Royal Caribbean Upgrades Guests’ View on Bahamas, Caribbean and Bermuda Sailings

Guests enjoy great rates on Oceanview and Balcony Staterooms in August on tropical itineraries! 

Royal Caribbean is enticing Aussies to swap the winter blues for tropical views in the sunny Bahamas, Caribbean and Bermuda with a free upgrade* offer!

The free upgrade* offer is applicable to all new and individual bookings in August 2013 on three to 10 night Bahamas, Caribbean and Bermuda cruises departing from 1^st September 2013 through 30^th April 2014.

Guests who take advantage of the free upgrade* offer will be able to experience some of the most revolutionary at-sea experiences onboard their choice of superliner.

Enjoy Oceanview category stateroom for the price of an Interior stateroom onboard:

• Enchantment of the Seas
• Grandeur of the Seas
• Legend of the Seas
• Majesty of the Seas

Enjoy a Balcony stateroom for the price of an Oceanview category stateroom onboard:

• Adventure of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Brilliance of the Seas
• Explorer of the Seas
• Freedom of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Jewel of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Navigator of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Serenade of the Seas

Fares start from $1,139 per person for a Balcony stateroom (including free upgrade) for a 7-night Western Caribbean Cruise onboard Oasis of the Seas departing Fort Lauderdale, Florida on 9 November 2013.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. Royal Caribbean provides a world-class holiday experience with a wide range of signature onboard amenities, entertainment, and award-winning family programming. Royal Caribbean International is an award-winning global cruise brand with a 40-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry "firsts" never before seen at sea. The cruise line features an expansive and unmatched array of features and amenities only found on Royal Caribbean including, jaw-dropping, Broadway-style entertainment and industry-acclaimed programming that appeals to families and adventurous vacationers alike.

The local Royal Caribbean team look forward to the return of the Royal Caribbean International superliners to Australia & New Zealand for the summer season in October, 2013. The Royal Caribbean International superliners sailing locally and to the South Pacific are Voyager of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas.  

For more information about Royal Caribbean's upgrade offer and the brand, visit: RoyalCaribbean.com.au.

*Cabin type and upgrade varies per ship. Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Excludes Vision of the Seas sailings. The free upgrade offer is applicable for all new, individual bookings made by 31 August 2013 on three to 10 night Bahamas, Caribbean and Bermuda cruises departing from 1^st September 2013, through 30^th April 2014. Any booking that is cancelled and then rebooked during the offer period will not be eligible for the promotion.

Royal Caribbean International dual milestones

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL CELEBRATES DUAL MILESTONES FOR QUANTUM OF THE SEAS AND ANTHEM OF THE SEAS

Keel Laying and Steel Cutting Ceremonies Held for new Quantum Class

Excitement was palpable at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany on Friday as Royal Caribbean International marked two important milestones in the development of its Quantum class of ships. Quantum of the Seas, scheduled to be delivered in the autumn of 2014, received its first block as the keel was officially lowered and put into place. In conjunction, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum's sister-ship, had its first piece of steel cut, signalling the first step in the ship's construction.

"Today is a very special day in the development of our new Quantum class, as we are now two steps closer to delighting guests around the world with Quantum cruising," said Adam Goldstein, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "It's incredibly rewarding to seeQuantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas coming together so well, and today we not only honour these two very important milestones, but also recognize the years of hard work and dedication from the team developing these ships."  

The keel laying marks an important milestone in the development of Quantum of the Seas as it signifies the beginning of the ship's physical construction. During the ceremony, a 430-ton block measuring 59-ft by 75-ft (18 x 23 meters) was lifted into the building dock with an 800-ton crane. Newly minted coins were placed under the keel which then stays in place until the end of construction. Once the ship is nearing completion the coins are retrieved and presented to the ship's Captain and crew to be placed onboard the ship. According to maritime tradition, the coins are said to bring luck to the ship during its construction and then to its Captain and crew when she is out to sea.

The groundbreaking Quantum class ships will debut new unprecedented features, such as RipCord by iFLY, the first skydiving experience at sea; the North Star, an engineering marvel that transports guests more than 300 feet above the ocean; transformative venues, such as The Sea-Plex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; and the cruise line's largest and most advanced staterooms ever, including the industry's first-ever Virtual Balcony staterooms, which offers expansive, real-time views of the ocean and exciting destinations for interior staterooms.

The Quantum class will debut in autumn 2014 with Quantum of the Seas, followed by her sister-ship Anthem of the Seas in spring 2015.  Quantum ships span 16 decks, encompass 167,800 gross registered tons, carry 4,180 guests at double occupancy and feature 2,090 staterooms.  More information on Quantum of the Seas is available at RoyalCaribbean.com/QuantumoftheSeas.

For additional information or to make reservations, visit royalcaribbean.com.au or celebritycruises.com.au, call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent. Travel professionals can call 1300 754 500 or visit cruisingpower.com.

Image 1  - Royal Caribbean International took a major step this week in the development of the cruise line's next generation of cruise ships when the first piece of steel was cut for Anthem of the Seas, sister-ship to Quantum of the Seas. The steel cutting took place at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.
 
Image 2 - Quantum of the Seas, scheduled to be delivered in the autumn of 2014, received its first block today as the keel was officially lowered and put into place. The 430-ton block measuring 59-ft by 75-ft (18 x 23 meters) was lifted into the building dock with an 800-ton crane and signifies the beginning of the ship's physical construction.
 
Image 3 - Quantum of the Seas, scheduled to be delivered in the autumn of 2014, received its first block today as the keel was officially lowered and put into place. Newly minted coins were placed under the keel which then stay in place until the end of construction. According to maritime tradition, the coins are said to bring luck to the ship during its construction and then to its Captain and crew when she is at sea. Present at the event were (lefto to right): Bernard Meyer, Harri Kulovaara, EVP, Newbuild and Design, Royal Caribbean International; Mika Heiskanen,  
Project Manager, Royal Caribbean International and Jan Meyer, Managing Partner, Meyer Werft.
 

Australians just want to get away from it all this Christmas!

Royal Caribbean releases new survey findings about what Aussies really want at Christmas time

 

Forget the roast and fruit cake at gran's place! Most of us just want to get away from it all over the Christmas holidays according to a brand new survey* by Royal Caribbean.

The survey showed that a whopping two thirds of Aussies believe that getting away from it all would make Christmas better, and 50% of respondents said that a getaway was the number one thing that would make school holidays better.

When it comes to stress at Christmas time, money is the main cause of the headaches with 30% citing spending too much money among the most stressful part of the festive season. Over 95% of respondents find that Christmas usually costs more than expected. After that, the most stressful part of Christmas was those dreaded household chores. Plus, 94% of respondents said that they usually needed a break to get over the Christmas holidays!

However while we want to get away from the stress of Christmas, a lot of us are happy for the family to come along - 40% of respondents said that they would most like to go on a cruise with their family.

Adam Armstrong, Commercial Director at Royal Caribbean Cruises Australasia said: "A cruise is a great value option at Christmas time, from as little as $166 per person per day including meals, accommodation and lots of entertainment. And of course there's no arguing over who's going to do the washing up!"

It is hard not to get into the holiday spirit with all the special activities on board a Royal Caribbean cruise at Christmas time. The season comes to life with carol singing, Christmas parties, visits from Santa, holiday-inspired menus and Christmas treats such as gingerbread houses built by talented onboard pastry chefs.

Royal Caribbean's summer 2013-14 wave season will begin in October 2013, with Rhapsody of the Seas arriving in Sydney on 5 October, Radiance of the Seas on 11 October and Voyager of the Seas on 7 November. In total, the three ships will offer 55 sailings calling at 56 beautiful Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific ports, with departures up until April 2014. Each ship will offer a South Pacific Christmas cruise over the December holidays.

Fares for a nine night South Pacific cruise onboard Voyager of the Seas start from $1,499 per person departing Sydney, 18 December 2013. For a limited time only book a Balcony cabin for the price of an Oceanview from $2,199 per person.**

For additional information or to a make reservation, visit royalcaribbean.com.au, call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent. Travel professionals can call 1300 754 500 or visit www.cruisingpower.com.

*Survey conducted via Survey Monkey from 16-19th July, 2013. Survey tallied over 1,600 responses across Australia and New Zealand, with majority of respondents ranging from under 20 to over 70 years old.  

**Conditions apply. Subject to availability.

 

 

Snap Shot of Key Survey Findings:

 

·         Over 61% of respondents cited spending too much money and household chores the most stressful at Christmas time.

·         Over 67% of respondents said that getting away from it all would make Christmas better for them.

·         Nearly 94% of respondents said that they always or sometimes need a holiday to get over the Christmas holidays.

·         Nearly 76% of respondents said that taking a holiday would be the perfect way to spend Christmas.

·         Over 95% of respondents find that Christmas expenses always or sometimes cost more than expected.

 

RCL Cruises Ltd Australia commenced operation in December 2008 as the Australian arm of global cruise holiday company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.  The company offers three cruise brands in Australia and New Zealand: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises.  Royal Caribbean International has three ships sailing in the region: Voyager of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas.  This is in addition to two Celebrity Cruises ships, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium. 

 

For additional information or to make reservations, visit royalcaribbean.com.au or celebritycruises.com.au, call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent. Travel professionals can call 1300 754 500 or visit cruisingpower.com.

 

Royal Caribbean milestones for new ships

Excitement was palpable at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, earlier as Royal Caribbean International marked two important milestones in the development of its Quantum class of ships.

Quantum of the Seas, scheduled to be delivered in the autumn of 2014, received its first block as the keel was officially lowered and put into place. In conjunction, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum's sister-ship, had its first piece of steel cut, signalling the first step in the ship's construction.

"Today is a very special day in the development of our new Quantum class, as we are now two steps closer to delighting guests around the world with Quantum cruising," said Adam Goldstein, president, Royal Caribbean International.

"It's incredibly rewarding to see Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas coming together so well, and today we not only honour these two very important milestones, but also recognise the years of hard work and dedication from the team developing these ships." 

The keel laying marks an important milestone in the development of Quantum of the Seas as it signifies the beginning of the ship's physical construction.

During the ceremony, a 430-ton block measuring 59-ft by 75-ft was lifted into the building dock with an 800-ton crane.

Newly minted coins were placed under the keel which then stays in place until the end of construction.

Once the ship is nearing completion the coins are retrieved and presented to the ship's Captain and crew to be placed onboard the ship.

According to maritime tradition, the coins are said to bring luck to the ship during its construction and then to its Captain and crew when out to sea.

The groundbreaking Quantum class ships will debut new unprecedented features, such as RipCord by iFLY, the first skydiving experience at sea; the North Star, an engineering marvel that transports guests more than 300 feet above the ocean; transformative venues, such as The Sea-Plex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; and the cruise line's largest and most advanced staterooms ever, including the industry's first-ever Virtual Balcony staterooms, which offer expansive, real-time views of the ocean and exciting destinations for interior staterooms.

The Quantum class will debut in autumn 2014 with Quantum of the Seas, followed by her sister-ship Anthem of the Seas in spring 2015. 

Quantum ships span 16 decks, encompass 167,800 gross registered tons, carry 4,180 guests at double occupancy and feature 2,090 staterooms.

Double cruise for double fun aboard Brilliance of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas

Brilliance of the Seas

A great value 32-night fly/cruise package involving two Royal Caribbean ships visiting Canada, New England, the Caribbean and North America costing from just $6539 per person is now available through cruise specialists' ecruising.travel when purchased before November 29.

The cruising starts in Boston on October 19, 2014, and the price includes the first seven night roundtrip cruise from Boston, a 14 night cruise from Boston to Florida, return economy class airfares from Australia, three nights at the Boston Marriot Long Wharf Hotel and four nights in both the Renaissance Hotel57 New York and Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club and Lodge Orlando, a round of golf in Orlando, a 15 minute New Yorker helicopter tour along with meals and entertainment on board the ships and airport transfers.

After leaving Boston aboard Brilliance of the Seas the voyage makes stops in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Saint John, Brunswick and Bar Harbor and Portland in Maine before returning to Boston to join Explorer of the Seas.

Explorer makes several port calls in the Caribbean including St Maarten, Antigua, St Lucia, Barbados, Curacao, Bonaire and Aruba before disembarkation in Port Canaveral in Florida.

The ships have a comprehensive selection of restaurants, cafes, grills, bars and lounges, a rock climbing wall, golf simulator and a nine-hole miniature golf course, a full size basketball court and much more to fill your days at sea.

For more details contact ecruising.travel on 1300-369-848 or visit www.ecruising.travel

Royal Caribbean Flagship sale starts now! Onboard credits, half price deposits, huge savings!

Hi cruisers, Royal Caribbean’s popular Flagship SALE is back for one week only! Book before 10 August 2013 to receive up to US$200 Onboard Credit~, half price deposits~ and savings of up to $1,585*pp. The sale is available on Royal Caribbean South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand sailings of 5 nights or longer departing between September 2013 and April 2015. There is something for everyone onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise. With a rock wall, an award-winning kids programme, a mini golf course, broadway-style entertainment, a day spa and fitness centre and much much more, you can do as much or as little as you like! Click here for more information and a full range of itineraries, or call us on 1800 754 500.

*10 nights from $1099pp is based on Voyager of the Seas 27 February 2014 and is inclusive of taxes, fees and onboard gratuities (tips). Savings of up to $1,585 is based on Voyager of the Seas 9 November 2013. ~Local Flagship Sale offer applies to new, fully deposited bookings made between Sunday 4 August and Saturday 10 August 2013 on all Royal Caribbean Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific 2013/14 and 2014/15 cruises of 5 nights or longer departing between September 2013 and April 2015. Any existing booking that is cancelled and then rebooked during the offer period will not be eligible for the promotion. Onboard Credit offer varies by duration of cruise: 5-11 nights – US$100 per cabin, 12 nights or more – US$200 per cabin. Half Price Deposit offer is a 50% discount off the per person deposit amounts, which vary by cruise duration and are published in the Royal Caribbean International South Pacific, Australia & New Zealand 2013-2015 brochure. Deposits must be received by RCL Cruises Ltd no later than 5:00pm (Sydney time) on Friday 16 August 2013 to qualify for these offers. Local Flagship Sale offer is not valid for group bookings or applicable to the following restricted fares: Seniors (SRS), Family Pricing (FMLY), Military (MIL), Upgrade Offers (UPG), Guarantee (GTY), Buy one get one 50% off second guest (BOGOHO), Air offer (ARF). Onboard credit is not combinable with any other offer and/or promotion, including, but not limited to Crown & Anchor, Shareholder Benefits, Future or NextCruise offers. In the event that a guest has more than one applicable offer for the same sailing, the guest can choose the offer he/she wishes to retain. Onboard Credit will be applied to eligible bookings by RCL Cruises Ltd via internal option code within 4 weeks of the end of the sale. A limited number of cabins are available at the prices shown above and prices may increase or be withdrawn once these cabins are sold out. Passengers are bound by the terms and conditions in the Royal Caribbean International South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand 2013-2015 brochure. Please click here for full terms and conditions.

Kai Tak moves from jumbo jets to megaliners as Hong Kong embraces surge in cruising

from Roderick Eime in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has long been recognised as one of the world's most dramatic ports. Embraced by towering hills, the vast stalk-like cityscape rises high into the low clouds along the narrow edge of foreshore that supports a population of around 7 million.

With the imminent opening of the gleaming new Kai Tak cruise terminal on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong harbour, Australians will soon have a new way to experience one of their all-time favourite travel destinations.

Opened in 1966, the current OceanTerminal is limited to ships of around 100,000 GT and 10m draft, while the new Kai Tak cruise terminal will permit two 360m vessels of up to 220,000 GT to disembark and clear 5,400 passengers and 1,200 crew at a rate of 3,000 per hour.

In a test of the terminal's capability, Royal Caribbean's 311m, 138,279 GT Mariner of the Seas was the first mega luxury cruise liner to dock at the two-berth terminal in June this year, with the event hailed as a success.

"Kai Tak was the site of our legendary airport (closed in 1998) and is now turning a historic page by connecting Hong Kong with the rest of the world through the seven seas," Commissioner of Tourism Philip Yung said to AFP. “With the addition of this new facility, Hong Kong is in full gear to receive mega cruise ships"

Ships' masters should also be pleased with the simplified berthing procedures at Kai Tak, which is much closer closer to the eastern harbour exit.

Mariner of the Seas arrives for Kai Tak's inaugural berthing (HKTB)

The terminal will deliver passengers directly to the East Kowloon waterfront and commands spectacular views of Victoria Harbour. It is within easy reach of a number of key attractions including Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, Kowloon Walled City Park, Chi Lin Nunnery / Nan Lian Garden, Lei Yue Mun Seafood Bazaar. Also located nearby is Festival Walk. This shopping complex is just 10 minutes away and houses many of the world's best-known brands. Quickest airport access is 10 km by road to Kowloon Station Airport Express Line where departing passengers can also check-in.

Currently around 50,000 Australians visit HK every year cramming into the city's busy hotels, running at an occupancy rate approaching 90 per cent. Cruise passengers from all markets spent almost HK$75million in 2012, up nearly 6 per cent from 2011, not counting those who embarked or disembarked their cruise in HK. It is likely that HK's overall tourism arrivals will exceed 50 million n 2013 if the current 16% growth rate is maintained.

The opening of the new terminal signals HK's intention to transform the city into a major regional cruise hub which will likely spike the city's tourism figures yet further, so it remains to be seen whether HK's already near capacity hotel market will cope with the new influx.

The next arrival at Kai Tak is RCCL's Voyager of the Seas on 15th October, followed by Diamond Princess and Superstar Aquarius.

Official HKTB site

<< For further information on attractions and ideas for visiting Hong Kong, see the HKTB Official Travel Site

Royal Caribbean celebrates Christmas in July

Imagine a Christmas that's stress-free, with everything taken care of from Christmas dinner to the decorations and festive activities that also come with an ocean view.  Make Christmas this year a holiday the whole family can enjoy, onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise. And the good news is that Royal Caribbean is offering some very special holiday deals for a limited time only, so what are you waiting for?

OFFER DETAILS:

• Royal Caribbean is offering up to $200 bonus onboard credit per stateroom on all its cruises departing between 18 - 31 December 2013 of 5-nights or longer

-        For Interior and Oceanview bookings guests will receive $100 bonus onboard credit per stateroom

-        For Balconies and Suites bookings guests will receive $200 bonus onboard credit per stateroom

• Furthermore, for the 9-night South Pacific and Fiji  Christmas cruise on Voyager of the Seas departing 18 December 2013, Royal Caribbean is offering a free Balcony upgrade. Lucky guests can book a Balcony stateroom for the price of an Oceanview stateroom.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

• This offer is for new bookings made between 14 - 31 July 2013, for cruises departing 18 - 31 December 2013 of 5 nights or longer

LEAD FARE:

1. Nine-night Fijian Dream cruise on VOYAGER OF THE SEAS

Prices start from $1,499* per person for an interior stateroom, or $2,199* per person for an Oceanview booking which includes a free upgrade to a Balcony Stateroom. This sailing includes the bonus onboard credit offer, and departs Sydney Wednesday 18 December 2013. Christmas day will be celebrated cruising at sea before returning to Sydney Friday 27 December.

2. Nine-night Tropical delights cruise on RADIANCE OF THE SEAS

Prices from  $1,659* per person for an interior stateroom;  $1,989* per person for an Oceanview; and $2,619* per person for a Balcony stateroom. This sailing includes the bonus onboard credit offer for Christmas cruises and departs Sydney Friday 20 December 2013, with Christmas day spent at sea between Lifou, Loyalty Islands and Isle of Pines, New Caledonia.

3. Five-night Spice of Southeast Asia cruise on MARINER OF THE SEAS

Prices start from $1,039* per person for an interior stateroom; $1,209* per person for an Oceanview; and $1,299* per person for a Balcony stateroom.  This sailing departs Singapore on 23 December 2013, and includes the bonus onboard credit offer for Christmas cruises.

* prices are per person twin share based on the lowest available stateroom

 

Sail in a Balcony cabin with Royal Caribbean upgrade sale

There has never been a better time to book your next Royal Caribbean cruise. Pay for an Oceanview cabin and we will upgrade you to a Balcony. This means you can cruise in a Balcony cabin from as little as $142*pp per night (based on 14 night Australia & Asia Experience on Voyager of the Seas, 24 October 13).

A Royal Caribbean cruise is a great value-for-money holiday as nearly everything is included in the price: main meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), most onboard activities, fitness facilities, kids programmes and activities, onboard entertainment and onboard gratuities. Therefore when you board the ship all you need to do is just sit back, relax and enjoy!

The offer is available on selected South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand cruises. For more information and a list of itineraries, please click here.





visit royalcaribbean.com.au
call 1800 754 500
or visit your travel agent



*$142 AUD per person per night applies to the Australia & Asia Experience 14 night itinerary, departing Singapore on 24 October 2013 on Voyager of the Seas. This price is based on twin occupancy and is inclusive of taxes, fees and onboard gratuities (tips). Prices for all other cruise itineraries can be found on our website. Upgrade offer is valid for new individual bookings made in a Balcony cabin only (Lead Oceanview cabin – category H is equal to lead Balcony category D2). Passengers are bound by the terms and conditions in the Royal Caribbean International South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand 2013-2015 brochure. Please click here for full terms and conditions.

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Royal Caribbean Royal Roundup - June 2013

Royal Caribbean cruise deals - Exciting Asia sailings, all for under $1,500!

 

Exploring Asia's exotic shores has never been more affordable.  Royal Caribbean has three hot Asia sailings on offer, including itineraries to Japan, Singapore and a special repositioning cruise from Singapore to Sydney onboard Australia's largest ship, Voyager of the Seas.  Please see below for full details and lead fares.

 

LEAD FARES:

 

1)      What:  12-night All Japan Explorer Cruise calling at Toyama, Japan; Sapporo, Japan; Tokyo, Japan; Nagasaki, Japan and Busan, Republic of Korea onboard Voyager of the Seas

When: Departing roundtrip from Tianjin, China on 7 September 2013

Lead fare: Fares from $1,139 per person for an interior stateroom

 

2)      What: 5-night Exotic Asia Cruise calling at Hong Kong, China; Ho Chi Minh , Vietnam; and Singapore onboard Mariner of the Seas.

When: Departing Hong Kong, 5 November 2013

Lead fare: Fares from $569 per person for an interior stateroom

 

3)      What: 14-night Asia Repositioning Cruise calling at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Darwin, Australia; Brisbane, Australia; and Sydney, Australia onboard Voyager of the Seas.

When: Departing Singapore on 24 October 2013

Lead fare: Fares from $1,499 per person for an interior stateroom

Special Offer: Splash out on an Oceanview cabin on Voyager of the Seas' repositioning cruise from Singapore to Sydney and get a free upgrade to Balcony cabin.  Fares start from $1,999 per person.

 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

All quoted fares are per person and include taxes and gratuities. 

 

BOOKING: www.royalcaribbean.com.au or visit your local travel agent.

 

Inaugural berthing of Mariner of the Seas at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Hong Kong

The Kai Tak Cruise Terminal in Hong Kong received Royal Caribbean International's cruise liner Mariner of the Seas last night (12 June), marking the maiden call to Hong Kong by the cruise ship. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) organised a ceremony featuring lion and dragon dances, and drum performances to welcome the more than 3,000 passengers.

Attending the welcome ceremony were Mr Philip Yung, Commissioner for Tourism of the Hong Kong SAR Government; Ms Daisy Lui, HKTB Deputy Executive Director; Mr Barry D Nassberg, Chairman of Worldwide Cruise Terminals (WCT); and Mr Chan Kam Foo, General Manager of shipping agent Wallem Shipping (HK) Ltd. A plaque and key ceremony was also held for the guests and captain of Mariner of the Seas.

Ms Daisy Lui also presented souvenirs to the first batch of the cruise ship's passengers to show them the hospitable culture of Hong Kong and to encourage them to fully experience Hong Kong, Asia's World City, during their stay. 

Riding on the opportunities brought by the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, the HKTB has been promoting Hong Kong's world-class cruise facilities and appeal as a cruise destination through different channels, with a view to strengthening the city's image as Asia's Cruise Hub and attracting international cruise companies to feature Hong Kong in their itineraries. In addition, the HKTB is working closely with the travel trade to develop new onshore excursions to enrich the experience of cruise passengers while they are in Hong Kong.

Event video can be downloaded via below link:

ftp://kwc-b:abc+123@202.85.167.142

Photo captions:

Kai Tak Cruise Terminal 1:

Mr Philip Yung, Commissioner for Tourism of the Hong Kong SAR Government (third left), Ms Daisy Lui, HKTB Deputy Executive Director (third right), Mr Barry D Nassberg, WCT Chairman (second left), Mr Chan Kam Foo, General Manager of cruise agent Wallem Shipping (HK) Ltd (second right), and Dr Zinan Liu, Regional Vice President, Asia and Managing Director, China, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (far left) pose for a group photo with the first batch of passengers of Mariner of the Seas.

Kai Tak Cruise Terminal 2:

Royal Caribbean International's Mariner of the Seas is the first cruise liner to officially berth at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.  The HKTB arranged dragon and lion dances, and drum performances to welcome the passengers.

Website: DiscoverHongKong.com/au

Quantum of the Seas on sale now

Quantum of the SeasSM on sale now Quantum of the Seas is a true leap forward – with North StarSM, RipCordSM by iFly®, as well as the most sophisticated cabins in our fleet. Find out more about our groundbreaking new ship below. Sail a range of itineraries throughout the Caribbean and Bahamas, including our very own private beach paradises of Ladadee® and CocoCay®. Book Quantum of the Seas now

RipCord by iFly That’s right: Fly! This skydiving simulator lets you experience the sheer thrill and exhilaration of flying. RipCord by iFly’s air machine will keep you afloat in a safe, controlled environment. So you can feel the wind in your hair, the utter WOW of flying, all without ever having to leave the ship.

North Star The exclusive North Star promises to elevate you both physically and emotionally, revealling 360-degree views! Simply step into the intimate, jewel-shaped capsule and gently ascend over 300 feet above sea level, where you can take in breathtaking views of the ocean, the ship and destinations.

SeaPlexSM SeaPlex is the largest and most groundbreaking indoor active space at sea. By day, you can experience a circus school and flying trapeze, as well as a regulation basketball court. By night, it hosts the first-ever bumper cars and roller skating at sea, with a DJ that hovers above the activity.

Two70°SM Find yourself immersed in spellbinding performance art, mind-blowing light shows, and dazzling digital scenery. During the day, the space is a modern, open area living room with magnificent 270 degree panoramic views. By night, Two70° transforms as the lights go down and the music comes up.

Watch our full Quantum of the Seas video.

Great offers on on exotic Asia cruises

Cruising is on the rise in Asia. And with some of the world’s most stunning and exotic locations, it’s easy to understand why.

Royal Caribbean offers an assortment of itineraries onboard two world-class megaliners, covering this beautiful and culturally diverse continent.

We’ve hand-picked three of our favourites for you below.

All Japan Explorer Cruise: 12 nights

Enjoy the picturesque beauty of Japan with four stopovers including Sapporo and Tokyo. Then experience South Korea's second largest city, Busan, before finishing the cruise in Beijing.

Voyager of the Seas. Departs 7 September 2013. View itinerary.

Australia & Asia Experience: 14 nights

Cruise from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, with its super-modern buildings juxtaposed with various cultural enclaves. Then on to the northern tropics of Darwin, stopping at Brisbane en route to Sydney. Voyager of the Seas. Departs 24 October 2013.

View itinerary.

Exotic Asia cruise: 5 nights Depart the glittering chaos of Hong Kong, sailing to the history-rich Ho Chi Minh City, then on to the ultra-modern metropolis and sparkilng lights of Singapore.

Mariner of the Seas. Departs 5 November 2013.

View itinerary.



For more Asia cruise options, including with our sister brands Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises, view our Exotic Asia brochure.

Grandeur of the Seas fire. Sailing cancelled.

Royal Caribbean International announced earlier the May 31st, 2013 sailing of Grandeur of the Seas from Baltimore, Maryland, will be cancelled to allow for repairs to damages sustained as a result of a fire.

Guests booked on the sailing will be provided a full refund of the cruise fare paid for their sailing.

Royal Caribbean also will provide these guests with the opportunity to sail in the future by providing a future cruise certificate for 50 per cent of the cruise fare.

Guests who booked air transportation through Royal Caribbean International will receive a full refund for air costs.

If they did not purchase air transportation through Royal Caribbean International, the cruise line will pay for their airline change fees.
Grandeur of the Seas was en route to CocoCay, The Bahamas, when the ship experienced a fire in the mooring area in the aft of the ship.

The ship was redirected to Freeport, The Bahamas, where it remains.

Grandeur of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean International's fleet of 21 cruise ships.

The ship was launched in December 1996 and recently refurbished in May 2012.

Royal Caribbean International announces Quantum of the Seas’ first Caribbean sailings

Groundbreaking New Ship Opens for Sale on May 28, 2013 and Inaugural Voyage Set for November 23, 2014

 

23 May 2013 – With more game-changing "firsts at sea" being introduced on Royal Caribbean International's new Quantum class of ships, holidaymakers will be hard pressed to find another experience that delivers the "WOWs" like Quantum of the Seas. The cruise line known for introducing incredible signature onboard offerings, such as the rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, FlowRider surf simulator, zip-lining and a park with more than 12,000 plants and trees, today unveiled Quantum of the Seas' first 18 Caribbean sailings, ranging from seven to 12 nights, with the official inaugural voyage set for November 23, 2014. Bookings will be available to Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program members beginning May 28, 2013 before opening to the general public on June 4.

 

The groundbreaking new ship will sail roundtrip from Cape Liberty Cruise Port near New York City, USA to the most popular Caribbean destinations.  Guests can choose among Bahamas (seven and eight nights) and Caribbean (eight, 11 and 12 nights) itineraries aboard Quantum of the Seas. Cruises will be on sale through to April 2015 and the ship will debut new unprecedented features, such as a skydiving experience; a thrilling adventure that transports guests more than 300 feet in the air on a breathtaking journey; cutting-edge transformative venues including the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; and the cruise line's largest and most advanced staterooms ever. To view the reveal film which introduces Quantum of the Seas' innovative at-sea "first", please see http://tinyurl.com/avdzrws.

 

"Royal Caribbean is proud to partner with some of the Caribbean's premier destinations for the inaugural season of Quantum of the Seas," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "The Quantum class of ships will combine a new set of truly exciting and first-at-sea innovations that can only be found on Royal Caribbean, with some of the most incredible destinations in the region. We can't wait to WOW vacationers with the new Quantum class."  

 

On the Bahamas cruises, guests call at Port Canaveral, Florida; Nassau and CocoCay – Royal Caribbean's private tropical island paradise. Caribbean cruises will include port calls to San Juan,  Puerto Rico; Samana, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas; St. Kitts; Martinique, Barbados and St. Maarten – as well as Labadee, Royal Caribbean's very own private beach paradise on the north coast of Haiti.

 

Building on a legacy of more than 40 years of innovation and creative design, Royal Caribbean's Quantum class of ships will take a dramatic leap forward, introducing more game-changing "firsts at sea," such as RipCord by iFly (http://tinyurl.com/af3o2qf), the first skydiving experience at sea, which allows everyone from first-time flyers to seasoned skydivers to enjoy the sheer thrill and exhilaration of skydiving in a safe, controlled and simulated environment. North Star (http://tinyurl.com/bp22mwy), an engineering marvel, will take guests to new heights – literally – with a jewel-shaped, glass capsule, transporting them on a spectacular journey more than 300 feet above the ocean and over the sides of the ship to deliver awe-inspiring 360-degree views.

 

The new Quantum class also will introduce new cutting-edge, transformative venues, including Two70° (http://tinyurl.com/b99ob8n), a multi-level great room aptly named for its magnificent 270-degree panoramic sea views through three-deck high, floor-to-ceiling glass walls at the stern of the ship; SeaPlex (http://tinyurl.com/cwpmlvg), the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and circus school with trapeze; and Music Hall (http://tinyurl.com/bdw3myd), a two-story performance hall, inspired by the spirit of rock and roll, and the hottest live music venue on Quantum class. 

 

Quantum class also will offer Royal Caribbean's largest and most advanced staterooms ever, including the industry's first interior staterooms with Virtual Balconies, ensuring that every stateroom on Quantum of the Seas will have a view. For multi-generational families, Family-Connected staterooms deliver more flexibility, using three different stateroom categories that connect to form a special layout that provides separate bedrooms and bathrooms for all. Royal Caribbean also will introduce new Studio staterooms – some featuring balconies – for single travelers, three new Junior Suite categories, and larger Loft Suites. For an informative overview of Quantum of the Seas' new stateroom concepts, please see http://tinyurl.com/a2obdob.

 

Quantum of the Seas will debut in October 2014, followed by her sister-ship Anthem of the Seas in early 2015.  Quantum Class ships span 16 decks, encompass 167,800 gross registered tons, carry 4,180 guests at double occupancy and feature 2,090 staterooms.  More information on Quantum of the Seas is available at RoyalCaribbean.com/Quantum.

 

 

For additional information or to make reservations, contact your travel agent, call 1800 754 500 or visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au or www.celebritycruises.com.au. Travel professionals can call 1300 754 500 or visit www.cruisingpower.com.

 

Royal Caribbean's 2014-15 Australasian season is on sale now

Voyager of the Seas

• Voyager of the Seas' multimillion dollar revitalisation
  brings cruising's latest innovative features Down Under
• Earlybird savings of up to $1,000 per person on offer 

May 14, 2013 – Royal Caribbean International has announced its biggest summer season to date, with its 2014-15 Australasian program on sale from today. The cruise line also revealed news that the biggest ship sailing Down Under, Voyager of the Seas, is scheduled to undergo a major multimillion-dollar "revitalisation" just ahead of the season. Voyager of the Seas will be joined by Rhapsody of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas – which themselves recently enjoyed over $80 million worth of improvements – in a three-ship fleet of superior superliners sailing local waters together for a third consecutive season.

"Royal Caribbean ships unfailingly deliver the "wow'" factor and in 2014-15, we will continue to bring the best and latest cruising innovations to the region.  We began with the revitalisations of Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas in 2011-12, and now we've come full circle as Voyager of the Seas will undergo a bow-to-stern refurbishment to offer even more amazing features.  We'll be able to share further details later this year – but you can be sure that guests will find many of the features found on our newest Oasis Class ships and more," said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Royal Caribbean International.

"More than 140,000 guests from over 100 countries will enjoy our new summer 2014-15 program of cruises. Guests will experience a truly international style of cruising on the three most modern, amenity-rich freshly-revitalised ships ever to be based in the region."

In the summer of 2014-15, Royal Caribbean will be offering Australian families, groups, couples and singles even more choice with three impressive ships and a wide range of itineraries to choose from. Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas will arrive in Sydney in October 2014 for the start of their season, and sister ship Voyager of the Seas will join them in December 2014. Guests can choose from 55 cruises – more than any other Sydney-based cruise line – ranging from two to 18 nights calling at 37 ports across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, with departures from September 2014 to April 2015.

Now is the time to book for these exciting cruises as Royal Caribbean is offering Earlybird savings of up to $1,000 per person for bookings made by 31 December 2013. With fares starting from $389 per person twin share and a seven-night South Pacific cruise from under $1,000 per person twin share, be quick as the cruises are bound to be sold out way before the deals' deadline. Other Earlybird deals include savings on bookings for balcony cabins, suites, children and third and fourth berths in a stateroom. 

Voyager of the Seas will arrive for her 2014-15 season fresh from her comprehensive revitalisation in October 2014. Guests can expect exciting onboard amenities, including those featured in Royal Caribbean's newest Oasis-class ships.  During her third season down under, Voyager of the Seas will sail from Sydney and Perth, offering four new itineraries along with some favourites:

• NEW A 13-night cruise from Singapore to Sydney on 25 November 2014 which calls at Darwin and Brisbane and has Earlybird fares which start from $1,549 per person.
• NEW Royal Caribbean has added an additional 3-night long weekend sampler cruise departing Sydney with Earlybird prices from $599 per person.
• NEW A spectacular Australia & New Zealand 16-night cruise from Sydney ending in Perth has Earlybird fares from $2,149 per person.
• Six Fiji cruises ranging in duration from 9 to 14 nights, including a NEW 14-night itinerary with Earlybird fares from $2,449 per person.
• One 14-night Pacific Island Fusion cruise which uniquely combine calls to New Caledonia and Fiji with New Zealand; Earlybird pricing for this cruise starts from $1,849 per person.
• Three 11-night cruises to New Zealand – offering a shorter 'express' itinerary than the traditional 14-night option on Radiance of the Seas – with Earlybird fares start from $1,429 per person.
• Voyager of the Seas will return to Asia on a 14-night sailing on 1 April 2015 from Perth to Singapore, via Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City. Guests can experience this cruise from just $1,849 per person if they book before 31 December 2013.

Radiance of the Seas will sail out of Sydney and Perth with a wide variety of seven- to 18-night itineraries to Tasmania, around Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia and Vanuatu. Often referred to as the "Foodies' Ship" for her unmatched 10 restaurants onboard, Radiance of the Seas had a ship-wide revitalisation in 2011 which can be viewed here. Her 2014-15 Australasian season features:

• Two 'Trans-Pacific' cruises between Honolulu and Sydney on 22 September 2014 (18 nights) and 19 April 2015 (17 nights) with calls in Tahiti and New Zealand. Earlybird fares for this cruise begin at $2,549 per person.
• Two 14-night New Zealand cruises with eight ports of call each plus scenic cruising of Milford Sound, Dusky Sound and Doubtful Sound – Earlybird fares start from $1,849 per person.
• Eight South Pacific island cruises ranging in duration from seven to 12 nights – including the inaugural call for Radiance of the Seas into Mare, New Caledonia on the 12-night Christmas cruise. If booked by 31 December 2013, fares start from $1,069 per person for a seven-night cruise departing 12 April 2015.
• Two full circumnavigations of Australia and New Zealand. Guests may choose to sail a 16-night 'Top End' cruise or a 17-night 'South Coast & New Zealand' sailing – or combine the cruises into one majestic 33-night voyage. Cruises depart 20 October 2014 and 26 February 2015 and Earlybird fares start from $2,109 per person for a 16-night Top End cruise.
• A seven-night Tasmania sailing on 13 January 2015 with fares from $1,419 per person.

Rhapsody of the Seas' season will feature a wide variety of itineraries including two new ones, ranging from two to 16 nights, sailing to Tasmania, Queensland, New Caledonia and Vanuatu. The ship also went through an extensive refurbishment in 2012 which added many new features including a restyled seven-deck high Centrum atrium where breathtaking aerial-acrobatic shows take place.  In 2014-15, Rhapsody of the Seas will sail the following cruises out of Sydney:

• Two 16-night 'Trans-Pacific' cruises between Hawaii and Sydney which travel through the South Pacific islands of Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and New Caledonia; departing on 16 September 2014 (ex Honolulu) and 17 April 2015 (ex Sydney) – Earlybird fares start from $1,969 per person.
• Ten South Pacific island cruises ranging in duration from 7 to 11 nights – including three calls to the port of Mare, New Caledonia for the first time. A seven night South Pacific cruise has Earlybird fares from $999 per person.
• NEW A 10-night 'Tasmania & South Australia' cruise which calls at Hobart (overnight), Burnie, Adelaide and Melbourne with fares from $1,309 per person if booked by 31 December 2013.
• NEW A two-night weekend sampler cruise departing Sydney on 3 October 2014 with Earlybird fares from $389 per person.
• Two 12-night South Pacific Fiji cruises New Caledonia, Fiji and Vanuatu; Earlybird fares start from $1,659 per person.
• Four 11-night Queensland sailings which call at Newcastle, Cairns, Airlie Beach and Brisbane. These cruises offer the best of Australia's northeast coast and include a unique 2-day, overnight call in Cairns – allowing plenty of time to explore the city's nightlife as well as the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.  Earlybird fares begin from just $1,459 per person.

Unique amenities already offered on board Royal Caribbean's Australasian fleet include an ice-skating rink, rock-climbing walls, a Royal Promenade of shops, mini-golf courses, water parks, Broadway-style theatre and full sized sports courts. For more details, please visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au .