Alaskan Dream Cruises, one of the newest small-ship cruise lines sailing in Southeast Alaska, is announcing three new itineraries, additional ports of call and ship renovations.

Alaskan Dream Cruises is owned and operated by an Alaska Native family in Sitka, Alaska. The company will operate its second season from May through September 2012.

The 42-passenger Alaskan Dream will sail on three new itineraries in 2012: an eight-day trip that focuses on many less-explored destinations, including Hobart Bay and Kasaan, and two more comprehensive 11- and 13-day trips through the Inside Passage.

The three itineraries also include new ports of call for the cruise line: Ketchikan, Skagway, Haines, Thorne Bay, Kasaan, Wrangell and Gustavus.

The new eight-day Alaska’s Inside Passage Sojourn itinerary travels from Sitka, a community rooted in Alaska’s Russian history, and ends in Ketchikan, a popular fishing and arts community in the area. In between, travelers are treated to the lesser known destinations of the Inside Passage. The village of Kake claims the world’s largest totem pole; visitors are greeted in Petersburg by children who perform a Norwegian folk dance; Kasaan is home to the only remaining Haida clan house in Alaska; Thorne Bay was once the largest logging camp in the world; and Misty Fjords offers glacier-sculpted cliffs that staff say rival the awe-inspiring scenery of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. In addition, Hobart Bay is an adventure base camp visited exclusively by Alaskan Dream Cruises, offering sea kayaking, all-terrain vehicle tours and small Zego sport boat excursions. Rates for the cruises begin at $2,269.

The Alaska’s Southeast Explorer 11-day itinerary also traverses the waters between Ketchikan and Sitka, but expands the route to include the capital city of Juneau; Glacier Bay National Park and Gustavus, the small community that sits at the entrance of the park; Skagway, known for its gold rush history; Haines a small fishing community with an expansive bald eagle preserve; and Wrangell, one of the oldest towns in Alaska. Travelers also spend an evening on Colt Island at Orca Point Lodge, which is available only to guests of Alaskan Dream Cruises and its sister company Allen Marine Tours, for an Alaska salmon and king crab dinner. Rates for the cruises begin at $3,399.

The 13-day Alaska’s Glacier Bay and Inside Passage Voyage follows a similar route as the 11-day cruise, but spends additional time off the beaten path. Guests explore Windham Bay from a private wilderness retreat that offers fishing, sea kayaking and two-person outboard motor boats. A full day is spent whale watching and viewing other marine life among the Inian Islands and near Point Adolphus, a world-famous feeding area for endangered humpback whales. Guests will also visit Lake Eva near Sitka for a hike on a newly rebuilt trail in Tongass National Forest, the nation’s largest. Rates for the cruises begin at $3,989.

Complimentary shore excursions that range from adventure activities to cultural experiences are included in all of the company’s cruises. In addition, local naturalists and Alaska Native guides conduct onboard presentations on the rich culture, flora and fauna of the region.

“Our itineraries and local connections allow travelers to get under the surface of Southeast Alaska and really explore the small towns and under-the-radar destinations,” said Michael Wien, Alaskan Dream Cruises’ vice president of sales and marketing. “We are Alaskans showing off our state and sharing the places that are truly special to us.”

Alaskan Dream Cruises also renovated both of its ships to welcome guests in time for the new season. Its 42-passenger Alaskan Dream, formerly the Executive Explorer, was redone with new carpet and paint, closets were added in passenger cabins and the forward lounge was revamped.

The Admiralty Dream, formerly the Spirit of Columbia, was give a new, lighter color scheme in the cabins and public areas, as well as new carpet. The forward lounge was redesigned to give guests more space to relax and connect with each other.

 - From Cruise Industry News

Norwegian Cruise Line and Rascal Flatts, one of the hottest groups in country music, announced today that the band will perform an exclusive, first ever concert at sea on board Norwegian Spirit’s February 26, 2012 sailing from New Orleans to the Western Caribbean.

The intimate acoustic performance will take place when the ship is docked in Cozumel on March 2, 2012.

“It’s not even Christmas yet, but we are already looking forward to next spring when we make our first-ever appearance on a cruise ship,” said Joe Don Rooney of Rascal Flatts. “We will perform and meet fans aboard Norwegian Spirit as it’s docked in Cozumel, Mexico on March 2. We hope you will join us!”

To promote the performance and the band’s current Top 5, “Easy,” which has just been certified gold with 500,000 digital downloads, radio stations in more than 20 top markets, including Canada, are holding on-air contests over the next several weeks for lucky listeners and their guests to win the seven-night cruise on Norwegian Spirit, along with airfare to New Orleans, and receive VIP tickets to the concert, including a special meet and greet with the band.

In addition, Norwegian Cruise Line is offering guests on board the ship the opportunity to see the concert with two different ticket options available for purchase. The VIP package is available for $150 per person and gives guests the chance to get up close and personal with the band during a private cocktail reception, where they will have the opportunity to meet and greet with band members Jay, Joe Don and Gary, have their photo taken with the band and receive an autographed souvenir. Standard tickets are available for $50 per person and guarantee a seat in the ship’s Stardust Theater for the concert.

Rascal Flatts has reached heights and achieved milestones reserved for country music’ elite. They have set more venue attendance records than any country act en route to ticket sales of six million and counting. They have sold 20 million albums, 25 million digital downloads and earned 13 #1 singles. With the #1 debut on the Country Albums sales chart of Nothing Like This, Rascal Flatts becomes one of only four country acts to debut six consecutive studio albums at #1.

They have won over 40 awards from the ACM, CMA, AMA and People’s Choice, among others, and they have received that ultimate honor for those who have impacted the culture —  a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Travelers interested in an Alaskan adventure cruise this summer aboard American Safari Cruises newly acquired yacht, the upscale 86-guest Safari Endeavour, have an extra incentive to book a trip now. Guests reserving a stateroom between December 1, 2011 and January 31, 2012, receive a complimentary hotel night pre- or post-cruise at Juneau’s Baranof Hotel.

The Safari Endeavour will cruise in Southeast Alaska from May to September.  Weeklong cruises roundtrip from Juneau, Alaska include two days exploration in Glacier Bay National Park and expedition cruising in Icy Strait, Frederick Sound, Thomas Bay, Chichagof Island, Ford’s Terror and Endicott Arm. Inclusive fares start at US$4,795 per person.  Two-week cruises from Seattle to Juneau and reverse will be offered in spring and fall.

“To kick off our first season with the Safari Endeavor and our new partnership with the Baranof Hotel, we are offering guests a complimentary hotel stay in Juneau,” said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing.  “This is an extra incentive to book the Safari Endeavour’s inaugural season in Alaska now.”

Travelers who make a reservation for summer 2012 during the two month period of December and January receive a one night hotel stay per stateroom—a value of US$380 for two people.  The historic Westmark Baranof Hotel is centrally located in downtown Juneau near shops and the waterfront.

The Safari Endeavour is undergoing an extensive renovation project to add American Safari Cruises’ exceptional comfort and refined atmosphere on board. Five stateroom categories include three Master, 21 Commander, 12 Captain, three Admiral and four Commodore Suites. The suites will be created by merging two former staterooms and adding new step-out balconies.  All staterooms have one or two outside view windows. Other amenities being added to the ship include a bow-mounted underwater camera to stream video to interior viewing monitors, two massage rooms, two hot tubs, sauna, exercise equipment, wine bar and a library. An all-American crew of 34 will ensure attentive service with a guest-crew ratio of 2.5 to 1.

American Safari Cruises’ active, adventure cruises allow freedom to engage in many activities. Kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available for excursions. Skiff rides will explore shoreline, wildlife and glaciers up close.  Expert naturalists and guides lead excursions on land and sea. An enhanced program of educational presentations will be presented in the salon. In Glacier Bay, a National Park Ranger boards the ship for two days to lead hiking and kayaking excursions and provide interpretation of the area’s history, culture and geography.

The inclusive cruises include all from-the-yacht activities and equipment; transfers; hand-crafted meals; fine wine, premium spirits and microbrews; a massage and all port charges, taxes and fees.

Lindblad Expeditions is introducing  the ultimate Alaska expedition, an Alaskan adventure and exploration that will give guests a comprehensive window into the sights, sounds and creatures found on majestic glaciers, old-growth forests and now, for the first time – under the sea.

The new undersea program will commemorate Lindblad’s 30^th year exploring in Alaska by sharing a part of the region they have never shared with guests before.  Featured on each Alaska expedition, the Undersea Specialist will dive to depths of 40-80 feet, employing strong lights and an HD camera to capture the secret world that lurks just beneath where passengers are sailing. These discoveries will be shared in special presentations that showcase the entire breadth of the ocean’s intricate and interconnected food chains, from the tiniest organisms on the sea floor to giant octopi, to hulking sea lions to the whales that passengers see majestically breaching the surface or regularly hear vocalizing over the ship’s PA thanks to a state-of-the-art deployable hydrophone.

The addition of an Undersea Specialist to an Expedition Team that features three Naturalists, an Expedition Leader and a Lindblad-National Geographic Certified Photo Instructor to help guests capture the remarkable sights in true National Geographic style, further enhances Alaskan Lindblad’s expedition team.

Lindblad Expeditions’ Alaska program includes the 8-day Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness and 12-day Alaska, British Columbia and San Juan Islands itineraries from May through September, 2012 on the National Geographic Sea Bird and the National Geographic Sea Lion.  The small ships hold 62-guests and easily find passage into areas no other ships can travel.  A variety of special kayak and Zodiac excursions will be offered that will explore Alaska at its very wildest, including up-close-and-personal encounters with sea lions, soaring eagles and feeding humpback whales.  The guests enjoy special privileges to Tongass National Forest under a Forest Service Special Use Permit, and the expertise of a Tlingit Interpreter aboard in Glacier Bay National Park who will offer insight in to the Alaskan landscape.  And the Lindblad-National Geographic alliance further ensures that this ultimate expedition could be pulled directly from the pages of National Geographic magazine.

Book Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness by March 31, 2012 and receive free roundtrip air between Seattle and Alaska on select May and June departures.  Rates for Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness begin at $5,990 per person based on double occupancy for a Category 1 cabin, and $7,690 for Alaska, British Columbia and San Juan Islands.

For more information or to book your Alaska experience today, visit www.expeditions.com or call 1-800-EXPEDITION.

The visual feast that comes to life in the pages of Celebrity Cruises’ new lifestyle book, Excite the Senses, has inspired a new series of food-and-wine-themed cruises that will offer guests a unique, behind-the-scenes experience and a rare opportunity to get to know the Celebrity culinary team through intimate demonstrations, tastings and dinners. Developed and hosted by the talent behind the cruise line’s award-winning culinary program, Celebrity’s “Excite the Senses Culinary Theme Cruises” will kick off on March 24, 2012, on a seven-night sailing headlined by Celebrity’s Master Chef and Vice President of Culinary Operations, the James Beard Foundation Award-nominated Jacques Van Staden.

“Every Celebrity cruise is a modern luxury vacation, and a large part of that is the culinary experience,” said Van Staden. “The culinary-themed activities at the heart of Celebrity’s Excite the Senses cruises are designed to appeal to everyone from the novice to the sophisticated oenophile – just like the book itself – and shine a spotlight on all the elements of Celebrity’s culinary experience, from outstanding service to innovative menus to cutting-edge trends and more.”

Each of the eight cruises scheduled for 2012 will showcase the various culinary disciplines featured in Excite the Senses – “Captivate” (dining), “Accentuate” (wine, spirits, coffee and tea), and “Illuminate” (entertaining). Each voyage will be led by a member of Celebrity’s culinary team, along with partners from Celebrity’s award-winning wine and spirits program.

The March 24 cruise, which will take place on the Celebrity Eclipse, will feature not only Van Staden, but also the other members of Celebrity’s culinary team who will later host their own cruises. Special guest “The Liquid Chef” and Master Mixologist Junior Merino also will share his expertise, along with various partners from a variety of wineries. The kickoff cruise will offer guests many special culinary-themed activities including a cocktail and Qsine pairing dinner hosted by Van Staden and Merino, a “Corporate Star Chefs” cooking demonstration and question-and-answer session with Celebrity’s food and beverage team, mixology demonstrations, hands-on cooking classes with chefs in the galley and an Excite the Senses book signing event, and more.

“The Excite the Senses cruises offer even more insight into the amazing operation here at Celebrity Cruises, where the food and beverage experience is an essential part of every guest’s vacation, and will help them discover ways to enhance not only their palates but also their home entertaining,” said Scott Steenrod, Associate Vice President, Food and Beverage Operations.

Activities during Excite the Senses Culinary Theme Cruises will range from dinners in Celebrity’s chic specialty restaurants, cooking demonstrations focused on the importance of using locally sourced ingredients, wine tastings, sessions on how to host elegant afternoon teas and unique cocktail parties, ways to enliven holiday traditions with modern twists, tips for creative table settings, and more.

Celebrity’s 2012 Excite the Senses Culinary Theme Cruises’ dates and hosts are:

• March 24 – 7-night Caribbean cruise on Celebrity Eclipse, roundtrip from Miami, Florida, hosted by Van Staden and team; activities will focus on food, wine, mixology, and entertaining at home.
• April 10 – 12-night Caribbean cruise on the brand-new Celebrity Silhouette, roundtrip from Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey, hosted by Celebrity Cruises Traveling Pastry Chef Thierry Houlbert; activities will focus on baking, pastries and sweets.
• May 5 – 8-night wine cruise on Celebrity Century from San Diego, California, to Vancouver, British Columbia, hosted by Celebrity Cruises Senior Traveling Executive Chef W. Thomas Szymanski; activities will build on the popular cruises with an even greater focus on food.
• May 27 – 7-night Bermuda cruise on Celebrity Summit – which will have emerged from an extensive drydock revitalization known as ‘Solsticizing’ several months prior – sailing roundtrip from Cape Liberty and hosted by Celebrity Cruises Traveling Executive Chef Steve van der Merwe; activities will be themed around culinary exploration and Bermuda culinary traditions.
• June 29 – 7-night Alaska cruise on Celebrity Infinity, which has just been “Solsticized,” roundtrip from Seattle and hosted by Celebrity Cruises Director of Culinary Operations John Suley and his wife and Celebrity’s wine expert Chanelle Duarte, who serves as Celebrity’s Beverage Development Consultant. Activities will focus on local ingredients, food and wine pairing and more.
• July 10 – 12-night Mediterranean cruise on Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity’s flagship vessel, sailing roundtrip from Barcelona and hosted by Corporate Executive Chef Rufino Rengifo. Activities will celebrate Mediterranean cooking.
• August 12 – 12-night Baltic cruise on Celebrity Constellation, the first of Celebrity’s Millennium Class ships to be Solsticized, sailing roundtrip from Amsterdam and hosted by Lorenzo Davidoiu, Celebrity’s Restaurant Operations Manager, who will focus on easy, modern entertaining tips.
• September 14 – 8-night wine cruise on Celebrity Millennium, which will be Solsticized in May 2012, sailing from Vancouver to San Diego and hosted by Celebrity’s Traveling Restaurant Manager and former star maitre d’ Dominique Gamba, who will focus on specialty cheeses from around the world, the art of tea service, table settings and entertaining tips.

Each cruise will feature an expert from the wine or spirits industry, in addition to Celebrity’s culinary team members. Participating beverage partners, who will offer talks on their products, include representatives from Jack Daniel’s, Jackson Family Wines, St. Francis Vineyards and Marchesi Antinori.

About the hosts

• Jacques Van Staden is a native of South Africa who began his culinary career at the age of 14. He held positions at several Washington, D.C. and Las Vegas restaurants before joining Celebrity Cruises, where he has evolved the guest experience to a series of world class restaurant, bar and lounge experiences blending global influences, classic culinary fundamentals and contemporary trends with a keen eye for detail and artistic flair.
• Top up-and-coming chef John Suley joined Celebrity in 2011 as Director of Culinary Operations. Previously, Suley worked at several highly regarded restaurants in New York, Miami and Las Vegas, alongside some of the world’s most well-known chefs. Among Suley’s accolades are being named 2010 James Beard Foundation “Rising Star Chef” nominee and 2007 “Rising Star Chef of American Cuisine.”
• Renowned mixologist Junior Merino, who encourages people to “drink with all the senses,” began his career as a busboy at age 16. The potential to combine food and drink inspired him to pursue a career in the field. He formed “The Liquid Chef Inc.” with the mission of showcasing the artistry and mixability of ingredients and liquors. His “Molecular Bar” concept on Celebrity’s Solstice Class ships is one of the most unique beverage experiences at sea.
• Rufino Rengifo received his American Culinary Federation Executive Chef Certification in 2002, and has since worked in restaurants in New York, Miami, Boca Raton, Caracas and Milan. Rengifo also represented Latin Fusion Gastronomy at The World Food Festival in Europe and opened several restaurants before becoming the Executive Chef for Celebrity Cruises.
• Steve Van der Merwe learned what his true passion would be in a small pizzeria in South Africa, which eventually led to him working in all levels of culinary positions, to where he reached Master Chef as recognized by Chaine des Rotisseurs. Steve joined Celebrity in 2008.
• W. Thomas Szymanski fell in love with the culinary arts while helping his grandparents in the butchery. Poland-born Szymanski grew up in Germany, joined Celebrity Cruises in 1997, and eventually became the chef responsible for traveling to ships around the world to train kitchen staff on the creation of Celebrity’s award-winning cuisine.
• Thierry Houlbert discovered a passion for baking on his grandmother’s farm. After a dozen years spent baking in Paris, St. Tropez and Monaco, Houlbert joined Celebrity Cruises in 1994, and today is responsible for the fleet’s pastry and bakery departments.
• Having previously worked with several luxury dining venues, certified sommelier Chanelle Duarte has successfully assisted in developing and implementing unique onboard beverage concepts, including the environmentally conscious Blu wine menu and the Michael’s Club craft beer experience that debuted on Celebrity Silhouette earlier this year.
• A native of Romania, Lorenzo Davidoiu began his career with Celebrity Cruises as an assistant waiter. Fifteen 15 years at sea led him to his current role as Manager of Restaurant Operations. He supervises the execution of Celebrity’s impeccable dining experience, including crew training efforts as well as the design and development of Celebrity’s unique restaurant concepts.
• Dominique Gamba attended culinary school in Provence, France, before working on a Seine river boat which offered gourmet dining. He took his career to land for an experience in a Michelin-star restaurant in Paris before joining Celebrity Cruises.

Some of the activities specific to Celebrity’s Excite the Senses culinary theme cruises will require a per-person fee.

For more details, visit www.celebritycruises.com/excitethesenses.

The Excite the Senses book is available for purchase at www.celebritylifestylebook.com.

Oceania Cruises strives for culinary excellence when it launches Riviera in April 2012. Purposely built for epicureans, the 1,250-guest ship offers 10 dining venues comparable to the very best shore-side restaurants.

“Our guests are in for a true epicurean odyssey with Riviera,” states Kunal S. Kamlani, the line’s president. “Riviera offers diverse dining experiences that cater to the palates of inquisitive travelers. Best of all, regardless of which gourmet restaurant they choose to enjoy, there are no additional dining charges.”

Continental Cuisine, Asian Fusion & American Favorites

Riviera offers six, open-seating gourmet restaurants, two private-dining venues and two casual eateries. The décor of each is distinctive, yet a common design thread is evident in the extensive use of rich woods, marble and granite, fine wool carpets and supple leather. Below is an outline of the ship’s dining venues:

1.    The Grand Dining Room – Tuxedo-clad wait staff serve a six-course menu in a setting reminiscent of a grand European hotel. Menus include Continental and American dishes plus spa cuisine from Canyon Ranch. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

2.    Toscana – Three illuminated etched-glass panels provide a dramatic backdrop to savory Italian specialties, many of them family recipes handed down from Oceania Cruises’ staff and crew. Open for dinner, reservations suggested.

3.    Polo Grill – Fine cuts of Prime, dry-aged beef, as well as chops and fresh seafood, are featured. The décor evokes a classic steakhouse with leather upholstery, mahogany wall panels and rich crimson, gold and green colors. Open for dinner, reservations suggested.

4.    Jacques – One of only two restaurants by the world-renowned chef Jacques Pépin, this French bistro is decorated with antiques, pickled wood furnishings and rough-hewn wood floors. Open for dinner, reservations suggested.

5.    Red Ginger – Thai, Japanese and Vietnamese flavors are showcased in a contemporary setting that features three Buddhas carved from a single piece of backlit glass as a dramatic centerpiece. Open for dinner, reservations suggested.

6.    Terrace Café – Shades of burgundy, rust, gold and yellow create a bright and pleasant indoor ambiance or guests may dine al fresco. Lunch and dinner buffets feature carved meats and regional delicacies. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

7.    Waves – This relaxed, open-air brasserie serves gourmet burgers, swordfish, chicken and other grilled items, and features a salad bar and homemade ice cream bar. Open for lunch.

8.    Baristas – This coffee bar adjoining the library is the place to enjoy Illy espresso and cappuccino, plus homemade biscotti and coffee cake. Open throughout the day.

Optional Wine Dinners & Private Dining

9.    La Reserve by Wine Spectator – This intimate venue hosts tastings and seven-course pairing dinners with premium wines selected in consultation with Wine Spectator editors. This venue is also home to wine-tastings during the day. Per guest charge for premium wines applies. Reservations required.

10. Privée – This elegant private dining room can accommodate up to 10 guests. Selections from the Polo Grill and Toscana menus are served with great flair. Room charge applies. Reservations required.

Oceania Cruises’ Riviera also features a Bon Appétit Culinary Center, which offers hands-on cooking classes with a changing curriculum. In select ports guests can accompany the chef to shore-side markets to purchase fresh, local ingredients, which they later learn how to prepare in the culinary center.

For reservations or to order a brochure, contact a travel agent, visit OceaniaCruises.com.

While celebrating the stateside debut of its stylish Celebrity Silhouette – the fourth and newest member of Celebrity Cruises’ Solstice Class fleet – Celebrity Cruises also is focused on the fifth member of the class, Celebrity Reflection, which sets sail in the Fall of 2012. And when she does, she’ll boast all the attributes that have netted Celebrity’s Solstice Class the broadest array of honors in the brand’s 20-year history – including Celebrity’s #1 ranking in the large-ship category of the prestigious annual Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards – and a host of entirely new features, including a significantly expanded array of luxury suites.

In designing Celebrity Reflection, the line focused on what could make the best even better, and already announced plans to add a new deck to allow for additional staterooms and the line’s first AquaClass Suites, inspired by guest demand. And today, the line announced plans to also introduce Celebrity’s first “Signature Suites,” and the new “Reflection Suite.”

“Everything we introduced on Celebrity Silhouette illustrated our devotion to offering new and differentiated experiences for our guests, and the feedback we’re receiving is rewarding validation that our guests love it – from The Lawn Club Grill, to The Porch, to The Alcoves, to The Hideaway, not to mention they continually tell us how much they love the first three Solstice Class ships,” said Celebrity’s President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. “On Celebrity Reflection, we’ve taken the opportunity to further elevate our onboard offerings, with entirely new ‘Signature Suites’ and our first ‘Reflection Suite,’ in addition to our first-ever AquaClass Suites, collectively creating the most vivid examples yet of the modern luxury that defines Celebrity.”

Located in a private area of the ship’s 14^th deck, Celebrity Reflection’s five Signature Suites each offer a 441-square-foot stateroom area and 118-square foot veranda, with floor-to-ceiling windows and veranda doors, all designed to maximize the stunning views of the sea. Celebrity’s Signature Suites each can accommodate up to four guests, and will offer the 24/7 butler service that is a hallmark of every suite across the Celebrity fleet.

The entire area – including the new Reflection Suite – features cardkey access exclusively for guests booked in the elite group of suites, such that a family or group of up to 26 guests traveling together can enjoy a private, six-suite modern luxury vacation experience.

Nestled in the corner location near Celebrity’s new Signature Suites, the Reflection Suite will be the brand’s first two-bedroom suite, complete with a sea-view bathroom extending out over the edge of the ship, a veranda tub with soothing rain shower, and panoramic views courtesy of the wraparound veranda. The 1,636-square-foot Reflection Suite with 194-square-foot veranda – complete with Celebrity’s 24/7 butler service – can accommodate up to six guests.

For guests booked in Celebrity’s Reflection Suite, Signature Suites and Penthouse Suite, Celebrity has partnered with Reverie®, a leading innovator in luxury bedding, to deliver the Reverie® Dream Sleep System^TM. The patented sleep system features a premium Reverie mattress that allows guests, with the assistance of their butler, to customize the softness of their bed.

Additionally, Reverie’s exclusive technology enables the iPod Touch (third and fourth generation), iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, iPad 2, iPad and Reverie Remote app to act as a remote control for the Reverie Sleep System, allowing guests to easily operate massage features and adjust the elevation of the mattress. Pressing “zero gravity” on the remote will take guests to a position in which the feet and head are raised slightly to improve circulation and relieve lower back pressure, creating the ultimate sensation of “weightlessness,” similar to the sensation felt in a zero-gravity chamber.

Reverie also has integrated remote control technology into the Sleep System so guests can turn appliances around the room that are connected to the power outlet off or on with the touch of the screen on the iPod Touch, iPhone, or iPad. Guests can enjoy this innovative technology through an iPad provided in each of the new suites.

Celebrity’s suite guests will also enjoy the custom-embroidered, 100% Egyptian cotton linens featured in Celebrity’s new “eXhale” bedding program, which was introduced on the newly-Solsticized Celebrity Infinity December 3.

Driven by high demand for Celebrity’s industry-first AquaClass category of spa-inspired accommodations, and by way of an additional deck being added to Celebrity Reflection, as previously announced, Celebrity will introduce on Celebrity Reflection the line’s first AquaClass Suites. Each will offer 300 square feet of luxurious interior space and spacious 79-square-foot verandas, paired with all the amenities associated with Celebrity’s AquaClass accommodations, including exclusive and complimentary access to the highly-rated specialty restaurant, “Blu,” noted for its inviting, modern design and flavorful, healthy cuisine. The new suites also will offer the l 24/7 butler service that is a hallmark of every suite across the Celebrity fleet.

In addition to the 34 new AquaClass Suites, Celebrity Reflection also will present an additional eight new Sky Suites, 19 additional ConciergeClass staterooms, and 11 additional inside staterooms, bringing the stateroom/suite total to 1,515.

“We gave a great deal of thought to how to ideally accommodate everything we’re adding,” said Hanrahan. “We’re widening the ship slightly, enabling us to introduce each of these exceptional new venues without compromising an inch of Celebrity’s premium space ratio and traffic flow.”

Celebrity Reflection will offer 245 more loungers on its expanded pool deck to suit the increased overall guest capacity, as well as 45 additional seats in the Celebrity Theater, 118 in Oceanview Café, 24 additional seats each in Blu and in Tuscan Grille, four more in Qsine, and 40 additional seats in the main dining room, where Celebrity offers Celebrity Select Dining^SM, the industry’s first flexible dining option allowing guests to choose when they wish to dine on a flexible, day-by-day basis.

Celebrity Reflection will enter service October 12, 2012, on a nine-night European cruise from Amsterdam to Barcelona.

Azamara Club Cruises introduces the European ‘About Rose’ collection of toiletry products on its two intimate ships, Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey. From master-perfumer Olivier Decoster, ‘About Rose’ offers guests a new range of toiletry products to enjoy during their voyage with Azamara. The signature collection, available now, blends rich product formulations and unique fragrance compositions to offer spa-quality hair, bath and body products for both men and women.

“Up-market travelers on a destination-immersive voyage with Azamara Club Cruises can now enjoy the exclusive spa-like amenities of ‘About Rose’ in their stateroom after exploring some of the world’s most exclusive destinations or exclusive events,” said Edie Bornstein, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Azamara Club Cruises.  “We are thrilled to offer this signature amenity kit designed by the renowned Master Perfumer Olivier Decoster to our guests to enjoy in the comfort of their staterooms, as well as during rejuvenating sessions in our world-class day spas onboard.”

The collection includes About Rose foaming body wash, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner plus a vanity set. The fragrance is an exotic blend of fruity, floral and spicy scents and develops further with strong fusion of wood, amber and iris essences.

Decoster, the founder and artistic director for HD Fragrances, is widely recognized across the world for having created exclusive perfumed and fragrances for some of the world’s leading hotels, fashion design and interior design brands.  Trained in Grasse, France, perfume has been Decoster’s lifelong passion and he is one of the few perfumers to also hold a medical degree.

Oceania Cruises will introduce two new beverage packages on voyages beginning in 2012. The new wine, beer and spirits beverage packages were designed to enhance the culinary experience for guests while at the same time offering additional convenience and value.

All Oceania Cruises guests will continue to enjoy unlimited complimentary soft drinks, bottled water, specialty coffees and teas on every sailing.

House Wine and Beer, priced at $29.95 per guest, per day, includes house wine by the glass and beer with lunch and dinner in any dining venue or via room service. House wine options are from a selection of red and white wines that change daily.

The second option, Open Bar, priced at $49.95 per guest, per day, includes beer and premium house wine by the glass and most beverages on the bar menu. Guests can also order spirits and beer through room service. Premium house wine options are from an exclusive selection of featured red and white wines that change daily.

“Our new beverage packages offer guests a convenient and affordable way to further enjoy the finest cuisine at sea,” said Kunal S. Kamlani, the line’s president. “By paying one set price, guests can enjoy a wide variety of wine, beer, spirits or even a nightcap at a terrific value.”

The new beverage package prices include gratuities and can be pre-booked online or through a reservations representative. They can also be purchased onboard at any time during the cruise, with prices prorated for the days remaining. Guests can upgrade packages during the sailing.

For more information, visit www.OceaniaCruises.com.

The Great American Steamboat Company announces the details of the entertainment line-up for the inaugural season of the Steamer American Queen, including the line’s inaugural season “Riverlorian”.

Each night, entertainers will perform in the American Queen’s Grand Saloon. Two decks tall, the Grand Saloon is an elegant showplace. Every evening, guests will be treated to a different celebration of American music, from Broadway hits to Dixieland Jazz, big band to bluegrass, ragtime to rock and roll. Showboat-style cabaret acts and old-fashioned radio shows add variety to the evening lineup.

“The American Queen and her fabled predecessors were consistently renowned and acclaimed for their lavish, award-winning entertainment and we could not be more pleased to offer our guests all of these legendary names aboard the most legendary riverboat in the world,” stated Christopher Kyte, president of Great American Steamboat Company.

The Return of the “Riverlorians”

As the American Queen carries forward the 100+ yearlong legacy of the Delta Queen Steamboat Company, a Delta Queen veteran will serve as the inaugural Riverlorian. Mary Charlton, who has served as Riverlorian aboard the Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen in the past is returning in her starring role.

“The American Queen is not just the only authentic steamboat on America’s waterways, she presents the only truly authentic Steamboating experience and the only true Riverlorians, which of course were a staple of the Delta Queen boats for decades,” stated Kyte.

Glenn Miller Orchestra – The big band show, with a sound of its own, will be performing original arrangements of classics tunes like In the Mood, Moonlight Serenade, Chattanooga Choo Choo and many others.

Voyage dates: July 27, August 3, December 28

Harry James Orchestra – Directed by Fred Radke, who played first trumpet for the master himself, the orchestra stirs memories of the good old days with hits including All or Nothing at All, Ain’t She Sweet, Up a Lazy River and more.

Voyage Dates: April 19, April 27

Rat Pack Show – Performers will evoke the sounds of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, backed by our onboard orchestra. The show will include Fly Me to the Moon, That’s Amore, Everybody Loves Somebody, New York, New York, When I Was Seventeen and others.

Voyage Dates: May 8, May 15, May 22, June 28, July 18, October 22, December 14

B.J. Thomas - B.J. Thomas sings his chart-topping songs, Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head, Hooked on a Feeling, I Just Can’t Help Believing, Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song and others.

Voyage Dates: July 11, July 18, July 22

The Lovin’ Spoonful – Playing the hits that put them into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the band will play their songs, including Do You Believe in Magic, Daydream, Summer in the City and Nashville Cats.

Voyage Dates: July 11, July 18, July 22

The Platters – The original doo-wop act brings back the sound of the 50s with the songs that became classics: Only You, The Great Pretender, My Prayer, Twilight Time, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes and others.

Voyage Dates: September 7

Bill Haley’s Comets – Bill Haley’s Comets will have guests moving to energetic hits like Rock Around the Clock and Shake, Rattle and Roll.

Voyage Dates: September 7

Annie Moses Band - This classically trained family will have everyone in the holiday spirit performing seasonal music. Featured are violin, viola, cello, harp, guitar, piano and vocals.

Voyage Dates: November 19, December 9, December 14

The New Orleans Jazz All-Stars -These maestros of the Big Easy’s jazz scene will take the American Queen on a journey through the history of a purely American music genre.

Voyage Dates: April 13, April 19

Juggernaut Jug Band - Rooted in the port towns of the Deep South, jug music includes styles of swing, jazz and bluegrass, performed by Juggernaut’s amazing artists.

Voyage Dates: May 4, May 29, September 28, October 12

Storefront Congregation – A blend of bluegrass, country and blues.

Voyage Dates: April 27

Additional details on these and other acts, along with additional voyage dates will be available online at www.GreatAmericanSteamboatCompany.com/entertainment

For additional information and reservations, contact the Great American Steamboat Company at 888-749-5280, or visit www.GreatAmericanSteamboatCompany.com.