Venice Fatality Fuels Controversy

The controversy in Venice began when environmentalists claimed large cruise ships were causing erosion of the city's precious soil — and it is precious. This sounded like a story with some merit. The criticism escalated when the same committee claimed large cruise ships were traveling dangerously close to small vessels in the lagoon while going… Continue reading Venice Fatality Fuels Controversy

David Frost's Legacy for Interviewers

Think about this: In moments when he may have contemplated his demise, do you think Sir David Frost could ever have imagined that one in a continuous line of the British prime ministers he'd interviewed would send a "tweet of condolence" upon hearing of Frost's death? It is a measure of the great journalist's storied… Continue reading David Frost's Legacy for Interviewers

L.A. — More than a Celebrity Stop

They say it's hard to believe that a city the size of greater Los Angeles (12-plus million) doesn't have an NFL team that calls it home. It's also hard to believe that a cruise line called "Celebrity" has never had a major presencein the City of Angels and movie stars until now.  As people who… Continue reading L.A. — More than a Celebrity Stop

MacGregor's Crane a Delayed Reaction

In April, Royal Caribbean unveiled the first of its next generation of ships, the impressive Quantum of the Seas, in a splashy news conference in New York City. The attraction that captivated the audience was the North Star, a pod that will take passengers up and out over the side of the ship. If Quantum… Continue reading MacGregor's Crane a Delayed Reaction

Cruise Passengers Ignore 'N' Word

It's a toss-up, as to which are the two most toxic words on television this week. Edward Snowden…or Paula Deen. Countries are trying to decide what to do with him…sponsors are trying to decide what to do with her. Meanwhile, only Paula Deen is connected to the cruise world, and the early feedback from cruisers… Continue reading Cruise Passengers Ignore 'N' Word