers and Glacier Bay National Park.
  • Inside Passage: 7-20 day cruises with up to four glacier views depart from Seattle, San Francisco, Vancouver, B.C., and Los Angeles.
  • Longer Sailings: 16-day Inside Passage on Emerald Princess and 20-day Ultimate Alaska Solstice on Ruby Princess offer extended stays.

Princess offers shore excursions at each port of call, including “Cook My Catch” fishing excursions, helicopter tours, and whale watching.

RELATED: EMERALD PRINCESS TO HOMEPORT IN BOSTON

“North to Alaska with Princess” program

The “North to Alaska with Princess” program offers naturalist talks, a planetarium show, and fresh Alaskan seafood. The Junior Ranger program is also available for kids.

Bookings open August 1. The “Better Than Best Price Guarantee” offers the lowest rates and a refund of 120% of the price difference if a lower rate is found before the final payment. The offer ends on September 2, 2024.

“Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, Princess is the ultimate choice for luxury and adventure, with awe-inspiring glaciers, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the freshest seafood imaginable,” said Padgett. 

Will you be exploring Alaska with Princess Cruises? Let us know in the comments!

The post Princess Cruises Unveils 2026 Alaska Season appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
Chef Morimoto to Join Guests on ‘Majestic Japan’ Cruise https://porthole.com/chef-morimoto-to-join-guests-on-majestic-japan-cruise/ Tue, 23 Jul 2024 15:56:19 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85467 Join Holland America Line’s 53-day “Majestic Japan” voyage from September 24-30, 2024, where chef Masaharu Morimoto will join the Westerdam cruise. A renowned chef from Hiroshima, Morimoto, will offer exclusive culinary experiences while on board. “Having Chef Morimoto cruise with us is an experience that our guests will never forget. Learning from such a renowned […]

The post Chef Morimoto to Join Guests on ‘Majestic Japan’ Cruise appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

Join Holland America Line’s 53-day “Majestic Japan” voyage from September 24-30, 2024, where chef Masaharu Morimoto will join the Westerdam cruise. A renowned chef from Hiroshima, Morimoto, will offer exclusive culinary experiences while on board.

“Having Chef Morimoto cruise with us is an experience that our guests will never forget. Learning from such a renowned expert and hearing about his background while visiting his homeland is a perfect way to bring more of Japan on board,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of the food and beverage division for Holland America Line. “Throughout the Majestic Japan cruise, our guests also will get to sample some incredible local fish that we feature on our menus as part of our Global Fresh Fish program. The dishes are a wonderful way to showcase the destinations for our guests.” 

MORE ABOUT THE SAILING

  • One of the highlights of his visit will be three pop-up dinners at Pinnacle Grill, where guests will have the opportunity to dine up close with the chef.
  • He will host a “Coffee Chat” where guests can interact with him in a more intimate setting.
  • Chef Morimoto will also participate in a culinary demonstration showcasing his signature dishes created through Holland America’s Global Fresh Fish Program.

“I am excited to sail on board a Holland America Line cruise that puts such a deep focus on my home country of Japan, its unique local ingredients, and visits my hometown,” said Chef Morimoto. “To be able to share my passion for fresh fish while visiting a place that means so much to me will be memorable for not only the ship’s guests but for me personally.”  

‘Majestic Japan’ Legendary Voyage

The 53-day “Majestic Japan” Legendary Voyage departs Seattle, Washington, on September 1, 2024, aboard the Westerdam. The journey visits 21 ports, including 13 stops in Japan during the fall season. Highlights include overnight stays in Yokohama (Tokyo) and Honolulu, Hawaii.

Chef Masaharu Morimoto joins the voyage on September 24 at Osaka and stays on board until September 30, visiting his hometown of Hiroshima and other ports along the way.

The three options for guests to book while Chef Morimoto is sailing are: 

  • 53-days (full cruise), roundtrip Seattle, September 1 — October 24, 2024.   
  • 51-days (full cruise), Vancouver, Canada, to Seattle, September 3 — October 24, 2024.  
  • 34 days (segment), Yokohama (Tokyo) to Seattle, September 21 — October 24, 2024.  
  • A fourth bookable segment, before the chef’s visit, is a 19-day segment from Seattle to Yokohama from September 1 to 21. 

Restaurant and Pop-Up Experience

Introducing Morimoto By Sea, a unique dining experience on Holland America Line. This stand-alone restaurant and pop-up concept offers a globally-inspired menu with artfully presented dishes and drinks for all palates. The menu features fresh seafood sourced from a global network of ports, ensuring the best flavors on board.

For a cover charge, guests can enjoy a multi-course menu with exclusive beverages created by Chef Morimoto.

Global Fresh Fish Program

  • Holland America Line’s Global Fresh Fish Program sources 80 types of fresh fish from 60 ports, getting seafood from port to plate in under 48 hours.
  • The program offers destination-inspired menus and local specialties.
  • Holland America Line is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council and Aquaculture Stewardship Council, ensuring wild-caught or sustainably sourced seafood.
  • Alaska cruises feature 100% certified, sustainable wild Alaska seafood.
  • Cruise-only fares for the 53-day Majestic Japan cruise start at $7,894 per person, double occupancy, with taxes, fees, and port expenses included.

Will you be exploring the sailing experience with Chef Morimoto? Let us know in the comments!

The post Chef Morimoto to Join Guests on ‘Majestic Japan’ Cruise appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
MSC Cruises Top Summer Cocktails https://porthole.com/msc-cruises-top-summer-cocktails/ Thu, 18 Jul 2024 20:19:32 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85447 MSC Cruises shares its most popular summer cocktails, revealing the refreshing drinks that will be sipping on throughout the summer. As a cherry on top, the cruise line is also introducing two brand-new cocktails fleetwide, just in time for the peak vacation season. MORE ABOUT THE SUMMER COCKTAILS MSC Cruises ships feature a wide range […]

The post MSC Cruises Top Summer Cocktails appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

MSC Cruises shares its most popular summer cocktails, revealing the refreshing drinks that will be sipping on throughout the summer. As a cherry on top, the cruise line is also introducing two brand-new cocktails fleetwide, just in time for the peak vacation season.

MORE ABOUT THE SUMMER COCKTAILS

MSC Cruises ships feature a wide range of themed and specialty bars waiting to be discovered. The cruise line’s bartenders offer a fantastic selection of hand-crafted cocktails and alcohol-free mocktails for all guests. There’s something for every taste, from summer cocktails, including non-alcoholic options, to whisky, gin, and more.

Gin & Tonics – The Cocktail of The Moment

NEW! Jasmine & Rose G&T: Bloom pink gin infused with rose petals and jasmine flowers, garnished with dehydrated grapefruit and fresh rosemary.

NEW! Skinny Lemongrass & Ginger G&T: Whitley Neill lemongrass and ginger gin, Fever-Tree aromatic tonic, fresh lime juice, and honey syrup, garnished with dehydrated lemon and fresh ginger.

Elderflower GT: BUSS N°509 Elderflower Gin, Fever-Tree Mediterranean tonic, dehydrated orange peel, a cinnamon stick, and cloves.

Passion Fruit 0.0 GT: BUSS N°509 passion fruit 0.0 gin, passion fruit puree, lemon juice, Fever-Tree light tonic, dehydrated lemon, passion fruit, and coriander seeds.

Timeless Classics Remain a Summer Staple

Aperol Spritz: A classic Italian cocktail made with Aperol, prosecco, and a splash of soda water, garnished with an orange slice.

Margarita: A refreshing favorite, crafted with tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice.

Piña Colada: A tropical treat combining light rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, garnished with a slice of pineapple.

Strawberry Daiquiri: A classic summer treat featuring rum and strawberry puree.

Mojito: A staple of summer, made with rum, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, sugar, and soda water.

Which summer cocktail will you drink during your cruise? Let us know in the comments!

The post MSC Cruises Top Summer Cocktails appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
Norwegian Jewel to Homeport in Philadelphia https://porthole.com/norwegian-jewel-to-homeport-in-philadelphia/ Wed, 17 Jul 2024 15:35:02 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85433 Norwegian Cruise Line has announced its 2026 spring/summer itineraries, featuring destinations in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Alaska, Canada, and New England. For the first time in several years, the cruise line will also offer new voyages from Philadelphia’s Port of PhilaPort. MORE ABOUT NORWEGIAN JEWEL Norwegian Jewel will sail on seven-to-nine-day cruises to Bermuda, departing […]

The post Norwegian Jewel to Homeport in Philadelphia appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced its 2026 spring/summer itineraries, featuring destinations in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Alaska, Canada, and New England. For the first time in several years, the cruise line will also offer new voyages from Philadelphia’s Port of PhilaPort.

MORE ABOUT NORWEGIAN JEWEL

  • Norwegian Jewel will sail on seven-to-nine-day cruises to Bermuda, departing from the Southport Marine Terminal Complex.
  • She will feature overnight stays in Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda, giving guests ample time to explore the island’s stunning turquoise waters and pink-sand beaches.
  • This new homeport for NCL will also increase access to cruising for residents in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region, as Norwegian Jewel will be the only cruise line sailing from Philadelphia until October 17, 2026.

“We remain committed to delivering more experiences for our guests to create unforgettable memories, so they can vacation better with us,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are particularly proud to partner with PhilaPort to launch cruising in the area, making it even more accessible to the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region.”

Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2026 season features 250 itineraries to 30 destinations in the Caribbean, Bermuda, Bahamas, Canada, New England, and Alaska. Each voyage departs from US and Canadian ports from April to November and offers at least 10 hours in port.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

NEW BERMUDA, CANADA, AND NEW ENGLAND 

Norwegian Jewel will sail from Philadelphia and Québec City on 10- and 11-day Canada and New England itineraries from April 16 to August 27, 2026. The ship will visit ports such as Saguenay, Charlottetown, and Halifax.

Norwegian Breakaway will offer seven-day Bermuda voyages from Boston starting April 19, 2026, with overnight stays in the Royal Naval Dockyard and a day in Halifax. From late August to mid-October, the ship will sail seven-day Canada and New England itineraries to ports like Bar Harbor, Saint John, and Halifax.

Norwegian Aqua will return to New York City for its second Bermuda season, sailing five- and seven-day itineraries with overnight stays at the Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda.

SHORT-CRUISE OFFERS TO THE BAHAMAS

NCL is expanding its short-cruise offering with nearly 40 voyages to the Bahamas from Miami aboard Norwegian Getaway in the spring/summer of 2026. The three- to four-night cruises will visit Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.

“Our new 2026 spring/summer deployment further meets the vacation demands of our guests with more shorter cruise offerings to fun-in-the-sun destinations, such as the Bahamas and the Caribbean, as well as a variety of longer itineraries to bucket-list destinations, such as Alaska,” said Herrera. 

CRUISE TO THE CARIBBEAN

Norwegian Prima will offer seven-day sailings to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral, visiting Montego Bay, Jamaica; George Town, Cayman Islands; and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. For a more extended vacation, guests can book back-to-back sailings for a 14-day trip.

EXPLORE ALASKA

From late April to October, Alaska’s stunning landscapes, glaciers, and wildlife await. Depart from Seattle, Whittier, or Vancouver on 7-10-day voyages with Norwegian Encore, Bliss, and Joy. These ships feature racetracks at sea and spacious indoor/outdoor areas to take in the breathtaking views.

Norwegian Jade will offer 7-day open-jaw sailings between Vancouver, BC, and Whittier, AK, with no sea days. For a deeper Alaska experience, book a Cruise Tour and explore the interior, ride the Alaska Railroad, or go fishing in Kachemak Bay.

The post Norwegian Jewel to Homeport in Philadelphia appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
PONANT and PASPALEY Introduce PASPALEY PEARL https://porthole.com/ponant-and-paspaley-introduce-paspaley-pearl/ Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85430 PONANT and PASPALEY have launched a 30-guest boutique expedition motor yacht, PASPALEY PEARL! The ship will operate year-round in the Kimberley, Australia’s Far North, East Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. With a crew of 21, including four expert naturalist guides, PASPALEY PEARL offers personalized, guided expeditions that deliver transformative experiences. MORE ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP PONANT […]

The post PONANT and PASPALEY Introduce PASPALEY PEARL appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
PONANT and PASPALEY have launched a 30-guest boutique expedition motor yacht, PASPALEY PEARL!

The ship will operate year-round in the Kimberley, Australia’s Far North, East Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. With a crew of 21, including four expert naturalist guides, PASPALEY PEARL offers personalized, guided expeditions that deliver transformative experiences.

MORE ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP

PONANT and PASPALEY, with 85 years of combined experience in the Kimberley and other remote areas, will offer unique expeditions in the Asia Pacific. Building on pioneer routes, PASPALEY PEARL will set sail from East Timor to Bali in January 2025 after a major refit.

Explore the Asia Pacific’s hidden gems with PASPALEY PEARL by PONANT. Discover Raja Ampat, Spice Islands, Sepik River, and New Britain Island through fishing, pearl cultivation, and cultural immersion.

UPCOMING VOYAGE

Sail aboard PASPALEY PEARL by PONANT on a 10-night expedition departing January 10, 2025, from Dili to Bali. Highlights include swimming with whale sharks, snorkeling in the Seventeen Islands Marine Park, exploring remote Lembata Island, and experiencing Alorese culture.

On board, relax on private balconies, socialize on the Sunset Lounge or Sun Deck Lounge with an eight-person Jacuzzi, and savor regional cuisine, including local specialties like pearl meat and barramundi.

Click here to learn more!

Are you excited about this new ship? Let us know in the comments!

The post PONANT and PASPALEY Introduce PASPALEY PEARL appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
Meghan Trainor Brought The Beats to Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas https://porthole.com/meghan-trainor-brought-the-beats-to-royal-caribbeans-utopia-of-the-seas/ Tue, 16 Jul 2024 14:34:10 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85420 GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor celebrated the launch of Royal Caribbean’s new ship, Utopia of the Seas, with a summer party in Port Canaveral, Florida. As the ship’s godmother, Trainor officially named the vessel with over 4,000 attendees, including  DJs Rev Run and DJ Ruckus. The event marked a significant milestone before the ship’s debut on […]

The post Meghan Trainor Brought The Beats to Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor celebrated the launch of Royal Caribbean’s new ship, Utopia of the Seas, with a summer party in Port Canaveral, Florida.

As the ship’s godmother, Trainor officially named the vessel with over 4,000 attendees, including  DJs Rev Run and DJ Ruckus. The event marked a significant milestone before the ship’s debut on July 19, 2024, when she will begin offering 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday cruises.

“Becoming Utopia’s godmother and being here for this incredible celebration with Royal Caribbean is a dream come true,” said Meghan Trainor, godmother of Utopia of the Seas. “From performing on a breathtaking stage while we’re in the middle of the ocean to having my fans here to sing and dance with me and experiencing it all with my family – Utopia really is the ultimate short getaway. I’m so honored to be part of the memories so many will make here.”

MORE ABOUT THE CEREMONY

  • Trainor performed at the naming ceremony, celebrating the ship’s crew and future passengers.
  • She took center stage at the AquaTheater, officially naming the ship and performing live for an audience of 50 lucky fans who won tickets to the event.
  • The event marks the start of Utopia‘s three-night celebration, which will feature a live concert hosted by Trainor at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

“Every day on Utopia will feel like the weekend. The unmatched energy and ways to make memories – between the pools, thrills and more and our award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay – will bring friends and families together on a short getaway like never before,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “This epic party, the vacation of celebrations, is just getting started!”  

MORE ABOUT UTOPIA

Utopia of the Seas offers over 40 dining and entertainment options, including exclusive parties and events; you’ll have plenty of choices to make your stay exciting.

The ship features:

  • Two casinos.
  • Royal Railway – Utopia Station is an immersive train car dining experience.
  • Multiple pools and water activities.
  • Thrilling shows on air, ice, water, and stage.
  • Guests can access Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.
  • The island features 14 thrilling waterslides, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, and an adults-only oasis called Hideaway Beach, which has a private beach, pools, and spots for drinks and bites.

“We set out to create a utopian playground at sea that delivers the perfect short getaway and ultimate vacation,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “I’m immensely proud of our dream team that turned this vision into reality. Utopia of the Seas embodies our commitment to push boundaries and deliver the best vacation experiences responsibly.”  

Utopia of the Seas offers 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday escapes to Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas. The itinerary features over 40 dining, drinking, and party options, plus two casinos, Royal Railway, and more. Visit Royal Caribbean’s website for more information and to book your trip.

Will you be sailing aboard Utopia of the Seas? Let us know in the comments!

The post Meghan Trainor Brought The Beats to Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
Emerald Princess to Homeport in Boston https://porthole.com/emerald-princess-to-homeport-in-boston/ Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:28:43 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85404 Princess Cruises is bringing Emerald Princess to Flynn Cruiseport Boston on July 14, marking the start of its inaugural season in the city. Emerald Princess features a range of amenities and activities, including comfortable staterooms, fine dining options, entertainment options, casino games, spa facilities, and recreational activities. She will offer scenic Canada & New England […]

The post Emerald Princess to Homeport in Boston appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

Princess Cruises is bringing Emerald Princess to Flynn Cruiseport Boston on July 14, marking the start of its inaugural season in the city.

Emerald Princess features a range of amenities and activities, including comfortable staterooms, fine dining options, entertainment options, casino games, spa facilities, and recreational activities.

She will offer scenic Canada & New England cruises, including a unique opportunity to visit Greenland, the world’s largest island.

“The debut of Emerald Princess for our maiden Boston season celebrates a convenient new home port for New Englanders and beyond to set sail on a premium cruise at an exceptional value, especially when compared to land-based vacations,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “Our presence also generates substantial revenue for local businesses from our guests and crew, as we’ll bring upwards of 30,000 cruisers to experience all that Boston has to offer.”

Emerald Princess will offer 10 Canada & New England cruises from 7 to 17 days. Guests can enjoy the region’s fall foliage, colonial history, lighthouses, and fresh seafood. The season’s highlight is a unique opportunity to visit Greenland, which has stunning landscapes, fjords, and diverse wildlife.

Emerald Princess offers the following cruises from Boston in 2024:

7-day Canada & New England: July 14, 21, 28; August 4, 2024

Visiting Halifax, Sydney (Cape Breton Island), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), and Portland or Bar Harbor.

10-day Classic Canada & New England: August 28; September 17; October 7, 2024

Departing from Boston to Québec, with stops in Portland, Saint John, Halifax, Sydney (Cape Breton Island), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), and Saguenay.

17-day Greenland & Canada: August 11, 2024
Roundtrip from Boston, visiting Nuuk, Qaqortoq, and Nanortalik in Greenland, plus Sydney (Cape Breton Island), Corner Brook, St. Anthony (Newfoundland), and St. John’s (Newfoundland).
 
“It is our longstanding partnerships with renowned cruise lines such as Princess Cruises that solidify our position as a premier east coast port and tourism destination,” said Lauren Gleason, Massachusetts Port Authority Interim Port Director & Chief Administrative Officer. “We wish Princess Cruises success as they expand their presence in the region with this inaugural homeport season offering sailings from July – October to Canada/New England. We appreciate Princess Cruises’ continued support as each Emerald Princess visit will provide substantial economic impact in both revenue and jobs throughout Massachusetts and New England.”
 
Will you be exploring Emerald Princess as she sails from Boston? Let us know in the comments!

The post Emerald Princess to Homeport in Boston appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>
Utopia of the Seas Arrives in Port Canaveral https://porthole.com/utopia-of-the-seas-arrives-in-port-canaveral/ Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:30:00 +0000 https://porthole.com/?p=85400 Get ready to set sail for the ultimate short getaway! Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas has just arrived in Port Canaveral, Florida! The ship’s crew of over 2,000 celebrated on the Caribbean pool deck of Royal Caribbean’s new Utopia of the Seas, located near attractions like the longest dry slide at sea and a […]

The post Utopia of the Seas Arrives in Port Canaveral appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>

Get ready to set sail for the ultimate short getaway! Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas has just arrived in Port Canaveral, Florida!

The ship’s crew of over 2,000 celebrated on the Caribbean pool deck of Royal Caribbean’s new Utopia of the Seas, located near attractions like the longest dry slide at sea and a FlowRider surf simulator.

GRAMMY-winning artist Meghan Trainor will officially name Utopia and perform at a ceremony before it sets sail, offering 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday cruises.

MORE ABOUT UTOPIA OF THE SEAS

Utopia of the Seas offers over 40 dining, drinking, and entertainment options, including unique events and activities. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, a train car dining experience, two casinos, a tiki bar, and various ways to relax and have fun.

 

The post Utopia of the Seas Arrives in Port Canaveral appeared first on Porthole Cruise and Travel.

]]>