To cheat or not to cheat....on our favorite cruise line.

This is a real dilemma for us.  Do we try another cruise line or do we continue to be exclusive to Royal Caribbean?  It's no secret we love Royal Caribbean.  It's the only line we've sailed on for the last 17 years.  We've got a lot invested in Royal Caribbean at this point, finally making it to Diamond Level of the Crown & Anchor Society.  Still, there is always that temptation to try another line.  This may be the time to do it as getting to the next Crown & Anchor level, Diamond Plus, will most likely take several years.

What draws me to other lines is the same thing that drew me to Royal Caribbean in the first place, the ships.  Royal Caribbean has been at the forefront of innovative ship design since the line's inception.  I absolutely love the Voyager, Freedom, and Oasis Class ships and I desperately want to try a Quantum ship (come on RCCL, get one down here to Florida already!).  That being said, there are some other interesting ships in development without the Crown & Anchor on the stack.

Currently, the most intriguing line is MSC.  They seem to have come out of nowhere and are making a play to go against the big boys of the industry.  They have several new builds in progress or in the planning stages, some of which sound amazing.  The first of those will be the MSC Seaside which looks very cool.   MSC also has a current offer to match whatever level you are on another line's loyalty program.  I've already taken advantage of that while it was available.  You can sign up for that loyalty match even if you are not currently booked on MSC.  Even if I never go, it's worth the 5 minutes it took to sign up, just in case.  I have family that has gone on MSC before and they have had good things to say.

MSC Seaside video:


Another option is NCL.  They have some interesting ships and features that are tempting.  They also offer some very nice incentives such as free specialty dining and free drink packages on some sailings.

Finally, there is Celebrity.  I've been on Celebrity in the past, the last time was 1998, but never on any of their more modern ships.  The plus is that they are part of Royal Caribbean so they match your loyalty status level.  The downside is that their programs are still separate even though they are technically the same company.  So points you earn on one line do not add to your total on the other.  Celebrity has some existing ships that interest me, the Solstice Class of ships in particular, and they have plans for a newer class, the Edge Class,  that will incorporate some very unique and innovative features into it's design.

Celebrity Edge Video:


I'm not entirely sure what we will do.  We will continue to sail on Royal Caribbean no matter what happens, as it is still our favorite cruise line, but there are always other fish in the sea.  The competition is heating up in the cruise industry, and that is a good thing.

NCL Orders "Breakaway Plus" Ship

Miami - Oct 17, 2012 ---

Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that it has reached an agreement with MEYER WERFT GMBH of Germany to build a new cruise vessel, for delivery in October 2015, with the option for a second ship for delivery in spring 2017. The new ship, at 163,000 gross tons and approximately 4,200 passenger berths, will be larger than the Company's Breakaway class ships currently under construction at MEYER WERFT and incorporate many of those vessels' unique design elements and innovations. With the project name "Breakaway Plus," this new vessel will be the largest in Norwegian's fleet.

The ship's contract price is approximately euro 700 million and the Company has export credit financing in place which was arranged and underwritten by KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH of Germany.

"Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway have garnered significant attention in the marketplace with their innovative design, rich stateroom mix and world-class amenities. Building on that momentum, along with MEYER WERFT's expertise and efficiency in the design and construction process, we are extending the excitement and anticipation with a new, larger edition Breakaway Plus class ship to further distinguish the Norwegian brand," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "This new order further solidifies our commitment to continued innovation in terms of the guest experience and will incorporate technical and environmental advances as well."

MEYER WERFT, based in Papenburg, Germany, is currently building Norwegian's two new 146,600 gross ton, 4,000-passenger Breakaway class vessels: Norwegian Breakaway, scheduled for delivery in late April 2013, and Norwegian Getaway, scheduled for delivery in mid-January 2014. Prior to the Breakaway class ships, MEYER WERFT built Norwegian's four Jewel-class ships ? Norwegian Gem delivered in 2007, Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Jade delivered in 2006, and Norwegian Jewel delivered in 2005. This new vessel on order, along with the option for the second ship, will be the tenth and eleventh that the Company will build with MEYER WERFT.

"We are pleased that Norwegian Cruise Line has decided to expand and enlarge its exciting Breakaway class at MEYER WERFT," said Bernard Meyer, managing partner of MEYER WERFT. "Our companies have a long history together and we appreciate Norwegian Cruise Line's continued commitment to MEYER WERFT."

Norwegian Cruise Line pioneered the concept of Freestyle Cruising and currently offers guests the freedom and flexibility to enjoy their cruise vacation on their own terms, including multiple dining venues, relaxed attire, a variety of accommodations and world-class entertainment. The Company took Freestyle Cruising to the next level with the introduction of Norwegian Epic in June 2010 and is continuing to innovate with the launch of "New York's Ship" Norwegian Breakaway in late April 2013. The company has revealed the ship's groundbreaking design, including The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place; a wide range of indoor and outdoor venues on three dynamic decks that will create a whole new complex at sea that enhances guests' connection with the ocean.

Norwegian Breakaway's entertainment will include three Broadway shows: five-time Tony nominated ROCK OF AGES; the dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR; and CIRQUE DREAMS & DINNER JUNGLE FANTASY. The famed comedy troupe The Second City, Howl at the Moon dueling pianos, and New York's own Slam Allen will also perform on the vessel. Celebrity Chef and Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian will also debut his first restaurant at sea on Norwegian Breakaway: Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian. The top decks of Norwegian Breakaway will feature the first Aqua Park at sea with five full-size water slides, including twin Free Fall slides, the first ever at sea, and a three-story sports complex that includes the largest ropes course at sea, a nine-hole miniature golf course, basketball court, rock climbing wall and more.

Norwegian Breakaway will also feature a rich mix of stateroom options including The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 Suites at the top of the ship in an exclusive, private key-card enclave and 22 additional Suites located throughout the ship. The innovative Studios are designed and priced for solo travelers. Other accommodations include Oceanview and Balcony staterooms, and Mini-Suites; along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa.

NCL's Norwegian Getaway to be Completed Early, Sail from Miami

Miami - Oct 2, 2012 ---

Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that Norwegian Getaway will be delivered in late January 2014, earlier than originally scheduled, and will sail a seven-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary from PortMiami year-round. Carrying 4,000 passengers, Norwegian Getaway will be the largest ship to home port year-round in Miami and will embody a unique Miami vibe.

“We are pleased that Meyer Werft will deliver this incredible vessel three months earlier than scheduled,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s president and chief executive officer. “Norwegian Getaway is going to offer a fantastic cruise opportunity sailing to the Eastern Caribbean.”

Following inaugural events in Europe, Norwegian Getaway will arrive in Miami in late January 2014 and begin her first Eastern Caribbean sailing on Saturday, February 1, 2014. Ports of call include: Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas. In addition, the company announced the ship’s Transatlantic sailing, which will depart Rotterdam, The Netherlands on January 16, 2014 and include a stop in London (Southampton), England where guests can also embark, followed by nine days at sea before arriving in Miami on January 27, 2014.

Norwegian Getaway will open for group block bookings to travel partners on October 8, 2012. Reservations will open to the public on October 22, 2012.

To accommodate Norwegian Getaway’s arrival in January, the company is modifying the itineraries of its existing ships in Miami during that time. Beginning February 2, 2014, Norwegian Epic will depart Miami on Sundays and sail a Western Caribbean itinerary. Ports of call include: Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico. Norwegian Sun will now depart Miami on her 10 and 11-day Southern Caribbean itineraries a day later than scheduled on Mondays and Thursdays. Norwegian Pearl, which had been scheduled to depart Miami on Sundays will be chartered from January 19 to March 21, 2014. In addition, four new seven-day Western Caribbean itineraries will be added on March 21, March 28, April 4 and April 11, 2014.

Currently being built at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Getaway will be 146,600 gross tons and offer a wide range of accommodations. The ship will also feature a rich mix of stateroom options including The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 Suites at the top of the ship in an exclusive, private key-card enclave and 22 additional Suites located throughout the ship; the innovative Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; a wide range of Oceanview staterooms, Balcony and Mini-Suites; along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa. Norwegian Getaway’s sister ship, Norwegian Breakaway, will begin sailing from her year-round home port of New York City in May 2013.

Video of Norwegian Star hitting Explorer of the Seas in Bermuda

Back on September 14, a strong storm hit Bermuda where NCL's Norwegian Star and Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas were docked at King's Wharf.  The winds were strong enough to break Norwegian Star from her moorings and send her drifting into Explorer.

As is the norm today, it was caught on video by more than one person.

Check it out:

New Norwegian Breakaway Info

NCL released some new info on the upcoming Norwegian Breakaway today.  Most interesting is the Waterfront which takes Royal Caribbean's boardwalk idea and ups it a notch by putting it on the side of the ship for a true waterfront experience. There will be dining and shops all along this boardwalk and probably some awesome scenery.

Here is the press release from NCL.

Norwegian Cruise Line today unveiled a major innovation in ship design: The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place on its newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway, launching in April 2013. This new concept includes an oceanfront boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants and bars, combined with three expansive, flowing decks of dining, bars, entertainment, gaming and more. The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place will take cruising to new heights and offer an unparalleled experience with a unique connection to the ocean.


"With our newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway, we are continuing our tradition of innovation with a brand new ship design that will provide our guests with a unique experience unlike anything else at sea," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "The heart of Norwegian Breakaway and the elements that truly set it apart are The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place. Guests will enjoy al fresco dining while admiring the beauty of the ocean, along with the excitement and exhilaration of three expansive action-packed decks, as everything is designed to flow seamlessly." Located on Deck 8, The Waterfront is a revolutionary outdoor experience that adds a whole new dimension to the line's signature Freestyle Cruising, by offering a number of seaside venues that feature breathtaking views and a sense of connection with the ocean. The hub of the ship is 678 Ocean Place, a space that uniquely flows, intertwines and connects three decks of daytime and nighttime amusements. There will be a total of 17* dining venues combined on both 678 Ocean Place and The Waterfront, along with 12* bars and lounges. Norwegian will also introduce a new dining concept on Norwegian Breakaway, Ocean Blu, the line's first ever all-seafood restaurant, which will include a premium raw bar, along with a separate sushi bar.


The Waterfront
The Waterfront will feature eight outdoor dining and lounging options, including signature Norwegian favorites like Moderno Churrascaria; Cagney's Steakhouse; La Cucina; Shaker's Cocktail Bar; Malting's Beer & Whiskey Bar; and the newest addition, Ocean Blu on The Waterfront, with outdoor seating and a special takeaway menu. The Waterfront will also feature another first for Norwegian - a gelato bar serving a selection of flavors of the delectable frozen treat. Guests will enjoy this creamy confection as they take a leisurely stroll along The Waterfront. A yet-to-be-announced entertainment venue will also have an outdoor space.


678 Ocean Place
On Deck 8, 678 Ocean Place connects the excitement of The Waterfront outdoor spaces with interior dining venues for Moderno; Cagney's; Shaker's; La Cucina; Malting's and Ocean Blu, including the raw and sushi bars. An elegant modern take on an ocean-inspired theme with a glamorous feel, Ocean Blu is the newest addition to Norwegian's Freestyle Dining lineup. Featuring a premium raw bar and a sushi bar, Ocean Blu will offer seafood lovers a culinary treasure. "In a recent guest survey, our guests chose a seafood restaurant as the number one type of restaurant they would like on board our ships," said Sheehan. "We listened to that feedback when planning the dining on Norwegian Breakaway and will launch Ocean Blu as our newest signature restaurant concept."


La Cucina celebrates the Tuscan countryside and will continue to serve Norwegian's delicious Italian dishes to guests who choose dine either al fresco on the outdoor patio on The Waterfront, in the main restaurant or the interior terrace option, giving guests the opportunity to dine along the interior walkway beneath twinkling lanterns, exposed wooden beams and greenery.


Moderno Churrascaria is Norwegian's signature Brazilian-style steakhouse. Whether guests dine indoors or out, they will feast from a huge salad bar, followed by a variety of grilled and slow-roasted meats that are carved tableside by passadors. Overlooking the Manhattan Room is another Norwegian signature establishment, Cagney's Steakhouse, which will feature succulent grilled steaks, perfectly cooked double cut lamb chops and other steakhouse favorites. Guests will dine in style amidst warm wood tones as they enjoy watching the chefs prepare their meals in the open kitchen. Located between Cagney's and Moderno, Prime Meridian will offer guests the opportunity to order a signature cocktail and soak in the action taking place around them on 678 Ocean Place. Guests will also find retail outlets, the photo gallery, and the Humidor Cigar Lounge on Deck 8. A three-story open atrium with an exquisite LED chandelier with light changing effects will serve as the centerpiece of 678 Ocean Place with openings to all three decks and glass staircases connecting the levels.


Spanning more than 18,000 square feet on Deck 7, the contemporary Breakaway Casino will have a stylish sophistication created by the use of rich materials, luxurious ornamental lighting and highly decorative artwork including gold tiles and upscale finishes. Breakaway Casino will offer guests the opportunity to try their luck on more than 300 of the latest slot machines; along with 26 gaming tables featuring poker, black jack, roulette and craps. With the most rewarding Casinos At Sea Players Club program, there will be something for everyone, from the novice to the high roller. Bar 21, located adjacent to the Casino, is a stunning, intimate bar featuring video poker and multiple plasma television screens.


Reminiscent of a private New York City supper club, The Manhattan Room is a complimentary restaurant on Deck 7 that will feature a dance floor as its focal point. As guests dine on cuisine that reflects the elegant and romantic nature of the room, they will enjoy live music and dancing. The two-story high restaurant showcases floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows looking aft.


Due to the popularity of the noodle bar on Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway will feature Shanghai's Noodle Bar, the largest noodle bar at sea. This exciting dining concept will offer all counter seating around an open kitchen and will serve traditional Chinese noodles, wok-fried dishes and dim sum.


Another guest favorite, O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar & Grill, returns on Norwegian Breakaway. This complimentary 24-hour a day neighborhood sports bar and restaurant will serve classic American favorites and comfort food. It will feature a giant two-story screen, perfect for watching sports and movies, along with miniature bowling, pool and air hockey tables and interactive games.


A popular hotspot on several Norwegian ships, Bliss Ultra Lounge has been re-designed on Norwegian Breakaway to resemble a true hotspot, similar to trendy New York clubs. Guests will feel the excitement as they walk through the LED-lit tunnel entrance to the illuminated bar, LED walls and pulsating dance floor where they will dance the night away. Savor, one of the three complimentary main dining options on Norwegian Breakaway, will feature cuisine that is traditional with a contemporary flair. Across from Savor, is where guests will find Taste, another complimentary main dining venue. Taste will serve a variety of culinary delights to please every palate. Both restaurants feature clean lines and upscale, contemporary décor. Located between Savor and Taste is Mixx Bar, the perfect, pre- or post-dinner gathering place, with a modern twist to a classical design.


Norwegian's signature Teppanyaki restaurant will continue to dazzle guests on Norwegian Breakaway with the addition of a traditional Japanese rock garden, featuring bamboo plants and bonsai trees to promote a pleasing aesthetic ambiance. With 96 seats surrounding 12 flat top grills, Teppanyaki chefs will showcase their knife-wielding skills while cooking exhibition-style Japanese cuisine. Guests will be amazed by the masterful chefs while they enjoy an appetizing meal.


Le Bistro, Norwegian's signature French restaurant, will feature an elegant indoor setting, along with a European sidewalk-style dining opportunity which will overlook the social hub of the ship, 678 Ocean Place. Guests will marvel at the three-story cascading LED chandelier above them, along with the constant flow of people as they dine on classic French favorites.


Within the Atrium, located on Deck 6, guests will find a two-story video wall along with the Café and Bar at The Atrium. The Café will offer specialty coffees and fresh baked treats. The Bar at The Atrium will feature mixed drinks, along with a self-service wine bar. The Shore Excursion Desk, Internet Café and Art Gallery will be located in close proximity to the Atrium, along with two meeting rooms, card room and library.


Additional dining options and bars not located within 678 Ocean Place will be announced in late April. There will also be a number of exciting entertainment venues located within 678 Ocean Place that will be revealed at a later date this spring.


In order to showcase all of Norwegian Breakaway's features, the company launched the Norwegian Breakaway microsite today at http://www.breakaway.ncl.com. Renderings are available for download.

Entering service in April 2013, Norwegian Breakaway will sail from her year-round homeport of New York City to Bermuda in the summer and The Bahamas & Florida and The Caribbean in the winter. To book a cruise on Norwegian Breakaway, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 800-327-7030 or visit www.ncl.com. Comment on today's announcement on our Facebook page: www.ncl.com/facebook.

*One dining venue and one bar will be announced at a later date, along with all of the entertainment venues.

About Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator in cruise travel with a 45-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising which has revolutionized the industry by allowing guests more freedom and flexibility.

Today, Norwegian invites consumers to "Cruise Like a Norwegian" on one of its 11 purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on some of the newest and most contemporary ships at sea. The Company has two 4,000-passenger vessels, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, on order for delivery in April 2013 and April 2014.

Norwegian's largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, debuted in June 2010 and has been named "Best Overall Cruise Ship" by the readers of Travel Weekly. Norwegian Cruise Line is the official cruise line of Blue Man Group, appearing for the first time at sea on Norwegian Epic, as well as the official cruise line of Legends in Concert, Second City® Comedy Troupe, Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos, and Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids. Cirque Dreams? & Dinner is also featured on board Norwegian Epic as the first show of its kind at sea under a big top.

High resolution, downloadable images are available at www.ncl.com/pressroom. For further information on Norwegian Cruise Line, visit www.ncl.com, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, watch us on YouTube, or contact us in the U.S. and Canada at 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784).

Norwegian Breakaway To Homeport In NYC

NCL announced that their upcoming Norwegian Breakaway will be the largest ship to ever homeport in NYC. The 144,000 ton ship, currently under construction at Meter Werft in Germany, will begin a series of 7 night cruises from New York to Bermuda on May 12, 2013.  The ship will spend three full days in Bermuda and three days at sea.

Here is the full press release from NCL:

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Norwegian Cruise Line CEO Kevin Sheehan today announced that Norwegian Cruise Line's new state-of-the-art 4,000 passenger ship, Norwegian Breakaway, will make New York City its year-round home port. Beginning in May 2013, Norwegian Breakaway - which will be the largest ship ever to home port in the City - will replace Norwegian Star, and embark on a minimum of 88 cruises from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal through March 31, 2015. The ship calls will bring an estimated 140,000 additional embarking passengers into New York City over two years, resulting in an estimated $35 million in additional direct spending. Mayor Bloomberg and Norwegian Cruise Line were joined at the announcement in the Manhattan Cruise Terminal by New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky and NYC & Co CEO George Fertitta.

Out-of-town visitors spent $31 billion last year, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs in our restaurants, shops, hotels, and cultural institutions," said Mayor Bloomberg. "By making New York City home to its newest and largest ship, Norwegian Cruise Line is further confirming our standing as a top cruise destination and a place that tourists from around the world want to visit."

"New York is not only one of our top markets, but also my hometown," said Norwegian Cruise Line Chief Executive Officer Kevin Sheehan. "Therefore, I am thrilled to announce that New York will be the year-round home for our next generation Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Breakaway. In addition, we are offering an exciting inaugural summer itinerary cruising to the beautiful island of Bermuda, a much sought-after summer destination."

"Norwegian Breakaway will be the largest ship ever to homeport in New York City, bringing more passengers, generating more spending, and creating more jobs in our City," said New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky. "Thank you to Norwegian Cruise Line for their commitment to New York City, and for making Manhattan Cruise Terminal the homeport for this amazing new state-of-the-art ship."

"New York City remains one of the top ten cruise ports in the United States, and we thank Norwegian Cruise Line for making Manhattan Cruise Terminal Norwegian Breakaway's year-round home port," said George Fertitta CEO of NYC & Company, New York City's marketing and tourism arm. "Approximately 583,000 cruise passengers embarked in New York City in 2010 and that number continues to grow helping the City to report record breaking tourism numbers year after year. We hope Norwegian Breakaway and all of the Norwegian Cruise Line passengers will have an opportunity to visit New York City pre- or post-cruise and discover the energy and vibrancy of all five boroughs."

Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to homeport year-round in New York City beginning in 2003. Since then, the company has been committed to bringing its newest and largest ships to the Big Apple, with two ships calling in New York City since 2005. In 2013 alone, Norwegian Breakaway is expected to make 34 calls at Manhattan Cruise Terminal (MCT). In addition, Norwegian Gem will continue to call year-round at MCT, with an expected 47 calls, and Norwegian Star will make 15 calls in 2013 before being replaced. In total, Norwegian Cruise Line ships will bring approximately 285,000 embarking passengers into New York City in 2013, generating approximately $70 million in direct spending in the City - a $13.5 million increase due to the additional passengers on Norwegian Breakaway.

Currently under construction at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Breakaway will be 144,017 gross tons and is scheduled for delivery in April 2013. Following inaugural events, the ship will sail a series of 22 seven-day cruises from New York to Bermuda beginning May 12, 2013 through Oct 6, 2013. Departing on Sundays, the ship will spend three full days in Bermuda, along with three days at sea.

"The Government of Bermuda is honored to be the destination of choice for the inaugural sailings of Norwegian Breakaway for 2013. As a long-standing partner with Norwegian Cruise Line, we look forward to the launch of this new and innovative cruise product," said the Hon. Terry Lister, Minister of Transport. "We know their passengers will enjoy the cruise itinerary and the hospitality of the Bermudian people."

Norwegian Breakaway's New York to Bermuda cruises are scheduled to go on sale to Latitudes members, Norwegian's frequent guests, on Friday, October 14, 2011 and to the public on Monday, October 17, 2011. Also, as part of its Partners First commitment, Norwegian will open Norwegian Breakaway's sailings for group block bookings exclusively for travel partners on Monday, October 10, 2011. Travel partners wishing to block a group should call Norwegian at 800-327-7030.

Information on Norwegian Breakaway's accommodations and itineraries can be found at www.ncl.com/breakaway. To book a cruise on Norwegian Breakaway, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 800-327-7030 or visit www.ncl.com.

NCL Orders Two New Ships

NCL has confirmed that it has placed orders with Meyer Werft for two new ships to be delivered in 2013 and 2014.  The ships will be 143,500 gross tons and carry around 4000 passengers.  They are not copies of Norwegian Epic but are instead next generation Freestyle ships based on the Norwegian Jem, Jewel, Pearl, and Jade family.

They will be the largest passenger ships ever built in Germany.

Carnival and NCL Announce No More Discounts

Last week, Carnival announced that they were following in the footsteps of Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises by deciding to not allow discounting of their fares by travel agents.  Now, NCL has also joined the party.

I guess that agents selling those lines will have to get creative as they have done with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.  No longer will they be able to undercut the line's pricing but they can offer incentives like the $225 onboard credit and free spa treatment we received when we booked our rapidly approaching cruise on Liberty of the Seas.

It's kid of a shame though as the days of huge discounts and great deals from travel agents look to be a thing of the past.  Looks like it was inevitable that other lines would go that way since, after some initial uproar, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity bookings were not adversely affected by their decision to go this route a couple of years ago.

SS United States Saved!

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that the SS United States Conservancy group has reached an agreement to purchase the historic liner from Norwegian Cruise Line.  NCL has owned the ship for several years and had originally planned to move it from it's berth in Philadelphia, where it has sat rusting away since 1996, and refurbish it as part of their NCL America brand.  Unfortunately the NCL America experiment has failed and they had recently been taking offers from scrapyards.

The deal to purchase the ship for $3million includes a generous donation from Gerry Lenfest who is a local Philadelphia philanthropist.  He has pledged to donate over $5million dollars to help pay for the $60,000 monthly bill to keep the ship docked in Philadelphia.  The sale is still not finalized though as the Environmental Protection Agency must investigate the ship and determine what toxic materials are onboard and how that would be dealt with in any renovation project.  Since the ship is over 60 years old, there is probably a lot of bad stuff onboard like asbestos.

It is possible that the ship, once restored, may become a permanently docked floating hotel like the Queen Mary however the restoration will not be easy as the ship had been completely gutted and all interior fittings auctioned when she was taken out of service.

I hope this gets done.  It will be great to see this former shining symbol of American engineering and industrial might restored to her former glory.

Norwegian Epic Delayed

Well, it looks like the dark cloud of bad luck surrounding the Norwegian Epic is still hanging around.  Currently she is in Rotterdam which is her first of a few publicity stops before crossing the Atlantic to the US.  Unfortunately for her passengers and NCL, she will be departing from Rotterdam late and at a reduced speed which will put her over seven hours late for her next port of call, Southampton.

The reason for the delay, technical problems arising from the ship's propeller shaft.  Bad news.

Norwegian Epic Successfully Completes Sea Trials

With a string of bad luck and suspicious fires behind her (hopefully forever), NCL's Norwegian Epic completed her second and final round of sea trials over the weekend.  Upon her return to the shipyard, work continued to make her ready for her official turnover to NCL on Thursday June 17th.

Following the turnover she will head to Rotterdam for some publicity events and then Southampton next week where she will then depart on her transatlantic trip to New York on June 24th.  She will arrive in NYC on July 1st, and dock at pier 88 where she will be christened by Reba McEntire on July 2nd.  Following that, Norwegian Epic will host the Macy's July 4th fireworks event on NBC in New York harbor.

Once all that is done she will head to Miami to begin alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings from July 10, 2010 through April 2011.  Starting in May 2011 she will be sailing the Western Mediterranean from Barcelona through October 2011.

Another fire on Norwegian Epic

Apparently there has been a rash of fires on board NCL's Norwegian Epic as she nears completion at the shipyard in France.  There was one on May 4 that I wrote about and shortly after another was reported on the higher decks near the waterslide.  Now, just this weekend on June 6th, a third fire was reported as the shipyard workers and their families were taking a tour of the almost finished ship.

Apparently the fire started on deck 8 in an air conditioning room and it forced the evacuation of hundreds of people.  Luckily there were no injuries and the damage was minimal but that isn't where this story ends.  French officials are treating the fire as suspicious and there have been statements to the effect that it appears to have been deliberately set.  The investigation is ongoing.

NCL has announced that the ships delivery and inaugural events will proceed as scheduled.  So far this ship is off to an interesting start with this string of bad luck.  Let's hope it ends here.

Fire on Norwegian Epic

Monday night a fire broke out onboard NCL's Norwegian Epic while she was getting her final touches at the shipyard in France.  The fire is reported to have started at around 11PM in the aft section of the ship on deck 4.  Firefighters quickly got the blaze under control and managed to keep it from spreading to other areas of the ship.  Damage seems to be isolated mainly to the ships wiring and no injuries were reported.  The cause of the fire is under investigation but work on the ship has resumed.  She is still scheduled to be delivered on June 15.

Norwegian Epic news

NCL recently announced some more details on the soon to enter service Norwegian Epic.  When she sets sail, Epic will feature the largest spa and fitness center of any ship afloat with a total of 31,000 square feet.  Also, passengers will have their choice of 21 dining venues and a total of 11 will be free of charge.

Here are the press releases:

Norwegian Epic To Feature Largest Spa At Sea


Norwegian Epic To Offer 11 Complimentary Dining Options

Norwegian Epic ahead of schedule

Another in the list of ships that are going to be complete ahead of schedule, Norwegian Cruise Line announced that their new Norwegian Epic will be completed early and they have added a new voyage. Her inaugural transatlantic voyage will now be on June 24, 2010 and she will arrive in New York on July 1, 2010. Also, a new voyage has been added departing from Miami on July 10, 2010 which is one week earlier than previously scheduled.

Norwegian Epic floated out

NCL's latest entry into the world's ugliest ship contest, the upcoming Norwegian Epic, has been floated out of drydock in France marking a milestone in it's build. Scheduled to be completed by May 2010, the ship will be the largest and most innovative in the NCL fleet.

Definitely an exciting ship, if I could get past the looks.

NCL's F3 ship is now Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Cruise Lines has announced that their upcoming 150,000 ton F3 project will be named the Norwegian Epic. The ship, which was to be one of a pair of ships, will debut in May 2010 and sail Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami. All the revolutionary stateroom design and onboard amenities already announced have apparently survived the conflict between the company and the shipyard which resulted in some design changes and the cancellation of the second ship.

Booking are scheduled to begin in March.

Norwegian's F3 project back on schedule - Sort of

Norwegian Cruise Line has apparently settled their issues with the shipyard that will be building their new F3 project. There were serious disagreements regarding changes in design and rising costs. As a result, there will be only one ship built instead of a pair. The decision to cancel the second ship arise from the poor economic conditions as well as the additional costs associated with building the first ship.

Luckily for both sides, the second ship which was already under construction in France, had not progressed very far.

NCL's F3 project in limbo.

Rumors are circulating that there is a dispute developing between NCL and Aker Yards of France over the construction of the new F3 line of ships from NCL. The F3 ships promise to feature revolutionary changes in cruise ship design. That is, if they ever get built. The keel for the first F3 ship was laid in April and delivery was scheduled for March 2010.

Since the contract was signed for the first two ships in the family, there have been major changes relating to NCL and the ships. Originally, the ships were ordered by Star Cruises, NCL's parent company. Star then decided to move the ships over to NCL's fleet. After that Star Cruises sold about half of NCL to Apollo Mgmt who decided that they wanted to make some changes to the design of the ships requiring time and money of both the cruise line and the shipyard.

NCL has no comment on the situation but the rumors persist. Some even suggest that Apollo Mgmt has decided to cancel the project all together and take a $200 million penalty instead of having to pay the full price of the ships at about $1 billion each.

So, at best, it looks like there will be some delay in the delivery date. Worst case scenario is that these ships may never get built. I hope that's not the case. They sounded pretty interesting.

NCL reveals more info on F3 ships

Yesterday, the same day that Royal Caribbean revealed more info on their Oasis of the Seas, NCL decided to also reveal additional info on their upcoming ships codenamed F3. Unfortunate for them. There are however, some interesting features coming on these new ships. NCL is certainly making a play at becoming an industry influencing line, like Royal Caribbean, when it comes to amenities and features on their ships.

NCL already released info on their new cabin design that will be employed on these 150,000 ton 4,200 passenger ships. They will feature unconventional non box shaped design with open bathroom areas.

Yesterday's event revealed features like the POSH beach club, a private area with a pool, waterfall, beds and cabanas. Early mornings feature yoga classes and other health treatments. Also during mornings, you can "rehab" from partying the night before with bloody marys, mimosas, and salty dogs. Afternoons are pool time and late nights it becomes an outdoor night club.

Halo will be an exclusive bar and lounge for VIPs and passengers in the Garden Villas. It will feature private gaming tables and there will be a fee for "regular" passengers.

Spice H2O will be the pool area which will also serve as a dining location and outdoor theater. It will be Asian themed and at nights there will be music and dancing. The pool floor will be able to rise as a cover allowing it to be used as a dance floor. The concept sounds sort of like Royal Caribbean's AquaTheatre on Oasis of the Seas.

Most interesting is the inclusion of a frozen bar like what you might find somewhere in Scandinavia. The Ice Bar will be an actual frozen bar contained in a vault maintained at 17F degrees. Passengers will be wearing fur coats and mittens to enter. Should be nice after a hot day.

In a controversial move, NCL also announced that there will be admission fees for all of the venues aside from Spice H2O. They claim that it will be for crowd control since most of the venues have limited seating. We'll see how that goes over.

Here is the link to the full story from CruiseCritic.