From the Deck Chair partners with Ralph Grizzle's Avid Cruiser

 From the Deck Chair author Aaron Saunders

aboard Silversea's Silver Spirit in December.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

Today is an exciting day for us here at From the Deck Chair.  After one and a half years in existence, I am pleased to announce that we’ve joined forces with Ralph Grizzle’s The Avid Cruiser in order to bring you more – well, everything.  Ship Tours.  Reviews.  Live voyage reports.  The whole works.

From the Deck Chair isn’t going anywhere; rather, we’ll be moving our site to the Avid Cruiser servers in the coming weeks.  You’ll also be able to access FTDC via our very own, brand-spanking new domain name: http://www.fromthedeckchair.com/  All of our existing content will be preserved, and we’ll still keep churning out articles six days a week.

 Ralph Grizzle.

Photo courtesy of The Avid Cruiser.

But most exciting is our partnership with Ralph Grizzle.  Extraordinarily well-respected in the cruise and travel industry, Ralph boasts an impressive list of accomplishments, and was the North American Travel Journalism Association  pick for “Best Cruise Writing” in 2005.  His sites, Avid Cruiser, River Cruise Advisor, and Family Cruise Advisor, offer the same unique perspective we strive to create here at From the Deck Chair.  

But more importantly, I like Ralph.  He’s a great guy, and if you meet him, it’s hard not to be taken by his height (over six feet) and his firm handshake and quick smile.  He enjoys what he does for a living, and it shows. 

For myself personally, that’s exactly who I want to partner with to take this humble little site to the next level.  This agreement allows us to share content back and forth between sites, and hopefully introduce readers to more unique cruises, ships, itineraries and voyages.  And that's something we're both extremely passionate about.

So, if you happen to see either of us on a cruise (we’re not hard to spot; look for the guys with the laptops, cameras and video cameras strapped to us at all times), be sure stop by and say ‘hi’!

Aaron Saunders (that Deckchair Guy)

Ralph Grizzle (the Avid Cruiser)

Photo of the Week - February 18

Photo © Aaron Saunders

It's Friday, and once again that means it's time for our Photos of the Week.  Shown above is one of the most bizarre seas we've ever seen, shot from the deck of Cunard's Queen Mary 2 leaving New York after the passing of Hurricane Kyle in September, 2008.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

On a Baltic cruise in 2009 aboard Princess Cruises' Crown Princess, we ran into Celebrity Equinox as she sailed from Geiranger, Norway on her maiden voyage.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

Looking to pass the time aboard Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas?  Why not tackle the enormous rock-climbing wall attached to the rear of the ship's funnel?

Photo © Aaron Saunders

The Piazza-style Atrium aboard Princess Cruises' Crown Princess makes a striking first impression on passengers and crew alike.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

I think he's going to miss the ship!  Seen shoreside in beautiful Alesund, Norway.

From the Deck Chair will return Sunday, February 20th.

Europe 2011: Why Now is the Year to Go

Europe is a destination of intrigue and wonder.
Here, Silversea's Silver Cloud passes under London's
famous Tower Bridge.
Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Europe is a destination that just seems to get more popular with each passing year.  And with good reason: there's more history, natural beauty, culinary delights, and fine people packed into this one area of the world than you can shake a stick at.  Are you a history lover?  The Acropolis at Athens, the Colosseum in Rome, or the Tower of London might be up your alley.  Then there's the natural beauty of Europe.  The majesty of the Norwegian Fjords is a tough act to follow, along with the semi-sunken splendor of Venice and the whitewashed beauty of the Greek Islands like Mykonos, Rhodes, and Santorini.

 The impressive Cathedral in Winchester, England - just

a short drive from the popular embarkation port of Southampton.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

If you ask any North American about Europe, chances are they'll gush about it if they've been over there. Those who haven't been may not see the benefit to being crammed in economy class for ten to twelve hours.  But take it from this traveler - Europe is a destination worth exploring regardless of how many hours, connections, or flights it takes - it is a magical, incredible journey.

And the best year to travel to Europe may be this very one.  Here's why:

Variety
Northern European and Mediterranean voyages have never been more popular, and as a result nearly every line has increased their capacity in Europe for 2011.  The result is a win-win for passengers and cruise lines alike, and means that there is no shortage of itineraries to suit every taste and budget.  From ultra-affordable six and seven day Mediterranean cruises to longer 14-day British Isles voyages, there's sure to be something for everyone this year.  

Year-Round Voyages
Once upon a time, the European cruise season was largely relegated to the months between April and October, but no longer.  In addition to Europe-based lines like Fred. Olsen and MSC Cruises, more North American lines are getting in on the act, with Royal Caribbean and NCL basing ships on the continent year-round.  Some lines, like Princess and Holland America have such lengthy European seasons that finding a getaway in late November or early December isn't out of the question. 



Reasonable Exchange Rates
European currencies like the Pound Sterling and the Euro continue to equalize relative to the US and Canadian dollars, and are at very reasonable rates compared to even four or five years ago.  With the former exchange rate, a hotel stay in London could be prohibitively expensive.  In 2011, that same hotel stay is dramatically more affordable.

Bonus Incentives
While there's no denying airfare costs to Europe can be a stumbling block, many upscale cruise lines are offering free roundtrip economy-class airfare from a number of North American gateways.  While these voyages may carry a higher up-front cost, do the math: if the seemingly less-expensive cruise requires a greater cost in airfare, it may make sense to upgrade to a line that does offer a free air package.  In many cases, not only will it make financial sense, but travel sense too: many upscale lines include additional amenities like complimentary beverages, gratuities included in your cruise fare, and upgraded staterooms, cuisine and service.

Historic Bryggen lines the waterfront in Bergen, Norway.

Photo © Aaron Saunders 

The bottom line?  You can't go wrong with a European cruise.  Trust us.

For more information on European voyages, see your favorite cruise line's website or visit your travel agent.  Better yet, why not follow along with us - virtually - this spring and fall when we sail to Europe?  You're sure to be hooked!

Carnival Experiences Record Bookings

Carnival has just experienced its greatest booking numbers since 2007.

Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruises.

 

The folks over at Carnival Cruise Lines must be giddy with delight: they've just come off of a record booking week the likes of which haven't been seen since 2007, before the recession took a chunk out of their profits.

Last week, the line booked a whopping 165,308 guests on future voyages.  If you break it down, that's roughly 23,000 guest bookings per day.   Keep in mind, these aren't numbers for Carnival PLC, the umbrella corporation that oversees lines like Holland America and Seabourn.  This is just Carnival Cruise Lines, better known as "The Fun Ships" - and those numbers are nothing to sniff at.

Gerry Cahill, President & CEO of Carnival, mentioned that while the economy is improving, customers are still seeking value in their cruise vacations - something we've heard for months from a number of industry insiders.  It's here that the travel industry differentiates itself from others who have found themselves hit hard by the recession.  Rather than cutting back travel altogether, most people are looking for the cruise vacation that will give them the most bang for their buck.  As a result, cruise lines haven't been forced to price themselves out of the market in the same fashion that other industries have had to just to make a buck.

The numbers released yesterday also speak to the quality of product Carnival offers.  Is it Regent or Seabourn?  No - but it does offer one heck of a good time for a price that many find irresistible, and that is a formula that has proven incredibly successful for the line, which operates 22 "Fun Ships" around the world. 

Like many lines, Carnival is also continually re-inventing itself, and no doubt attracting new passengers in the process.  Just a few months ago, the line announced plans to deploy its Carnival Spirit to Australia year-round - a very esoteric choice for the line, which is perhaps known best for its variety of North American homeports.

But with over 165,000 guests booking passage on Carnival last week, we can't help but wonder: what will this week be like?

For more information on the voyages offered by Carnival, be sure to visit their website. 

Unique Itinerary: Asia

 Silver Shadow Voyage 3130: Asia with a Twist.

Illustration courtesy of Silversea Cruises

When we look for unique itineraries, we like to focus on voyages that offer an interesting mix of ports to destinations that are either off the beaten path or simply different from other competing cruises.  Throw in a great ship, and you've got a recipe for a stellar cruise vacation.

One of the hottest "new" areas of the world to cruise is Asia.  After being tentatively explored on a handful of voyages by various lines, the popularity of Asian cruises have exploded in the past few years, offering passengers the ability to experience a variety of unique and historic countries from the comfort of your ship.  from the West Coast of North America, a flight to Hong Kong or Tokyo is only a tad longer than a similar flight to London or Barcelona, meaning Asia has never been more accessible.

It's also the destination served by our Unique Itinerary of the Week.

Departing November 9, 2011 aboard Silversea's Silver Shadow, this interesting voyage whisks guests to some of the most diverse ports in Vietnam, including an overnight stay in historic Ho Chi Minh City. 

The full itinerary:

Nov 09 2011	Wed	Hong Kong, China		6:30 PM
Nov 10 2011	Thu	Day at Sea
Nov 11 2011	Fri	Haiphong (Hanoi), Vietnam	8:00 AM	9:00 PM
Nov 12 2011	Sat	Ha Long Bay, Vietnam	7:00 AM	1:00 PM
Nov 13 2011	Sun	Chan May (Hue/Da Nang), Vietnam	8:00 AM	6:00 PM
Nov 14 2011	Mon	Nha Trang, Vietnam	1:00 PM	6:00 PM
Nov 15 2011	Tue	Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam	1:00 PM
Nov 16 2011	Wed	Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam		3:00 PM
Nov 17 2011	Thu	Day at Sea
Nov 18 2011	Fri	Singapore, Singapore	8:00 AM

Sweetening the deal are Silversea's "Passport To Luxury" offerings for this voyage: roundtrip airfare and transfers are included from most major North American gateways, and guests will receive a $1,000 Onboard Spending Credit to be used as they see fit.  Why not take in some of Silversea's diverse shore excursions, relax in the Silver Shadow's spa, or treat yourself to a full degustation menu in the line's signature Le Champagne specialty restaurant.  Complete with vintage wine pairings, a meal here is like nothing you've ever had before, and the experience in itself is the real reward.

Why not use your Onboard Spending Credit on a superb 

degustation experience in Le Champagne?

Photo © 2010 Aaron Saunders 

One thousand dollars goes quite a long way on Silversea, since all drinks - from water to wine and spirits - are included in the cost of your cruise fare, along with all gratuities.  In fact, the hardest part of a Silversea cruise is remembering you don't need to reach for your cruise card every time you order a drink!

But there's also another reason to see Asia now.  With more lines deploying ships on a seasonal or even year-round basis to Asia, this is one hot destination that won't stay relatively unexplored forever.

For more information, including full pricing details, shore excursions, and information about Silver Shadow, visit the Silversea Cruises website.

Grand Princess Refit Alters Profile; Adds Amenities

When Princess Cruises launched Grand Princess in 1998, it made headlines not only for its size, but also its distinctive styling.  But in a refit later this spring, she stands to loose her most distinctive external feature - and that's not necessarily a bad thing.

 A 3D rendering of Grand Princess, sans Skywalkers nightclub.

Photo-rendering courtesy of Princess Cruises.

During a drydock from April 11 to May 4 in the Bahamas, Grand Princess will loose her distinctive, elevated "spoiler" above her stern.  Home to Skywalkers Night Club, this area was the first of its kind to be built on any cruise ship, and was serviced by a very cool moving walkway that elevated passengers from Deck 15 to Deck 18, with stunning views of the ocean and ship below.

 Skywalker's, as seen from Deck 15 aboard sister-ship Golden Princess.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

Skywalkers interior at night aboard Golden Princess.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

But when Grand Princess was built, there was no existing real-world prototype to compare to.  As a result, the ship was top and stern heavy owing to heavier construction materials being used.  This increases the overall structural stress on the hull, and reduced the ship's fuel economy.

In its place on Deck 15 will be a new nightclub, One5, named for the deck it resides on.

Because sister ships Golden Princess and Star Princess were constructed later, their "spoilers" were made of lighter materials and aren't subject to the same stresses as the heavier one aboard Grand Princess.  Thus, the line has no current plans to remove Skywalkers from them.

Besides the structural considerations, many cruisers disliked how the massive structure blocked out the sunlight to the pool and terraced decks below.  When we sailed aboard sister-ship Golden Princess in 2008, we also noticed Skywalkers itself was rarely utilized, despite the stunning views.  Conversely, the area was far more populated in its lower-deck incarnation aboard our Crown Princess voyages. 

 Grand Princess's atrium will also see substantial refurbishment.

Photo-illustration courtesy of Princess Cruises.

Grand Princess is also getting a makeover on the inside.  Her atrium - always the most different from later designs - will be transformed into the line's signature Piazza, first popularized on 2006's Crown Princess. The popular International Cafe, serving up light snacks and drinks, will be located here, as will Vines, Princess's dedicated wine and sushi bar.  More than 30 different wines will be available by the glass or bottle, and tapas are now offered here as well.

A new Tea Lounge and Library concept, called Leaves, will also be installed on Grand Princess.  In partnership with the Mighty Leaf Tea Company, over five hundred (yes, five hundred!) different blends of tea will be offered, along with the assistance of a trained tea sommelier to aid guests in their selection.  Mix in some books, and you've got one area that could prove to be incredibly popular.

The line's signature Crown Grill specialty restaurant will also make an appearance here, serving up delicious steak, seafood and lobster.  The casino will be remodeled, along with enhancements to the Horizon Court Lido Buffet, Lotus Spa, and general public areas.  Crooner's Martini Bar, a popular addition on other Princess ships, will also be added during the refit.

While she may be loosing her most distinctive external feature, these exciting changes and refurbishments ensure Grand Princess will continue to offer passengers a stellar cruise experience for years to come.

For more information on both Grand Princess, be sure to visit the Princess Cruises website.

Solo Cruising: What You Need to Know

Will that be champagne for one or two?  

Photo © Aaron Saunders 

Chances are, it's going to happen to all of us at some point in our cruising "career" - the one voyage where a significant other, family member, or friend isn't available to cruise with you.  What's a cruiseaholic to do?

Keep going - solo, that is.

Cruising alone isn't as scary as it might sound.  After all, you're on a cruise ship with a few hundred or thousand other guests, some of whom are undoubtedly sailing solo as well.  Even then, most people aboard any ship are there to meet new friends and enjoy themselves, and with cruise lines like NCL, P&O, and Royal Caribbean building solo-occupancy staterooms again, there has never been a better time to set off on your own.

I have taken five solo cruises: four with Holland America Line, and one with Royal Caribbean.  I can't say one really does it better than the other; it just depends on your personal tastes.  Do I miss my fiancee?  Of course!  But there are certain voyages she has no desire to go on, and I respect that.  Trust me, you never want to force your significant other or friend into a voyage they don't want - it's a recipe for trouble.

But before you do sail solo, here's some things to keep in mind.

Solo and Single are Two Different Things
Contrary to what you might think, people sailing solo aren't necessarily all single.  This isn't The Love Boat, after all!  But regardless of relationship status, solo cruisers are looking to mingle and meet new friends, and cruises provide a unique opportunity to do so.  The best way to do this is to involve yourself in activities that encourage team participation.  Trivia, scavenger hunts, lectures, Name that Tune - all good activities to meet people on a regular basis, since many cruises include these events daily.  There are also usually solo cruiser "mixers" in the evening (Holland America in particular does a great job of these.)

Beware the Single Occupancy Rate
Because - very technically - you're depriving the cruise line of the additional revenue by occupying a stateroom meant for two people, most lines will charge a single supplement.  This can range anywhere from 110% of the per-person cruise fare all the way to 200% - the same amount as you would have paid had you sailed with someone else.  But don't despair!  Many lines usually offer discounted single supplements on select sailings.  Supplements also tend to be higher for Veranda and Suite categories than inside or outside staterooms.


Some single-supplement-friendly lines?  Carnival, Holland America, and Silversea all offer decent single supplement rates, and in some cases waive them entirely for select sailings.  Historically, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean have consistently charged 200% of the per-person fare, though this is beginning to change.  I sailed aboard Grandeur of the Seas in 2009 for only 10% more than the per-person fare - making the quick five-day voyage more than affordable.

Socialize - Pre-Cruise
In this digital age, why wait until you're onboard to meet new friends?  The internet offers several great resources to "meet" additional cruisers on your sailing long before you first step aboard.

One of the best sites for this is MeetOnCruise.   You can create a profile, find your sailing, and see who else will be traveleing with you.  If your sailing is a long way off, be patient as new cruisers add themselves in advance of your departure date.  Sometimes groups organize get-togethers while onboard, while other times it can just be nice to share information about your ports, shore excursions, and ship.

CruiseCritic's Roll Call forums also provide an excellent way to meet people on your sailing before you even leave the house.

Have Fun
The bottom line: everyone is on a cruise to have a good time.  Regardless of which line or ship you're sailing on, this one fact holds true. Embrace it.  Get out, mingle, interact, and do everything you would if you were traveling with another person.

Enjoy yourself, and you're certain to enjoy your cruise - whether you're sailing by yourself or not.