Orient Lines may not be returning after all.

 

The New Marco Polo II

Orient Lines has release a statement that its inaugural season, set to start in April of 09 is being delayed. The line is refunding all bookings on the Marco Polo II, the former Maxim Gorkiy. The line has furloughed ten full time employees and most of the sales force was let go.

Wayne Heller, the lines founder said, “We are exploring possible options to relaunch our cruise program at a more favorable time. This sound like the end of the line for Orient again. Too bad, I really thought it was going to make a go of it. I will keep you abreast of any future developments.

Stay Tune!

Royal Caribbean Creates “Youth Zone” On Oasis

 

Oasis of The Sea

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line will introduce the “Youth Zone” on it newest ship, The Oasis Of The Sea debuting December 12, 2009. The Youth Zone will be one of the 7 “Neighborhoods” on the ship. The Youth Zone will include, Kids Avenue and Central Boulvard which will connect various themed play areas. And Adventure Ocean Theater, a theater just for kids. Plus a first for Royal Caribbean a Nursery for infants at least 6 months old and toddlers.

The Oasis of The Seas is going to be the World’s Largest Cruise Ship at 220,000 GRT and will carry 5400 passengers.

Carnival Cruise Line to Rework Three Ships with More Balconies

 

The Theater on the Carnival Liberty

Carnival Cruise Lines announced that they will be taking 3 ships out of service over the next three months to add cabins with balconies. The three ships are the Carnival Destiny, Carnival Triumph and the Carnival Liberty.  A total of 48 balcony cabins will be added to these ships. These cabins will feature floor to ceiling windows.

 

Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival’s executive Vice President stated that “Balcony staterooms continue to be in great demand. In fact, they’re often the first cabin category to sell out.” 

Carnival will also add two, 750 square foot “deluxe penthouse suites,” to the Carnival Liberty. These two penthouse suites have a separate bedroom, living room and two full baths and can accommodate up to five passengers.

I am looking forward to these upgrades to these great Carnival Ships.

Orient Lines Returns with the Marco Polo II

 

 

Marco Polo II at anchor

 

Orient Lines, which was purchased by NCL a number of years ago and basically dismantled, is rising from the ashes today. Wayne Heller, CEO and owner of the “New Orient Line” announced today that Orient Line has acquired the SS Maxim Gorkly and will rename it the Marco Polo II. The 24,981 ton vessel is a classic ship in the tradition of Orient Line’s original Marco Polo, which was much loved by Orient Lines’ guests, said Wayne Heller. The ship will hold just over 600 passengers.

The new Marco Polo II will make her maiden voyage in April 2009 and sail from Barcelona on a Western Med itinerary.  You will be able to book your cruise on the Marco Polo II beginning on September 8, 2008. The cruise schedule is very destination focused with cruises ranging from 11 to 37 days. Prices will start at $2399 per person based on two to a cabin. The line will include several free shore excursions with each cruise. There will be a single seating in the dining room, which is a plus for all passengers as you won’t have to decide what seating to choose.

I am really looking forward to the launch of the new Orient Lines’ Marco Polo II. I hope it will continue the Orient Lines tradition of exceptional service.