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Friday 27 September 2019

MSC Grandiosa boasts latest environmental features

MSC Grandiosa departs Genoa

The incoming new ship – featuring a state-of-the-art Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and next-generation Advanced Wastewater Treatment (AWT) systems - will be one of the most environmentally-sound ships at sea and an energy-efficient role model for modern cruising

MSC Cruises’ newest and most innovative ship to-date is due to enter service on 31 October and will see the line introduce two new major and important onboard environmental advances to complement a wide range of existing leading-edge environmental technologies across the company’s entire fleet: a state-of-the-art Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and next-generation Advanced Wastewater Treatment (AWT) system.


MSC Grandiosa, which will be christened in Hamburg, Germany on 9 November, will feature an SCR system which helps reduce nitrogen oxide by 90 per cent through advanced active emissions control technology. Nitrogen oxide from the engine operations is conducted through a catalyst – a high-density device made from noble metals – and converts them into nitrogen and water, both harmless compounds.

The ship will also be fitted with a next-generation AWT system. Through very fine filtration, wastewater from MSC Grandiosa will undergo a comprehensive purification process that transforms it to near tap-water quality. The system meets the so-called ‘Baltic Standard’ and treats the wastewater to a higher standard than most waste standards available in cities around the world.

MSC Cruises’ next flagship will adhere, therefore, to the world’s strictest environmental standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which will lead to nearly zero impact in these areas. This will also allow MSC Grandiosa to be certified to operate in delicate environments such as the Baltic Sea and Alaska.

MSC Grandiosa will also be fitted with shore-to-ship power which connects cruise ships while at berth to a port’s local power grid to further reduce the ship’s air emissions while in port. This is a feature that is broadly available across MSC Cruises’ entire fleet and has come as standard across all its new builds since 2017.

These new features add to other effective environmental technologies deployed on the ship and across the Company’s fleet to minimise and continuously reduce environmental impact, including: cutting-edge hybrid Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS) that remove sulphur oxide from ship emissions; advanced waste management and wastewater treatment systems; ballast water treatment systems; latest-technology systems for the prevention of oil discharges from machinery spaces and various state-of-the-art energy-efficiency improvements – from heat recovery systems to LED lighting.

Currently, MSC Grandiosa and 10 other ships in MSC Cruises’ fleet of 17 ships are equipped for cleaner emissions with hybrid EGCS’ which removes 98 per cent of sulphur dioxide from a ship’s exhausts. The line’s six other ships will be retrofitted with the technology by the end of 2021 and until then will rely on the use of low sulphur fuels to always fully comply with the strictest existing as well as new maritime regulations.

MSC Grandiosa, is the third Meraviglia class of ship to enter MSC Cruises’ fleet and the first of three Meraviglia-Plus ships. It will be MSC Cruises’ fifth new ship to enter into service in the past 30 months and is part of a plan to build 17 highly innovative and environmentally sound cruise ships between 2017 and 2027.

Monday 23 September 2019

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Shares Seven Firsts On Board Seven Seas Splendor™



Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC), the world's leading luxury ocean cruise line, will be launching its newest and highly anticipated ship, Seven Seas Splendor™ in February 2020, with limited suites still available for her coveted inaugural season. Lisa Pile, Vice President, General Manager at Regent Seven Seas Cruises shares Seven Seas Splendor's seven firsts for the brand, and why the remarkable ship will perfect luxury.

"With Seven Seas Splendor™, Regent Seven Seas Cruises has raised the bar for luxury ocean travel. We are excited to be delivering a ship that exhibits the highest level of elegance, from lavish marble finishes to one-of-a-kind artworks proudly displayed throughout. She is truly a masterpiece, and we can't wait for our guests to be able to experience what makes a voyage with Regent an unrivalled experience – with our all-inclusive, personalised offering being second to none," said Ms. Pile.

"We are inviting guests to join us for one of Seven Seas Splendor's 2020 itineraries to the Caribbean, Panama Canal and Mediterranean, where they will be some of the first in the world to experience these seven exclusive initiatives," adds Ms. Pile.

Seven Seas Splendor's Seven Firsts:

1. Speciality Coffee with Extra Sunshine

Fleet favourite, Coffee Connection, is being expanded with a new al fresco seating area, allowing guests to savour their custom coffee creations and delectable pastries while enjoying a sun-kissed morning or afternoon with a calm ocean breeze.

"As nations that are known for being home to coffee connoisseurs, as well as lovers of the outdoors, we are sure that the new al fresco seating area at Coffee Connection is sure to be a hit with our Australian and New Zealand guests," said Ms. Pile.

2. The New Flavour of Luxury – Destination Menus

The newest Regent Seven Seas Cruises ship will elevate the cruise line's legendary cuisine with destination dishes to be served during lunch at La Veranda that bring aboard local ingredients and culinary traditions from the exotic destinations where Seven Seas Splendor™ is sailing.

"La Veranda features a variety of delectable selections to chose from morning, noon and night. With Seven Seas Splendor™ taking in a raft of unique ports as part of her itineraries, guests will have the opportunity to truly taste the flavours of the world both onboard and ashore - from Mexican delights in Cabo San Lucas to Spanish Paella in Barcelona – your tastebuds are sure to be tantalised," said Ms. Pile

3. Dine Over Sea at Sette Mari

Enjoy the authentic Mediterranean flavours of Sette Mari in stunning, over-water alcove seating. Jetting out over the ocean for an even closer connection to the sea and surrounded on three sides by inspiring, magnificent views, guests will never forget this brand-new dining experience.

"One of my personal 'must-do's for when I'll be aboard Seven Seas Splendor™ next year. The new over-water alcove seating at Sette Mari at La Veranda will see guests seated out over the water for an even closer connection to the sea, surrounded by stunning panoramic views. I'll certainly be sampling some Tuscan wine, that will be perfectly paired with new dishes such as Spice-Crusted Tuna Steak with Braised Endive, Polenta and Salmoriglio – divine," said Ms. Pile.

4. The New Most Luxurious Residence at Sea

Building on the renowned reputation of sister-ship Seven Seas Explorer's Regent Suite, Splendor's preeminent accommodation perfects elegance with a US$200,000 Hastens hand-crafted bed and a 30% larger master bath and in-suite spa, with a stunning new floor-to-ceiling ocean-view shower. There's also a Treesse minipool spa placed on the front balcony, providing incredible views from dawn to dusk.

"The Regent Suite onboard Seven Seas Splendor™ is the crown jewel in Regent's accommodation offering, with no expense spared to ensure that we are providing our guests with the most luxurious residence at sea. The Regent Suite is the largest suite to ever be built on a luxury cruise ship - boasting 412 square-metres of beauty and comfort - making the Regent Suite nearly twice as large as the average Australian home, and 20 times larger than the average cruise ship stateroom. Guests can enjoy their personal in-suite sauna and steam room, unobstructed 270-degree views over the ships bow and a 120 square-metre wraparound veranda, to name but of few of the suites features," said Ms. Pile.

5. Brand New Culinary Creations, Made by You

With 18 individual cooking stations, the Culinary Arts Kitchen on board Seven Seas Splendor™ will offer a range of 20 new culinary classes teaching professional techniques and recipes by master chef instructors. New classes vary from teaching seven methods to prepare seafood, to exploring emerging fusion cuisines from around the world.

"The Culinary Arts Kitchen is where our guests can let out their inner foodie in an environment reminiscent of the most prestigious cooking schools in the world. Due to the small class sizes, guests will enjoy personalised, hands-on instruction. Example class themes include something for all tastes and skill levels, from mastering crowd pleasing brunch recipes, to embarking on a culinary safari around the diverse countries of Africa," said Ms. Pile.

6. Explore New Tastes

Exclusive to the inaugural season of Seven Seas Splendor™ are the new Gourmet Explorer Tours, delivering one-of-a-kind epicurean adventures. Guests can choose from a variety of tours that take them to local markets to find exotic spices and allow them to sample delicious wines at breath-taking estates, or savour gourmet meals expertly prepared by locally renowned chefs.

"Our Gourmet Explorer Tours are designed to deliver bespoke epicurean adventures to our guests, with tours having been personally crafted by Regent's Executive Chef and Director of Culinary Enrichment, Kathryn Kelly. More information on specific Gourmet Explorer Tours will be announced later this year, so be sure to keep as eye out as spaces tend to book fast," said. Ms Pile

7. First Woman Captain to Launch a Brand New Cruise Ship

On 8th March, 2019 – International Women's Day – Regent Seven Seas Cruises proudly announced that Captain Serena Melani will take the helm of Seven Seas Splendor™, making her the first woman in cruise industry history to captain a new cruise ship.

"This is a first that I'm particularly proud of. Captain Serena has been with RSSC since 2010, and is definitely a trailblazer in the cruise industry – where she is admired by guests and crew alike. She has been very hands-on with the development of Seven Seas Splendor™, having spent much of this year at the shipyard in Italy where she is being built, collaborating with the engineers and designers to ensure the ship's form and function is perfect," said Ms. Pile.

Seven Seas Splendor™ will be sail through some of the most desirable destinations in the world including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and North America, with her inaugural sailing departing Barcelona on 6 February, 2020.

Please find a link to a brochure on Seven Seas Splendor here


Visit New Caledonia, Fiji, and Vanuatu aboard Silver Muse




Ultra-luxury cruise line, Silversea Cruises is inviting guests to discover the tropical wonderlands of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Vanuatu aboard the stunning Silver Muse when she sets sail in the region for the very first time in 2020. All-inclusive fly/cruise fares for a 14-day voyage start from just AU$8,400 per person, based on double occupancy in a Vista Suite, with cruise only fares starting from just AU$7,400 per person.

The only small-ship luxury cruise line to offer these itineraries, Silversea offers guests the opportunity to discover the jewels of the South Pacific whilst enjoying the intimate atmosphere of the all-suite Silver Muse. With comprehensive fares and highly personalised service, guests are encouraged to book now to avoid missing out on the following special offers and enrichments:

- Included Business Class Flights

Guests booking by 30 September 2019 will enjoy included roundtrip Business Class flights from select gateways in Australia and New Zealand, plus transfers between airport and ship.

- Last Minute Savings

Guests booking by 31 October 2019 will enjoy AU$1,000 on board credit per suite, plus a one category suite upgrade where available.

- Enrichment Lecturer: Joseph Snyder

Joseph Snyder was a diplomat with the U.S. State Department Foreign Service for 30 years. He served in Thailand, Iran, Taiwan, Malaysia and Austria, as well as in Washington where his positions included that of Director of the State Department Press Office and Spokesman. Joe will join guests on board as a destination and special interest lecturer.

- Enrichment Lecturer: Jon Fleming

Jon Fleming has sailed on over 200 cruises worldwide and his combination of personal experience and historical knowledge, plus an entertaining presentation style makes history interesting, accessible and relevant for his audience. Jon will join gests on board as a destination consultant.

- All-inclusive Fares

On board, Silversea’s all-inclusive fares include fine food from around the world, complimentary beverages in-suite and throughout the ship, and butler service for each suite.

Departing on 18 February 2020 for 14 days, guests sailing aboard Silver Muse will discover a magic realm of pristine beaches, colourful coral gardens, and cascading waterfalls as they journey through New Caledonia, Fiji and Vanuatu. In the tropical playground of New Caledonia, Silver Muse makes ports of call in Pine Island, Lifou and Noumea whilst in the stunning archipelago of Vanuatu, Port Vila is waiting to be explored. In Fiji, guests will witness the volcanic landscapes of Dravuni Island, a new port of call for Silver Muse for 2020, along with the fascinating destinations of Lautoka and Savusavu.

For more information on this voyage visit: https://www.silversea.com/destinations/australia-new-zealand-cruise/sydney-to-sydney-6004.html#itinerary-58467

Voyages and special offers are subject to change and may be withdrawn at any time. Terms and conditions apply. For more information, contact your travel professional or Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or 1300 306 872 or visit www.silversea.com

MSC new summer schedules for 2020



  • The introduction of MSC Grandiosa to the fleet will offer guests the opportunity to rediscover the gems of the Mediterranean
  • Guests looking for more flexibility can book onto MSC Cruises’ butterfly cruises
  • A new itinerary for Asia is announced for MSC Bellissima

The greatest experiences are the ones you can share with others. Any MSC Cruises holiday is made unforgettable through the combination of international cuisine, world-class entertainment and award-winning* family offering - perfect for couples, friends and families alike. Now is the time to plan and book to travel in style to the world’s most beautiful locations.

The Mediterranean introducing MSC Grandiosa’s First Summer Season

Experts in Mediterranean-cruising style, MSC Cruises will deploy 10 ships in this popular cruise region. MSC Grandiosa will become the newest flagship in the Company’s fleet when she launches in November, calling at Genoa and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; Palermo, Sicily; Valetta, Malta; Barcelona, Spain and Marseille, France. The new flagship will offer a richness of experiences, from world-class entertainment with brand new Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows, a wide choice of international dining options, original activities for families to an enhanced MSC Yacht Club. MSC Grandiosa will become the second MSC Cruises ship to feature ZOE, the world’s first virtual cruise personal assistant and new updates to the innovative MSC for Me digital innovation program.

Alongside MSC Grandiosa, three other ships will sail in the Western Mediterranean in 2020 - MSC Divina, MSC Fantasia and MSC Seaview, rediscovering the gems of the continent:
The beautiful MSC Seaview will call at Barcelona on Saturdays, followed by Ajaccio, France; Genoa, La Spezia and Civitavecchia, Italy; Cannes, France and Palma de Mallorca on Fridays.
MSC Divina will call at Genoa, Italy; Marseille, France, Barcelona, Spain followed by thrilling party-destination, Ibiza then Naples and Livorno, Italy.
MSC Fantasia, will call Genoa, Civitavecchia, Italy; Palermo, Sicily; Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Spain and Marseille, France

In the Eastern Mediterranean, with six ships in region, MSC Cruises are offering a cruise that suits everyone looking for a charming experience in this picturesque region:
MSC Orchestra MSC Musica, MSC Magnifica, MSC Sinfonia and MSC Opera will all offer itineraries from Venice in the Greek Islands and the best of the Adriatic Sea: highlights include Dubrovnik, Mykonos and Santorini to name a few. During peak season, MSC Lirica will be offering itineraries including Valletta, Malta and Syracuse.

Experience Natural Beauty in the Caribbean

The sunny Caribbean is a must for cruise lovers and will feature two MSC Cruises ships throughout the summer season:
During 2020, the iconic MSC Seaside will continue her reign in the Caribbean, sailing seven-night itineraries from Miami and experiencing the rhythmic beats of Ocho Rios, the idyllic surroundings of George Town and the Mexican paradise of Cozumel.
Rounding out the Western Caribbean, guests will get the opportunity to sail in the Italian style aboard the MSC Armonia. This ship will call Jamaica, Cayman Islands and Mexico or Key West. Both ships will also call at the new private destination Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, officially opening this November. This stunning island will allow guests to discover the beautiful natural environment and soak up the spirit of The Bahamas.

Discover the Adventurous Wonders of Northern Europe

Four MSC Cruises ships will be deployed in Northern Europe for summer 2020, the perfect opportunity to visit Scandinavian and Eastern European gems, including:

Longer cruises of up to 14 nights will be offered on MSC Preziosa, sailing from Hamburg with cruises in the Baltics, Fjords and North Cape. MSC Preziosa will also offer seven-night Northern Pearls cruises from Hamburg calling at Le Havre, Southampton, Zeebrugge, Rotterdam and Amsterdam.
MSC Poesia, homeported in Warnemünde will offer 11-night Baltic cruises and a mixture of seven-night cruises, visiting the Fjords in Norway and the Baltic capitals. Guests can experience a longer break with a larger range of destinations and combine two different routes by booking on one of the back-to-back butterfly cruises. MSC Poesia’s highlight will be her stunning 21-night cruise featuring Greenland and Iceland, two spots perfect for adventure-seekers and nature lovers.
MSC Meraviglia, the ship for all seasons, will return to Northern Europe, homeporting in Kiel (Germany) on Saturdays and taking you on a cultural trip round Copenhagen, Helsinki and St Petersburg as well as the Fjords including Hellesylt, Alesund and Flaam, Norway.
MSC Splendida, will join MSC Meraviglia in their homeport of Kiel, with a variety of itineraries, including a long cruise to the Emerald Isle of Ireland and the North Cape, calling at Tallinn and Stockholm offering cruises in the Fjords including Bergen, Olden, Flaam, Stavanger plus the Baltics.
MSC Poesia and MSC Splendida autumn cruises offer 12 or nine-night cruises respectively to Portugal and Morocco, or Madeira and Canary Islands.

Set sail in the charming Far East

Explore Asia in style and join MSC Belissima on one of three new itineraries for 2020 with a choice of different length cruises. In June, July and August, a six or seven-night cruise departing from Shanghai, Asia’s shopping paradise will then call at Japan’s second largest city, Yokohama and finally Osaka, none other than a perfect combination of energic cities, iconic street food markets and awe-inspiring city skylines. Meanwhile, a stunning nine-night cruise in October from Tokyo, Japan will offer guests the chance to visit Wakyama, Hiroshima and Matsuyama, Japan before calling at Ganjeong, Korea and then Yokohama, Japan.

For more information on Summer 2020 visit msccruises.com.au or msccruises.co.nz