Silversea Expands Wi-Fi Coverage Fleetwide

Silversea Cruises has expanded wireless Internet access to 100 percent coverage throughout its four ships, enabling guests with Wi-Fi enabled laptops and PDAs to surf the Internet and check email from their suites, as well as from public areas. Through Silversea's global satellite system, guests have access to more than 270 daily newspapers for a nominal fee. Expanded wireless Internet access is the latest in a number of enhancements the line has introduced. In January, the Silver Shadow was outfitted with Sealy Posturepedic Plush EuroTop mattresses in all standard suites, and the Owner's, Grand, Royal and Rossellini Suites now feature Stearns & Foster Plush ultra-luxury beds, which provide 10 percent more sleep surface than conventional mattresses. The new bedding is being installed aboard Silver Whisper this month and will debut aboard Silver Cloud and Silver Wind later this year. New flat screen TVs are also planned for all suites and will be installed aboard the Silver Whisper in November, the Silver Shadow in January 2008 and the rest of the fleet in subsequent months. For more information, visit www.silversea.com.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Carnival Splendor Opens Reservations Open for 2008

Carnival Cruise Lines has begun accepting reservations for its new, 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor, whose inaugural 2008 season will include the line's first 12-day Northern Europe program, as well as a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing and week-long eastern Caribbean voyages. Representing a new class of vessel for the line, the 3,006-passenger SuperLiner will offer facilities such as a 21,000-square-foot health and fitness center that will feature Carnival's first thalassotherapy pool and elaborate thermal suite. Surrounding the facility will be 68 spa staterooms and suites -- another first for the line. Other highlights include a 5,500-square-foot children's play area -- the largest in the Carnival fleet - along with expanded sports and recreation facilities, including a mid-ship pool covered by a retractable dome.

The Carnival Splendor's inaugural season will kick off with a series of 12-day Northern Europe cruises operating roundtrip from London (Dover) July 13 through Aug. 30, 2008. Ports of call include Copenhagen, Denmark; Warnemunde, Germany; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia; Tallin, Estonia; and Amsterdam, Netherlands. The ship will also operate on a special, one-time, 12-day western Mediterranean cruise departing London (Dover) Sept. 11, 2008, and calling at Le Havre (Paris); Vigo, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; Malaga and Barcelona, Spain; Cannes, France; and Livorno, Italy. Following these voyages, the ship will operate a "Grand Mediterranean" cruise departing Sept. 23, 2008, and two "Mediterranean & Greek Isles" voyages roundtrip from Rome (Civitavecchia), departing Oct. 5 and 17, 2008. It will then sail on a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing from Rome (Civitavecchia) to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Oct. 29 through Nov. 14, 2008, which will position the vessel for a series of 10 seven-day, four-port "exotic" eastern Caribbean voyages beginning Nov. 22, 2008. Featured ports include Casa de Campo/La Romana, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas/St. John, U.S.V.I.; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Nassau, Bahamas. Call 800-327-9501 (individuals) or 800-327-5782 (groups) or visit www.bookccl.com.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Carnival to Rebrand Eight Fantasy-Class Ships

Carnival Cruise Lines will rebrand its eight Fantasy-class ships by introducing an updated version of each ship's name on the vessel's hull, as well as in various marketing and collateral materials. The rebranding is in conjunction with the recently announced $250 million "Evolutions of Fun" ship refurbishment program. As each ship goes into drydock for refurbishment, the name "Carnival" and the company's logo will be combined with the vessel's name. "The names of the majority of Carnival's ships that entered service starting in the latter 1990s begin with ‘Carnival,' and those ships have become synonymous with expansive, high-quality amenities and features," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. "As each of our Fantasy-class ships undergoes transformation to incorporate the wide-ranging enhancements under the Evolutions of Fun initiative, it is only fitting that those vessels be rebranded to better align them with our other ships."

All marketing materials going forward will feature the new ship names Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Paradise and Carnival Elation. As each ship goes into drydock to receive the Evolutions of Fun upgrades, signage on the ships' bow, stern and upper deck areas will be modified. Among the planned Evolutions of Fun enhancements are expansive children's water parks, a new design style and features for the pool areas, and the creation of the Serenity adults-only deck area. Also being phased in and already in place on some ships are remodeled staterooms and suites, including new bathrooms, flat-screen televisions in staterooms and some public areas, atrium lobby bars, updated sound and lighting systems in various lounges and clubs, coffee bars, nine-hole miniature golf courses, new art and photo galleries, New York-style delis in the Lido restaurants, and purpose-built conference facilities. By 2009, upgrades to the entire Fantasy class will be completed. For additional information on the Evolutions of Fun initiative, visit www.carnival.com/evolutions. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or www.bookccl.com.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

NCL America Debuts New Luau on Kauai

NCL America, in partnership with Kilohana Plantation and NH Productions, last month opened its new luau and dinner show. Luau Kalamaku offers traditional Hawaiian games, arts and craft lessons, a hula show and a theatrical production. NCL passengers will have the opportunity to sample lomi lomi salmon, poi, taro bread and kalua pig catered by Gaylord's Restaurant. A ride on Kauai Plantation Railway or a vintage Clydesdale carriage is available as additional featured activities. NCL America renovated and upgraded the existing carriage house at Kilohana Plantation so it now includes a new pavilion structure and can accommodate 1,000 guests. The structure ensures the show will go on even during inclement weather. The shows for passengers will run Monday, Thursday and Saturday evenings when NCL America ships overnight in Kauai. said "Luau Kalamaku tells a tale about Hawaiian culture and values through a one-of-a-kind theatrical performance which weaves in ancient and modern dances from the Tahitian, Hawaiian and American traditions," said Robert Kritzman NCL America executive vice president and managing director of Hawaii operations. For more information, call 800-327-7030 or visit http://www.ncl.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Vancouver Port Expects Busy Taxi Days May 4 & 11

The Port of Vancouver is advising locals and cruise passengers to have contingency transport plans on the mornings of May 4 and May 11 due to what is projected to be unusually high demand for taxis by cruise ship passengers. Port, cruise terminal and Tourism Vancouver officials have met with local taxi companies and other service providers to plan for the increased volumes on these two days. "While this is terrific news for the local economy, we want to do everything possible to minimize the disruption to the general public and cruise passengers," said Chris Badger, vice president-customer development and operations at the Vancouver Port Authority.The increased demand is expected due to the large number of independent travelers aboard cruise ships scheduled to arrive in Vancouver at the conclusion of repositioning cruises. Repositioning cruises occur primarily at the beginning and end of the Alaska cruise season, when cruise lines relocate ships to Vancouver from their southern winter itineraries. "The Port of Vancouver remains an active proponent of an increase in the number of taxi licenses and improved regional coordination of taxi services," Badger said. "While there are positive steps being taken toward those goals, these particularly busy days highlight the need for action." As repositioning cruises tend to attract a larger number of independent travelers, who do not have pre-arranged transfers to and from the port, there is a corresponding increase in demand for taxi service. On May 4, the port projects that approximately 6,900 of the 8,800 travelers arriving at Canada Place and Ballantyne Pier will be independent. Passengers should make advance transportation arrangements or be prepared for potentially lengthy wait times. For more information, call 888-PORTVAN or visit http://www.portvancouver.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas Arrives in U.S.

Royal Caribbean International welcomed its 21st ship, the 160,000-ton Liberty of the Seas, to the U.S. on Thursday. Sharing the title of world's largest cruise ship with the Freedom of the Seas, Liberty will be the first Royal Caribbean ship to roll out enhanced onboard programming in wellness, weddings, and family and teen activities. The new programming includes the Vitality wellness program; Explorer Weddings, for couples looking to tie the knot in extreme style; and new family programming introducing Adventure Theater, DJ classes, Chefs on Deck, and the Crown & Anchor Society Youth Program.

With a capacity of 3,634 guests double occupancy, Liberty features the FlowRider surf simulator, cantilevered whirlpools suspended 112 feet above the ocean, the H2O Zone water park and the Royal Promenade entertainment boulevard. The Presidential Family Suite sleeps up to 14 people. The ship has more than 20 restaurants and lounges aboard Liberty. Godmother Donnalea Madeley, a travel agent, will officially name the ship on May 18, and Liberty will sail its maiden voyage May 19 from its homeport of Miami. Liberty will depart on Saturdays and alternate between seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. The Western Caribbean itinerary will call at Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Montego Bay and Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private destination in Haiti. The Eastern Caribbean itinerary includes calls at San Juan, St. Maarten and Labadee. A third Freedom-class ship, the Independence of the Seas, is scheduled to debut in Europe in May 2008. Sailing from the U.K., it will be the largest ship to be homeported in Europe. For more information, call 800-327-2056 or visit http://www.cruisingpower.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Discovery Offers Free Attraction Passes to Kids

Discovery Cruise Line is offering free attraction passes to attractions in the Bahamas and South Florida. To be eligible for the promotion, each child under 6 must be accompanied onboard Discovery and to the attraction by a full-fare paying adult. There will be a pass for one child per adult. The attractions participating in the promotion in Grand Bahama are Bahamian Getaway Island Tour, Glass Bottom Boat, Fantasia Snorkel Tour, and UNEXCO'S Dolphin Close Encounter. In South Florida, the attractions participating are Butterfly World, Lion Country Safari, Mai-Kai Restaurant, Miami Seaquarium, and Jungle Island. Tickets to the Grand Bahama attractions must be purchased onboard during the cruise. Tickets to the South Florida attractions will be provided to passengers during the cruise. Discovery sails daily from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama Island, departing at 7:45 a.m. and returning at 10 p.m. Discovery offers same-day roundtrips as well as cruise and stay vacation packages. For more information, call 888-213-8251 or visit http://www.discoverycruiseline.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

NCL's Norwegian Sun Receives Environment Award

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced that the Norwegian Sun received the Port of San Francisco's Cruise Ship Environmental Award. The port's program annually recognizes cruise ships whose onboard environmental systems help decrease air and water pollution. The three categories evaluated are air emission reduction, wastewater treatment and recycling and disposal programs for solid waste. "With our clean fuel strategy using low-sulfur fuels while in port, along with reducing air emissions, advanced wastewater treatment and recycling and disposal of solid waste, we have demonstrated our commitment to maintaining the highest level of environmental protection standards," said Bill Hamlin, NCL's executive vice president of fleet operations. "The Port of San Francisco commends NCL for its dedication to sustaining a clean environment," said Peter Dailey, maritime director for the Port of San Francisco. For more information, call 800) 327-7030 or visit http://www.ncl.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Carnival Extends Discounts to Military Personnel

Carnival Cruise Lines, in honor of Memorial Day, is launching a promotion throughout May that allows active and retired military personnel to book up to three staterooms for themselves and their friends and family members at special discounted rates. Reservations must be made between May 1 and May 31, 2007, to qualify for this promotion, which is available in conjunction with a variety of three- to eight-day cruises departing May 1 through March 31, 2008, from six North American homeports. Rates start at $199 per person for three-day cruises from Miami and Port Canaveral, and four-day cruises from Long Beach, Calif.; $249 for five-day cruises from Mobile, Ala., and Jacksonville, Fla.; $379 for six-day voyages from Fort Lauderdale; $399 for seven-day cruises from Miami; and $499 for eight-day cruises from Fort Lauderdale. The promotion is valid for individual bookings only, is capacity controlled and not applicable with any other discount offer. Fare code CPM1 must be requested during the reservations process. Military personnel must provide proof of service. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit http://www.bookccl.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Regent's Gauguin Celebrates 10 Years in Tahiti

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 330-guest Paul Gauguin is celebrating 10 years of operating year-round in Tahiti and French Polynesia. The ship has carried more than 100,000 passengers to these islands. A selection of 43 voyages in 2008 includes itineraries from seven to 11 nights calling on the Society and Tuamotu Islands, as well as longer voyages to the Marquesas, Cook and Austral islands. In response to increased demand from guests, Regent Seven Seas' 2008 program features a greater number of shorter, seven-night cruises than in recent years. Guests aboard the Paul Gauguin can extend their vacation with seven pre- and post-cruise land programs in Tahiti in 2008.

In addition to the established programs offered on Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea, two new properties are offered: Le Taha'a Private Island and Spa; and the Moorea Pearl Resort and Spa. Special extensions are also offered to Australia and New Zealand in conjunction with select departures. Through an exclusive partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau and his conservation organization, Ocean Futures Society, young guests and their parents may participate in "Ambassadors of the Environment" Circles of Interest aboard 12 sailings in 2008.

Jean-Michel Cousteau will sail aboard the 14-night Cook, Austral, Tuamotu and Society islands voyage departing Sept. 27, 2008. Regent President Mark Conroy will sail on a 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotu and Society Islands cruise departing from Papeete on Jan. 5, 2008. Paul Gauguin's 2008 voyages start at $2,195 for seven-night roundtrips from Papeete, Tahiti. Cruise fares include all shipboard gratuities; complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits served throughout the ship; complimentary 24-hour room service; refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, beer and bottled water replenished daily; and an in-suite bar setup in butler suites. Many sailings also offer a "third guest sails free" option, available in select staterooms. For more information, call 800-285-1835 or visit http://www.theregentexperience.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Royal Princess Naming Set for June 14 in Portofino

Princess Cruises has rescheduled the christening of the Royal Princess for June 14 in Portofino, Italy. Originally scheduled for Santorini in a double naming ceremony with Emerald Princess on May 12, the event was changed out of respect for the sinking of a Greek cruise ship in that location. Royal Princess' relocated christening will take place during the ship's first port of call on a voyage that begins in Rome the previous day. Further details, including the announcement of the godmother, will be released shortly.

"Although we're saddened by the tragedy that prompted this change, we are pleased to name Royal Princess in a beautiful Mediterranean port that signifies the ship's visits to some of the most scenic ports in Europe," said Alan Buckelew, president of Princess Cruises. "Portofino is a charming example of the type of the ‘explorer' destinations we're able to highlight with this smaller vessel, and we're delighted to be able to christen our new ship in such a beautiful location."

A sister ship to the line's Tahitian Princess and Pacific Princess, the 30,200-ton, 710-passenger Royal Princess offers passengers a boutique version of Princess' onboard options, including a variety of dining and entertainment choices and a large number of cabins with private balconies. The christening voyage -- a new "Mediterranean Collection" itinerary -- features three of the four new ports debuting for Princess this season: Ravenna, Italy; Split Croatia; and Kotor, Montenegro. Royal Princess also offers sailings that visit the ruins of Troy with a call at the new port of Canakkale, Turkey, as well destinations such as the Crimean coast, Egypt and the Holy Land. For more information, call 800-PRINCESS or visit http://www.princess.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Royal Caribbean Creates Teen Advisory Board

Royal Caribbean International is creating the cruise industry's first Teen Advisory Board. By involving teens in the programming development process, the cruise line wants to provide a more enjoyable vacation experience for teens. The Teen Advisory Board will be on hand to introduce recommendations already implemented aboard the line's new Liberty of the Seas when it debuts in New York on May 4. The enhancements will subsequently be rolled out fleetwide. New teen ice-breakers will include musical instruments onboard for jam sessions and two themed entertainment experiences. Dance Dance Revolution and competitive Nintendo Wii video gaming will be incorporated into the teen program. Teen-only dining will be available in the Windjammer Café. Also, a new 4,000-foot-long zipline will be added on Labadee, Haiti, where teens can soar 200 feet above the tropical landscape.

"Teens are more travel-savvy than their parents were at their age and they actively participate in the planning of the family vacation," said Alice Norsworthy, senior vice president-marketing for Royal Caribbean. The Teen Advisory Board grew out of a study commissioned by the line to analyze teens' vacation travel practices and preferences. Conducted in conjunction with Stone Mantel, a consultancy firm, the study revealed teens want to explore the world, experience cultures and try new activities. Based on the research and recommendations from the Teen Advisory Board, Royal Caribbean will continue to evolve the teen cruise experience and plans to unveil major enhancements in the following months. The research study began in September 2006 and involved observational studies and field surveys throughout major U.S. cities. This was followed by the formation of a series of targeted "friendship groups" comprised of 36 teens age 15 to 17. Finally, 10 teens -- determined to be "influencers" among their peers, including a practicing journalist and two whose parents are travel agents -- were selected to join the Royal Caribbean Teen Advisory Board. The board convened regularly onboard or through virtual meetings on online bulletin boards. For more information, call 800-327-2056 or visit to http://www.cruisingpower.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Royal Caribbean Profits Fall in First Quarter

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCCL) announced net income for the first quarter 2007 of $8.8 million, or 4 cents per share, compared to net income of $119.5 million, or 55 per share in the same period last year. The company blamed the fall in profits on its acquisition of Spanish company Pullmantour. It also said the first quarter 2006 results included a one-time net gain of $36 million from the partial settlement of a lawsuit. The company also reaffirmed its full year 2007 earnings per share guidance of $3.05 to $3.20. Revenues for the first quarter 2007 increased to $1.2 billion from revenues of $1.1 billion in the first quarter 2006.

RCCL said Pullmantur's business is highly seasonal, with strong summer months but weak winter months. In addition, the company is including Pullmantur results on a two-month lag. RCCL said these changes significantly diminished the company's reported earnings in the first quarter and are expected to do so in the second quarter. The company said it expects greater improvement in the third and fourth quarters. RCCL also said demand has been weaker than expected, especially in the Caribbean, but that cost controls have helped offset the revenue decline.

"After a strong fall performance, close-in bookings in the first quarter required more aggressive price promotions than we experienced throughout the last year," said Richard Fain, RCCL chairman and CEO. "On the other hand, cost performance was better than our prior guidance due to cost control initiatives."

The softer Caribbean pricing is expected to continue through the spring and is of a somewhat greater magnitude than forecasted back in February, the company reported. "However, the revenue picture for the balance of the year appears more encouraging. Although it is too early to provide specific predictions for the upcoming fall/winter season, load factors and pricing are both ahead of same time last year for the fourth quarter and into the first quarter of 2008," Fain said. "While we are disappointed that the revenue environment is more challenging than anticipated, I am very proud of the way our management team is mitigating the effect through improvements in efficiency."

Collectively, the company will have a 12.2 percent increase in capacity in 2007, driven by Pullmantur, the April delivery of Liberty of the Seas, and a full year of Freedom of the Seas. For the full year 2007, the company now forecasts that net yields will increase in the range around 2 percent compared to 2006. For the second quarter 2007, the company currently forecasts net yields to be flat, and on a comparable basis to decrease in a range around 1 percent. For more information, visit http://www.rclinvestor.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Cunard's QM2 Hosts Hollywood Art Collection

Cunard's flagship Queen Mary 2 on Monday in Brooklyn boarded a collection of portraits of Hollywood stars painted for the charity fundraiser "Stars for a Cause." The art and its creator, pop-artist Nicolosi, will begin a European tour with exhibits planned at the 60th Cannes Film Festival and then to London where they will be sold during a worldwide live and online auction in early June. Auction proceeds to benefit amFAR, Prince's Trust (U.K.) and The Hollywood Museum. Nicolosi created the portraits of celebrity award nominees and recipients who then began autographing them during interviews with "Entertainment Tonight." The TV show will continue to invite celebrities to sign their portrait during the Cannes Film Festival (May 16-27). For more information, call 800-728-6273 or visit http://www.cunard.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Cruise Passenger Group Pushes for Independent Security

A group of families representing people unhappy with the way alleged crimes are handled by cruise lines issued a press release with recommendations for reporting and investigating onboard incidents. International Cruise Victims (ICV) calls its plan "Cruise line Law Adherence Monitoring Personnel" (CLAMP) and says it would require an independent security force onboard all cruise ships. ICV concludes that "current onboard cruise line security management appears to lack adequate passenger and crew safety training, especially in response to reports of incidents." The ICV release includes a quote by Congressman Christopher Shays (R-Conn.), who has called federal hearings on cruise ship safety. "I am working on a bipartisan legislative proposal to improve disclosure on crimes on cruise ships in order to increase the transparency of the industry," Shays said.

In response, the Cruise Lines International Association issued the following statement: "The cruise industry shares the commitment of providing a safe and secure environment for cruise passengers and aiding those who experience otherwise. The member lines of CLIA make safety and security their utmost priority and will continue to work with all interested parties to further strengthen safety measures and guest care. Cruising is one of the most popular vacation options in large part because of its excellent safety record and high levels of onboard service." For more information, visit http://www.internationalcruisevictims.org/ or CLIA's site at http://www.cruising.org/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
For more information, please contact eric@bestcruisespot.com or (866) 277-8618.

Best Cruise Spot LLC was founded on the principles of creating the ultimate destination for cruise travel by integrating an innovative Web 2.0 technology with an online cruise shopping experience to deliver the most enjoyable and satisfying cruise vacation purchase experience available to online cruise shoppers worldwide. Combining with our first-class customer service and a guarantee of the lowest fares available to all of our customers, make us become one of the largest sellers of cruise vacations on the internet.

Carnival Splendor to Launch Northern Europe Program

Carnival Cruise Lines' new 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor -- representing a new class of vessel with innovations such as new spa staterooms -- will debut in July 2008 operating the line's first-ever Northern European cruise program. These 12-day Northern Europe voyages, which will operate July 13 through Aug. 30, 2008, will visit Denmark, Germany, Finland, Russia, Estonia and The Netherlands. Following the Northern European voyages, Carnival Splendor will feature a 12-day London-to-Rome cruise Sept. 11, 2008, and then sail a series of 12-day Mediterranean voyages Sept. 23 through Oct. 17, 2008.

Carnival Splendor will be the second Carnival ship deployed in Europe next year, joining the Carnival Freedom which will operate a program of 12-day Mediterranean cruises May-to-October 2008. Also included in Carnival Splendor's 2008 inaugural season will be a 16-day transatlantic voyage departing Rome Oct. 29, as well as a series of seven-day Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale commencing Nov. 22, 2008. A one-time four-day eastern Caribbean cruise will depart from Fort Lauderdale Nov. 17, 2008. The 12-night Northern Europe debuts July 13, 2008, departing from London (Dover). Other departure dates include July 25, Aug. 6, Aug. 18 and Aug. 30, 2008. Ports include Copenhagen, Denmark; Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia (two-day call); Tallin, Estonia; and Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Following the Northern Europe cruises, Carnival Splendor will operate a one-time 12-day Western Mediterranean cruise departing London (Dover) Sept. 11, 2008, and calling at Le Havre (Paris), France; Vigo, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; Malaga and Barcelona, Spain; Cannes, France; and Livorno, Italy. Carnival Splendor will then operate one "Grand Mediterranean" and two "Mediterranean & Greek Isles" cruises round-trip from Rome (Civitavecchia) Sept. 23 to Oct. 17, 2008. The 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruise will depart Sept. 23, 2008, and call at Naples and Venice (two-day call), Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Sicily; Barcelona, Spain; Cannes, France; and Livorno, Italy. The two 12-day Mediterranean & Greek Isles cruises will depart Oct. 5 and Oct. 17, 2008, calling at Naples, Italy; Marmaris, Izmir (Ephesus) and Istanbul, Turkey, with scenic cruising of the Dardanelles; Athens (Piraeus) and Katakolon, Greece; and Livorno, Italy, as well as an overnight call in Rome (Civitavecchia). As the first in a new class of "Fun Ships," Carnival Splendor will offer a 21,000-square-foot health and fitness center, which will feature Carnival's first elaborate thermal suite and thalassotherapy pool covered by a glass dome.

Surrounding the facility will be 68 spa staterooms, also a first for Carnival. Guests in spa staterooms will have exclusive entry access to the adjacent spa facilities and will receive a wide array of special offerings including priority spa appointments, unlimited use of the thermal suite and thalassotherapy pool, complimentary fitness classes and other amenities. Carnival will begin accepting reservations for Carnival Splendor's European and Caribbean departures on May 10, 2007. Prices for the 12-day Northern Europe cruises begin at $1,299 per person, based on double occupancy; rates for the 12-day Mediterranean cruises start at $1,249; a 16-day transatlantic crossing starts at $849 per person and seven-day Caribbean cruises begin at $469 per person. The one-time cruise from Fort Lauderdale begins at $239 per person. For additional information, call 800-327-9501 or visit http://www.bookccl.com/.

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About the author: Eric Lam is a Cruise Consultant of Best Cruise Spot LLC, www.bestcruisespot.com
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