The launch of new ships continues unabated in 2002 for the burgeoning cruise industry. Savvy vacation-goers are realizing the great value that cruise ships have to offer, and are taking to the sea in record numbers. New innovations in cruise-ship technology mean that ships are moving faster, allowing the chance to visit more ports in less time. They're also running quieter, meaning that passengers arrive in these ports more rested and relaxed.
This year, the operative word is “more.” The new ships of 2002 offer more dining options, more spa facilities, more shopping, more onboard activities, more room to roam, and more plain old-fashioned pampering.
In addition, more cruises are departing from more North American cities such as New Orleans and Baltimore this year, making the departure process more convenient and accessible to more people. Onboard, there will be more communication facilities available to get in touch with family, friends, and business associates back home. The other thing passengers will be noticing a lot more of this year is security. X-ray machines will screen baggage, coast guard vessels will escort cruise ships into port, and at some ports passengers will need to pass through metal detectors. All of this is designed for smooth sailing and a worry-free cruise experience. So, sit back, relax, and read on to see what exciting vacation-enhancing features this year’s new ships have to offer.
Carnival
Promising to be a legend in its own time, Carnival’s newest Fun Ship, the Carnival Legend will be the first Carnival ship to visit European ports. Suitably, the ship’s interiors were inspired by famous legends and myths, which passengers can see come to life in such ports as Helsinki and Reykjavik. The ship’s narrow design also makes it a natural for navigating the Panama Canal and journeys through the Caribbean. The Fun Ship design means that passengers will have plenty to do during days at sea, including myriad activities for both children and adults.
Holland America
Much has changed since the Rotterdam made its maiden Atlantic crossing sailing from Holland to New York in 1873 with eight first-class passengers and 128 in steerage. Perhaps the best illustration of this will be the winter birth of the Zuiderdam, large enough to carry 1,848 passengers. The first of Holland America’s new Vista Series class of ships, this premium vessel will have the highest passenger/space ratio of all Holland America ships. As if to prove just how far cruising has forayed into the 21st century, the ship will feature such modern innovations as Internet data ports in every stateroom, a round-the-clock café, and the largest and most advanced spa in the Holland America fleet. Other special touches such as a multi-million dollar art collection, 10-deck-high exterior glass elevators on both sides of the ship, and fine Waterford crystal accenting the ship’s atrium ensure luxury from fore to aft.
Norwegian
Riding the waves of the successful freestyle cruising concept, Norwegian will roll out a ship built to offer the utmost in luxury and flexibility. Passengers who want the ultimate control over their vacations will be eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Norwegian Dawn this winter. Sailing on alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, the ship will feature 10 different restaurants, each with its own ambiance and cuisine, ranging from sushi to tapas, but will also offer traditional seating arrangements to those who prefer it. Those seeking a cocktail will have even more options, with over a dozen bars and lounges to choose from. Among the sumptuous amenities in the staterooms are comfortable bedding and high-tech computer ports. In addition to a wide range of activities and an exciting children’s program, the ship will also feature a complex of multi-room villas with private gardens and relaxing sunning areas.
Princess
The cruise line that began in 1965 with one ship in Mexico and gave rise to the popular Love Boat TV series now operates 10 luxury cruise ships, with still more in the works. Following in the successful wake of the Star Princess, the Coral Princess is set to debut in October 2002, featuring an innovative power-generation technology that takes up less room, giving passengers more elbow room on board. This ship represents the first of a new class of mid-sized ships for Princess; slender enough to cross through the Panama Canal, but roomy enough that 90 percent of its staterooms face outward, most with private balconies designed to take in the sweeping vistas. A special New Orleans-style lounge is one of the ship’s many innovative offerings that include such Princess staples as a swim-against-the-current lap pool and state-of-the-art spa.
Royal Caribbean
The new Navigator of the Seas is the latest offering from the company that introduced ice-skating rinks, rock-climbing walls, and mini-golf to the sea. Sister ship to the venerable Voyager of the Seas, this ship will feature cruising’s first horizontal atrium--two football fields in length and four stories high! Boasting more shopping than any other ship at sea, highlights aboard this ship also include a three-story dining room and a collection of fine artwork gracing the public areas. Navigator of the Seas will begin its sea-going career with departures from Miami to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.•
