Cruise: Legendary Danube Cruise

When: August 14^th to 24^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: RSVP/Coda

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Prague

Visits: Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Linz, Melk, Durnstein, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest

Itinerary:

2009 Legendary Danube Riverboat Cruise Rates:

Port Fees of $98 and Pre-paid Gratuities of $98 per person are additional

All rates are per person based on double occupancy.

All staterooms have private bathroom, hair dryer, safe, terry bathrobes, individually controlled air-conditioning and ample closet space.

Stateroom and balcony sizes are approximate.

Information about your Legendary Danube Riverboat Cruise:

On Board

You’ll feel right at home on the intimate and comfortable ms Amalyra for an amazing week. You can choose to enjoy the facilities the ship offers or do what you want. We’re sure you’ll have lots of fun catching some of RSVP’s signature shows!

Here are some activities you might enjoy:

• Work out in the generously designed fitness room
• Get a relaxing massage in the ship’s salon
• Read a book in the Violin Deck’s aft lounge
• Relax in the whirlpool on the ship’s Sun Deck
• Catch up on email from the comfort of your own stateroom
• Enjoy English language TV stations, a large movie selection and a variety of music programs in the privacy of your own stateroom
• Meet new friends at the bar for happy hour
• Enjoy a signature RSVP cabaret act in the ship’s main lounge

On Land

The most interesting attractions on an RSVP riverboat cruise are the picturesque and historical destinations they visit. This itinerary offers endless possibilities for you to visit with just about a dozen different stops:

• Visit Mozart’s birthplace in Austria
• Shop for handicrafts in Prague’s Wenceslas Square
• Sample Wienerschnitzel in its hometown, Vienna
• Sing along with the Sound of Music as you explore the hills around Salzburg
• Get lost in the medieval alleyways of Regensburg
• Drink a local Grüner Veltliner as you cruise down the Danube
• Tour the Vienna Opera House
• Wander the halls and corridors of the massive Benedictine Abbey in Melk
• Watch the world by from an open-air café in Bratislava’s Old Town

The best way to experience Eastern Europe is on a RSVP riverboat cruise. Discovery, camaraderie, style and comfort all come together for the perfect Danube holiday!

Ship Info:

Ship’s Registry: Switzerland

Passenger capacity: 148

Crew: 41

Length: 360 feet

Beam: 38 feet

RSVP will once again return to the Amadeus Waterways Line for riverboat cruises in 2009. Amadeus Waterways has come a long way since its debut in 2002, it has change European river cruising by providing the best in luxury, comfort and style to it’s customers.

The best way to experience the history, culture and allure of Europe’s Heartland is on the ms Amalyra. Staterooms are the largest in the industry, and the ms Amalyra features a lot more balcony staterooms than previous ships. The ms Amalyra manages to create an intimate, small ship ambience that’s the trademark of RSVP riverboat cruises with just 148 lucky guests.

Make new friends over an elegant dinner in the ship’s restaurant, enjoy a signature RSVP cabaret show, or just watch the charming countryside glide by from your own private verandah. On an RSVP riverboat cruise, you’re free to do as much or as little as you want… every day!

Dining

Dining is an integral part of your RSVP cruise. They customize the menus to suit your tastes, and the ms Amalyra’s onboard culinary staff deliver hearty and satisfying fare with their signature European service. You’re free to sit wherever you want and with whomever you want, making it easy to catch up with old friends or make new ones.

Start your day with a gourmet breakfast buffet. Choose from a rich assortment of breads, croissants and pastries, a variety of fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, and smoked salmon. Sample delicious cheeses, cold cuts and local sausages, as well as the ms Amalyra’s daily regional specials. An array of traditional breakfast items is also available from the menu.

You’ll return to a delicious lunch from your shore excursions starting with mouth-watering hot or cold appetizers and homemade soups, then choose from a selection of great entrees and finish off with a sweet dessert and complimentary cappuccino.

In the evening, join your RSVP hosts and fellow guests for an elegant dinner or a traditional theme night with a variety of regional specialties. You’ll enjoy delicious cuisine and complimentary free-flowing wines from the region’s local vintners. With good food, great friends and an elegant setting, your dining experience is sure to be a memorable one.

Staterooms

Nothing feels better than retreating to your own personal sanctuary after a day of sightseeing. Each stateroom on the ms Amalyra is exquisitely decorated and you’ll find all the amenities of a fine hotel, including white-on-white plush bedding, a cozy sitting area, Infotainment System, hair dryer, safe, terry bathrobes, individually controlled air-conditioning and ample closet space. All staterooms on the ship have windows to the outside, and over 82% feature large French balconies, the perfect place to enjoy a quiet moment.

Junior Suites

You’ll find that Junior Suites aboard the ms Amalyra are extra spacious at 255 square feet which is rare on European river cruise ships. They feature a comfortable sitting area with a sofa and two chairs, floor-to-ceiling windows with French balconies and luxurious, extra spacious bathrooms with bathtubs and showers.

Staterooms

All non-suite cabins on the ms Amalrya are spacious 170 square feet. Balcony staterooms have a French Balcony.

Facilities

Whether you want to workout, soak in the hot tub, or catch up with friends over drinks, the ms Amalyra provides a variety of facilities and features for your comfort and enjoyment. These include:

• Fitness room
• Salon
• Whirlpool
• Panorama Lounge
• Well stocked bars
• Monitors, keyboards and Internet access in every stateroom
• English language TV stations, a large movie selection and a variety of music programs in the every stateroom
• ms Amalyra even has an elevator, a rarity on most river cruise ships!

Come on, don’t be lazy.  Hit “read more.”

Today’s young and happening gays and lesbians have a lot of choices, but essentially, the choice boils down to whether the cruise should be an all-gay one, or a gay group on a mainstream cruise. There are advantages to both, and to read a little more on the subject go here. Let’s have a look at who’s who, shall we?

When it comes to all-gay cruises, there are two heavyweights, and a few smaller players, and each have their own advantages. Essentially, what you’re looking at is ginormity, extreme fun, raucousness, common, typical vs. small, individual, unique, luxurious, mature, calm, quiet. Something like this!

Crazy vs. luxurious gay cruises

Atlantis – The 800-pound gorilla of gay cruises. This is reflected in their strong marketing (The Way We Play), but that doesn’t mean that the company is all show and no go. They serve 20,000 people per year, and have booked some incredible ships, including the Freedom of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship! With Atlantis, you can go on the world’s premier ships, enjoy big-named celebrity appearances, dance to the beat of the biggest DJs, and so on. It’s definitely something that gays should try, but the Atlantis experience is perhaps the polar opposite of say, DavidTours – a highly specialized, very unique, luxurious (and expensive) experience. That’s not to say it’s bad, on the contrary, the experience is really “big,” but you have to decide what kind of experience you’re after. In my opinion, the Atlantis experience caters toward the 20something and 30something crowds.

RSVP – While Hanns Ebensten travel is probably the grandaddy of gay travel and gay tours, RSVP could be the founder of the gay cruise. RSVP was also the only competition that Atlantis had, until they bought it out, but they haven’t merged, and Atlantis says it’ll keep them separate and distinct. So far, it has. RSVP traditionally has had more women on their cruises, and they’re smaller, so everything is a little more focused.

Travelpride – They tend to focus on relaxation and luxury rather than all-night partying and underwear parties. This probably caters to people 40+ or younger Bond villain-wannabes, but they do seem to deliver on their premise. By their own account they focus on smaller ships and attention to detail is very high. Mostly, their packages are all-inclusive, of even 5-star luxury hotels along the way. Probably a good way to see Europe, but their upcoming Mysteries of the Black Sea should be interesting.

Olivia – Oddly, this company began as a record label, but today, it is the only big lesbian tour operator. In terms of atmosphere and feel, it’s most similar to Travelpride, so while there are parties and what not, things don’t get as crazy as they might with Atlantis or even RSVP. Olivia too wants to focus on relaxation, sensuality, peace, calm, basically the ultimate lesbian experience.

R Family Vacations – The somewhat famous cruise line Rosie O’Donnell and her partner began, the who point of this cruise is to offer a gay/lesbian cruise that you can bring family along on. If you think about it, the other cruise operators will allow this, but not focus on it. It’s a great way to make long-term like-minded friends, and possibly because of Rosie O’Donnell’s friends, sometimes attracts big guests. Of course, with family on board, don’t expect towel-whipping competitions or banana hammock overload (a good thing), and it won’t be people in white outfits serving you caviar and champagne on a private deck while you listen to your relaxing musical stylings, but in a way, it’s the most mainstream gay/lesbian cruise, and probably has the most mixed, diverse people on board.

Romance Voyages – Offers really exciting destinations that are fairly far off the beaten path as far as cruises go, such as the Nile, Machu Picchu and the Galapagos. If you’re more interested in the destination than the cruise itself, Romance voyages is perhaps the ideal choice for the more explorative gay traveler. Excursions are also excellent and go to very unique places.

That’s about it for the all-gay operators. Next, let’s have a look at some of the larger tour operators. These guys arrange gay groups on mainstream cruises, but to some, this is the best option. Why? You get plenty more cruises and destinations to choose from, all while remaining in the comfort of a gay group without isolating yourself.

Aquafest – This group wants to position itself as the Atlantis of gay group cruises. They claim that the atmosphere on the boats is “conducive to partying,” and of course, have cruises with themes such as Mardi Gras or Halloween. They have two upcoming cruises for 2009, one for Alaska and the other a Halloween cruise to the Caribbean.

Coda International Tours – Along with Pied Piper Travel, Coda is the other big gorilla in gay group cruises and travel. They too have a very focused approach, unique destinations and a very high satisfaction rate. A Danube cruise, Black Sea & Mediterranean cruise and an Aegean cruise are just some of their 2009 packages.

Hanns Ebensten Travel – This agency pioneered gay travel way back in the 70s when being gay was considered a medical condition. So if you’re looking for experience, this place has more of it than anyone on the planet. You can rest assured that the destinations were chosen with experience and knowledge, but wow! Look at some of ‘em! India, Easter Island, Greece, Sicily…

DavidTours – At the high end of travel resides DavidTours. Providing highly customized options, if you want to combine the concepts of gay and luxurious, find a fairly large sum of money and contact these people.

Pied Piper Travel – If Atlantis is the 800-pound gorilla of all-gay cruises, Pied Piper Travel is an 800-pound gorilla of gay group cruises and activities. They have more events planned than anyone, and more than a few of these other guys combined. Being a small, specialized tour operator means that experience and a hands-on approach will be part of the vacation, and that can sometimes offer tremendous value.

Cruise: Luxury Barging in Provence

When: October 18th to 24th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Coda

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Avignon

Visits: St. Remy, St. Etiennes-des-Sorts, Viviers, Orange, Chateau de Grignan, Nyons, La Voulte, Tournon, Valence

Detailed Itinerary:

The Napoléon cruises the Vallée du Rhône between Arles and Tain l’Hermitage, a region full of sophisticated architecture dating back to the Roman civilization and ruins of fortifications, arenas and aqueducts.  The endless vistas of tiled roofs, lavender fields and olive groves are all synonymous with this region.  Excursions are arranged to the wine region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Avignon, Arles, St Rémy, birthplace of Nostradamus and the ancient Roman and Greek ruins of Pont-du-Gard. Travel with friends or come to make new ones over sumptuous meals and superb wines.

Day 1 – Avignon
Upon arrival in Avignon you are met by the Afloat in France guide and transferred to the Napoléon and your cruise along the River Rhône.  A champagne reception gives you a chance to meet the crew.  A late afternoon cruise from Vallabrègues to Arles is your first taste of Rhône River cruising.  After dinner, take a walking tour of Arles, where Van Gogh spent much of 1888-89 painting.

Day 2 – Visit St. Rémy. Cruise to Avignon
Today, visit a traditional 18th century “Provencal Bastide” in St. Rémy for an olive oil tasting.  Lunch on-board. Relax during the afternoon cruise to Avignon and watch the scenery of the Rhône Valley drift by.  Cruise past Le Pont St. Bénézet (the famous Pont d’Avignon) before mooring-up at the quay facing the gate to the walled city. Visit the Pont du Gard, part of the Roman aqueduct that transported spring water from Uzès to Nîmes.

Day 3 – Cruise to St.-Etiennes-des-Sorts. Visit Avignon
A walking tour introduces you to the walled city of Avignon, home of the Popes from 1309-77.  A guided tour of the Palace of the Popes is followed by some time at leisure. Return to the barge where lunch awaits and an afternoon cruise.  Visit Châteauneuf du Pape for a wine tasting before continuing your cruise to St. Etienne des Sorts.

Day 4 – Cruise to Viviers. Visit Orange
This morning your guide takes you on a tour of Orange, an important Roman city dating back to 100 BC.  The historical town contains two of the finest Roman monuments in Europe.  Lunch back on board and continue the cruise to the mooring at Viviers.  There’s time for a leisurely stroll around this charming medieval town.

Day 5 — Visit Château de Grignan.  Visit Nyons.  Cruise to La Voulte
Today’s visit is to the typical Provencal village of Nyons, to visit a working lavender distillery and tour an ancient XVIII century olive mill.  Lunch is taken at a local restaurant in the very scenic village of Grignan.  In the afternoon, visit a truffle farm to learn all about the black diamond and taste this expensive and unusual mushroom.  Rejoin the boat at La Pouzin, to continue the cruise to La Volte.

Day 6 — Cruise to Tain l’Hermitage/Tournon.  Dégustation.  This morning, the chef takes you to discover a traditional French market in La Voulte followed by a leisurely lunch on board.  During this part of the cruise the river valley is flanked by the vineyards of the Côte du Rhône and has a completely different perspective.  Mooring in Tain or Tournon you are escorted to Mr Ferraton’s winery for your last dégustation.  Farewell gala dinner on board.

Day 7 — Valence – disembarkation
After breakfast disembark the Napoléon. You may wish to take the train back to Paris or continue on an extended visit in the south of France.

Pricing info:

DEPOSIT –
A deposit of $750 per person is required at the time of registration.
An interim deposit of $1000 is due February 2, 2009.

FINAL PAYMENT –
Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure and is payable by personal check. Credit card charges for final payment are assessed a processing fee.

SPECIAL CANCELLATION POLICY –
180-91 days prior to departure = $1500 cancellation fee
89-0 days prior to departure = 100% cancellation fee of total trip cost

Other info:

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS –
No visa is required for American or Canadian passport holders.

SHOTS –
None required or recommended. It is recommended you have your regular vaccinations up-to-date before traveling.  For further information, visit the Center For Disease Control website.

INT’L AIRFARE Delta Airlines, Air France, American Airlines are among airlines that can be used for this trip. We recommend booking at least 7 months in advance if you want to try to use Frequent Flyer Miles for free tickets or upgrades or the American Express Platinum card 2-4-1 program.

MINIMUMS –
All departures are guaranteed on a minimum of 2 participants.  A Coda Tour
Manager accompanies the tour on a minimum of 10 participants.  The cruise is gay-exclusively based on selling a minimum of 10 places. The cruise is open to family and friends which constitutes gay-exclusive.

Ship info:

5-star deluxe, 12-guest capacity
The Napoléon is Europe’s finest river cruiser, combining all the amenities of a luxury hotel with the friendly ambience of a country inn. She is beautifully appointed with large picture windows that provide unsurpassed views of the countryside, accommodates up to 12 passengers. 

The Napoléon cruises the Rhône between Arles and Tain l’Hermitage/Tournon; sun-drenched landscapes that inspired the great canvases of Cézanne and Van Gogh.  

A region full of sophisticated architecture dating back to the Roman civilization and ruins of fortifications, arenas and aqueducts that continue to amaze modern engineers.  The endless vistas of tiled roofs, lavender fields and olive groves are synonymous with Provence. 

Excursions are arranged to the wine region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the story book towns of Orange, Avignon, Arles, St Rémy, birthplace of Nostradamus and the ancient Roman and Greek ruins of Pont-du-Gard and Glanum.

Guests  -  Twelve
Crew  -  Six-Seven

Dimensions
Length  -  129 ft
Width (Beam)  -  17.5 ft
Decks  -  3

State Room 1 (upper deck)
Bedroom  -  12′5″ x 7′2″
Bathroom (shower)  -  9′4″ x 4′3″

State Rooms 2 – 6 (lower deck)
Bedroom  -  14′ x 7′4″
Bathroom (shower)   –   8′ x 4′6″

Note: beds are changeable as double or twin

Cruise: 8^th Annual Western Caribbean Halloween Cruise

When: October 25^th to November 1^st, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Aquafest

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Tampa, Florida

Visits: Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Belize and Roatan Island

Basic Itinerary:

Entertainment and Things To Do:

1. Private Gay Shows with Guest Celebrities
   
2. Gay and Lesbian Shows
   
3. Gay and Lesbian Film Festival at Sea
   
4. Gay DJ
   
5. Theme Dance Parties
   
6. Private Group Cocktail Party
   
7. Group Dining
   
8. Wine at Dinner on a Special Night
   
9. Aquafest Cruise Directors
   
10. Gay Olympics and Sporting Events
    
11. Gay Beach Party
    
12. Singles Get-togethers
    
13. Couples Get-togethers
    
14. Lesbian Get-togethers
    
15. Afternoon T-Dance
    

Private AquaQuest Shore Excursion

OUR MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES FOR 2009

HEDDA LETTUCE

Hedda Lettuce is a six-time “HX” drag queen of the year award winner. She has performed at many cabaret venues including “Caroline’s on the Broadway,” “Fez,” “The Showroom at East of Eight” and the “Chelsea Clearview Movie Theater” where she hosts the “Clearview Classic Movie Night.” She is also the creator of the popular drag country singing trio – The “Dixie Chixs With Dixs.”

Hedda’s screen credits include “To Wong Foo,” “Flawless,” with Robert Dinero, “The Look,” with Carol Alt and a handful of independent films. She has appeared in popular television shows; “Sex in the City,” “Oprah” and recently made an appearance on “20/20″ with Barbara Walters. Hedda’s Theater experience includes the off-Broadway show; “Servicemen,” directed by Sean Mathias and “Sleeping With Straight Men,” starring Hedda Lettuce and John Waters favorite actress; Mink Stole. Hedda has also produced many off-Broadway shows including; “Sex, Lies and Duct Tape; Hedda’s Christmas Show,” “Lettuce Rejoice” and her standup tour deforce; “Miss Lettuce If You’re Nasty!”

In addition she has hosted high profile charity events such as “Broadway Bares,” “The HX Awards” and has performed on stage with Joy Behar, Joan Rivers, Caroline Rhea and in 1999 with Madonna for the “MTV Music Awards.” Hedda just finished a 4-month run of her one woman show; “Meet the Lettuce Family” in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Hedda just appeared as a special guest on “Project Runway.”

REINA

Headline Performer

Taking center stage by storm, Robbins Entertainment/BMG recording artist, Reina hasn’t skipped a beat since her debut blockbuster; “Find Another Woman” hit the airwaves back in1999. In just a few weeks this song catapulted to #2 on Billboard’s Dance Chart.

In 2003 her hit song “No One’s Gonna Change You”, crossed over and entered Billboard’s Top 100 Chart. Fast forward to June 1st, of 2004 and her new single “If I Close My (Everything Will Be Alright)” was debuted at radio and within weeks the record soared to the top of the music charts. She performed the song live on the Regis & Kelly talk show on ABC, and her debut album This Is Reina was released on October 26, 2004.

With a five and a half octave range, Reina has captivated audiences throughout the country. At WKTUS Beat Stock Concerts she sang for over 31,000 adoring fans. In addition to singing, this 27-year-old charismatic New Yorker from the Bronx is a proficient songwriter. She co-wrote her single “Anything For Love” and upon hearing this song, Donna Summer was impressed enough to enlist Reina to write for her.

Her fans have expressed that “Find Another Woman” prompted them to leave bad relationships, and that the song is as empowering as the 70’s hit “I Will Survive”. She earned a nomination for Best New Artist at The Winter Music Dance Conference and was featured on Seventeen Magazine’s “New Star Showcase”.

JULIE GOLDMAN

Headline Comic

When Julie was 15, she was at a Jewish youth group convention where her soon to be first comedy mentor, Tony V., was performing. She was enrapt with him and asked how she could do stand up. He told her to come to the Comedy Connection and do 5 minutes. She did and the rest is history in her own mind.

DJ JST

Headline DJ/Producer

DJ JST (a name derived from his initials, but pronounced gist) is a classically trained violinist and graduate from the University of Michigan, School of Music. In 2004 after working in Information Technology for several years, he decided that it was time to bring his focus back to music and pursue a career that he could be passionate about.

In 2008 His remixes for Lauren Hildebrandt, Jenna Drey, Alyson and Erin Hamilton, brought DJ JST to the forefront as one of dance music’s most sought after producers. His remixes for Erin Hamilton’s “Control Yourself” and Alyson “Here With Me” earned him two top 5 hits on Billboard’s Dance Club Chart.

Now working on some exciting new production and collaboration projects in the studio, DJ JST is well on his way to becoming one of the hottest commodities on the DJ circuit. Stay tuned for his first full length album which is scheduled for release Spring 2009.

DJ – Michael Kessler

Pricing Info:

Other Info:

What’s Included:
All meals except for alternative (additional fee) reservation restaurants, entertainment, and accommodations aboard ship for the duration of the cruise as well as all advertised Aquafest Events.

What’s Not Included:
Tipping, items of a personal nature, alcoholic beverages, gift shop and spa purchases, gambling, optional shore excursions, airfare, air taxes, and /or local transfers to the port of embarkation/disembarkation. Non-discountable fees and taxes are additional. A $30.00 booking processing fee is additional and subject to change without notice.

Non-discountable fees and taxes: Port Charges (Non-Discountable fees) are $159.00 & Government Taxes are $71.89 per person based on double occupancy and subject to change without notice. Fees, taxes, and any surcharges imposed by the cruise line are subject to change without notice. Charges vary for single, triples, and quads. Ask for details.

Cruise Line Cancellation Penalties:
[Varies by sailing]

75-57 days prior to departure- deposit amount

56-29 days prior to departure- 50% penalty

28-16 days prior to departure- 75% penalty

15 days or less prior to departure- 100% penalty

Aquafest Cancellation Penalties:

Bookings cancelled from date of booking to 90 days before sailing: Aquafest cancellation fee- $50 per person

Bookings cancelled 90 days to day of sailing: Aquafest cancellation fee – $300 plus Cruise Line cancellation fee – see above.

Bookings cancelled 60 days to day of sailing: Aquafest cancellation fee – $300 plus Cruise Line – see above

Aquafest cancellation fee will be charged to your credit card and will appear on your statement as CruiseCenter.

Documentation Requirements:

It is the passenger’s responsibility to determine and provide proper identification, documentation (including passport and visas if required), and inoculations for the destinations to which he/she is traveling. The traveler should verify requirements well in advance of travel to insure compliance. Passengers who do not meet these requirements will be denied boarding by cruise lines and airlines. CruiseCenter/Aquafest is not responsible for providing documentation and inoculation information.

Disclaimer: All advertised events are exclusive to guests who book through Aquafest only. Aquafest Cruises are group events and not chartered vessels. Events based on a minimum of 30 group passengers. All rates are cruise only and per person, based on double occupancy subject to availability at time of booking. All rates include Aquafest special event fee. Non-discountable fees and taxes, airfare, air taxes and transfers are additional unless otherwise noted. A $30.00 booking processing fee is additional and subject to change without notice. All cancellations are subject to a minimum $50+ per person cancellation fee from Aquafest (see Aquafest Cancellation Penalties above) in addition to any vendor cancellation penalties. Event details, pricing, port charges, taxes, fees and surcharges are subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to correct errors.

Trip Cancellation Insurance: We strongly recommend trip cancellation/interruption insurance for all reservations. More information will be provided to you at the time of booking.

Detailed Itinerary:

Ship Info:

Every one of Carnival’s “Fun Ships”® is a unique floating resort designed with your fun in mind. Venture out of your spacious stateroom and experience the outdoor areas, wonderful restaurants, friendly casino, relaxing lounges, invigorating spa, exciting nightclubs and duty-free shopping. Come aboard and see for yourself.

Inside Staterooms

Cabin Name: Interior Guarantee

Category: IS

Description: Guaranteed minimum interior stateroom category or better. Stateroom might be assigned at check-in only. Stateroom location or upgrade not guaranteed. Restrictions apply.

Cabin Name: Interior Stateroom with Upper/Lower

Category: 1A

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Interior Stateroom

Category: 4A

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Interior Stateroom

Category: 4B

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Interior Stateroom

Category: 4C

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Interior Stateroom

Category: 4D

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Interior Stateroom

Category: 4E

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Oceanview Staterooms

Cabin Name: Oceanview Guarantee

Category: OV

Description: Guaranteed minimum oceanview stateroom category or better. Stateroom might be assigned at check-in only. Stateroom location or upgrade not guaranteed. Restrictions apply.

Cabin Name: Ocean View Stateroom with French Doors

Category: 5A

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Ocean View Stateroom

Category: 6A

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Balcony Staterooms

Cabin Name: Balcony Guarantee

Category: BL

Description: Guaranteed minimum balcony stateroom category or better. Stateroom might be assigned at check-in only. Stateroom location or upgrade not guaranteed. Restrictions apply.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 7A

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8A

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8B

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8C

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8D

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8E

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8F

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8G

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8H

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 8I

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Cabin Name: Balcony Stateroom

Category: 9A

Description: Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.

Suite Staterooms

Cabin Name: Suite Guarantee

Category: ST

Description: Guaranteed minimum suite stateroom category or better. Stateroom might be assigned at check-in only. Stateroom location or upgrade not guaranteed. Restrictions apply.

Cabin Name: Suite

Category: 11

Description: These extra-large accommodations have a separate sitting area and a private balcony. Special features include a large vanity/dressing table, refrigerator and entertainment area, VCR, whirlpool bath and walk-in closet.

Cabin Name: Penthouse Suite

Category: 12

Description: These extra-large accommodations have a separate sitting area and a private balcony. Special features include a large vanity/dressing table, refrigerator and entertainment area, VCR, whirlpool bath and walk-in closet.

Carnival Legend Onboard Services

Tipping Policy

Additional for all guests.

Onboard Ambiance

Fun, casual, no shorts at night, 2 formal dinners

Public Rooms

1. Number of Lounges/Bars 16
   
2. Library
   
3. Conference Center
   
4. Internet Center
   
5. Chapel / Wedding Chapel
   

Stateroom Amenities

1. Television / Radio
   
2. In-Stateroom Movies
   
3. Private Safe
   
4. VCR
   
5. Direct Dial Phone
   
6. Hair Dryer
   
7. Minibar / Refrigerator
   

Entertainment

1. Show Lounge Follies Showlounge: Capacity 1,167. Experience the music, dancing, lights and costumes that make these spectacular stage shows nothing less than extravaganzas.
   
2. Casino The Club Merlin features all the popular games you would see at any fine casino.
   
3. Disco
   
4. Card Room
   
5. Game Arcade
   
6. Other Live Entertainment Facilities
   

Other Facilities

1. Elevators 12
   
2. ATM 1
   
3. Beauty Salon Spa Carnival features a variety of beauty treatments for both men and women, including: facials, loofah treatments, manicures, pedicures and hairstyling.
   
4. Duty-free Shops
   
5. Photo Processing Shop
   
6. Tuxedo Rental
   
7. Self-Service Laundromat
   
8. Concierge Desk
   
9. Infirmary / Medical Center
   
10. Safe Deposit Boxes
    
11. Dry Cleaning/Laundry
    

Sports, Health & Fitness

1. Outdoor Swiming Pools 4
   
2. Full Service Spa Ready to relax? Feel the stress sail away as you pamper your body and mind. Soothe sore muscles with a trip to our steam room and sauna. Then, indulge in the ultimate in relaxation with a full-body massage.
   
3. Sauna
   
4. Steam Room
   
5. Whirlpools 4
   
6. Group Fitness Classes
   
7. Weight Machines
   
8. Free Weights
   
9. Cardio Equipment
   
10. Putting Greens
    
11. Jogging Track
    
12. Volleyball
    
13. Shuffleboard
    
14. Ping Pong
    
15. Fitness Evaluation
    
16. Personal Trainer
    

Dining

1. Traditional Assigned Seating
   
2. Number of Seatings 2
   
3. Dining Style: Flexible Dining Options
   
4. Dining Style: Formal Nights and Casual Evenings
   
5. Number of Main Restaurants 1
   
6. Number of Casual Dining Venues  1
   
7. Alternative Specialty Restaurants
   
   • Pizza
     
   • Ice Cream
     
   • Coffeehouse/Pastries
     
8. 24 – Hour Room Service  1 other 24 – Hour Venue
   
9. Special Meal Diets on Request – Advance Noticed Required
   
   • Diabetic
     
   • Low Sodium
     
   • Vegetarian
   • Low Fat

Riviera deck

Promenade deck

Atlantic deck

Main deck

Upper deck

Empress deck

Verandah deck

Panorama deck

Lido deck

Sun deck

Sports deck

Sky deck

Cruise: Jewels of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas

When: July 18^th to 25^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Travelpride

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Venice, Italy

Visits: Rovinj, Split, Dubrovnik, Katakolon, Gythlon, Athens

Detailed Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Picture of a stateroom

Travel Info:

Experience the Jewels of the Adriatic & Ionian Seas with Travelpride!

Discover exclusive and magnificent ports of call aboard a sleek and gorgeous ship that takes you to the out-of-the-ordinary places that huge megaships could never access.  On this cruise, you’ll enjoy an elite, pleasure-packed vacation experience that lets you cruise in singular style to some of the most sought-after destinations in Croatia and Greece.

Sail into ports larger cruise ships can only dream of discovering.

You dream at times of sailing on your own private yacht, venturing to seductive ports of call. You want the privilege of having access to hidden jewels throughout your cruise. We do too. This is why we’re offering to you our Jewels of the Adriatic and Ionian Sea cruise.  Explore the charming waterfront town of Rovinj…the medieval walled-city of Dubrovnik…and the underground lakes in the Caves of Diros in Gythion, plus so much more!

Discover a unique sailing experience with newfound friends.

The Travelpride formula for an unforgettable cruise adventure combines a smaller, more boutique cruise experience with a unique itinerary and the freedom to do as much – or little – as you please.  With only 148 discerning guests, it’s easy to meet new friends you’ll enjoy lasting friendship with long after your cruise with us.

As you stand on her polished teak deck, her sails unfurl…the wind catches…and you’re on your way to the heart-stopping beauty of someof Europe’s most exclusive ports of call.  The motor sailing yacht Wind Star is an elegant ship full of indulgences and amenities to pamper and relax you.  It features a freshly prepared gourmet meals…attentive yet unobtrusive crew…a Water Activities Platform offering complimentary kayaking, and sailing…a pool and hot tub…casino…on board boutique..and the full-service WindSPA, where you can choose to be spoiled with a salt glow, massage, mudwrap or facial.  So whether you’re off discovering exciting ports – or enjoying quiet relaxation in your deluxe stateroom, a Travelpride cruise experience means absolute freedom, romance, luxury, and privilege.

Do as much or as little as you please.

On-board you’ll have the time of your life with an all-inclusive beverage policy, themed Tea Dances, DJ mixed music and videos, and a first-class nightly lineup of live entertainment. Everything is perfectly balanced so that you can enjoy your cruise and never feel exhausted.

And paradise could never look so good without the gracious and pampering service of Windstar Cruise Lines. Windstar’s attentive crew caters to your every wish around the clock. With more than one crew member for every two guests, it’s no wonder they’ve been listed in Travel & Leisure’s 2004 World’s Best Service and Condé Nast Traveler’s 2004 Gold List. Wind Star’s Casual Elegance.

Signaturetainment Series™

1. Our Signaturetainment Series™ is our way of providing you with a balanced array of daily activities, classic tea-dances, informative lectures and nightly entertainment.  It’s our way of helping you make the most of your cruise vacation with us and nix the “need a vacation from the vacation” syndrome.  We like to strike the chord of keeping you entertained, not overwhelmed!  Our entertainment lineup will be announced soon.
2. Welcome Champagne Reception
3. Nightly Entertainment featuring TravelprideSignaturetainers™
4. “TAG TEA” the ultimate way to meet and greet
5. Sailors & Seamen™ Theme Tea Dance
6. Flashback™ Retro Theme Tea Dance
7. Grand Toga Party
8. Informative lectures and Nightly Briefings

Customized shore excursions

Useful pillow gifts

Cruise: A Taste of the Mediterranean

When: June 7^th to 19^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Crystal Gay Group

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Rome, Italy

Visits: Porto Venere, Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Tangiers, Lisbon, Bilbao, Bordeaux,

London

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Detailed Itinerary:

Rome/Civitavecchia, Italy

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 7

Departure Time: 9 pm

Civitavecchia was founded by Emperor Trajan in the 2nd century. Today this port is noted for its fine seafood and attractive monuments. Located 90 minutes away is the Eternal City of Rome. Steeped in 2,500 years of history, Rome was for many centuries the center of Western civilization. It was both the focal point of the Roman Empire and of Christendom. Landmarks such as the Colosseum, Forum, Pantheon, Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Spanish Steps are reminders of the legacy of its rich past.

Porto Venere, Italy

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 8

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

Porto Venere, Italy, has all the essentials of an idyllic medieval town. It boasts two ancient churches, a 16th-century fortified castle, a bell tower built on the ruins of a Roman temple, even a wistful tale of English writers Lord Byron and Mary Shelley Lord Byron, the story goes, had a favorite spot on the rocks at the base of the church of San Pietro where he would pause to find his muse; it was also the place from which he would launch his swim across the bay to San Terenzo, where Shelley would be waiting. While the legend is certainly romantic, Porto Venere’s breathtaking natural beauty is enough to put it at the top of any traveler’s list. Poised on the tip of the small peninsula that extends from the celebrated Italian Riviera, Porto Venere is the southernmost town on the walking trails connecting the five villages that make up the famous Cinque Terre, or five lands. Though not officially a part of the Cinque Terre, Porto Venere should be, and perhaps it would be if it weren’t for its slightly removed location. With its sweeping views, brightly-colored houses, terraced gardens and three small islands — Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto — sitting prettily just off its rocky promontory, Porto Venere is so lovely, one wonders why Shelley did not instead make the swim to Byron.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 9

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Monaco is an ancient principality steeped in rich and colorful history. Its proud monarchy is presided over by Prince Albert, who assumed the throne after his famed father Prince Rainier died in 2005. Today when gazing on its modern skyline, it is hard to imagine that Monaco endured a turbulent past. Once a Greek settlement conquered by the Romans, it was bought from the Genoese in 1309 by the Grimaldis, who still rule as the world’s oldest monarchy. Monaco covers less than one square mile and is known primarily for its Grand Casino.

Barcelona, Spain

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 10

Arrival Time: 9 am

Departure Time: 10 pm

Barcelona, capital of Catalonia, is a celebration of history and heir to Greek, Phoenician, Roman, Carthaginian, Gothic and Arab cultural legacies. Since it is nearly as close to Rome, Geneva and Munich as it is to Madrid, Barcelona has long been the Spanish link to Western Europe. It was the home of Picasso, Miró, Dali, Casals and Gaudí and has been described as a Mediterranean Manhattan, a cosmopolitan experimental center for political ideas and artistic movements.In addition to its abundance of artistic and architectural treasures, Barcelona serves as the gateway to one of the world’s most impressive mountainside enclaves at Montserrat. Discover the secret legends of the Black Virgin and the alluring chants of monastic life high atop the Catalonian plains. Barcelona’s ancient city walls and the narrow crooked streets of the town’s old section are laid out for your discovery. You will find that Barcelona has something for everybody.

Cruising the Mediterranean Sea

Cruise: 9213

Your Day at Sea Enrich. Entertain. Escape.

Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish: pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at our state-of-the-art fitness centeror Walk-on-Water along our 360^o Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills at our Computer University@Seaor learn about art, history and worldly destinations with our engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chiand yoga to PGA golfinstruction and paddle tennison full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of NobuMatsuhisa, PieroSelvaggioand Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance clubor our action-packed Crystal Casino. The choices are yours.

Tangiers, Morocco

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 12

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 1 pm

Situated at the western entrance of the Strait of Gibraltar, the Moroccan city of Tangiers is not only where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, but is also where empires have met to fight and conquer. Founded by Carthaginian colonists in the 5th century BC, Tangiers later came under Roman rule, became part of the Byzantine Empire, fell under Arab control and eventually found itself at the center of a tug of war between Portugal and Spain. Even England came into the picture, as Tangiers was given to Charles II as part of the dowry from the Portuguese Infanta Catherine Braganza. Morocco’s interesting past is on display throughout Tangiers and the surrounding area. Museums and souks reveal Moroccan history and vibrancy, while numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites feature ancient ruins and archaeological sites.

Lisbon, Portugal

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 13

Arrival Time: 7 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

Cosmopolitan Lisbon was the center of the world’s last great colonial empire. Today the city nostalgically reveres its imperial past while adapting to Portugal’s role as a member of the European Economic Community. Although located on the Atlantic coast, Lisbon has the soul of a Mediterranean city with Moorish castles, pastel and white buildings, orange-tiled roofs and luminous blue skies. Set amid the hills and valleys of the northern shore of the River Tagus, it is one of the loveliest capitals in the world.

Bilbao, Spain

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 15

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Home of the newly-erected Guggenheim Museum, this bustling city epitomizes the merger of modernity and history. The gateway to the Cantabrico Sea from the plateau of Castilla, Bilbao has flourished from the middle ages as a busy port, and a major exporter of the metals found in surrounding areas. Today, the city flourishes with a vital exuberance, as modern architects erect new buildings next to 19th-century structures.

Le Verdon, France

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 16

Arrival Time: 6:30 am

Departure Time: 8:15 am

A contrast to the lush countryside found inland, the Atlantic coast offers its own kind of beauty with its crashing waves, long stretches of beach and conifer forests. Resort towns dot the coastline, bringing their additional charms to the region. One such place is Le Verdon, sitting at the most northerly point of the Médoc. In its harbor stands the oldest lighthouse in France, the Cordouan lighthouse, which boasts a petite chapel and royal chamber. A short distance from Le Verdon is the seaside resort of Soulac, the “Pearl of the Silver Coast.” The nearly 500 neo-colonial villas built here give Soulac a unique air of history and sophistication. Its morning market, pedestrian-friendly streets and seaside shops and cafes give the village a sense of joie de vivre.

Bordeaux, France

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 17

Departure Time: 2 pm

Bordeaux was at one time France’s richest community and largest port. It is second only to Paris as the country’s most densely populated city. Today it is best-known for its glorious châteaux, mouth-watering cuisine and incomparable wines. It is surrounded by the world’s most famous vineyards including Médoc, St-Emilion, Pomerol, Graves and Sauternes. Crystal Symphony’s sojourn in this world-renowned wine capital is bound to please even the most discerning bon vivant.

London/Dover, England

Cruise: 9213

Arrival Date: June 19

Arrival Time: 8 am

For centuries, Dover has been a symbol of England’s royal fortitude. The port’s legendary White Cliffs have long been a welcomed landmark for seafaring travelers. The solid Dover Castle has faced invasions by Roman, French and even English troops.London’s legendary sights, including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament Square, Whitehall and the fashionable West End, lie just 80 miles from historic Dover.

Travel Info:

Cruise 9213 – A Taste of the Mediterranean aboard “Crystal Symphony”

Theme: Crystal Wine & Food Festival

Captain – EgilGiske

Hotel Director – Josef Matt

Cruise Director – Scott Peterson

Maître D’ – RemiSzutkiewicz

Crystal Society Host/ess– Kellie Hachten

Cruise Sales Consultant – Paula Jean Pfitzer

Headline Entertainers – Mark Haslam, Magician – Min Kwon, Classical Pianist – Jacqui Scott, Vocalist – Kenny Smiles, Comedian

A cappella Quartet “Full Sail” – Christopher Norton , Henry O’Neill, Joseph Sark, Joseph Torello

Lounge Pianists – David Williams, Avenue Saloon, Scott Mitchel, Crystal Cove

Production Shows – Featuring the Crystal Ensemble of Singers and Dancers – Cole,
Curtain Call, Million Dollar Musicals, Route 66, The Envelope Please (Please note: not all shows are performed on all cruises).

Crystal Visions Enrichment Program

Destination Lecturer – Dr. Jay Wolff (Naples, FL)

Dr. Jay Wolff took his undergraduate and doctoral degrees at Georgetown University in Washington DC. A member of the faculty of Florida Gulf Coast University’s Renaissance Academy and elected a member of the British Royal Society of Health, he has published more than a hundred articles on history and culture in professional journals as well as American Heritage, Forbes, American Legacy, The Washington Post and The L.A. Times. He has been a commentator on The History Channel and is an enthusiastically received destination lecturer who brings history to life with stories of the people and events that changed the world.

Special Interest Lecturer: World Affairs – Brigadier General Nick Halley (Napa, CA)

General Nick Halley is a recognized expert on leadership, terrorism, change management and integrity. His leadership expertise was learned and developed under the most stressful conditions – combat. His impressive background as a senior leader in the military, government and corporate worlds include: an Engineering Degree from West Point, Nuclear Physics Masters Degree from the University Of Virginia, Commander of soldiers in three conflicts-Vietnam, Grenada and Desert Storm (Iraq).

*Theme Presentation: Wine & Food Festival

Theme Lecturer – Nancy Harmon Jenkins

Nancy Harmon Jenkins – Food writer, journalist and historian with primary expertise in Mediterranean cultures and cuisines, and secondary strong interests in sustainable agriculture and farm-to-market connections. Her latest book, Cucina Del Sole: A Celebration of Southern Italian Cooking joins her other highly regarded titles covering Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, including The Essential Mediterranean, Flavors of Tuscany, The Flavors of Puglia, and The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook. Nancy also writes for national publications, including the New York Times, Saveur and Food & Wine Magazine. She also works closely with the Culinary Institute of America, leading tours to Italy & Spain for the CIA’s Worlds of Flavor Program and Viking Life Culinary Tours.

Guest Chef – Carmelo Chiaramonte

Carmelo Chiaramonte brilliantly interprets his native Sicily’s culinary traditions with typical Mediterranean ingredients, including Arab, Norman, and Spanish influences. Carmelo is the head chef of the Katane Palace’s restaurant in the beautiful city of Catania, Sicily and has also worked as a food stylist, artistic director of gastronomic events, television author for RAI television since 2000, and a freelance journalist.

Wine Expert – Leslie Sbrocco

Leslie is an Epicurious.com columnist, contributor to WineReview Online, San Francisco Chronicle, wine book author, Wine for Women, Simple & Savvy Wine Guide, co-founder of WineToday.com (wine site of the NY Times company), wine competition judge, wine consultant for Harry & David, Kimpton Hotel Group, and Virgin America Airlines, Emmy award-winning host of Check Please! and expert on other TV shows and a sought-after speaker.

Modern American Mixologist – Dale DeGroff

#1 Mixologist in the world and author of The Essential Cocktail and The Craft of the Cocktail, and founding President of the Museum of the American Cocktail. Dale is considered to be the pioneer of the modern mixologist movement, which reinvents classic cocktails with a gourmet, chef-like approach, using fresh and exotic ingredients. DeGroff provides consulting and bar training to beverage companies, hotels, and leading restaurants, and is a partner in Beverage Alcohol Resource, a provider of training and credentialing in distilled spirits and mixology.

The Crystal Cruises Creative Learning Institute –

Our innovative series of complimentary interactive classes created to enhance our guests quality of life in the areas of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology, Lifestyle, Wellness and Wine & Food. Guests receive a certificate of completion at the end of the curriculum.

Arts & Entertainment –

Passport To Music presented by Yamaha and Crystal Cruises: Instructor Lori Rhoden (Muncie, IN) teaches an innovative and fun course as an introduction to keyboard playing for adults. Tradition and technology meet in harmony to create this progressive piano-style program. With an emphasis on hands-on learning using Yamaha’s exciting portable keyboards supported by the Clavinova digital piano, guests learn nearly a dozen songs during the cruise. An overview of general musical skills, including listening skills and note reading is included, as well as fun group activities such as music trivia and name that song. Passport To Music is designed for those with little or no previous keyboard experience.

Odyssey Art At Sea Instructor – Kristina Nugent (Carlsbad, CA)

Computer University@Sea –

Senior Attendant TBA plus Instructor Alana Sowman (Los Angeles, CA). Our popular Computer University@Sea program: expanded curriculum of complimentary lectures and classes on a variety of computer-related topics, plus e-mail instruction in our computer center, equipped with 25 state-of-the-art workstations, all equipped for e-mail and Internet access (fees apply).

Lifestyle –

Berlitz Foreign Language Instruction: French classes, focusing on basic vocabulary and phrases to help guests communicate in foreign countries, are taught by certified Berlitz Language instructor TBA.

Wellness –

Crystal Cruises’ exclusive Walk-on-Water program features The WALKVEST® Training System which revolutionizes walking simply by adding resistance (added weight) to your walk.

Golf Teaching Professional – TBA

Conducts our exclusive program featuring TaylorMade, the best performance golf company in the world and #1 driver in golf.

ACBL Bridge Instructors – Roseanne and Gerald Levinson (Marblehead, MA) Beginner and intermediate bridge classes, and afternoon games.

Catholic Clergy – TBA

Dance Team/Instructors – Mark Sasnovski and LizlJooste (Houston, TX) Daily dance classes on sea days and private lessons by appointment.

Ambassador Hosts – Al Albero (San Francisco, CA), Monty Dennison (Seattle, WA), Peter Grant (Cheam, Surry, UK), Harold Torello (Hollywood, FL)

Cruise: 7 Night Alaska Gay Explorer Cruise

When: September 25^th to October 2^nd, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Aquafest

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Seattle, Washington

Visits: Alaska

Basic Itinerary:

Detailed Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Other Info:

What’s Included:
All meals except for alternative (additional fee) reservation restaurants, entertainment, and accommodations aboard ship for the duration of the cruise as well as all advertised Aquafest Events.

What’s Not Included:
Tipping, items of a personal nature, alcoholic beverages, gift shop and spa purchases, gambling, optional shore excursions, airfare, air taxes, and /or local transfers to the port of embarkation/disembarkation. Non-discountable fees and taxes are additional. A $30.00 booking processing fee is additional and subject to change without notice.

Non-discountable fees and taxes: Port Charges $235.00 (Non-Discountable fees) & Government Taxes are $128.02 per person based on double occupancy and subject to change without notice. Fees, taxes, and any surcharges imposed by the cruise line are subject to change without notice. Charges vary for single, triples, and quads. Ask for details.

Cruise Line Cancellation Penalties:
[Varies by sailing]

75-57 days prior to departure- deposit amount

56-29 days prior to departure- 50% penalty

28-16 days prior to departure- 75% penalty

15 days or less prior to departure- 100% penalty

Aquafest Cancellation Penalties:

Bookings cancelled from date of booking to 90 days before sailing: Aquafest cancellation fee- $50 per person

Bookings cancelled 90 days to day of sailing: Aquafest cancellation fee – $300 plus Cruise Line cancellation fee – see above.

Bookings cancelled 60 days to day of sailing: Aquafest cancellation fee – $300 plus Cruise Line – see above

Aquafest cancellation fee will be charged to your credit card and will appear on your statement as CruiseCenter.

Documentation Requirements:

It is the passenger’s responsibility to determine and provide proper identification, documentation (including passport and visas if required), and inoculations for the destinations to which he/she is traveling. The traveler should verify requirements well in advance of travel to insure compliance. Passengers who do not meet these requirements will be denied boarding by cruise lines and airlines. CruiseCenter/Aquafest is not responsible for providing documentation and inoculation information.

Disclaimer: All advertised events are exclusive to guests who book through Aquafest only. Aquafest Cruises are group events and not chartered vessels. Events based on a minimum of 30 group passengers. All rates are cruise only and per person, based on double occupancy subject to availability at time of booking. All rates include Aquafest special event fee. Non-discountable fees and taxes, airfare, air taxes and transfers are additional unless otherwise noted. A $30.00 booking processing fee is additional and subject to change without notice. All cancellations are subject to a minimum $50+ per person cancellation fee from Aquafest (see Aquafest Cancellation Penalties above) in addition to any vendor cancellation penalties. Event details, pricing, port charges, taxes, fees and surcharges are subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to correct errors. Please contact us for a more detailed description of restrictions, cancellations, and penalties. Information and pricing are subject to change without notice. All cancellations are subject to a $50 per booking cancellation fee from Aquafest in addition to any vendor cancellation penalties. Trip Cancellation Insurance is strongly recommended for all reservations. More information will be provided to you at the time of booking confirmation.

Trip Cancellation Insurance: We strongly recommend trip cancellation/interruption insurance for all reservations. More information will be provided to you at the time of booking.

Entertainment and Things To Do:

1. Private Shows with Guest Celebrities
2. Gay and Lesbian GayMe Shows
3. Gay and Lesbian Film Festival at Sea
4. Gay DJ
5. Theme Dance Parties
6. Private Group Cocktail Party
7. Group Dining
8. Wine at Dinner on a Special Night
9. Aquafest Cruise Directors
10. Gay Olympics and Sporting Events
11. Gay Beach Party
12. Singles Get-togethers
13. Couples Get-togethers
14. Lesbian Get-togethers
15. Afternoon T-Dance

Private AquaQuest Shore Excursions

OUR MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES FOR 2009

HEDDA LETTUCE

Hedda Lettuce is a six-time “HX” drag queen of the year award winner. She has performed at many cabaret venues including “Caroline’s on the Broadway,” “Fez,” “The Showroom at East of Eight” and the “Chelsea Clearview Movie Theater” where she hosts the “Clearview Classic Movie Night.” She is also the creator of the popular drag country singing trio – The “Dixie Chixs With Dixs.”

Hedda’s screen credits include “To Wong Foo,” “Flawless,” with Robert Dinero, “The Look,” with Carol Alt and a handful of independent films. She has appeared in popular television shows; “Sex in the City,” “Oprah” and recently made an appearance on “20/20″ with Barbara Walters. Hedda’s Theater experience includes the off-Broadway show; “Servicemen,” directed by Sean Mathias and “Sleeping With Straight Men,” starring Hedda Lettuce and John Waters favorite actress; Mink Stole. Hedda has also produced many off-Broadway shows including; “Sex, Lies and Duct Tape; Hedda’s Christmas Show,” “Lettuce Rejoice” and her standup tour deforce; “Miss Lettuce If You’re Nasty!”

In addition she has hosted high profile charity events such as “Broadway Bares,” “The HX Awards” and has performed on stage with Joy Behar, Joan Rivers, Caroline Rhea and in 1999 with Madonna for the “MTV Music Awards.” Hedda just finished a 4-month run of her one woman show; “Meet the Lettuce Family” in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Hedda just appeared as a special guest on “Project Runway.”

JENNA DREY

Headline Performer

Jenna is one of the fastest rising stars on the pop music scene with a three-octave and has some of the best dance hits and ballads. This is one act you won’t want to miss.

Stunningly beautiful glaciers … towering snow-capped mountains … spectacular wildlife … lush rainforest … and mile after mile of pristine coastline. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve holds such a wealth of natural wonders, you’ll find endless opportunities for discovery and adventure here.

Join Aquafest for our sixth annual Alaska cruise on the ms Zaandam as we cruise the last Frontier.

Aquafest is pleased to offer the lowest rates, GLBT Celebrity entertainment, and events on this exciting September cruise. The weather in Alaska is beautiful during September and there are more whale sightings during this period. We hope you will join us for the BEST GLBT Alaska group event for 2009!

The luxurious new ms Zaandam is one of the newest members of Holland America’s “next generation” of cruise ships. The Zaandam reflects a graceful combination of classic and state-of-the-art features found on board both the ms Rotterdam flagship and the Statendam-class vessels. Special features include an alternative restaurant, Internet Cafe, a third staircase for convenient access to public rooms, as well as more of the popular mini-suites with verandahs. The Zaandam’s predominant theme is music and will be featured in the ship’s artwork and interior design elements.

Ship Info:

Public Areas:

Rotterdam Dining Room
Features impeccable service and an extensive wine list. Five-course menus include continental cuisine, vegetarian and low-carboptions .

Pinnacle Grill
This intimate reservations-only venue offers an elegant, sophisticated dining experience. Featuring premium Sterling Silver beef, inspired seafood dishes and many select wines rated “Excellent” by Wine Spectator – as well as distinctive Bvlgari china, Riedel stemware and Frette linens.

Lido Restaurant
offers a relaxed ambiance for all three meals and features a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties.

The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine Magazine
Our state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen offering interactive gourmet cooking lessons taught by our own Master Chefs or culinary guests.

Explorations Cafe, powered by The New York Times
A comfortable, coffee house environment where you can browse through an extensive library, surf the Internet and check email or simply read the morning paper.

Greenhouse Spa &Salon
Features heavenly beauty and wellness rituals. Enjoy a facial, hot stone massage, steam in a thermal suite and have your hair and nails done for a special evening.

Mondriaan Show Lounge
Features talented vocalists, dancers, illusionists, comedians and variety acts.

Crow’s Nest
Offers sweeping 270 degree views during the day, and a hip, fashionable nightclub each evening.

Cruise: LA to Mexico Cruise

When: October 18^th to 25^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Atlantis

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Los Angeles, California

Visits: Mexico

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Other Info:

Bigger. Newer. Cheaper. Atlantis biggest party of the year takes a new direction in 2009 as we sail the spectacular 3200-passenger Mariner of the Seas from Los Angeles to the best of Mexico. Sail our classic itinerary on a bold new ship, featuring an indoor ice rink, massive sports deck, endless outdoor spaces, and so much more. All from convenient LA to the best beaches in Mexico, starting at just $949!

There’s no better ship for an all-gay cruise than the Mariner of the Seas, the largest ship to sail the Pacific. Designed for adventure and excitement with some of the most amazing features ever seen on a ship – a rock-climbing wall, in-line skating track, and ice-skating rink. There’s a five-story theater, an authentic 50’s diner, a world-class casino, a spectacular three-story restaurant, and an indoor promenade the length of two football fields! Our 138,000-ton nautical wonder has it all, and all of it ours for a complete reinvention of our most popular cruise of the year.

The Best in the West

Our custom itinerary takes you to Mexico’s most alluring beach cities and resorts. Captivating, gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta charms with a wealth of natural beauty, with plenty of time to enjoy the incomparable gay nightlife during our overnight visit. Mazatlan’s colonial streets are perfect for afternoon shopping. Dive, fish, or snorkel in beautiful Cabo San Lucas, or relax on an uninhabited beach. There’s plenty of time to experience it all, and three magical relaxing days at sea to enjoy Atlantis endless onboard activities and entertainment.

New Ways to Play

Welcome to our floating city of entertainment, featuring the most variety Atlantis has ever offered! It all starts with our signature comedians, hypnotist, singers, and more in the three-story theater. Add some special guest stars (past years featured Deborah Cox, Patti Lupone, Roseanne, Jennifer Hudson, Chita Rivera, and Joan Rivers), and our exciting new performers to create a legendary week. Take in a concert in Studio B – a setting unlike any other at sea. There’s even a parade or two in the Royal Promenade, and a fantastic ice-skating show that redefines cruise ship entertainment.

And that’s just the beginning. Throughout the cruise, our original piano bar entertainers, gay musical stars, up-an-coming cabaret acts, and more will entertain you in new and imaginative ways. Try your luck in the casino, watch a film in the cinema, or just enjoy a drink with friends in the Royal Promenade. The options are endless and the choices are easy.

More Places and More Parties

Dance into the Pacific twilight at our themed outdoor T-dances. Revel under the stars as we turn Mariner’s wide-open decks into the largest outdoor nightclub at sea. Our outrageous productions feature concert sound, massive light and laser shows, special guests, and the friendliest crowd you’ve ever seen. We feature the talents of superstar DJs such as Manny Lehman, Warren Gluck, Paul Goodyear, Brett Henrichsen, Wayne G. and more. In addition, we’ll host parties featuring Classic Disco, top hits from the 80s, great divas from the 90s, and so much more.

Some nights we’ll even turn Studio B into a remarkable themed party space. Or invite you to explore a wide range of alternative musical styles in our state of the art nightclub.

Our Friendliest Cruise and Our Best Value

No matter where you come from, or what your interests are, Atlantis creates a friendly all-gay environment that will make you feel right at home. We create an all-gay community where everyone is welcome: old and young, singles and couples, active and relaxed. With 3200 guests onboard, you’re certain to make new friends from all over the planet.

Best of all, we’ve been able to lower our rates for 2009 in virtually every category making this our most affordable cruise in years. Rooms start at just $949 per person, with a wide variety of options for every budget. Our last three Mexico cruises sold out in record time, so don’t delay.

We invite you to join us on the largest ship ever to sail the Pacific – our new home for Atlantis’ friendliest cruise of the year. Easier, bigger, and more fun than ever. Now that’s the way we play.

Excitement, and Unexpected Adventure

Where do you begin? When you step aboard Mariner, you’ll discover a unique world designed for your pleasure, filled with possibilities for the greatest gay cruise in the world. Stroll along the Royal Promenade, a street filled with shops, cafes, and places to relax. Of course we’ll turn it into the world’s friendliest gay street. All of this is a prelude to the acres of beautiful open decks surrounded by sparking pools, a peaceful solarium, inviting hot tubs, and sensational places enjoy the warm pacific breezes and unforgettable sunsets.

Have you ever climbed a simulated mountain, 150 feet above the sea? Or hit the ice and let your inner skater shine as we sail through Mexico. Join a game of volleyball, basketball, or golf in Adventure Beach. Rollerblade along the in-line skating track, or take a jog around the spacious decks.

Get a real work out in at the largest and most complete fitness center at sea (yes, even by gay standards). Featuring classes from yoga to spinning with expert instruction. Afterwards, unwind with a pampering treatment in the full-service two-story spa. And that’s just the beginning.

Meals that Shine

From the sparkling crystal chandeliers in the majestic three-story main restaurant to the intimacy of room service on your private balcony, Mariner offers a myriad of exciting dining options. Six tempting venues invite you to dine, relax, and socialize with friend old and new. Enjoy a spectacularly friendly experience in the main restaurant with open seating and no assigned dining times. You’re welcome to dine whenever you please, with whom you want to, creating the perfect setting to visit with friends old and new. As with all Atlantis cruises, there’s never a dress code, or formal nights.

For a more intimate dinner, try our Italian specialities at Portofino or a premium-grilled steak at Chops Grille. Both offer reservations-only service in an elegant, relaxed setting, perfect for a romantic evening, a first date, or celebration with friends.

The spacious Windjammer Café is perfect for a casual meal or quick bite, with a wide range of western and Asian specialties. Perk up with Seattle’s Best Coffee. Share a glass of wine with friends at Vintages wine bar. Grab a burger at Johnny Rockets, our authentic 50s style diner. Or relax in the comfort of your stateroom, with complimentary 24-hour room service.

Stateroom Sweet Stateroom

No matter how you like to travel, Mariner features a variety of staterooms to make you feel right at home. Staterooms are large and comfortable, with sitting areas, and most feature private balconies. All are furnished with full bathrooms, satellite TV, and telephone. Our suites are truly spectacular, featuring large balconies, stunning décor, and a private concierge to take care of your every whim.

Of course, what truly sets Royal Caribbean apart is their gold standard service. It’s everywhere you turn, ready to anticipate your every need with a smile and make you feel right at home.

Ship Info:

Entertainment

1. Three-Story Theater
   
2. Atlantis’ Signature Entertainment
   
3. Outdoor T-dances & Parties
   
4. Live Music Nightly
   

Pools

1. Two Swimming Pools
   
2. Outdoor Hot Tubs
   

Indoor Solarium

Dining, Cafés & Bars

1. Two-Story Restaurant
   
2. Johnny Rockets® 50s-style restaurant
   
3. Portofino Italian Restaurant
   
4. Chops Grille Steakhouse
   
5. Ben & Jerry’s® ice cream
   
6. Vintages wine bar
   
7. Boleros Latin-theme lounge
   

Themed bars and lounges

Spa, Sports & Fitness

1. ShipShape Fitness Center & Spa*
   
2. Rock-climbing Wall
   
3. Golf Simulator
   
4. Full-size Basketball Court
   
5. In-line Skating
   
6. 9-Hole Miniature Golf Course
   
7. Jogging Track
   
8. Ice-Skating Rink
   

More Things To Do

1. Casino Royale
   

Internet Cafe*

Cruise: Italy, Egypt and Greek Isles Cruise

When: August 29^th to September 7^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Atlantis

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Rome, Italy

Visits: Egypt, Greece and Italy

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Other Info:

Atlantis creates our most original Med cruise yet, with an all-new itinerary featuring the best of Italy, Greek Isles, and Egypt on the most exciting ship sailing today. Discover the wonders of the Pyramids, relax on the seductive beaches of Mykonos, and explore the charms of Capri from the comfort of the new 2800 passenger Celebrity Solstice. Adventure meets outrageous fun as we sail the azure waters of the Med to create Europe’s hottest gay event of 2009.

There are a lot of ways to see Europe, but none offer the diversity of experience as our newest Med cruise. Where else can you see ancient cultural treasures, cosmopolitan cities, breathtaking beaches, and sensational nightlife in one journey? And that’s just the beginning when you sail on innovative new Celebrity Solstice, a ship that will forever change the way you look at cruising.

The Perfect Mix of Land 
and Sea

Our unique itinerary starts in convenient Rome, followed by two relaxing days at sea. It’s the perfect way to get to know the magnificent Solstice, enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine, and let us entertain you onboard. A full-day visit to Alexandria lets’ you experience the Pyramids, sail the Nile, and a host of other adventures. Explore the Greek Island of Rhodes by day and marvel at the city’s magnificent illuminated beauty by night. Revel in the seductive beaches and legendary nightlife in Mykonos, where our overnight stay lets you enjoy it all. Marvel at the cliff-side villages of Santorini, where picture perfect views await at every turn. After another relaxing day at sea you’ll discover the diverse charms of Naples, where you can play like a jet-setter in Capri, take in the awesome ruins of Pompeii, or simply explore this fascinating city. There’s never been an Atlantis cruise with so much to offer!

Atlantis will offer a variety of pre and post cruise programs in Rome and Tuscany, as well as discounted airfares from the USA. Details will be posted soon on this site.

A New Way to Sail

Where would you start if you wanted to raise the bar on the cruise experience? Start with spacious modern staterooms, with clean lines and resort-style amenities. Hire the world’s top designers to create smart, sexy public spaces. Create a variety of restaurants that rival top destinations in New York or London. Reinvent the spa experience to include unique guest rooms and over-the-top treatment options. And throw in a few unique features that you would never imagine, like a real grass lawn growing on the top deck.

The main restaurant is almost entirely white and ultra-modern, with a two-story wine cellar. Plus, there’s an authentic Asian bistro, an Italian steakhouse, a Mediterranean restaurant, and the sophisticated Murano. Featuring Atlantis’ signature open seating and completely casual (lack of) dress code. Seductive lounges and unique gathering spaces offer the perfect place for conversation. All in a relaxed, pampering setting that redefines elegance at sea.

More Entertainment 
in More Places

Solstice features some exciting new entertainment venues, like Celebrity Central and the Sky Lounge, allowing Atlantis to showcase the best in new gay and lesbian talent. The stunning two-story theater stars Atlantis signature gay and lesbian headline entertainers, plus all-new elaborate and sophisticated production shows. As always we’ll continue our tradition of seeking out the best cabaret entertainment in the world to keep you laughing, singing, and amazed throughout the ship and into the night.

The vast open decks of Solstice offer a magnificent space for afternoon t-dances as the sunsets over the Med. At night we’ll create a masterpiece of sound, lighting, and special effects to set the stage for Atlantis’ theme parties and a variety of musical styles. Starring three of the top gay DJs from around the world. Plus, Solstice’s intimate Quasar nightclub provides the perfect place for an alternative sound and our late-night parties.

There’s never been a ship as hotly anticipated as the trailblazing Celebrity Solstice, completely rethought from the ground up. Her fresh new design makes a distinctive statement in virtually every room, with a refined level of elegance. As you stroll among the expansive decks, you’ll experience the rich color palettes illuminated by beautiful natural light, and revel in the extensive amenities and beautiful artwork – all delivered with the attentive service for which Celebrity Cruises is renowned.

Exciting New Spaces from Top Designers

From her magnificent architecture to advances in technology, Solstice leaves traditional cruise ship convention behind. World-class design talents like Adam Tihaney, Wilson Butler and Francis Martin created innovative spaces and a unique trail-blazing look throughout the ship. From the wrap around glass that surrounds the ship to the walls of light in the main dining room, you’ll quickly see why Solstice is unlike any ship ever built.

Her vast outdoor pool deck is filled with teak decks and overhead sails, flowing effortlessly into the massive indoor AquaSpa. Further up, you’ll discover the world’s first natural lawn on a ship – the Lawn Club. It’s a perfect spot for relaxing, sunning, or even watching the unique “Hot Glass Show” of professional glass blowers at work.

Solstice boasts ten uniquely designed lounges and bars, including a Martini Bar with an ice-covered bar, CellarMasters wine bar, and Galleria Tastings for enjoying succulent treats and the occasional impromptu fashion show. Michael’s Club and the Passport bar offer superb intimate retreats for taking a break with friends, and there’s always action in the sophisticated Casino. Quasar, our intimate indoor nightclub, is perfect for Atlantis late-night and early morning parties. But the crown jewel is literally on top of the ship – a vast all-white lounge called Sky Observation Lounge where floor to ceiling windows bring you closer to both the sea and sky.

Modern Dining at It’s Best

No less than ten unique dining options offer a variety of pleasures for a wide range of tastes. The Grand Epernay main restaurant features an amazing two-story wine tower along with stunning ocean views, setting the perfect stage for Celebrity’s fresh multi-course meals. Four specialty restaurants include and Asian Bistro, the spectacular Tuscan Grille Italian steakhouse, and the light Mediterranean cuisine of Blu. And for the most elegant meal at sea, spend a night in Murano for an extraordinary evening of world-class dining, superb wines, and modern elegance.

For a more casual meal, our Oceanview café & bar is open virtually all the time, featuring a variety of buffet choices in a breezy open setting. There’s an outdoor poolside grill for lunch and snacks throughout the day. Have a coffee in Café al Bacio, or a healthy snack in the AquaSpa café. Or relax with friends in Bistro on Five. All of it ready for Atlantis, and designed for the way you like to dine.

As with all Atlantis cruises there is never a dress code, and no assigned dining times. Ever!

A New Kind of Spa

We invite you to lose yourself in Solstice’s deeply indulgent AquaSpa. From soothing treatments to the immersive Persian Garden, you’ll find an atmosphere that will caress the senses like never before. Bask in the soothing tranquility of the AquaSpa Solarium, whose indoor lap pool is surrounded by dancing waterfalls and exceptionally comfortable lounge chairs.

The state-of-the art fitness center features the latest cardio equipment, a full set of weight-training gear, and a variety of challenging classes.

Your Stateroom. Reinvented.

From the veranda to the bathroom to the living area itself, no Celebrity ship has more spacious accommodations than Solstice. They’ve been re-engineered for a modern traveler with better sightlines, simple and comfortable design, and innovative and flexible storage throughout. Over 85% of the ship has verandas, the highest percentage of any ship ever built. And our brand new AquaClass staterooms offer personalized sensory elements along with spa-inspired amenities, all designed to bring a bit of the spa experience back to your stateroom.

Both Concierge Class and AquaClassrooms feature upgraded suite-like amenities. And the sumptuous suites feature butler service and a wide range of pampering festures. See the stateroom descriptions for more details.

Ship Info:

Ship Highlights

Cruise: Summer Grand Baltic Cruise

When: July 22^nd to August 1^st, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Atlantis

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Copenhagen, Denmark

Visits: Germany, Russia, Finland, Sweden, Denmark

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Other Info:

Stunningly beautiful cities, welcoming gay-friendly cultures, and magical nights define Atlantis’ most popular summer cruise. We’ve created a whole new way to discover the Baltic in 2009 with an extended 10-night cruise on the newest and most anticipated ship in the world. Sailing in the height of summer and arriving into Copenhagen for the closing ceremonies of OutGames 2009.

Atlantis brings our most popular European cruise to a whole new level next summer onboard the brand new 5-star Eurodam. Whether you’ve been on several cruises or are sailing for your first time, there are few more exciting places in the world to explore by ship than the Baltic Sea. Our all-new custom itinerary offers you the best of it all, including an overnight stay in Stockholm, plus two full days in awe-inspiring St. Petersburg.

Irresistibly Welcoming

Gay-friendly and charming Copenhagen welcomes us with open arms to the waterways, parks, and castles that have made this city famous. From there we sail to Berlin where a full day and night of adventure awaits with a private train from the port city of Warnemunde. After a relaxing day at sea, you’ll arrive in Tallin, Estonia, a near perfect Medieval town with a fast-growing modern lifestyle.

Two full days (with an overnight) in magical St. Petersburg are the highlight, providing ample time to explore the city’s vast cultural collection of museums, palaces, architecture, parks, and theaters. Our expert guides and outstanding tours offer a variety of options for exploring the city both day and night.

You’ll find Finnish hospitality, a rugged sense of style, and unexpected adventures in the capital city of Helsinki. Explore cosmopolitan Stockholm, the cultural and business hub of Sweden, where our 4 AM departure lets you soak in the many treasures of this magnificent city. After a relaxing day at sea, Aarhus offers an unconventional look at Denmark’s “second city” and insights into the culture and lifestyle of this progressive country.

Finally, Atlantis returns to Copenhagen for the weekend of the Closing Ceremonies of the OutGames, the largest gay and lesbian event in Europe in 2009. We’ll offer access to the final events and ceremonies of this historic celebration, making it the perfect place to extend your stay.

As you may know, most of the cities we’re visiting have strong and visible gay populations. These are not just gay-friendly destinations, they’re some of the most gay-progressive and gay-welcoming places in the world.

A New Style for Atlantis

Holland America’s new Eurodam offers Atlantis a new direction for experiencing the Baltic in absolute comfort and style. Their first “Signature Class” ship features ground-breaking modern design, large comfortable staterooms, a wide variety of entertainment venues, and unique features not found on any other ship. She’s a beautiful, true 5-star ship, and absolutely perfect to return to after a long day of exploring.

Fresh and exciting entertainment abounds, starting with our signature productions in the modern 1000-seat theater. Featuring our Gay Comedy Showcase, unique variety entertainers, Broadway stars, stage productions, and more.

Intimate venues showcase the best in gay and lesbian cabaret talent, including our own unique piano bar singers. Novel cultural options abound, including guest lecturers and a unique Culinary Arts Center presented by Food&Wine Magazine. Of course there’s also a world-class casino and plenty of inviting lounges to meet friends old and new.

Outdoors you’ll find two stunning pool deck areas to enjoy the balmy days at sea, dance at our famous themed t-dances, or join into our poolside activities. At night, the main pool’s “magradome” can be closed to create the perfect setting for Atlantis’ fantastic night parties, starring the world’s leading DJs.

Dining as Beautiful 
as the Scenery

The dramatic two-story restaurant offers soaring views of the ocean and Holland America’s award-winning cuisine. Attentive yet unobtrusive service makes dining an event to savor. As on all Atlantis cruises, we feature open seating and a casual atmosphere with no dress code. There’s never an assigned table or dining time, allowing you to dine at your leisure with friends old and new.

For a special occasion, make a date at Pinnacle Grill for one of the most elegant meals at sea, featuring premium beef and fresh seafood. An exciting taste of Asia awaits you in Tamarind, a fusion restaurant with incredible views of the ocean and a rich, intimate setting.

If you’re looking for something casual, the Lido Grill features offers buffet selections, pizza, and late-night snacks, virtually 24 hours a day. Start your day with an espresso with fresh-baked croissants at the Explorers Cafe. Or stay in and relax with complimentary 24-hour room service.

A Celebration for Everyone

Everyone is always welcome with Atlantis, where you’ll find a friendly setting for singles to meet, parties to celebrate couples, and hosted events for almost every group you can imagine. We pride ourselves on creating not just a cruise, but a unique experience that you’ll treasure for years. Along with the experts at Holland America, we’ll work together to make your experience one of pure magic.

This Baltic cruise promises to be one of the finest new traditions ever created by Atlantis. Our last two sailings sold out in less than three weeks. Join us in 2009 as we take a great experience to an entirely new level.

Ship Info:

Holland America’s new Eurodam marks a new style of ship for Atlantis and a new class of ship for one of the world’s leading premium cruise lines.  This magnificent 2100 passenger ship will impress you with her panoramic ocean views, striking modern design, innovative dining, unique entertainment venues, and spacious accommodations.

The ms Eurodam features 11 passenger decks, a new topside Pan-Asian restaurant and lounge surrounded by panoramic views, an Explorer’s Lounge Bar, a new Italian restaurant adjacent to the Lido buffet, a new atrium bar area, an enhanced and reconfigured theater and a new photographic and imaging center. On the technical side, the ms Eurodam will feature the latest state-of-the-art navigation and safety systems. The vessel will be powered by six diesel generators and propelled by the latest Azipod propulsion technology.

Following in the Holland America Line tradition, the ms Eurodam features an exquisite art collection based on the theme, “The Dutch Golden Age – An Inexhaustible Tradition”. Highlighting works by Dutch masters and contemporary artists, some of the pieces featured include 17th century watercolor maps by famed cartographer Johannes Vingboons, photo realistic oil paintings by artist Jan van ‘t Hoff and The Nightwatch, Two Minutes Later, a contemporary reinterpretation of Rembrandt’s famous painting.

Outstanding and Flexible Dining Choices

The Eurodam marks a new direction in dining choices for both Atlantis and Holland America, with more delicious options than ever before.  As with all Atlantis cruises, there is never an assigned table, dress code, or dining time – you’re always free to dine when and wherever you like.  Please not that some restaurants require reservations and both Tamarind and Pinnacle Grill have an extra charge.

Here are the highlights:

Rembrandt Dining Room: An impressive 2-story classic restaurant, starring impeccable service and an extensive wine list. Five-course menus include continental cuisine, vegetarian and low-carb options.

Pinnacle Grill: This intimate reservations-only venue offers an elegant, sophisticated dining experience. Featuring premium Sterling Silver beef, inspired seafood dishes and many select wines rated “Excellent” by Wine Spectator – as well as distinctive Bvlgari® china, Riedel® stemware and Frette® linens.  The Pinnacle Bar offers the perfect place to meet friends over a glass of premium wine

Canaletto Restaurant: Our new Italian restaurant, open every evening, features fresh made pastas and other fabulous Italian specialities in a casual but sophisticated setting.

Tamarind Restaurant and Silk Den Lounge: A spectacular Pan Asian Restaurant and lounge with panoramic views of the ocean and Lido Pool area.  Open for dinner, with one of the most inviting lounge spaces ever created on a cruise ship.

Lido Restaurant: Our casual buffet is open virtually round-the-clock, with a modern, relaxed ambiance and features a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties.

Explorations Café, powered by The New York Times: a comfortable, coffee house environment where you can browse through an extensive library, surf the Internet and check email or simply read the morning paper.

New And Unique Places 
to Relax

Whether you want to enjoy some private time outdoors or spend the week in a spa stateroom, the Eurodam offers an amazing selection of new choices for total pampering and relaxation.

Main Pool: The striking and modern main pool features plenty of space to relax, swim, and play, with comfortable chairs and cabanas everywhere you turn.  There’s even a full “magradome” roof that can be closed to create an indoor pool space.  At night Atlantis will use this space for our legendary outdoor parties, possibly with the roof closed or partly closed.  We know it’ll look fantastic both day and night!

Lido Pool: A relaxing outdoor pool on the back of the ship, perfect for sunning, relaxing, and taking in the spectacular sights.

Poolside Cabanas: Private cabanas are available to reserve by the day or by the cruise. Available on two decks, they are tastefully decorated, filled with amenities and provide an exquisite poolside retreat.

The Retreat: Your own private oasis located high above the rest…our exclusive Retreat cabanas are the ultimate place to relax surrounded by healthy refreshments and luxurious amenities.

Spa Staterooms: Relaxation…privacy…serenity. These are the hallmarks of the msEurodam’s spacious new Spa Staterooms, located on the Panorama and Observation decks include special spa amenities.

Greenhouse Spa & Fitness Center: The place to go for heavenly beauty and wellness rituals. Enjoy a facial, hot stone massage, steam in a thermal suite.  Sooth your tensions away in the relaxing hydro pool.  And make time for a workout in our state-of-the art fitness center.

Entertainment and Enrichment Venues

Eurodam offers the best variety of entertainment and enrichment options created on a cruise ship sailing today.

The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine Magazine: our state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen offering interactive gourmet cooking lessons taught by our own Master Chefs or culinary guests

Main Theater: Our two-story theater seats 1000 guests and is the focal point of any Atlantis cruise.  Featuring our signature entertainers, HAL’s spectacular production shows, variety acts, and maybe a special surprise guest or two.

Crow’s Nest: A stunning space on the top deck, with sweeping 270° views during the day, turning into an exciting entertainment venue each evening.

Northern Lights:  A modern, intimate nightclub hosting Atlantis’ cabaret stars and late night parties.

Piano Bar: The perfect place to meet friends and enjoy some of Atlatnis’ legendary piano entertainers in a relaxed, comfortable setting.

Screening Room: Take in the best of new gay cinema or a first-run movie as you sink into a leather chair with a drink and a bag of popcorn.

Casino:  More Monte Carlo than Vegas, this sophisticated casino is the perfect place to try your luck .

Spacious and Modern Staterooms

When you do finally return to your stateroom, you’ll enjoy a quiet, elegant retreat, with rooms larger than the most in the industry. Most offer a private verandah and feature the most modern staterooms amenities including flat-screen televisions, large bathrooms with tubs,

Our luxurious suites offer in-room whirlpools, spacious rooms with sitting areas, access to the private Neptune Lounge, and much more.

And should you need anything, our pampering staff is just a phone call away. Let Holland America’s legendary service staff take care of your every need.

On board the ships of Holland America Line you’ll discover a cruise experience that is modern, fresh and appealing – in an ambiance that is timeless and refined.

Cruise: The Galapagos Islands Cruise

When: May 1^st to 11^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Coda

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Quito

Visits: Baltra, Isla San Cristobal, Isla Espanola, Isla Florena, Isla Santa Cruz, Isla San Salvador, Isla Isabela, Isla Fernandina, Darwin Station, Quito

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1 (Friday, May 1): Quito

Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre Airport in Quito, you will be met, just outside customs, by our representatives. Coaches will transport you to the J.W. Marriott. The J.W. Marriott is one of Quito’s finest hotels. Reminiscent of an Incan-stepped temple, the J.W. Marriott is modern and attractive, with a vast atrium lobby, two restaurants, and one of the finest sushi bars we have ever experienced. (In general, seafood in Ecuador is outstanding.) The hotel is elegant and yet country club in feel; there’s no need for jackets orties. Fresh roses are everywhere. There is a sundry shop, but it is best to bring the toiletries and other items you are used to. The outdoor pool area resembles a tropical lagoon. Rooms are spacious, with marbled baths and deep tubs, 110V power, and best of all, breathtaking views of the Andes.

Some tips: Bring comfortable, casual clothes, and good walking shoes. Be sure to brush your teeth with bottled water, since the water supply, while purified, may disagree with your system. The currency of Ecuador is the US dollar (so you will not need to exchange money), and the hotel has an ATM and a small upscale mall.

Day 2 (Saturday, May 2): Quito Shore Excursion

Our trip begins in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, surrounded by the peaks of the Andes. During our full-day tour, we will be chauffeured in air-conditioned, luxury coaches and escorted by professional, English-speaking guides. Lunch featuring local fare is included. Almost due south from New York, Quito is about 15 miles from the Equator. Although the city is about 9,000 feet above sea level, this wanderer, who has the vices of smoking and some extra pounds, was pleasantly surprised that altitude sickness was nonexistent. Everyone is different, but allow yourself to acclimate, and, if you do not try to run a marathon the first day, you should be fine. The weather is also quite mild. Ecuadorians say they have only two seasons: rainy (October to early May) and dry (May through September). Both are temperate. Quito was first settled in pre-Columbian times, when ancient Indians built an empire ultimately ruled by the Incas. Around 1526, the natives destroyed their own city rather than surrendering to the invading Spanish, and after the fires, the only remains were stone foundations of Incan temples, which the Spanish used to build their own churches, convents, and monasteries. Despite earthquakes, Quito is one of the best preserved Latin American cities, and our tour takes you to the best the city offers. Quito is home to extraordinary colonial Spanish architecture referred to as Latin American Baroque. In Casco Colonial, the old town of Quito, historical multi-colored buildings, iron balconies, and red-tiled roofs offer examples of this beautiful style, which in part earned it World Historical Site status by the United Nations in 1978. One of the finest examples of Latin Baroque is the 16th-century La Compañia de Jesus, a Jesuit church that took 163 years to build and is considered the most beautiful in South America. Its interior is coated in over a ton of pure gold leaf and lavishly painted with religious art, giving rise to its nickname, Quito’s Sistine Chapel. We will also visit the historic Virgin of Quito and The Plaza and Monastery of San Francisco, as well as La Basilica, which was finished in the early 20th Century. Although one would not know by looking, the Basilica—decorated with hundreds of turtle-, iguana-, and dolphin-shaped gargoyles–is entirely concrete. Next, we will visit Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), where you can take the ubiquitous snapshot of yourself straddling the Equator, simultaneously standing in both hemispheres. The entire park is nestled at the foot of the immense Andes Mountains, so there are stunning views in every direction. The granite monument tower, topped with a brass globe, houses a museum and an observation deck, and the boulevard running down from the tower is lined with bronze busts of the French explorers who mapped the area in the 18^th Century. After our active day, we will retreat to the J.W. Marriott.

Day 3 (Sunday, May 3): Quito – Air Transfer to Baltra & North Seymour

Located 600 miles west of the coast of Ecuador, the 19 islands of the Galapagos Archipelago are famous for the window they provided into the workings of evolution. The youngest of the islands is estimated to be about four million years old, and the oldest, though now submerged, almost nine million years. Due to their complete isolation, the flora and fauna have evolved into species found nowhere else in the world, with unique adaptations to the individual environments of the islands. There are over 1,900 species of animals and plants endemic to the Galapagos. The most amazing result of this isolation is that the indigenous animals have no natural predators, and as a consequence, almost no fear of humans. You literally will be stepping over and around snoozing sea lions and nesting blue footed boobies as you hike the islands. When Charles Darwin reached the archipelago from England in 1835 aboard HMS Beagle, the islands were deemed “worthless.” Darwin and the crew surveyed the islands, creating maps so accurate they were used well into the 20th Century. This view into a unique, untouched eco-evolutionary system spurred his evolutionary theory, which triumphed with his 1859 tome The Origin of the Species. The Galapagos Islands were placed on the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1978.Due to the sensitive ecosystem, Xpedition does not dock at any of the islands; you will be tendered by Zodiac. These small, comfortable, inflatable craft are equipped with high-powered engines and hold about 16 passengers. Tours are offered in three intensities depending on your physical ability. High-intensity tours are longer hikes, usually two or more miles, over the roughest terrain. Medium-intensity tours are shorter in length, but over the same rugged terrain, and low-intensity tours are usually beach walks or Zodiac tours around the islands. During our last visit, a woman in her eighties and walking with a cane completed the high intensity tours without much problem. No one is allowed on the islands without a guided escort. All tours are limited to 16 people and are conducted by Galapagos National Park Naturalist-Guides. The guides are highly educated, having accredited biology degrees, and are experts in the flora and fauna of the Galapagos. They provide insight on the islands’ history, animals, plants, and geology. The guides are some of the nicest people, with deep personal interest in the conservation and culture of the islands. Smoking and littering is forbidden on the islands. Once you see this unique, pristine land you will understand the motto, “Leave only footprints and take only memories”. The flight from mainland Ecuador lands on the island of Baltra, where we will be greeted by park guides and staff from Xpedition. (Luggage will be sent directly to the ship.) As you approach by air, observe the rocky plateau of Baltra emerging from the blue waters of the Pacific. The terrain is flat and arid, specked with red volcanic rock and sparse growth of cactus. The airport is your first taste of the isolated, unspoiled, out-country–it’s a former WW2military airstrip set up by the US to guard the Panama Canal during the war. You will have some time to browse the small village’s shops before one of island’s three buses will pick you up for transfer to the Zodiacs, which will deliver you to Xpedition. A short sail away is North Seymour, the first island we will visit. After lunch onboard while were position, we will be briefed on the afternoon’s tours and head toward the Zodiacs awaiting you at the Beach Club deck aft. Don your life jacket, grab the bosun’s arm with a sailor’s handshake, and get comfortable for the short ride to shore. At the rocky landing, we will climb a small cliff and be immediately immersed in the animals of the Galapagos. Sea Lions romp in the water and sun on the rocks. Female Blue-Footed Boobies will be nesting right along the trails, remarkably nonchalant about human presence. Galapagos Mockingbirds provide the music as you take it all in. Our guide will explain the mating rituals, and if we are lucky, the males will be strutting for the females. Male Frigate Birds pump their red throats to entice the ladies, while Blue-Footed Boobies wobble comically like circus clowns. Note: With all animals we encounter, WE need to step around them, NOT the other way around.

Day 4 (Monday, May 4): Isla San Cristobal & Isla Espanola

The island of San Cristóbal, also known as Chatham, is the easternmost island of the

Galapagos. It main town, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, is the administrative capital of the Galapagos province of Ecuador. There are a number cafes and shops and a National Park Service interpretative centre. Wildlife on San Cristobal includes the Chatham Mockingbird, the San Cristóbal Lava Lizard, elusive Red-Footed Boobies, Blue-Footed Boobies, Masked Boobies, and right on the beach in town you find the occasional Galapagos Sea Lions in the middle of a snooze. The highlight of today is the early morning zodiac ride to Kicker Rock a.k.a. Leon Dormido, located a few miles offshore. It is a spectacular volcanic rock formation that is not to be missed. Known in English as Hood Island, Isla Espanola is the southernmost part of the Galapagos. The Zodiac will glide into a protected cove, and if we’re lucky, Sea Lions will be bodysurfing in the waves and swimming around the boat to welcome us. On our last trip, one small pup was not happy to see us but lost interest and swam away after a lot of barking and posturing. The terrain across the island is highly diverse. The hike will begin on the jetty, where the immediate terrain is low, flat savannah, slightly sloping up from the shore, with low grasses and plants and sandy beaches dotted with smooth rocks. You will be amazed at the colorful Sally Lightfoot Crabs and sunning Marine Iguanas covering the rocks. The trail slowly is rockier towards the ocean side of the island, where enormous waves crash huge cliffs. On Isla Espanola, Blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, Galapagos Hawks, and Warbler Finches are only a few of the birds we will encounter; the island also is home to the Waved Albatross. These birds can weigh as much as 40 pounds and are fantastic flyers. Their crash landings, however, are less than graceful–they come down like bags of soggy clothes thrown hard across the meadow. Farther around the island is its famous blowhole. The basalt rock at the sea edge has cracked, creating a fissure that, at high tide, fills with pressurized seawater. The resulting geyser can reach 75 feet in the air. Photo opportunities here are outstanding.

Day 5 (Tuesday, May 5): Floreana: Cormorant Point & Baroness Outlook

Floreana is the sixth-largest island. It is also one of the four in the archipelago that Darwin actually visited while sailing the HMS Beagle. This island was the first capital of the Galapagos during the 19th century. The morning brings us to Cormorant Point. The beaches are laced with Olivine crystals, a pale green crystal similar to Peridot. Inland find a large brackish pond home to flamingos, stilts, and White Cheeked Pintail Ducks. Off the beach, look for small rays, turtles, and sharks. Champion, a small island close by, has excellent snorkeling to spot Spotted Eagle Rays, small sharks, Pacific Barracuda, and Pacific Green Sea Turtles Champion is one of the few islands that support the Floreana Mocking Bird. As the story goes, Baroness Outlook was the lookout used by an infamous Baroness (no one knows for sure if it was a real title or a self-proclaimed one) watching for visiting ships to arrive. She, her lovers, and a dentist planned to build a hotel on the island. The idea was not well received by their neighbors and oddly, one night, they all disappeared without a trace. To this day, no one has solved the mystery. The waters around the Outlook are home to Pacific Green Sea Turtles and Golden Rays. On land, look for Spotted Eagles, Great Egrets, and Lava Herons. From the beach, you can climb the steep trail, about 300 feet, to the viewing platform that is the Baroness’ Outlook.

Day 6 (Wednesday, May 6): Santa Cruz: Las Bachas & San Salvador: Bartolome

Las Bachas has a fine coralline beaches and not far away, two lagoons where Greater

Flamingos, Pintail Ducks and Black Necked Stilts feed in the shallows. Along these beaches we find one of the largest nesting areas in Galapagos for the Pacific Green Sea Turtle. During the season females lay an average of 100 eggs. Incubation takes 55 to 60 days and the nests look only like mere indentations on the high part of the beach. Bartolome is a volcanic island near the center of the Galapagos chain. Fissures in the ocean floor exploded and gradually rose, creating the land mass. The landscape is moon-like. Climb the volcanic cone 374 ft. for an amazing view of many of the islands. Below, you will see Pinnacle Rock. Here we find Galapagos Hawks, Galapagos Penguins (the only penguins found north of the Equator and surprisingly tolerant of humans), Marine Iguanas, Sally Lightfoot Crabs, sharks, and virgin lava fields.

Day 7 (Thursday, May 7): Isla Isabela: Elizabeth Bay & Isla Fernandina: Punta

Espinoza Isla Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos. The island was born of five volcanoes that melded together over time to become a single land mass. The island is still volcanically active. The last eruption of the Sierra Negra Volcano occurred in October of 2005. Isabela is home to five different subspecies of giant tortoises. Elizabeth Bay is a huge bay fed by the cold Pacific Cromwell Current. The current brings ocean water as cold as 50 degrees luring Galapagos Penguins, whales and Pacific Dolphin. Fernandina Island is the youngest of the islands, a mere four million years old, and the most western. It too is still volcanically active; the last eruption was in May of 2005. Darwin said the island was, “covered with immense deluges of black naked lava.” Our destination is Punta Espinoza, on the northeast corner of the island. Hikes here pass a landscape of recent lava flows and thick mangrove mangels (forests). Here find Sea Lion colonies, the largest Marine Iguana colony within the Galapagos, and a nesting area of the indigenous Flightless Cormorants.

Day 8 (Friday, May 8): San Salvador: Puerto Egas & Santa Cruz: Cerro Dragon

San Salvador, also known as Isla Santiago and James Island, is the fourth largest island in the Archipelago. At one time there were an estimated 100,000 feral goats on Isla Santiago. All descendants of goats released onto the island by buccaneers, whalers, early fishermen and salt miners. They multiplied so quickly that they depleted the food source of the native Galapagos Tortoise, decimating the population. Puerto Egas, south of James Bay on the west side of the island, has the remnants of a salt mining operation that existed up until the 1960’s. There is a long, lava shoreline with black sand beaches and eroded rock formations. These rocks are home to Marine Iguanas, Land Iguanas, Oystercatchers, Sand Pipers, Yellow-Crowned Night Herons, Lava Herons, and Galapagos Hawks. Nearby tide pools contain Sally Lightfoot Crabs and are a playground for Galapagos Sea Lions and Galapagos Fur Seals. Cerro Dragon, also called Dragon Hill,is found on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. The site takes its name from the population of Land Iguanas here. Feral dogs, cats and domestic animals brought by the first settlers preyed upon the iguanas bringing them to the brink of extinction. Darwin Station and the Galapagos National Park Service started breeding the iguanas in captivity and releasing them back into the wild, saving the population. The view from the top of the hill is stunning. On the hike up, the trail passes through the “white forest” composed of Palo Santo, or incense trees. The brackish lagoon below feeds flamingo and shore birds.

Day 9 (Saturday, May 9): Isla Santa Cruz: Darwin Station

After Darwin’s studies and surveys, the Galapagos Archipelago remained untouched except for occasional landings for water and meager supplies mustered from the uninhabited islands. Many tortoises were taken for food and oil. Later, small human settlements sprouted. Unknowingly, these ships left behind non-indigenous animals like rats and cats. This, along with the human settlements introduction of non-indigenous animals like goats, pigs, and dogs, had a devastating effect on many native species. Once-domesticated animals escaped and became feral, and the islands suddenly were overrun with predators never seen before. They competed for available food, eating tortoise eggs, baby iguanas, and the plant base, which led to massive erosion and overall devastation of the habitats. The Galapagos tortoises are still in danger of extinction. Just ask “Lonesome George,” the last of his particular species in the world, who’s estimated to be 150 years old. In 1930, an expedition from the US arrived to create a wildlife sanctuary for the entire archipelago, and finally, in 1935, the first laws were passed to protect these islands. In 1959, the Ecuadorian government declared the Galapagos a national park, the catalyst needed to promote scientific research, restoration, and preservation of the ecosystem.

Day 10 (Sunday, May 10): Quito

We will disembark the Xpedition on Baltra, fly to Quito, and return to the J.W. Marriott for one last night. Relax by the pool sipping cocktails, snack on superb sushi, or enjoy a leisurely dinner. Perhaps do a little exploring on your own. For those of you combining the Galapagos Adventure and the Machu Picchu Tour, you will depart today on the noon flight from Baltra. You will fly to Guayaquil where you will change planes for your flight to Lima. You will be escorted by Romance Voyages representatives and upon arrival in Lima; we will transfer to the Lima Marriott. This first hotel night in Lima is included in your package price. The afternoon and evening will be at your leisure and dinner is not included. Take time to explore the chic Miraflores district of Lima. This is Lima’s most upscale area full of boutiques, theaters, great restaurants, bars and clubs; we here that the Downtown Vale Codo (Pasaje Los Pinos 160) is one of the most popular (and safe) clubs in the Miraflores district. Gay life in Lima and Peru is not “out” by US standards so a modicum of “caution” needs to be exercised.

Day 11 (Monday, May 11): Quito

Awake refreshed and enjoy the complimentary breakfast. Coaches will transfer you to the airport for your return flights home from this fantastic place.

Other Info:

Trip Cancellation & Interruption Insurance which is highly recommended to protect your travel investment in the unlikelihood you would need to cancel or return home early. We recommend Travel Insured International and will send you an application form with confirmation of your trip. You may check the rates for insurance on their website at www.travelinsured.com. We also recommend insuring any expense for airline tickets issued prior to the determination if a tour is guaranteed to operate. We cannot assume responsibility for losses incurred due to the cancellation of a tour.

Gratuities: Onboard gratuities are included with your cruise fare. Hotel gratuities or tips for services outside Xpedition are not included.

Personal Expenses such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and bar beverages, laundry, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees (if applicable) and other optional incidental extras are not included and may be significant.

Travel and Ship Info:

The 98 passenger Celebrity Xpedition

Ship Facts

• Occupancy: 98
• Tonnage: 2,842
• Length: 296 ft
• Beam: 49 ft
• Draught: 25 ft
• Cruisespeed: 15 kts
• Inaugural Date: Jan 01, 2001

The Vessel

Cruise Division has an exclusive charter on Celebrity Xpedition, the only luxury ship granted special permission by the Ecuadorian government to tour the strictly protected, eco-sensitive Galapagos Archipelago. Xpedition is the ultimate in casual elegance. With a mere 45 staterooms and a length of 296 feet, she is spacious and comfortable.

The elegant staterooms either have an ocean view porthole, window, or a balcony, and all are appointed with fine wood, leather, marble, etched glass, and fine linens. The duvets are to die for, and there is more wardrobe space than many larger ships. A television, refrigerator, satellite-accessible telephones, and Egyptian-cotton towels complete the splendor. Power is 220V, so bring a converter to keep the camera batteries charged.

Xpedition’s public spaces, both indoors and out, allow plenty of room to relax after sightseeing and hiking. Sip cocktails in the Discovery Lounge, with its classic nautical theme and comfortable banquettes, sound system, and dance floor. This lounge opens directly to the aft open deck, where you can watch the Pacific sunset. Try the refreshing local draft beer called simply “Pilsener,” fine local wines, or a traditional mixed cocktail. Remember that all well drinks, beer, wine, and soft drinks are complimentary (as are all the onboard gratuities, Galapagos park entrance fees, and all shore excursions). The bridge is always open for you to tour, and the onboard naturalists give briefings every day on the islands you will be hiking the next day. These are very informative, and the naturalists are quite enthusiastic, since to them the Galapagos is the ultimate assignment.

Darwin’s Restaurant is a relaxed, casual-dining experience surrounded by washed woods, deep-blue upholstery, and subtle lighting. Large windows offer sweeping views. Most meals are open seating: you pick when and with whom you dine, with no strict times or seating charts. The chef prepares all dishes à la minute, and the presentation rivals a Parisian restaurant. Variations on any menu item are available to suit your individual taste or dietary needs. Fine local wines are selected by the chef and sommelier (and poured generously) to complement each dish. Breakfast is served buffet-style with a station for prepared-to-order omelets, eggs, and a special breakfast selection chosen by the chef. Lunch is served in the same style. For those who want lunch al fresco, there is a daily barbeque and lunch buffet at the Beagle Grill on the aft deck.

If the hiking has not worked your muscles enough, feel free to workout in the small gym on the top deck. Or enjoy ultimate relaxation with a massage or sauna. The gym, massage area, and sauna are open early and close late. Also, on the top deck, there is an oversized Jacuzzi and plenty of lounge chairs for good old-fashioned sun- or moon-bathing. At night, try stargazing from the warmth of the Jacuzzi. It is an awesome experience, and the waiters will keep bringing you drinks long past any reasonable bedtime. You will never find the Jacuzzi closed: It is yours to use anytime you choose. Of course, the ship is outfitted with a business center (if you absolutely have to check e-mail), a library, gift shop, and salon. A licensed and accredited doctor is also on call.

Xpedition has a top cruising speed of 17 knots (about 20 miles per hour) and is equipped with state-of-the-art stabilizers and navigational and propulsion systems. She is designed to be the most advanced, eco-friendly vessel of all time, and every onboard source of waste is processed, filtered, and cleansed in the ship, so only clear, completely potable water is released into the sea. The remaining solid waste is recycled or processed into fertilizers. The sensitive ecosystem of the Galapagos is disturbed only by the wake of this extraordinary vessel.

When:  November 2nd to 11th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Coda

Type:  All-Gay

Departs:  Cairo

Visits:  Kom Ombo, Luxor, Abu Simbel, Cairo

Pricing Info:

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1 — DEPART USA

Depart USA on any regularly scheduled flight to Cairo.

Day 2 — CAIRO

Arrive at Cairo International Airport, where you will be met by your Coda Tour Coordinator, who will assist you with all customs and visa formalities. Transfer in modern, air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel. Your Tour Coordinator will assist you with check-in at your hotel. Overnight at Four Seasons Nile Plaza or OberoiMena House Hotel.

Day 3 — CAIRO

Buffet breakfast at leisure at your hotel. Founded around 3,100 BC during the Old Kingdom, Memphis is the legendary city of Menes, the King who united Upper and Lower Egypt. According to tradition, he first created dikes to protect the area from Nile floods and then started building. Much of what we know of Memphis comes from its necropolis, texts and papyrus from other parts of Egypt, and Herodotus, who visited the city. Early on, Memphis was probably a fortress from which Menes controlled the land and water routes between Upper Egypt and the Delta. Later, this great city became the administrative and religious center of Egypt, was home to a cosmopolitan community and most likely one of the largest and most important cities in the ancient world.

Across the Great Court of the Pyramid Complex of Zoser in Sakkara, stands the Step Pyramid, the oldest known of Egypt’s 107 pyramids, which was built by Imhotep, one of the world’s most famous historical figures. This architect of the world’s first freestanding stone structure, which you will visit today with your Egyptologist, is often also recognized as the world’s first doctor, as well as a priest, sage, poet, and astrologer. Although the original structure was a burial chamber 28 meters underground, Imhotep enlarged it several times to eventually reach a six tiered rectangle 60 meters high. Sakkara seems to have been the first area where limestone was employed, not only for the outer casing of the pyramid but also to cover interior walls. Lunch today will be at the historic Mena House Oberoi Hotel, next to the Pyramids. Built as a palace for the Empress Eugenie, during her visit to Egypt for the opening of the Suez Canal in1869, the Mena House “Khan El-Khalili Café” has floor-to-ceiling windows with views over the lush gardens of the hotel, and out onto the Great Pyramids themselves. Embark on an unforgettable tour of the Great Pyramids of Giza built for the Pharaohs Cheops, Chefren and Mycerinus. They were constructed about 2500 BC with blocks of limestone from the plateau and from the Turah hills on the outskirts of Cairo The Great Pyramid of Cheops alone, the only present-day survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, required over2,300,000 blocks of stone, each weighing about 2.5 tons. At its base, it covers 13 acres of land. Millions of visitors come each year to ponder the fascinating mystery of their existence and explore the ancient burial chambers within.

Visit the Valley Temple, housing the mysterious Sphinx, located in what was once a quarry to the east of Chephren’s pyramid. One theory suggests this Pharaoh’s workers shaped the body into a lion and gave it their king’s face, as a guardian of the necropolis. Almost a thousand years after its construction, King Thutmose IV placed a stela between the front paws. It describes how the Sphinx had spoken to the then prince in a dream, promising him kingship if he cleared away the desert sand that was choking the Sphinx. Explore this and the many other legends surrounding this timeless regal figure. Return to your hotel. Welcome dinner at the hotel. Overnight at Four Seasons Nile Plaza or OberoiMena House Hotel.

Day 4 – CAIRO

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Your Egyptologist will escort you today on a fascinating tour of 7,000 years of Egyptian history with a visit to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, open since1902. The Museum exhibits over 120,000 objects in its 107 halls, comprising the world’s greatest collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts. Two grand halls containing countless artifacts and one room reserved for the golden treasures, all from the world-famous tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun astound and delight visitors. More than 2 million people flock to this magnificent site each year. Enter the Mummies Room, a specially built area dedicated to the well-preserved mummies of11 Royal Kings and Queens of Ancient Egypt, including the Great Ramses II, Egypt’s longest ruling pharaoh. Return to hotel. Rest of day at leisure. Overnight at Four Seasons Nile Plaza or OberoiMenaHouse Hotel.

Day 5 — CAIRO/ABU SIMBEL/ASWAN

Buffet breakfast at Leisure at your hotel. Your Tour Coordinator will be at the reception to help with checkout procedures. Transfer in modern air-conditioned vehicle to Cairo Airport to board MS flight to Aswan. Continue on board your flight to Abu Simbel (Abu Simbel tour is optional during the April trip.)

Our guide will meet you at airport and escort you to the world-renowned site where Ramses II ordered two sun temples carved from the limestone mountains at Abu Simbel, between 1290-1124 BC. At the Great Temple of Ra-Harakhte, the four famous colossal statues of Ramses II sit majestically over 20 meters high, staring out across the desert. Six massive standing statues front the Temple of Hathor, dedicated to the cow-headed goddess of love and built in honor of Ramses’ favorite wife, Queen Nefertari, each 10 meters high. In modern times the waters that would rise with the completion of the High Dam threatened the two temples of

Abu Simbel. A campaign to save them was organized by UNESCO, with the temples being cut into blocks, raised piece-by-piece, and reassembled in a new position higher up the hillside. The massive job took two years to complete, 1966-1968.

Board your MS flight back to Aswan. Arrival at Aswan Domestic Airport where Aswan Tour Coordinator meet you. Transfer in modern air-conditioned vehicle to your Nile Cruise. Your 5-star deluxe Nile cruise boat, the “Sun Boat IV”, is moored at a private dock in Aswan. Onboard, you will be welcomed by the reception staff, who will offer you chilled fruit juice while assisting with your check-in.

Your cruise on the Sun Boat IV will include:

* A colorful “galabeya party” which gives each guest the opportunity to dress up in traditional Egyptian dress and dance to Arabic music.
* A belly dancer, accompanied by a whirling dervish show in Luxor.
* A trio of authentic Egyptian musicians in Aswan during afternoon tea

Menus are changed on a seasonal basis to enable the Chef to use the freshest ingredients at all times. However, the following is applicable to every cruise:

Most meals are served in the restaurant. However, at least one barbecue lunch (while sailing) will be served on deck (weather permitting). Afternoon tea includes a range of teas and herbal infusions, fresh coffee and a selection of freshly baked, homemade cake, cookies and finger food. Mineral water, tea and coffee are included on a complimentary basis during meals.

After lunch on board, your Egyptologist guide will escort you to visit the Aswan High Dam, Egypt’s contemporary example of building on a monumental scale. Then take a short motorboat ride to visit the romantic and majestic Philae Temple on the Island of Agilka. Next we proceed to the Granite Quarries, which supplied the ancient Egyptians with most of the hard stone used in pyramids and temples, and still hold a huge unfinished obelisk. When you return to your cruise, a relaxing afternoon tea will be served in the lounge. Tonight you will be greeted by your Boat Manager, who will introduce you to the boat staff and review on-board facilities and your cruise program for the next few days. Complimentary Egyptian wine and local beer will be served, together with a selection of canapés. Gourmet dinner on board.

Day 6 — NILE CRUISE

Breakfast buffet on board, while you cruise to KomOmbo. Visit the Temple of KomOmbo, dedicated to the crocodile-god Sobek. The temple stands at a bend in the Nile where in ancient times sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the riverbank. Return to your boat for lunch on board, while you cruise to Edfu. This afternoon, explore the largest and most completely preserved Pharaonic – albeit Greek-built – temple in Egypt, the extraordinary Temple of Horus at Edfu. Afternoon tea will be served while you cruise to Esna. Tonight’s dinner on board will be an “Egyptian Night” costume party for all guests, with a chance to dress up in traditional Egyptian “galabeyas”. Dinner will be a lavish buffet of Egyptian specialties, followed by oriental music and dancing for everyone.

Day 7 — NILE CRUISE

Early sailing to Luxor. Breakfast buffet on board. Begin your day with a visit to the West Bank of Luxor to explore the Valley of the Kings, a vast City of the Dead where magnificent tombs were carved into the desert rocks, decorated richly, and filled with treasures for the afterlife by generations of Pharaohs. You will also have the chance to visit at least one tomb in the Valley of the Queens. Rising out of the desert plain in a series of terraces, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut (Ancient Egypt’s only female Pharaoh) merges with the sheer limestone cliffs that surround it, as if

nature herself had built this extraordinary monument. On the way back to the river Nile, your road passes by the famed Colossi of Memnon, known in Ancient Greek times for their haunting voices at dawn. This afternoon your Egyptologist will guide you on a tour of the East Bank of Luxor, starting with the strikingly graceful Temple of Luxor dedicated to the god Amun. Return to your cruise for afternoon tea on board. Tonight’s farewell dinner will be a formal gala dinner, with white-gloved waiters serving gourmet cuisine.

Day 8 — NILE CRUISE/LUXOR

Breakfast buffet on board, and check out. Proceed to the Temple of Karnak, built over more than a thousand years by generations of Pharaohs. The great “Hypostyle Hall” is an incredible forest of giant pillars, covering an area larger than the whole of Notre Dame Cathedral. Transfer in modern air-conditioned vehicle to Luxor hotel and check in. This afternoon, visit the Luxor Museum. This elegant modern museum boasts a fabulous collection of artifacts from the Theban temples and necropolis including pottery, jewelry, furniture, statues, and stele from the ancient city.

The evening is fat leisure in Luxor. Overnight at Sonesta St. George Hotel

Day 9 — NILE CRUISE/ABU SIMBEL/CAIRO

Buffet breakfast at the hotel and check out. Transfer to Luxor Airport to board MS flight to Cairo. Arrive at Cairo Airport where Coda Tour Coordinator will be waiting you. Transfer in modern air-conditioned vehicle to you hotel. Enjoy the rest of day at leisure. You may wish to visit the Khan El Kahlili bazaar for last minute shopping. Enjoy today’s farewell dinner at the hotel. Overnight at Four Seasons First Residence (in November) or Fairmont Towers Hotel (in April)

Day 10 — CAIRO/USA

Buffet breakfast at leisure at your hotel. Transfer in modern air-conditioned vehicle to Cairo Airport. The newest of A&K’s Nile boats, the Sun Boat IV, has been re-launched after an extensive refurbishment. She is the first boat on the Nile whose style is contemporary chic with Art Deco influence. Modern fittings have been combined with state of the art design and cutting edge technology. There are 36 extra large cabins and 4 suites all with floor to ceiling windows (except Nile deck which has small windows). Standard cabin facilities include en-suite bathroom, color satellite TV, CD-player, safety deposit box and minibar. The Sun Deck has a new teak and marble floor and swimming pool, heated during winter months. Other facilities include lounge bar, gym, library and games room, internet access while docked in Luxor and Aswan, gift shop and restaurant. Laundry and medical facilities are available on board.

Travel and Ship Info:

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Amid the shifting sands of the desert, countless civilizations have risen and fallen, leaving the ruins of their temples and monuments as silent testaments to past grandeur and power. On this journey, you’ll visit some of the most renowned sites of the ancient world. You’ll discover the awe-inspiring Pyramids and Great Sphinx of Giza, the temples and tombs of the Pharaohs in Luxor, ancient Thebes, and the nearly lost Abu Simbel temples (optional in April). We have included three spectacular nights on the Nile River’s best cruise ship, the Sun Boat IV.

With just 36 large cabins and 4 suites, she embodies the ultimate cruise experience. On land, you will be accommodated in Egypt’s finest hotels, including the Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel, where Nile View rooms have been reserved (in November) or the OberoiMena House Hotel with Pyramid view (in April), the Sonesta St George with Nile View rooms, and the Four Seasons First Residence in Superior rooms (in November) and the Fairmont Towers Hotel (in April). This 10 day tour of Egypt is simply the best way to discover this ancient land.

5-star deluxe, 80-guest capacity

Technical data

* Launched 1996
* Fully renovated September 2006
* Length: 72.0m
* Width: 12.8m
* Draft: 1.15m
* 3 x 380 hp engines
* 3 x 240 kW generators
* Radar and short-wave radio
* Electricity 220 V / 50Hz

Exclusive features & facilities

* 2 Royal Suites with balcony, 59.3m2
* 2 Presidential Suites, 43.5m2
* 36 luxury cabins, 18.2m2
* Upper sun deck, with heated swimming pool 21.6m2
* Lower shaded deck with bar
* Private docks in Luxor and Aswan
* “Unique Felucca” in Aswan
* Air-conditioned throughout with individual cabin control
* Restaurant and lounge bar
* Gourmet menus and lavish buffets
* Gymnasium
* Multi-language library and games room with computer
* Internet access throughout the cruise
* Egyptology lecture during cruise
* Souvenir and Gift shop
* Laundry facilities
* In-room dining
* Elegant entertainment program
* All cabins have Nile view plus private bathroom with shower and hairdryer, LCD screens with satellite and in-house movies, individual CD-player, internal and external telephone (with international line access), safe deposit box, and mini-bar
* Non-smoking policy throughout all internal areas of the boat
* No-mobile policy throughout the internal, public areas of the boat, for guaranteed relaxation

Safety & security measures

* Ship specification: Germanische Lloyd certificate.
* Water purification: State-of-art, three filter, system.
* Medical Facilities: Fleet Physician. Emergency first aid kit and facilities on board.
* Security: 24 hour, highly trained, in-house security personnel. Metal detectors at main entrances.

Fire safety: State of the art sprinkler system,fire alarm and smoke detector system. All carpets, partitions and ceilings are fire-resistant.

Cruise: Europe’s Heartland Cruise

When: August 7^th to 17^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: RSVP/Coda

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Paris

Visits: Trier, Cochem, Koblenz, Rhine Valley, Rudesheim, Frankfurt, Miltenberg, Wertheim, Wurzburg, Bamberg, MD Canal, Nuremberg

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Travel and Ship Info:

RSVP has taken our popular German Riverboat Cruise and combined it with a two night stay in Paris, arguably one of the most exciting cities in the world. From Paris we will travel through the beautiful French countryside to embark our ship in Trier. On the way we will stop in Rheims for a visit of the famous Champagne cellars and Cathedral with its spectacular Chagall windows.

Our home is the newest ship sailing Europe’s waterways -ms Amalyra. During our seven day cruise we will travel on the Moselle, Rhine, and Main rivers with stops in Cochem, Koblenz, Rudesheim, Frankfurt (optional excursion to Heidelberg), Miltenberg, Wertheim, Wurzburg and Bamberg before ending the cruise in Nuremberg. From here you will have the option to go to historic Prague. This cruise offers a variety of dramatic scenery,visits to charming villages and castles, wine tasting, exciting gay life and of course great shopping await you.

Luxury, romance, and the company of great friends make RSVP riverboat cruises unique. Join us as we create the best European vacation value (and most fun) of the year.

Cruise: Western Europe Cruise

When: May 23^rd to June 6^th,2009

Company/Offered Through: Pied Piper

Type: Gay Group Cruise

Departs: Barcelona, Spain

Visits: Gibraltar, La Coruna, St. Malo, Paris, Antwerp, London, Amsterdam, Kiel Canal, Copenhagen

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Travel and Ship Info:

PIED PIPER presents a group cruise to Western Europe on the beautiful cruise ship, Azamara Journey! Pamper yourself with gourmet food, superb entertainment and fabulous service while cruising to fabulous ports of call in Spain, France, Holland, and Germany! An excitinghighlight of the cruise will be the chance to spend an evening in London, England! And you will sail on Azamara Cruises’ beautiful luxury cruise ship,Journey! This beautiful, luxurious, smaller cruise ship has all the warmth, charm and distinction of a private yacht. Onboard features include country club casual experience, open seating for dining, butler service in all staterooms and suites, optional specialty dining experience, and much more!

Cruise: Thanksgiving Caribbean Cruise

When: November 29^th to December 6^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Pied Piper

Type: Gay Group Cruise

Departs: Miami, Florida

Visits: Costa Maya, Belize City, Cozumel, Miami

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Travel and Ship Info:

Join us on Royal Caribbean’s luxury ship
Liberty of the Seas! for our Tenth Annual Post-Thanksgiving Caribbean Cruise!
(7 night cruise departing November 29, 2009, the week following Thanksgiving )

Join PIED PIPER TRAVEL as we celebrate ourNineteenth Seasonof organizing gay groups on the world’s most luxurious cruise ships. We’ll sail roundtrip from the exciting, gay-friendly port of Miami, Florida! During our voyage we’ll visit these exciting ports of call: Costa Maya, Belize, and Cozumel! This will be PIED PIPER’s tenth annual Post-Thanksgiving Caribbean cruise! Past groups have been some of our largest, with over 900 passengers on the 2007 sailing! Don’t miss the next cruise!

Sail with us on one of the largest cruise ships afloat! Special features of this exciting liner include a street fair, ice-skating rink, and a rock climbing wall! You can dine in her fabulous three deck high dining room or one of several alternate restaurants. Whatever your pleasure, you won’t be bored on the Liberty of the Seas!

Cruise: Seattle to Alaska

When: July 11^th to 18^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: R Family Vacations

Type: All-Gay and Gay-Friendly

Departs: Seattle, WA

Visits: Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Prince Rupert, Seattle

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Travel and Ship Info:

Seattle to Alaska – July 11-18, 2009

A week of community, learning, laughter and love is all in store as we celebrate our freedom and pride aboard the Norwegian Star. Don’t miss the boat, call today and reserve your family’s staterooms.

The gay-cation of a lifetime

We start our vacation in the gay friendly port town of Seattle, WA. Then we’re ready to explore the beautiful state of Alaska.  Alaska is the largest area in the United States, yet the third smallest in population, so you can imagine how rugged and natural it is. There is a multitude of amazing excursions, plan ahead & get the most out of your family’s vacations!

Truly, this will be the most memorable vacation for your friends and family. Call our offices today & book your family’s staterooms.

North to Alaska during the peak of summer

R Family Vacations is heading West to explore the glacier-carved valleys, rugged coastlines, spectacular ice towers and amazing wildlife. Our 7-day adventure departs from the hip city of Seattle on July 11^th. You’ll sail along Alaska’s exquisite Inside Passage stopping in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Prince Rupert. Get ready to experience the best entertainment and the most inclusive gay cruise ever offered!

Luxurious and spacious staterooms

Exquisite suites and staterooms have been meticulously designed for spaciousness, style, adaptability and comfort. From the luxurious surroundings of our three-room Owner’s Suites to the charm and value of our Inside Staterooms, no detail has been overlooked. Each stateroom has cherry-wood detailing, TV, refrigerator, safe, duvet and an oversized bathroom with shower. Guests can choose staterooms or suites with a private balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows or picture windows. Many of the staterooms are interconnected so families can enjoy togetherness as well as privacy.

Bring the friends & family — many of our rooms sleep up to 4 people

Most of our rooms can easily accommodate 3rd & 4th passengers and our “family suites” sleep up to 9!

Dining aboard the Star

Aboard the Norwegian Star you’ll discover NCL has rolled out the red carpet for its guests. This is Freestyle Cruising™ at its finest. NCL has created a dining atmosphere that’s as free-spirited as the islands and cities we will visit. Not only will you be able to select from 13 dining options with cuisine choices from all around the world, you’ll also have the freedom to dine whenever you want. You are welcome to come early and stay late because the Star’s dining hours extend from 5:30 ’til midnight. For casual dining, the Norwegian Star features 24-hour room service plus two cafes that offer savory choices ’round the clock.

More choices then any other cruise line:

Norwegian Star’s roster of 13 dining options has a very international flavor. No other cruise line has more dining choices. From the French elegance of Le Bistro to the exotic Asian allure of Ginza, the Star will treat you to a world of culinary options. The Star features Cagney’s Steak House. With generous steak and filet portions fit for king-sized appetites and delicious seafood, lamb and chicken dishes, this restaurant is bound to be a big hit.

This is your inside pass to the newest, most tempting selection of dining options on the high seas:

The SoHo Room [Fusion Cuisine]

This high-end Pacific Rim restaurant features a fusion of Californian and Polynesian cuisines. Coriander, Garlic and Ginger Roasted Medallions of Monkfish, and a sizzling Szechwan Encrusted Beef Tenderloin Steak that’s “to die for” are just a few of the delights that await you in SoHo. Or for something truly extravagant, pick your own lobster from the cold water lobster tank. Of special note: The SoHo Room features 3 exclusive private dining rooms — perfect for intimate gatherings.

Ginza [Japanese/Chinese/Thai Restaurant Complex]

Featuring a sushi bar, teppanyaki room and a Thai/Japanese/Chinese restaurant. Servers dressed in elaborate garb are happy to help you select from such specialty items as Sukiyaki, Peking Duck, or tempting steak and seafood combos. Chilled or warm sake served in a traditional wooden box is a popular accompaniment to any selection. À la carte menu pricing.

Le Bistro* [French/Mediterranean Restaurant]

While enjoying an intimate meal at Le Bistro, one could easily imagine sitting in a charming café on the Champs Èlysées. But the menu also reflects many delicious Mediterranean influences, it’s clever mix of traditional specialties and inventive signature dishes has made Le Bistro “le favorite.” Enjoy the best seat in the house as a Maître d’ prepares a traditional Caesar salad tableside. Then get ready to say, “C’est bon!”

Aqua [Contemporary Cuisine]

With it’s contemporary venue and menu, Aqua will clearly delight patrons. Aside from the regular menu, a variety of exclusive President’s Menu selections can always be found. The chefs have also teamed up with Cooking Light® magazine to offer a variety of dishes which are low in cholesterol, salt, and fat yet high in flavor. The ever-changing selections include Baked Flounder with Thai Scallion Sauce, Sauteed Veal Scallopini topped with Crabmeat and Sauce Bearnaise, and a Red Currant Glazed Pork Chop served with Root Vegetables.

Versailles [Traditional Cuisine]

This elegant restaurant is reminiscent of an ornate French château, where master chefs prepare a sumptuous feast. Every artfully presented course is a delight to the senses. The traditional yet highly sophisticated dishes served include a wonderful Broiled Caribbean Lobster Tail, Duck â l’Orange, and Filet of Beef Wellington. An extensive wine selection makes it easy to choose the perfect complement to your meal.

Market Café

Featuring prepared-to-order omelets, waffles, fruit, soups, ethnic specialties, and pasta.

Blue Lagoon 24-hour Food Court

No midnight craving is left unsatisfied at the Blue Lagoon. This versatile, 24-hour eatery offers everything from hamburgers to fast-wok dishes, “food-court style” in a friendly atmosphere perfect for families and friends alike.

La Trattoria [Italian Cuisine]

Traditional, tasty and molto Italiano, this casual trattoria serves up perfect pasta with a choice of seven savory sauces. There are crispy fresh salads, authentic Italian desserts, a fine wine list and steaming espresso drinks to complement every meal.

Endless Summer Restaurant

A Tex-Mex-themed restaurant arranged around the central atrium incorporating a performance stage and large movie screen.

Cagney’s Steak House *

A 1930s-style steakhouse where perfectly grilled steaks are served. Aged, prime beef cooked at a searing temperature results in some of the most succulent steaks and prime rib meals anywhere. Choose from a menu of steaks, filet mignon, prime rib, lamb, fresh seafood and grilled chicken dishes.

* Specialty Restaurant, w/ cover charge

2009 will be even more amazing!

We’re busy inviting this year’s list of star-studded entertainment. R Family Vacations offers the very best entertainment at sea from pop-stars to Broadway stars. Some big names and some you’ll meet for the first time and never forget! Register with us today to receive our entertainment updates!

Our past entertainers have included

1. Melissa Etheridge
2. Cyndi Lauper
3. Gloria Estefan
4. Kathy Griffin
5. Erasure
6. Sheena Easton
7. Sharon Gless
8. Mario Cantone
9. Jessica Kirson
10. Julie Goldman
11. Judy Gold
12. John Tartaglia
13. EseraTuaolo
14. Poppy Champlain
15. Celebrity Chef Art Smith
16. The Kinsey Sicks
17. Seth Rudetsky
18. Suzanne Buirgy
19. Liz Calloway
20. Gavin Creel
21. Orfeh
22. Michael Arden
23. Andrea McArdle

Our onboard entertainment includes themed parties, dance parties, cabaret shows and much more!

A true original: Everyone is welcome!

R Family Vacations is the first gay travel company that caters to both the gay and lesbian community. We are also the first to truly design vacations for gay and lesbian travelers and their families (kids included!) and friends. Experience the magic when everyone comes together for the most inclusive cruise ever offered.

We offer something for everyone on-board

We design all our programs to offer the widest range possible of activities and entertainment for a broad audience. In our everyday lives, most of us have more than just gay friends or lesbian friends, so why can’t we travel together, too? A gay man and a lesbian founded the company. Kelli and Gregg are committed to creating vacations that appeal to both communities. On our cruises, the Family Equaility Council creates workshops and seminars that were developed for gay men, others for gay women, and some for both.

Single travelers are welcome. We offer the opportunity to meet other single travelers with our singles mixers, dinners, and special events. We offer events for Bears and events for our little ones! We can’t wait to welcome you aboard R Family.

We promise world class entertainment!

The entertainment on an R Family Vacation is unlike any you’ve ever seen on another gay cruise or mainstream vacation. You’ll enjoy some of the funniest comedians, some gay, some not; and some of the best music ever heard at sea. The world-class talent brought onboard just for R Family ranges from current Broadway stars to soft rock and pop musicians.

R Family Vacations is the first GLBT travel company to welcome children aboard its cruises. For the teenagers, we have created an incredible week of programming, with entertainment designed just for them. For children with gay parents, an R Family Vacation is a unique opportunity to meet families who are just like theirs… Hundreds of them! Never again will these kids feel like “they are the only ones.”

R Vacations are like the best family reunion you can imagine

R Family Vacations are also perfect for extended families and friends. Most of our gay and lesbian guests bring parents, cousins, siblings, and friends. This is a unique opportunity to share a vacation where everyone is truly welcome.

Many gay events have a heavy emphasis on partying.  We realize that not everyone in the community enjoys all night parties and R Family Vacations is a great alternative to many of the existing travel options. Our cruises are a blast but also a very safe and welcoming environment for our entire community and their friends and families.

A world of entertainment

Treat yourself to a massage, take in a show, enjoy an intimate meal with your loved one

Choose from ten distinctive restaurants, enjoy a spa treatment, play a few hands of blackjack in the Casino, curl up with a book on the sun deck or enjoy a movie in our very own cinema.

The Norwegian Star is home to a 1,100 seat theatre where you can enjoy some of the best entertainment to be found at sea – brought aboard just for R Family. The entertainment is designed for adults although kids are welcome to all of the early shows. You can dance the night away in the Spinnaker lounge or enjoy some of your favorite songs at our nightly piano bars.

The Norwegian Star is home to an unequalled artwork collection with originals by Renoir, Van Gogh, Matisse and Monet. You can also attend one of the numerous art auctions during the cruise.

Friends make the world a warmer place

Fun exciting activities & new friendships await your teens

Our cruises are life-changing experiences for the more than 100 teens that travel with us each cruise and many new friendships were formed. For teenagers ages 13-17, there’s plenty to do, from sports like volleyball and basketball to other activities like pool parties, disco and a video arcade. Teens are free to come and go as they please and Teen Club.

This cruise is a great place for teens to meet other teens while enjoying everything this ship has to offer, including the sports deck, entertainment, restaurants, and Internet connection.

Everyday is kids’ day!

Pools, free ice cream, & their own kid-sized theater.Need we say more?

For youngsters, the Star offers exceptional programming with their “Kids’ Crew” for ages 2-12. Kids are divided into three age groups as “Junior Sailors,” “First Mates,” and “Navigators.” There are sing-a-longs, arts and crafts, indoor and outdoor games, magic shows, and pajama parties.

The Kids’ Crew offers activities at night, too! Parents can feed their kids an early dinner at the fantastic buffet and then enjoy a romantic dinner alone or a show while their kids have a blast with new friends.

The Star features one of the largest children’s facilities at sea, a 5,500-square-foot, fun-filled area outfitted with computers, craft tables, and a playground. At the Splash Down water-play area, kids can swirl down slides and splash in wading pools.

1. R Family Vacations suggests you include some or all of the following:
2. Short and long-sleeved shirts
3. Bathing suit
4. Cotton pants & shorts
5. Two to three different weight sweaters
6. Sweatshirts or outfits of fleece
7. Lightweight thermal underwear
8. Cotton slacks (khakis, jeans, corduroy)
9. Gloves
10. Warm hat
11. Warm jacket
12. Lightweight rain gear
13. Waterproof windbreaker
14. Travel alarm clock
15. A small backpack; a waterproof bag to hold camera and/or binoculars
16. 1 pair of binoculars
17. Camera, lenses and plenty of film, extra memory cards, batteries
18. Zip-lock plastic bags as added protection for camera, film, etc.
19. Comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles and good support (for on board ship and shore excursions). Most people find tennis shoes or sneakers suitable.
20. Waterproof boots with a strong non-skid sole or good pair of water repellent hiking boots
21. Prescription medicines. If certain medicines are part of your daily health regimen and are vital to your health, make sure you bring an adequate supply for the duration of your trip. Your medications should be packed in your carry-on luggage.
22. Lotions / crèmes for sun and wind protection
23. White noise machine

http://www.rfamilyvacations.com/cruise_alaska/shiptour.php#

Meet the Norwegian Star

Norwegian Cruise Line

The perfect ships for R Family Vacations!

With Norwegian Cruise Line, Freestyle Cruising® is all about flexibility and freedom. At R Family Vacations, everyone is welcome: Gay, Straight, Old, Young (kids included!). NCL’s style of cruising is a perfect fit for the R Family Vacations guest.

Freedom from stress.Freedom from schedules.Freedom to create your own vacation.On an R Family Cruise aboard the NCL Star, you can eat where you want, when you want, with whom you want. And with up to 13 different restaurants and dining rooms on board, you can certainly eat whatever you want. You can also dress the way you want (we’ve never had a dress code) and, at the end of your cruise, get off the ship whenever and however work best for you.

Because NCL has the youngest fleet on the planet, you also know you’re getting the coolest, hippest, most innovative vacation on water. R Family Vacations offers the best entertainment at sea and programming and activities for everyone. There are activities galore both on board and on shore. And, with the widest array of accommodations, you’re sure to find the perfect combination of staterooms no matter how many people are cruising with you.

On NCL, you’re always free to whatever. With R Family Vacations, everyone is welcome so bring your friends and family and get ready for the best vacation ever!

Freestyle accommodations. NCL has the widest choice of accommodations afloat, the largest suites, extraordinary villas and the most interconnecting suites and staterooms to fit groups of any size, so whether it’s two for a romantic getaway or 20 for a family reunion, you’ll find the stateroom or suite that’s perfect for you. Choose from one of our “family suites” where you can fit up to nine guests for one price.

Freestyle dining. Dining on an NCL cruise is unlike any other cruise line. We have no set dining times, dining partners or dress codes — plus up to 13 restaurants and dining rooms on board every ship for cuisine to suit your every mood. On NCL, you’re always free to eat whatever you want, whenever you want and with whomever you want.

Freestyle fun. NCL has the youngest fleet on the planet, which means you’ll get the most innovative experience on water. Exciting nightlife, tons of family fun, shore excursions for everyone and much more.There are so many things to do both on board and on shore that boredom isn’t even an option.

Cruise: Nile in Style Cruise

When: November 20^th to December 1^st, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Hanns Ebensten Travel Tour

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Cairo, Egypt

Visits: Giza, The Pyramids, Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel (Optional), Nag’ el Mamariya, Western Thebes; the Queen’s Temple, Karnak and Luxor Temples: extension begins, Luxor Extension: Dendera and Abydos Temples, Siwa & Alexandria Extension

Basic Itinerary:

What are the key dates of the November 2009 Nile in Style cruise?

Please note that Day 1 of the itinerary, November 20^th, 2009, is the arrival day in Cairo. The actual dates are:

November 19^th, 2009: North American travelers depart from home.

November 20^th to December 1^st, 2009: Main Tour, including three nights in Cairo/Giza, one week on the ss Karim, and the night of November30^th near Cairo Airport, allowing flights late in the evening of November 30^th or in the morning of December 1^st.

December 3^rd: Luxor Extension ends with the night of December 2^nd near Cairo Airport

December 3^rd to 10^th: Siwa Extension, with the night of December 9^th near the Cairo Airport.

Pricing Info:

November 20^th to December 1^st, 2009: $5,600: A trip for gay men.

What are the prices of the cabins on the ss Karim?

These are the 2009 cabin prices based on the ss Karim accommodations selected:

Staterooms No. 1, 2 or 14: each with private balcony and one large bed:

Two friends sharing, per person
$6,150

Single occupancy * $7,200

Staterooms No. 3, 5, 11 or 12: each with one large bed:

Two friends sharing, per person $5,400

Single occupancy *$6,500

Staterooms No. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or 15: each with two twin beds:

Two guests sharing, per person $5,400

Single occupancy *$6,500

Staterooms No. 4 or 16: each with one large bed, for single occupancy * $6,300

What are the costs of the Abu Simbel excursion and the 2-Night Luxor Extension on the 2009 tours?

Half-Day Abu Simbel Excursion including flight from Aswan and guided tour: 
$230 per person (subject to change based on airfares)

Two-Night Extension in Luxor: Double occupancy, per person $650 
Single $850

One-Week Extension to Siwa and Alexandria 
Double occupancy, per person $1900 
Single $2100

Price includes:

Accommodations at fine hotels for three nights in Cairo, on our chartered ship for seven nights, and for one night near Cairo Airport, in double occupancy (single supplement $1100 in 2009); All transportation by motorcoaches, cars, horse-drawn carriages, and boats when traveling as a group; Arrival and departure airport transfers in Cairo; Domestic airport departure taxes when traveling with the group; All meals during the main tour except two lunches; Wine or soft drinks at the Welcome and Farewell dinners; Services of a knowledgeable Hanns Ebensten Travel tour director and an Egyptologist; Admission fees to all locations listed in itinerary; Meal and driver gratuities; Porterage at hotels.

Not included:

Airfare between home and Cairo; Airfare between Cairo and Luxor (booked as part of international ticket or as a tour option); Optional half-day excursion to Abu Simbel including 30-minute flight from Aswan and guided tour (2009 price: $230 per person); Optional 2-night extension in Luxor, including hotel, most meals, full day excursion to Dendera and Abydos, and Karnak sound & light show (2009 prices: $650 per person in double occupancy, $850 in single room); Optional 7-night extension to the Siwa Oasis and Alexandria (2009 prices: $1900 per person double occupancy, $2100 in single room); Two lunches; Tips to Egyptologist, local guides, hotel and ship staffs and gratuity for the Hanns Ebensten Travel tour director; International departure taxes; Personal items such as alcoholic beverages, telephone calls and laundry.

Detailed Itinerary:

Highlights of this trip include:

• Stand in awe as you observe the grandeur of the three great pyramids and the Sphinx.
• Gaze at items from King Tut’s tomb at the Egyptian Museum.
• Enjoy a week of luxury aboard a chartered yacht built for kings.
• Explore the ancient temples of Upper Egypt including those of Queen Hatshepsut, Karnak and Luxor.
• From Aswan, cross the Nile on an ancient sailboat known as a felucca to visit an abandoned monastery high up in the golden desert hills.
• Optional half-day excursion to see the 4 great-seated figures of Abu Simbel.
• Hone your bargaining skills in the bazaars of Cairo, Aswan and Luxor.
• Optional two-day post-tour Luxor Extension, featuring a visit to the well-preserved temples of Dendera and Abydos and the Karnak Temple sound and light show.
• Additional one-week post-tour Extension to the unique Siwa Oasis in the Western Desert and the ancient city of Alexandria.

1-3: Cairo, Giza and the Pyramids!

We arrive at Cairo Airport at noon local time, if flying on Egyptair from New York, and drive across the Nile. We stay three nights at the lovely Mena House Oberoi Hotel with its attractive gardens, terraces and fine restaurants, overlooking the grand pyramids at Giza. We will enjoy a reception and our Welcome Dinner at our hotel as we begin our journey into Egyptian history and culture.

The next morning after breakfast, we take the short drive to see the plateau dominated by the pyramids of Cheops, Chephren and Mycerius, and by the Sphinx. For those who are not claustrophobic, exploring inside one of the pyramids is an awesome experience. We also inspect the beautifully restored solar boat of King Chephren and enter the Valley Temple in which the mummified body of the king rested before being interred in his pyramid.

In the evening, we will attend the spectacular Sound and Light performance at Giza, unforgettably set against the backdrop of the three great pyramids and the Sphinx.

The next day we tour Cairo, the greatest metropolis of the Middle East, to explore highlights of Islamic Cairo. In the morning we visit the alabaster Mohammed Ali Mosque on the Citadel overlooking the modern downtown, and the rarely-visited Gayer-Anderson House, the former home of Great Britain’s last pasha. In the afternoon we tour the Egyptian Museum, including the fabulous jewels of King Tutankhamon.

4-5: Esna and Edfu Temples

After checking out from our Cairo hotel, we fly to Luxor, where we drive to the harbor and embark on the ss Karim for our 7-night cruise, with full breakfast, luncheon, afternoon tea and dinner daily.

During our week’s cruise we enjoy our ship’s amenities and the ever-changing river scenery of palm trees, rolling hills, golden sand dunes and cultivated land. We’ll pass several villages where, from the ship’s sundecks, we can view the activities on the riverbank. There are also splendid opportunities for bird watching. The captain will decide on the exact order and timing of our shore visits, but during the week we will go ashore to visit the temples of Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo and those of Luxor, as well as the unique pyramid of El Kula. The following gives an example of what we will see on a typical cruise.

Once aboard our ship we have dinner while sailing upstream to Esna where the ss Karim is raised through a lock some forty feet to the upper level of the river. We spend the night in Esna harbor, then in the morning visit the temple of Khnum, the creator god. Later in the day we visit Edfu, where we drive in horse-drawn carriages to the enormous and best preserved temple in upper Egypt, dedicated to Horus, the sacred falcon god.

6: Kom Ombo

As we get closer to Aswan, we tie off for a night at Kom Ombo, then in the morning inspect the Roman double temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and to Haroeris, a form of the sun god. This temple is most picturesquely sited on the riverbank, a short walk from our dock.

We reach Aswan in the afternoon and dock for a couple of days in this enchanting town with its near-perfect dry climate and amazing texture of light. You may wish to stroll through the bazaar where Nubian spices, handicrafts and charms are for sale and where gallabiya outfits are custom-made overnight.

7: Aswan

Today we will board a traditional boat called a felucca, then tack across the river under a billowing white sail to see the abandoned 6th Century Coptic monastery of Saint Simeon, set on a hillside overlooking the golden desert across the river from the city. We will also stroll through the fine Aswan Botanic Garden on Kitchener Island.

Today we will also visit the Aswan High Dam, which was so controversial when it was built, but which supplies a large part of Egypt’s power, and the unfinished obelisk, whose workers carved out a huge slab of rock, but stopped suddenly, leaving it jutting out from the quarry.

In the evening, Nubian dancers and musicians come on board to entertain us, with one turning into a whirling dervish, who spins fast and continuously for more than 10 minutes!

8: Abu Simbel Option

This morning is free to explore Aswan’s bazaar on your own, or to join our optional extension to visit Abu Simbel. The extension includes a 30-minute flight, then a guided tour to view the rock tombs that were raised from the riverbank so they would not be inundated as Lake Nasser filled up behind the High Dam. They rank among the most stupendous monuments of ancient Egypt and mark the most southern extent of the kingdom of the Pharaoh Rameses II.

After returning from Abu Simbel, we set sail back toward Luxor, riding fast on the downstream current while we enjoy the amenities of the ship, including afternoon tea on the deck as we watch the ever-changing life along the river.

9: Way off the Beaten Path

One of today’s highlights will be anchoring near the village of Nag’ el Mamariya and walking past sugarcane fields and palm groves to the curious small pyramid of El Kûla. It uniquely has its corners, not its sides, oriented to the cardinal points of the compass. But while the pyramid is what draws us to this particular village, it is the experience of witnessing daily life in a village that rarely sees tourists that is the abiding memory for most travelers in our group. (There is no Nile pier at this village, so only our small ship is able to get close enough to shore to put out a plank for stepping ashore.)

Sugarcane thrives in the rich soil along the river, so during their harvesting seasons, it may be possible to see tiny narrow-gauge steam engines pulling up to 40 cars of tightly packed sugar cane from the fields around the village.

During one recent trip we observed a mother selling freshly baked bread from a blanket in front of her home, young boys on donkeys following us on the path and practicing their very limited English, and the mayor in his distinguished robes shooing away the youngest children to make sure no-one begged from their honorable visitors. Contrary to stereotypes, it was also fascinating to see the variety of clothing on both adults and children in this, the most conservative town we visited along the River. Some girls and women wore modest headscarves (usually in very stylish colors!), but others wore western clothes and did not cover their heads. Likewise, while many of the boys and men wore the traditional gallabiya robes, others wore button-down shirts and blue jeans.

Late in the day we pass back through the Esna lock, and arrive in Luxor, where our ship will anchor for two nights. Luxor is the modern name for ancient Thebes, once the capital of Egypt, which consists of two cities lying on the west and east banks of the Nile.

10: Western Thebes; the Queen’s Temple

We cross to Western Thebes early in the morning for a busy day of sightseeing, starting with the Tombs of the Nobles. There is no electricity in the tombs so their custodians hold up mirrors to throw light onto walls painted with amazingly bright, lively scenes of everyday life in Egypt 3000 years ago. We drive on to the grand Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and then to the Valley of the Kings, where we inspect several of the tombs, including that of Tutankhamon (if it is open to visitors).

A typically Egyptian luncheon is provided on the terrace of an inn near Medinet Habu. In the afternoon we stop to see the Ramesseum, with a massive fallen statue of Ramses, and we make a brief photo stop at the two weather-beaten Colossi of Memnon, before returning to the ss Karim for our last night.

11: Karnak and Luxor Temples; begin extension

This morning we disembark our ship and transfer our luggage to our Luxor hotel where we will stay for our 2-night extension. For those departing to Cairo this evening, we will store your luggage while we visit the temples, then arrange a transfer to Luxor Airport in time for your flight. Rooms will be reserved at a hotel near the Cairo airport until flight time, whether during the night or the next morning.

Our exploration of Eastern Thebes begins with the immense Temple of Karnak, the largest religious buildings in the world. Ancient Egyptians came to present petitions at more than twenty sites within the temple complex, the most impressive being the vast Hypostyle Hall of Seti I. It has been said that the pyramids are more stupendous, the Coliseum in Rome covers more ground, and the Parthenon of Athens is more serene, but for sheer majesty, this hall with its gigantic columns exceeds them all. It is truly one of the wonders of the world. We also visit the ruins of the impressive Temple of Luxor before returning to our hotel or to the airport.

In the evening, those on the extension will enjoy the sound and light show at the Temple of Karnak. Each “act” of the show is performed in a different part of the temple, with the audience walking from stage to stage.

12: Luxor Extension: Dendera and Abydos Temples

From Luxor we travel by bus to the Ptolemaic Temple of Hathor at Dendera. This is one of the best preserved of Egypt’s ancient temples, built in the 1st Century B.C. on the site of an earlier Old Kingdom temple. Columns with capitals bearing heads of Hathor support the large Hypostyle Hall. Of special interest are staircases that lead onto the roof, where we find several chapels, one with a famous zodiac ceiling, and a kiosk that is a shrine to Osiris. On the south outside wall of the temple are large reliefs, including one depicting Cleopatra, and said by many to be a true portrait of the queen with Caesarion, her son by Julius Caesar. Because Dendera is 30 miles beyond Luxor, most tourists do not visit there, so we are more likely to tour the temple in the company of inquisitive school children and students from nearby colleges than with other foreign tourists.

Today we will also be among the few to visit Abydos, one of the most important archaeological sites in Egypt, where we will see the Memorial Temple of Seti I.

13: Extension: Return to Cairo

This morning we will drive to the Luxor Airport for the one-hour flight to Cairo. We transfer to a hotel near the airport where rooms are reserved until late evening or the morning, based on your departure times. Depending on the time of our arrival in Cairo, we may visit Cairo’s famous Khan-el-Khalili bazaar, then have dinner together before our departures for home or for the Siwa Oasis and Alexandria.

14: Departure Day or Start Siwa Extension

Those of us on Egyptair to New York transfer to the airport for our morning nonstop flight, which arrives at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York in mid-afternoon. After clearing US Immigration and Customs, tour members with destinations in other parts of North America may make suitable connections. (Please confirm flight times with us before making onward reservations.)

Those joining the Siwa Extension (only offered for selected Nile in Style departures) will depart from our hotel near Cairo Airport and head west into the desert toward Siwa today. Because of the remote and unique nature of this excursion, the itinerary is subject to change, but following is the planned itinerary for the Siwa extension:

Days 1 and 2: Nine hour drive from Cairo to Siwa, with an overnight stop at a seaside resort near El Alamein.

Days 3 and 4: Daily explorations of the village of Shali, surrounding archeological sites, and the lush countryside of the oasis.

Day 5: Drive from Siwa back along the coast to Alexandria, where we stay for two nights.

Day 6: Explore the antiquities of Alexandria, including the National Museum with artifacts from the ancient library and the lighthouse, Pompey’s Pillar, Roman catacombs, and the Montazah Gardens.

Day 7: In the afternoon, drive from Alexandria to our hotel near Cairo Airport, so flights can be booked for the night of Day 7 or on Day 8.

Day 8: Departure day for home.

15-21: Siwa & Alexandria Extension

Our journey takes us to one of the most isolated of Egypt’s oases in the vast Western Desert, 300 miles from the Nile. Siwa was celebrated in antiquity for its Temple of the god Ammon, to which people from all over the Mediterranean region, Asia, and Africa traveled to consult its oracle. Alexander the Great visited it in 331 BC, guided across the desert by crows, and the temple priests crowned him with the rams’ horns of Ammon. We will explore the temple as well as many historical sites. We will also ride into the desert to watch sunset over the majestic sands and experience a culture practically unknown to modern travelers.

The oasis is extremely fertile and its 300,000 date palms and extensive olive groves and fruit orchards have made its inhabitants prosperous. The main town, Shali, used to be fortified, and the oasis tribe of warriors, the zaggala—their name means “club bearer” in the Siwa language—defended it against desert raiders.

For many centuries, it has been the custom that these stalwart men may not reside in town and may not marry until the age of forty, and they live a carefree bachelor life with each other in the palm groves, cultivating the dates and olives. Scholarly reports from the early 20th century describe some of the rituals and customs of these men, including much drinking of loubki, the highly intoxicating liquor made from the hearts of palm trees, and boisterous dances and songs. Since the 1940s the more conservative Egyptian authorities have forbidden these uninhibited ceremonies (which are reputed to continue in secrecy) but the oasis still is an all-male enclave: all the staff in the hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops and offices are men, most of them wearing the traditional gallabiya robes, and they are courteous and polite to strangers. Women are sequestered in their houses and only rarely does one glimpse a female figure shrouded from head to feet in a blue cotton tarfottet. Even the donkeys that draw the oasis’ hundreds of ubiquitous two-wheeled carts are all male!

Travel info:

Egypt, the wonder of travelers for thousands of years, calls us for our annual pilgrimage to the treasures of this fascinating land. We offer an intimate experience for inquisitive travelers who wish to delve deeply into the history of civilization. From the finest accommodations in Cairo to our own luxurious ship on the Nile, every detail is designed to offer our guests the most memorable experience possible.

We invite up to twenty-five guests to join us as we sail down the Nile on the ssKarim, a traditional paddle steamer built for kings. From our comfortable home on the water, the riches of antiquity become our backdrop as we leisurely cruise through the land of the pharaohs and visit the famous sites to explore their treasures.

In Cairo we spend three nights at one of the city’s finest hotels, next to the pyramids in Giza. From this elegant base we first visit the pyramids, then cross over to Cairo to tour the lauded Egyptian Museum. En route we’ll see some of the Pharaonic, Classic, Early Christian, and Arab monuments built in this ancient land over the course of five thousand years of civilization.

From Cairo we fly to Luxor where we board our ship. For one glorious week, we cruise slowly on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan in our privately chartered, historic paddle steamer, watching village life virtually unchanged for a millennium. Each day we go ashore to visit major archeological sites including: the Karnak and Luxor Temples, the Valley of the Kings in Western Thebes, and the splendid temples of Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo. Fabulous as these sites are, our journey is made truly meaningful because we refuse to rush you. As our ship cruises along the Nile, we take plenty of time for relaxation and contemplation between our busy days of sightseeing. Previous tour members particularly enjoyed our forays into the countryside where they could establish a friendly rapport with the courteous Egyptian people who have welcomed our groups for over thirty years. Travelers joining only the main tour will disembark from the ship, fly from Luxor to Cairo, then spend their last night in Egypt at a hotel near Cairo Airport.

Travelers on the Luxor Extension will spend two nights at the historic Old Winter Palace Hotel in Luxor (subject to availability), with a full day excursion to visit the well-preserved Ptolemaic Temple of Hathor at Dendera and the Memorial Temple of Seti I at Abydos, two sites rarely visited by tourists to Egypt. After two days of exploring the Luxor region, they will return to Cairo to spend the last night of the Extension at a hotel near Cairo Airport.

Siwa and Alexandria

In the spirit of adventure, which has been a hallmark of Hanns Ebensten Travel for over thirty-five years, we offer an extension to Siwa based on an expedition by our founder Hanns Ebensten. Hanns wrote, “I went to Siwa on my own in January 2005, and although I am a devoted admirer of Easter Island, the monasteries of Mount Athos, and the Inca and pre-Inca remains in Peru, Siwa appealed to me, even far more than those magical places. It was the most moving and stimulating travel experience of my life.” (And it was the last tour that he led in his 50-year career of leading memorable tours)

The beautiful, fertile oasis of Siwa is without doubt one of the world’s most romantic and unusual places. It is the most remote and isolated oasis in Egypt’s Western Desert and was celebrated in antiquity for the Temple of Ammon. Alexander the Great visited the oracle of the Temple in 331 BC, guided across the desert to the oasis by crows.This special trip will begin after the Luxor Extension of our Nile in Style trip. We start the journey with a two-day drive across the desert, a total of about nine driving hours, arriving into Siwa by descending from a desert pass into the lush greenery of the oasis. We then spend three nights in an authentic 8-room lodge in the main town of the oasis, and venture out each day to explore this unique environment. We will be privileged to meet some of the zagallas, or datepickers, who live among the date palms with each other until their early 40s, when they return to the town to get married.

Our return journey will include two nights in Alexandria, exploring this fascinating Mediterranean seaport with its mix of the ancient and modern. We finish our tour with one night at a Cairo Airport hotel, allowing for departures anytime that night or on the official last day of the Extension.

Travelling Alone? 
So are most of the people who travel with us. You do not need to pay extra to travel by yourself. Prices are per-person, and the single supplement applies only if you’d like a room by yourself.

What kind of weather should I expect?

The weather in Egypt in the early and late winter is generally sunny; and temperatures in Cairo range from a maximum of 80° Fahrenheit during the day to a minimum of 50° at night. Cold waves occasionally blow across the sea from Europe, but they tend to be short-lived.

The daytime temperature in Upper Egypt is usually about ten degrees higher, without any humidity, but nights are often quite cold. Rain is most exceptional in Cairo, and virtually none falls in Aswan, Abu Simbel and other areas south of Luxor.

Ship Info:

What is the boat, the ss Karim, like?

The ss Karim is of a type developed in the 19th Century to accommodate fastidious early travelers to Egypt. Built in Scotland in 1917 for Egypt’s King Fuad, and later used by King Farouk and Presidents Nasser and Sadat, it has been stylishly refurbished, and now combines the grandeur of its distinguished past with all the comforts of today, including air-conditioning throughout (but not heat), and compact but modern bathrooms in each cabin.

Our ship is 151 feet long and 33 feet wide, with a draft of 5 feet. All the modern technical installations – radar, water-purifying equipment, etc. – are in accordance with the regulations of the US Bureau of Shipping, and during the ship’s restoration all walls and ceilings were fire-proofed and sound-proofed.

We are hesitant to describe anything as being luxurious, but the ss Karim’s public rooms and staterooms unquestionably qualify for this accolade as befitting the style of its day. The ship is not merely comfortable; rather, its gracious ambience enables us truly to cruise the Nile in style.

The lounge resembles that of a traditional British men’s club, with its upholstered settees and armchairs, and an elegant bar. The dining room, too, is superbly appointed, with seating at tables for four and six persons.

The ship boasts three spacious, open decks. The shaded deck is furnished with cane chairs and tables where afternoon tea is served. The two sun decks are ideal for enjoying the views of the passing riverbanks and village activities, and feature large lounge chairs, a cool-water Jacuzzi, and even a treadmill.

Can you describe the staterooms on the boat?

The fifteen staterooms are exceptionally large for a river ship. Average dimensions are 10 feet by 14 feet with 8-foot ceilings. Each features private bath and shower, one or two wide picture windows with heavy wood shutters, double or twin beds, armchairs, a dressing table and a hanging closet designed for an age when travelers took along cabin trunks. Three of the roomiest staterooms lead onto private balconies in the bow and stern of the ship.

Where are the crew members from, and what are meals like on the ship?

The ship’s highly professional crew members are all Egyptian, with most being from Luxor, Aswan or the villages in between. Most of them speak some English, and are anxious to demonstrate traditional Egyptian hospitality to guests.

Breakfast and luncheon are buffet-style. Afternoon tea with pastries (a relic of the British influence on Egypt) is served on deck by uniformed waiters, to the accompaniment of 1920’s music. Dinner has a different theme every evening, from the Captain’s Welcome Dinner to the 1920’s evening to the Nubian night with music and dancers, when some of our group don their new Egyptian finery.

Cruise: Caribbean Halloween Cruise

When: October 25^th to November 1^st, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Olivia

Type: All-Lesbian

Departs: Tampa, Florida

Visits: Key West, Belize City, Santo Tomas de Castilla, Cozumel, Tampa

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Other Info:

Just added! Spice up your Halloween with our onboard Good Vibrations’ sex seminars! We’ve partnered with Good Vibrations to make your Halloween a whole lot spicier. Dr. Carol Queen, Good Vibrations Sexologist, will teach you all the tricks so you get lots of treats! Workshop topics will include: Flirting 101; Spice Up Your Vacation; Get What You Want In and Out of Bed; Spicing it up with Toys: A guide to bringing toys into partner play; and You’re into What? When someone you love is kinky; and How to Have Better Orgasms.

What a way to celebrate Halloween—on a trip with 1,250 lesbians! Get out your best pirate costume (or not) and hop aboard! Great Olivia music and comedy will keep you dancing and laughing, and our new itinerary with exciting ports is sure to please—we’re headed to Belize, Cozumel, Key West and Guatemala. We’ll even be in Key West for Fantasy Fest!

Your Experience

Get ready for fun in the sun with our exciting new itinerary as we cruise to Key West, Cozumel, Belize and Guatemala. Watch a dramatic sunset in Key West—there are only 4 evenings a year that cruise ships are permitted to stay past sunset, and we will be there for one! Cozumel is one of the world’s top diving destinations, and Belize is an eco-tourist’s paradise where sting rays glide over the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Whether you seek out ancient Mayan ruins or just relax by the pool, you’ll be surrounded by the fun, fantastic women of Olivia. Throughout the week, you’ll enjoy endless Olivia entertainment—from the Oldywed/Newlywed game to comedy performances and music.

Your Activities:

From our own Olivia Halloween costume party to spicy sex seminars given by Good Vibrations Sexologist, Carol Queen, this cruise has something for everyone. Workshop topics will include:  Flirting 101; Spice Up Your Vacation; Get What You Want In and Out of Bed; Spicing it up with Toys: A guide to bringing toys into partner play; and You’re into What? When someone you love is kinky; and How to Have Better Orgasms. Of course, you can also hang out with your Olivia friends, take in a music or comedy show, go dancing or sit by the pool and watch the wet and wacky pool games. And singles, we’ve got dozens of activities just for you. In port, stroll the beach, explore the local markets or get adventurous on an excursion. Cozumel is one of the world’s top diving destinations, and Belize is an eco-tourist’s paradise where sting rays glide over the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Plus, we’ll have our own Olivia Halloween costume party. Welcome to the world of unlimited fun!

Vickie Shaw returns to Olivia with her slow paced (she’s southern), incredibly endearing, (she’s southern), sharp, don’t mess with her (she’s southern!), comedy. Vickie doesn’t have to go far from home for material – as a recovering SoB (Southern Baptist) and out lesbian mother, she’s successfully raised two sons (one of whom is married and just gave her a “perfect baby granddaughter”), has a teenage daughter still living at home, and a “husbian” in Sgt. Patch. Yeah there’s enough material there to fill a few hours. Vickie has performed in almost every State in the US, and had headlined in too many venues to list here but trust us, this girl’s been around.

Vicci Martinez, the 24-year-old Tacoma WA native, has been turning people on to her music since she was 14, when she started playing rooms she wasn’t old enough to be in. Even then, her music moved people. With dubious crowds looking on, Vicci stood firm, this little frame, and this pretty face, and a guitar that almost tipped her over. And then she’d sing. This huge, powerful, and beautiful voice that ripped through the room and made believers of them all.

Years later, not all that much has changed. The rooms are bigger, Vicci’s core following more devout, but she’s still breaking stereotypes and all expectations. Vicci has carved her niche in the musical echelon, and has done it her way. “The music business is a scary thing. Just like a currant, always moving, always changing, and if you don’t flow with it, you drown, or you at least work a lot harder. I feel like we do our own thing. For the right reasons, music can be healing, bring smiles to your faces, or tears to your eyes.”

Wearing high heels and clutching cocktails, The Wau Wau Sisters, NYC’s bravest and bawdiest burlesque duo, are, as The NY Times calls them “irreverent, sacrilegious, foul-mouthed and uninhibited.”

The Wau Wau Sisters careen through a show full of surprises, teetering on the brink of a delicious disaster! Dirty songs and double entendres mix with irreverent circus routines and guilty pop culture pleasures as old-time variety gets a new twist with brilliant executions of “bad ideas,” like their signature “audience participation costume changes.”

Challenging the state of reverence and preciousness of the Cirque du Soleil aesthetic, the Wau Wau Sisters carve out a new niche for circus events—right in front of you, so close you can see the tear in their fishnets, the sinew of their muscles and the sweat on their skin.

Julie Wolf is a multi-instrumentalist and singer who, besides making music of her own, has established herself as a sensitive, eclectic, collaborative, first-call side player. She has toured and recorded with luminaries in the jazz, folk, funk and rock/pop worlds, including Ani DiFranco (4 1/2 years as DiFranco’s keyboardist), Maceo Parker, Bruce Cockburn, Dar Williams, Catie Curtis, Kris Delmhorst, Laura Love, Wayne Horvitz, Robin Holcomb, and jazz singer Rhiannon, among others. She’s brought her memorably simple, pure musicality to stages across the world, as well as to a growing number of critically acclaimed recordings.

Preceding the globe trotting touring and recording that has kept her busy for the last decade, Wolf had a seasoned jazz life, having been part of Seattle’s jazz community for many years.

The ms Ryndam has a casual, comfortable atmosphere that will truly make it feel like your “home away from home”. The dining rooms have extensive sea vistas, there are wide teak decks for strolling, and spacious staterooms—many with private verandahs—for relaxing. At the heart of the ms Ryndam a three-story atrium features a monumental fountain created by sculptor Gilbert Lebigre in Pietrasanta, Italy. The ms. Ryndam is built with your comfort and pleasure in mind, with details such as string quartet serenades in the splendid Rotterdam Dining Room and a plush two-deck Vermeer Show Lounge where you’ll take in great evening shows. Welcome aboard for a fantastic journey!

Before Your Trip

What’s included and what’s not:

Just about everything is included in your fare: your cabin, meals, certain drinks (coffee, hot and iced tea, milk, and juice during meals), room service, gratuities to your cabin steward, waiter, busperson and maitre d’, Olivia entertainment, music, dancing and non-stop fun.

The following items are not included: airfare, transfers to and from the airport, travel insurance, personal items, alcohol, soft drinks, bottled water, spa services, beauty salon services, boutique purchases, telephone, fax, internet access, shore excursions, ship’s photos, bingo, casino activities, fuel surcharge, and medical attention.

NDA charges are not included in the price of the trip but have already been added to your reservation as reflected on your invoice.

Travel documentation and identification

You will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip. If you are not a US citizen, please check with your country’s consulate to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.

Vaccinations

Please check with your local Public Heath Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web site at: www.cdc.gov. Just click on “Traveler’s Health” and then “Vaccinations.”

Travel insurance

We encourage all guests to purchase additional travel insurance. We recommend Travelex (www.travelex-insurance.com). In order to receive the most comprehensive coverage, please purchase your Travelex insurance within 21 days of your initial invoice. If you have questions about their coverage or pre-existing condition waivers, please contact Travelex directly at 800.228.9792 and refer location to number 05-0095.

Joining the Olivia.com trip group

If you’d like to chat with people who are going on the trip, sign up for the official Olivia trip group, Caribbean Halloween.

About Our Destination

Currency

You will often be able to use US dollars, but the local currencies are: Mexican peso (Mexico); Belize dollar (Belize); and the Guatemalan quetzal (Guatemala).

Languages

Spanish, English

Travel and arrival

Air travel

Where to fly into/out of

You will need to fly into and out of Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is located approximately 15-20 minutes (15 miles) from the port terminal. We encourage all passengers to arrive a day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.

Suggested arrival/departure times

Guests arriving in Tampa on the day of sailing (October 25, 2009) should arrive no later than 2PM. Return flights must be after 12PM.

Discount airfare offer

American Airlines offers Olivia travelers a discounted rate. When you book your trip, you will receive a discount code that can be used by calling 800.433.1790 or visiting www.aa.com. Dates of travel are September 20, 2008 – September 27, 2008.

Luggage allowances

While there is no luggage limit on the cruise itself, airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances.

Transfers and meeting up with Olivia

Getting to your pre-trip hotel

Please check back for a pre-trip hotel recommendation.

Getting to your ship

You can take a taxi from the airport to the port for approximately $15 dollars.

Transfers after your trip

see below

Check in

Ship

Check in begins at 11:30AM. Embarkation begins at 1:00PM. All aboard by 4:00PM for lifeboat drill.

During your trip

Amenities

Cabin amenities include: individual stateroom thermostats, 24-hour room service, hair dryers, 24-hour front desk, laundry, pressing and dry cleaning as well as self-service laundry, telephone and television. (Television and telephone are available when signal permits). There are fees for laundry and dry cleaning, as well as phone use.

Ship amenities include: casino, fitness center, spa services, swimming pools, Jacuzzis, shopping boutiques, photo center, 24-hour Internet center, laundry service, and a movie theater. There is a fee for some of these services/amenities. There will also be plenty of dancing, music, and entertainment.

Dining

Seating policy

Seating is open so you may sit where you wish! We will have a special solos dining area for those traveling alone.

Times

The first dinner seating is at 6:30PM and the second seating is at 8:30PM. You will be assigned a dining time when you book your reservation. Restaurant hours will be listed in your daily program.

Restaurants

Rotterdam Dining Room:

The Rotterdam dining room features impeccable service and an extensive wine list. Five-course menus include continental cuisine, vegetarian and low-carb options.

24-Hour Room Service

If you would like to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or a midnight snack in the comfort of your cabin, a room service menu is available 24 hours a day. Refer to your in-cabin service guide.

The Lido Restaurant

The Lido Restaurant features both an indoor, air-conditioned restaurant and portable buffet bars outside on the deck, offering some healthy choices, such as, make-it-yourself deli sandwiches, pasta dishes, Italian salads and entrees. Stir fry as well as hamburgers, sandwiches, desserts and the daily ice cream bar are also offered. Have  breakfast, lunch or for dinner in a relaxed ambiance.

The Pinnacle Grill – Specialty Restaurant

The Pinnacle Grill, the ms. Vendeem’s specialty restaurant, is a great addition to your dining options. Spoil yourself with exquisite menus and a fine dining experience, including many wines rated “Excellent” by Wine Spectator.A per-person charge of $35 will be applied to your ship account. Contact the restaurant manager on board for reservations.

Electricity

The cabins have 110 and volt electricity, which is the same as that which is used in the US.

Excursions

Excursions may be booked up to 30 days in advance. Please come back and visit the Trip Itinerary page for your trip to get your booking number and detailed instructions on shore excursions and activities at that time.

Gratuities

Gratuities are included in the cost of the cruise. Gratuities are provided for your cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maitre’d and other-behind-the-scenes crew members.

Internet/e-mail/fax

There is an Internet center on board; minute plans are available and there are approximately 20 terminals. Pricing will be posted onboard. Guests may also bring their own laptops and purchase an Internet wireless plan onboard. Connectivity on board is often very slow, and all guests and ships personnel are using the same feed. Letters and postcards may be mailed from the ship while in ports of call. You may buy stamps in port or purchase them through your onboard account.

Laundry and dry cleaning

Laundry, pressing and dry cleaning service is available onboard. There are also self-service laundry facilities..

Medical services

There is an onboard infirmary. Medical services entail an additional fee.

Money: Paying for things on board

Onboard, the currency is US Dollars. All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you create when you first check in. The ship will process credit card cash advances for a three percent fee at the front office. You can also obtain cash through your onboard account in the casino. Please check with the front office on board for further details.

Phone

Each cabin has a phone. There is an additional fee to use this phone; please check your final informational packet for details.

Smoking policy

We have designated smoking and non-smoking areas on board. The non-smoking areas include all public areas and the port (left) side of all outdoor areas. Smoking is permitted in your cabins, on the starboard (right) side of outside decks and starboard side of the Crow’s Nest.

Spa services

There is a spa onboard, and massages and other services are available for an additional fee.

Solo travelers

We will have a solos program onboard, including dozens of activities for singles and a solos dining area at dinner.

After your Trip

Transfers to the airport

For those going directly to the Tampa airport, you can take a taxi from the port to the airport for approximately $15 dollars, or you can purchase a transfer onboard. Taxis can be scarce after a cruise, so we recommend purchasing a transfer.

Ship Info:

Your Ship

The ms Ryndam has a casual, comfortable atmosphere that will truly make it feel like your “home away from home”. The dining rooms have extensive sea vistas, there are wide teak decks for strolling, and spacious staterooms—many with private verandahs—for relaxing. In fact, Holland America’s staterooms are larger than most. At the heart of the ms Ryndam, a spectacular glass sculpture climbs through the three-story atrium.

Cruise: Alaska Glaciers and Bays

When: September 20^th to 27^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Olivia

Type: All-Lesbians

Departs: Vancouver

Visits: Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Vancouver

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Other Info:

Just added! Join us for a delicious serving of top lesbian chefs! Bravo’s Top Chef contestants Josie Smith-Malave & Jamie Lauren will be with us for the week. Plus, we’re happy to welcome back special guest Betty DeGeneres. This trip just keeps getting better.

Cruise past forested islands and majestic mountain ranges on this Inside Passage Alaskan cruise. Relax on the deck, or on your own private verandah, as you take in the massive glaciers of Glacier Bay National Park and Tracy Arm. Walk in the footsteps of Klondike gold rush prospectors. Dine on fresh salmon and Alaska king crab legs. Experience the rich culture of southeast Alaska Natives. Whale watch, glacier hike, or dogsled. Scan the skies for bald eagles as you stroll the decks and listen to our naturalists. (Naturalists are on board all week, and they do narration throughout the trip, sharing information about the glaciers and wildlife.)

Your Experience

Experience Alaska Olivia style! Whether you are watching the never-ending display of green forests, stately mountains and cascading waterfalls, or snapping photos of thundering calving glaciers, you will experience Alaska up-close and personal with this amazing Inside Passage journey. And you’ll do it surrounded by the women of Olivia! You’ll also get amazing Olivia entertainment, including concerts and comedy shows selected with our community in mind. It’s not just a cruise, it’s an experience!

Your Activities

Marvel at glaciers and icebergs, go whale watching, or experience an Alaska salmon bake. Admire native coastal carvings in Ketchikan, go sea kayaking, or take a tour to observe bears, eagles, and other amazing wildlife. Listen for the thunderous crack of blue-green glacial ice as it falls into the sea. Plus, Bravo’s Top Chef contestants Josie Smith-Malave & Jamie Lauren will be onboard to tease your taste buds with their culinary demonstrations.Through it all, enjoy endless Olivia entertainment—from Olivia Idol to the Oldywed/Newlywed game, comedy performances and concerts.

Your onboard entertainment will include the following fantastic Olivia comedians and musicians: Michele Balan, Suede, Catie Curtis, Sweet Baby Jai, René Hicks, Julie Wolfe and more

Michele Balan was one of the four finalists on NBC’s 2006 “Last Comic Standing,” and she is “The Last Woman Comic… ”

Voted one of the “Top 10 Comics” by Backstage Magazine in 2004, Michele Balan is a brash, New York Stand-up comedian who has performed on Comedy Central as well as in top comedy clubs, theatres, festivals and on cruises all over the country.

Often told she was naturally funny, the Brooklyn native left a high-paying executive position at a computer company to pursue comedy – even though comedy has never proved as lucrative – and she has been performing ever since.

She got her start as a “Female female-impersonator,” doing lip sync impressions of Bette Midler. Now people tell her she is like a “Female George Burns with many one-liners.” Michele’s career hast taken her from The Improv in Los Angeles to Caroline’s on Broadway in New York City, and from the Montreal “Just For Laughs Festival” to the “Dinah Shore Women’s Weekend.”

Michele has shared the stage with Kathy Najimy, Jennifer Holiday, Taylor Dayne, Harvey Fierstein, Bruce Vilanch and Nell Carter. In 1999 she recorded a CD at The Improv in Los Angeles which features Nell Carter singing a song parody that Michele wrote.

Michele recently recorded the critically acclaimed DVD entitled “LIVE, Just Barely” at the famed Joe’s Pub, home to the public theatre and performers like Joan Rivers, Eartha Kitt and Leslie Gore, for who she just wrote a comedy segment.

Celebrating 25 years as an independent artist with the release of her new big band CD — “Dangerous Mood,” which is now available! It’s sassy!

Recorded at prestigious Bennett Studios (owned by Tony’s son, Dae) with her NY based trio and “The Dangerous Big Band”, her own hand picked 10 piece big band.

More information and online orders are available now at www.suedewave.com.

“A great voice, even better enthusiasm and an almost giddy delight at entertaining audiences that, if bottled, would make every anti-depressant on the market obsolete.”

- Steppin’ Out Arts, NYC

“A spectacular evening of song and style!”

- New York Times

“Thank you for the most incredible night of my life in an audience.
You are to DIE for!”

- Bea Arthur

Pop/Jazz/Blues phenom Suede plays piano, guitar and trumpet but voice is her first instrument and entertaining is clearly her first love. Imagine a cross between Ella Fitzgerald and Bette Midler, add a dash of Louis Armstrong, and you might get some idea of Suede’s unique musical talents and abilities. She is a consummate entertainer and song stylist among the likes of Tony Bennett and co.—the classic singer’s singer. One part Rat Pack and one part Rosie Clooney, Suede is the swinginest singer in town! Think sophisticated pop/jazz, think naughty blues with a sizzling trumpet, think love songs that will make you swoon, think funny, think wow—what a voice!

Suede’s recording of Roxanna Ward and Lynn DeFino’s “Remember Who You Are” is on HRC’s compilation CD “Being Out Rocks” and was featured on “The Young and The Restless.” She can be heard regularly on NPR radio and her DVD, “Suede, Live at Scullers Jazz Club” is currently being aired on PBS stations nationwide. Her recording of “Emily Remembers” from her CD, “On the Day We Met”, was named the number one song of the year on WJZW radio in Washington, DC and has garnered national radio airplay as well as two OutMusic awards for Suede.

Touring nationally and internationally with her New York based “Dangerous Band” she fills all the best venues—The Kennedy Center to LA’s Ford Amphitheatre; San Francisco’s Rrazz Room to New York’s Town Hall; Scottsdale’s Center for the Arts to Cincinnati’s Aronoff Center for the Arts; Denver’s Mercury Cafe to St. Louis’ Sheldon Hall and much more. She is a proud Olivia artist veteran and has played well over 35 trips at the time of this writing.

Catie Curtis comes from the United States’ East Coast folk music scene where coffeehouses still produce singer/songwriters. Originally from Maine, she grew up in a musical family and began writing and playing in high school and college, before becoming a social worker in Boston while continuing her music.

Catie’s work has been well-received in such venerable institutions as The Birchmere and The Bottom Line. A New York Times review of a February date, describes her… “in a folk-pop field awash with romantic self-dramatization and literary pretension, Ms. Curtis is a promising voice on behalf of truthful understatement.” Curtis’ style is rootsy and folky but with the rhythmic undercurrent of pop/rock music. She performed on the Lilith Fair Tour, and tours now full-time in the US and Europe to a fanbase that has been built over years of returning to the folk clubs and theaters that are the foundation of the acoustic music scene. Her songs have appeared on TV shows from Grey’s Anatomy to Alias, and in many films including the Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen movie “Our Lips Are Sealed.” Curtis recently recorded (in Nashville) her 9th CD, entitled Sweet Life. Sweet Life was released in August 2008 on Compass Records.

Sweet Baby J’ai

Few entertainers can command a stage like the indefatigable, Sweet Baby J’ai. She is a critically acclaimed singer, songwriter, producer, arranger and actress who has toured the world with her distinctive sound. Although J’ai is known for her energetic stage presence and powerful vocals, some critics describe her as a “jazz singer”, a “soul singer”, others as a “blues singer” but all agree that this versatile singer-songwriter is a “storyteller”. She can’t be contained by one genre of music.  Talented both as a vocalist and musician, she takes unconventional instruments, the washboard and spoons, and claims them as her own special sound. As one critic pointed out, “This ain’t no backyard hoe down … she will have you swooning before the concert is over.”

When your mom gives you such a memorable name as “Sweet Baby,” odds are you’re gonna end up in the entertainment industry.  Sweet Baby J’ai continued the family business after sneaking into Kansas City jazz clubs as a kid. With an uncle who worked as a bassist for Billie Holiday and a cousin who played guitar with Dizzy Gillespie, J’ai was constantly surrounded by the music that would become her career.  She has been featured many times on Olivia Cruises, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Playboy Jazz Fest, Casablanca Music Fest, Tokyo, Jarkata and a host of festivals, concert and club venues throughout the world.  She has shared the stage with Herbie Hancock, Joe Sample, Jill Scott, Etta James, Melissa Etheridge and many more; her velvety vocals gracing jazz, soul, and R&B songs. You can check out a dose of her latest cd, Introducing J’ai Michel on this trip designed to soothe your savage beast or feed it!

Here’s a sampling of what critics are saying:

“Her voice is part cream, party honey and all soul.” -New York Times

“Sweet Baby J’ai will no doubt be considered a legend in her own time … She is by any critic’s opinion, the real deal!”  – LN Magazine

“She proved it on all of us in the 1920’s lesbian love story, Prove It On Me … a flawless performance and spine tingling soulful vocalist …” – Tolucan Times

“Show-stopper … a sensational performer” – Durango Herald

“Extraordinary … a stunning performer.” – Jazz Now

“Swinging … powerful … and haunting.” – Los Angeles Times

René Hicks is an unique composite: daughter of a Pentecostal preacher, former accountant, award-winning comedian, cancer survivor, inspirational speaker and laughter advocate. She was the first African-American woman ever nominated for an American Comedy Award for “Best Female Stand-Up”. She has appeared on numerous television shows, including several appearances on Comedy Central, highlighted by her own Comedy Central show – Comedy Central Presents…René Hicks. You may have also recently seen her on the LOGO channel.

Julie Wolf is a multi-instrumentalist and singer who, besides making music of her own, has established herself as a sensitive, eclectic, collaborative, first-call side player. She has toured and recorded with luminaries in the jazz, folk, funk and rock/pop worlds, including Ani DiFranco (4 1/2 years as DiFranco’s keyboardist), Maceo Parker, Bruce Cockburn, Dar Williams, Catie Curtis, Kris Delmhorst, Laura Love, Wayne Horvitz, Robin Holcomb, and jazz singer Rhiannon, among others. She’s brought her memorably simple, pure musicality to stages across the world, as well as to a growing number of critically acclaimed recordings.

Preceding the globe trotting touring and recording that has kept her busy for the last decade, Wolf had a seasoned jazz life, having been part of Seattle’s jazz community for many years.

What’s included and what’s not:

Just about everything is included in your fare: your cabin, meals, certain drinks (coffee, hot and iced tea, milk, and juice during meals), room service, gratuities to your cabin steward, waiter, busperson and maitre d’, Olivia entertainment, music, dancing and non-stop fun.

The following items are not included: airfare, transfers to and from the airport, travel insurance, personal items, alcohol, soft drinks, bottled water, spa services, beauty salon services, boutique purchases, telephone, fax, internet access, shore excursions, ship’s photos, bingo, casino activities, fuel surcharge, and medical attention.

NDA charges are not included in the price of the trip but have already been added to your reservation as reflected on your invoice.

Travel documentation and identification:

You will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip. If you are not a US citizen, please check with both your country’s consulate and the Canadian consulate to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.

Vaccinations:

Please check with your local Public Heath Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web site at: www.cdc.gov. Just click on “Traveler’s Health” and then “Vaccinations.”

Travel insurance:

We encourage all guests to purchase additional travel insurance. We recommend Travelex (www.travelex-insurance.com). In order to receive the most comprehensive coverage, please purchase your Travelex insurance within 21 days of your initial invoice. If you have questions about their coverage or pre-existing condition waivers, please contact Travelex directly at 800.228.9792 and refer location to number 05-0095.

Joining the Olivia.com trip group:

If you’d like to chat with people who are going on the trip, sign up for the official Olivia trip group, Alaska Glaciers and Bays Cruise.

About Our Destination

Currency

The local currency is the US dollar. In Vancouver, it is the Canadian dollar, but US currency is also accepted.

Languages

English

Travel and arrival

Air travel

Where to fly into/out of

You will need to fly into and out of Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which is located approximately 30 minutes away from the cruise ship terminal, Canada Place, which is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver. We encourage all passengers to arrive a day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.

Suggested arrival/departure times

Guests arriving in Vancouver on the day of sailing (September 20, 2009) should arrive no later than 2PM.

Discount airfare offers

American Airlines

American Airlines offers Olivia travelers a discounted rate. When you book your trip, you will receive a discount code that can be used by calling 800.433.1790 or visiting www.aa.com. Dates of travel are September 20, 2008 – September 27, 2008.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines offers Olivia guests flying to and from this trip a 10% discount. Go to www.alaskaair.com/gaytravel and enter code ECCMB0539. Discount applies to lowest published fare.

Luggage allowances

While there is no luggage limit on the cruise itself, airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances.

Transfers and meeting up with Olivia

Getting to your pre-trip hotel

We will be arranging an Olivia rate at a local Vancouver hotel. Please check back for details.

Getting to your ship

You can take a taxi from the airport to the port for approximately $45 Canadian dollars, and/or shared limo for approximately $45-$55 Canadian dollars. There is also a bus service called The Airporter for approximately US$15, CDN$15 that will take guests to Canada Place.

Transfers after your trip

see below

Check in

Ship

Check in begins at 11:30AM. Embarkation begins at 1:00PM. All aboard by 4:00PM for lifeboat drill.

During your trip

Amenities

Cabin amenities include: individual stateroom thermostats, 24-hour room service, hair dryers, 24-hour front desk, laundry, pressing and dry cleaning service, telephone and television. (Television and telephone are available when signal permits). There are fees for laundry and dry cleaning, as well as phone use.

Ship amenities include: casino, fitness center, spa services, swimming pools, Jacuzzis, shopping boutiques, photo center, 24-hour Internet center, laundry service, and a movie theater.There is a fee for some of these services/amenities. There will also be plenty of dancing, music, and entertainment.

Dining

Seating policy

Seating is open so you may sit where you wish! We will have a special solos dining area for those traveling alone.

Times

The first dinner seating is at 6:00PM and the second seating is at 8:15PM. You will be assigned a dining time when you book your reservation. Restaurant hours will be listed in your daily program.

Restaurants

Rotterdam Dining Room:

The Rotterdam dining room features impeccable service and an extensive wine list. Five-course menus include continental cuisine, vegetarian and low-carb options.

24-Hour Room Service

If you would like to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or a midnight snack in the comfort of your cabin, a room service menu is available 24 hours a day. Refer to your in-cabin service guide.

The Lido Restaurant

The Lido Restaurant features both an indoor, air-conditioned restaurant and portable buffet bars outside on the deck, offering some healthy choices, such as, make-it-yourself deli sandwiches, pasta dishes, Italian salads and entrees. Stir fry as well as hamburgers, sandwiches, desserts and the daily ice cream bar are also offered. Have  breakfast, lunch or for dinner in a relaxed ambiance.

The Pinnacle Grill – Specialty Restaurant

The Pinnacle Grill, the ms. Vendeem’s specialty restaurant, is a great addition to your dining options. Spoil yourself with exquisite menus and a fine dining experience, including many wines rated “Excellent” by Wine Spectator.A per-person charge of $35 will be applied to your ship account. Contact the restaurant manager on board for reservations.

Electricity

The cabins have 110 and volt electricity, which is the same as that which is used in the US.

Excursions

Excursions may be booked up to 30 days in advance. Please come back and visit the Trip Itinerary page for your trip to get your booking number and detailed instructions on shore excursions and activities at that time.

Gratuities

Gratuities are included in the cost of the cruise. Gratuities are provided for your cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maitre’d and other-behind-the-scenes crew members.

Internet/e-mail/fax

There is an Internet center on board; minute plans are available and there are approximately 20 terminals. Pricing will be posted on board. Guests may also bring their own laptops and purchase an Internet wireless plan on board. Connectivity on board is often very slow, and all guests and ships personnel are using the same feed. Letters and postcards may be mailed from the ship while in ports of call. You may buy stamps in port or purchase them through your onboard account.

Laundry and dry cleaning

Laundry, pressing and dry cleaning service is available onboard. There are also self-sevice laundry facilities on the ms Veendam. There is an additional fee for laundry and dry cleaning onboard.

Medical services

There is an onboard infirmary. Medical services entail an additional fee.

Money: Paying for things on board

Onboard, the currency is US Dollars. All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you create when you first check in. The ship will process credit card cash advances for a three percent fee at the front office. You can also obtain cash through your onboard account in the casino. Please check with the front office on board for further details.

Phone

Each cabin has a phone. There is an additional fee to use this phone; please check your final informational packet for details.

Smoking policy

We have designated smoking and non-smoking areas on board. The non-smoking areas include all public areas and the port (left) side of all outdoor areas. Smoking is permitted in your cabins, on the starboard (right) side of outside decks and starboard side of the Crow’s Nest.

Spa services

There is a spa onboard, and massages and other services are available for an additional fee.

Solo travelers

We will have a solos program onboard, including a solos dining area at dinner.

After your Trip

Transfers to the airport

For those going directly to the Vancouver airport, you can take a taxi from the port to the airport for approximately $45 Canadian dollars, take a shared limo for approximately $45-$55 Canadian dollars.

Ship Info:

Your Ship

The ms Veendam has a casual, comfortable atmosphere that will truly make it feel like your “home away from home”. The dining rooms have extensive sea vistas, there are wide teak decks for strolling, and spacious staterooms—many with private verandahs—for relaxing. At the heart of the ms Veendam, a spectacular glass sculpture climbs through the three-story atrium. Come aboard for a first-class trip through the Inside Passage!

Cruise: Black Sea

When: September 2^nd to 14^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Crystal

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Venice

Visits: Katakolon, Mykonos, Constanta, Odessa, Yalta, Sinop, Istanbul

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Venice to Istanbul, Serenity  sailing 9319 Crystal info.

Black Sea – outside from $5735, verandas from $7050

Detailed Itinerary:

Venice, Italy

Cruise: 9319

Arrival Date: September 2

Departure Time: Embark pm

Venice rests three miles off the coast of mainland Italy and is considered one of the world’s most enchanting cities. Known as the “Queen of the Adriatic,” it actually comprises more than 100 separate islands. Laced together by a string of 400 intricate bridges, Venice is legendary for its labyrinthine network of canals.

A whimsical stroll through the city can lead one to a hidden world of ornately decorated piazzas and shops. As you explore colorful marketplaces and busy town squares, marvel at a priceless legacy of Baroque architecture. Admire the richness of St. Mark’s Basilica and the lavishness of the Palazzo Ducale. Getting lost in Venice can be a truly delightful experience. The place of dreams, this romantic city will live long in your memory.

Cruising the Adriatic Sea

Cruise: 9319

Your Day at Sea
Enrich. Entertain. Escape.

Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish: pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at our state-of-the-art fitness center or Walk-on-Water along our 360^o Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills at our Computer University@Sea or learn about art, history and worldly destinations with our engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chiand yoga to PGA golfinstruction and paddle tennison full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of Nobu Matsuhisa, Piero Selvaggio and Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance club or our action-packed Crystal Casino. The choices are yours.

Katakolon, Greece

Cruise: 9319

Arrival Date: September 5

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

While the Katakolon’s main street is just a five-minute walk from the pier, you will probably want to venture farther out to see the ancient site of Olympia, the storied place where the OlympicGames originated in 776 BC. A look at the impressive monuments, including the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera and the famous stadium, along with a visit to the nearby Archaeological Museum, offers a fascinating introduction to the Games and ancient mythology.

Back in town, stroll the oceanfront walkway, relax over ouzo in an open-air café, or engage in a friendly round of haggling for jewelry and handcrafts, a modern-day sporting event that enjoys widespread popularity.

Mykonos, Greece

Cruise: 9319

Arrival Date: September 6

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Mykonos, a former 18th-century pirates’ bastion, is now a sophisticated and cosmopolitan island resort.

This quintessential Greek island offers a maze of winding streets, graceful windmills, inviting beaches, domed churches and whitewashed houses accented in blue. Dotting the waterfront are cafés, taverns and tempting shops.

Guests may spend the day exploring the island independently. Feel free to investigate its fine boutiques and pleasant, labyrinthine streets. For helpful hints or suggestions on things to do while you are ashore, please contact the onboard Shore Excursions staff.

Constanta, Romania

Cruise: 9319

Arrival Date: September 8

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

Boasting a beautiful location on the Black Sea and plentiful historic sights, Romania’s second-largest city is a first-rate destination. An enjoyable stroll through Old Town takes you past not only the city’s renowned Casino, but also the impressive mosque. Built in 1910, it features a tall minaret offering dramatic views over the city and the Black Sea. The mosque also houses Europe’s largest carpet, a work of art that was handcrafted by a single person, a task that took 17 years to complete.

A truly international town, Constanta also is home to a Catholic church, the Orthodox Church of St. Paul and Peter, and a Greek Orthodox Church, where church services are conducted in Greek.

Odessa, Ukraine

Cruise: 9319

Arrival Date: September 9

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

Odessa is barely two centuries old, yet it has a wealth of history. A summer retreat of the czars, this “Pearl of the Black Sea” also hosted Russia’s greatest artists, writers and musicians. Many historic opera houses, museums and ballet theaters remain, alongside the impressive onion-domed basilica and the broad Potemkin Steps.

Yalta, Ukraine

Cruise: 9319

Arrival Date: September 10

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

Built on a peninsula that juts far into the Black Sea, Yalta was a favorite vacation spot of the czars, whose palaces remain as lasting memorials. See the Vorontsov Palace, built by Buckingham Palace’s architect. Or visit the White Palace, scene of the Yalta Conference where Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin decided the fate of postwar Europe.

Sinop, Turkey

Cruise: 9319

Arrival Date: September 11

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Thanks to its location on the Black Sea, Sinop was once an important stop on a caravan route, bringing the city power and prosperity evidenced by the issuance of its own currency and establishment of colonies. Over the centuries, temples, mosques, a castle and a prison have been added to the cityscape, each standing testament to various cultural and empirical influences. The Castle was founded in 2,000 BC, with restorations and enlargements being made during Ottoman, Byzantine and Roman periods. Connected to the castle is the prison, with forbidding stone walls. At the Sinop Museum, visitors can spend a few leisurely hours surveying ancient treasures.

Istanbul, Turkey

Cruise: 9319

Arrival Date: September 13

Arrival Time: 9 am

For poets, Istanbul, next to Venice and Rome is the loveliest city in Europe and one of the most splendid in Asia. It is the only city in the world spread over two continents, separated by the Bosphorus.

Istanbul was founded by Greek scouts in 660 BC and later became capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. With its 3,000 years of history behind, it has always been the meeting point of East and West.

It is a city filled with wonders of architecture and monuments to the faiths that inspired them. Formerly known as Byzantium, then Constantinople, its mosques, minarets and museums span two continents where the Bosphorus divides Asia from Europe. This strategic position has assured Istanbul’s status as a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange during the centuries.

Must-see attractions include the dazzling treasury in Topkapi Palace and exquisite buildings of timeless beauty such as the Blue Mosque and Basilica of St. Sophia.

Even those who are not avid shoppers will be enticed by the colorful sights and sounds of the world’s largest bazaar.

Cruise: Canada and New England

When: October 8^th to 19^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Crystal

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Montreal

Visits: Quebec City, Halifax, Saint John, Bar Harbor, Boston, Newport, New York

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Oct 8 – 11 day: Montreal to New York, Symphony sailing 9223 Crystal info.

Canada & New England – outside from $4050, verandas from $5590

Detailed Itinerary:

Montréal, P.Q., Canada

Cruise: 9223

Arrival Date: October 8

Departure Time: Embark pm

Cosmopolitan Montréal is Canada’s second-largest city and cultural capital. It is the third-largest French-speaking city in the world and has been dubbed the “Paris of the North.” Cultural contrasts are widespread as, although Montréal is predominantly French in culture, ethnic diversity abounds. This is a city of great charm, as you’ll discover in its sympathetic blend of the old and the new, from the Place d’Armes and its beautiful 18th-century buildings to the ultra-modern downtown area.

Montréal received international acclaim when it hosted Expo `67 and the 1976 Summer Olympic Games. Its exuberant vitality promises to keep it at the forefront of great world cities well into this century and beyond.

Québec City, P.Q., Canada

Cruise: 9223

Arrival Date: October 10

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 12 m

Québec stands proudly beside the majestic St. Lawrence River, resembling no other city in the world. Its cuisine, language and traditions combine to make this a unique cradle of French civilization in North America.

Within fortress walls high atop Cap Diamant, the old city is a sheer delight for lovers of history. Here, magnificent churches, cobbled streets, fragrant gardens and chic boutiques all vie for your attention.

Just outside the city, you’ll discover a veritable riot of fall colors, North America’s largest shrine, picturesque villages and an impressive waterfall.

At the end of the day, there is the tempting opportunity to discover the French art of good cooking at some of North America’s finest restaurants.

Cruising the St. Lawrence River &

Gulf of St. Lawrence

Cruise: 9223

Your Day at Sea
Enrich. Entertain. Escape.

Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish: pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at our state-of-the-art fitness center or Walk-on-Water along our 360^o Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills at our Computer University@Sea or learn about art, history and worldly destinations with our engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chi and yoga to PGA golf instruction and paddle tennis on full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of Nobu Matsuhisa, Piero Selvaggio and Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance club or our action-packed Crystal Casino. The choices are yours.

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

Cruise: 9223

Arrival Date: October 13

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 4:45 pm

As Crystal Symphony moors alongside the pier, bagpipers and the Town Crier bid a warm welcome to Halifax, capital of Nova Scotia, the most Scottish of all Canada’s great cities.

You will fall in love with Halifax’s architectural blend of old and new. The mighty 150-year old Citadel fortress stands sentinel over the thriving downtown area where modern office and hotel blocks nestle alongside the exquisitely-restored Historic Properties waterfront shopping area.

Shoppers will delight in the tempting array of buys from colorful Scottish tartans to pewter and superb hand-knit woolens.

Nova Scotians claim they have the freshest air and warmest smiles in Canada. After your visit, we’re sure you will agree.

Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

Cruise: 9223

Arrival Date: October 14

Arrival Time: 9 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

To say that Saint John is historic is a bit of an understatement. After all, Saint John is host to the oldest continuing farmers’ market in Canada (the Old City Market), home to the oldest continuing museum in the country (the New Brunswick Museum), and is itself the oldest incorporated city in Canada.

Experience Saint John’s fascinating past with a stop to see Carleton Martello Tower, a structure constructed as a watchtower for the War of 1812. Not actually completed until 1815, the tower was never utilized for the 1812 skirmish, but did function as a command post during World War II. Today it is a Canadian National Historic Site. Also glimpse Canada’s Loyalist history with a walk along the Loyalist Trail and a visit to the 1817 Loyalist House. One of the oldest buildings in Saint John, it appears much as it did in the early 19th century and is another of Canada’s designated National Historic Sites.

Bar Harbor, Maine, USA

Cruise: 9223

Arrival Date: October 15

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Cradled off the craggy coast of Maine lies Mount Desert Island and the charming seaport town of Bar Harbor.

Earlier last century, when it was the summer retreat of millionaires, it boasted magnificent estate homes, or “cottages,” many of which were completely destroyed by the fire of 1947.

However, some things never change. The priceless asset of the island’s scenic beauty remains untouched by time. Vistas of emerald-green forests and rugged valleys from the superb vantage point of Mount Cadillac remain just as spectacular, and the rugged shoreline scenery is still as awe inspiring as it

ever was.

The choice is yours. Take a scenic drive through some of Maine’s most spectacular scenery or stroll along the picturesque main street with its inviting shops and galleries. Perhaps you will choose to sample some of North America’s most delectable seafood at an authentic lobster bake, or cruise the fascinating coastal area.

Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Cruise: 9223

Arrival Date: October 16

Arrival Time: 8 am

Relive nearly four hundred years of history as you explore myriad sights of Boston, a city that exudes pride in its past and future.

Superb shopping abounds and sightseeing attractions are legendary. You’ll revel in exploring the Freedom Trail, the Old North Church and the Boston Common. A few miles away lie Lexington and Concord where the momentous events that began in 1775 come alive.

Boston has not been content to rest on the laurels of its glorious past. Progress is everywhere. Glazed high-rises soar skyward and the colorful waterfront area has been artfully renovated.

Your visit to this thriving metropolis is bound to impress.

Newport, Rhode Island, USA

Cruise: 9223

Arrival Date: October 18

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Newport, Rhode Island, is a stylish, world-famous yachting center with a long tradition of elegance. For almost a century and a half, it was the home of the America’s Cup yachting races.

The colonial sections of Newport boast many authentic historic buildings, some dating back to the 1600s. However, most impressive of all, are the opulent mansions built at the turn of this century by industrial tycoons along Ocean Drive and Bellevue Avenue. Fashioned after the palaces of Europe their interiors boast lavish use of marble, alabaster, gilt, mosaics and stained glass complemented by magnificent furnishings and fine tapestries.

You’ll be spellbound listening to the legends and stories of families such as the Morgans, Astors, Fishers and Vanderbilts, all of whom had “cottages” here.

Although Rhode Island is America’s smallest state, it has a legacy of history and tradition that far outweighs it size.

New York City, New York, USA

Cruise: 9223

Arrival Date: October 19

Arrival Time: 8 am

Welcome to one of the world’s most famous and exciting cities. Broadway, Times Square, the Empire State Building and Central Park are just some of the celebrated spectacles this bustling city has to offer.

Giovanni da Verrazano was the first European to glimpse Manhattan Island in 1542, but the area was not explored until Henry Hudson arrived in 1609. It is said that Peter Minuit bought the entire island from Native Americans for $24 worth of beads and trinkets in 1629 – the biggest real estate bargain in history.

In 1664 the Dutch surrendered to a British Fleet, and the town was renamed New York in honor of the Duke of York. George Washington was inaugurated here in 1789, and for a time, New York served as the country’s capital. Since then, the city has grown spectacularly and has become one of the most exciting and electrifying cities in the country – not to mention one of the most rewarding to visit and explore.

Cruise: Caribbean and Amazon

When: November 22^nd to December 5^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Crystal

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Miami, Florida

Visits: Grand Turk, Antigua, Barbados, Devil’s Island, Alter do Chao, Parintins, Manaus

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Detailed Itinerary:

Miami, Florida, USA

Cruise: 9227

Arrival Date: November 22

Departure Time: 9 pm

It has the largest city population in Florida, is the third most visited American city among international travelers and showcases an Art Deco Historic District encompassing one of the largest neighborhoods entered on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Miami certainly boasts its share of impressive characteristics, even before adding to the list its gorgeous beaches, spirited Cuban population and ritzy enclaves of Coral Gables and Coconut Grove.

Miami wasn’t always the glamorous and energetic city you see today. Until the late 1800s, it was mostly swamp, disconnected from the rest of the country thanks to its position on the edge of the continent and lack of the essential link of the day: a railroad. All that changed in 1896, when the railroad in northern Florida was extended to the latent tropical paradise of the south.

The rest, as they say, is history, as Miami has since seen recurrent booms fueled by surges of immigration, perennially good weather and an insouciant refusal to do anything halfway. Admire the full glory of Miami Beach with a stroll along South Beach’s famous Ocean Boulevard, where splendidly restored art deco buildings compete with fashion models and sun worshipers for attention. For a taste of Cuban cuisine and culture, visit Little Havana on the mainland (Miami Beach is separate both in its municipality and its geography: it sits on a barrier island four miles off the coast, and is reached by a causeway). Also outside mainland Miami are the acres of rare tropical plants nurtured to their fragrant and beautiful best in Fairchild Tropical Gardens. The aforementioned slice of heaven known as Coral Gables lies to the southwest. A gem of 1920s city planning, the city unfurls impressive boulevards and features the alluring Venetian Pool, where waterfalls and underwater caves offer the chance for a uniquely refreshing dip.

Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Cruise: 9227

Your Day at Sea, Enrich. Entertain. Escape.

Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish: pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at our state-of-the-art fitness center or Walk-on-Water along our 360^o Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills at our Computer University@Seaor learn about art, history and worldly destinations with our engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chiand yoga to PGA golf instruction and paddle tennis on full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of Nobu Matsuhisa, Piero Selvaggioand Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance club or our action-packed Crystal Casino. The choices are yours.

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos

Cruise: 9227

Arrival Date: November 24

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Although there are numerous spots on land that invite relaxation and exploration, the Turks and Caicos are really all about the water. More specifically, they’re all about what’s beneath the water. These islands have some of the best diving and snorkeling anywhere, courtesy of one of the world’s largest network of coral reefs, easily accessible off the islands’ shores. One reef, aptly called the Wall, is particularly spectacular; it drops 7,000 feet-straight down. Between the shore and the reef, the water is only waist deep, providing a perfect place for beginning snorkelers to get their feet wet.

Antigua/St. John’s, West Indies

Cruise: 9227

Arrival Date: November 26

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Antigua’s sunny climate and easy-going Caribbean ways are alluring attractions for visitors. It boasts 365 superb white beaches and is home to a beautiful National Park that stretches for ten square miles. Found within this park are the famous English Harbor and Nelson’s Dockyard. Horatio Nelson was posted here early in his career and the harbor was the headquarters for the British fleet during the 18th century. Although Antigua achieved its independence in 1981, it continues to bear the unmistakable imprint of centuries of British rule.

Barbados/Bridgetown, West Indies

Cruise: 9227

Arrival Date: November 27

Arrival Time: 9 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Barbados offers sun-drenched beaches, clear blue-green waters and cool trade winds. Inland are lovingly preserved plantation houses, lush sugar cane fields and fragrant gardens. This charming former British colony is one of the most stable independent Caribbean nations. Reminders of British rule abound, from cricket fields to Lord Nelson’s statue and the original Trafalgar Square.

Don’t miss Bridgetown’s bustling Careenage and the shops on Broad Street, which offer exceptional deals on luxury imports from Britain.

Devil’s Island, French Guiana

Cruise: 9227

Arrival Date: November 29

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 1 pm

Devil’s Island (Ile du Diable or Les Iles de Salut, the Islands of Salvation), is one of the three “Safety Islands” off the northern coast of French Guiana; the others are Royale (the largest) and St. Joseph. The “desolate” Devil’s Island became a penal colony of the French government in the late 1800s; it was abolished in 1938.Tides permitting, a visit to Devil’s Island may be possible. Here you can view 13 cottages once used for political prisoners, such as Alfred Dreyfus, the Jewish French officer convicted of treason and banished here from 1895 to 1906, when his innocence was finally proven.

Alter do Chão, Brazil

Cruise: 9227

Arrival Date: December 2

Arrival Time: 10 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

The beach resort of Alter do Chão along the Amazon River is on a beautiful bay flanked by two hills, one of which resembles the shape of a church altar, which gives the place its name. The other cone-shaped hill is easily climbable (after hiking through a thick forest), offering a spectacular view of the meeting of the Amazon and Tapajós Rivers.

The bay is lined with white sand beaches on the deep blue Tapajós River; the beaches feature rows of simple stalls that sell fried fish and cold beer. The primary sight in Alter do Chão is the Center for the Preservation of Indian Art, a spectacular collection of Amazon Indian artifacts, housed in one of the village’s largest buildings.

Parintins, Brazil

Cruise: 9227

Arrival Date: December 3

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

This small village located on Tupinambarana Island is situated in the largest river archipelago of the mid-Amazon. This two-century old village is rich in Indian culture, as celebrated with an annual “Boi Bumba” festival, an event that has been taking place in the Parintins for over 80 years, and that is a ritual of magic, mystery, passion and faith. Enjoy the exotic appeal of the Amazon via this fascinating area.

Manaus, Brazil

Cruise: 9227

Arrival Date: December 5

Arrival Time: Disembark am

The capital of the State of Amazonas, the belle époque splendor of Manaus is still evident in the graceful mansions and the Teatro Amazonas opera house. This city, resting on the Rio Negro, was created by the rubber boom of the mid-19th-century, when steam navigation opened up the Amazon to entrepreneurs and the social elite. Today, stroll down the Parisian-styled boulevards and Italian piazzas, or watch the fisherman at Municipal Market unload their catch of the day on the river’s edge.

Other Info:

Cruise 9227 – Amazon Thanksgiving Adventure aboard Crystal Symphony

Theme: Crystal Wine & Food Festival

Captain – Egil Giske

Hotel Director – Josef Matt

Cruise Director – Scott Peterson

Maître D’ – TBA

Crystal Society Host/ess – Kellie Hachten

Cruise Sales Consultant – Paula Jean Pfitzer

Headline Entertainers – Lewis Dixon, Vocalist – Rustem Hayroudinoff, Classical Pianist – Clare Langan, Flautist – Penny Mathisen, Vocalist – Mark Merchant, Ventriloquist – Kenny Smiles, Comedian

Lounge Pianists – David Williams, Avenue Saloon – Bruce Johnson, Crystal Cove

Production Shows – Featuring the Crystal Ensemble of Singers and Dancers: Cole!, Curtain Call, Million Dollar Musicals, Route 66, The Envelope Please (Please note: not all shows are performed on all cruises).

Crystal Visions Enrichment Program

Destination Lecturer – TBA

Special Interest Lecturer: Hollywood

Jim Jimirro (Los Angeles, CA) 
Creator and founding president of The Disney Channel and Walt Disney Home Video.

Special Interest Lecturer: World Affairs

Charles Peña (Washington, DC) 
A defense policy expert, Charles Peña is a senior fellow with the Independent Institute, Coalition for a Realistic Foreign Policy, and George Washington University Homeland Security Policy Institute, and an adviser on the Straus Military Reform Project. The author of Winning the Un-War: A New Strategy for the War on Terrorism, he has appeared on MSNBC, Fox News, and CNN and written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and the Financial Times.

Special Interest Lecturer –

Rex Ziak (Naselle, WA) 
Rex Ziak is an outstanding public speaker with many great stories to tell and a uniquely engaging speaking style that never fails to rivet his audiences. His adventurous mind has led him into a wide array of ventures, including his study of endangered indigenous cultures, his successful preservation of ancient rainforest, and his work as an Emmy-winning documentary cinematographer. Most recently, his research into the Lewis and Clark expedition revealed overlooked sites of such importance that the federal government created a new National Park to commemorate them.

*Theme Presentations: Wine & Food

Festival

Guest Chef –

André Rochat 
André is Las Vegas’ original celebrity chef. At five years old he began learning about food from the family charcuterie in France, apprenticed at Leon de Lyon, cooked at prestigious East Coast hotels including Washington’s Mayflower, and opened the first French boulangerie in Vegas in 1973: Savoy French Bakery. Since then, André has opened renowned French gourmet restaurant, André’s, in Vegas, a second André’s at the Monte Carlo, and Alizé on the top of the Palms in Dubai. André is President of the Gastronomy Management Group, and maintains one of the most extensive and exclusive collections of wine, armagnacs, cognacs, vintage ports and spirits in the world.

Guest Chef –

Claude Troisgros 
Owner of 3 restaurants in Rio: Olympe, 66 Bistro, and CT Brasserie, and CT in New York City. Claude has the TV show in Brazil named Menu Confiança and is the grandson of renowned French chef Jean Baptiste Troisgros, who invented nouvelle cuisine in the 1970s.

Wine Expert –

Kris Margerum 
Head sommelier, Auberge du Soleil, and developer of wine lists for a number of other Auberge Resorts’ properties. His wine list has been awarded Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for the past five years. Kris also created the Napa Valley Sommelier Society.

Modern American Mixologist –

Tony Abou-Ganim 
Currently featured on the ‘Iron Chef America’ competition with Mario Batali, Battle Mango. Tony created the DVD, Modern Mixology: Making Great Cocktails at Home. He was on the Fine Living Network program Raising the Bar: America’s Best Bar Chefs. He was hand-picked by Steve Wynn to create the cocktail program at his Bellagio Resort. Tony is National Ambassador of the US Bartenders Guild; Associate Member of the Museum of the American Cocktail; and operates his own beverage consulting firm specializing in bar staff training, product education and cocktail development.

The Crystal Cruises Creative Learning Institute

Our innovative series of complimentary interactive classes created to enhance our guests quality of life in the areas of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology, Lifestyle, Wellness and Wine & Food. Guests receive a certificate of completion at the end of the curriculum.

Arts & Entertainment –

Passport To Music presented by Yamaha and Crystal Cruises: Instructor Sophia Greenberg (Scottsdale, AZ) teaches an innovative and fun course as an introduction to keyboard playing for adults. Tradition and technology meet in harmony to create this progressive piano-style program. With an emphasis on hands-on learning using Yamaha’s exciting portable keyboards supported by the Clavinova digital piano, guests learn nearly a dozen songs during the cruise. An overview of general musical skills, including listening skills and note reading is included, as well as fun group activities such as music trivia and name that song. Passport To Music is designed for those with little or no previous keyboard experience.

Odyssey Art At Sea Instructor – Sonia Grineva (New York, NY)

Computer University@Sea –

Senior Attendant TBA plus Instructor Rick Berg (Cedar Crest, NM). Our popular Computer University@Sea program: expanded curriculum of complimentary lectures and classes on a variety of computer-related topics, plus e-mail instruction in our computer center, equipped with 25 state-of-the-art workstations, all equipped for e-mail and Internet access (fees apply).

Lifestyle –

Berlitz Foreign Language Instruction: Portuguese classes, focusing on basic vocabulary and phrases to help guests communicate in foreign countries, are taught by certified Berlitz Language instructor TBA.

Guest Master Photographer –

John Parris 
John Parris’ passion for photography becomes clear in the images he captures with his portraiture commissions. His portraits range from traditional to informal to contemporary, but most importantly they capture the character of the individual or couple. Through his creativity and professional excellence, John’s portraits are appreciated by all who have commissioned him. John was named the Scottish Wedding Photographer of the Year, Scottish Portrait Photographer of the Year, British Fashion Photographer of the Year and has also won countless awards of Merit & Excellence. A Fellow of The British Institute of Professional Photography and of the Master Photographers Association, John is the only professional photographer in Scotland to hold a portrait fellowship and is a UK National Qualifications Judge. John will be setting up reservations to have exclusive portrait sessions with guests. Selected images from these portrait sessions will be presented in a hand-crafted, custom-bound album. Guests may also make pre-reservations by emailing Paragon Pixels in advance of their cruise at info@paragonpixels.com.

Wellness –

Crystal Cruises’ exclusive Walk-on-Water program features The WALKVEST® Training System which revolutionizes walking simply by adding resistance (added weight) to your walk.

Golf Teaching Professional –

TBA Conducts our exclusive program featuring TaylorMade, the best performance golf company in the world and #1 driver in golf.

ACBL Bridge Instructors – Cassandra Mani (Reno, NV) and Michael Nistler (Petaluma, CA) Beginner and intermediate bridge classes, and afternoon games.

Catholic Clergy – TBA

Dance Team/Instructors – Mark Sasnovski and Lizl Jooste (Houston, TX) 
Daily dance classes on sea days, and private lessons by appointment.

Ambassador Hosts – Luke Daniel (University Place, WA) 
Ray Ghannad (Wilmington, NC) 
Gene Keesy (Greenville, OH) 
Ted Pobud (Apple Valley, CA)

Cruise: Iberian Peninsula

When: November 1^st to 12^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Crystal Gay Group

Type: All-Gay

Departs: Barcelona

Visits: Malaga, Cadiz, Casablanca, Arrecife, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Funchal, Lisbon

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Detailed Itinerary:

Barcelona, Spain

Cruise: 9324

Arrival Date: November 1^st

Departure Time: Embark pm

Barcelona, capital of Catalonia, is a celebration of history and heir to Greek, Phoenician, Roman, Carthaginian, Gothic and Arab cultural legacies. Since it is nearly as close to Rome, Geneva and Munich as it is to Madrid, Barcelona has long been the Spanish link to Western Europe. It was the home of Picasso, Miró, Dali, Casals and Gaudí and has been described as a Mediterranean Manhattan, a cosmopolitan experimental center for political ideas and artistic movements. In addition to its abundance of artistic and architectural treasures, Barcelona serves as the gateway to one of the world’s most impressive mountainside enclaves at Montserrat.

Discover the secret legends of the Black Virgin and the alluring chants of monastic life high atop the Catalonian plains. Barcelona’s ancient city walls and the narrow crooked streets of the town’s old section are laid out for your discovery. You will find that Barcelona has something for everybody.

Cruising the Mediterranean Sea

Cruise: 9324

Your Day at Sea, Enrich. Entertain. Escape.

Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish: pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at our state-of-the-art fitness centeror Walk-on-Water along our 360^o Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills at our Computer University@Seaor learn about art, history and worldly destinations with our engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chiand yoga to PGA golfinstruction and paddle tennison full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of Nobu Matsuhisa, Piero Selvaggioand Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance clubor our action-packed Crystal Casino. The choices are yours.

Málaga, Spain

Cruise: 9324

Arrival Date: November 4^th

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

Prosperous Málaga lies along the beautiful Costa del Sol, approximately 70 miles inside the Strait of Gibraltar. Its wealth of historical sites includes a 16th-century cathedral and the Moorish Alcazaba Fortress. This modern-looking provincial capital was founded by the Phoenicians and later became culturally and economically important as the port of Granada. Sightseeing opportunities abound from Málaga. The charming mountain village of Mijas and the impressive Alhambra are attractions you won’t want to miss.

Cádiz/Seville, Spain

Cruise: 9324

Arrival Date: November 5

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 9 pm

On a low-lying peninsula extending into the crescent-shaped bay stands 3,000-year-old Cádiz, the Western world’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Neat houses huddle within high walls, while the surrounding countryside is lush with olive groves.

The Puertas de Tierra divides the city in two. Modern Cádiz lies on the isthmus, while the romantic, historical section is located on the other side. The old districts of El Pópulo and Santa Maria, adorned with narrow streets and ancient stone walls, are in sharp contrast to the parks, gardens, wide roads and plazas of the bustling commercial area.

Casablanca, Morocco

Cruise: 9324

Arrival Date: November 6

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

Centuries-old Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and principal port, lies on the Atlantic coast of North Africa. Awaiting your discovery is a timeless blend of Arabic culture and French sophistication, as seen by the imposing administrative buildings that recall years of colonial influence. Although the spirits of Bergman and Bogart still linger in the narrow alleyways of the old Medina, this gleaming white city has a firm grasp on the 21st century. Today, it encompasses broad palm-lined boulevards, attractive public parks and soaring high-rises. Bargain-filled souks are reminders of mysterious Africa and shopping aficionados will delight in scouring narrow alleyways for great buys in leatherwork, pottery, carved woodwork and Moroccan rugs.

Canary Islands/Arrecife, Spain

Cruise: 9324

Arrival Date: November 8

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Arrecife, the capital of the island of Lanzarote, is a modern port city, with a pleasant sense of hustle and bustle, yet also a sense of its seafaring past. Its picturesque hub is centered around El Charco, or “the puddle,” and its seafront boasts the Gran Hotel, a symbol of Arrecife’s commitment to a bright and prosperous role in tourism. For years, the building was a mere shell, until developers snatched it up for a complete overhaul. Now a 5-star property, the Gran Hotel invites visitors to stroll through its gardens and enjoy its waterfront location. Two other landmarks are emblematic of Arrecife: Castillo San Gabriel and Castillo San Jose. Dating from 1590 and 1730 respectively, both stand guard over the harbor and once defended the island against pirates.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Cruise: 9324

Arrival Date: November 9

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

The largest and most populated island of the seven which make up the Canary Archipelago, Tenerife lies northwest of the African continent. Its shape is triangular and was formed as a result of the massive volcanic eruptions, which once dominated the area. The island’s original economy was based on agriculture, including the harvesting of bananas, potatoes and tomatoes. However, new industrial products and activities, such as oil, tobacco and paper mills, have slowly emerged. Nonetheless, tourism remains the main industry of Tenerife.

Madeira/Funchal, Portugal

Cruise: 9324

Arrival Date: November 10

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

The sub-tropical island of Madeira, often called the “Garden of the Atlantic,” was the favored retreat of Sir Winston Churchill. This blissful island is a wonderland of rugged mountains, colorful flowers and ornate architecture. Once ashore, enjoy browsing through local shops that boast an array of intricate embroidery, vibrant tapestries and detailed wickerwork. Feel free to sample the famed Madeira wine while relaxing in one of the island’s numerous cafés.

Lisbon, Portugal

Cruise: 9324

Arrival Date: November 12

Arrival Time: 6 am

Cosmopolitan Lisbon was the center of the world’s last great colonial empire. Today the city nostalgically reveres its imperial past while adapting to Portugal’s role as a member of the European Economic Community. Although located on the Atlantic coast, Lisbon has the soul of a Mediterranean city with Moorish castles, pastel and white buildings, orange-tiled roofs and luminous blue skies. Set amid the hills and valleys of the northern shore of the River Tagus, it is one of the loveliest capitals in the world.

Travel Info:

Cruise 9324 – Iberian Focus aboard Crystal Serenity

Theme: Photography

Captain – TBA

Hotel Director – TBA

Cruise Director – Rick Spath

Maître D’ – Mario Gallo

Crystal Society Host/ess – Jane Self

Cruise Sales Consultant – Paula Jean Pfitzer

Headline Entertainers – Jon Courtenay, Variety Comedian- Petrina Johnson, Vocalist/Impressionist – Doug Montgomery, Classical Pianist – Marc Paul, Mindreader – Kenny Smiles, Comedian

Lounge Pianists – Colin Salter, Avenue Saloon, John Mentis, Crystal Cove

Production Shows – Featuring the Crystal Ensemble of Singers and Dancers – Curtain Call, Gotta Dance, Million Dollar Musicals, My Favorite Things, Standing Room Only (Please note: not all shows are performed on all cruises).

Crystal Visions Enrichment Program:

Destination Lecturer – Pepper W. Trail

Special Interest Lecturer – TBA

*Theme Presentations: Photography

Theme Lecturer – Theresa Airey (Monkton, MD)

Theresa Airey, international photographer and author of Creative Photo Printmaking, Creative Digital Printmaking, Digital Photo Art, Beginner’s Guide to Digital Photo Art, Bermuda: The Quiet Years and Bermuda Then and Now has shown her work extensively with separate exhibitions in seventeen of the 50 U.S. states. Abroad, she has held major shows in Spain, Bermuda, the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Her work is in several permanent collections including the prestigious Pretenkabinet of the Rijksuniversiteit in Leiden, Holland, The Polaroid Collection of Boston, The Fuji Collection (an International traveling exhibit), and the Altos De Chavon Center in Santo Domingo. Her work has been featured at the Bermuda National Gallery in the Biennial for two years: 2007 and 2008. Theresa’s work has been published in numerous Art and Photography Magazines. She was one of six international photographers featured in The Yearbook of 1999. Theresa is the principle photographer of Gentleman, Joe Lee, a book written by Ron Whitten, Senior Editor of Golf Digest. This book features the life of golf course architect Joe Lee. Her work is also featured in numerous Photography books. Recently her work featured in a new book published by Delmar Learning entitled, Photography in the 21st Century, of which she also has the cover image.

Theresa holds a MFA in Photography and Fine Art and has instructed Photography at the University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, Towson State University and at the Maryland Institute, College of Art. She teaches private workshops in her studio and hosts workshops each year around the globe. Theresa gives regular seminars for Photo Plus East and for numerous Conferences of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). She currently sits on the advisory board for Freestyle Photographic Suppliers.

She is best known for her skill in restoration, infrared photography and “crossing the boundaries” between traditional printmaking, painting, drawing, photography and digital art by using the computer as a tool to begin to integrate, orchestrate, and create new images.

Guest Master Photographer – Simon John

A successful portrait photographer for over 25 years, Simon John’s modern images complements his subject’s individuality and taste. Simon, a fellow of the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP), received this honor at a prestigious function at the House of Commons, Westminster, England. He is also a fellow of the Master Photographers Association (MPA) and actively promotes the art of portraiture. The BIPP and MPA selected Simon to be the Chairman of Judges for the 2008 British Professional Photography Awards. He is part of a select group of professional photographers who have won 10 Kodak Gold awards for excellence in portraiture. In addition, he won the prestigious UK’s Face 2000 millennium portrait competition. Simon’s creativity produces exciting portraits that capture your personality with style, and will most certainly become one of your most treasured possessions. Simon will be setting up reservations to have exclusive portrait sessions with guests. Selected images from these portrait sessions will be presented in a hand-crafted, custom-bound album. Guests may also make pre-reservations by emailing Paragon Pixels in advance of their cruise at info@paragonpixels.com.

The Crystal Cruises Creative Learning Institute –

Our innovative series of complimentary interactive classes created to enhance our guests quality of life in the areas of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology, Lifestyle, Wellness and Wine & Food. Guests receive a certificate of completion at the end of the curriculum.

Arts & Entertainment –

Passport To Music presented by Yamaha and Crystal Cruises: Instructor Shana Kirk (Denver, CO) teaches an innovative and fun course as an introduction to keyboard playing for adults. Tradition and technology meet in harmony to create this progressive piano-style program. With an emphasis on hands-on learning using Yamaha’s exciting portable keyboards supported by the Clavinova digital piano, guests learn nearly a dozen songs during the cruise. An overview of general musical skills, including listening skills and note reading is included, as well as fun group activities such as music trivia and name that song. Passport To Music is designed for those with little or no previous keyboard experience.

Odyssey Art At Sea Instructor – Roberta Socoloff (Briarcliff Manor, NY)

Computer University@Sea –

Senior Attendant TBA plus Instructors Judy Koehler and Mike Newell (Vero Beach, FL). Our popular Computer University@Sea program: expanded curriculum of complimentary lectures and classes on a variety of computer-related topics, plus e-mail instruction in our computer center, equipped with 25 state-of-the-art workstations, all equipped for e-mail and Internet access (fees apply).

Lifestyle –

Berlitz Foreign Language Instruction: Spanish classes, focusing on basic vocabulary and phrases to help guests communicate in foreign countries, are taught by certified Berlitz Language instructor TBA.

Wellness –

Crystal Cruises’ exclusive Walk-on-Water program features The WALKVEST® Training System which revolutionizes walking simply by adding resistance (added weight) to your walk.

PGA Golf Teaching Professional – John Clark (Carlsbad, CA)

John Clark conducts our exclusive program featuring Taylor Made, the best performance golf company in the world and #1 driver in golf. John has over 35 years experience in the Golf business and became a PGA member in July, 1972. He served his Apprenticeship under the late, Tony Novitsky, at Columbine Country Club, Littleton, Colorado. Columbine was the Host Club for the 1968 PGA Championship. John is a life member and a Quarter Century member of the PGA of America. John has held positions as an Assistant Golf Professional, Head Professional, Director of Golf and General Manager at Private Country Clubs and a Sheraton Resort. He is currently a PGA Instructor at the SDGA, San Diego Campus. The other SDGA Campus’s are located in Phoenix, Myrtle Beach and Orlando. Also, John is an Independent PGA Golf Instructor at the Carlsbad Golf Center, Carlsbad, California, recently rated in the Best 100 Golf Shops by Golf World for 2008.

ACBL Bridge Instructors – Harold and DavidaSchachter (Lakewood, NJ) Beginner and intermediate bridge classes, and afternoon games.

Catholic Clergy – TBA

Dance Team/Instructors – Curtis Collins (Los Angeles, CA) Daily dance classes on sea days, and private lessons by appointment.

Ambassador Hosts – Al Albero (San Francisco, CA), Wayne Hodgson (Victoria, Canada), Emery Lendvay (Madison, OH), Steve Ong (Hayward, CA)

Featured Trunk Show –

Rhonda Faber Green Designs, meet the designer in person. Rhonda is known for her creative Filigreen™ and Diamondot™ collections. Rhonda’s elegant, signature piece, the Filigreen™ Heart, has its own copyright. Her collections are sold in luxury fine jewelry stores world wide and have been featured in publications such as In Style and Town & Country. Celebrities love Rhonda’s designs. From ‘Oscar’s’ red carpet to many of today’s popular television shows, you will see her designs showing up everywhere.

Cruise: Splendid Scandinavia

When: June 19^th to 30^th, 2009

Company/Offered Through: Crystal Gay Group

Type: All-Gay

Departs: London, England

Visits: Oslo, Copenhagen, Visby, St.Petersburg, Helsinki, Stockholm

Basic Itinerary:

Pricing Info:

Detailed Itinerary:

London/Dover, England

Cruise: 9214

Arrival Date: June 19

Departure Time: 6 pm

For centuries, Dover has been a symbol of England’s royal fortitude. The port’s legendary White Cliffs have long been a welcomed landmark for seafaring travelers. The solid Dover Castle has faced invasions by Roman, French and even English troops.

London’s legendary sights, including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament Square, Whitehall and the fashionable West End, lie just 80 miles from historic Dover.

Cruising the North Sea

Cruise: 9214

Your Day at Sea, Enrich. Entertain. Escape.

Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish:  pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at our state-of-the-art fitness centeror Walk-on-Water along our 360^o Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills at our Computer University@Sea or learn about art, history and worldly destinations with our engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chiand yoga to PGA golfinstruction and paddle tennison full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of NobuMatsuhisa, PieroSelvaggioand Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance clubor our action-packed Crystal Casino. The choices are yours.

Oslo, Norway

Cruise: 9214

Arrival Date: June 21

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

At the head of the Oslo fjord, which boasts many densely wooded islands, lies the impressive Norwegian capital of Oslo. This inspiring city is the site of many of Norway’s finest historic and cultural achievements.

Towering above our dock near the city center is the imposing Akershus Fortress and Castle. Graceful Viking ships, the Munch Art Museum and Gustav Vigeland’s awesome sculpture collection are among the rich treasury of attractions this city has to offer.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Cruise: 9214

Arrival Date: June 22

Arrival Time: 9 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Denmark, the world’s oldest kingdom, awaits your discovery on this visit to its lively capital, Copenhagen. Immerse yourself in the vitality of this delightful city as you explore its expansive parks and plazas, as well as its treasure trove of historic galleries and buildings. Discover its exquisite combination of Scandinavian elegance and European joie de vivre.

Visitors traveling outside the city enter an altogether different world; one where stately castles are found nestled in the gentle, emerald-green Danish countryside.

Visby, Sweden

Cruise: 9214

Arrival Date: June 23

Arrival Time: 9 am

Departure Time: 5 pm

Visby, the Jewel in the Crown on the Island of Gotland, is a medieval city entrenched in the lore of yesteryear. Called “The Durbovnik of the Baltic,” Visby is a historic highlight of Sweden, as it boasts an array of church ruins dating from the 12^th Century, the Great City Wall, that was originally built to protect the city, and a multitude of wooden and limestone homes erected in the Middle Ages.

A thoroughly alive and vital city, Visby’s ideal seaside location, nestled within the shadow of a steep cliff, is made unique by the remnants of its historical past.

Cruising the Baltic Sea

Cruise: 9214

Your Day at Sea, Enrich. Entertain. Escape.

Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish: pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at our state-of-the-art fitness centeror Walk-on-Water along our 360^o Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills at our Computer University@Sea or learn about art, history and worldly destinations with our engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chiand yoga to PGA golfinstruction and paddle tennison full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of Nobu Matsuhisa, Piero Selvaggioand Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance clubor our action-packed Crystal Casino. The choices are yours.

St. Petersburg, Russia

Cruise: 9214

Arrival Date: June 25

Arrival Time: 7 am

Formerly known as Leningrad, St. Petersburg is Russia’s second-largest city. It lies on a series of islands on the broad reaches of the mighty Neva River. The network of decorated bridges arching above the numerous waterways and canals are a visual delight.

Over 300 years ago, this area was merely marsh and forest land. Peter the Great’s vision was to build a window to the west, a city that would be a reflection of the great capitals of Europe. With the energy and drive so characteristic of this great man, he began the task. Magnificent Russian Versailles and Fontainbleau, with names like Pavlovsk and Peterhof, now encircle St. Petersburg; hence this comparatively young city has become ageless.

Helsinki, Finland

Cruise: 9214

Arrival Date: June 28

Arrival Time: 8 am

Departure Time: 6 pm

A heritage spanning over 450 years awaits you as you step ashore in Helsinki, “City of the Sea.” Spurred on by the inspiration of Carl Ludvig Engel, a native of Berlin who had worked earlier in Tallinn and St. Petersburg, Helsinki has produced some of the world’s finest architects. Today, the legacy of their splendid work is seen everywhere. Nonetheless, nature has not been subdued, as leafy parks and picturesque bays continue to exert their timeless influence.

A political and economic hub, this city is also a cultural center boasting 20 theatres, the National Opera, numerous museums and art galleries.

Stockholm, Sweden

Cruise: 9214

Arrival Date: June 30

Arrival Time: Disembark am

Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, which sprawls over 14 islands, is often called the “Beauty on Water.” Resting amid wooded hills, it is a city surrounded by water, firmly linked by over 50 bridges. Originally founded as a fortress in the 12th century, the earliest mention of Stockholm as a city was in the year 1252.

By 1850, the city had less than 100,000 inhabitants. Today it is one of Europe’s most prosperous cities with a population of over a million.

Travel Info:

Cruise 9214 – Splendid Scandinavia aboard Crystal Symphony

Theme: Tennis

Captain–EgilGiske

Hotel Director – Josef Matt

Cruise Director – Scott Peterson

Maître D’ – RemiSzutkiewicz

Crystal Society Host/ess – Kellie Hachten

Cruise Sales Consultant – Paula Jean Pfitzer

Headline Entertainers – Marty Brill, Comedian – Mark Haslam, Magician – Veronica McSwiney, Classical Pianist – Mark O’Malley, Vocalist – Jacqui Scott, Vocalist

Lounge Pianists – David Williams, Avenue Saloon, Scott Mitchel, Crystal Cove

Production Shows –

Featuring the Crystal Ensemble of Singers and Dancers – Cole! , Curtain Call, Million Dollar Musicals, Route 66, The Envelope Please (Please note: not all shows are performed on all cruises).

Crystal Visions Enrichment Program

Destination Lecturer – Dr. Jay Wolff (Naples, FL)

Dr. Jay Wolff took his undergraduate and doctoral degrees at Georgetown University in Washington DC. A member of the faculty of Florida Gulf Coast University’s Renaissance Academy and elected a member of the British Royal Society of Health, he has published more than a hundred articles on history and culture in professional journals as well as American Heritage, Forbes, American Legacy, The Washington Post and The L.A. Times. He has been a commentator on The History Channel and is an enthusiastically received destination lecturer who brings history to life with stories of the people and events that changed the world.

Special Interest Lecturer: World Affairs – Tom DeFrank (Washington, DC)

One of Washington’s most respected President-watchers, Mr. DeFrank is an award-winning journalist and author who has covered the White House since the Nixon administration. ABC News calls him “impeccably sourced,” “well-connected” and “legendary,” and the American Journalism Review named him “one of the unsung heroes of Washington journalism.” He co-authored the memoirs of Secretary of State James Baker and has reported on the resignation of one President, the impeachment of a second, and was an eyewitness to two assassination attempts against a third. He was Newsweek’s White House correspondent for 25 years and is Washington bureau chief of the New York Daily News. Former President Gerald R. Ford said of him: “one of the finest journalists I have ever known. Everyone I know feels the same way: you are fair, trustworthy and professional.”

*Theme Presentations: Tennis – TBA

The Crystal Cruises Creative Learning Institute –

Our innovative series of complimentary interactive classes created to enhance our guests quality of life in the areas of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology, Lifestyle, Wellness and Wine & Food. Guests receive a certificate of completion at the end of the curriculum.

Arts & Entertainment –

Passport To Music presented by Yamaha and Crystal Cruises: Instructor Sue Lewis (Vista, CA) teaches an innovative and fun course as an introduction to keyboard playing for adults. Tradition and technology meet in harmony to create this progressive piano-style program. With an emphasis on hands-on learning using Yamaha’s exciting portable keyboards supported by the Clavinova digital piano, guests learn nearly a dozen songs during the cruise. An overview of general musical skills, including listening skills and note reading is included, as well as fun group activities such as music trivia and name that song. Passport To Music is designed for those with little or no previous keyboard experience.

Odyssey Art At Sea Instructor – Patricia Hutchinson (Tenerife, Canary Islands)

Computer University@Sea –

Senior Attendant TBA plus Instructors David and Kathy Ness (Bonita Springs, FL). Our popular Computer University@Sea program: expanded curriculum of complimentary lectures and classes on a variety of computer-related topics, plus e-mail instruction in our computer center, equipped with 25 state-of-the-art workstations, all equipped for e-mail and Internet access (fees apply).

Lifestyle –

Berlitz Foreign Language Instruction: Russian classes, focusing on basic vocabulary and phrases to help guests communicate in foreign countries, are taught by certified Berlitz Language instructor TBA.

Wellness –

Crystal Cruises’ exclusive Walk-on-Water program features The WALKVEST® Training System which revolutionizes walking simply by adding resistance (added weight) to your walk.

Golf Teaching Professional – TBA

Conducts our exclusive program featuring Taylor Made, the best performance golf company in the world and #1 driver in golf.

ACBL Bridge Instructors – Roseanne and Gerald Levinson (Marblehead, MA) Beginner and intermediate bridge classes, and afternoon games.

Catholic Clergy – TBA

Dance Team/Instructors –

Mark Sasnovski and Lizl Jooste (Houston, TX) Daily dance classes on sea days, and private lessons by appointment.

Ambassador Hosts –

Ray Ghannad (Wilmington, NC), Peter Grant (Cheam, Surry, UK), Ed Murmurian (Waterford, MI), Harold Torello (Hollywood, FL)

Stupid as it might sound, this is a valid question. There are other vacations to take – you could hit New York City and live it up for a few days, fly to Hawaii for a week, get married in Toronto, check out gay bars in Singapore or get it on with a gay friend from across the pond. So why a cruise then?

Number 10 – For The Gay Atmosphere

A gay cruise is full of fun (gay) activities, and there’s always something to do. However, there’s an intrinsic value associated with gay cruises, and it can be attributed to an unspoken understanding and care shared by all the people on the boat. We all understand where we’re coming from, the issues we’ve had to face and the day-to-day struggles we see. With that kind of bond already formed, you know good times are ahead!

Number 9 – To Feel The Acceptance of Straight People

Straight people never have to wonder if people are accepting of their relationship. They can just march right onto any cruise ship, make out, feel each other up, and all people will do is say “get a room!” Have you ever felt what it’d be like to not think what others are thinking? If they’re judging? A gay cruise is full of people like you, and a no-discrimination philosophy abounds. You can relax, lay back, and pretend the whole world’s gay, because, as far as you can see, it is!

Number 8 – To Show Off Your Summer Collection and Get a Tan

We’re gay, and we love to look our best! This is a great way to show off the body you’ve been working hard to get, along with great summer clothes, flip-flops, or however far you wanna take it (just a banana hammock). Plus, you get to work on your tan (or blacken your blackness, if you’re black) and look all exotic when you come back to the real world.

Number 7 – To Eat Nice Food and Not Cook

Why cook when you don’t have to? Sure, you could apply this philosophy at home, but then you’d be limited to MSG-laden takeout or cardboard microwavable “dinners.” No, a better idea is to just get on a boat, and have a team of chefs prepare gourmet food for you, and deliver that food to you anywhere on the boat. Yes, that is a better idea.

Number 6 – To Get Drunk and Do Stupid Things

Worried about that deadline? Recession eating into your profits? Clients not liking your designs? Just say, “I dunno. I was drunk, and I don’t remember a thing!” You can’t say that in your normal life, but you can on a boat!

Number 5 – For All The Fun and Funky Activities

Gay cruises are the most fun cruises in the world, seriously! They get awesome cruise boats that have all the cool stuff (shops, casinos, live theater, live entertainment, swimming pools, hot tubs, water slides etc.), but they have a ton of superb gay activities too!

Number 4 – To See an Exotic Part of the World

Tired of the flat North American landscape? Want to pretend you’re in Lost? Or maybe, you just wonder how the rest of the world lives? Cruising to a hot, spicy exotic destination is just the ticket. You’ll get to see a unique local culture, sample deliciously different cuisine, and surround yourself in an environment that is very different from your own. This is really great fun!

Number 3 – To Meet Gays, er… Guys

Yes, the fact is, a gay cruise is a great place to meet guys if you’re single. It’s also a great place to meet other gay couples. You’ll make temporary boyfriends, friends, and maybe even something better!

Number 2 – To Get It On

We’ve established that a gay cruise is a great place to meet guys. Duh. Thousands of gay guys, you. Rocket science, I know. But think about this… if you want to get it on, where better? Other people want to get it on. You want to get it on. You’re isolated on a boat, with nowhere to go.

Number 1 – To Get On a Boat With Other Guys, Get Away, and See What Happens

Really, the best reason to go on a gay cruise, is to just get away, and let nature or destiny (whatever you want to believe in) take its course. Once in a while, we all need to just let go completely, let our guard down (us gays more than anyone), and see where life takes us.

Don’t agree?  Discuss in our forums

Conjure up all the images you can of what you think an all-gay cruise is like, and just sorta put that on hold for a minute. Yes, all the gay butt-slapping, towel-whipping, wristband-wearing, speedo and banana hammock-donning buff guys with no chest hair and perfectly chiseled faces… put all that aside.

The first thing you will probably feel on an all-gay cruise is comfort. Not just creature comforts, but the comfort of knowing that there are so many other people like you out there. You’ll get to feel a little like straight people feel on a straight cruise! If you’ve ever been to a gay event, it might remind you of that. At the very least, it’ll be a comfortable, totally hassle-free vacation, and you’ll forget all about any discrimination you may have encountered in the past. It’ll be a perfect, almost dreamlike escape from your everyday life.

A gay cruise can be a great way to take a trip as a couple, or if you’re single, to meet people. Some boats cater more to couples, and some more to partygoing singles, but there is always something for everyone. Do your research beforehand (that’s why AllAboutGayTravel.com exists!) and you probably won’t be disappointed.

Gay cruises book the same cruise ships as mainstream lines, so you’ll get the same luxurious rooms, great food, big drinking and gambling, onboard activities… and then a lot more that are gay-oriented. Of course, no one can guarantee a romantic encounter, but given that you’ll be isolated on a luxurious boat around great scenery with other like-minded individuals, there’s more than a chance! Gay cruises are jam-packed with fun events for everyone, and you’ll probably make a few friends while on board.

Every line differs, but overall, there are more parties on gay cruises and they tend to go on a bit later. They also have theme parties and theme nights, and other funky entertainment (gay comedians, drag shows etc.). If you don’t like that, that’s ok. With hundred to thousands of people onboard, you’re likely to find others with the same tastes as you. We’re going to try and talk about some of the things that make each cruise unique in reviews and when discussing upcoming cruises.  We’re also going to look at how each travel destination is for the gay traveler.

A lot of people, maybe half to three-quarters, decorate their doors on gay cruises. It’s not necessary of course, but it’s all in the spirit of celebrating. People will decorate with everything from traditional decorations, to wild jungle motifs and even some kinky stuff, though you wouldn’t really want to take this too far. If you want to take part in this, you’ll need to bring your own supplies on board, and make sure nothing’s too permanent.

If you’re the sort of person who doesn’t like the out-there, extroverted, I’m-gay-and-you-know-it type activities, that doesn’t mean gay travel isn’t for you. Just like with straight cruises, there are party boats, there are uber-luxury high-class boats, and there are boats in the middle. As with everything else, know what you’re getting into, make an informed decision, then have no regrets!

Discuss in our forums