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    THE RITZ-CARLTON YACHT COLLECTION OPENS RESERVATIONS FOR THIRD SUPERYACHT LUMINARA

    The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection unveiled its summer 2025 itineraries across its fleet, Evrima, Ilma, and Luminara, marking an exciting moment as the company opens bookings for the inaugural season of its third superyacht. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection debuted in October 2022 with the launch of Evrima, the first time a luxury hospitality brand expanded into the cruising category. With all three superyachts now open for reservations, the brand extension continues to build on its success signifying continued growth and offering more opportunities for luxury travelers to enjoy unforgettable getaways at sea.“A standard in luxury cruising was set in 2022 with the introduction of Evrima, the first of our Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fleet, marking our expansion into the yachting category,” said Tina Edmundson, President, Luxury, Marriott International. “In a short time, our world-class itineraries have attracted guests who are new to the category and interested in exploring new horizons and cultures with the assurance of The Ritz- Carlton brand. We are thrilled to have created experiences that redefine luxury cruising. Endless explorations await as we prepare to launch our second yacht, Ilma, in 2024, and our third, Luminara, in 2025.”
    “With Luminara, we are not just adding another superyacht to our fleet; we are expanding the horizons of ultra-luxury travel,” stated Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “This growth embodies our unwavering dedication to exploration, enrichment, and the pursuit of extraordinary experiences for our guests. Luminara is an invitation to embark on remarkable journeys and discover the world’s most captivating destinations with unparalleled amenities and service.”
    The Inaugural Season of Luminara
    Inspiring curiosities and celebrations, Luminara, derived from Latin origin and meaning “light,” will measure 794 feet (242 meters) and accommodate up to 452 guests. In addition to 226 spacious suites, each boasting a private ocean-view terrace, a higher percentage of upper-suite categories, and superior guest amenities, the onboard experience will feature world-class dining, a wine vault, The Ritz-Carlton Spa®, and an expanded marina providing direct access to the sea. Among its range of upper-suite categories will be a new expansive accommodation, The Residential Suite, promising a collection of offerings that caters to a variety of preferences.
    Luminara will embody contemporary craftsmanship and refined interior finishes envisioned by AD Associates, a renowned London-based architectural and design firm, with creative direction by Chapi Chapo Design, an internationally acclaimed Toronto-based luxury design firm, and celebrated lighting designer DPA. The yacht’s sleek and graceful exterior design, expertly envisioned by Helsinki-based design studio Aivan, draws inspiration from the elegant aesthetics of private yacht design. Inspired by light and luminescence, Luminara’s design emphasizes elegance and sophistication. Its layout, featuring explorative passages and favoring circular silhouettes over geometric edges, creates a seamless design, forming a sense of limitless space in each area. A serene color palette of soft brown oak, Calcutta marble, leather accents, and touches of rich red, navy, and green will provide an elegant oasis at sea.ADVERTISEMENTThe 2025 Summer Season
    The summer season spanning from April to October 2025 presents a curated selection of 53 itineraries, featuring new ports of call, standout shore excursions, and an inaugural experience – nine exclusive voyages aboard Ilma in Northern Europe. Ilma will navigate the North Sea and Baltic Sea, offering journeys to dynamic cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Reykjavík, alongside culturally rich stops in Belfast, Bergen, Antwerp, and more. Guests will also explore beloved yachting havens, including the Greek Isles, the Balearic Islands, the French Riviera, and the Italian Riviera.
    Breathtaking ports of call bring novel adventures to travelers such as the historic maritime city of Toulon, the lively nightlife of Marbella, and the pristine beaches in Kos. Wine enthusiasts can discover the iconic vineyards of Bordeaux while history aficionados can venture through the historic castles of Edinburgh. With more time in port, the new voyages allow plenty of time for exploration.
    Providing the opportunity to uncover all a destination has to offer, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a curated collection of enriching onshore excursions. In Palma de Mallorca, guests are invited to book a private helicopter tour to a wine tasting nestled at the foot of Mallorca’s mountain region. Guests in Livorno, Italy may sail the canals of the city in a boat exclusively for guests of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection before disembarking for a mixology class with a world class bartender. Panoramic views of Portofino Bay await voyagers at the elegant Hotel Splendido where guests will enjoy a lunch of traditional Italian recipes, paired with one of Italy’s most precious ingredients: olive oil.
    Highlights of 2025 Summer Itineraries Aboard Luminara:
    July 31, 2025 | 7-Night Rome Round TripDuring an overnight in Livorno, go truffle hunting in Tuscany, climb the infamous Tower of Pisa, and discover the Renaissance icons of Florence. Then take in the scenic Ligurian coast by kayak from Portofino and the equally stunning Côte d’Azur via helicopter from Monte Carlo, continuing to the mountains of Corsica and the yacht-filled harbor of Porto Cervo.
    August 7, 2025 | 7-Night Rome Round TripOn the rooftop terrace of a 17th-century palace in Malta, the Michelin-starred restaurant De Mondion offers a delicious prelude to adventures in Italy. Contrast Sicily’s ancient Greek theaters with the vast ruins of Pompeii near Sorrento and reflect on the ancient history you’ve witnessed while boating along the Amalfi Coast and exploring ethereal blue grottoes.
    August 21, 2025 | 7-Night Barcelona Round TripEnjoy two days to explore the countless icons of Rome, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, and toss a coin in Trevi Fountain to ensure your return. Then natural wonders take center stage as you kayak the Ligurian coastline and explore the scenic countryside around Collioure that inspired artists like Matisse and Picasso.
    Highlights of 2025 Summer Itineraries Aboard Ilma:
    June 29, 2025 | 9-Night Lisbon to PortsmouthWine connoisseurs and novices alike will appreciate the opportunity to sip port in Portugal, taste Rioja in Spain, and spend two days exploring the renowned vineyards of Bordeaux. Culinary delights are complemented by cultural marvels like Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum and the magnificent abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel perched on a tidal island near Saint-Malo.
    July 24, 2025 | 7-Night Copenhagen to StockholmUNESCO protects many cultural treasures surrounding the Baltic Sea, including the 17th-century naval port of Karlskrona, the 18th-century fortress guarding Helsinki, and the medieval Old Town of Tallinn. While exploring five different countries along these fascinating shores, shop for a souvenir of Baltic amber in Gdansk, and try Swedish pancakes and smoked salmon in Mariehamn.
    August 17, 2025 | 7-Night Reykjavík Round TripSetting off from the cosmopolitan capital of Reykjavík, circumnavigate Iceland to experience this wonderland from the waterfalls and thermal baths around Akureyri to the mountains and glaciers near Grundarfjörður. Explore remote villages where intrepid locals have made lives amidst the raw natural beauty and sail as far north as the Arctic Circle along the way.
    Highlights of 2025 Summer Itineraries Aboard Evrima:
    April 24, 2025 | 10-Night Lisbon to BarcelonaBask in the Mediterranean’s balmy spring as you sail from Lisbon to Barcelona. Compare two grand Moorish fortresses protected by UNESCO – the Alcázar royal palace of Seville and Granada’s Alhambra castle near Málaga – and then explore the contrasting cultures and unrivaled beaches of the Balearic Islands.
    June 5, 2025 | 7-Night Venice Round TripAdriatic culture, cuisine and history are the themes of this journey that begins and concludes along the iconic canals of Venice. Stroll the narrow medieval streets of the Old Towns in Kotor and Zadar, sip Croatian wine as the sun sets on Dubrovnik, and tour the 15th-century Venetian palace in Koper’s historic center.
    June 27, 2025 | 9-Night Athens Round TripExperience two of Turkey’s most wondrous icons with an overnight stay in a nexus of civilization – the city of Istanbul – and a visit to the remarkably restored ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Ephesus. Along the way, go Greek island hopping through whitewashed villages dripping in bougainvillea from Skiathos to Mykonos.
    The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection brings the renowned service of The Ritz-Carlton to sea, offering a luxury yachting experience that navigates guests to the world’s most sought-after destinations. Spanning three superyachts, the bespoke collection provides airy, inviting spaces, encouraging relaxation and exploration. With more daytime and overnight ports of call, guests enjoy increased flexibility for onshore experiences. For more information on Evrima, Ilma, Luminara, and the upcoming yachting seasons of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, please visit www.ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com.

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    5 Top New Year Cruise Deals

    Iglu Cruise has launched a huge New Year Sale, with discounts, offers and benefits on thousands of cruises. Highlights include:
    A free £100 John Lewis Gift Card on selected luxury cruisesWellbeing Cruise under £800 with TV presenter Cherry HealeyAll-inclusive sailings from under £1,640 with MarellaFree $200 drinks bar tab with Virgin’s Sea Terrace Cabins20% discounts with added £50 discount for January bookings
    TOP CRUISE OFFERS IN JANUARY 2024 FROM THE UK’S no. 1 CRUISE AGENT
    Iglu Cruise add £100 John Lewis voucher to selected bookings
    Receive a £100 gift voucher to spend in John Lewis with selected luxury cruise bookings made in January. ADVERTISEMENTIglu Cruise offers ‘Canary Islands & Cape Verde with Las Palmas Stay’ for 12 nights from £3,499 per person based on two sharing a Veranda Suite on an all-inclusive basis with Wi-Fi and tips included on board Seabourn’s Quest, departing London Gatwick on April 2, 2024. This price includes a 15% discount for bookings made by February 29th. Free voucher
    Wellbeing & Lifestyle Cruise from £767
    Maintain new year’s resolutions for wellness into March, with this great value getaway to Spain, Portugal and the Canaries. TV presenter Cherry Healey and stylist Kat Farmer will be sharing tips in helpful workshops on how to best support mental and physical health. Iglu Cruise offers ‘Spain, Portugal & Canaries from Southampton, Wellbeing and Lifestyle Cruise’ for 14 nights from only £767 per person (was £799) based on two sharing an inside cabin on full board, on P&O Cruises’ Iona, departing Southampton on March 2, 2024. No tipping is required. Additional charges for wellbeing masterclasses. Wellness with Cherry Healey
    An All-Inclusive Iglu-Exclusive – Barbados to Majorca
    This offer is exclusive to Iglu Cruise, and invites guests to spend more than a fortnight in the Spring cruising from top sights in the Caribbean back to Europe. This all-inclusive means there’s nothing to pay for flights, luggage allowance, overseas transfers, tips, food, drinks and entertainment. Iglu Cruise offers ‘Atlantic Voyage from Barbados to Majorca’ for 17 nights from £1,639 per person (was £1,824) based on two sharing an inside cabin, all inclusive, on Marella Cruises’ Marella Voyager, departing London Gatwick (Manchester and Glasgow +£300) on April 14, 2024. Exclusive All-Inclusive
    A free $200 bar tab per Sea Terrace (Balcony) Cabin
    Go wild on board a Virgin Voyages Cruise in September. Iglu Cruise offers ‘Bruges and Amsterdam from Portsmouth’ for 5 nights from £959 per person based on two sharing a Sea Terrace Cabin including full board, drinks, speciality dining, Wi-Fi and tips on board Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady, departing Portsmouth on September 3, 2024. Guests can enjoy a $200 drinks bar tab for the journey!  Free drinks tab
    Intensely Greece – Save 20% + £50 discount
    Enjoy 20% off this cruise, an in-depth tour of Greece’s top sights together with stays in Istanbul and Athens. Iglu Cruise offers ‘Greece Intensive with Istanbul & Athens Stays’ for 14 nights from £1,999 per person based on two sharing a Club Interior cabin, full board, ‘More Inclusive’ drinks and gratuities included on Azamara Cruises’ Azamara Journey, departing Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Newcastle, Edinburgh or Glasgow (London Airports +£80) on August 8, 2024. Includes £50 discount if booked by January 31st. Grecian Delight
    About Iglu.com
    Iglu.com is Europe’s largest online travel agent of cruise holidays, trading as Iglu Cruise in the UK, and Planet Cruise across the UK and Europe.
    Independent since its launch 25 years ago, pioneering, multi-award-winning Iglu Cruise offers millions of holidays from 3,000 ports to 30 incredible destinations worldwide, and is the primary partner for all major cruise lines. Crowned Online Agency of the Year 2023, Iglu offers unique, fast and easy online search and booking, and personal, unbiased advice from the 100-strong expert team.
    Iglu Cruise is an ABTA-bonded travel agent selling cruises and ATOL-bonded fly-cruise packages, and works with the industry to support sustainable travel. Awarded a customer satisfaction score 97% or higher by Feefo.

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    THE RIYADH SCHOOL OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY UNVEILED AT WORLD TOURISM DAY IN SAUDI ARABIA

    New details about the pioneering Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality were unveiled at the World Tourism Day (WTD) event, hosted in RiyadhFirst announced in 2021, the school is co-founded by the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Qiddiya in collaboration with UNWTO.
    The Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality is envisioned to become the world’s first student-centric academy to unite all facets of tourism training required to empower the next generation of tourism and hospitality leaders from around the world and bridge the global tourism skills gap.
    The new developments were announced during a press conference hosted by the Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, and the UNWTO Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvil on the sidelines of the World Tourism Day event.
    To be located at the Kingdom’s entertainment megaproject headquarters, Qiddiya, with an interim facility at Princess Nourah University, the Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality reaffirms Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in advancing the global tourism sector and underscores its commitment to bridging the global skills shortage to accelerate the industry’s future growth. The school will be accepting students from Q4 2024 and by 2030 will have a student intake of more than 25,000 per year.
    Currently, the majority of international tourism institutes do not offer both academic and vocational education across the breadth and depth of the ecosystem within one institution. Through a pioneering hybrid curriculum, the student-centric institution will capitalise on this opportunity by bringing together the brightest minds, cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art facilities and top faculty to create a holistic, career-focused program.ADVERTISEMENTThe board of trustees for the school will include multi-disciplined leaders from diverse backgrounds from tourism and hospitality to investment and Ed-Tech. In addition to His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, are Qiddiya’s Managing Director Abdullah AlDawood, Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the UNWTO, CEO of Accor Hotels Sebastian Bazin, Group Chief Executive Officer, Ad Diriyah Gate Development Authority Jerry Inzerillo, Morgan Parker, and CEO of Udacity Kai Roemmelt amongst others that will be announced in due course.
    His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, said: “Success of the tourism sector extends far beyond economic growth, but hinges on the commitment of governments worldwide to equip future tourism leaders with the skills required to thrive in this fast-evolving industry.
    “The Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality is Saudi’s gift to the world. Through its pioneering curriculum, that will offer comprehensive higher education courses covering all aspects of the tourism and hospitality industry, the school represents Saudi’s commitment to providing comprehensive, progressive education that empowers individuals, both domestically and internationally. As we invest in the next generation of tourism professionals, we are not only securing the industry’s future but also fostering a legacy of excellence that will drive prosperity, stimulate individual growth of citizens and foster cultural exchange for years to come.”
    Additionally, Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the UNWTO, added: “The latest developments of the Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality mark an important milestone in our pursuit of a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector. Education is the bedrock of progress, and by investing in the skills and knowledge of future tourism leaders, we are strengthening the foundations upon which the industry’s growth and development depend.”
    As the tourism sector continues its economic growth trajectory – poised to reach $9.5 trillion in GDP contribution in 2023 – the sector is predicted to employ 430 million people globally by 2033, with almost 12% of the working population employed in the sector. With the fastest growing travel and tourism sector in the Middle East according to the WTTC, Saudi Arabia had trained 80,000 citizens by 2022, and committed to investing over $100 million in education and training.
    The Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality is part of the Kingdom’s broader commitment to the development of the global tourism sector, demonstrated by their hosting of WTD 2023. Under the theme “Tourism and Green Investments”, attendees are exploring the essential role of tourism and global collaboration in driving prosperity, bridging cultures and preserving the environment through a variety of activities.

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    TUI RIVER CRUISES LAUNCHES NILE CRUISE WITH FOURTH SHIP, TUI AL HOREYA

    TUI River Cruises has announced a brand-new River Nile cruise set to commence in Winter 2024 with exclusive TUI charter flights to Luxor from London Gatwick and Manchester Airports.The exciting expansion means that the river cruise line will add a fully refurbished five-star ship, to be named TUI Al Horeya, which means ‘freedom’, to operate seven-night, all-inclusive round-trip sailings from Luxor. TUI Al Horeya can accommodate 145 passengers and offers 74 cabins including singles, standard cabins and suites.
    Two flights per week will operate from London Gatwick and Manchester to Luxor; a city which encompasses a mesmerizing blend of history, architecture, and culture. The new routes is exclusive to TUI, which will be the only tour operator to offer direct, non-stop flights from the UK to Luxor which will operate weekly on a Thursday from 7th November 2024 until 24th April 2025.

    Chris Hackney, managing director of TUI River Cruises said: “TUI River Cruises is going from strength to strength, and we are so excited to introduce this latest offering on the Nile which we are confident our customers will love.
    ADVERTISEMENT“A cruise along the Nile offers a serene and unforgettable experience with lush landscapes, traditional villages, and other iconic landmarks such as the Luxor and Edfu Temples. With year-round sunshine, Egypt is the perfect destination for exploring ancient history and allowing guests to immerse themselves in a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

    He continued, “The name TUI Al Horeya was chosen to ensure we kept local connection to Egypt, as it is our only TUI River Cruise ship which will stay in the one country. TUI Al Horeya in Arabic means ‘freedom’, signifying the freedom the water brings to explore which is a great representation of what river cruising is all about.”

    Dedicated licenced Egyptologists will be on hand throughout the trip to enhance the customer experience to be on hand to answer any questions. The modern and contemporary ship will boasts a top deck swimming pool, two whirlpools, an entertainment area, restaurant, Al Fresco dining, lounge bar, wellness studio and a boutique shop.

    Like the rest of the fleet, TUI Al Horeya will include a day and night entertainment programme, as well as offering customers a wide range of excursions which have been curated by industry experts, guaranteed to transport visitors back in time to the era of pharaohs and dynasties.

    There will be two set excursions included within the sailing package price, this includes the Temple of Horus in Edfu and the temple of Kom Ombo. To ensure that customers have as much flexibility within their cruise, a range of excursions will be on offer in Luxor and Awan for them to choose from. Options include:

    Discovering the Temples of Karnak and Luxor with the Sphinx Avenue, a strikingly graceful piece or architecture on the banks of the Nile;Experiencing a sound and light show at Karnak Temple, which recounts the history of Thebes and the lives of pharaohs;Visiting the Nubian Village, located on an Island, and sail on a traditional felucca, a canvas-sailed boat;Touring the High Dam, Obellsk and Phllae Temple, which was built in 1960
    TUI Al Horeya is the latest addition to the TUI River Cruise fleet, which currently has three adult only ships. The announcement of this new destination comes on the back of strong demand from customers, with bookings increasing by 40 per cent compared to last year. To meet demand for Winter 2024, all three European ships will be going on sale for festive sailings and will include two new seven-night itineraries over New Year’s Eve; the ‘New Year Sail Away’ itinerary on-board TUI Isla, with New Year’s Eve spent in Cologne and ‘Sail into the New Year’ itinerary on TUI Maya, with new year’s celebrations in Frankfurt. This is in addition to the existing ‘New Year on The Rhine’ itinerary on Skyla.

    The first Legends of the Nile itinerary will set sail on the 7th November 2024:
    Day 1: Luxor
    Day 2: Luxor
    Day 3: Edfu
    Day 4: Kom Ombo
    Day 5: Aswan
    Day 6: Aswan
    Day 7: Luxor
    Day 8: Luxor

    Available from £1399 based on two adults sharing a Deck 2 Superior French Balcony cabin on an All-Inclusive basis. Price includes flights from London Gatwick airport on the 5th December 2024, and transfers. To find out more about this holiday or to book go to tui.co.uk/river-cruises, visit your local TUI holiday store or download our app.

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    CAPTURING CRITICAL OCEAN CONSERVATION DATA ONBOARD ROYAL CARIBBEAN SHIPS 

    Royal Caribbean Group Strengthening a decades-long commitment to ocean conservation and environmental research efforts. Royal Caribbean Group has announced a four-year extension of its investment in OceanScope, an open-source data program that provides scientists with critical information to study climate and ocean conservation. Collaborating with key program partners including the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, NASA, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the program’s renewal on World Oceans Day builds on over 20 years of groundbreaking ocean and marine life research from Royal Caribbean Group ships.
    OceanScope leverages a unique, comprehensive suite of oceanographic and meteorological instruments, located onboard Royal Caribbean Group ships, that generates continuous, simultaneous collection of the ocean’s vital signs such as the structure of currents, sea surface temperature, carbon dioxide concentrations, and salinity taken along the repetitive ship routes – which allows scientists to monitor changes on scales of seasons, years, and even decades.
    “At Royal Caribbean Group, every day is World Oceans Day – and we are thrilled to renew a program as impactful to oceanic research as OceanScope,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “We’re dedicated to sustaining our planet and delivering the best vacations, responsibly – and our decades-long support of this unique initiative is testament to that. We can’t wait to see how OceanScope, and our scientific collaborators progress our understanding of ocean health and conservation.”
    OceanScope’s open-source database is available to the international scientific research community worldwide. The resulting data products and peer-reviewed research are key to informing ocean and conservation policy.
    Launched in 2002, the program helped verify for the first time that ocean acidification – a reduction in pH over an extended period of time caused primarily by uptake of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere was occurring in the Caribbean Sea but at varying rates. Ocean acidification is detrimental to calcifying organisms such as oysters, clams, sea urchins, shallow water corals, deep sea corals, and calcareous plankton, and an ongoing concern for the entire food web.ADVERTISEMENTExtending OceanScope on Royal Caribbean Group ships helps ensure ongoing monitoring and changes of key ocean and atmospheric processes in critical ecosystems.
    “We are most grateful to renew our successful collaboration with Royal Caribbean Group,” said Dr. Peter Ortner, research professor of marine biology and ecology at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science. “This is an extraordinary example of how private industry, academic research institutions, and government agencies are collaborating to amass an incredibly valuable dataset highlighting the intricate connection between the ocean, atmosphere, and climate.”
    As of 2023, data has been collected from over 100,000 nautical miles sailed from four ships, traveling across the Caribbean Sea, Galapagos, North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. Royal Caribbean International’s Allure of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Flora and Celebrity Equinox are currently providing data to scientists at NOAA, the University of Miami Rosenstiel School, and the community at large. Royal Caribbean Group intends to share the program’s learning to its more than eight million guests annually in an effort to increase ocean literacy.
    “NASA is excited to revive its long-standing partnership with OceanScope, which is a valuable player in the Agency-led efforts to understand Earth climate today, and inform humanity for what waits tomorrow. Looking at Earth’s ocean’s from space and leveraging in situ observations enabled by projects like OceanScope is what allows us to build robust knowledge of ocean’s role in climate, which controls our planet’s heat, energy, and water,” said Dr. Nadya Vinogradova Shiffer, lead of NASA’s Climate Variability and Change Focus Area and program director of the NASA Ocean Physics program at NASA HQ, Washington, D.C.
    “Sustained and systematic operations with automated instruments on a variety of platforms, including this innovative collaboration, is a key to maintaining and strengthening the World Meteorological Organization’s and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission’s Global Ocean Observing System to which NOAA is a major contributor,” said Rik Wanninkhof, a NOAA senior scientist and ocean carbon expert at the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory. “In particular, the CO2, surface temperature and salinity data from Royal Caribbean Group’s ships are major contributors to these ocean observing networks to determine the ocean’s carbon sink strength and ocean acidification.”
    Royal Caribbean Group’s conservation work extends beyond OceanScope, with the company championing a broader commitment to sustaining the planet as part of its SEA the Future platform. Royal Caribbean Group is actively working to decarbonize its business through innovation, collaborative partnerships and a transition to cleaner fuels, smarter technologies, and improved energy efficiencies. Ultimately, the company’s efforts are driving toward – Destination Net Zero – a commitment to reach net-zero by 2050 and to deliver a net-zero emissions cruise ship by 2035.
    To learn more about Royal Caribbean Group’s efforts to sustain our planet, energize communities and accelerate innovation, please visit http://www.royalcaribbeangroup.com/SEAtheFuture.

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    UNWTO AND MSC FOUNDATION TO DELIVER SUSTAINABLE TOURISM EDUCATION AT SEA

    The initiative builds on the success of the first Global Youth Tourism Summit, held in Sorrento, Italy, in 2022, and will see the creation of the MSC Foundation Youth Lab, a specially-equipped venue on the advanced new eco-ship. One of the core programmes to be offered in the Youth Lab will be “GYTS for MSC: A Sustainable Future for Our Next Generations”, designed in close partnership with UNWTO.
    The programme will deliver 12 daily two-hour activity sessions on key subjects ranging from ocean health, recycling and climate change to sustainable tourism and social media, all focused on the “sustainability challenge”. The activities have been designed to leave the youths free to learn, create and express themselves according to their interests and ideas for the future.
    “We are proud to build on the tremendous success of the Global Youth Tourism Summit in Sorrento by extending our partnership with UNWTO to promote youth empowerment and sustainability education,” commented MSC Foundation Executive Director Daniela Picco. “The new MSC Foundation Lab on MSC Euribia will offer an innovative venue for children and teenagers to engage in sustainability-focused activities. Our new custom-designed programme ‘GYTS for MSC: A Sustainable Future for Our Next Generations’ has been specially conceived to empower young people to learn, create, and express themselves while addressing key sustainability issues such as marine conservation, climate change and responsible tourism. By making our young guests the centre of these activities, we aim to raise awareness of the challenges facing humanity and equip our next generations with the tools they need to create a better world.”
    Alessandra Priante, Director of the Regional Department for Europe at UNWTO added: “After the immense success of our first Global Youth Tourism Summit, which brought together children from every corner of the world, we are very excited that GYTS will not only go across borders but also across the seas and oceans. We are grateful to the MSC Foundation for their continued support in highlighting the central role that youth can play in building a sustainable tourism of the future. We are proud to support MSC as they continue to educate and empower children and youth to become more conscious, committed and engaged.”
    The MSC Group is committed to taking comprehensive action through the MSC Foundation to raise awareness of the big challenges facing humanity and to provide its young MSC Cruises guests with tools that inform and motivate through an understanding of its programmes and initiatives across four focus areas: the Environment (including marine conservation), Education, Community Support and Emergency Relief. This includes inviting young cruise guests to become Junior Ambassadors of the Foundation and running dedicated activities that equip them to voice the right of our younger generations to live in a better world.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Disney Cruise Line Announces Inaugural Sailings to New Island Destination

    Disney Cruise Line announced today the inaugural dates and select itineraries for its new island destination in The Bahamas, headlining a season full of new and guest-favorite itineraries around the world in summer 2024. Along with the first sailings to Lighthouse Point, families will be able to choose magical vacations to bucket-list destinations that include the Mediterranean, northern Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean.
    “We are delighted to take families to new places during the summer 2024 season, including our newest island destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “We’re also thrilled to return to Europe with new ports of call and offer exciting adventures to Alaska and the Caribbean. All of these Disney Cruise Line sailings provide the unique experiences that our guests have come to expect from Disney, from world-class dining and dazzling entertainment to character encounters and legendary guest service.”
    Bookings open to the public March 30, 2023. For more details, visit the Summer 2024 itineraries page of disneycruise.com. https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/featured/2024-summer-itineraries/
    First Sailings to Lighthouse PointIn June 2024, Disney Cruise Line will debut its newest Bahamian destination on the island of Eleuthera at Lighthouse Point. Guests sailing aboard the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will discover a vibrant beach retreat designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.
    A seven-night inaugural sailing aboard the Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral, Florida, on June 8 will allow guests to be among the first to make a splash in the crystal-clear waters of this new destination at Lighthouse Point. This ultimate Disney Cruise Line island destination itinerary will feature two stops at Lighthouse Point and one day at Castaway Cay. On June 6, a three-night preview cruise on the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale will offer a sneak peek of Lighthouse Point with limited access to some areas.ADVERTISEMENTFollowing the inaugural voyage, Lighthouse Point will be a featured port of call on select three-, four- and five-night sailings to The Bahamas and Caribbean on the Disney Magic out of Fort Lauderdale. These itineraries will vary stops between Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, with five special departures including both Disney Cruise Line island destinations.
    New European DestinationsDreams will come to life for Disney Cruise Line guests in summer 2024 as the Disney Dream returns to premier European destinations in the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, British Isles and popular locales in the Norwegian Fjords and Iceland.
    These sailings will feature a number of new ports of call, including Valencia, Spain; Haugesund, Norway; and Hamburg, Germany, along with three Mediterranean destinations that will return for the first time since 2014: Catania, Italy; Kusadasi, Turkey; and Valletta, Malta.
    Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises from Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome) will range from five to 11 nights, while northern Europe and British Isles sailings will offer itineraries anywhere from three nights to one 12-night voyage that includes the Norwegian fjords, three days in Iceland and an overnight stay in Reykjavik.
    Adventures in AlaskaCruises to Alaska from Vancouver, Canada, will return on the Disney Wonder from May through September 2024, offering more chances for families to experience the natural splendor and adventure of “The Last Frontier” with five-, seven- and nine-night sailings. Majestic wildlife and stunning scenery in iconic places like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap will blend with Disney’s world-class entertainment, dining and guest service to create a family-friendly vacation that celebrates the spirit of Alaska both on land and on board.
    Tropical Escapes to The Bahamas and Caribbean from Port CanaveralThe Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will travel to sun-kissed islands throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean in summer 2024. All sailings on these Port Canaveral-based ships will feature a visit to Castaway Cay, a picturesque private island oasis in The Bahamas that offers something for everyone in the family, from fun and relaxation to adventurous water activities.
    The Disney Wish will feature three- and four-night Bahamian vacations, while the Disney Fantasy will sail to popular ports in the eastern and western Caribbean on seven-night cruises. One five-night Disney Fantasy voyage in July will take families to Nassau with two stops in Castaway Cay, while a special 10-night southern Caribbean sailing will give families another opportunity to visit Lighthouse Point with additional visits to the islands of Antigua, St. Lucia, Dominica, Tortola and Castaway Cay.
    To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, visit disneycruise.com.

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    COSTA PRESENTS C|CLUB 2023 CRUISES

    Costa Cruises presents the C|Club 2023 cruises, two unique event-cruises with a programme of activities designed exclusively for members of the Italian company’s loyalty programme.These two cruises are already special from the itineraries: fourteen days on board of Costa Favolosa in June discovering the most beautiful destinations in Norway, to the legendary Lofoten Islands, illuminated by the midnight sun, and in September among the colours, scents and flavours of Tunisia and Morocco. The first departure is scheduled for 25 June, the second for 23 September 2023.
    The programme of activities for C|Club members includes exclusive gastronomic experiences, new excursions, shows, themed parties, surprises, as well as special guests.
    On the first of the two cruises, bound for Norway, chefs Bruno Barbieri and Ángel León, who together with Hélène Darroze sign Costa Cruises’ gastronomic excellence, will be on board the Costa Favolosa, starring in show cooking and demonstrations, with dishes never offered before. In particular, Ángel León will focus on cuisine linked to the sea, while Bruno Barbieri on how to propose a more sustainable cuisine, avoiding waste. Other taste-related events will be dedicated to specific on-board gastronomic proposals and the discovery of local culinary traditions.
    Every evening there will be a party on board, with great shows and performances by internationally renowned artists. For example, the dIRE sTRATO cover band will offer a musical journey through the atmosphere and sound of the legendary British rock band Dire Straits.  Then, the cruise will propose theme parties and fun competitions between guests.
    The itinerary of this first C|Club cruise heads north to discover the wonders of Norway: spectacular fjords, villages nestled between green mountains and blue sea, and the picturesque Lofoten Islands. Beautiful destinations, illuminated by the unique phenomenon of the midnight sun, when the light never sets. To discover the traditions of these locations and experience them like a true “local”, new shore excursions have been specially designed. And on board, a travel expert will reveal to guests many curiosities and anecdotes to “taste” each visit.The experiences that will be offered to C|Club members are truly unique: in Stavanger the most inaccessible fjords can be explored by speedboat; Lofoten can be discovered by kayak in the evening, with the sun still high; from Åndalsnes one can choose a tour to an alpine hut to taste typical Norwegian products; in Trondheim it can be experienced a “Viking’s day”.ADVERTISEMENTThe programme of C|Club 2023 cruises on board of Costa Favolosa will be further enriched with surprises, new activities and exceptional guests. In particular, the second of the two cruises, in September, will set off to discover the most beautiful and characteristic cities of the western Mediterranean, with two unmissable destinations, Morocco and Tunisia, for a real journey of the senses. Among the planned calls are Tunis, Tangier, and Casablanca, which – with a call of a day and a half – will lead to Marrakech. And then Cartagena, Malaga, Cadiz, Barcelona, Marseilles, Savona, Civitavecchia/Rome, and Palermo, among cities of art, ancient ruins, beaches, colourful markets, traditions, and spicy flavours.
    To stay up-to-date on C|Club 2023 cruises, just visit the Costa Cruises websites. Bookings are available in travel agencies or also through the Costa Cruises websites. To participate in the members-only programme, all you need to do is register for the C|Club before making your reservation, via a special section of the Costa Cruises websites.
    Costa Favolosa C|CLUB 2023 Itinerary – 25 June 2023Ijumiden (The Netherlands), navigation, Stavanger (Norway), Molde (Norway), Andalsnes (Norway), sailing, Bodo (Norway), Narvik (Norway), Leknes (Norway) with one-and-a-half day call, navigation, Trondheim (Norway), Maloy (Norway), sailing, Bremerhaven (Germany), Ijumiden (The Netherlands).
    Costa Favolosa C|CLUB 2023 Itinerary – 23 September 2023Savona (Italy), Civitavecchia/Rome (Italy), Palermo (Italy), Tunis, navigation, Cartagena (Spain), Tangier (Morocco), Casablanca (Morocco) with one and a half day call, Cadiz (Spain), Malaga (Spain), navigation, Barcelona (Spain), Marseille (France), Savona (Italy).

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