Cruise With Lori

More news about the COVID19 Coronavirus

Here is some medical information and advice from my personal physician, Dr. Bryan Jick, from Fair Oaks Women's Heath Center in Pasadena, California about the coronavirus and steps to take to help prevent infection or prevent spreading the infection to others.

Coronavirus is the name of the virus that is causing an illness called COVID-19. The illness usually starts within 2 days of exposure but can take up to 14 days to show up. The symptoms are fever, cough, and often some shortness of breath. People can progress from mildly ill to severely ill in a short time, sometimes just a few hours.

Steps to take to help avoid becoming sick

1. Wearing a mask when you feel well is not helpful.
2. Wash your hands with soap and water (20 seconds minimum) or use sanitizer gel before and after using the restroom, eating, or touching common public surfaces such as door handles.
3. Make your own sanitizer gel: 1 cup Isopropyl alcohol, ½ cup Aloe Vera gel, a few drops of scented oil for aroma, small amounts of Vit E oil for extra skin softening, small amounts of water to thin the gel mixture.
4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
5. Use Lysol or Clorox spray to wipe down counters and door handles.
6. Avoid large crowds.
7. Try and stay 6 feet or more away from others.
8. Avoid being near anyone who is coughing or appears ill.
9. Telecommute if this is an option.
10. Check the CDC website for updates:

www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Steps to take if you think you might have developed a COVID-19 infection

1. If you develop a cough, wear a mask if near others and stay home until you can determine if this is a cold or is COVID.
2. If you have been in close contact in the past 7 days with someone who you later found out definitely has COVID, then self-quarantine if possible until 14 days from when that contact took place. If no symptoms by then, you should be okay.
3. If you have been in close contact in the past 7 days with someone who you think might have COVID, then self-quarantine if possible until you know for sure if they tested positive or negative.

When to seek medical attention and when NOT to

1. If you have a fever > 100.4 degrees and a cough, this could be COVID or could be a cold. Do not go to a medical office or ER unless you have trouble breathing as well.
2. If you feel more than a little sick, call your doctor and ask what to do.
3. Unless you are severely ill, do not go to an ER unless instructed to by medical personnel. ER’s are becoming overwhelmed with patients, many of whom do not need to be seen.
4. Despite what is being said by the media, testing for the virus is NOT widely available. Most ER’s can test you if they determine it to be necessary, Few doctor’s offices if any have testing available.

General facts about the virus

1. It is possible that a many people have been infected with such a mild case that we do not really know how severe the illness is. We only know that about 2% of cases of people severely ill enough to become hospitalized are fatal.
2. For the US 2019-2020 flu season, 18,000 people have died and 30 million became ill. There are a few hundred cases of COVID in the US and a few dozen or less deaths so far.
3. After 2 months, the number of new cases in China and South Korea is decreasing. This suggests that millions of people have probably been exposed to the virus and have become immune without getting very sick.

Let's pray this crisis is over soon, and we can get back to normal!

The Pandemonium Caused By Coronavirus
with thanks to Cassie Shortsleeve

As a could-be medical pandemic, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19)—the respiratory disease first detected in Wuhan, China, at the end of December, which now has more than 82,000 confirmed cases worldwide—has incited pandemonium globally, specifically among travelers.

After all, planes pose a unique risk for any disease contraction: Long flights result in longer times of potential exposure if someone onboard is sick and shared air makes it more difficult to avoid unwell passengers. As a result, concern over COVID-19 has led to canceled international trips.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned against all non-essential travel to China (the U.S. State Department has also issued a "Do Not Travel" warning to the country); suggested reconsidering travel to South Korea; and advised precautions for travel to Iran, Italy, and Japan due to outbreaks. People are, unsurprisingly, fearful: On Monday, a British Airways flight to Milan was delayed before takeoff when a passenger scared of coronavirus refused to fly.

But it’s important to realize that, as of publishing, there are only 200 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.—and 42 were among people evacuated from a Diamond Princess cruise ship that was quarantined in Japan. Recently, the CDC has confirmed the first case of the disease not linked to travel.

“Having strict travel restrictions and surveillance of people who arrive from infected parts of the world has limited cases of COVID-19 in the US considerably,” says Robert Amler, M.D., dean of the School of Health Sciences and Practice at New York Medical College and former chief medical officer for the CDC.

Plus, while COVID-19 is undoubtedly serious, other respiratory illnesses, namely the flu, have proven to pose far more of a risk to health this winter. Influenza has already taken the lives of at least 14,000 people in the U.S., while there have been only twenty two deaths in the country linked to COVID-19 as of March 6, 2020.

Ultimately, experts are still learning about COVID-19, but for now, the CDC notes that it likely spreads similarly to most other viruses, via close person-to-person contact and respiratory droplets. To stay healthy on your upcoming flights, no matter what you're up against, take these seven precautions, which are effective in keeping many respiratory illnesses at bay. After all, says Dr. Amler, “The bottom line is, people don’t want to get infected regardless of what name you put on the virus.”

Get the flu shot. There is no vaccine to prevent coronavirus but it’s not too late to get a flu shot, which can protect you against this year’s serious (and deadly) flu.

Do your best to keep your distance from people who are visibly sick. On a plane, that’s easier said than done. The CDC defines "close" contact as within six feet of someone, and previous research suggests that sitting within two rows of someone with flu-like symptoms puts you at a 3.6 percent increased risk of getting sick with what they have. At the very least, make sure you're out of a sneeze’s range. “When someone coughs or sneezes there are relatively large, visible droplets that are expelled from the nose and mouth that can land in someone else’s face, and that’s an entry into the body where the virus can then cause disease,” explains Dr. Amler.

Skip the face mask. Typical, paper surgical masks only protect other people against your germs. They don’t offer you protection from everyone else, says Dr. Amler.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. These are the portals into your body for viruses.

Wash your hands. Scrub with water and any soap for at least 20 seconds to stay safe and clean, suggests the CDC.

Pack an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make sure it has at least 60 percent alcohol content, an amount that can neutralize germs. (Tried-and-true travel-friendly Purell will do the trick, as will something like Honest's grapefruit-scented spray sanitizer.) While hand-washing is always experts' number one tip when it comes to staying healthy, if you want to wipe down your tray table or armrest while flying for peace of mind, use a disinfectant with that same threshold of alcohol content.

Be in the know. Staying up-to-date with travel notices and outbreaks can provide you current recommendations for travel and health tips. The CDC’s Coronavirus Disease 2019 Information for Travel is here and global cases are being tracked by Johns Hopkins here. If you're concerned about an upcoming trip being affected by COVID-19, be sure to follow these 10 steps before rethinking your plans.

Inside Royal Caribbean's Private Isle Makeover

Royal Caribbean's new Private Isle, "A Perfect Day in Coco Cay" is absolutely AMAZING!

Here is a wonderful article telling you all about all the new amenities it has to offer...Just click on this link!

 

Inside Royal Caribbean's Private Isle Makeover.

 

 

How To Choose A Cruise Ship

This week, we are joined by Renee Berberian with an article about

How to Choose A Cruise Ship. 

Take it away, Renee!

 

So you want to take a cruise…

Cruising can be a wonderful way to travel, but if you’ve never navigated the world of cruise offerings, you’ve got a lot to consider.  The destinations are important and will ultimately shape your selections, but vitally, so are the choice of cruise lines and more centrally, the ship you’ll actually travel on.

Don’t confuse a “good deal” with a good fit; cruises are NOT all the same.  Ask the right questions so that you don’t find yourself on a ship that doesn’t match your personality or travel style.  This is miserable for you, awful for the cruise staff and ultimately damages the industry because you’ll return home with a resolve to “never cruise again,” making sure to tell everyone you know.  This was my response after spending our honeymoon on a ship that held 2,390 passengers back in 1993.  We didn’t ask the right questions and it took 5 years to get me back on a ship, but 20 years and 32 cruises later, I can honestly say it’s one of the most enjoyable ways to travel, if you’re on the right ship.

How do you choose a ship that actually meets YOUR needs?

A cruise line should be viewed the same way you would view hotel branding.  Take Starwood for instance, which offers Westin, Sheraton, Le Meridien, St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, W Hotels, Four Points, Aloft, etc.  These brands are not equal in service, accommodations, style, quality or price point.  The cruise lines also have that same product diversity.  For instance, Carnival Cruise Lines is the parent company for Carnival, Holland America Line, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, P&O Cruises, P&O Cruises Australia, Aida, Costa Cruises and Ibero Cruceros.  Royal Caribbean International is the parent company for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur and Croisieres de France. 

With hotels, it’s easier to understand the differences represented in their product line.  Thanks to the TV series, “The Love Boat,” which ran from 1977 to 1987, there’s a novelty and romance associated with traveling by sea.  Additionally, Hollywood inspires us with films like “Titanic,” “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” “The Poseidon Adventure,” “The Imposters,” “Boat Trip” and many more.

As with hotels, individual cruise lines offer different levels of service, accommodations, style, quality and price point.  You wouldn’t necessarily select a hotel just because the price was the lowest and you shouldn’t base your cruise selection on price point either.  If you do, you might find yourself in less luxury than you’re used to and on a ship that doesn’t meet your expectations.

With a cruise, there are a variety of things to consider.  First decide on a destination and from there, you'll likely find a long list of ships cruising that region.  Next, ask the right questions to help you narrow your selection to ships that fit your travel style.  Lastly, do the basics and you’ll be ahead of the game when it comes to choosing a ship and enjoying the vacation you’ve always dreamed of.

What are the right questions?

Q:  How large is the ship and how many passengers does it hold? 

Ships tend to call themselves “yacht like” if they have fewer than 400 passengers, “small” if they have fewer than 1,000 passengers, “medium” if they are between 1,000 to 1,800 passengers and “large” if they are 1,800 or more passengers.  Take passenger numbers in mind when looking at the length and beam of a ship. 

Small Ship Pros:  Fewer passengers’ means personal service.  Small ships tend to run with a higher crew to guest ratio.  This equals shorter lines, less crowding and easy embarkation / disembarkation.  Entertainment can be highly specialized with interesting guest lecturers, local cultural ensembles, naturalists and contract performers.  The bars, lounges and disco will be quieter as the evening grows late.  A small ship can pull into smaller ports and tendering is less likely.

Small Ship Cons:  Small ships tend to be more costly and staterooms can sometimes be smaller in scale than the same category stateroom on a larger ship.  The entertainment could be uninteresting leaving you with entertaining yourselves in the evening or watching movies on the ship television channels.  The bars, lounges and disco will be quieter as the evening grows late.  Dining for a smaller crowd can sometimes necessitate seating times in the evening, forcing you into either an early or late seating situation for dinner.

Large Ship Pros:  A larger ship will have more outlets for shopping and entertainment and more areas for things like ice-skating, rock climbing and even giant water slides.  The bars, lounges and disco will offer entertainment until the wee hours with multiple venues to choose from in addition to movie channels on your stateroom television.

Large Ship Cons:  More passengers’ mean longer lines.  The embarkation / disembarkation process takes longer and there will be times when you’ll wait in long lines for the buffet, the passenger services desk, the excursions desk, etc.  A large ship cannot get into smaller ports and tendering from the ship becomes necessary in those ports.  Dining rooms are busier making it more difficult to dine when and where you’d like.

Q:  What are the different stateroom sizes?

While the stateroom square footage might be shockingly smaller than a typical hotel room, storage has been maximized and you'll find you've got room enough for all of your things.  Some important differences to note are bed sizes and weather you've been provided with a tub and shower or a shower only.  Additionally, many ships include the square footage of the balcony when quoting stateroom sizes.

Q:  What is the crew to guest ratio? 

More crew for each guest means a higher level of service. 

Q:  Why is the same stateroom category priced differently?

Staterooms vary in price depending on location and view within the same category.  Make sure your view isn’t obstructed and that you’ve not got a connecting door unless that’s what you’re looking for.

Q:  What star rating has been awarded to the ship?

Ships are rated from 1 to 6 stars and those ratings are based on quality, service, crew to guest ration, recent renovations, etc.

Q:  When was the ship built and when was the last renovation?

Ships need maintenance.  You want to know the ship you’ll be traveling on has been well maintained and is comfortable.

Q:  Is this a party ship or is it quiet? 

Whether you are looking for quiet romance with your special someone or looking for someone special, it’s a good question to get an answer to.

Q:  Is the ship formal or more casual? 

Will you feel out of place if you are required to wear cocktail attire or a jacket and tie every evening?  Do you look forward to dressing up?  Find out what the etiquette on board is before making your decision.

Q:  Is this ship appropriate for children and are there things for my kids to do? 

If it’s a family vacation, make sure the kids have options so that you can have time with your spouse and / or your own thoughts. 

Q:  What is included? 

Some ships charge extra for Specialty restaurants, excursions, alcohol, espresso drinks, soda, bottled water, etc. and some include many or all of those things.  Find out what you’ll need to budget extra for.  Most ships do not include airport transfers.

Q:  Are extra fees charged onboard and if so what do they cover? 

Many ships charge an onboard fee for gratuities which are shared amongst wait staff, stateroom stewards, buffet stewards, galley staff, laundry and others who support your cruise experience.

Q:  What are the dining options and when is dinner served?

Find out how many dining rooms you’ll have to choose from and if dinner is serviced with two seating’s (early & late) or if anytime dining OK?

Q:  What is the deposit requirement and what is the cancellation schedule?

Cancellation fees typically begin 90 days prior to departure, though some cruise lines begin imposing penalty fees as early as 120 days prior.  Each cruise line operates with different deposit and cancellation schedules.  It’s always recommended that with your cruise you also purchase trip cancellation and interruption insurance so that you are covered in the event of an emergency.  Most cruise lines offer insurance and private options are also readily available through companies like Travelex Travel Insurance at http://www.travelexinsurance.com/.

Before finalizing anything, peruse websites to investigate what people are saying about cruise lines and cruise ships you’re most interested in.  A good resource is Cruise Critic at www.cruisecritic.com.  Better yet, visit a travel professional who is a cruise specialist, they will have the most recent information on things happening in the cruise world. 

However you decide to travel, spend some time on research before spending your time and money.  You can always make more money but you can’t make more time.

 

By:  Renée Berberian

@reneeReview

www.reneereview.com 

 

Carnival Cruise Lines Children's Program

Carnival Cruise Lines is another cruise company that caters to children of all ages. Their Camp Carnival Program is one of the most comprehensive in the industry.

Carnival has named their ships the ‘Fun Ships,’ and nowhere is that more apparent than in the kid’s clubs! They have separate areas for different age groups:

 

• Camp Carnival
  • 2 to 5 years
  • 6 to 8 years
  • 9 to 11 years
  • Circle ‘C’
    • Tweens ages 12-14
    • Club O2
      • Teens ages 15-17

 

Hours vary daily depending on the schedule and itinerary. They are posted at the beginning of the cruise, and in the special newsletter that comes around to the children each night.  

 

 

Camp Carnival

 

This is more than just babysitting. Camp Carnival is staffed by counselors that have either college education or extensive childcare experience.  Children meet their counselors on the first night of the cruise at a special orientation session where parents sign their children up, and get a schedule of the events being planned for their voyage.

 

Some activities might include:

 

Toddlers ~ Ages 2 to 5 years

• Story time
• Splash Pool
• Cartoon Time
• Play dough
• Picture Bingo
• Little Tykes Toys
• Sing-a-longs
• Puppet Shows
• Learn Your Colors
• Sponge Painting
• Face Painting
• Memory Games
• And much more…

 

Junior Cruisers ~ Ages 6 to 8 years

• Cartoon Time
• Play Station 2 and IMac time
• Face Painting
• Sea Animals
• Spin Art, Sand Art and Candy Art
• Cookie Decorating
• Outdoor Fun and Games
• Pizza Parties
• Arts & Crafts
• T-shirt Painting
• Talent Show
• Prize Bingo
• ExerSeas – Kid’s Fitness Program
• Make Your Own Sundaes
• EduCruise – Educational Activties
• And much more…

 

Intermediate Cruisers ~ Ages 9 to 11 years

Cruisers this age have a marvelous time participating in supervised activities and team and game challenges that take them throughout the ship, such as scavenger hunts. There’s swimming and video games, and new friends to keep them so entertained, you may have a hard time pulling them away from Camp Carnival!  Other activities include:

• Coke-tail Parties
• Bingo
• EduCruise – Educational Activities
• Pizza Pig-Out
• Board Games
• T-Shirt Decorating
• Play Station 2 and IMac time
• Talent Shows
• Jewelry Making
• Movie Time
• Ping Pong
• ExerSeas – Kid’s Fitness Program
• Volleyball
• Scavenger Hunts
• Meet the Entertainers/ Backstage Tours
• Swimming Under the Stars
• Spin Art, Sand Art, and Candy Art
• Dance Parties
• Arts & Crafts
• And much more…

 

Circle  ‘C’ ~ Ages 12 to 15

 

“What does the “C” in Circle “C” stand for? Well, “chill,” “connect” and “cool” just to name a few. It’s where young teens ages 12 to 14 go to hang out, meet new friends, and enjoy some pretty awesome activities like dance parties, games, outdoor movies and more, in the special Circle “C” area, or around the ship. It’s all supervised by friendly and fun-loving counselors who want your young tweens to have the best vacation ever!”*

 

Carnival even has a special shore excursion program designed just for tweens and teens! They can choose from a selection of Camp Carnival recommended tours, and go as a group to explore many exciting destinations with a Circle “C” chaperone.

 

Every night the 12-15 year olds can meet in the shipboard dance club from 9:30 to 10:45 for dancing and having a great time with their newfound friends. After 11:00pm, kids 15 and under can join the youth staff for a variety of activities, such as a late night movie, karaoke or outdoor games.

 

Other activities include:

• Talent Show
• Trivia Games
• Board Games
• ExerSeas – Competitive indoor and outdoor games
• Ping-Pong tournaments
• Play Station 2 and IMac time
• Dance Parties
• Karaoke

 

Club O2 ~ Ages 15-17

 

Teens this age just want a place to themselves to hang out, chill, listen to music and maybe have a pool party. Club O2 is exactly that…There’s music, movies, sports and video games, karaoke, and even some teen-only shore excursions! And, hey, your teens might not even be embarrassed to be seen with you, as long as they have Club O2 to escape to! 

Children's Programs onboard Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruises

Last week I profiled the Children’s Programs aboard Disney Cruise Line’s ships. This week, let’s look at Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean’s children’s programs!

 

PRINCESS CRUISES

 

Princess has activities for children of every age group, from 3-17 years old. Children need to be potty-trained and out of diapers. Children under three and/or not toilet trained may participate if accompanied by a parent or guardian.

 

Children are welcome on all Princess cruise ships, but facilities vary. Ocean Princess and Pacific Princess do not have dedicated Youth Centers or Teen Lounges. Programs are available on these vessels only when 20 or more children ages 3 to 17 are sailing. Group kidsitting is not available on Ocean Princess and Pacific Princess.

 

Princess has teamed up with California Science Center, and their counselors are specially trained to deliver exciting, interactive science activities for kids age 3-12. Whale watching, chemistry experiments, rollercoaster building and squid dissection are just some of the activities that may be offered.

 

On Alaska cruises, the National Park Service Junior Ranger Program teaches kids about endangered wildlife, glaciers and other animals native to the region. The Park Rangers provide special presentations and activities for kids, giving them an opportunity to earn a Jr. Ranger badge.

 

Hours of Operation:

 

Sea Days:

• 9:00am – 12:00pm
• 1:00pm – 5:00pm
• 6:00pm - 10:00pm
• 10:00pm – 1:00am (group kidsitting for ages 3-12**, Teen program is complimentary

 

Port Days:

• 8:00am-5:00pm^
• 6:00pm – 10:00pm
• 10:00pm – 1:00am (group kidsitting for ages 3-12**, Teen program is complimentary

 

**A $5 per child, per hour group kidsitting charge is applicable from 10:00pm – 1:00am for passengers ages 3-12.

^ A supervised, complimentary lunch service is available with parent’s consent on port days.

Youth staff does not provide lunch service on sea days or dinner service on sea days/port days. However, there are special kids dining events scheduled throughout the voyage.

 

Kids get the chance to eat with their new friends and Youth Staff while parents enjoy dinner on their own.

 

There is a teens-only dinner on a formal night, with a section of the dining room reserved just for teens. It’s a chance for them to eat a formal dinner with their new friends.

 

There are also fun ice cream and pizza parties throughout the voyage.

Please be sure to alert Youth Staff if your child has any food allergies,and check the schedule of events when you board your ship. 

 

 

Princess Pelicans

Ages 3-7 years

Princess has a dedicated room for these special cruisers. Counselors are usually teachers or student teachers, and have a special affinity for these little ones. Some activities include:

• Kindermusik at Sea
• Kids-only dance parties
• Movies and cartoons
• Ice Cream and pizza parties
• T-shirt coloring
• Pajama parties
• Theme nights
• Fun Fairs
• Art Projects

 

 

Shockwaves

Ages 8-12

Tweens also have a dedicated program just for their age group. There are so many wonderful things to do, you may never see your child except for sleeping and meals! Some activities include:

• Kids only dinners
• Dance parties
• Movies
• PS2/PS3, Wii and the latest games
• Video games
• Scavenger hunts
• Karaoke and talent shows
• Sports tournaments
• California Science Center workshops
• Jr. CHEF@Sea
• 
  
  
• Klutz projects
• Theme nights

 

Teen Lounges

Ages 13-17

Teens just want to hang out, play the latest video games, watch movies and meet new friends. Princess’ Teen-only lounges provide the perfect place to do just that…just like Tweens, you may never see your teenager while the lounge is open! Some activities include:

• PS2/PS3, Wii and the latest games
• Movies
• Foosball tables
• Teens-only dance parties
• Late night movies
• Sport tournaments
• Casino Night
• Talent Shows
• Formal dinners
• Mocktail competitions
• DJ workshops
• Teen makeovers
• Hip Hop Dance Classes

 

 

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL

 

If you ask my 17-year old son, he will say Royal Caribbean has the BEST children’s programs at sea! He loves their ships, and aspires to sail on a Royal Caribbean (RCCL) ship at least twice a year!

 

Let’s take a look at their children’s programs:

 

First and foremost, RCCL has some of the most innovative attractions at sea. Some ships have the rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf, and their onboard surfing simulator, the Flow Rider.

 

All of their staff are college educated, and have developed age-appropriate curriculums to engage and entertain kids of all ages.

 

RCCL has partnered with:

• Crayola
• Fisher Price
• DreamWorks

To create a wonderful experience for all ages.

 

The youth program is complimentary, and there are several programs, dependent on age:

 

Royal Babies and Royal Tots

Ages 0-3

These babies will enjoy activities designed to foster parent/child bonding and development. Parents will accompany their children during these 45-minute sessions.

 

Aquanauts

Ages 3-5

Will have fun becoming certified Jr. Adventure Scientists. All children must be toilet-trained. No diapers or pull-ups allowed.

 

Explorers

Ages 6-8

Celebrate in themed parties just for them.

 

Voyagers

Ages 9-11

These children enjoy the tween-scene

 

Fuel Night Club and Living Room

Ages 12-17

Get to hang out and meet new friends!

 

Dining:

RCCL has a myriad of dining options, including Johnny Rockets ($), a pizzeria, room service, sandwiches, and many other choices. With My Time Family Dining, children can enjoy their meal in the Main Dining Room within 40 minutes of seating (first seating only) and then the Adventure Ocean counselors will pick your children up after they’ve finished, and take them up to the kid’s club while you enjoy the rest of your meal at leisure! The program starts the second evening of the cruise.

Beverages:

RCCL has two different drink packages available. These can be purchased within the first 24 hours of the cruise at the bar or any representative that is set up to sell the package, usually outside of the Windjammer café.

Fountain Soda Package – allows guests up to 18 years of age to enjoy as many soft drinks as they like for a fixed price for the duration of the cruise. (Prices vary with cruise length.)

Adventure Ocean Potion Card – allows guests up to 18 years of age to enjoy a variety of their favorite non-alcoholic drinks, including ‘Mocktails,’  (i.e. virgin Margaritas or Pina Coladas), smoothies, and soft drinks. (Prices vary with cruise length.)

 

Late Night Babysitting: Ages 3-12 years

Sometimes parents want some time to themselves, so RCCL has late night group babysitting. The rate is $6 per hour, per child in Adventure Ocean Center. Payment is in half-hour increments, and is charged to your shipboard account. The program starts at 10pm and goes to 1:00pm (or when the last child is picked up). All children must be at least three years old, and toilet-trained. No diapers or pull-ups.

 

In Stateroom Baby Sitting

RCCL offers in-stateroom baby-sitting. Availability is very limited, so please make sure to make your reservation at the Guest Relations Desk as early as possible, (and at least 24 hours in advance). Children must be at least 1 year old. The current rate* is $8 per hour in cash for two children from the same family, and $10 per hour for a maximum of three children in the same family. There is a two-hour minimum requirement. 

*rates are subject to change and are payable in cash to the babysitter. Babysitters are cruise-staff, and not necessarily Adventure Ocean counselors.

 

 

 

DREAMWORKS

Children can meet and have a photo taken with their favorite DreamWorks characters, like Shrek and Fiona, Madagascar’s Alex and the Penguins, Kung-Fu Panda and others!

 

There will be tableside character meals, poolside screenings of the Shrek movies, Shrek trivia games and scavenger hunts, and a Shrek kid’s parade where kids of all ages can join in a parade with the ‘lovable’ Shrek.

On the Allure and Oasis of the Seas, there’s a new Madagascar Aqua Show showcasing their favorite characters from the movie Madagascar.

 

These are just some of the DreamWorks activities kids can look forward to! Click here to go to RCCL's microwebsite all about the DreamWorks experience onboard their ships.

 

(Currently, the DreamWorks Experience is found on the Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, and Mariner of the Seas).

 

Babies and Tot’s Programs

Aqua Babies (6 to 18 months)

Aqua Tots (18 months to 36 months)

RCCL has created interactive playgroup sessions developed by early childhood experts at Fisher-Price. Each 45-minute session, held on one of their onboard lounges, offers activities that make playtime learning time as well. Parents are required to stay with their child during this playtime session.

 

Fisher-Price toy lending program

You can borrow and exchange from an onboard treasure chest of Fisher-Price developmental toys, specifically created for infants and toddlers.

 

Crayola Beginnings Workshops

Just for ‘Royal Tots!’ Throughout these 45-minute workshops, parents and their children enjoy story time while creating works of art using Crayola Beginnings Products.

 

 

Aquanauts

Ages 3-5

There’s so much to do in the Aquanauts program! Some programs include:

• Adventure Science by High Touch High Tech
• Adventure Art by Crayola
• Sail Into Storytime
• Adventure Theatre
• Fisher-Price Programming
• Un-Birthday Party
• Camp Aquanauts
• Ice-Cream Party
• Super Hero Afternoon
• Face Painting
• Pirate Night
• Talent Show
• Under the Sea Night
• Pajama Rama Movie Night

 

Hours:

At Sea:

9am-noon

2pm-5pm

7pm-10pm

 

In port:

Thirty minutes prior to the first shore excursion to 5pm, or return of last shore excursion and 7pm-10pm

 

Explorers

Ages 6-8

There are all kinds of exciting activities for your 6-8 year olds, like hands-on science experiments, scavenger hunts, theatre games and more. Every member of the Adventure Ocean staff holds a college degree in education, recreation or a related field and has experience working with children ages 3-17.

Some activities include:

• Adventure Science by High Touch High Tech
• Adventure Art by Crayola
• Adventure Theatre
• Wide World of Extremes Party
• Dancing Through the Decades
• Pirate Night
• Ice-Cream Party
• Scavenger Hunts
• Bingo
• Movie Mania
• Many more Explorer Games and Theme Activities

 

Hours:

At Sea:

9am-noon

2pm-5pm

7pm-10pm

 

In port:

Thirty minutes prior to the first shore excursion to 5pm, or return of last shore excursion and 7pm-10pm

 

Voyagers

Ages 9-11 years

 

The Voyagers program is all about kids having a great time, learning new things and making new friends from all over the world. And parents can be confident that their children are in the most capable of hands.  Kids absolutely LOVE the Voyagers program, and it’s easy to see why!

Some activities include:

• Adventure Science by High Touch High Tech
• Adventure Art by Crayola
• Adventure Theatre
• The X Games
• Rockin’ Through the Decades
• Reggae Beach Party
• Scavenger Hunts
• List-O-Rama
• Backstage Tour of the theatres
• The Art Walk
• Win, Cruise or Draw
• Talent Shows
• Sports Tournaments
• On Labadee and Coco Cay
  • Sand Castle Building
  • Drip, Drip, Drop
  • Adventure Family Water Balloon Toss
  • Beach Relays
  • Parachute Games
  • Tug of War
  • Adventure Challenge
  • GaGa Ball
  • Karaoke
  • Sports Tournaments

 

Hours:

At Sea:

9am-noon

2pm-5pm

7pm-10pm

 

In port:

Thirty minutes prior to the first shore excursion to 5pm, or return of last shore excursion and 7pm-10pm

 

Navigators

Ages 12-14 years

 

The best thing about RCCL’s young teen’s program is that it’s totally unstructured. They can join in an activity, or just chill with their newfound friends. There’s plenty of activities to choose from, including:

• Sport’s tournaments
• Pool parties
• College Night
• Challenge series
• Scavenger hunts
• Karaoke
• Formal Night
• Disco dancing
• Video games
• Theme Nights
• Improv games
• Scratch DJ Academy
• Mocktail Competition
• Dodgeball
• Open Mic and talent show
• Ice-skating – special time for teens
• Teen BBQ
• Dive-In Movie and pool party
• Meet the Stars Backstage
• Dance Dance Revolution
• Teen Casino
• Snowball Fight in the Caribbean
• Climbing Competition

 

Daytime activities vary – please see schedule onboard your ship.

Nighttime activities – 9pm-2am

 

Teens

Ages 15-17 years

Teens have their own space onboard RCCL’s ships, including Living Room and Fuel to just hang out and get to know their new friends. If they want to participate in activities, RCCL has just the thing to motivate them, including:

• Theme nights
• Battle of the Sexes
• Scratch DJ Academy
• Dodgeball
• Teen Casino
• Open Mic Night
• Ice-skating – special time for teens
• Talent Show
• Formal Night
• Survivor Series
• Coffee Talk
• Dive-In Movie and Pool Party
• Sneak Peek Backstage
• Unplugged Jam sessions
• Climbing Competitions – for ships with rock wall
• Karaoke

Daytime activities vary – please see schedule onboard your ship.

Nighttime activities – 9pm-wee hours

 

BARBIE DREAM EXPERIENCE

WOW! What little girl wouldn’t love to set sail on a BARBIE DREAM CRUISE?  By the end of May 2013, all ships will have the Barbie Dream Experience for you and your daughter to look forward to.

What is it? 

Girls age 4 to 11 set sail on a Barbie dream cruise complete with fun, fashion and runway moments. This exclusive package will be available for $349* per child on sailings 5 nights or longer.

What does it include?

• Barbie Stateroom Package
  • Complete room décor in signature pink with great take-home gifts
  • Tiaras & Teacups Party
  • Mermaid Dance Class
  • Fashion Designer Workshop – create your own unique designs for your Barbie
  • Fashion Show-Each girl walks the runway and unveils her original Barbie fashion

*The Barbie Premium Experience is $75 on 3-4 night Majesty of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas sailings, and does not include the Tiaras & Teacups Party or the Fashion Designer Workshop.

 

As part of the Adventure Ocean Youth Program, girls can enjoy complimentary Barbie features such as Barbie Movie Night, Barbie Story Time and other themed activities, plus Barbie movies on their stateroom TV’s.

Next week I'll profile Carnival Cruise Lines.

Disney Cruise Line's Children's Programs

One of the most common questions I get asked is, “What cruise line has the best children’s program?” When I first started in this business, there really weren’t many programs out there for kids, and those that had one had very limited hours. I remember having to pick my child up at noon after three short hours in the morning, taking them to lunch, then dropping them off again at 2pm for just three short hours in the afternoon, picking them up at 5pm for dinner, and two hours in the evening, from 8pm to 10pm.

 Nowadays, the programs go from early in the morning to the late hours after dinner, and are even open during mealtimes! Bliss! Below please find information on Disney Cruise Line.  Every week for the next few weeks I’ll profile a few more cruise lines, butDisney takes the cake with their programs, so they get the blog all by themselves!

 Disney Cruise Line

 Perhaps with the most comprehensive children’s program at sea, Disney Cruise Line knows how to entertain children! My 17-year-old teenager even had a fantastic time on the two cruises we were able to take with Disney last year. Below please find a sampling of what they offer:

 3 months to 3 years old:

Flounder’s Reef Nursery (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder)

It’s a Small World Nursery (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream)

  

This program is actually available at an additional charge since it basically involves babysitting for your little ones.

 

Open throughout the day, this program enables parents to enjoy some quality ‘adult’ time while trained Disney counselors care for their little ones.

 

Activities are unscheduled and can vary depending on what your child wants to do. There are programs such as arts and crafts, story time and movie time, plus books and games to keep them busy.

 

The programs vary between the classes of ships.

 

On the Disney Dream and Fantasy, the facility has three distinct zones:

• An Acclimation zone, designed to help youngsters adjust to the nursery
• A main play area, with a 3-dimensional façade of the small world attraction that’s filled with interactive features and hidden delights


• A separate room for naps that is quiet and peaceful

 

The main play area also includes a river pattern along the floor and is surrounded by colorful, kid-sized tables and chairs for toddlers to enjoy crafts, books and games.

  

On the Disney Magic and Wonder, there are two rooms; one for active play and one offering a more relaxed atmosphere.

Flounder’s Reef Nursery includes:

• Baby swings
• Books
• Toys
• Games
• A quiet area, complete with cribs
• Television
• DVD player to show age appropriate DVD’s

 

Prices for all four ships are as follows:

• $6.00 per hour for the first child
• $5.00 per hour for second child in the same family

 

Reservations are required in advance. They can be reserved online prior to the cruise

 

• 120 days in advance for Concierge and Platinum Castaway Club Guests (Past Passengers)
• 105 days in advance for Gold Castaway Club Guests
• 90 days in advance for Silver Castaway Club Guests
• 75 days in advance for all other guests

 

You can also make a reservation during the open house on Embarkation Day on a first-come, first-served basis. Because space is extremely limited, be sure to book early.

 

3 to 12 years of age

This age has the most activities available to them!

There’s Disney’s Oceaneer Club, and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab

 

Oceaneer Club:

Only Disney could create such a whimsical, wonderful place for children of this age to gather and be entertained.

 

As with the Nursery, the different classes of ships have different designed clubs.

 

Disney Magic and Wonder:

Open from approximately 9am to midnight daily, but can vary depending on whether the ship is in port or not.

 

Inspired by Disney’s Peter Pan, the club looks like Captain Hook’s pirate ship, straight out of Neverland. It’s a wonderous setting for children to learn, play and interact with others. There’s an endless supply of toys and games, open seating for arts and crafts, and ongoing Disney movies playing on the TV.

  

Children can enjoy lunch and dinner there, should you wish to enjoy some adult time.

 

The club on the Disney Magic and Wonder includes:

• A computer lab with child friendly computers
• A crow’s nest slide and rope bridge for exploring
• The Captain’s Closet dress-up room
• A dance floor
• A small stage for games and performances
• Multiple televisions

  

Activities may include:

• Toy Story Boot Camp –
• Do-si-do with Snow White – learn the ‘Dance of the Seven Dwarfs’ and then perform it with a special guest
• So You Want to Be A Pirate – Train to be a pirate and come face to face with Captain Hook!
• Mouseketeers in Training – Receive a special inspection from Mickey!

 

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy:

 

The set up includes a central rotunda is the main gathering place and a portal to the other ‘lands’ including:

 

• Andy’s Room
• Monster’s Academy
• Pixie Hollow
• Disney’s Explorer Pod

  

The room’s focal point is a stage area where kids can star in their own theatrical plays, join storytelling sessions and attend special visits by Disney characters, both in person and virtually.

 

The rotunda also has a 103-inch plasma screen for watching movies and for magical interactions with the sea turtle from Finding Nemo. The turtle personally chats with kids during his real-time animated appearances, asking them about themselves and the human world they inhabit.

 

Disney’s Oceaneer Club includes:

• 4 distinctly themed play areas
• A reading area
• Multiple televisions
• A giant TV screen
• Computer banks with child-friendly computers
• A small stage for games
• Play structures

 

Then, the themed spaces bring Disney-Pixar movies to life!

• Monster’s Academy – Based on Monsters, Inc. the centerpiece is an elaborately themed play structure. There are also computers with unique interactive games.
  
  
• Pixie Hollow – Inspired by the series of Tinkerbell movies, this fun, interactive space transports children to the magical world inhabited by fairies. This environment encourages dress-up play, individual craft projects and storytelling.
• 
• Andy’s Room – The world of Toy Story comes to life! Everything around the children is built large scale. They can play with Rex the dinosaur, Mr. Potato Head, and Hamm the piggy bank. The room also features a huge Slinky Dog play structure that kids can climb through.
•  
• Explorer Pod – Children can explore the Nemo Sub – a scaled version of a submarine, inspired by the animated film, Finding Nemo. Within the sub there are 16 interactive computer stations offering fun-filled games, among other activities.
• 
  
  

 

Reservations are not required for Oceaneer Club.

 

Children are invited to enjoy lunch and dinner in the Club should you desire some adult time.

 

Registration on all four ships takes place at an open house on Embarkation Day.

 

Children are able to move between Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab. There will be Youth Activities Counselors available to direct the children.

 

 

Disney’s Oceaneer Lab:

 

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

 

The Oceaneer Lab is designed with a workshop and Laboratory where kids concoct crazy experiments, learn culinary skills and participate in other hands on activities.

 

The Lab also has themed play spaces:

 

• Craft Studio: A creative studio where children can create hands-on arts and crafts projects
• Sound Studio: This interactive area is for children who love music and want to create it!
• The Wheelhouse: This space is all about technology, featuring numerous computers and large, high def LCD screens. This is the place to find a unique Pirates of the Caribbean game exclusive to DCL.
• Animator’s Studio: This is a working animation studio where the children can create original, hand drawn art or learn how to sketch their favorite Disney characters. Kids can even design and bring to life computer-animated characters. 
• Media Room: Children can relax in bean bag chairs and watch movies, play video games or even read a book.

 

There are a wide range of themed activities, too numerous to mention. Because activities are based on interest and maturity level, siblings and friends ages 3-12 can play together without restriction if they wish.

 

As with Oceaneer Club, children can dine here for lunch and dinner.

 

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

 

The Oceaneer Lab on these ships are inspired by Disney’s Toy Story films. The Lab is a futuristic and fun setting starring Buzz Lightyear and other characters from the films. There are multiple rooms, including:

 

• A computer lab with child-friendly computers
• A science lab
• A lounge area
• A reading area
• Multiple televisions
• An endless supply of toys and games, plus Disney movies

 

One of the activities that the children may like is Ratatouille Cooking School, where a specially trained cookie chef teaches the children how to make chocolate chip cookies.

 

As with the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, there are a myriad of activities to choose from, and children are invited to dine in the Lab for lunch and dinner should they wish.

 

With all four ships, children ages 3-12 with special needs are welcome at the clubs and labs. They cannot offer one-on-one care, but will help as best they can. Just check in with the Youth Counselors and let them know your special needs.

 

11 to 14 years of age

 

EDGE

 

Ah, tweens! You can be sure Disney has them taken care of as well. With their own club, the tweens can cruise in style, while having fun with their fellow tween passengers.

 

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

 

On these ships, Edge is a loft-style clubhouse featuring a vast array of high-tech fun. There’s an illuminated dance floor, notebook computers for game playing, plus a state-of-the-art video wall that stretches more than 18 feet long and nearly 5 feet tall. There’s a wide range of activities that changes daily, including a ghost hunt and improv school.

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

 

On these ships, the club is designed as a scaled replica of the ship’s bridge. There’s karaoke, scavenger hunts, and special themed nights, along with video games, television and arts and crafts.

  

There’s a lifelike simulator with interactive buttons that lets kids navigate a virtual ship in and out of various ports of call. There’s an 8-paneled screen that displays the vessel’s movement from all angles, along with LCD ‘windows’ that enable kids to scan the bridge. (There’s a live video feed from the actual bridge!)

  

Edge also boasts:

• Plush couches
• Tables for arts and crafts
• A computer lab with child-friendly computers
• Videogame consoles with the latest games
• Flat screen televisions

  

Kids get to cook and eat their own pizzas, participate in scavenger hunts, and compete in pirate games that challenge them physically and mentally.

  

 

Ages 14-17

 

VIBE

 

Vibe is the teens-exclusive hangout that resembles a rec room in a college dorm, or a hip-urban coffee shop.

 

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

 

• Multiple flat screen televisions
• Videogames
• Board Games
• DVD players
• Bar serving soft drinks and smoothies
  • Soft drinks are free, but smoothies and other non-alcoholic beverages are an additional fee

  

There are plush couches, large-sized chairs, a dance floor, and separate areas where teens can meet with their new friends.

 

Activities include dance parties, karaoke, ghost hunts, talent shows, and other themed parties.

  

Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream

 

The Vibe club on these ships is sleek and trendy, with a coffee bar, DJ/dance area and a media room for video gaming and movie watching.

 

There’s a 103-inch LCD screen with digital surround sound. A lighted, multi-color disco floor and video wall set the stage for day and night dance parties. Aspiring DJ’s can learn how to spin and mix tracks, and aspiring singers can perform at karaoke.

  

These ships also have a sundeck at the ship’s bow that allows teens to enjoy the sun without ever having to leave their private club. There are splash pools, pop jets and misters to help them cool off. This area also boasts deck games such as ping-pong, foosball and old-fashioned board games, along with a life sized checkerboard that’s designed into the floor pattern. 

  

The club has individual nooks where teens can play videogames or watch personal video screens. 

There's something for EVERYONE onboard a Disney Cruise Ship! 

Next week...Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean!

Quantum of the Seas Video

RCCL just posted this AMAZING video of the new ship, Quantum of the Seas!

Enjoy!!

 

 

Luxury Cruise Lines - Comparison of Amenities by Cruise Line

How wonderful to be able to cruise on a Luxury Cruise ship...where everything is included. Or is it? Here is a comparison of different cruise lines that term themselves 'Luxury,' and all that each one offers with the price of a cruise fare.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

This one is the best of the best when it comes to all inclusives...they are the only one (with the exception of river cruises) that offers unlimited Shore Excursions with the price of a cruise ticket. Granted, these are the shore excursions that previously cost less than $200 per person, so if you want one that is more deluxe, you will have to pay for it. But still, it's a great value when you think about it...especially for families. 

Here are the amenities:

Gratuities, unlimited shore excursions, roundtrip air, 1-night pre-cruise luxury hotel package, ground transfers, room service, specialty restaurants, wine and spirits, beverages, open bars and lounges plus in-suite mini-bar replacement daily, welcome bottle of Champagne, interactive flat screen television with extensive media library and complimentary movies-on-demand, in-suite dining served course by course, fitness programs, sauna and steam rooms in the spa, Butler service in Penthouse Suites and higher, which also includes iPad use, iPod docking station.

 Crystal Cruises

Gratuities, alternative restaurants, launderette with free soap and softener, room service, all desserts at ice cream parlor, non-alcoholic beverages, fine wines and premium spirits, open bar service in all lounges, specialty coffees, sushi bar, specialty fitness classes.

Silversea Cruises

Gratuities, alternative restaurants, butler service in all suites, beverages, fine wines and spirits, champagne, specialty coffees, in-room bar and refrigerator stocked with your preferred beverage selections, 24 hour room service and in-suite dining served course by course, shoreside events on select voyages, guided excursions ashore on Silversea Expeditions aboard Silver Explorer, transportation into town in most ports of call.  

Silversea Cruises has recently instituted their Silver Privilege fares, offering guests one fare for their suite, onboard gratuities, complimentary beverages shipwide and in room bars and refrigerators stocked with your choice of beverages. These are guaranteed, so if a lower fare becomes available, Silversea will give a shipboard credit, suite upgrade, future cruise credit, fare reduction or other method determined by the cruise line. Requests must be in writing to the cruise line and PRIOR to the beginning of your cruise. Requests made after the cruise has begun will not be honored, so make sure you have a great travel agent who is willing to price-check for you several times prior to your voyage! 

SeaDream Yacht Club

Gratuities, wine with lunch and dinner, open bar with selected premium brands, water 'toys' including wave runners, glass bottom kayaks, Hobie cats, snorkel gear, water skiing, wake boards, banana boat and floating island, mountain bikes for shore-side exploration, golf simulator, shopping with the Chef ashore, flat screen TV, CD/DVD player with extensive CD and DVD library, iPod docking station, stocked mini-bar with your preferences, laptop computers for use while onboard, binoculars on deck, sauna/steam room, Yoga and Tai Chi classes, Champagne and Caviar Splash in the Caribbean, Wii.

Seabourn

Gratuities, wine with lunch and dinner, open bar with selected premium brands, all dining venues, welcome Champagne, in-suite mini bar stocked with your preferences, in-suite dining, caviar, on select sailings complimentary shoreside experiences, watersports during Marina Day at anchor, Caviar in the Surf beach BBQ's, shopping with the Chef ashore, Concierge service with Seabourn Destinations, Massage Moments on deck, Seabourn's personal shopper, rare estate teas.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Gratuities, beverages including select wines and spirits, soft drinks, bottled water, in-suite bar setup in categories B and above, refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer and bottled water, complimentary kayaking, windsurfing, snorkel equipment and paddleboarding (in select ports), fitness center, all dining venues, room service, welcome fruit and flowers, Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program (on select voyages only.) 

Mass Market vs. Luxury

So, is the price for one of these Luxury cruises worth it? Check out this link on Regent's Seven Seas Cruises website to see some comparisons...in the long run, sometimes these luxury cruise lines work out to be the same or even less than Mass Market! Especially if you are drinkers...umbrella drinks around the pool, glass of wine with lunch, pre-dinner cocktail, wine with dinner, and after dinner aperitif...they can all add up! When they are all included, the savings can be extraordinary. 

Have you taken a Luxury cruise? Is there really that much of a difference? How do you feel on a Mass Market cruise when presented with your bill on the last day? What was your largest bill at the end of a cruise and why? 

 

 

Viking River Cruises Breaks the World Record for Most Ships Christened in One Day!

What an AMAZING sight this must have been! Viking River Cruises christened TEN new Longships this week, all at the same time! Yes, that means 10 Godmothers, 10 bottles of champagne cracked over the hulls of the ships, 10 companies of staff members on each ship...what an incredible sight this must have been!

All ten ships were not at the same place, however. Four of the ship were in Amsterdam, in front of a crowd of about 700, and 6 were via satellite from Neptun shipyard in Germany. But still...10 NEW ships in the Viking River Cruises fleet! That brings their total ship count to 35...not bad for a company that began in 1997. 

The challenge with Viking River Cruises is remembering the names of their ships. These new Longships are no exception: Viking Aegir, Viking Atla, Viking Bragi, Viking Embla, Viking Forsetti, Viking Jarl, Viking Rinda, Viking Skadi, Viking Tor and Viking Var. Try saying that out loud! All ten ships are identical, with 190 passengers in 95 staterooms. There are two Explorer Suites, which are the largest suites on any river cruise, and have a 270 degree view, and seven two-room verandah suites, with full verandahs in their living room, and a French Balcony in the bedroom. There are also 39 Verandah Suites, with full verandahs, and 22 French Balcony Staterooms. But, if you are going to go on a river cruise, go for the FULL verandah! Can't you  just imagine having breakfast on your verandah, overlooking some quaint village on the Danube, Elbe or Rhine River? Sign me UP!

The ships run partially on solar panels, and there's even an onboard herb-garden so the chefs can have fresh herbs for their cuisine. Guests can dine indoors, or outdoors now that the ships are equipped with retractable floor to ceiling glass doors that can be positioned to take advantage of the weather. There's even new energy-efficient hybrid engines that have been built to "reduce vibrations for a remarkably smooth ride." (Thank you to ETN Global Industry News for the above information.)

Next year, Viking River Cruises plans to break their own record by christening TWELVE new Longships! That's 22 NEW ships in the Viking River fleet! There's never been a better time to try a river cruise in Europe...anyone want to join me? LET'S GO!