Cruise Art Auctions…Really?

Many of the cruise ships we have frequented have had extensive displays of artwork, lining the walls of the ship and enticing passengers to attend an auction — with free champagne — so they can take home a souvenir of their cruise. It’s a concept that’s always left us colder than sitting by the pool… Continue reading Cruise Art Auctions…Really?

Barcelona's Cruise Ship Bonanza

For months, we’ve been hearing about how European countries are on the verge of bankruptcy…first Greece, then Ireland, Spain, Portugal and even Italy. While it’s not exactly a bailout, cruising is giving Spain a shot in the arm, at least this week. Last Saturday, eight cruise ships delivered 31,000 passengers to Barcelona. This weekend, nine… Continue reading Barcelona's Cruise Ship Bonanza

Marathoner's Plan for Princess

My more-than-capable colleague (and wife of many years) slipped me an unusual cruise story yesterday. It’s about a man and a marathon…actually, a man and many marathons, the latest of which he may be running as we speak, somewhere on the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This is not a man who can run on… Continue reading Marathoner's Plan for Princess

Norwegian: Time for The Haven

Now that privacy is clearly for sale on cruise lines, we’re starting to see just how popular it is. Take Norwegian, for example. It is changing the name of its private quarters from “Courtyard” to “The Haven” in advance of rolling out the new brand on its new ships, due in 2013 and 2014. Now,… Continue reading Norwegian: Time for The Haven

Cruising Upgrade for Irene?

Maybe it’s time for a new name. Maybe “Hurricane” Season should be called “Tropical Storm” Season — at least by the cruise community. The name change that could take place today is all about Irene. Weather experts could be saying “Goodnight Irene” to the ninth tropical storm to get a name this year, and change… Continue reading Cruising Upgrade for Irene?