Blog Feed: Cruise Blog - Cruise Reviews and News by the Staff at Direct Line Cruises

Sushi and BBQ on the Carnival Breeze

Published on 2012-05-09 17:14:39

Just reading about the two new dining venues aboard the Carnival Breeze makes me hungry!  Bonsai Sushi will be Carnival’s first full-service sushi restaurant.  The menu will present Asian-inspired cuisine, and the restaurant itself will be quite unique. The décor will feature artwork by contemporary urban artist, Erni Vales, best known for his development of… Continue reading 'Sushi and BBQ on the Carnival Breeze' > read more

The Return of the “Solsticized” Summit

Published on 2012-05-07 11:08:29

Have you dismissed the thought of cruising on the Celebrity Summit this year because “you’ve been there, done that?”  Well let me tell you, if you were to board her today, you wouldn’t recognize her!  The Celebrity Summit returned to Cape Liberty on May 6th having been completely “solsticized”, in other words, renovated from bow… Continue reading 'The Return of the “Solsticized” Summit' > read more

Punchliner Comedy Clubs Presented by George Lopez

Published on 2012-05-02 16:02:17

Carnival Cruise Line has teamed up with legendary comedian and TV personality George Lopez, who will become the cruise line’s director for comedy. The newly launched venue, Punchliner Comedy Clubs Presented by George Lopez, recently made its debut on the Carnival Miracle, and will eventually be expanded throughout the fleet. Lopez will take an active… Continue reading 'Punchliner Comedy Clubs Presented by George Lopez' > read more

Norwegian Breakaway Reveals

Published on 2012-04-27 19:05:43

Exciting features were revealed today regarding the Norwegian Breakaway, set to sail from New York City in the spring of 2013.  While last month’s announcements focused on the Waterfront area, this month’s reveals were more “action packed”. The Norwegian Breakaway will feature a three-story Sports Complex and multiple water features that the entire family can… Continue reading 'Norwegian Breakaway Reveals' > read more

Olympic Games to be Shown on Celebrity Cruise Line Ships

Published on 2012-04-26 11:02:51

Wow, has it been four years since the last summer Olympic games?  On July 27th the torch of the XXX Olympiad, carried from Olympia, Greece, will reach the final destination of its relay when the Olympic cauldron is ignited in London, England. The event will be broadcast worldwide.  Among those that will be able to… Continue reading 'Olympic Games to be Shown on Celebrity Cruise Line Ships' > read more

A Tour of the Azamara Journey

Published on 2012-04-24 10:50:07

Last Wednesday the Azamara Journey pulled into New York City for an overnight stay, before heading out for a transatlantic voyage. A small group of travel agents, myself included, were invited aboard for a ship tour followed by dinner in one of the specialty restaurants. What follows is a review of our visit, with pictures… Continue reading 'A Tour of the Azamara Journey' > read more

Where will the Norwegian Getaway Call Home?

Published on 2012-04-18 13:53:36

Those of us in the Northeast were jumping for joy when we received the news that the soon to sail Norwegian Breakaway (debuting in May 2013) would call New York City her year-round home.  So, that left us questioning where her sister, the Norwegian Getaway (arriving in 2014) would cruise from. Today it was announced… Continue reading 'Where will the Norwegian Getaway Call Home?' > read more

Dining at the Chef’s Table

Published on 2012-04-15 12:46:14

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience while on your next cruise, consider booking the Chef’s Table.  On this special evening you can look forward to a multi-course gourmet meal, not offered anywhere else on the ship, prepared by the master chef.  Each course is accompanied by an explanation of ingredients, preparation methods, and… Continue reading 'Dining at the Chef’s Table' > read more

Cruising With Baby

Published on 2012-04-10 11:18:37

Vacationing with a baby can be a challenge. However, choosing a cruise is often a smart choice, because your accommodations, restaurants and entertainment are all in one general spot, like a floating resort!  Here are some tips from the cruising moms at Direct Line Cruises that will hopefully, make your cruise vacation even easier and… Continue reading 'Cruising With Baby' > read more

“Love for Sail”

Published on 2012-04-05 10:42:21

Set you DVR’s for the April 10th premier of the new dating reality series “Love for Sail” (10pm E.T. Lifetime channel).  The show features three Norwegian Cruise Line ships- Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Star. In each episode, four women will set sail hoping to meet “Mr. Right” onboard. The singles will participate in… Continue reading '“Love for Sail”' > read more

There’s An App For That!

Published on 2012-04-02 14:55:55

If you’re a techie you’ll appreciate this! Norwegian Cruise Line has created an app that enables iPhone, iPad, Android and Windows7 users to connect with Norwegian Epic’s onboard guest information and service system during their cruise. It also enables passengers to communicate with each other via voice and text messaging. The app is free, although… Continue reading 'There’s An App For That!' > read more

Celebrity Cruise Line Wants to Excite Your Senses

Published on 2012-03-27 12:33:38

Celebrity Cruises‘ new lifestyle book, “Excite the Senses”, has inspired a new series of food-and-wine-themed cruises that will offer guests a unique, behind-the-scenes experience and a rare opportunity to get to know the Celebrity culinary team through intimate demonstrations, tastings and dinners. Celebrity’s Master Chef and Vice President of Culinary Operations, Jacques van Staden says,… Continue reading 'Celebrity Cruise Line Wants to Excite Your Senses' > read more

NCL Enhances Kids Club Fleetwide and Debut’s Spectacular Youth Area Aboard the Breakaway

Published on 2012-03-25 16:41:00

As a parent I quickly discovered that my vacation experience would always be directly tied to my son’s vacation experience. That is to say, whether he was three years old or thirteen years old, if he was kept busy, engaged in age appropriate activities, and having fun with new friends, then it would be a… Continue reading 'NCL Enhances Kids Club Fleetwide and Debut’s Spectacular Youth Area Aboard the Breakaway' > read more

Monarch Steps Down From Her Throne

Published on 2012-03-22 12:02:41

It’s been 20 years since I stepped aboard the regal Monarch of the Seas, my first Royal Caribbean cruise.  It was a trip that would change the way I would vacation in the future, and unknowingly influence my future career path. I remember being in awe of the glitzy and glamorous Centrum and elegant dining… Continue reading 'Monarch Steps Down From Her Throne' > read more

Norwegian Breakaway Video

Published on 2012-03-21 16:07:08

Enjoy this brand NEW video of the Norwegian Breakaway, which is scheduled to begin sailing to Bermuda round-trip from New York City in May of 2013.  This looks like an amazing new cruise ship.  What do you think? > read more

Norwegian Breakaway Reveals

Published on 2012-03-19 14:42:17

> read more

NCL Expands Moderno Churrascaria Fleet-Wide

Published on 2012-03-05 15:21:52

Due to popular demand and rave reviews, Norwegian Cruise Line is adding its signature Brazilian-style steakhouse, Moderno Churrascaria, throughout the fleet. So maybe you’re asking, what exactly is a Churrascaria? In the early 1800′s, European immigrants settled in the Rio Grande do Sul area of Brazil and became ranchers.  At mealtime they would gather together… Continue reading 'NCL Expands Moderno Churrascaria Fleet-Wide' > read more

Direct Line Cruises Will Be At The NY Times Travel Show

Published on 2012-03-01 10:22:54

Looking for something to do this weekend?  How about spending a day at the 2012 New York Times Travel Show, which will be held at the Javits Convention Center at 11th Avenue & West 34th Street in NYC! There will be almost 500 exhibitors, representing all segments of the travel industry, including Direct Line Cruises! … Continue reading 'Direct Line Cruises Will Be At The NY Times Travel Show' > read more

SpongeBob Boards the Norwegian Gem

Published on 2012-02-27 15:19:14

Welcome to the newest crew members that recently boarded the Norwegian Gem; SpongeBob, Patrick, and Dora the Explorer!  The Gem is now the third ship in the fleet to offer little cruisers and their families the Nickelodeon experience. Norwegian Cruise Line’s CEO, Kevin Sheehan, stated, “We’ve had tremendous success with the Nickelodeon-themed entertainment and programming… Continue reading 'SpongeBob Boards the Norwegian Gem' > read more

Introducing the NEW DirectLineCruises.com

Published on 2012-02-23 10:26:55

Have you been on the Direct Line Cruises website lately?  There’s a lot of new and exciting additions that we think you’re going to like! We’ve created comprehensive travel center dedicated solely to cruising! Let me tell you about some of its exciting new features! One of the things we’re most excited about is the… Continue reading 'Introducing the NEW DirectLineCruises.com' > read more

NCL Announces Latitude Rewards

Published on 2011-12-07 14:13:24

Norwegian Cruise Line has converted their popular Latitudes loyalty program to a points based system. Latitudes Rewards makes moving up to the next tier of membership faster and easier than ever before. > read more

Advice for First Time Cruisers

Published on 2011-11-30 09:17:55

If you’re a first time cruiser (or not) we hope you will find the following advice helpful. > read more

Find Out What's Been Happening to your Favorite Royal Caribbean Ships

Published on 2011-11-20 14:09:37

Read about whats happening with your favorite Royal Caribbean ships, Oasis of the Seas, Splendour of the Seas and Independence of the Seas. > read more

Cruising to Hawaii and the Island of Oahu

Published on 2011-11-14 18:20:10

Many cruises to Hawaii start or end on Oahu, the third largest and most densely populated Hawaiian Island.Here is my list of recommendations for you to consider while in port. > read more

Our Favorite Things About the Celebrity Silhouette

Published on 2011-11-07 10:20:53

We just got off the Celebrity Silhouette and want to share with you some of our favorite things. > read more

Cruising to Hawaii with a Stop at the Big Island

Published on 2011-10-31 09:32:13

A cruise to the Hawaiian Islands is a cruise to an enchanted land, especially the Island of Hawaii, itself. The cultural and geographical diversity of the island offers so much to see and do. Here are my favorites! > read more

Immersive Europe Wine Cruise with Celebrity Cruise Line

Published on 2011-10-24 08:57:28

From September 7 through November 18, 2012, coinciding with the fall harvest season, the Celebrity Constellation will present seven “Immersive Europe Wine Cruises” embarking from Southampton, England. > read more

Cruising to Hawaii and the Port of Kauai

Published on 2011-10-18 09:07:29

With so much splendor to discover on a cruise to Hawaii, what’s the best way to spend a day in Kauai? These are my favorite activities, and all can be arranged on your own, or by simply booking the cruise line’s shore excursion. > read more

My Favorite Maui Shore Excursions

Published on 2011-10-10 09:37:54

I’d like to share with you my favorite picks for Maui. All are easy to arrange on your own, but for those that want to leave the planning to the professionals, they are also available through the cruise line’s shore excursion department. > read more

Norwegian Breakaway to Homeport in NYC

Published on 2011-10-06 14:28:57

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that their newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway, will homeport in New York City when she launches in April of 2013! Don’t miss an announcement of any sort regarding this incredible ship including pricing and booking option (when it becomes available) by checking in regularly at http://www.norwegiancruiselinebreakaway.com/. > read more

The Celebrity Silhouettes Lawn Club Grill

Published on 2011-07-05 16:02:03

The Celebrity Silhouette's "Lawn Club Grill”, as the name suggests, celebrates the passion of grilling! > read more

Celebrity Upgrades Millennium Class Ships

Published on 2011-06-27 19:09:54

Three Millennium-class ships, the Millennium, Infinity, and Summit are scheduled to receive some exciting "solsticizing" upgrades between now and the spring of 2012. > read more

NCL Shares Details on Project Breakaway

Published on 2011-06-22 10:27:40

The reveal of Project Breakaway's standard balcony cabins and mini-suites showed a product in which form meets function, aimed at maximizing space throughout. > read more

Radiance of the Seas and the Royal Advantage

Published on 2011-06-21 09:00:29

As part of the Royal Advantage program, Royal Caribbean has begun adding some of the best aspects of the Oasis class ships to others vessels in their fleet, and the Radiance is the latest recipient. > read more

Carnival Miracle to Cruise Year Round from NYC

Published on 2011-06-17 22:23:52

Beginning in 2012 the Carnival Miracle will leave year round from New York City, offering three different 8-night itineraries! > read more

Dual Embarkation Ports For Norwegian Epic

Published on 2011-06-11 11:33:44

Norwegian Cruise Line announced that they have added the option of a second embarkation port on 2012 Mediterranean sailings on the Epic. > read more

Norwegian Dawn Gets a Facelift

Published on 2011-06-06 09:53:51

A multi-million dollar refurbishment has left the Norwegian Dawn shiny new with lots of great enhancements. > read more

Cruising the Mediterranean and the Port of Crete, Greece

Published on 2011-05-29 18:50:05

Crete has a couple of different ports where cruise ships dock. The Navigator called on Chania, but it would be a short day as our all aboard was at 2:30 pm. While the beach was high on out to do list, we woke to cloudy and cool weather. What’ > read more

Cruising the Mediterranean and the Port of Kusadasi, Turkey

Published on 2011-05-28 12:38:42

Kusadasi was the port I was most looking forward to, mostly because I wanted to see the ancient city of Ephesus and some of the surrounding sites. I have to say, it was one of the most magnificent places I have ever visited. The ship offered many di > read more

Cruising the Mediterranean and the Port of Athens

Published on 2011-05-27 14:56:55

Athens….the birthplace of democracy and home to some of the wisest men of ancient times. A city watched over by the ancient gods, Athena, Zeus, Poseidon to name a few, and where their memory is preserved. It is no wonder that in modern day pe > read more

Cruising the Mediterranean, At Sea

Published on 2011-05-26 09:33:33

I’m always pleased with the entertainment and activities aboard a Royal Caribbean ship and this cruise is no exception. The ice show is called Ice Dancin’ and is spectacular! Gosh, I feel like I’m always saying that about the ice s > read more

Cruising the Mediterranean and the port of Messina, Italy

Published on 2011-05-25 14:34:15

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean. When looking at a map of Italy, it is located off the toe of the Italian “boot”. The Navigator docked at the port of Messina on the island of Sicily. There are many options as to what > read more

All Aboard Navigator of the Seas

Published on 2011-05-24 08:37:22

We were in no big rush to be the first onboard so made a quick journey out on this last morning in Rome to pick up a pair of shoes admired in a window late last night . And since we were passing a gelato place, I figured why not. There are so [...] > read more

Cruising to the Mediterranean; Arriving in Rome

Published on 2011-05-23 13:00:37

We’re here! We arrived in Rome on schedule and our driver was waiting to whisk us off to the hotel. The place we chose, Hotel Nazionale was centrally located, just a short walk from the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. The rooms were lovely, the > read more

Big Sale Coming Soon

Published on 2011-05-17 15:08:01

Here is a quick heads up. There is a major cruise line sale coming next week. Stay tuned to our blog for more details. - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad > read more

Planning a European Cruise aboard Navigator of the Seas

Published on 2011-05-16 15:29:34

I'm bound for Rome and a cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas. I invite you to join me for the week, (pending a decent internet connection) as we tour Rome, Athens, Messina, Crete, Ephesus, and of course, check out all that the Na > read more

Cruising to Asia aboard Celebrity Cruise Line

Published on 2011-05-09 13:50:59

Beginning the winter of 2012 through early 2013 Celebrity Cruise Line will begin cruising through Asia. > read more

Cruising With Special Needs

Published on 2011-05-02 13:45:35

If you are a cruiser with special needs or are traveling with someone that has special needs, there is no reason why you cannot enjoy a stress-free, perfect vacation with just a little bit of advance planning. > read more

Royal Caribbean Partner of the Year Celebration

Published on 2011-04-26 10:32:28

Direct Line Cruises' celebration of being named Royal Caribbean's Northeast Partner of the Year included a visit from Vicki Freed, the cruise line's Senior Vice President of Sales. > read more

Cruising to Alaska and the Port of Skagway

Published on 2011-04-17 15:41:55

Skagway is the historic hub of any Alaskan cruise and spending a day here is enjoying the great outdoors at its best. > read more

Cruising to Ketchikan, Alaska

Published on 2011-04-11 12:55:01

One of the many great things about a cruise to Alaska is discovering Ketchikan. > read more

Cruising to Alaska The Port of Juneau

Published on 2011-04-04 12:23:57

A cruise to Alaska can be one of the most amazing trips you can take, and a stop in Juneau starts things off in an astounding way with its spectacular landscape. > read more

Alaska Primer

Published on 2011-03-28 12:40:32

Find out all you need to know about cruising to Alaska . > read more

Royal Caribbean Updates

Published on 2011-03-21 13:23:37

Itinerary Updates for 2012:  Royal Caribbean is shaking things up a bit with the 2012 sailings from the Northeast.  Now don’t get too excited…I’m not talking about a new ship coming into the area (I know, I know, that’s what we’re all rea > read more

Guess Who’s Coming To New York

Published on 2011-03-03 15:35:49

Beginning in October 2012 the Norwegian Pearl will call New York City her home! > read more

Updates from Norwegian Cruise Line

Published on 2011-02-24 14:10:21

If you’re an NCL cruiser then here’s some news you may find interesting > read more

Celebrity Cruise Line 2011 Guest Chefs

Published on 2011-02-17 12:27:25

“Savor Your Destination” is part of the Celebrity Life program that gives food and wine enthusiasts the opportunity to enhance their cruise experience with a series of events that emphasize their passion for fine food. This year’s “big star > read more

Norwegian Cruise Line DASH SALE

Published on 2011-02-15 11:27:40

Don't miss out on the NCL Dash Sale from 2/15 to 2/18/11. > read more

Royal Caribbean announces Project Sunshine

Published on 2011-02-13 14:54:14

Royal Caribbean announces new class of ship, Project Sunshine. > read more

Update on Great Stirrup Cay

Published on 2011-02-09 12:07:00

The first phase of enhancements are complete on Norwegian Cruise Line’s private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay.  A new marina with four docks was constructed for the island’s tenders. “By moving the tenders’ arrival to the marina and > read more

Extending Your European Cruise

Published on 2011-02-07 17:30:28

Fly into your European embarkation port a few days early or book a cruisetour. Either option gives you the time to spend doing and seeing what’s important to you. > read more

Choosing a European Cruise Itinerary

Published on 2011-01-25 15:03:24

Cruising is one of the best ways to introduce yourself to the many wonders of the Old World, but with so many itineraries to choose from, how does one decide? > read more

Royal Caribbean announces changes to the Crown & Anchor Society

Published on 2011-01-21 15:11:53

For the second time in less than two years, Royal Caribbean is making changes to their Crown & Anchor Loyalty program. > read more

Royal Caribbean International Names Direct Line Cruises Northeast Partner of the Year

Published on 2011-01-17 15:24:31

Royal Caribbean Names Direct Line Cruises Northeast Partner of the Year. > read more

Europe by Land or Sea?

Published on 2011-01-14 11:31:38

Discovering Europe by cruise ship is a dream come true. Cruising is a stress free, uncomplicated, and cost-effective. It’s a wonderful opportunity to visit some of the most enchanting cities in the world and experience their beauty, history and cul > read more

Europe by Land or Sea

Published on 2011-01-14 11:31:38

Discovering Europe by cruise ship is a dream come true. Cruising is a stress free, uncomplicated, and cost-effective. It’s a wonderful opportunity to visit some of the most enchanting cities in the world and experience their beauty, history and cul > read more

The Crew Makes the Cruise Line

Published on 2010-12-21 15:59:18

When Royal Caribbean recently announced that they were increasing the suggested gratuity guidelines, it made me reflect upon my own experiences with the crew aboard the various Royal Caribbean ships I have cruised. > read more