New concierge desk assists guests of The Haven in reserving specialty dining, spa treatments, entertainment and arranging special requests prior to embarkation

Norwegian Cruise Line announced the launch of a shoreside concierge desk exclusively for guests with reservations in at The Haven by Norwegian.  Beginning today, the concierge desk provides pre-cruise assistance enabling guests and travel partners to pre-arrange a variety of services and amenities.

The concierge desk provides support in booking reservations for all suite accommodations; arranging dining and entertainment; booking shore excursions; making spa and salon appointments; as well as taking special requests such as pillow preference and any other arrangements.  The concierge desk will send an email confirmation to the travel partner or guest prior to their sailing reconfirming all of the requests made.

The Haven is currently featured on board Norwegian’s Jewel class ships (Norwegian Gem, Pearl, Jade, Jewel); and the line’s newest, Norwegian Epic. Norwegian’s two new ships, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, will also feature The Haven by Norwegian when they launch in April 2013 and April 2014.

Suite guests are privy to an array of complimentary amenities, including 24-hour private butler service; priority embarkation and disembarkation; distinctive platinum keycard; priority boarding of tenders to shore; in-suite espresso/cappuccino machines; gourmet treats delivered each evening; Bliss Collection by Norwegian pillow-top mattress; fine linens, feather duvet and pillow menu; along with plush bathrobes, slippers, oversized towels; and much more.

Norwegian’s Jewel class ships (Norwegian Jewel, Jade, Pearl and Gem) include up to 18 suites as part of The Haven, including the largest suites at sea – the 5,000 square foot, three-bedroom Garden Villas.  All of these suites surround The Haven Courtyard that includes a pool, sundeck, hot tub, fitness room and more.  The Haven on Norwegian Epic is the largest suite complex at sea, comprising 60 suites on two private decks at the top of the ship.  An additional 15 suites located throughout the ship also have access to The Haven which includes a private pool, two whirlpools, gym, saunas, sundeck, along with a private restaurant with indoor/outdoor dining, exclusive bar and concierge lounge.

The concierge desk is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET and can be reached by calling 855.NCL.HAVEN (625.4283). For more information on The Haven by Norwegian, contact a travel professional or visit www.thehaven.ncl.com.

About Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator in cruise travel with a 44-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 has 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 on order for delivery in spring 2013 and spring 2014.

Norwegian’s largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, debuted in June 2010.  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, Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos, Gibson Guitar, 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.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has had an excellent year in 2011, earning among other accolades, the number one spot in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards for the world’s Best River Cruise Line. This is the first time Condé Nast Traveler has had a separate river cruise category, and Uniworld is honored to be their readers’ top choice with a score of 90.3. Uniworld was also included in Condé Nast’s 2011 Gold List as one of the “World’s Top Cruise Lines.”

Earlier in the year,  seven of Uniworld’s luxury boutique river cruise ships were listed in Condé Nast Traveler ‘s Readers’ Choice Survey for Best River Cruise Ships , with River Beatrice and River Duchesslanding first and second place.  Using a scale of 100, River Beatrice scored particularly high marks in the areas of Crew/Service (96.7), Itineraries (96.7), Food and Dining (96.7), and Shore Excursions (96.7). The Uniworld ships named in the top 20 were River Beatrice (1), River Duchess (2) River Countess (5), River Queen (6), River Baroness (8), River Royale (12), and River Princess (19).

The newest jewel in Uniworld’s elite boutique fleet, the luxurious Super Ship S.S. Antoinette, is already garnering great praise by being included in a list of the Most Luxurious Cruise Cabins by Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor of Cruise Critic and contributor to Condé Nast Traveler. “Whether you’re talking about its lavish public rooms, its airy spa, its cinema, or its staterooms,” writes Brown, “S.S. Antoinette is not only the most gorgeous riverboat afloat, it’s also quite possibly the most beautiful ship anywhere.”

S.S. Antoinette was also just named the world’s “Best New River Ship” in Cruise Critic’s Fourth Annual Editor’s Picks Awards. Further, Conde Nast Traveler listed the S.S. Antoinette’s “Castles along the Rhine,” in the top eleven “Dream Itineraries for 2012,” and is the only river cruise itinerary listed in the best of the best in the cruise industry.

“We are extraordinarily proud and honored to be so highly recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler and for the S.S. Antoinette to be so well received in her inaugural year,” said Guy Young, President of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. “We constantly strive to give our guests the best possible vacation experience on all of our ships, and it is gratifying to know that our standards of excellence have been recognized by our guests and the readers of Condé Nast Traveler.”

About Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, the world’s only authentic boutique cruise line™, is recognized among the “World’s Best River Cruises” by Travel + Leisure. Uniworld was voted the“#1 River Cruise Line in the World” in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, was named to Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious Gold List, and won “Best River Ships” in their Readers’ Poll, which ranked River Beatrice and River Duchess the #1 and #2 river ships, along with five other highly ranked ships in the top 20. Uniworld’s cabins and dining are also ranked among the top three in the world by Zagat Survey®; Uniworld is the only river cruise line named in the Zagat Survey® amongst the best of the best in the cruise industry. Uniworld features luxurious boutique ships with an average capacity of 130 guests, included shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, and award-winning hospitality. Uniworld offers over 500 departures sailing on over 13 rivers in more than 20 countries throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, China, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Premium Cruise Line Earns Accolades for Top Itineraries, Best Private Island and ms Nieuw Amsterdam

Holland America Line, a leader in premium cruising, has earned top honors with nine 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards from Porthole Cruise Magazine, one of the world’s leading cruise travel publications. The awards included Best Alaska Itineraries, Best Medium-Sized Ship for ms Nieuw Amsterdam and Best Private Island for Half Moon Cay, its exclusive island in the Bahamas.

Porthole Cruise Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards are determined by thousands of the publication’s readers who vote on their favorite cruise lines in a variety of categories.

“The readers of Porthole are knowledgeable and well-traveled, having extensively experienced first-hand the voting categories,” said Bill Panoff, publisher and editor-in-chief of the magazine. “Our readers appreciate the quality cruise experience both on board and ashore that Holland America Line continues to deliver year after year.”

Holland America Line’s 2011 Readers Choice Awards include:

• Best Medium-Sized Ship for Nieuw Amsterdam
• Best Private Island for Half Moon Cay
• Best Alaska Itineraries
• Best Central America Itineraries
• Best Canada/New England Itineraries
• Best Shore Excursions
• Best Computer Facilities
• Best Medical Facilities
• Best Facilities for Physically Challenged Passengers

“Holland America Line is honored to be recognized by the discerning readers of Porthole Cruise Magazine once again,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “We continually strive to deliver the ultimate premium cruise experience and these awards validate our efforts and dedication to excellence.”

Nieuw Amsterdam Named Best Medium-Sized Ship

Holland America Line’s newest ship, Nieuw Amsterdam, received top accolades from Porthole readers as the Best Medium-Sized Ship. The 2,106-guest Nieuw Amsterdam features décor highlighting the historic glamour of New York City and multiple five-star dining venues including the award-winning Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind and Canaletto.  Extensive social and entertainment settings enhance the on-board experience with the intimate Silk Den, the Crow’s Nest lounge with sweeping ocean views, the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine, plus a variety of luxurious getaways including the private Cabana Club and the Greenhouse Spa and Salon. Each evening, award-winning performers entertain in the Showroom at Sea, a modern-day version of the classic nightclub.

Half Moon Cay Receives Best Private Island Honors

For the past 11 years, Porthole Cruise Magazine has recognized Half Moon Cay as the industry’s Best Private Island. Half Moon Cay features 15 beach-front, air-conditioned private cabanas, a natural 700-acre lagoon, a new Captain Morgan on the Rocks Island Bar and fun-filled excursions for nature lovers and adventurous travelers alike. Here guests can enjoy fascinating tours on the island including horseback riding by land and sea, snorkeling and swimming with stingrays in a secluded cove, biking tours, the AquaTrax watercraft adventure tour and parasailing.

Top Itineraries Garner Top Honors

In addition to winning the Best Shore Excursions award for its diverse and expansive selection of tours, Holland America Line maintained its leading position as the cruise line with the Best Alaskan Itineraries. In 2012, the line will sail seven ships on six unique itineraries, highlighted by scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay and Alaska’s renowned Inside Passage.

Holland America Line also received top honors from Porthole Cruise Magazine recognizing its Canada/New England voyages, which explore the historic seaports and stunning fall foliage of the region. The line’s 2012 itineraries range from seven to 15 days and will feature 27 sailings between April and October.

Rounding out the honors garnered for top itineraries are the line’s Central America voyages, a series of sailings that explore the region’s natural beauty, indigenous cultures and full transits of the Panama Canal.

Computer Facilities, State-of-the-Art Medical Facilities

Holland America Line won Best Computer Facilities for its Digital Workshop powered by Windows. The enrichment program offers complimentary sessions that are led by a Microsoft-trained “techspert” on a variety of relevant topics such as photo editing, making a slideshow, photo enhancing and sharing, and PC buying and security.

Completing the awards, Holland America Line received recognition for its accessibility and medical facilities. Holland America Line ships accommodate guests with a variety of special needs.

Before you go out and battle the crowds this Black Friday or rush to get an online deal on something you regret later on Cyber Monday… relax and enjoy your holiday lounging the couch, watching football, eating a leftover turkey sandwich as you let the tryptophan kick in.

Festiva Sailing Vacations has just launched its HOLIDAY SAILING SALE where you can save 30 percent on 2012 sailing dates when you call to book between now and 5pm on Friday December 2. 2011. So no need to set the alarm clock for 2am… give them a call and sleep in!

Plus, you’ll save on the best gift idea your friends and family could ever hope for… a week relaxing in the Caribbean on one of their beautiful catamarans.

They have opened up a limited number of staterooms in each of our Caribbean destinations throughout 2012 as part of this sale.

Stateroom Packages Include:

7 nights on a Lagoon 440
Air-Conditioned stateroom for two with a private bathroom
Experienced Captain and Chef
All onboard meals including an open bar
Watertoys
Water and Fuel
Choose to sail one of these beautiful Caribbean destinations:
The British Virgin Islands
St. Maarten
The Abacos of the Bahamas
The Western Caribbean
St. John

Start your planning now by visiting www.FestivaSailingVacations.com or
Click Here and use Promo Code: DOORBUSTER

Reservations: 866-575-3951
Monday – Friday: 9am – 9pm

*HOLIDAY SAILING SALE discounts are based off the published retail rate and not valid with other discounts, promotions, member bookings, referral bookings or group discounts. Offer expires Friday December 2, 2011 at 5pm.

Combine glacier cruising with inland wildlife viewing, natural wonders and gold rush history on 17 CruiseTours

From the breathtaking views of Glacier National Park to the wilderness of Denali National Park and the Yukon’s Klondike Gold Rush territory, Holland America Line’s 2012 Alaska CruiseTours feature 17 different itineraries that immerse guests in a rich Alaska nature and frontier experience.  Departures provide “cruise first” or “tour first” selections to stunning landscapes and less-visited landmarks throughout The Last Frontier.  

Ranging in total length from 10 to 20 days, all CruiseTours combine a three-, four- or seven-day Inside Passage cruise with in-depth overland tours.  Offering two days at Denali National Park for wildlife viewing and spectacular scenery, CruiseTours are designed to highlight the best of Alaska’s wilderness, wildlife, native culture and history.  Six tours also feature Canada’s Yukon Territory with its Klondike Gold Rush heritage and pristine national parks such as Kluane National Park and Tombstone Park.  Departures range from May through September.

“Next year marks Holland America Line’s 65th anniversary of providing guests with exclusive opportunities that showcase Alaska and its natural beauty,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Our CruiseTours are designed to combine the best of both worlds — one of our incredible cruises with an overland exploration — and traveling to Alaska with us has never been more exciting or accessible.”

Guests who opt for tour-first itineraries typically prefer to relax on a cruise after their land tour, while cruise-first travelers seek to settle into a vacation mindset and enjoy the many amenities of Holland America Line’s elegant premium ships as they sail into the wilderness.

In addition to major attractions such as Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage, Holland America Line’s Alaska CruiseTours visit exclusive destinations not accessible via cruise ship including Wonder Lake, the Dalton Highway, Denali National Park and gold-rush town Dawson City, Yukon.

Unique to the Holland America Line cruise experience, highly trained and knowledgeable interpreters, tour concierges and Alaska travel guides are present on most CruiseTours and sailings, and National Park Rangers provide extensive commentary and guided programs at Glacier Bay National Park.  Tour concierges travel throughout the land portion on all Alaska/Yukon CruiseTour itineraries.

While on a CruiseTour, guests can choose from several adventurous shore and land excursions to further customize their CruiseTours, ranging from hiking, dog sledding, fly fishing, river rafting and glacier landing by helicopter to informative historical and cultural tours.

In 2012 Holland America Line features six Yukon and Denali CruiseTours (Y1-Y6). These 10- to 20-day itineraries include adventures to destinations such as Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Dawson City, and Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory. Some CruiseTours also include Kluane National Park and the White Pass and Yukon Railroad.

The eight Denali CruiseTours (D1-D7) range from 11 to 14 days and feature a seven-day Inside Passage cruise that includes Glacier Bay National Park. Most itineraries offer two-night Denali stays with the Denali Tundra Wilderness experience, a day-tour into the protected wilderness where grizzly bears, moose, caribou and wolves are often sighted in the wild.

Expedition CruiseTours E1-E3 range from 12 to 14 days, provide authentic wilderness experiences and include the Bears and Wilderness CruiseTour for intimate opportunities for viewing wildlife. They feature a seven-day Glacier Discovery cruise, acclaimed Redoubt Bay Lodge near Lake Clark National Park and Winterlake Lodge along Alaska’s historic Iditarod Trail. Additional Expedition CruiseTours highlight the best of the Kenai Peninsula and Denali backcountry.

CruiseTours feature luxurious glass-domed McKinley Explorer railcars with comfortable, forward-facing seats and expert commentary by guides. In addition, Holland America Line’s exclusive Explorer Coaches create a superb environment for traveling the highway on Denali and Yukon tours with roomy leather seats, first-class legroom and no more than 44 travelers.

Holland America Line’s Alaska CruiseTours start at $999 per person, double occupancy.

Receive up to $250 to spend on board and reduced deposits fleet-wide 

Norwegian Cruise Line launches its Black Friday/Cyber Monday limited time offer to celebrate the biggest shopping days of the year with special savings on Freestyle Cruises to exciting destinations. Beginning on Wednesday, November 23, 2011, guests can take advantage of exclusive savings on Norwegian’s sailings of three days or longer to Alaska; Bahamas & Florida; Bermuda; the Caribbean; Europe; and Hawai’i. Vacationers who book their cruise by November 29, 2011 will receive up to $250 per stateroom (based on cruise length and stateroom category) to spend on board for a refreshing drink in the sun; trying their luck in the casino; or a treating a loved one to a souvenir from one of the many retail outlets.

Super shoppers can book incredible cruise vacations such as Norwegian’s largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, which has been recognized by USA Today as “Best Cruise Ship Entertainment.” Departing from Miami weekly through April 7, 2012, Norwegian Epic sails to the Eastern Caribbean visiting St. Thomas and St. Maarten, Virgin Islands and Nassau Bahamas, as well as three relaxing days at sea.

The limited time offer also provides reduced deposits fleet-wide giving guests the opportunity to experience Norwegian’s growing fleet of Freestyle Cruising ships and its award-winning entertainment, accommodations to suit an array of needs from solo travelers to families; and dinner around the world with options ranging from Italian, French, Asian and classic American to sushi, Teppanyaki and Brazilian churrasco.

Travel partners can visit Norwegian’s dedicated Marketing Headquarters to utilize a number of customizable resources, downloadable marketing tools, and social media messaging for the Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale at www.partners.ncl.com.

To book a cruise with Norwegian during the biggest shopping event of the year, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), or visit www.ncl.com.

Norwegian Epic Hotel Director Denis Prguda presents a cake to the Blue Man Group. 

Norwegian Epic had reason to celebrate on Friday, November 11 when Blue Man Group performed their 500th show on board.  The occasion was marked by a special cake made by the ship’s Executive Chef Peter Haselsberger which was presented to the cast after their performance. The 35 members of the cast and crew also enjoyed an epic celebration that included a private after-party that was anything but blue.

Blue Man Group debuted for the first time at sea performing in the 685-seat Epic Theater in June 2010. The show continues to be a popular onboard favorite, playing eight performances, four nights a week. Blue Man Group is best known for its widely popular theatrical shows and concerts that combine music, comedy and multimedia theatrics to produce a totally unique form of entertainment.

Norwegian’s largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic has been recognized by USA Today as “Best Cruise Ship Entertainment.” The ship is currently sailing seven day cruises from Miami, Florida visiting St. Thomas and St. Maarten, Virgin Islands and Nassau Bahamas, as well as three relaxing days at sea

Royal Caribbean International continues to deliver the Royal Advantage with the transformation of the elegant and popular Centrum found aboard its Vision-Class ships.

Beginning with Splendour of the Seas, the Centrum with its sweeping views and central location on the ship will reemerge from an extensive revitalization as a new chic and sophisticated venue featuring enriching daytime activities, dazzling nightly entertainment and jaw-dropping aerial spectacles. The Centrum’s Champagne Bar also will be reinvented, unveiled as a new venue – the R Bar – featuring a sophisticated 1960s vibe, complete with iconic furnishing and signature cocktails mixed by a savvy and personable mixologist.

“The rebirth of the spectacular 60-foot high Centrum found aboard the Vision-class ships brings new life to a popular gathering space by incorporating innovative technology and vertical entertainment elements to what was already the place to be and be seen,” said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president, Hotel Operations, Royal Caribbean International. “When we complete our extensive revitalization program, guests sailing aboard Splendour of the Seas will be in for a multi-sensory experience that puts them at close proximity to amazing aerial performers from multiple viewpoints in a sophisticated and glamorous atmosphere.”

Bringing the Centrum’s new entertainment offerings to life is the latest in sound and light technology. The glass elevators facing into the Centrum will feature large LED panels across their entire length providing a spectacular backdrop of moving visuals 5 decks high. During the entertainment expereinces, which takes place throughout the cruise, the soaring space comes alive with a series of aerial acrobatic vignettes blurring the lines between artful choreography and state-of-the-art technology.

The R Bar offerings will feature a return to the classics – gimlet, martini, brown liquors, gin and whiskeys – all served in unique glassware with surprising garnishes. The venue’s resident mixologist, selected from the cruise line’s fleet to be the face and personality behind the bar, will create drink specials that will complement each evening’s theme and aerial spectacular.

Throughout each sailing, guests can gather in the Centrum for a variety of interactive daytime activities including chef demonstrations, towel folding demonstrations, dance classes, game shows, Nintendo Wii competitions and the popular Captain’s Corner where guests can spend time with the Captain. Additionally, guests may sit back, relax and enjoy performances from musicians and singers or take a spin on the dance floor at themed parties such as the popular Disco Inferno dance party.

– From Cruise Industry News

Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most treasured destinations, is at the top of Islands magazine list of “All-Time Best Cruises” for its Mediterranean voyages.

Islands Magazine editors ranked the best cruises based on unique island itineraries. The full list of cruises is featured in the December 2011 issue of Islands magazine and on the magazine’s website at www.islands.com.

For 2012, Windstar has expanded its Mediterranean offerings to include three new itineraries which sail to some of the world’s greatest islands and enchanting destinations. Windstar’s three new Mediterranean itineraries are:

• Classic Mediterranean: Discover ancient wonders and modern lifestyles of classic Greek and Italian cities. Seven- and eight-day sailings on Wind Spirit and Wind Star between Rome and Athens visit Ischia, Italy; Sorrento, Italy; Lipari, Italy; Giardini Naxos, Italy; Gythion, Greece; and Monemvasia, Greece. Departures: April 28; July 7; August 11; October 13; and November 3, 2012. Cruise fares starting from $1,999 per person, double occupancy.

• Islands of Italy: Experience classic Rome and the unspoiled, intimate islands popular with Italian locals. Seven-day sailings on Wind Spirit, Wind Star and Wind Surf from Rome to Rome visit Ischia, Italy; Sorrento, Italy; Lipari, Italy; scenic cruising by Stromboli, Italy; Porto Cervo, Italy; and Porto Vecchio, France.  Departures: April 21, 28; August 4; and October 6, 2012.  Cruise fares starting from $2,199 per person, double occupancy.

• Glitter and Glam of the Rivieras: Sail to chic ports in the south of France and the stylish Italian Riviera. Six-day sailings on Wind Surf  between Rome and Barcelona visit Portoferraio, Italy; Portovenere, Italy; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Cannes, France; and St. Tropez, France. Departures: April 22; July 2; September 14; and October 29, 2012. Cruise fares starting from $1,799 per person, double occupancy.

Besides new voyages in 2012, Windstar recently announced an $18 million fleet refurbishment plan. Each yacht will receive stylish, new furniture, upholstery, art, lighting, wall coverings, carpeting, ceiling finishes, window treatments, and floor coverings, elevating the look and feel to ultimate luxury at sea, providing an unparalleled guest experience.

In addition to its Islands magazine honors, Windstar Cruises has been recognized in 2011 by some of the most notable names in the travel and lifestyle world. Celebrated Living, American Airlines’ prestigious publication for first class passengers, named Windstar Cruises “Best Small-Ship/Mid-Ship Cruise Line” on their Platinum List for the fifth time in a row. Condé Nast Traveler listed Windstar on its Annual Gold List of “Best Cruise Lines,” named Windstar a “Top Small-Ship Cruise Line,” and all three of Windstar’s yachts were recognized in the magazine’s “Best Small Ships” Readers’ Poll. Earlier this year, Windstar was selected by Travel + Leisure as one of the top five “World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Lines.” Windstar was also named “Most Romantic Cruise Line” and Wind Surf “Best Tall Ship” in Porthole Cruise Magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

About Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense and the ability to visit hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most treasured destinations.  Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the luxurious yachts of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas.

SeaDream II Follows the Path of Paul the Apostle

SeaDream Yacht Club, operating the top ‘Boutique Ships’ in the world as rated by the 2012 Berlitz Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships, reveals details of a newly created 2012 itinerary featuring unique Turkish and Greek ports. The voyage was specially designed to follow in the footsteps of Paul the Apostle, said to be one of the most famous citizens of the Roman Empire.

“We’re excited to introduce this voyage. Guests will enjoy the award-winning service and cuisine SeaDream is well known for, while partaking in an authentic travel experience. SeaDream continues to create a variety of new itineraries, many of which feature unique experiences that cannot be matched on the larger ships” said SeaDream’s President, Bob Lepisto.

Voyage # 21220b sails June 30 – July 8, 2012 from Istanbul, Turkey to Pireaus (Athens), Greece. The intermediary ports include Dikili, Turkey; Izmir, Turkey; Kusadasi, Turkey; Demre (Myra), Turkey; Rhodes, Greece and Hydra, Greece and highlights include:

• Dikili, Turkey: A short, scenic drive from the port is one of the Seven Churches of Asia referred to by St. John in the Book of Revelation; the city of Pergamum. Pergamum was first settled in the 8th century BC and because of its great library, housing some 20,000 volumes, many scholars and teachers lived in this city of culture. Guests will tour the Temple of Trajan, built by Hadrian; both of these Roman emperors worshiped there. Guests will also visit the best-known attraction in the town; the Kizil Avlu (Red Basilica), a temple made of red brick dedicated to the gods of Egypt. The temple lies in what is now the modern day town of Bergama. SeaDream’s excursion will conclude with a visit to the ancient healing center of Asclepion, a complex built to honor the God of Medicine, Asclepio.

• Izmir, Turkey: Visit the ancient city of Sardis which was one of the important cities of the Persian Empire. Sardis is named as one of the Seven Churches of Asia in the Book of Revelation. The first large archaeological expedition in Sardis (1910 – 1914) unearthed the Temple of Artemis and more than a thousand Lydian tombs. They have since unearthed perhaps the most impressive synagogue in the western diaspora yet discovered from antiquity. From Sardis, SeaDream guests will travel to Thyatira, famous for its dyeing and was a center of the indigo trade. In early Christian times Thyatira was home to a significant Christian Church, mentioned as one of the Seven Churches in the Book of Revelation 2:18-29. The apostle Paul visited the city on a number of occasions during his missionary travels. Guests will also view the Saint Polycarp Church, the oldest church in Izmir and represents ancient Smyrna’s role as one of the Seven Churches of Revelation 2:8-11.

• Kusadasi, Turkey: Tour the magnificent archaeological site of Ephesus including the recently excavated Terrace Houses and the House of the Virgin Mary on Mt. Pagus. Walk through one of the most imposing sites at Ephesus, the Library of Celsus. Finely decorated with columns and sculptures, the library was erected in 135 BC by a son in homage to his father. A short walk away is another significant structure, the amphitheater. Known for its excellent acoustics, here is where St. Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to give up their worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith. The guided SeaDream tour takes guests to the newly opened and recently excavated portion of the historic site, the so-called Terrace Houses. These houses were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians and are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes. According to the evidence of the excavations, they were built in the period of Augustus and continued to be inhabited until the 7th century AD.

• Demre (Myra), Turkey: Visit the ancient city of Myra, home to the earliest church of St. Nicholas (the original Santa Claus), built in the 6th century. St. Nicholas became bishop of Myrain the 4th century. Legend has it that he would drop small bags of gold coins down the chimneys of houses with poor girls who were old enough to marry, but had no dowry. Sanctified for his good works, he became the patron saint of virgins, sailors, children, pawnbrokers and Holy Russia; known as Santa Claus. A short drive inland are the ruins of Roman Myra, with some of the most impressive and well preserved ruins in all of Turkey. Paul the Apostle preached here.

• Rhodes, Greece: Take part in a guided walking tour of this medieval city where St Paul lived. Pass through narrow, cobblestone streets to reach the most imposing building of medieval Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Masters, built in the 14th century. Walking down the Street of the Knights and passing by numerous colorful shops, one may admire the 15th-century Hospital of the Knights, which now houses the Archaeological Museum.

About SeaDream:

Chic and stylish, SeaDream’s 56-stateroom twin yachts are favored for their elegant informality, state-of-the-art facilities, personal service provided by a crew of 95, inclusive open bar and gratuities, ocean-view accommodations, luxury spa and world class cuisine. Itineraries include the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the Amazon. “It’s yachting, not cruising” Enjoy the difference.