Fun 2 Cruise News

Get Out of the Winter Cold

2010-11-30T05:31:00.000-08:00

Looking to get out of the Winter Cold ??
Here's a Fabulous Cruise, priced just right hitting some Awesome Islands.

Call for current pricing details.

Panama Canal

2010-08-17T17:29:00.000-07:00

Ever wanted to Cruise the Panama Canal but dreaded the long flight both ways? Now you can have it all, Cruise the Canal and end in Baltimore. Last Chance, this ship isn’t coming back to Baltimore next year.

Celebrity Mercury, October 1, 2010, San Diego to Baltimore

Cruise thru the Panama Canal and visit:
Cabo San Lucas – Acapulco - Huatulco, MX – Puntarenas, Costa Rica - Cartengena, Columbia and Santo Domingo
The Panama Canal, an incredible marvel of engineering, a liquid highway of commerce flanked by a fabulous rain forest, a must see on everyone’s list, what better way to see it than by “Sea?”

Traversing the canal is an extraordinary experience. You'll want to stay on deck most of the time to observe the Panamanian countryside. One of the world’s largest artificial lakes, Gatun Lake covers more than 160 sq mi and is an integral part of the canal passage. Gatun is rich in wildlife, as your ship sails around islands that were once hilltops, you're likely to see lots of birds. (Take good binoculars.) Crocodiles can sometimes be seen raising their snouts from the water.

Some of the ports you may visit and fun things to do on your journey in Panama are listed below.

Cabo San Lucas is part of the region known as Los Cabos, or the Capes. Sitting almost where the desert peninsula crumbles into the Sea of Cortez, once a ramshackle fishing village it is now more tourist oriented than San Jose. The town is the center of the region's ever evolving shopping and dining scene, Boulevard Marina is lined with restaurants, bars and shops. West of downtown is El Faro Viejo, the old lighthouse set amid sand dunes on the Pacific Ocean. There are no paved roads out to the lighthouse; visitors can see it by all-terrain vehicle or boat excursion.

Acapulco, Mexico's original seaside resort has enticed vacationers for years and is also a backyard beach to residents of Mexico City, as a result, Acapulco feels more authentically Mexican than resorts such as Cancun or Los Cabos, which are tailored to vacationers from abroad.

Home to dazzling restaurants and a decadent disco scene, this stop is a playground that never sleeps. Famous for having the first major rock 'n' roll club in Mexico called Tequila A Go Go, now a shopping mall, once drew celebrities and launched Acapulco’s reputation as an after-dark mecca. Be sure to try the city's most famous drink from any local pub, the coco loco is tequila, coconut milk and a splash of secret ingredients.

Huatulco's Mexican colonial style architecture is just a few decades old. This is the country's newest Pacific-coast resort area and is an attempt to balance tourism and environmental preservation. Mexico set aside about 60% of Huatulco (pronounced wah-TOOL-koh) as an ecological reserve, and all new construction adheres to strict codes: No buildings taller than six stories and plenty of open space and natural vegetation in between.

If you want to visit the beach, your biggest dilemma may be to choose which one, in Huatulco you’ll discover nine gorgeous bays and 36 golden beaches, many ringed by coral reefs, underwater grottoes or canyons that attract shoals of fish. The bays are protected national parks and are home to 413 plant species, 291 types of birds, 130 different mammals, 72 reptile and 15 amphibian species. Santa Cruz, the original fishing village, has been completely transformed. You can stroll around the open plaza and visit the pottery, silver and leather artisans. Just a mile inland you can visit “downtown” La Crucecita, everything is new, though it looks similar to a Mexican village that's grown up naturally. Unlimited water sports as well as adventures to nearby coffee plantations and mountain streams mean there's something for most visitors to do, or simply relax in deluxe seclusion.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica, a small Pacific coast city about 50 miles west of San Jose is built at the tip of a long, narrow peninsula. Restaurants and shops line the Malecon, a pedestrian walkway that runs along the waterfront north of town. Take an hour or so to explore the city, it's a good place to shop for unique souvenirs, have a local coffee and take photos. A small museum has displays on regional indigenous pre-Columbian culture, the importance of coffee in the town's evolution, plus miscellaneous pieces and maps that relate to the maritime history of Puntarenas.

Costa Rica is considered by many to be the sport fishing capital of the world or explore the tropical forests on horseback, a good place for spotting monkeys, sloths and other wildlife. Be adventurous on the zipline canopy tour or ski-lift style cages that whisk you up a forested mountainside.

Cartagena city walls stand as a romantic reminder of its glorious past, they were the city's main defense against pirates in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. The magical presence of the walls has protected Colombia's northern land from social, political and drug-related violence. The narrow cobblestoned streets are enchanting as you stroll among Emerald and leather shops that fill the colonial buildings.

The city has been a refuge for Colombian and foreign vacationers, Greta Garbo was a regular visitor, and Marlon Brando stayed for a little while after filming in the 1970s. Fidel Castro appeared in public without his military uniform for the first time in Cartagena, bowing to the city's code of informality by wearing the traditional white cotton shirt of the tropics.

East Coast Sailing

2009-04-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

Tired of the Caribbean? Don’t want to fly to some far away port for a more exotic sailing? What about your own backyard? Explore America.

American Cruise lines graces Baltimore with a handful of specialty sailings in 2009 and 2010, May thru July and then again Sept thru October for the magnificent Fall Foliage sailings. With American, small ship cruising is done perfectly to explore the inland waterways, bays and rivers of the majestic east coast.

With a Chesapeake Bay sailing you’ll visit ports with charm and history like, Yorktown, Crisfield, Tangier & Solomon’s Islands, Cambridge and St. Michaels. Or take an extended one way sailing thru Wilmington, Charleston, Hilton Head, Savannah and Jekyll Island, GA on your way to Amelia Island, Fl. Along the shores you'll pass shipwrights, marinas and scenic lighthouses as you glide into the heart of coastal villages only accessible to small ships.

Full of history and culture, the blue crab capitol villages have played crucial roles in the major naval battles, Revolutionary War, the War of 1812 and the Civil War. Step back into the past when visiting the Colonial Williamsburg living history museum, stroll through the narrow streets of a quaint island town, abundant with crab shanties. Explore the maritime museums and listen to stories told in native accents thought to be nearly unchanged since the days of the first English colonists.

During your sailing your vessel will be in the company of skipjacks and schooners for an up close waterfront feel that you can’t get with the big ships. To enhance your small ship experience carefully selected naturalists and historians join you onboard for informal lectures, open discussions and activities. They also lead shore excursions, giving guests behind-the-scenes tours of the local history, nature and culture alive with their knowledge and passion.

With no more than 100 guests onboard, passengers experience each port up close and personal, while enjoying the camaraderie of like minded travelers. You'll appreciate the relaxation that the absence of casinos, shows and discos brings to your vacation. In their absence you will enjoy guest musicians from the local towns, demonstrations, minor theatrical performances and games. Each activity is rich in history and culture, and designed to highlight the areas you are visiting.

The dining experience proves the exemplary service that is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines. Each ship has a spacious dining salon that seats all passengers at one time. Highly skilled chefs prepare each meal to order with the utmost care and quality. There are a variety of choices at every meal that frequently include a specialty dish highlighting flavors from the local region. The all-American dining room staff is always friendly and accommodating, and eager to pamper you, making sure that your dining experience is just the way you like it.

Pamper yourself with a Luxury sailing, call for rates and itineraries today.

Carole Novak your personal Cruise Specialist
410-877-8232 fun2cruise@comcast.net

Associate of Sara Perkins –Franchise owner, Abingdon, MD
http://www.sailwithsara.com/

Another New Ship In Town

2009-04-23T08:25:00.001-07:00

Another NEW SHIP IN TOWN!!

Royal Caribbean International has been setting cruise industry standards since its creation. For years we’ve had The Grandeur of the Seas sailing from Baltimore, in June 2010 she will be replaced by her sister ship The Enchantment of the Seas.

Although the same class of ship, The Enchantment has had the ship version of an "extreme makeover" in early 2005, she was fully refurbished by adding a new 73 foot midsection and brimming with exciting new features. Before she sails into port in Baltimore she will be refurbished again with a facelift for bedding and public areas.

What can you do with 73 more feet? Besides adding 151 staterooms as well as amazing new indoor and outdoor public areas one of the most exciting changes was the addition of the new Bungee Trampolines for serious thrill seekers, (a Royal Caribbean first!).

The suspension bridges that now span the expanded pool deck, which boasts new interactive Splash Deck and floor windows for an ocean view. Work up a sweat in the state of the art fitness facilities; and then cool down with a cone from Ben & Jerry's. Enjoy a specialty dining experience in Chops grill and then dance the night away in Boleros Latin themed lounge. With all her changes, the Enchantment is more enchanting than ever!

Both ships will continue alternating the 5 night Bermuda, 9 Night Eastern Caribbean and 8/9 Night Canada, New England sailings. Call for itinerary and pricing details today.

Royal Caribbean continues to offer its guests many "firsts," including a rock-climbing wall, an ice-skating rink and windows that face inward onto the Promenade on its Voyager-class ships. Royal Caribbean's ships sail to worldwide destinations, offering guests many diverse onboard amenities. Some of these include fine dining, exciting shows, full service spas and fitness centers, dancing and much more. It is easier now than ever to experience a Royal Caribbean adventure, experiencing whatever you like to do: including swimming with stingrays, glacier-trekking or biking through Copenhagen. Your possibilities are endless.

Adventure OceanTM Family cruising becomes pure enjoyment for parents and their children on every Royal Caribbean ship. The Adventure Ocean program for young cruisers is free and has long been recognized as one of the industry's best. All children's activities are supervised by male and female Youth Staff, professionally certified in education, recreation and/or preschool, or having qualified experience in working with children ages three to 17.
ShipShape Program Royal Caribbean's ShipShape program, facilities and spa treatments offer some of the most advanced exercise options afloat, plus luxurious body-pampering amenities and a view of the sea.

Each Royal Caribbean ship features special ShipShape areas designed for fitness. On the six Vision-class ships, the ShipShape facilities are located behind the indoor/outdoor pool area called The Solarium. Voyager-class ships boast Aerobics and Health Centers each span over 15,000-square-feet of workout, aerobics and spa facilities, in addition to 10,000-square-feet of Solarium relaxation.

Carole Novak your personal Cruise Specialist
410-877-8232 fun2cruise@comcast.net

Associate of Sara Perkins –Franchise owner, Abingdon, MD
http://www.sailwithsara.com/

The Value of Cruising

2009-01-11T07:40:00.000-08:00

The amazing value of a cruise has never been so clear in comparison to other vacation options, especially now with so many choices out of Baltimore. If you read my blog article on “My 1st Cruise Experience” you know my take on Cruising vs. going to Ocean City, but below, check out the in depth details of why you will have so much more fun on a cruise.

We have had a beautiful ship, Royal Caribbean’s, Grandeur of the Seas, leaving out of Baltimore for many years. Last year, we acquired the NCL Majesty sailing to Bermuda and if that wasn’t exciting enough, this year, besides those two great ships, we will have The Carnival Pride and Celebrity’s Mercury.

I am especially excited about The Carnival Pride, so this article / comparison will be based on her details. I will write another time about the equally amazing Celebrity Mercury, who I sailed Alaska on this past summer.

Cruises combine accommodations, fine dining, entertainment, and activities. And, as opposed to land-based vacations, comfortable transportation is included! Now, with only a few weeks planning, you can enjoy the getaway you need and deserve. Call me today to plan your great Get a Way.

When you consider that over of 96% of cruisers are satisfied with their vacation choice, versus a 73% approval rating among land vacationers, you'll realize that cruising is the best option. Let's compare basic costs of typical cruise and land getaways:

A 7 Night Typical Resort stay vs. a *7 Night BahamasCruise on Carnival Pride.

Accommodations on land $875.00, at sea $907.00

Meals on land $420.00, at sea, Included.

Activities & Entertainment, $200.00, at sea Included.

Gratuities $ 95.00, $70.00.

Totals, Land $1,590.00 Sea *$977.00
* Based on BALCONY accommodations, April 2009

Now, more on Carnival and Carnival Pride.
Carnival has been around for 36 Years of Fun. The dream of Ted Arison, Carnival was launched in 1972 with a converted transatlantic liner. It was Arison’s dream to make the cruise experience accessible to the average family.

Today Carnival is one of the largest and most successful cruise lines in the world and offers quality cruise vacations at affordable prices. The best value in the entire vacation marketplace with 23 floating resorts operating voyages of 3 to 18 days in length to more than 60 destinations.

For the past two years, Carnival Cruise Lines have been voted the number one cruise choice in Southern Living Magazine’s annual readers’ poll. For the past six years, Carnival Cruise Lines has earned "best value" honors from the World Cruise & Ocean Liner Society.

Carnival prides itself in appealing to a wide variety of ages, lifestyles, and income levels. The median age of a Carnival guest is 44, but cruises include singles, young couples, families, and retired people. In other words, today’s Carnival cruise clientele is anyone and everyone.

Description of Carnival Pride

If most of your ship's extra-spacious staterooms featured ocean views and the majority of those boasted private balconies, you would have reason to be proud too. A masterpiece in the art of having fun, CARNIVAL PRIDE has everything you could want on your vacation. Outdoors, you'll love her pools, whirlpools, Carnival's Twister Waterslide and Sliding Sky Dome, which covers the aft pool in the event of a shower. The indoor excitement includes pampering at Spa Carnival playing your favorite games at the Winner's Club casino and dining and dancing at David's, the reservations-only supper club. So if you see our crew beaming as you come aboard, that's just their confidence in knowing you're going to have the best possible cruise vacation. featured ocean views and the majority of those boasted private balconies, you would have reason to be proud too. A masterpiece in the art of having fun, CARNIVAL PRIDE has everything you could want on your vacation. Outdoors, you'll love her pools, whirlpools, Carnival's Twister Waterslide and Sliding Sky Dome, which covers the aft pool in the event of a shower. The indoor excitement includes pampering at Spa Carnival playing your favorite games at the Winner's Club casino and dining and dancing at David's, the reservations-only supper club. So if you see our crew beaming as you come aboard, that's just their confidence in knowing you're going to have the best possible cruise vacation.

Food
One of every Virgin Cruisers biggest question is. Can you really eat 24/7? YES!

So, let’s take some comparisons on food for our land based stay, our average of $420 for the week, that’s pretty cheap on vacation. Those prices were based on fast-food for breakfast and some lunches and your average 3 course meal at an average chain restaurant.

But let’s talk about upgrades, Room Service on land? Sometimes you want that mid-night snack, or jus want to hang in your room for breakfast. I’ve never seen a room service bill under $20, but on the Pride, you can use it UNLIMITED at no charge.

Now those breakfasts that we priced on land, they were really mediocre fastfood type meals. In all fairness, what you are getting on the ship is more like you would get if you went to a high end restaurants breakfast or buffet lunch. Those brunches can run $25 or more.

Lunches, the same thing. All though you can get just that burger, pizza or sub if you want it, the value of the meals you will receive on the cruise, salad, drink, meal and dessert, god knows you can’t go without dessert on a cruise, already included in your pricing, are at least $20 value on land.

Dinners in our comparison doesn’t even touch the level of food and service that you get on a cruise. You’re going to savor exquisite gourmet meals in the elegant Normandie Restaurant, on land these meals would cost you at least $50 a plate.

Want something more casual, try Mermaid’s grill. Still top quality food and an awesome selection. On land, this would cost you at least $25.00.

Try a specialty dining experience at David’s Supper Club. 5 course meal, live band for only $30, Ruth Chris would cost you well over $75 p/p.

What did all this upgrades food and service cost you over our original comparison. ZERO

Now let’s talk about Extra’s, things to do
When you think of a pass time in O/C what are some of the things that come to mind ? Beach / Waterpark / Boardwalk / Mini Golf / Clubs-Pubs

On board you have Pools, waterslides, basketball court, a 9-hole golf course and more. Sounds like your neighborhood country club?

Let’s start with Mini Golf I know this is huge pass time in O/C for family’s and couple both. All of the courses I was able to find pricing on ranged $5 to $7 per person per game.

Hmm, how much on the cruise you ask? ZIP

Now, if you have kids, you’re hitting a waterpark at least once. If you’re going with me, we’re going several times.

Entry fee to an Ocean City popular water park $30.00 per person, In a day, because ½ of your day is spent standing in line, you may get to go down 8 or 10 slides. On the Pride, you have all week, ride the slide as often as you want.

Oh, what’s it cost you say? NO CHARGE!

So you want to just hang around the pool, you have 3 main Pools to choose from plus the aft pool which has a dome cover in case of showers, plus 4 spa/Jacuzzis.
So what else are you going to do with the kids? Camp Carnival offers great activities for kids of every age group.

Toddlers enjoy age-appropriate activities for your 2-5 year-olds. Anything from finger painting to cartoon time, arts and crafts to puppet shows, your little ones will have a blast! Toddlers do not have to be potty-trained in order to be part of Camp Carnival; parents simply need to provide the youth staff with diapers and toiletries for their child.

Juniors, 6-8 year old guests enjoy fun activities like Spin Art, dodge ball, volcano making. They will also participate in a large variety of themed activities and games, including prize bingo, water colors, jewelry making, air hockey and more.

Your kids will have so much fun they won’t even notice their being supervised.

Intermediates, 9-11 will play all day, dodgeball (with their age group) pool parties, video games and ship wide scavenger hunts. They’ll be excited about the new friends they’ve made and not want to leave for dinner. Talent shows, music and movement activities, makes me want to play at camp carnival.

For teens and older there is Circle C and Club 02 to just chill with kids their own ages. They can participate in the same types of fun activities, video games, sports and dance party’s.

What is the cost for all this cool stuff for your kids?!?! Nothing, Zero, Zip.
You aren’t getting that at the Ocean.

So, now that you’ve got your kids off having fun, what about you?
Ever go to your hotels gym and find it less than mediocre? Not on the Pride, a beautiful fitness facility with state of the art equipment, plus aerobics, yoga, spinning classes and health seminars.

So you like your beach jog with ocean views? Take to the Jogging Track up on the sports deck, with a bird’s eye view and NO Sand in your shoes. Take a power walk on The Prides Exterior Promenade, 1 lap around the ship equals 1/10 of a mile.

Grab some friends for a game of Volley Ball or Basket Ball.
Hang out at the main pool for crazy cruise staff activities or just lounge and listen to the Calypso sounds.

Had enough sun, time for some indoor activities that range from wine tasting seminars, digital photography classes, destination lectures, art auctions, dance classes and the ever favorite Bingo.

Want some quiet time, visit the Nobel Library and internet café or the aft pool and relax with a good book. The only quiet time you’re getting in O/C is in your hotel room.

Or visit the spa, you will spend some money on your quiet time here, but you can pamper yourself with massages, body wraps, facials, loofah treatments, thermal suites and water therapies.

Nightclubs ?
Life aboard The Pride definitely heats up when thesun goes down. At O/C, cover charges ranging from $5 to $15 on any OC club, No cover charge in the hot spots on the Pride.

Try Butterflies Lounge or The Oxford Bar for gathering with friends, old and new.
Get your groove on at Beauties dance club and dance the night away.
Check out the cool sounds coming from Starry Night Jazz Club or Ivory Piano Bar. If you like the Sports Bar feel, visit the Perfect Game Bar, still NO cover Charge for any of these spots.

Don’t forget to try lady luck in Winners Club Casino which will rival any Casino in Las Vegas.

Movies, $10.00 on land, no charge on the Pride for 1st run movies. Pay per view in you cabin is also available.

What about the theater? To see a Comedy show or musical revue, you would pay out the whazoo in any resort spot. NO charge on the Pride a beautiful show lounge Taj Mahal just for your viewing pleasure. See Las Vegas caliber revues, comedy shows, magic shows, the possibility’s are endless.

EVERY NIGHT, NO CHARGE

So now, even though a cruise on the Carnival Pride is a better dollar value than a week at Ocean City, you can see with all the Extras that you get on your cruise, it is definitely a much better Vacation Value. Call me today, I’ll help you plan your Get a Way, right from your own backdoor!

Carole Novak your personal Cruise Specialist
410-877-8232 fun2cruise@comcast.net

Associate of Sara Perkins – Franchise owner, Abingdon, MD
http://www.sailwithsara.com/

New Ships for 2009

2009-01-11T07:13:00.000-08:00

Cruising has a long reputation for being the top vacation choice, now, more than ever, with the cost of fuel on the rise, finding and getting to that “oh so perfect” destination can be daunting. In an era of declining personal service, CruiseOne, stands out as a refreshing change. Our agents will combine the latest technology with old-fashioned personal service to find and plan that perfect cruise vacation, at the perfect price, and to the perfect destinations.

Today’s cruise market offers everything from ice skating to miniature golf and “surfing”. There's an entire staff on board organizing activities to insure that you and everyone you are traveling with always have a wide variety of activities to choose from. This creates some outstanding opportunities for parents and grandparents to relax in the spa, read a book by the pool, see a movie, try their luck in the casino or attend a wine tasting while your kids are having a great time on a treasure hunt.”

With today’s hectic schedules, a cruise is the perfect solution for individuals with many different interests and is ideal for “multi-generation” groups. Now is the time to plan your family vacation.

Even in light of the economic slump the cruise lines know the value of the vacations they prove and over the next 4 years there are 37 new ships on order for the major cruise lines. 8 of these ships will be out in 2009. With huge value for the dollar spent cruising offers opportunities to see the world by sea. Call me to explore your corner of the world.

Below are some highlights for the ships launching in 2009.

Costa Luminosa, May 5, 2009, 2,828 passengers
The name Luminosa implies light, the ship will feature special lighting effects during evening performances in the main show lounge and an innovative 4-D cinema. This ship offers the very best of the Costa product in terms of wellness, entertainment, exclusive itineraries, art, intimate settings, as well as fine food and wine. Other Costa firsts on the Costa Luminosa include a roller-skating rink, an 18-hole golf course simulator with 37 virtual gofl courses and outdoor putting green. The Club Restaurant, offers guests a view right into the large kitchen. Sixty-eight percent of the ship's cabins feature private balconies.

Costa Pacifica, June 6, 2009, 3,780 passengers
Like her sister ships, Costa Serena and Costa Concordia, the Costa Pacifica boasts the state-of-the-art Samsara Spa. This 20,500-square-foot space houses a wellness center, spa, salon and fitness center. She will also feature popular innovations found on her sister ships, including a covered swimming pool area extending over two decks, and a Grand Prix race car driving simulator and 13 bars and lounges. The public areas are inspired by a different genre of music, and throughout the ship passengers will have opportunities to enjoy arrangements composed especially for Costa.

Seabourn Odyssey, June 24, 2009, 450 passengers
The first new 6-star vessel in six years will have 225 suites, three times larger than its fleetmates, but carrying only double the passengers allows for the highest space-per-passenger ratios at sea. The spa will be the largest on any luxury ship, spanning two decks! Indoor and outdoor treatment rooms offer everything from massages to facials, thalassotherapy whirlpool, Finnish saunas, aromatic steam rooms and more. The revolutionary fitness center will feature a pulley system called the Kinesis wall which combines three fitness components, cardiovascular, strength and flexibility for a shorter more efficient workouts.

Public spaces include four dining venues, offering options from casual grilled food to gourmet tasting menus; six bars and lounges, where complimentary fine wines and spirits flow freely. 90 percent of the suites on the all-suite ship will have verandahs. that measure around 65 square ft. The traditional in-suite dining from regular menus will be expanded to include course-by-course suppers on verandahs.

MSC Splendida, July 13, 2009, 3,959 passengers
MSC Splendida is a ship looking to the future but drawing from its past. With 290,000 square feet of public areas the ship will accommodate guests of all ages with a plethora of onboard activities, amenities. Passengers can try their hand at basketball, tennis, swimming, virtual auto racing and miniature golf, younger guests will enjoy the children's water park or hanging out in teen centers with video games and karaoke.

The well-being center - AUREA SPA, which covers 17,384 square feet, will feature a sauna, yoga and a complete beauty salon. The Splendida will feature a diverse selection of dining venues, each serving up its own unique cuisine.

Celebrity Equinox, August 8, 2009, 2,852 passengers
As a sister ship to Solstice launched November 2008, Equinox will boast all of the same interesting onboard features. These include The Lawn Club, a half acre area on the top deck of the ship with real growing grass and a country club atmosphere, where passengers can play croquet or golf, relax and mingle, take in glassblowing demonstrations and lectures. The ship will also feature Quasar, a futuristic disco; and a selection of 10 restaurants, covering all genres including French, steaks and chops, and Asian-fusion.

Staterooms on the Celebrity Equinox and sister Solstice-class ships, 85% verandahs, are 15% larger than on other Celebrity vessels and boast flat-screen televisions and wireless Internet access.

Carnival Dream, September 21, 2009, 3,646 passengers
Carnival Dream will not only be the largest and most spaceful in Carnival's "Fun Ship" fleet, but also a very luxury ship. With 5 different classes of staterooms, the upper decks will offer large apartments for the VIP guests, there will be new "cove" balcony staterooms located close to the waterline, deluxe oceanview staterooms featuring two bathrooms, and spa staterooms and suites with exclusive amenities and spa privileges.

The dream will keep you busy with a two-level miniature golf course, the WaterWorks aqua park, the Piazza, an indoor/outdoor cafe and live music venue,large parks situated on open decks and alleyways for a nice stroll with your friends. Plus the dancing club and large cinema, there will also be extensive children's and teens' areas with activities for three age groups.

Cloud 9 spa, Carnival's largest health and wellness center to date, has scenic whirlpools extending beyond the ship's beam and two large fitness halls. You can spend all your time on board this ship it will be built to bring leisure to all customers on board.

Ocean Princess, December 2, 2009, 688 passengers
Formerly the Tahitian Princess, the Ocean Princess will provide her passengers with spacious cabins and a cozy atmosphere. Smaller in size yet rich in amenities this beautiful vessel features an array of onboard activities including the classic shuffleboard and a golf practice cage, nine hole putting course and two computerized golf simulators. Relax on deck by the one of the pools or waterfall, or get a massage at the Lotus Spa.

At night, fine fare abounds in refined traditional dining rooms or a range of alternative dining venues: Sabatini's Italian Restaurant, Sterling Steakhouse and a 24-hour buffet. Lago's pizzeria a central location on the top level of the atrium lobby features freshly-baked pizzas, wine and beer.
With the majority of the ship's cabins sporting balconies, you won't have to miss a single sunset.

MSC Magnifica, December 7, 2009, 3,013 passengers
With 236,000 square feet of public space, Magnifica will be one of the largest ships in the MSC fleet. 80% of the staterooms will be ocean views, with 65% balconies. The ship will feature 7 themed areas, 2 pools, one with a retractable roof so guests may swim rain or shine, 4 hot tubs, plus a 13,000-square-foot spa. Guests can select from four restaurants, including a specialty sushi bar.

Royal Caribbean, Oasis of the Seas December 5, 2009, 5,400 passengers
Oasis of the Seas will truly be one-of-a-kind, this highly anticipated ship is the largest ship ever built and the first to deliver the "neighborhoods" concept where everyone can find their unique experience. The 7 neighborhoods each offer its own unique experiences. Central Park combines nature and nautical where guests can peruse the art gallery or unwind in the sophisticated wine bar. The more adventurous passengers can head toward the Boardwalk, and area dedicated to family fun to try out the world's first onboard zipline or take in a show at the Aqua Theater.

The pool and sports zone will offer more options than you can imagine! Taking up an entire deck with multiple pools, rock-climbing walls, miniature golf, ping pong, two FlowRiders® and a basketball court. All this plus amazing views of BoardwalkSM and Central ParkSM below.

The heart of the ship will be in the Royal Promenade, the most expansive promenade at sea. With enough shops and restaurants to entertain even the most traveled of travelers, the Promenade will feature the Rising Tide, a levitating bar that ascends and descends over three decks and comes alive at night parades and entertainment.

With 37 categories to choose from, many with views unique to Oasis of the Seas, you accommodation choices seem limitless. In addition to traditional staterooms there are state-of-the-art lofts, multi-level suites, Aqua suites and more.

Carole Novak your personal Cruise Specialist

410-877-8232 fun2cruise@comcast.net

Associate of Sara Perkins – Franchise owner, Abingdon, MD

http://www.sailwithsara.com/

My 1st Cruise Experience

2009-01-10T14:01:00.000-08:00

I got & hooked on cruising when I was in my early 20’s. Everyone thought my husband & I were crazy going on a cruise at such a young age, (cruises where for old people). We went anyway and boy did our experience prove everyone wrong. We had a blast; there were couples of all ages, families with kids, singles too.

Our first cruise was a short Bahamas itinerary but there were plenty of excursions to choose from. We chose a bike tour of Freeport, a leisurely shoreline ride thru native settlements. We stopped for a dip and snack at the beach, then off for a ride thru the marketplace for some shopping. On the private island stop we learned to snorkel, but that’s a whole other story for another time.

Other excursions offered ranged from relaxing on various island, shopping and garden tours, glass bottom boat, Jeep and or ATV rides, scuba, zip line, Jet Ski, kayaking, and the list just goes on and on. You could be as active or inactive as you chose.

On board we hung out at the pool listening to the cool Caribbean tunes of steel drums, played some silly pool games, played volley ball and mini golf. When we had enough sun we relaxed with a good book in one of the lounges with awesome ocean views or hung out on our balcony and watch the sea go by. At night we saw a Broadway style show, a hilarious comedian and entertaining magician. We aren’t much of gamblers, but there was plenty of that going on, we danced the night away instead. Most ships have 2 or 3 lounges to choose from.

Our 1st cruise was a much better experience than any other vacation I had been on. Being a resident of Maryland, most of our family vacations consisted of visiting Ocean City. Just sitting at the beach, playing mini-golf and hanging out on the boardwalk don’t compare at all to a cruise vacation. You can have all the simplicity of an O/C vacation or all the excitement that you want, all in one trip.
A cruise is for everyone and it’s great that you can take many different personalities as a group and everyone has at their fingertips something they want to do, or not to do. There are so many cruise line personalities and ship amenities to choose from. As a cruise specialist, I look forward to helping you find the cruise that is a right fit for YOU. Whether you want to relax and veg out in the spa or solarium or you want to ride the waves of a flow rider, climb a rock wall or try zip lining at sea, I use my knowledge and training to put you on the right ship.

New Ships in and Around Town

2008-07-23T06:53:00.000-07:00

There’s No Place like a Homeport
Choosing where you want to go on your cruise is sometimes difficult with all the choices in today’s market. How about thinking about where you may want to start your cruise? Some cruisers may choose to travel out of a port close to home while others may choose their departure port based on a city they’ve been interested in visiting. No matter if you are close to home or miles away, ports of departure offer more than a place to get on your ship. Take a few extra days and visit the port.

We have a new Ship in Town for Baltimore

Coming September 2009
A masterpiece in the art of having fun, CARNIVAL PRIDE has everything you could want on your vacation. Outdoors, you'll love her 3 pools, whirlpools, with Carnival's Twister Waterslide and Sliding Sky Dome, which covers the aft pool in the event of a shower. The indoor excitement includes pampering at Spa Carnival playing your favorite games at the Winner's Club casino.

Named for international icons of beauty, this floating resort's public spaces are a source of PRIDE for the entire fleet. How does dinner at David's, the reservations-only supper club followed by an award-winning show at the Taj Majal sound? Or, you can grab a bite at Mermaid's Grille before checking out the cool sounds at the Starry Night Jazz Club. It's up to you. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. So, come aboard and behold for yourself.

7 Day, Year Round Itinerary
Port Canaveral – Nassau – Freeport

She will fill up FAST

Call now to get carried away from Home

Carole Novak / Cruise Specialist

410-877-8232

E-Mail fun2cruise@comcast.net
Independent Cruise Specialist with
Franchise Owner Sara Perkins-Abingdon MD
Visit www.SailWithSara.com for Current Cruise One Specials

More port info:

The Northeast
Up and down the East Coast you’ll find bustling cities full of character. Choose a cruise from Boston and take a day or two to indulge yourself in the cities rich history dating back to the Colonial times. Take a bite out of the Big Apple with great food, museums, Broadway shows and fabulous shopping. Visit the historic Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, the world’s largest Navy base in Norfolk or Inner Harbor in Baltimore which is home to the National Aquarium, Oriole Park, Fort McHenry and much more.

The South
The southeast is a great place to head out to sea. But before you jump onboard challenge yourself to a game of golf on some of the world’s best golf courses. Experience life before the Civil War at the magnificent plantations in Charleston, South Carolina. Jacksonville offers miles of uncrowded beaches and a bustling city with a hint of Southern charm. Embark from Port Canaveral and start your vacation early with a trip to the Kennedy Space Center and Orlando’s whimsical theme parks. Discover the “Venice of America” in Fort Lauderdale or stroll along Ocean Avenue in the famous South Beach district of Miami. To the west of Florida passengers can choose to depart from Mobile, Alabama, home to true southern hospitality, or spice things up a bit in New Orleans with some hot Cajun and Creole food, rich history and smooth jazz. For a quite retreat depart from Galveston and rekindle your passion on the small, romantic island.

The West
From California on northwards you’ll find a number of ports in the West Coast’s best cities. Get star struck in Los Angeles on Rodeo drive and Sunset Blvd. See where movies are made and where movie stars spend their off-screen time. San Diego offers some of the best weather in North America as well as a world-class zoo full of your favorite cuddly creatures. Trolley through San Francisco and check out the hilly streets that give way to gorgeous glimpses of the Bay. Heading north you’ll find the laid back town of Seattle home to great coffee and some of the best seafood along the Pacific Rim.

There is so much to see and do along the Pacific, Gulf and Atlantic coasts. If you want to add more adventure to your cruise vacation, be sure to include a pre- and post-cruise package and see the sites of America’s best cities.

CruiseOne is the only thing you’ll need to plan your next cruise vacation; offering most major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service, all at no additional cost to the traveler. Contact Carole Novak, your Local Independent Cruise Specialist at (410) 877-8232 or fun2cruise.com

October 29, 2009 Sailing, Explorer of the Seas sailing from NJ

2008-07-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

No Need to Fly
Click on the link to check out full details
http://www.dancewithfriends.com/Cruise.html

Handling Your Travel Funds Safely

2008-05-08T05:04:00.000-07:00

Handling Your Travel Funds Safely

(Travelers checks and other ways to safely and conveniently handle your money)

Travel is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, the last thing you want to think about is theft during your vacation. To be prepared for the possibility of potential problems, be sure to keep the following tips in mind when planning your trip.

Document all of your travel information before you depart on your trip. Leave a copy of your travel plans, passport & credit cards with a trusted family member and be sure to bring a copy with you. Write down your traveler’s check numbers and emergency phone numbers to contact the bank in the event your traveler’s checks are lost or stolen. Remember to keep this emergency information separate from the actual traveler’s checks.

Notify your Credit Card Company and Bank of your travel dates. Maintain a copy of your credit card numbers, expiration dates and emergency phone numbers and then keep separately from the actual credit cards. If two people are traveling together, try to have each carry a different credit card in the event that one should be lost or stolen. By safeguarding this information, you are then able to cancel credit cards and have traveler’s checks reissued, thereby preventing a would-be thief from making any fraudulent purchases.

Always keep a handbag tightly closed and next to you (preferably wearing it with straps crossed over your shoulder and body) when shopping in unfamiliar areas. Never place a purse on an empty chair or chair back, nor should it be set down or hung on the restroom floor or door.
It is important to also take precautions while vacationing on a cruise or an all-inclusive resort. Most operate on a key or room card system in which all purchases during your stay are applied to your room tab. If your key/room card is provided in an envelope, be sure your cabin/room number is not supplied. When signing for purchases during your vacation, always keep your receipts for verification at the end of the trip. Avoid temptation by never saying your room number or last name too loud when signing for purchases.

Be mindful of your surroundings and remain alert in crowded places such as bus stations and street celebrations where you are likely to be jostled. When sightseeing, go in groups or stay with your guided tour group in visible, public areas.

The bottom line here is to avoid becoming an easy target to a would-be thief. With all this said and done, you’re now on your way to an enjoyable traveling experience! Bon Voyage!

Your friends at CruiseOne,
Carole Novak your personal Cruise Specialist
410-877-8232 fun2cruise@comcast.net

Sara Perkins – Independent Franchise owner, Abingdon, MD
www.sailwithsara.com
Sheila Coon, Cruise Specialist
Vicki Neuser, Administrative Assistant