Doug Parker – Cruise Radio https://cruiseradio.net Cruise News | Cruise Reviews | Cruise Videos | Cruise Deals Tue, 23 Jul 2024 16:46:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://cruiseradio.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/favicon.png Doug Parker – Cruise Radio https://cruiseradio.net 32 32 Carnival Orders Three 8,000 Guest Cruise Ships, New Class https://cruiseradio.net/carnival-cruise-line-new-cruise-ship-order-2024/ Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:40:42 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168362 Carnival Corporation (CCL) has announced a significant fleet expansion with an order for three mega cruise ships for its Carnival Cruise Line brand.

A large cruise ship, the Carnival Jubilee, is docked at a bustling port.
(Photo courtesy of Cruise Radio)

These ships, each nearly 230,000 gross registered tons, will be designed and constructed by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and are scheduled for delivery in the summers of 2029, 2031, and 2033.

This order is part of Carnival Cruise Line’s broader expansion strategy. Earlier this year, Carnival Corporation placed its first new-build orders in five years for two additional Excel-class ships, which will join the fleet in 2027 and 2028.

Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said, “For this next generation ship, we are focused on creating innovative guest experiences that will take Carnival Cruise Line into the future with new FUN features and excitement that we know our guests will LOVE.”

This is in addition to the previously announced message that Carnival is transferring five vessels from its sister brands to Carnival Cruise Line between 2023 (Costa Cruises) and March 2025 (P&O Cruises Australia) to increase guest capacity.

PO Cruises Pacific Encounter
(P&O CRUISES)

Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc, emphasized the importance of Carnival Cruise Line to the company’s growth strategy. “We are doubling down on the growth of Carnival Cruise Line – our highest-returning brand – to keep up with the incredibly strong demand we continue to see for the world’s most popular cruise line,” said Weinstein.

A large cruise ship, the Carnival Jubilee, docked at a VIP dock.
(Photo courtesy of Cruise Radio)

Details on New Carnival Cruise Ships

The new ships, featuring over 3,000 guest staterooms and a total capacity of nearly 8,000 guests, will be the largest in Carnival Corporation’s fleet.

For reference, the largest cruise ship in the world is the Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, with 250,000 gross registered tons. The Oasis-class, with 225,000 gross registered tons each, is in second place.

The vessels will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and equipped with advanced energy efficiency, waste management, and emission reduction technologies. Design details and itineraries for the new ships will be announced in the future.

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First Time Cruise to Europe + Cruise News [Podcast] https://cruiseradio.net/first-time-cruise-to-europe-cruise-news-podcast/ Sun, 21 Jul 2024 12:25:03 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168294

Doug Parker and Richard Simms discuss recent cruise news and updates. Topics include the controversy over cruise ducks, Princess Cruise’s new pizza promotion, exclusive shore excursions for MSC Yacht Club guests, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s return to Philadelphia.

They also discussed Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, offering shorter sailings, and Carnival’s Mardi Gras ship’s 14-night transatlantic voyage.

This episode is brought to you by TripInsurance.com, giving you three levels of travel protection — Good, Better, and Best — a travel insurance policy for every budget.

Tim from YouTube’s CruiseTogetherCouple recently embarked on a Mediterranean cruise aboard the MSC World Europa.

In his coverage, he detailed the ship’s amenities, explored the various ports of call, and shared practical tips for first-time European cruisers. The episode concluded with a guest discussing the potential success of a new ship.

msc world europa genoa italy
MSC World Europa in Genoa, Italy (Photo courtesy of MSC Cruises)
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or where you listen to your favorite podcast.

Timestamps:

  • Cruise Ducks Controversy (00:00:42): Discuss the ongoing controversy surrounding cruise ducks and crew members’ involvement in the popular activity.
  • Princess Cruise’s Pizza Promotion (00:03:05): Explanation of Princess Cruise’s world record-breaking pizza party and partnership with a renowned pizza chef.
  • New Perks for Expensive Suite Guests (00:04:59): Information about MSC offering exclusive shore excursions for guests staying in the yacht club, creating a ship within the ship concept.
  • Norwegian Jewel’s Philadelphia Sailings (00:06:43): Details about Norwegian Cruise Line’s plans to sail the Norwegian Jewel from Philadelphia starting in 2026.
  • Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas (00:08:50): Coverage of the launch party for Royal Caribbean’s new ship, Utopia of the Seas, and its unique fan contest.
  • Carnival’s Long Transatlantic Sailings (00:13:43): Exciting news about Carnival’s Mardi Gras ship offering one-off longer sailings, including a 14-night transatlantic voyage.
  • Carnival Panorama’s Journey to Asia (00:16:28): Discussion on Carnival Panorama’s voyage from LA to a shipyard in Asia and the unique experience of friends taking it over.
  • Cruise Ship Panorama’s Underwhelming Debut (00:17:01): The lack of hype surrounding Carnival Panorama’s launch and comparison with other new ships.
  • First-Time European Cruise Experience (00:19:20): Tim’s decision to take a Mediterranean cruise on MSC World Europa and his pre-cruise thoughts.
  • Affordable European Cruise (00:19:59): The affordability of the European cruise and the decision-making process behind choosing the off-season for the trip.
  • Embarkation in Barcelona (00:22:01): The smooth embarkation process at the Barcelona cruise terminal for MSC World Europa.
  • First Impressions of MSC World Europa (00:22:22): The beauty and elegance of the ship, including its features and design.
  • Dining Experience and Upgrades (00:22:59): The dining options, cabin upgrades, and the experience of dining on board MSC World Europa.
  • Entertainment and Activities on Board (00:28:01): The variety of entertainment, including production shows, music, and activities such as trivia and sports complex.
  • Bumper Cars and Sports Complex (00:31:11): Bumper cars and other activities in the sports complex on board MSC World Europa.
  • Pool and Layout (00:31:58): Discussion about the pool and layout of the cruise ship, including indoor and outdoor pool areas and crowd congestion.
  • Ports of Call (00:34:09): Description of the ports visited, including Barcelona, Marseilles, Genoa, Rome, Palermo, Louvre, and the experiences at each location.
  • Barcelona and Rome (00:38:09): Insights into the experiences and crowds in Barcelona and Rome, including navigating the cities and personal experiences.
  • Favorite Port (00:40:32): Discussion about the favorite port of call, with a focus on the beauty of Malta and the historical significance of Rome.
  • Debark Process and Ship Staff (00:41:30): Experience during the debarkation process and praise for the ship staff’s efficiency and helpfulness.
  • First-Time Tips and Resources (00:43:30): Advice for first-time cruisers to Europe and on MSC, including using travel agents and navigating the booking process.
  • Cruise Highlights (00:46:55): Reflection on the overall experience of cruising in Europe and the highlights of visiting iconic locations.
  • Final Thoughts on MSC Europa (00:47:55): Concluding thoughts on the MSC Europa cruise experience and the affordability of off-season travel.
  • Mention of New Ship (00:47:59): Discuss the potential success of the new ship coming to America and the differences in cruise experiences between Europe and America.
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Princess Cruises Hosts Giant Pizza Party with Over 60,000 Slices Eaten, Sets New Guinness World Record https://cruiseradio.net/princess-cruises-hosts-giant-pizza-party-with-over-60000-slices-eaten-sets-new-guinness-world-record/ Mon, 15 Jul 2024 10:52:37 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168271 Princess Cruises just hosted the largest-ever Pizza Party. It took place across venues on multiple ships in the Princess fleet and marked the Princess’ partnership with celebrated pizza chef Tony Gemignani.

More than 60,000 Pizza Slices Eaten

A group of four people posing indoors, with one holding a Guinness World Records certificate. Others wear t-shirts with "I love this pizza" printed on them, smiling for the photo. The scene captures the joy of attending a Giant Pizza Party hosted by Princess Cruises.
(Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises)

Chef Tony is noted as one of the greatest pizza makers and has been awarded World Pizza Champion 13 times. Establishing a new Guinness World Record, guests at the Princess Pizza Party consumed more than 60,000 oven-fresh pizza slices.

Additionally, Chef Gemignani created two pizza varieties exclusively for Princess guests. They feature Soppressata sausage, hot honey, agave pesto, and fresh goat cheese. Callie Smith, an Adjudicator from Guinness World Records, was in attendance and confirmed the record.

Chef Gemignani’s pizza recipes will debut at Alfredo’s onboard the new Sun Princess and be rolled out across the fleet this summer. Chef Gemignani personally trained Princess chefs at his Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco and onboard Princess ships. 

A large group of people, many in costume, pose together on a stage at the Giant Pizza Party. A person at the center holds up a framed certificate for the Guinness World Record, while another person next to them gives a thumbs up to the camera.
(Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises)

All five pizza varieties will be prepared at sea to replicate Chef’s hand-crafted pizzas.

He is the most decorated pizza chef in American history, a restaurateur, master instructor, philanthropist, and author of ‘PIZZA”, The Pizza Bible, and ‘The Pursuit of Pizza.’ He hails from Northern California, opening his first restaurant in San Francisco 15 years ago.

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana has been named the best pizzeria by USA Today and the top pizza restaurant by the Travel Channel.

“Tony is the ‘GOAT’ with unparalleled world championships and passion for crafting the perfect pizza,” said Princess Cruises‘ President John Padgett.

Chef Gemignani, a Multiple World Record Holder

A chef, aiming for a Guinness World Record, expertly tosses pizza dough in the kitchen with a pizza oven in the background. He is sporting a white and red chef's coat, preparing for Princess Cruises' giant pizza party.
Chef Tony Gemignani (Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises)
“Princess is about delivering great experiences and there is no more important element than Pizza. We decided to take it up an entirely new level with legendary Tony Gemignani and set a Guinness World Records title,” said John Padgett, Princess President. 

Chef Gemignani was part of the previous record for “World’s Largest Pizza Party” set in 2023, and is now a four-time Guinness World Record holder. 

The World’s Largest Pizza Party used 6,512 pounds of dough, 1,393 pounds of pepperoni, and 2,323 pounds of cheese.

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Norwegian Jewel Alaska Review 2024 [Podcast] https://cruiseradio.net/norwegian-jewel-alaska-review-2024-podcast/ Mon, 15 Jul 2024 10:50:48 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168284

In this podcast episode, Amy discusses her seven-night Alaska cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jewel. She shares her pre-cruise experiences in Vancouver, the smooth embarkation process, and her impressions of the stateroom.

Amy talks about the dining options, entertainment, and her participation in the “Newlywed Show.” She describes the ports of call, including Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, and highlights her Glacier Bay experience.

Amy also provides tips on packing, saving money, and making the most of the cruise. She concludes with her overall positive impressions of the Norwegian Jewel and the Alaska itinerary.

This episode is brought to you by TripInsurance.com, giving you three levels of travel protection — Good, Better, and Best — a travel insurance policy for every budget.
norwegian jewel
(Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or where you listen to your favorite podcast.

Timestamps:

  • The pre-cruise thoughts (00:00:29): Amy’s decision to cruise to Alaska, her travel history, and the factors influencing her choice.
  • Travel to Vancouver (00:01:20): Amy’s travel from Nashville to Vancouver, including flight experiences and a hotel stay in Vancouver.
  • Embarkation (00:03:59): The embarkation process in Vancouver, including customs clearance and boarding the ship.
  • Stateroom (00:06:47): Amy’s choice of an inside stateroom, the stateroom’s features, and her experience during the cruise.
  • Dining (00:09:03): Discussion of the buffet and main dining room experiences, including the flexibility of freestyle dining.
  • Entertainment (00:13:53): Overview of the entertainment options on the seven-night cruise, including shows, movies, and comedy performances.
  • The Newlywed Game (00:14:36): Amy shares her experience of participating in the ship’s version of the Newlywed Game, including the embarrassment and fun.
  • Cruise Ship Crowds (00:16:27): Discussion of the lack of crowds on the ship and her experiences during sea days, including the availability of entertainment venues.
  • Casino Experience (00:17:46): Amy shares her casino experience, including the heat and the level of smoke in the casino.
  • Port of Call: Ketchikan (00:19:02): The docking situation in Ketchikan and her excursion to a rainforest wildlife sanctuary and totem park.
  • Port of Call: Juneau (00:22:06): Amy talks about her bike and brewery tour in Juneau, the visit to Mendenhall Glacier, and the tram ride.
  • Port of Call: Skagway (00:24:13): Discussion about the summit scenic drive, brewery visits, and the unique Alaskan liquor laws.
  • Glacier Bay Viewing (00:27:59): Amy shares her experience of viewing Glacier Bay from different spots on the ship and the crowded crew pool area.
  • The balcony dilemma (00:29:01): Discussion of her wish for a balcony stateroom and the price difference.
  • Navigating the Gulf of Alaska (00:29:42): Amy talks about the navigation through the Gulf of Alaska and the experience at sea.
  • Disembarkation logistics (00:30:27): Amy shares her experience with disembarkation, transportation options, and excursion choices.
  • Alaska Tour Saver benefits (00:32:45): Discussion of the benefits of using the Alaska Tour Saver book for discounts on tours and transportation.
  • Cruise ship amenities and packing tips (00:34:37): Amy talks about the amenities on the Norwegian Jewel and gives tips on packing for an Alaska cruise.
  • Flight arrangements and tips (00:37:03): Amy shares her experience with flight arrangements and provides tips for finding good deals on flights.
  • Cruise highlights and final thoughts (00:38:17): Amy reflects on the highlights of the cruise and shares her final thoughts on the Norwegian Jewel.
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Carnival Magic 2024 Western Caribbean Review [Podcast] https://cruiseradio.net/carnival-magic-2024-western-caribbean-review-podcast/ Sun, 14 Jul 2024 09:34:29 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168147

In this podcast episode, guest Ross shares his experiences from a seven-night cruise aboard Carnival Magic out of Port Miami. He discusses pre-cruise preparations, smooth embarkation, and staying in a Cloud 9 Spa interior stateroom.

Ross highlights the variety of food options, enjoyable entertainment, and port excursions in Cozumel, Belize City, and Mahogany Bay. Despite rough seas and crowded areas, he praises the efficient debarkation process and exceptional service.

Ross expresses willingness to sail with Carnival again and considers trying other cruise lines.

This episode is brought to you by TripInsurance.com, giving you three levels of travel protection — Good, Better, and Best — a travel insurance policy for every budget.
Front view of Carnival Magic in Norfolk, Virginia
Front view of Carnival Magic in Norfolk, Virginia (Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or where you listen to your favorite podcast.

Timestamps:

  • Pre-cruise thoughts and planning (00:00:32): Ross’s reasons for choosing the cruise, including itinerary, timing, and previous cruise experiences.
  • Embarkation process (00:03:02): Description of the embarkation process, including check-in time, waiting area, and boarding pass requirements.
  • First impressions of the Carnival Magic (00:04:11): Initial thoughts upon entering the ship, including comments on the ship’s design and cleanliness.
  • Stateroom experience (00:05:06): Details about the Cloud 9 Spa interior stateroom, amenities, and noise levels.
  • Food options on board (00:08:42): Overview of the Lido Deck buffet, including the selection, seating, and comparison to other cruise lines’ food options.
  • Guy’s Burger Joint and Blue Iguana (00:10:17): Review of the popular dining venues, including the quality of burgers and fish tacos.
  • Pizza and main dining room experience (00:11:14): Assessment of the ship’s pizza, as well as the My Time Dining experience and food quality in the main dining room.
  • Dining Room Entertainment (00:14:44): Discussion about the rotating entertainment in the dining room and the quality of the comedy shows.
  • Comedy and Trivia (00:15:13): Review of the comedy shows, love and marriage game, and trivia activities on the cruise.
  • Casino and Sea Days (00:19:24): Evaluation of the smoking situation in the casino and the crowd congestion during sea days.
  • Ports of Call (00:21:20): Highlights of the ports of call, including Cozumel, Bliss City, and Mahogany Bay, and the excursions taken at each location.
  • Rough Weather (00:26:53): Experience of rough seas during the return to Miami and the impact on the passenger’s comfort.
  • Facial Recognition at Port (00:28:25): Discussion about the efficiency and experience of using facial recognition technology at the cruise port.
  • Importance of Dark Plans (00:28:51): Explanation of the significance of providing dark plans for shoreside scheduling and port operations.
  • Uber Pickup Experience (00:29:29): Experience using Uber at a busy cruise port and tips for smooth pickup.
  • Tips for Uber Pickup (00:30:02): Advice on providing bag information for Uber drivers to facilitate pickup and save time.
  • Trying New Experiences on Cruise (00:31:02): Encouragement to explore new activities, food, and entertainment options while on a cruise.
  • Spa Room Experience (00:32:55): Detailed experience and benefits of booking a spa room on the cruise ship.
  • Comparison of Cruise Lines (00:34:08): Comparison of cruise experiences and considerations for future cruise line choices.
  • Final Thoughts on Carnival Magic (00:36:16): Ross’s overall positive experience and appreciation for the staff on the Carnival Magic cruise.
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Disney Magic 2024 Review + Cruise News [Podcast] https://cruiseradio.net/disney-magic-2024-review-cruise-news-podcast/ Sun, 07 Jul 2024 06:03:03 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168198

Doug Parker and staff writer Richard Simms discuss recent cruise news, including a viral fight on a Carnival ship, rising cruise prices due to new California laws, and capacity boosts in the Mediterranean amid over-tourism concerns.

Caleb shares his experience aboard Disney Magic, highlighting efficient embarkation, dining options, and exceptional service. He compares Disney to Virgin Voyages, noting differences in inclusivity and service. Caleb offers tips for first-time Disney cruisers and confirms his next Disney cruise on the Dream.

This episode is brought to you by TripInsurance.com, giving you three levels of travel protection — Good, Better, and Best — a travel insurance policy for every budget.
All aboard a large cruise ship sailing through a scenic waterway with a city skyline in the background. Passengers on board another Disney vessel watch and take photos, capturing the magical moment.
(Photo courtesy of Cruise Radio)
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or where you listen to your favorite podcast.

Timestamps:

  • The Carnival Fight (00:00:10): Discussion about a violent fight on a Carnival ship, the viral video, and the potential consequences for those involved.
  • Cruise Prices and Transparency (00:02:15): Explaining the increase in cruise prices, the impact of a new law requiring transparency in pricing, and the inclusion of additional costs in the advertised prices.
  • Mediterranean Cruises and Overtourism (00:05:22): Discussed the plans to increase cruise capacity in the Mediterranean, potential conflicts with overtourism regulations in Greek destinations, and the impact on cruise itineraries.
  • Amsterdam’s Cruise Ship Cap (00:07:40): Talked about the decision to cap cruise ships in Amsterdam, the requirement to use shore power, and the potential relocation of the terminal.
  • Villa Vie Odyssey Update (00:08:49): An update on the delayed sailing of the Villa Vie Odyssey, technical problems, and concerns about shortcuts in the recertification process.
  • Discussion about Disney Magic Cruise (00:16:30): A conversation with Caleb who just sailed on the Disney Magic, sharing pre-cruise thoughts and the decision to take the sailing out of Port Everglades.
  • Embarkation Process (00:17:15): Efficiency and experience at the cruise terminal, including upgrades and boarding times.
  • Impressions of Disney Magic (00:18:53): Caleb’s overall impression and experience boarding the Disney Magic cruise ship.
  • Dining Experience (00:20:11): Discussion of dining options, including the buffet, rotational dining, and room service.
  • Entertainment and Adult Areas (00:24:10): Review of onboard entertainment, including shows and the adults-only area.
  • Kids Programs and Crowds (00:25:56): Experience with kids programs and observations of crowd congestion on the ship.
  • Port Excursions (00:27:44): Details about the day at Castaway Cay and Cozumel, including activities and locations at the ports.
  • Virgin Voyages Cruise (00:30:44): Comparison to Disney cruise, including service, food, and similarities to Disney.
  • Status Matching with Virgin (00:32:28): Discussion about status matching with Virgin and benefits.
  • Disembarkation from Disney Magic (00:33:18): Process of disembarking from Disney Magic and luggage handling.
  • Booking Tips for Disney Cruise (00:34:04): Tips for booking onboard experiences and excursions for a Disney cruise.
  • Disney Cruise Experience (00:35:28): Discussion about the experience of a Disney cruise for couples and adults.
  • Service Highlight on Disney Magic (00:36:22): Highlighting the exceptional service of Disney Magic and an example of going above and beyond.
  • Future Disney Cruise and Final Thoughts (00:37:04): Booking the next Disney cruise and final thoughts on Disney Magic.
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Carnival Pride Bahamas Review [Podcast] https://cruiseradio.net/carnival-pride-bahamas-review-podcast/ Thu, 04 Jul 2024 09:48:55 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168254

In this podcast episode, Christy, a teacher from New York City, reviews her seven-night cruise on Carnival Pride to the Bahamas and Grand Turk. She discusses the change in departure port from Baltimore to Norfolk, the embarkation process, accommodations, dining options, entertainment, and activities on board.

Christy shares her experiences at Grand Turk, Princess Cays, and Freeport, highlighting swimming, a tender boat malfunction, and casino winnings. She praises the ship’s cozy atmosphere and efficient staff and provides a comprehensive review of the cruise experience.

This episode is brought to you by TripInsurance.com, giving you three levels of travel protection — Good, Better, and Best — a travel insurance policy for every budget.
A large cruise ship, the Carnival Pride, with multiple decks sails on the ocean under a partially cloudy sky, en route to the Bahamas.
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or where you listen to your favorite podcast.

Timestamps:

  • Embarkation and Departure Change (00:00:17): Discussion about the change in departure port from Baltimore to Norfolk due to weather conditions.
  • Accommodation and Transfer (00:01:28): Details about the decision to transfer from Baltimore to Norfolk and the smooth bus transfer experience.
  • Check-in Process (00:03:07): Explanation of the check-in process in Norfolk and comparison with the initial check-in in Baltimore.
  • First Impressions of Carnival Pride (00:03:31): Initial thoughts and comparison with Carnival Legend.
  • Casino Offers State Room (00:04:24): Description of the interior and balcony staterooms and their suitability.
  • Dining Experience (00:05:10): Assessment of the food at the buffet, including the embarkation day funfetti cheesecake, and late-night pizza.
  • Steakhouse Experience (00:06:58): Discussion of the steakhouse experience, including a comparison of the ribeye and cowboy steaks.
  • Main Dining Room Meals and Service (00:09:03): Evaluation of the meals and service in the main dining room, with a focus on beef wellington and prime rib.
  • Entertainment and Activities (00:11:03): Review of playlist production shows, live music, and hosted events, including the cruise director’s performance.
  • Crowds and Congestion (00:14:34): Observations on pool and serenity area crowding, as well as participation in trivia and arts and crafts activities.
  • Retractable Roof and Sea Days (00:16:05): Discussion about the status of the retractable roof and the availability of activities during sea days.
  • Grand Turk (00:16:39): Christy’s experience at Grand Turk, including the excursion, the beach, and the rough water conditions.
  • Princess Quay (00:18:35): Christy’s visit to Princess Cay, her time spent swimming, and the comical experience with the tender boat.
  • Casino Experience (00:21:08): Discussion about the casino, the non-smoking side, and Christy’s luck with slot machines.
  • Freeport (00:23:20): Christy’s day at Freeport, her decision not to leave the port, and her thoughts on the limited activities available.
  • Return to Norfolk (00:24:25): Experience with the ship’s rocking, disembarkation process, and the smooth return to Norfolk.
  • First Time Tips (00:27:22): Advice for first-time cruisers, emphasizing the need to adapt to unexpected hiccups.
  • Biggest Highlight (00:28:10): Christy’s reflection on the quality time with her family, winning at the casino, and the enjoyable time at Grand Turk.
  • Carnival Pride Review (00:29:01): Christy’s overall positive review of the Carnival Pride, including its cozy feeling, space-to-person ratio, and comparison to other ships.
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Liberty of the Seas Review + Cruise News [Podcast] https://cruiseradio.net/liberty-of-the-seas-review-cruise-news-podcast/ Thu, 27 Jun 2024 14:36:16 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168068

Doug Parker and Richard Simms discuss cruise industry updates, including a minor fire on the world’s largest cruise ship, Carnival Corporation’s financial success of $92M profit, heat warnings for Greece, and Seattle’s 2027 shore power mandate, and Princess Cruises’ loyalty points promotion.

Kurt shares his experience on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas, detailing the ship’s layout, dining options, entertainment, and ports of call like Bermuda, Saint Martin, San Juan, and Puerto Plata. Kurt’s feedback highlights positive aspects and areas for improvement on the cruise.

This episode is brought to you by TripInsurance.com, giving you three levels of travel protection — Good, Better, and Best — a travel insurance policy for every budget.
Aerial view of Liberty of the Seas
Aerial view of Liberty of the Seas (Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or where you listen to your favorite podcast.

Timestamps:

  • The fire on the Icon of the Seas (00:00:36): Discuss a small fire on the Icon of the Seas cruise ship, the response, and the impact on passengers.
  • Carnival Corporation’s financial report (00:02:26): Overview of Carnival Corporation’s latest quarterly report and financial performance, including high occupancy and onboard spending.
  • Extreme heat warnings in Greece (00:06:24): Cruise passengers in Greece received warnings due to record-breaking temperatures and resulting fatalities.
  • Port of Seattle’s shore power mandate (00:07:59): Mandate for cruise ships to switch to shore power by 2027 at the Port of Seattle, and its environmental significance.
  • Princess Cruise Line’s loyalty points offer (00:09:29): Details of Princess Cruise Line’s limited-time offer to double loyalty points for certain cruise packages, with additional points for booking a suite.
  • Review of Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas (00:14:17): A guest’s experience on a nine-night Caribbean voyage on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas, including embarkation and first impressions.
  • The layout of the ship (00:16:52): Comparison of ship layout and expectations, minor differences noted.
  • Promenade and stateroom (00:17:25): Comparison of promenade offerings and stateroom experience, including unexpected changes.
  • Dining experiences (00:20:52): Review of food quality and variety in Windjammer and the main dining room.
  • Entertainment on board (00:24:13): An overview of production shows, an aerialist group, a hypnotist, and an Elton John tribute act.
  • Ports of call (00:28:28): Discuss activities and experiences in Bermuda, including shopping and exploring.
  • Saint Martin port (00:30:54): Description of activities in Saint Martin, including visiting a duty-free shop and enjoying the seaside.
  • San Juan port (00:32:22): Exploration of the local bakery, Isla Verde Beach, and the old town area of San Juan.
  • Porta Plata port (00:34:21): Overview of the day in the Dominican Republic, including visiting a grocery store and the old town area.
  • The developed port areas (00:34:29): Discussion about the developed port area, the free pool, and the lazy river as a replacement for the original port due to troubles in Haiti.
  • Debacle at disembarkation (00:35:08): Description of the slow disembarkation process and the unusual delay due to a gangway issue.
  • Tips for sailing and room issues (00:36:19): Advice on checking the room thoroughly and dealing with room maintenance issues, along with a tip for getting a specialty lunch instead of fighting through the buffet.
  • Final thoughts on Liberty of the Seas (00:37:50): Overall impressions of the ship, comparison to other vessels, and unique features such as the big slide.
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Viking Cruise Ships By Size: Smallest to Largest https://cruiseradio.net/viking-cruise-ships-by-size-smallest-to-largest/ Wed, 26 Jun 2024 07:00:46 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168028 The name Viking Cruises is associated with river cruising, but it has also gained popularity in ocean cruising over the last decade.

A four-image collage showcases the impressive size of the Viking Star, a large white vessel from Viking Cruise Ships, as it gracefully sails through scenic locations, including ports, fjords, and icy waters.
(Photo courtesy of Cruise Radio and Viking Cruises)

Initially, for their value river cruises, Viking has steadily expanded its fleet of ocean-going ships, maintaining the same high standards of service and sophistication.

Unlike other cruise lines that rapidly expand their fleets, Viking has taken a more measured approach, focusing on quality over quantity. This strategy has allowed Viking to offer a unique and consistent experience across its ocean-going ships.

Ship NameShip ClassYear LaunchedGross Registered Tonnage (GT)Passenger CountLength
Viking StarStar201547,842930748 feet
Viking SeaStar201647,842930748 feet
Viking SkyStar201747,842930748 feet
Viking SunStar201747,842930748 feet
Viking OrionStar201847,842930748 feet
Viking JupiterStar201947,842930748 feet
Viking VenusStar202147,842930748 feet
Viking MarsStar202247,842930748 feet
Viking NeptuneStar202247,842930748 feet
Viking SaturnStar202347,842930748 feet
Viking VellaStarDec 202454,300998784 feet
Ship NameShip ClassYear LaunchedGross Registered Tonnage (GT)Passenger CountLength
Viking OctantisViking Expedition202230,150646672 feet
Viking PolarisViking Expedition202230,150646672 feet

What makes Viking Cruise Ships Different?

A large white Viking cruise ship sails on calm waters, with green hills and a cloudy sky in the background, showcasing the impressive size of these vessels from smallest to largest.
(Photo courtesy of Cruise Radio)

Viking cruise ships stand out because they focus on giving passengers intimate experiences. Unlike many big cruise ships, Viking ships are smaller, carrying only about 930 guests, so they never feel too crowded. The ships are designed with many open spaces, stylish interiors, and plenty of relaxing places.

Viking also offers exciting shore excursions that let passengers explore and learn about the places they visit. Plus, there are no kids’ activities or casinos, so the atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, perfect for adults who want a relaxing and enriching cruise experience.

New Viking Ships on Order

Project NameExpected Delivery
Ocean Newbuild XIIJuly 2025
Ocean Newbuild XIIIMay 2026
Ocean Newbuild XIVMay 2027
Ocean Newbuild XVMay 2028
Ocean Newbuild XVINovember 2028
Ocean Newbuild XVIIMay 2029
Ocean Newbuild XVIIINovember 2029
Ocean Newbuild XIXMay 2030
Ocean Newbuild XXNovember 2030

Where Do Viking Ocean Cruise Ships Sail?

A large Viking Cruise Ship, the Viking Sea, docked at a port with a clear blue sky and hilly landscape in the background, showcasing its impressive size among the fleet.
(Photo courtesy of Cruise Radio)

Viking cruises all over the globe. Passengers can explore Norway’s stunning fjords, soak up the sun in the Mediterranean, or discover the rich history of the Baltic Sea and the Caribbean. In the summer months, Viking also offers cruises to Southeast Alaska.

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Bermuda Cruise from New York City [Podcast] https://cruiseradio.net/bermuda-cruise-from-new-york-city-podcast/ Sun, 23 Jun 2024 09:04:44 +0000 https://cruiseradio.net/?p=168069

In this podcast episode, Doug Parker and guest Tommy Casabona discuss Tommy’s recent cruise on the Norwegian Joy. Tommy describes the smooth embarkation process from Pier 88 in New York City and his upgrade to a balcony stateroom.

He shares his positive experiences with the ship’s food options, entertainment, and casino. Despite some turbulence and a shortened stay in Bermuda, Tommy enjoyed exploring Horseshoe Bay Beach.

The episode also touches on the unique vibe of New York City sailings and the chaotic disembarkation process in the city.

This episode is brought to you by TripInsurance.com, giving you three levels of travel protection — Good, Better, and Best — a travel insurance policy for every budget.
Norwegian Joy at Panama Canal
Norwegian Joy (Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or where you listen to your favorite podcast.

Timestamps:

  • The introduction (00:00:00): Introduction to the podcast episode and advertisement for Noom personalized weight loss solution.
  • Cruise Radio (00:01:11): Introduction to the cruise radio show and a brief advertisement for trip insurance.
  • Interview with Tommy Casabona (00:02:07): Doug Parker introduces Tommy Casabona and discusses his recent cruise experience on the Norwegian Joy.
  • Embarkation in New York City (00:02:30): Discussion about the embarkation process at Pier 88 in New York City and the experience of sailing away from New York.
  • First Impressions of Norwegian Joy (00:05:02): Tommy’s first impressions of the Norwegian Joy, comparing it to other ships in the same class and discussing differences in design.
  • Stateroom and Balcony Experience (00:07:00): Tommy’s experience with the stateroom, including an upgrade to a balcony stateroom, and opinions on the balcony space.
  • Onboard Dining Experience (00:09:02): Discussion about the buffet, main dining room, and specialty dining experiences on board the Norwegian Joy.
  • Entertainment and Shows (00:13:50): Opinions on the entertainment and shows on board, including a specific show called “Elements” and the variety of entertainment venues.
  • Casino Experience (00:15:46): Tommy’s experience in the casino, including his winnings and a discussion about how points are earned in the casino.
  • Smoking Situation in the Casino (00:18:05): Brief discussion about smoking in and around the casino on board the ship.
  • The casino and ship layout (00:18:28): Discussion about smoking areas, the ship’s congestion, and the compartmentalized layout.
  • Vibe Beach Club and thermal suites (00:19:42): Conversation about the Vibe Beach Club, the ship’s thermal suites, and the impact of weather on cruise plans.
  • Exploring Bermuda (00:22:53): Experiences at Horseshoe Bay Beach, beach exploration, and observations about Bermuda’s cruising subculture.
  • High seas and beach activities (00:24:48): Discussion about high seas, beach activities, and the color of Bermuda’s water.
  • Local attractions and departure process (00:25:48): Conversation about local attractions, including a pirate ship and a prison, and experiences at the Manhattan cruise terminal during the departure process.
  • Onboard activities and dining experiences (00:28:27): Onboard activities, including go-karting and dining experiences at the American Diner.
  • Departure and travel tips (00:30:15) Discussion about the departure process, experiences with customs, and travel tips for sailing out of Manhattan.
  • Ship’s layout, amenities, and comparison (00:34:13): Observations about the ship’s layout, amenities, and a comparison of the cruise experience with other cruise lines.
  • Norwegian Gem (00:35:51) Discussion about the excitement around the Norwegian Gem coming to Jacksonville and the experience of being on the ship.
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