NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL #SEATWEETUP CRUISE ON NORWEGIAN SKY

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL #SEATWEETUP
CRUISE ON NORWEGIAN SKY

Norwegian Cruise Line will host the second annual #SeaTweetup cruise on board Norwegian Sky from October 12-15, 2012. The social media infused sailing departs from Miami and will set sail on a weekend getaway to the Bahamas, visiting Nassau, Bahamas and Norwegian’s Private Island, Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. The interactive cruise, coordinated by influential members of the South Florida social media community, allows enthusiasts to participate in special networking events throughout the cruise including group activities, social media marketing panels and discussions, giveaways and cocktail parties. Guests will also be amongst the first to experience the exciting new enhancements to Norwegian’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

The three-day cruise takes networking to the next level allowing social media insiders to share their experiences with followers, as they build and strengthen relationships, as well as create new ones. Participants will have access to the ship’s Internet Café and Wi-Fi network, as well as invitations to in-port events to post, tweet, and blog throughout the weekend to the twitter hashtag #SeaTweetup.

In addition to planned group activities, guests can enjoy the weekend at their leisure with the perks of Norwegian’s exclusive Freestyle Cruising. The 2,002-passenger Norwegian Sky sets sail year round from Miami to the Bahamas and has 10 dining options; more than 10 bars and lounges; a spa and fitness center; casino; and duty-free retail shops. For more information and to connect with other participants, follow @SeaTweetup and Norwegian (@CruiseNorwegian) on Twitter and include hashtag #SeaTweetup. Rates for the #SeaTweetup start at $264 per person.

About the #SeaTweetup
The first ever #SeaTweetup cruise took place on board Norwegian Sky from November 18-21, 2011. More than 45 social media enthusiasts came together to share and learn social media tips, tricks and best practices. The one-of-a-kind cruise allows attendees to enjoy a relaxed three-day getaway to the Bahamas while building lasting personal and business relationships. The planning committee includes members of the South Florida social media community including Soul Of Miami (@SoulofMiami), Cruise Source (@CruiseSource), Social Buzz TV (@socialbuzztv), Jeff Cohen (@iamJeffCohen), Social Esquire (@socialesquire), Aubrey Swanson (@AUBOOMmedia).

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For more information on Norwegian Cruise Lines or to book, please contact Triton Cape Sea Travel on: 021 443 9030 or email on info.nclsa@galileosa.co.za

Norwegian Cruise Lines: Dash Sale: 24 to 27 July 2012: Upgrades, Onboard Spend and E-Coupon Discount Booklet

Norwegian Cruise Lines: Dash Sale: 24 to 27 July 2012: Upgrades, Onboard Spend and E-Coupon Discount Booklet

UP TO 4-CATEGORY UPGRADES
Book your 2013-2015 vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line now and you'll receive a free upgrade. It's that simple. That's every ship (including the brand new Norwegian Breakaway) and every destination. Just book your cruise between July 9 and August 12, 2012, and remember, the sooner you book, the better your upgrade.

AND THERE'S MORE
Book now and you also receive a 50% reduced deposit and over $300* in onboard e-coupons. It's the best vacation ever for the best value ever aboard Norwegian. Plus, book any cruise between July 24 and July 27 and get up to $250 to spend onboard.

SPECIAL FARES:

Norwegian Jade, Eastern Mediterranean, 2 January 2013, 10 Nights

Inside Cabin, IX Grade with Free Upgrade to IF Grade, Inside CabinUSD570 per person sharing
Inside Cabin, IE Grade with Free Upgrade to IA Grade, Inside CabinUSD580 per person sharing
Inside Cabin, I1 Grade with Free Upgrade to OK Grade, Outside Cabin (Obstructed View)USD630 per person sharing
Outside Cabin, OG Grade USD680 per person sharing
Outside Cabin, OF Grade with Free Upgrade to OB Grade, Outside CabinUSD690 per person sharing
Outside Cabin, OA Grade USD750 per person sharing
Outside Cabin, O1 Grade with Free Upgrade to BD Grade, Balcony CabinUSD900 per person sharing

Civitavecchia (Rome), Katakolon, Piraeus, Izmir, Alexandria (Overnight), Civitavecchia (Rome)

Norwegian Spirit, Canary Islands, 8 January 2013, 9 Nights

Inside Cabin, IX Grade with Free Upgrade to IF Grade, Inside CabinUSD725 per person sharing
Inside Cabin, IE Grade with Free Upgrade to IA Grade, Inside CabinUSD745 per person sharing
Inside Cabin, I2 GradeUSD785 per person sharing
Inside Cabin, I1 Grade with Free Upgrade to OG Grade, Outside Cabin USD795 per person sharing
Outside Cabin, OF Grade with Free Upgrade to OB Grade, Outside CabinUSD835 per person sharing
Outside Cabin, OA Grade USD875 per person sharing
Outside Cabin, O1 Grade with Free Upgrade to BD Grade, Balcony CabinUSD905 per person sharing

Barcelona, Funchal (Madeira), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Arrecife, Malaga, Barcelona

All fares include Port Charges and Government Fees.
Fares, Onboard Credit and Upgrades are subject to availability at the time of booking, are capacity controlled and can change or be withdrawn at any time and without notice. Terms and Conditions apply.

NORWEGIAN’S CRUISE EVENT OFFER OFFERS GUESTS ADDITIONAL PERKS

NORWEGIAN’S CRUISE EVENT OFFER OFFERS GUESTS ADDITIONAL PERKS

Receive on-board amenities based on stateroom category booked

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its “Cruise Event” limited time offer on Sunday, July 15, 2012 giving guests the opportunity to earn additional on-board amenities when they book a new cruise vacation in 2012 to one of Norwegian’s popular destinations, including Europe, Alaska, Bermuda, Hawaii, Bahamas & Florida, the Caribbean, Canada & New England and more. Guests will receive a variety of exciting on-board amenities based on stateroom category booked, plus reduced deposits, when they book any 2012 five-day or longer Norwegian Cruise vacation by Sunday, July 21, 2012.

As part of this limited time offer, guests receive perks based on stateroom category booked. Solo travelers who book a studio stateroom on board Norwegian Epic, or those who book any inside stateroom will receive a bottle of wine in their stateroom to toast to their vacation. Guests who sail in an ocean view stateroom will receive a bottle of wine, plus a plate of decadent chocolate covered strawberries. Balcony guests will also receive a bottle of wine and chocolate covered strawberries, along with a complimentary dinner for two in Norwegian’s signature Italian restaurant. Mini-suite guests will enjoy all of the amenities received by those in a balcony stateroom, plus an additional dinner for two at Cagney’s Steakhouse, a guest favorite specialty restaurant, located on every Norwegian ship. Suite guests will receive all of the amenities entitled to guests sailing in a mini-suite, plus an additional $50 spa credit to use towards any pampering treatment in the Mandara Spas on board.

Guests who set sail in Norwegian’s luxurious suite complex, The Haven, available on board Norwegian Epic, Gem, Pearl, Jewel or Jade, will enjoy all of the amenities received by suite guests, plus dinner for two in Norwegian’s signature French restaurant, Le Bistro, and an additional $75 dollar on board credit to use towards another relaxing spa treatment, exciting shore excursions, dinner in another specialty restaurant or towards beverages in one of the many bars and lounges on board.

For more information contact Triton Cape Sea Travel on 021 4439030 or info.nclsa@galileosa.co.za

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE LAUNCHES THE GREAT UPGRADE EVENT

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE LAUNCHES THE GREAT UPGRADE EVENT

Receive free upgrades and reduced deposits on all 2013 and 2014 sailings Norwegian Cruise Line is offering guests the opportunity to receive free stateroom upgrades during “The Great Upgrade Event” starting today, Monday, July 9. Vacationers planning to set sail on any three-day or longer cruise vacation in 2013 or 2014 will receive an up to four category stateroom upgrade and reduced deposits on sailings to Alaska, the Bahamas & Florida, Bermuda, Caribbean, Canada & New England, Europe, Hawaii and the Mexican Riviera, when they book before August 12, 2012. In addition, those who take advantage of the offer will receive e-coupons worth up to $300 in on board savings.

Norwegian offers many exciting new cruise options during the 2013 and 2014 seasons, including the launch of Norwegian Breakaway. Departing from New York City on seven-day cruises to Bermuda beginning May 12, 2013, the ship will spend three full days in Bermuda, along with three days at sea giving guests the opportunity to experience all of the innovative public areas, exciting entertainment and incredible dining that will be found on board the line’s newest ship. Following her Bermuda season, Norwegian Breakaway will set sail on seven-day cruises from New York City to the Bahamas & Florida between October 13, 2013 and April 27, 2014.

With six ships sailing to the Caribbean and Bahamas & Florida from four different US homeports: Miami, New Orleans, Tampa and New York; there is no shortage of fun in the sun on Norwegian. Guests will enjoy free stateroom upgrades on Norwegian Epic, sailing seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises from Miami between November 2, 2013 and April 19, 2014; seven-day Western Caribbean cruises on board Norwegian Pearl between October 20, 2013 and April 13, 2014; or 10 or 11-day Southern Caribbean cruises on board Norwegian Sun, from October 9, 2013 through April 16, 2014.

In an exciting first for the line, Norwegian Jewel will be the first Jewel-class ship to homeport in New Orleans, starting October 13, 2013, offering seven-day cruises to the Western Caribbean. Norwegian Dawn will return to Tampa for seven-day Western Caribbean sailings between November 17, 2013 and April 20, 2014.

Norwegian Gem will continue sailing from New York year-round offering seven-day Bahamas & Florida cruises between April 27, 2013 and September 7, 2013. Guests looking to sail through the Panama Canal can sail on 14-day cruises one-way from Los Angeles or Miami on board Norwegian Star from October 13, 2013 through February 16, 2014.

Norwegian Star will also offer seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises from Los Angeles on December 22 and 29, 2013 and from March 2, 2014 through April 13, 2014. For fall foliage viewing at its best, Norwegian Dawn will sail four Canada & New England itineraries between Boston and Quebec between September 13 and October 4, 2013. Norwegian Gem also offers a series of five seven-day Canada & New England cruises from New York between September 9 and October 12, 2013. For the perfect Hawaii vacation, guests can inter-island hop on board Pride of America, year-round on a seven-day cruise from Honolulu enjoying over 100 hours in port, and a sail past the scenic Na Pali Coast.

Now is also the perfect time to start planning a summer vacation in 2013. Guests can look forward to spending next summer cruising through Alaska on a seven-day cruise on board Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Jewel or Norwegian Sun or through Europe on Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Jade or Norwegian Spirit.

For more information, please contact Triton Cape Sea Travel on 021 4439030

BROADWAY’S “ROCK OF AGES” TO HEADLINE NORWEGIAN BREAKAWAY’S ENTERTAINMENT

Entertainment Rocks on New York’s Newest and Biggest Cruise Ship with
Three Broadway Shows and More

NEW YORK – June 28, 2012 – Norwegian Cruise Line continued its legacy of innovating cruise ship entertainment as it announced that the five-time Tony Award nominated musical ROCK OF AGES will be featured on Norwegian Breakaway, along with two additional Broadway shows: the dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR and CIRQUE DREAMS & DINNER JUNGLE FANTASY. The line also introduced all of the varied and exciting entertainment acts and venues that will debut on the ship, including the famed comedy troupe The Second City and Howl at the Moon at Headliners Comedy Club and New York’s own Slam Allen in Fat Cats Jazz & Blues Club.

“As a lifelong New Yorker, it’s critically important to me that Norwegian Breakaway becomes New York’s ship – the only way to cruise from New York when she arrives next May. Our goal is to bring elements of New York on board so that guests will feel a real connection to the ship as New York’s true flagship,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “With ROCK OF AGES performing in the Breakaway Theater, along with BURN THE FLOOR, CIRQUE DREAMS & DINNER JUNGLE FANTASY in the Spiegel Tent, and all the other entertainment offerings, we are truly bringing Broadway to the high seas and delivering the high caliber entertainment that New Yorkers have come to expect.”

ROCK OF AGES is one of the longest running shows in Broadway history and offers Broadway’s best party. The New York Times has called the show, “Absurdly enjoyable! About as guilty as pleasures get!” The classic rock love story of the decade features such feel-good, sing-out-loud songs such as “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” “I Wanna Know What Love Is,” “Here I Go Again,” “Don’t Stop Believin,” and more. The Broadway show is now also Hollywood’s biggest party as the film of the musical by New Line Cinema was released on June 15, 2012.

In addition to being a bona fide Broadway hit musical, ROCK OF AGES was a runaway success in Toronto and Australia; has a production running in London’s West End; and has several successful licensed productions in Asia.
ROCK OF AGES is lead produced on Broadway by Michael Cohl and Jonathan Linden of S2BN Entertainment and Matthew Weaver. Norwegian Breakaway will feature multiple, specially-designed entertainment venues throughout the ship so that guests can choose from a wide variety of entertainment each evening of their cruise with choices to appeal to a broad audience.

BURN THE FLOOR
Offering shows in both the 800-seat Breakaway Theater and more intimate performances in The Manhattan Room, dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR will dazzle guests with their re-invented ballroom dancing.
Beginning with, and maintaining all the wonderful traditions and the social history of the Ballroom dance art form, BURN THE FLOOR is a groundbreaking show, serving as a melting pot of styles, energy and excitement for today’s generation of dancers. It is Ballroom “supercharged.”
During the course of the show, the dancers perform all the Ballroom and Latin styles, including The Waltz, Cha Cha, Samba, Salsa, Rumba, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Mambo, Tango, Swing, Jive, Lindy Hop, Viennese Waltz, and Paso Doble. The music is eclectic, from Swing and Waltz classics to J-Lo and Credence Clearwater. Two vocalists perform in many languages during the show, including English, Spanish and Portuguese.

The show premiered in London in 1999 and toured the US for the first time in 2000, including performances at Radio City Music Hall. After touring around the world, in a variety of countries, including Japan, Singapore and Australia, BURN THE FLOOR premiered on Broadway in 2009. Originally intended to be a limited run, the show opened to rave reviews in New York and extended its original run into January 2010, performing 193 shows. Already staged in more than 300 cities globally, BURN THE FLOOR is currently in the midst of its World Tour of the Broadway Production with dates in Holland, Australia, South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea and Japan, and will return to the US later this year before joining Norwegian Breakaway in 2013.

CIRQUE DREAMS & DINNER -- JUNGLE FANTASY IN THE SPIEGEL TENT
Following the huge success of the revolutionary CIRQUE DREAMS & DINNER on Norwegian Epic, famed producer/director Neil Goldberg will present an adaptation of the Broadway show CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY featuring the best of both critically acclaimed productions. The new show will be entitled CIRQUE DREAMS & DINNER – JUNGLE FANTASY and will perform in the ship’s intimate Spiegel Tent.
Proclaimed “the grandest circus spectacle east of Vegas” by New York Magazine, CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY debuted at the Broadway Theatre in 2008 and is, to date, the first and only show of its kind to ever perform on Broadway. The show received an American Theatre Wing, Best Costume Design nomination and has played to over 3.5 million people in more than 200 cities throughout the United States, as well as thousands of U.S. military troops and their families throughout 10 countries.

CIRQUE DREAMS & DINNER - JUNGLE FANTASY will feature an international cast of Cirque Dreamers performing amazing feats while bringing to life a soaring Ballet of Butterflies, Flipping Monkeys, Hopping Frogs, Spine-bending Lizards and Fanciful Birds in an exotic, awe-inspiring adventure.

FAT CATS JAZZ & BLUES CLUB FEATURING SLAM ALLEN
Following his extremely popular performance as the house band in the Jazz & Blues Club on Norwegian Epic, New York’s own Slam Allen will take the stage in Fat Cats Jazz & Blues Club on Norwegian Breakaway. Fat Cats will feature nightly live blues and jazz performances by Allen and other world-class talent. The urban setting creates a hipster vibe complete with full bar and comfortable leather sofas and chairs. Fat Cats will also feature outdoor seating on The Waterfront, a Norwegian Breakaway exclusive, where guests can enjoy a drink and the live music while feeling the warm ocean breeze.

For more than 20 years, Slam Allen has been entertaining audiences around the world with his unique blend of soul and blues. For the past eight years, he has played an important role, as the lead singer and guitarist, in the legendary James Cotton Band. Music is in Allen's blood -- he got his start from his father and uncles who were known as the Allen Brothers Band. On Norwegian Breakaway, Allen will play a wide range of songs from B.B. King and Otis Redding to his own original music in the intimate Fat Cats Jazz & Blues Club.

THE SECOND CITY AND HOWL AT THE MOON IN HEADLINERS

Headliners Comedy Club debuts on Norwegian Breakaway with the hilarious improvisational comedy of The Second City, as Norwegian continues its exclusive partnership with the famed troupe. For more than 50 years, The Second City has honed the skills of comedic legends such as Bill Murray, Chris Farley, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Gilda Radner, John Belushi, Tina Fey, Steve Carell and Jason Sudeikis. The ensemble aboard Norwegian Breakaway will perform a special customized comedy revue of satirical skits, hilarious songs and inventive improvisation. The venue’s design centers on a show lounge format with a small raised stage, concrete floors and brick walls with a full bar.

The world’s greatest rock n’ roll dueling piano show, Howl at the Moon, which received rave reviews on Norwegian Epic, will also be featured in Headliners on board Norwegian Breakaway. This total entertainment experience features talented piano players who not only entertain the guests; they make the guests part of the show. The fun is centered around two baby grand pianos and a full out rock show with Howl’s entertainers playing the best music from 70’s rock to hip-hop for four hours per show. Howl at the Moon, with multiple locations across the United States, encourages people to channel their inner rock star, so guests should get ready to clap, sing, dance and howl.

The 4,000 passenger Norwegian Breakaway will arrive in her year-round homeport of New York City in early May 2013. The ship will begin weekly summer seven-day cruises to Bermuda on Sunday, May 12, 2013. From October 2013 through April 2014, the ship will offer voyages from the heart of Manhattan to the Bahamas & Florida and the Southern Caribbean.

Norwegian Breakaway will be the largest ship ever to home port in New York City and will embark on weekly cruises from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal. The ship calls will bring an estimated 140,000 additional embarking passengers into New York City over two years, resulting in an estimated $35 million in additional direct spending in the City.

To date, the company has revealed the ship’s groundbreaking design, including The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place, a wide range of indoor and outdoor venues on three dynamic decks that will create a whole new complex at sea that enhances guests’ connection with the ocean. The top decks of Norwegian Breakaway will feature the first Aqua Park at sea with five full-size water slides, including twin Free Fall slides, the first ever at sea, and a three-story sports complex that includes the largest ropes course at sea, a nine-hole miniature golf course, basketball court, rock climbing wall and more.

The ship will also feature a rich mix of stateroom options including The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 Suites at the top of the ship and 18 additional Suites located throughout the ship; the innovative Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; the re-introduction of Oceanview staterooms, Balcony and Mini-Suites; along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa.

About Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator in cruise travel with a 45-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising which has revolutionized the industry by allowing guests more freedom and flexibility.

Today, Norwegian invites consumers to “Cruise Like a Norwegian” on one of its 11 purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on some of the newest and most contemporary ships at sea. The Company has two 4,000-passenger vessels, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, on order for delivery in April 2013 and early 2014.

Norwegian’s largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, debuted in June 2010 and has been named “Best Overall Cruise Ship” by the readers of Travel Weekly. Norwegian Cruise Line is the official cruise line of Blue Man Group, appearing for the first time at sea on Norwegian Epic, as well as the official cruise line of Legends in Concert, The Second City®, Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos, and Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids. Cirque Dreams™ & Dinner is also featured on board Norwegian Epic as the first show of its kind at sea under a big top.

CELEBRITY CHEF GEOFFREY ZAKARIAN TO DEBUT FIRST AT-SEA DINING CONCEPT ON NORWEGIAN BREAKAWAY

Iron Chef Zakarian set to open his next restaurant, Ocean Blue, on the largest ship to home port in New York Harbor

NEW YORK – June 28, 2012 – Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that it has engaged celebrity chef and Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian to create and oversee a seafood concept to open May 2013 on the line’s newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway.

The restaurant, Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian, is envisioned as a luxury seafood dining experience, utilizing all of the ingredients and techniques that Zakarian would employ in a land-based establishment. In addition to the dining room that will focus on elegant modern presentations, Zakarian will have The Raw Bar, an adjacent bar highlighting crustaceans and wines by the glass; and Ocean Blue on The Waterfront, a more casual dining option serving fun and easy fare. With an eye for detail, Zakarian will orchestrate not only the menus, but every aspect of his dining areas, from the uniforms to the glassware. On select sailings, Zakarian will also host meet-and-greets with Norwegian Breakaway guests, along with in-person cooking demonstrations and intimate cooking experiences for smaller groups.

“It is an unbelievably exciting prospect to create a concept for such a groundbreaking ship. I am nostalgic at heart, so the thought of making a modern experience that harkens to the age of steamship travel is just terrific,” said Geoffrey Zakarian. “I am planning, preparing and recruiting for this restaurant the same as if I were opening on land, and truly, I have been humbled and inspired by Norwegian's vision to elevate hospitality on the seas.”

Zakarian's taste, style and passion for fine cuisine have defined his career, which has spanned more than 25 years. An accomplished chef who has presided over some of the country's top kitchens, he currently has two popular restaurants in New York City – The Lambs Club and The National; one in Atlantic City – The Water Club at Borgata; and a highly acclaimed cookbook “Geoffrey Zakarian’s Town/Country: 150 Recipes for Life Around the Table.” Zakarian emerged victorious in the recent fourth season of Food Network's The Next Iron Chef, Super Chefs. He appears regularly on Iron Chef America, demonstrating a razor-sharp knowledge of culinary techniques in this fast-paced cooking competition. When he's not battling in the kitchen stadium, Zakarian stays busy filming CHOPPED, where he is featured as a recurring judge, and highlights his favorite dishes on The Best Thing I Ever Ate.

“Geoffrey Zakarian is a renowned and critically acclaimed chef who has deep roots in New York City having begun his career at Le Cirque and the legendary 21 Club,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “Working with Geoffrey is like hitting the culinary lottery. In this case, not only do we win big, but so do our guests on Norwegian Breakaway who will get to experience his world-class cuisine in three dining outlets on the ship. We couldn’t be more excited to have Geoffrey on board with us and add yet another New York element to Norwegian Breakaway.”

Currently under construction at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Breakaway will arrive in her year-round homeport of New York City in early May 2013. The ship will begin weekly summer seven-day cruises to Bermuda on Sunday, May 12, 2013. From October 2013 through April 2014, the ship will offer voyages from the heart of Manhattan to the Bahamas & Florida and the Southern Caribbean.

Norwegian Breakaway will be the largest ship ever to home port in New York City and will embark on weekly cruises from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal. The ship calls will bring an estimated 140,000 additional embarking passengers into New York City over two years, resulting in an estimated $35 million in additional direct spending in the City.

About Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator in cruise travel with a 45-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising which has revolutionized the industry by allowing guests more freedom and flexibility.

Today, Norwegian invites consumers to “Cruise Like a Norwegian” on one of its 11purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on some of the newest and most contemporary ships at sea. The Company has two 4,000-passenger vessels, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, on order for delivery in April 2013 and early 2014.

Norwegian’s largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, debuted in June 2010 and has been named “Best Overall Cruise Ship” by the readers of Travel Weekly. Norwegian Cruise Line is the official cruise line of Blue Man Group, appearing for the first time at sea on Norwegian Epic, as well as the official cruise line of Legends in Concert, The Second City®, Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos, and Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids. Cirque Dreams™ & Dinner is also featured on board Norwegian Epic as the first show of its kind at sea under a big top.

THE GRAND TOUR


Two week cruise with Voyages to Antiquity visiting

Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, and France

26 May/09 June 2012



Just pretend for a while that you are living in the 17th or 18th century and have a fabulous opportunity to learn about the art and culture of Italy and France and other ancient civilisations in the most relaxed and enjoyable way, without any of the inconveniences of that bygone era.



This is what more than 300 passengers did on the Aegean Odyssey during May and June 2012.



The itinerary comprised

Italy:- Venice, Ravenna, Taormina, (cruising past Stromboli) Sorrento, Rome, Florence

Croatia:- Split, Trogir (cruising past Brac, Hvar and Korcula)

Montenegro:- a 3-hour cruise around Kotor Bay

Greece:- Corfu

France:- Marseilles, Avignon, Arles, Cannes (Nice/Monaco) or (Grasse/Vence)



ITALY – Venice (Bride of the Sea)



Saturday morning arrival on a sunny day with freedom to explore the city before the rest of the guests arrived on the Aegean Odyssey. This lovely medium sized ship was docked at San Basilio in the Dorsoduro district of Venice on the banks of the Giudecca Canal. My intention was to stroll leisurely around the districts of Dorsoduro and San Marco before making my way to Castello district for a family lunch appointment at “Osteria alle Testiere” – a small 5 star restaurant of great repute, specialising in fish dishes. Needless to say I got terribly lost even trying to cross the Grand Canal, but luckily made lunch on time – and it was really worth it. Castello district reaches almost to the Rialto Bridge – the area with the greatest concentration of Veneto-Byzantine palaces, and was formerly one of the most important financial centres in Europe.



A sunny Sunday morning – It was also the day of the ‘Vegalonga’ – a regatta held between St Mark’s Piazza and Murano on the last Sunday in May. It would have been a different story if this regatta had taken place on 12 June, as on that day a very rare tornado ploughed through Venice tearing off roofs, ripping up trees and smashing gondolas.

Because of the regatta, we had an early morning lecture given by local resident, Gregory Dowling on ‘Life in contemporary Venice’, followed by late morning visits to St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and an afternoon optional tour to see the Tintoretto paintings at San Rocco, and works by Titian and Bellini at Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari (church of the Friars). These day time tours were given a miss by me, as I had recently seen the same not so long ago.

Instead there was another family lunch – this time in a delightful local walled garden pizzeria (which offered much more than pizza) called “Al Profeta” located at Calle Lunga San Barnaba in Dorsoduro.

However, the highlight of the day was an evening trip by water taxi to St Mark’s Square to experience a private exclusive viewing of St Mark’s Basilica with all the lights blazing - illuminating the gold decorations, the marbles and porphyry, incredible paintings and thousands of square feet of magnificent mosaics – many of which contained optical games, or depicted animals and birds. St Mark’s body was rescued from infidel hands by being concealed in a basket of pork (no less) and brought to Venice for burial. It was truly an honour to come to the Basilica at this hour - as works by Tintoretto, Bellini and Mantegna adorn the cathedral’s walls. Francesco was our most informative and entertaining guide for the evening.

The meeting place (for those who tended to drift) was between the two columns at the entrance to St Mark’s Square. As we sailed away from Venice in the late evening we couldn’t help but notice that public water transport seemed to ease off on Sunday evenings, and wondered how the night time revellers got home from the city centre.



ITALY – Ravenna (City of art)



In the 5th century Ravenna was the capital of the Western Roman Empire. Later the city was under Byzantine control and became famous for its superb early Christian (Aryan) mosaics and buildings.

Previously on the sea, and now linked by a canal, Ravenna’s historic city centre is exclusive to pedestrians and bicycles. (Apparently each resident has 3 bicycles – one for everyday, one for special occasions and the third one in case either of the first two just happen to disappear). The mosaics in this city are incredible and shouldn’t be missed.

We visited 4 main buildings – Basilica de San Vitale (the most glorious example of Byzantine art in the west), Mausoleo di Galla Placidia (a veritable study in blue glass, lapis lazuli and cobalt), Arian Baptistry (Christ’s baptism in the Jordan River) and Orthodox Baptistry (Commissioned by Bishop Neon, so also called the Neon Baptistry). Baptistries were separated from the church as the ‘faithful’ could not enter the church until they had been baptised. Ravenna is a candidate for 2019 European city of Culture.



ITALY –Taormina, Sicily



There was a tender (lifeboat) transfer to the Sicilian shore at Giardini Naxos followed by a short bus ride to Taormina. This picturesque medieval city set against Mt Taurus and close to the volcano Mt Etna (home of Cyclops and the forge of Vulcan) is known for its marzipan, ‘turron’ sweets with almonds, vibrant pottery and fabulous flowers. The Graeco-Roman theatre is most impressive and has a wonderful vista overlooking the bay. This area of Sicily was a fashionable winter holiday resort for the stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age, and still is very popular today.



During the afternoon we sailed through the Straits of Messina (sometimes turbulent but calm on this occasion), then later in the evening passed by the volcanic island of Stromboli.



ITALY -Sorrento – Pompei/Herculaneum



Located over the Bay of Naples, enclosed by impressive limestone rocks, and fragranced with lemon groves, Sorrento and the Amalfi coast have long been popular. Ibsen and Wagner used to spend their winters here. The small marina is the starting point for the hydrofoils to Capri, and Sorrento is often used for daytrips to Naples - but the day of our visit was different, and plans had to change. Rockfalls precluded some coaches from reaching Sorrento which prevented passengers from reaching the shore and enjoying their half-day excursions – so, ever alert to these possibilities, the Captain moved the ship from Sorrento further up the coast to Castellammare.



Mt Vesuvius dominates the area. Some guests chose to visit the large Roman city of Pompei (which was unexpectedly engulfed in ash from Mt Vesuvius in 79AD and killed 20,000 inhabitants). Pompei certainly gives an insight into Roman daily life at that time, but I chose to go to Erculano (Herculaneum)– the affluent Roman coast resort which was covered in volcanic mud and lava. This excursion was much nicer than anticipated, and an eye-opener into daily life of Romans on holiday. The spas, gymnasium, forum, beach, water troughs, sewage system and shops are a backdrop to the sumptuously decorated villas.



ITALY – Rome



Docked in Civitavecchia, a coach trip took nearly everyone to Rome to see the Colosseum, Forum and St. Peter’s Basilica in the morning, and then to undertake a walking tour of Rome comprising Colonna Square, the Pantheon, Bernini’s fountain of the Four Rivers, and the Trevi fountain (to make wishes and drop coins), in the afternoon. As I had been to Rome before I stayed on board the Aegean Odyssey. Those that went on the tour really enjoyed the experience, but found Rome’s traffic bothersome.



ITALY – Florence (Athens of the Middle Ages, Cradle of the Renaissance)



This was a very special day. We docked in Livorno and the coaches took us through delightful Tuscan scenery to Florence. The countryside really looked like a painting with cypress and olive trees, monasteries, quaint villages and rolling green hills. Needless to say Florence was packed with tourists – not only pedestrians but also tourists balanced on Segway cycles. Most of the cars in the city were tiny ‘Smart car’ versions, with laundry, refuse and special deliveries only made in tiny specialised vehicles during the early morning or late evening.

We started off the morning with a walking tour viewing the Baptistry of St John (East door – Door of Paradise with Old Testament stories by Lorenzo Ghiberti), Giotto’s BellTower with its pink,green and white marble, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Straw Market (with its statue of a boar) and our meeting place – the Piazza della Signoria (where there is a copy of the David statue). It was intended that we visit the Accademia Gallery to view Michelangelo’s colossal statue of David but Ronnie Wood from The Rolling Stones had also decided to visit that day and the queues stretched round the building. Those who had seen David when he used to stand in Signoria Square (before he was moved to the Accademia), opted to have lunch of panini or pasta and wine in one of many side-street cafes. After lunch we took a stroll down to the Ponte Vecchio over the River Arno. This ancient bridge was formerly occupied by butchers, but in the 16th century the shops were assigned to gold and silversmiths. The afternoon was spent at the Uffizi Gallery – Italy’s greatest art gallery to view masterpieces by Raphael, Filippo Lippi, Titian, Sandro Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci. The Uffizi Gallery shop had some wonderful books and souvenirs including jigsaw puzzles of the famous paintings and statues. I bought Botticelli’s ‘’Birth of Venus’ – but wonder how many bought a ‘David’ jigsaw puzzle as a gift!. After the Uffizi Gallery we strolled towards the 13th century Santa Croce Gothic church where Michelangelo, Rossini and Galileo are entombed. Some cruise guests who had seen Florence many times had the option to visit Pisa for the day.



CROATIA – Split,Trogir (cruise past Brac,Hvar and Korcula)



Split has one of the best fresh produce markets along the Adriatic coast. They are called ‘green’ markets here with cherries, strawberries as well as greengages and other plums in season at the time of our visit. Jagoda (Strawberry) was the name of our guide on this tour. Well, the Roman Emperor Diocletian certainly knew how to look after himself! While many Emperors were being decapitated, he was planning his own retirement home near his birthplace in Dalmatia. His palace appears to be a combination of a Roman imperial villa with strong Hellenistic influences. There is a fabulous mensa (dining table) still in the palace, close to the vomitorium of course. Some of the windows were made from the bottom of bottles. People still live in the palace – much has been renovated but there is still plenty left to do. We were entertained by ‘a cappella’ singers during the tour of the palace, and touched the lucky toe of the Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic’s statue. Mestrovic’s sculptures are easily recognisable as each person portrayed has exceptionally long fingers. After the visit to Diocletian’s Palace we strolled through the narrow streets, visited a museum, and made our way back to a square surrounded by coffee and pastry shops. The Croatian/Turkish burek (light tasty pastry) is almost irresistible. The Aegean Odyssey stayed late in Split for those who wanted to dine out in this lively Adriatic coastal city.



The optional afternoon tour was to the UNESCO world heritage island site of Trogir – often referred to as a small Venice. Our guide Ivo took us through St Lawrence portal. St Lawrence is always portrayed with a grill (he was burnt to death as a Christian martyr) but he is also the patron saint of humour. Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Saracens, Hungarians and many more rulers governed this former important island port on the Adriatic. This special island has many quiet courtyards, cobbled streets, wells, carved doors and high columns on the nobles’ houses. There are Romanesque and Renaissance elements. Coats of arms and statues adorn the houses. St Sebastian was the patron saint for protection against the Black Plague, and the Belltower is dedicated to him. St John Orsini features on the island (Orsini meant he came from Orsini, like St Francis of Assisi came from Assisi) The local houses are made of limestone and we saw capers growing in between cracks in the garden walls and a 19th century lemon tree. St Lawrence Cathedral is mostly Venetian but there are Gothic style choir chairs, a 15th century pulpit, floor tombs of the local nobles, and 18th century Baroque organ pipes. Ivo told us of the artistic ‘mistakes’ such as Adam and Eve sculptors and paintings being depicted with bellybuttons, and the secret messages such as:- lion tails depicted in paintings and statutes pointing down meant the city was occupied, and books closed meant the city was at war, and tails up and books open meant peace. An Italianate loggia nearby, formerly a courthouse, has a ceiling depicting Chinese silk and pasta (perhaps respectfully acknowledging Marco Polo’s travels to the East). The Duke’s Palace is 13th century, likewise the Cathedral. The fortress Kamerlengo is 15th century, likewise the city walls, city loggia and Cipicko large and small palaces. Tourism and shipbuilding are the most important economies of Trogir at the moment.



Cruise past Brac, Hvar and Korcula. We could see the islands - but at a distance and it was difficult to identify any distinguishing features.



MONTENEGRO – 3 hour cruise round Kotor Bay



Kotor Bay was apparently a rival to both Venice and Dubrovnik as a sea power. It is now hidden away perhaps as Europe’s southernmost fjord but more likely a ria or submarine river canyon. This is a great area for religious pilgrimage. Our Lady of the Rocks Church located on a small island in the bay is one of the main attractions. The Aegean Odyssey sounded the horn 3 times, and the church of Our Lady of the Rock’s bell rang three times in response.



GREECE:- Corfu (Ionian Island)



The modern Greek name for Corfu is Kerkyra, named after the daughter of the river-god Asopus. Corfu always held a special place in the hearts of the Venetians. An olive tree has to be planted when someone was born and a cypress tree when someone died.

We had a morning walking tour of Corfu old town starting with Venetian construction of the Old fortress built over older Byzantine walls. We visited the Anglican church of St George, the Lighthouse and stopped at the Angelos Giallinas (1857-1939) painting exhibition, proceeded through to the Esplanade past the cricket pitch, and on to the church of the patron saint of the island - the church of St Spiridon (where a number o Russians were worshipping). Linden trees were in full bloom. Olive and loquat souvenirs were on sale. The outside of the city houses in Corfu have to be painted in typical Venetian colours – pink, salmon, parchment, yellow and dark red – it’s most impressive.



FRANCE – Marseilles, the Carmargue, Avignon, Arles



Lavender, herbs and local Provencal dancing greeted us on arrival at Marseilles, but we had a full day tour to Avignon and Arles planned, driving through the Camargue delta (an enormous area of about 800 sq.kilometres between the two arms of the Rhone river and the sea) with its marshes of rice, black bulls, cranes, wheat, sunflowers, flamingos and wild white horses. The Provencal setting is the location for such books as ‘A Year in Provence’ and ‘Jean de Florette’.



The Papal Palace in Avignon is one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe- about 15,000 sq. metres. French popes found Rome impossible and Clement V, Benedict XII and Clement VI resided and ruled here in the 14th century. It seemed quite obvious that they lived in great comfort and luxury. The papal court at Avignon became one of the most splendid in medieval Europe.

We passed by the ‘Pont d’Avignon’ (which is actually Pont St. Benezet) across the Rhone river. Originally there were two branches of the Rhone river and this bridge had 22 arches, but it was not very wide. The song ‘sur the pont d’avignon’ refers to dancing in round formation on the bridge but in fact, the original version describes dancing sous or under the bridge on the islands between the two branches of the river.



We then drove to Arles to have an excellent lunch at the 4 star Jules Cesar’s hotel restaurant ‘Lou Marques’. This was followed by an afternoon walking tour. Arles became the ‘Rome of the Gauls’ with pretty streets, a Roman theatre, an arena and public baths made of marble with running water. The markets of Arles were very famous; oil and wine from Provence were exported. The artisans of Arles were renowned for their goldwork, weapons and fabrics. It was also an important cultural and religious centre. We saw the Romanesque beauty of the Church of St Trophime - one of the most beautiful in Provence. We visited the Arena (amphitheatre) where young school children were practising their gladiator and cockade bullfighting skills (peculiar to Arles), and the Roman theatre where the Queen of Arles Festival takes place. Provencal ‘santons’ (Christmas crèche figurines) were available in the shops.



In February 1888 Vincent van Gogh came to Arles. The light and colours of this region made a powerful impression on his sensitive soul and influenced his art. The ‘Espace van Gogh’, a recently created cultural centre dedicated to the artist, is located in the old hospital of Arles, where the Dutch painter stayed on more than one occasion on account of his frequent mental crises. Van Gogh produced an incredible number of canvasses and drawings during his stay in Arles.



Every Saturday morning a market takes place in the Boulevard de Lices in Arles. Typical Provencal fabrics, herbs, spices, wines and antiques are sold.



There was some restriction about the sale of alcohol in the port of Marseilles so instead of staying until 9pm, we set sail at 6pm.







FRANCE – Cannes and (Nice/Monaco) or (Grasse/Vence)



The fabulous French Riviera. We tendered (with lifeboats) into the marina of Cannes – alongside numerous multimillion dollar yachts and landed at the old Port next to the Palais des Festivals where the Annual Film Festival had been held the previous week (the red carpet was still there for all to see). Again Provencal musicians were there to greet us.



The ‘Mistral’ wind normally blows during winter and spring and if it had been blowing at the time our tender transfer would have been cancelled in Cannes, and the ship would have been transferred to Toulon or Nice.



Cannes is beautiful – long sandy beaches, luxurious hotels along the Croisette, Forville Market open daily for fresh produce – monkfish, duck, aubergines, strawberries, asparagus, artichokes, thousands of cheeses and beautiful flowers. ‘Traiteurs’ shops for ready-made meals, historic old ‘le Suquet’ area overlooking the old port with Notre Dame de l’Esperance church offering great vistas of both the bay and the city. Just along the bay is the Sea Museum in St Margaret’s Island - home of the ‘Man in the Iron Mask’.



The optional tours took place in the afternoon – Nice/Monaco or Grasse/Vence. I had been to both areas before. Some guests chose the perfume factory at Grasse and the medieval village of St Paul de Vence, beloved by artists with its cobbled streets. Celebrities like Garbo and Deneuve, artists such as Chagall and Miro were enamoured with Vence.



I decided to take the Nice/Monaco tour. Our coach drove along the coast road to Nice, called the ‘pearl of the cote d’azur’. There are grey shingle beaches alongside the palm-lined palace and luxury hotels of the Promenade des Anglais, and an international airport that stretches out into the sea.



Although Cannes had 3 casinos the one in Monaco is famous. Monaco, an independent principality is a little further along the coast. We visited the historic old town and saw the Prince’s Palace, Parliament and Cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were buried. Free time was given to wander around the small streets. Then we got back into the coach and moved on to the capital, Monte Carlo, where we drove along the Formula One race track (The Monaco Grand Prix had taken place only two weeks previously) to Casino Square. There is a defibrillator encased in a wall at the bottom of the 80 steps to the Casino (perhaps it for those people who have lost all their winnings). The Monte Carlo Casino is magnificent- the Grand Salon with its magnificent chandeliers, painted ceilings and gold-leaf motifs. We had quite a bit of free time so we spent it sipping wine, sitting in comfortable chairs in the Salon Club Riviera bar in the Casino while a local songstress kept us entertained.

This was such a perfectly relaxing way to end a wonderful holiday.



MV Aegean Odyssey is a medium sized ship carrying 300+ passengers

Throughout this cruise at the various ports, we came across the enormous cruise liners carrying more than 4000 passengers and I am so glad that I was on smaller and much friendlier ship.



Hotel Manager Matthew and Cruise Director Alison were the first to greet me as I arrived on board in Venice. They both do a wonderful job on board. Next, my young handsome cabin steward Howy was a gem, and kept my cabin in perfect order. The Reception personnel were wonderful answering my various queries; and Ali who masterminded both the Marco Polo and Terrace restaurants always found an interesting table for me to sit at. John brought me Earl Grey tea every morning at breakfast. The various waiters who attended us in both restaurants gave impeccable service and the bar waitresses were very attentive. There were beautiful flowers everywhere – in the library, the Charleston lounge and at Reception. Zoe and her team of graduate students kept us very well informed with information and maps for the various day trips. This was particularly noticeable when there was a sudden change of plan and the ship had to move from Sorrento to Castellammare.



The Romanian Trio Café Concerto Strings (with new violinist Robert) excelled themselves with classical and Eastern European music, and also gave three concerts during our two week cruise. Dan and Kate’s Cadence Duo kept us entertained with lighter music, and joined the trio for one of the concerts.



Former actress and Cruise Director Alison gave a poetry reading (which I’m sorry I missed as I heard it was very good). Alison also arranged games of bridge for those who wanted to play, and kept us very well informed with her daily news bulletins (English, American, Canadian and Australian versions) - so pertinent as the 4 days of Diamond Jubilee were being celebrated in the UK. She also had to remind us not to forget our ‘Quiet vox’ when the groups were called for daytrips. I think Alison was responsible for the appropriate choice of films – Roman Holiday, The Odyssey, and Captain Corelli’s Mandolin



Callum offered early morning yoga. The spa and beauty salon offered affordable services. The pool and Jacuzzi were used when it was warm enough.



This particular cruise was dominated by American academic groups - Road Scholars and AHI (American Hospitality International), World Affairs Council and Temple; but there were also a small number of Australians, British and Canadians as well as assorted other nationalities. There were 87 repeat passengers in the Odyssey Club which is always a good sign.



The food on board was excellent – from the very varied breakfasts where you could have anything from smoked salmon, to 3 types of bacon/ham, stuffed apples, any sort of egg combination and varied breads, fruit and cereals. Carved fruits and ornaments made from pastry adorned the serving tables. This was particularly noticeable at lunchtime on the Terrace where they were daily specials of assorted cheeses, meze, tropical fruits, assorted ice creams etc at a central table, not to mention the pizza and stir fries available on a daily basis. Dinners in the Marco Polo restaurant had wonderful menus and there was always the slimmer alternative of salmon or grilled chicken available. I only had time for afternoon tea once (sandwiches and scones one side and cakes and pastries the other side of the cafe) and never had time for the Night Bites (but believe they were good).



The lecturers brought art, sculpture and architecture alive. Gregory Dowling started off with his local information on Venice, art historian Francis Broun kept us amused with amazing insight into famous paintings, Ann Clements (from NADPAS) looked at certain aspects of art, and her husband Roger Sceats kept us up to date on the historical significance of the Emperors and Popes.



Last but not least, Swedish Captain Roland Andersson kept us on the straight and narrow.



Sitting in the Charleston lounge sipping Pinot Grigio and listening to the Café Concerto Strings, or starting up a table of six in the Marco Polo restaurant to order to meet new friends is such bliss. Our ‘pink’ group (everyone is divided into coloured groups) consisted of a good mixture of married couples, friends travelling together and those travelling ‘solo’. The whole cruise was very friendly, informative and well-organised – can’t wait for the next one!.



Turkish Airlines. As there were no non-stop flights to Venice/Nice from Johannesburg, I chose to travel on Turkish Airlines and am most impressed by the service. It was fortunate that I was able to spent time in the VIP lounges in Nice and Istanbul as this always makes transit times more comfortable.



Triton Cape Sea Travel Cape Town – Thank you Zelda for all your efforts in arranging this lovely cruise.





Patricia Petersson-O’Connell (Mrs)


Johannesburg June 2012