CruiseSAT and ViacomCBS Partner to Launch Nick at Sea Channel for Cruise Ships

CruiseSAT is branching out from the Americas to offer global services and new premium and live content.

'We're excited about expanding to the rest of the world,' said Charles Sackermann, CEO of Digital Video Systems (DVS), the long-established parent company of CruiseSAT.

Until now, there hasn't been much competition in the space, according to DVS maritime consultant Shannon McKee of Access Cruise.

'We're bringing more variety, more flexibility and additional options,' Sackermann said. 'The technology we're using allows us to give a higher performance.'

Single satellite downlink

CruiseSAT provides high-definition and standard-definition linear networks including news, sports, entertainment and specialty networks and on-demand content using a single satellite downlink.

After launching in 2017 with Carnival Cruise Line as its first customer, CruiseSAT added Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises — but for services only in the Americas. Now, by going global, the door is open to all lines.

DVS provides satellite engineering, services and support for some 250 cruise ships worldwide and Sackermann said CruiseSAT was developed after listening to those customers' needs. CruiseSAT is now aboard more than 50 cruise ships so 'we see a large runway for our expansion.'

And having global reach makes it possible to serve emerging markets like the expedition cruise segment with its far-flung deployment.

News, sports, entertainment, live events

From a content perspective, CruiseSAT has master agreements with key partners and works closely with cruise lines to develop a package that best suits their demographics. The portfolio includes BBC World News, CNN, CBS News, FOX Business, Travel Channel, Food Network, HGTV, Discovery Channel, Turner Classic Movies, Cartoon Network, Rai Italia and Deutsche Welle.

CruiseSAT worked with partner ViacomCBS to create Nick at Sea. Unique to cruise lines, the Nickelodeon-branded channel features kids' programming from Nickelodeon's extensive catalogue.

Among the other available content is GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV and GMA News TV of the Philippines, ET Live, CNBC, MSNBC and Newsmax TV.

The sports portfolio includes ESPN, SEC ESPN, ESPNU, NFL Network and others. Last year more than 1,000 hours of prime events like NCAA March Madness Final Four, NFL games and the Super Bowl were available.

Cost-effective solutions

During this challenging period for the cruise industry, 'It's even more important for us to bring cost-effective solutions to our customers,' Sackermann said. 'We're a trusted partner. We'll continue to work with them through these difficult times.

'We're pushing the envelope to be cost-conscious and bring solutions that have high value but are reasonably priced.

More Nick: Nickelodeon Upfront 2020 Roundup!

Original source: Seatrade Cruise News.

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"Peppa Pig" Sets Sail With Costa Cruises

Entertainment One (eOne) has teamed up with Italy's Costa Cruises to launch Peppa Pig-themed kids' areas and activities on ten ships that will sail to more than 200 destinations around the globe!

Starting in April 2016, young passengers on board Costa Cruises's ships will be able to enjoy dedicated kids' areas that recreate memorable locations from the popular animated Nick Jr. series. Children will also be able to participate in character meet-and-greets, Peppa-themed creative games and activity workshops.

This is all part of Costa Cruises's wider marketing initiative called "Welcome to Happiness Squared," which is meant to offer consumers a series of unique experiences throughout the year.

"This exciting new partnership with Costa Cruises demonstrates that the appeal of Peppa Pig now stretches to a wide international audience," said Ami Dieckman, the head of international licensing at eOne. "Their cruise ships visit hundreds of destinations across the world so their commitment to the brand is testament to its longevity and strength as a global entertainment property.

"We've had a great deal of success in recent years with experiential events around the world. Kids absolutely love interacting with the brand in the real world and those experiences are a great way to engender long-term brand loyalty."

Luca Casaura, the Vice President (VP) of corporate marketing at Costa Cruises, added: "The concept of our new campaign is truly innovative: with Costa, your happiness is multiplied, because you can also see happiness in the eyes of your travel companions. Making kids happy is absolutely fundamental to reach this goal. That's why we chose Peppa Pig: kids all over the world love her and are thrilled to play with her."

Entertainment One's top-rated animated preschool series "Peppa Pig" airs on Nick Jr. channels worldwide, including Nick Jr. UK & Ireland, Nick Jr. USA and Nick Jr. Channel Australia & New Zealand.

Sources: TV Kids, Licensing.biz.

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Nickelodeon And Norwegian Cruise Line End Partnership

The cruise industry news website World of Cruising is reporting the unfortunate news that Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that NCL and Nickelodeon will be ending their agreement at the end of 2015, with Nickelodeon branding phased out fleet-wide by January 2016.

Photo via ncl.co.uk

Under the agreement with the number-one entertainment brand for kids and families, Nickelodeon-themed entertainment was offered on-board selected cruise ships in the Norwegian fleet. Activities on offer included: The Nickelodeon Aqua Park;Slime Time Live, Nickelodeon's signature messy game show; interactive games by the pool during Nick Live Poolside; Nickelodeon's Pajama Jam; dancing and singing during Dora's Music Party; character breakfasts with channel favourites including SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer; and more.

Branding shall be removed from Norwegian Epic during a brief spell in dry-dock in September 2015, while branding will be phased out on Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway in January 2016. Nickelodeon-themed entertainment planned for Norwegian Escape, currently under construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, will no longer appear at launch in October 2015.

The cruise line has not explained why the agreement was not renewed. However, they did state that since redeveloping their range of children's programs in 2012 they have seen a 20 percent improvement in guest satisfaction of Splash Academy for children and Entourage for teenagers. Andy Stuart, President and Chief Operating Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line, has said that the cruise line will continue to make significant investments to its programming and entertainment on-board its fleet of family-friendly cruise ships. Reference was made to Norwegian Escape which will feature the first Guppies Nursery, a nursery with separate areas for play and napping designed specifically for infants and toddlers aged between six months and two years old.

Norwegian Cruise Line was one of a handful of family-friendly cruise lines that had partnerships with major entertainment brands. Other lines with similar agreements include Royal Caribbean International and DreamWorks, Carnival Cruise Lines and Dr. Seuss, and Disney Cruise Line with its Disney characters.

Nickelodeon is also expanding their recreation program globally, with Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon planned to open in Malaysia imminently, Nickelodeon Land set to open at Sea World Australia later this year, and new Nickelodeon Hotels by Karisma Hotels & Resorts set to open in the Dominican Republic and Mexico from late-2016, allowing more fans around the globe to experience the world of Nickelodeon than ever before!

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NCL's Norwegian Getaway To Feature Exclusive Nickelodeon Experiences

The cruise ship industry news website Cruise Ship News is reporting the exciting Nickelodeon News in the following article that Norwegian Cruise Line's brand new cruise liner called the Norwegian Getaway will feature exclusive Nickelodeon experiences as part of NCL and Nick's "Nickelodeon At Sea" partnership, including the all-new SpongeBob SquarePants themed Kid's Aqua Park which will let you splash the day away with SpongeBob SquarePants and friends in a pirate-themed environment! Guests will also be able to learn how to dance like Dora the Explorer and watch exclusive stage shows featuring their favourite Nickelodeon characters!

NCL's Norwegian Getaway is currently under construction and is due to be launched and enter service in February 2014.

Cruise Ship News's article also features's a exclusive online streaming video clip, which you can watch below:

NCL entices Norwegian Getaway itinerary, cruise deals

Norwegian Getaway will offer families the ultimate vacation experience as the line announced that Nickelodeon®, the number-one entertainment brand for kids, will have a presence on its newest ship, Norwegian Getaway, when it sets sail from Miami beginning February 1, 2014.

Today we received an email from Norwegian Cruise Line enticing cruisers with some great news and deals, which focuses on the Norwegian Getaway itinerary. You can see what NCL has on offer below and this kicks off February 2014 from Miami.

You can cruise like a Norwegian from sun-soaked Miami aboard Norwegian Breakaway’s sister ship, Norwegian Getaway. Idle like an islander along The Waterfront, their quarter-mile Oceanside promenade. Light up like a shooting star at 678 Ocean Place, three decks of nonstop fun, filled with bars, nightlife, dining and shopping. Plunge like a porpoise at their exhilarating Aqua Park, home to the fastest waterslide at sea. And feast like a foodie with the adventurous flavors of Iron Chef Geoffrey Zakarian’s Ocean Blue, one of 26 unique dining experiences.

Norwegian Getaway offers 7-day cruises to the glorious Caribbean, all year round, beginning February 2014. So get ready to Cruise Like a Norwegian.


Norwegian Getaway to Feature Exclusive Nickelodeon Experiences – the video above this article reveals how imaginations run wild on Norwegian Getaway. And only Norwegian offers exclusive Nickelodeon entertainment at sea. Their Kid’s Aqua Park lets you splash the day away with SpongeBob SquarePants and friends in a pirate-themed environment. And with tons of family activities happening all over the ship, you can watch your children learn to juggle at circus school. Practice your cupcake-decorating skills. Or be part of our family fun challenges where your kids can take home a gold medal – and amazing memories that will last a lifetime.

Norwegian Getaway itineraries – you can read about each of the itineraries via the selected link: 7-DAY EASTERN CARIBBEAN FROM MIAMI | 10 DAY TRANSATLANTIC FROM SOUTHAMPTON | 11-DAY TRANSATLANTIC FROM ROTTERDAM.

Full details about the current cruise deals onboard Norwegian Getaway and her itinerary can be read in detail here. Will you be sailing on the Norwegian Getaway in 2014?

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Tags: Norwegian Getaway

Review Of Norwegian Cruise's Norwegian Epic – A Lifetime Of Entertainment In One Trip

From This is Grimsby:

Review of the Norwegian Epic

Advertisement Feature

If you’re thinking of booking a cruise holiday this year then make sure you pick Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Cruise lines newest, biggest and most spectacular ship to date. There’s a whole host of fantastic facilities and great European and Caribbean destinations to visit. With dining, entertainment and fantastic facilities all included in the price, you can have the holiday of your dreams without breaking the bank.

Norwegian Epic – A Lifetime of Entertainment in One Trip

One of the many benefits of choosing cruise deals aboard Norwegian Epic is that you can pack so much into your holiday. Not only can you visit a range of fabulous destinations, but you can also experience some of the best entertainment, dining and activities that cruise holidays have to offer on board this palatial ship.

Entertainment highlights include the out of this world Blue Man Group, Cirque dreams and Legends in concert, whilst kids will adore the messy fun of Nickelodeon Slime Time Live.

With more than 20 places to eat you can enjoy a different dining experience every day of the week. Indulge in an Italian feast at the friendly and informal Pizza 24/7, get traditional fare for all the family at O’Sheehan’s Neighbourhood Bar & Grill or sample the finest in French cuisine at Le Bistro.

Enjoy an after dinner drink at one of the many bars on board. Sip elegant cocktails at Shaker’s Martini Bar, enjoy the super cool atmosphere of the SVEDKA Ice Bar or relax with a post-show tipple at the glamorous Epic Theatre Bar.

At the end of each evening you can retire to relax and recuperate in a choice of top notch accommodation including suites, family villas and even a Penthouse complete with balcony. There’s plenty of smart and serviceable accommodation for everyone to enjoy.

On Board Facilities

When you’re not enjoying excursions on one of Norwegian Epic's Caribbean or Mediterranean cruises, you can make the most of on board facilities including a great kids pool complete with three multi-storey water slides, two adult pools for sedate sunbathing, a sports centre, jogging track, casino and even a market place where you can shop till you drop. So whether you want to relax and unwind or fill your vacation with non-stop activity and excitement, you’ll find what you need onboard this incredible ship.

Nickelodeon Asia Launches "InstaSlime" Competition

Nickelodeon Asia has announced on their official Nickelodeon website, Nick-Asia.com, that Nickelodeon Asia has launched a brand new and exclusive Nickelodeon competition called "InstaSlime", where, between Monday 17th September and Sunday 30th September 2012, Nickelodeon Asia is asking viewers in Malaysia and Singapore aged between 6 and 14 to keep a look out on their televisions while they're watching Nickelodeon for slime to pour across the screen. Once they've spotted Nickelodeon's famous green slime oozing across their TV screens, Nickelodeon is asking Nick Heads to grab a camera and take a photograph of themselves in front of their slimy television screens and then head to Nickelodeon Asia's official "InstaSlime" contest webpage at nick-asia.com/instaslime to upload their pictures to enter Nick Asia's special "InstaSlime" to win the chance for their photograph to appear on Nickelodeon, and well as the chance to win the Grand Prize (1st Prize) - a special cruise trip on Nickelodeon At Sea, onboard Star Cruise's Superstar Virgo or Superstar Libra! You can find more information about and enter Nickelodeon Asia's "InstaSlime" competition here on Nick Asia's official "InstaSlime" competition webpage at nick-asia.com/sites/InstaSlime.

Also, below is a online streaming video (with transcript) of Nickelodeon Asia's brand new "How To InstaSlime" 'how to' promo/trailer featuring a step-by-step guide on how to enter Nickelodeon's "InstaSlime" competition:

How To InstaSlime

Step 1: Watch Nickelodeon from September 17th to 30th.

Step 2: Have your camera's handy.

Step 3: When your screen goes green, snap a way!

You can do The Sel-ca, which means take your own pic! [Cheese!]

The Shoot Me.

The Click And Run

Or even The Mirror Mirror on the Wall

Step 4: Send your most creative Slime pics to nick-asia.com/InstaSlime.

Your photo could appear on Nickelodeon! Plus, you could win a cruise trip on Nickelodeon At Sea, onboard Star Cruise's Superstar Virgo or Libra!

Now you know how to InstaSlime, so keep your camera's ready, and you're eyes glued to Nickelodeon!

Also, below is a second online streaming video clip (and transcript) featuring another of Nickelodeon Asia's "InstaSlime" promos/trailers:

[SpongeBob SquarePants: Want to see something cool?

Patrick Star: You bet!]

Here's your chance to get InstaSlime'd!

[Sandy Cheeks: Wow!]

Watch Nickelodeon from September 17th to 30th.

[SpongeBob: I can do that blindfolded!]

Snap a pic of yourself, and the TV, when your screen gets InstaSlime'd.

Then you could get slimed for real on Nickelodeon At Sea, onboard Star Cruise's Super Star Cruise's Superstar Virgo or Libra!

[Dora Marquez to Boots the Monkey: Fantástico !]

Log on to nick-asia.com/InstaSlime to get your slime on!

[Diego Márquez: Yay!]

Brought to you by Nickelodeon!

An Epic Adventure: Nickelodeon Fun, Acrobatic Dinners And Wavy Rooms On A Four-Day Cruise Aboard The Norwegian Epic

From The Daily Mail:

An Epic adventure: Acrobatic dinners, wavy rooms and a frozen bar on a four-day cruise

We always tell children it's rude to play with your food. But when circus performers hang upsidedown while you're eating, chefs juggle knives by your table and waiters only stop bringing you food when you show them a red card, it's hard not to join in the fun.

Dining has always been an important part of any cruise holiday but on Norwegian Epic, food as theatre has been taken to whole new heights.

During Cirque Dream And Dinner, the incredible acrobats performed mind-boggling feats above us and we had to remind ourselves to eat the three courses that had been served in the Spiegeltent big-top restaurant.

With 20 eating establishments on board Norwegian Epic, our four-night mini cruise around the Mediterranean gave me only enough time to get a taste of the options available.

Launched in 2010, the 4,100 passenger Epic dwarfs most other big cruise ships, but despite its hulking size, the ship has a pleasant flow and well-thought-out design inside. Eschewing the glitzier, brash décor that many large ships favour, Epic attracts a young mixed European crowd of couples and families who come for the less stuffy 'freestyle cruising'.

Studio single cabins are a genius idea; these cool inside-facing pods, with mood lights and a communal lounge area, are perfect for solo passengers who don't want to pay a single supplement.

Elsewhere, balcony cabins have a 'wavy' design, with an unusual bathroom arrangement, but use their available space excellently. There are also interconnecting staterooms.

Taking the tots along doesn't mean having to sacrifice on style when it comes to staterooms. Some of the most luxurious suites, such as the Haven two-bedroom balcony villas, are perfect for a family of four.

This luxurious ship-within-a-ship area called the Haven is an exclusive place for Haven villa and suite guests. With its own plush lounge, dining room, pool, spa and gym area, there's no need to venture out into the ship.

It would be a shame not to, though, as there is so much going on. Kids big and small can enjoy a ride on one of the three water slides in the Aqua Park. Teens and adults can indulge in treatments in Mandara, the largest spa at sea. There's also the Posh Beach Club – an adults-only area of day beds.

NCL Epic is a fun place for a holiday with friends and couples, but she is also an ideal place for families to enjoy a quick getaway. Norwegian Cruise Line has a partnership with TV channel Nickelodeon and so children can enjoy a Dora's dance party, breakfast with SpongeBob SquarePants or take part in messy 'splash mobs' with Team Nick.

Epic's free children's clubs have had a makeover with the addition of the Splash Academy for children aged six months to 12 years old and the Entourage programme for 13- to 17-year-olds.

On 2012 Epic sailings there is a 'Little Norwegians Explore for Free' programme of free shore excursions for children. Ports of call often take a back seat to the wow factor of the ship itself, but with stops at Marseilles, Palma, and a day at sea, the four-night cruise to and from Barcelona packs in some Mediterranean highlights.

In Majorca's attractive capital Palma, Epic's berth overshadows even the poshest mega yacht in the marina, and it's a pleasant walk to the old town's cathedral and winding back streets.

On board, there's entertainment throughout the day, but the evening is when the fun and freestyling really begins with the huge range of restaurants to choose from.

Epic is big on Asian food; from the swish Wasabi sushi bar to the Japanesestyle Teppanyaki, where our jubilant chef expertly sliced open a raw egg and showed off his knife skills as he cooked dinner in front of our table.

Moderno Churrascaria is based on Brazil's famous meat meccas. Waiters come around brandishing meat skewers, carving some off for you until you turn over a card on your table to say you've had enough.

Cagney's Steakhouse shares Moderno's mean and moody décor and sophisticated Le Bistro is the place to head for good French food without any circus tricks.

Adult after-dinner entertainment in the 20 bars and lounges is a good mix of comedy in Headliners, DJs in slinky Bliss Ultra Lounge and live music in Fat Cats jazz club – not forgetting the famously offbeat theatre and on-beat percussion of the Blue Man Group in the Epic Theatre, or a drink in -20C temperatures inside the only ice bar at sea.

Epic's 'freestyle' cruising offers plenty of choice for foodie families and even on a four-night trip it's possible to get a taste of how Norwegian Cruise Line has put the Epic into epicurean cruising.

Travel Facts

NCL (0845 201 8900, www.ncl.co.uk) offers seven nights on the Norwegian Epic from £874pp. This includes return flights from Heathrow, transfers, some meals and entertainment and is based on departures on October 6, 2013.

Other operators offering family cruises include Royal Caribbean (0844 493 4005, www.royalcaribbean.co.uk), Carnival Cruise Lines (0845 351 0556, www.carnivalcruise.co.uk), Disney (0800 028 3179, www.disneycruise.co.uk), MSC (0844 561 7412, www.msccruises.co.uk) and Thomson Cruises (0871 230 2800, www.thomson.co.uk/cruise).

"Nickelodeon At Sea" Hits The High Seas In Asia

From Kidscreen:

Nickelodeon hits the high seas in Asia

Viacom International Media Networks Asia and Asia-Pacific cruise line Star Cruises have expanded their partnership to launch the first "Nickelodeon At Sea" cruises in Asia.

Co-sponsored by Mondial Assistance, the cruises are set to run from November 11 to December 30, 2012 on cruise lines SuperStar Virgo (pictured) and SuperStar Libra.

A total of 55 "Nickelodeon At Sea" cruises are planned, featuring popular Nick brands SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego! Go!. Activities include character meet and greets, afternoon tea events, arts and crafts programs, treasure hunts, Nickelodeon-themed rooms and meals, and kids can even get covered in Nick’s famous green slime.

The latest cruises come on the heels Nickelodeon’s successful “SpongeBob at Sea” cruises which launched in 2011.

Tags: Nickelodeon At Sea, Star Cruises, Viacom International Media Networks Asia

Norwegian Cruise Line Launches Limited Time "Kids Sail Free" Sales Event; Ends 7th July 2012

From Breaking Travel News:

Kids cruise free with Norwegian’s limited time sales event

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its popular Kids Sail Free limited time offer giving children (17 and younger), sailing in third and fourth berths, the opportunity to cruise for free when their parents make a new reservation on select fall sailings to Alaska, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada & New England, the Caribbean, Europe or Hawaii by [Saturday] July 7, 2012. In addition, select sailings are also eligible for up to $500 in air credits, Military and AARP discounts.

Families can enjoy the ultimate family vacation this fall to one of Norwegian's exciting cruise destinations. Whether it’s inter-island hopping in Hawaii, with over 100 hours in port, sharing the rich history of Europe on one of Norwegian's many European cruise itineraries, or soaking up the sun in the Caribbean, families can travel with ease knowing they will visit multiple destinations and only have to unpack once. In addition, only Norwegian offers Freestyle Cruising which gives families the flexibility to experience the vacation they've always dreamed of.

Families who embark on a cruise through Hawaii between September 29 and December 15, 2012 will enjoy exploring four spectacular Hawaiian Islands on a seven-day cruise on board Pride of America, sailing round-trip from Honolulu, with fares starting at $1299*, including a scenic sail past the spectacular Na’Pali Coast.

For the ultimate in Europe cruising, Norwegian Jade offers seven-day Greek Isles and Adriatic itineraries from Venice, Italy from September 1 through October 31, 2012, with fares starting at $479* for seven-day Europe cruises. For a longer vacation, families can embark on a Norwegian Spirit 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruise from either Barcelona or Venice from September 7 through October 13, 2012. This incredible itinerary offers the opportunity for parents and their children to experience five different countries. Norwegian Spirit also offers nine-day Canary Islands cruises from Barcelona from November 6 through December 12, 2012.

Guests of all ages will enjoy exclusive Nickelodeon activities and shows as well as the array of on board activities, entertainment and dining options while cruising through Europe on board Norwegian’s newest ship, Norwegian Epic. Families can set sail on seven-day Western Mediterranean itineraries through October 14, 2012 from Barcelona, Spain. Or for those who prefer to sail to sun-drenched destinations, Norwegian Epic will sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning November 3, 2012.


CONTINUES BELOW



Families who are looking to sink their toes into one of Bermuda’s famous pink sand beaches can set sail on a seven-day cruise to King’s Wharf, Bermuda from New York City on board Norwegian Star from September 9 through October 14, 2012 or on board Norwegian Dawn from Boston on either September 7 or September 14, 2012, with fares starting at $449*.

The entire family will enjoy cruising to tropical destinations on a cruise from New York City to the Bahamas & Florida on board Norwegian Jewel between October 14 and September 16, 2012, with fares starting at $449*, or on Norwegian Gem on a nine-day cruise to the Eastern Caribbean between October 20 and December 13, 2012. Families sailing on Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Jewel will also enjoy exclusive Nickelodeon programming.

For a family cruise to the Western Caribbean, guests can sail a seven-day cruise from three different convenient departure ports, starting at $439. Norwegian Pearl sails from Miami between October 21 and November 25, 2012; Norwegian Star from Tampa between October 26 and December 9, 2012; and Norwegian Dawn from New Orleans between November 4 and December 30, 2012.

For a longer Southern Caribbean cruise vacation, families can embark on a 10 or 11-day cruise on board Norwegian Sun from Miami between October 14 and December 16, 2012.

Fall foliage will delight the whole family on one of Norwegian’s Canada & New England Itineraries, with fares starting at $549*. Between September 21 and October 19, 2012, families can sail on a seven-day cruise from Boston on Norwegian Dawn to Quebec or from Quebec to Boston. For a longer Canada & New England experience, Norwegian Gem offers families the chance to cruise for 10-days, round trip from New York City.

Families also have the opportunity to experience Alaska before the Alaska cruise season ends on board Norwegian Pearl or Norwegian Jewel, on a seven-day cruise from Seattle between September 1 and September 16, 2012, starting at $599*.
For a quick family getaway, kids sail free on three and four-day Bahamas cruises on Norwegian Sky from Miami between September 3 and December 28, 2012, with fares starting at $179*.

The line recently enhanced its fleet-wide youth and teen programs, Splash Academy and Entourage. Both Splash Academy and Entourage feature a different theme every day. Whether it’s ocean-related, pirates, space cowboys, jungle fever or circus, every day offers kids a new surprise - tailored to their specific age group - Guppies for ages up to 2; Turtles for ages 3 to 5; Seals for ages 6 to 9; and Dolphins for ages 10 to 12. The enhanced curriculum focuses on team building and assisting in developing children’s interpersonal and confidence-building skills. With activities that are tailored specifically to each age group, the new youth and teen programs focus on creative and unique activities, along with more sporting events, through a partnership with King’s Foundation and Camps. Another highlight of the program is a circus school in partnership with Hilario Productions’ Cirque du Jour, a New York-based company that specializes in teaching children real circus skills. Splash Academy also offers activities for cruisers under three and their parents who can enjoy sensory play classes which include baby art featuring “Wee Can Too” organic art products.


Tags: norwegian cruise line

Norwegian Cruise Line Launches Their 2013-2014 Brochure; Ships To Continue To Carry Nickelodeon Programming On-Board

From Breaking Travel News:

Norwegian Cruise Line launches 2013-2014 brochure

The 'Norwegian Cruise Line 2013-2014 Brochure' launches today and includes worldwide sailings to Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, Bahamas and Florida, Bermuda, Panama Canal, Hawaii and Atlantic crossings.

The 2013/14 season will see the inauguration of brand new ship Norwegian Breakaway which will debut with sailings to Bermuda, Florida & Bahamas as well as to the Southern Caribbean from her year-round homeport New York, whilst Norwegian’s four-ship European deployment is set to return again with two of the ships being deployed year-round in the Mediterranean.

Norwegian Star will debut in Europe to sail Baltics itineraries increasing capacity in the region by 25% and Norwegian Epic will again sail her popular Western Mediterranean itinerary with multiple embarkation in Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Marseille.

To celebrate the brochure launch, agents can offer customers savings of up to £500 per stateroom on bookings made between 18 June and 31 July 2012 on all 2013/14 itineraries of six nights or more.

Francis Riley, vice president and general manager international, Norwegian Cruise Line said: “We know how important it is for agents to encourage forward bookings which is why we have created this launch offer.

"Together with a huge selection of sailings to Europe and longer haul destinations, our ongoing Nickelodeon programming and top-class entertainment and dining options, we want to provide agents with all they need to generate sales and get summer off to a great start."

Agents can download marketing and promotional materials at www.ncl.co.uk/agents.

Itineraries included in the 2013 / 2014 brochure include:

Nine-night Baltic Capitals from Copenhagen fly-cruise on board Norwegian Star. Departing various dates between May and September 2013. Travelling: Fly UK / Copenhagen, Denmark – Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany – day at sea – Tallinn, Estonia – St Petersburg, Russia (overnight) – Helsinki, Finland – Stockholm, Sweden – day at sea – Copenhagen, Denmark / Fly UK. Priced from £1139pp based on a 7 May 2013 departure.

Seven-night Western Mediterranean fly-cruise on board Norwegian Epic. Departing various dates between May and October 2013. Travelling: Fly UK / Barcelona, Spain – day at sea – Naples (Pompeii), Italy – Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – Livorno (Florence / Pisa), Italy –– Marseille (Provence), France – Palma, Spain - Barcelona, Spain / Fly UK. Priced from £854pp based on a 6 October 2013 departure.

Seven-night Greek Isles from Venice fly-cruise on board Norwegian Jade. Departing various dates between May and October 2013. Travelling: Fly UK / Venice – day at sea – Corfu, Greece – Santorini, Greece – Mykonos, Greece – Katakalon (Olympia), Greece – day at sea – Venice, Italy / Fly UK. Priced from £849pp based on a 4 May 2013 departure

12-night Grand Mediterranean from Barcelona fly-cruise on board Norwegian Spirit. Departing various dates between April and October 2013. Travelling Fly UK / Barcelona, Spain – Toulon (Provence), France – Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy – Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – Naples, Italy – day at sea – Mykonos, Greece – Istanbul, Turkey – Izmir (Ephesus), Turkey – Piraeus (Athens), Greece – Venice, Italy (overnight) / Fly UK. Itinerary also operates in reverse order from Venice to Barcelona on selected dates. Priced from £1161pp based on a 17 April 2013 departure.

Nine-night Bermuda from New York fly-cruise on board Norwegian Breakaway. Departing various dates between May and October 2013. Travelling: Fly UK / New York, USA – two days at sea – King’s Wharf, Bermuda (three days to enjoy the island) – day at sea – New York, USA / Fly UK. Priced from 7 September 2013 based on a £1710pp departure.

Tags: norwegian cruise line