Cruise news CRYSTAL EXCLUSIVE EXCURSION COLLECTION Crystal Cruises is launching a new exclusive collection of “Boutique Adventures”, which are shoreside experiences only available to Crystal guests. Debuting this spring with its Mediterranean cruises, these “Boutique Adventures” will take guests inside private estates, art studios, museums, castles and well-known businesses for exclusive insider meals, lessons, workshops and behind-the-scenes tours with fascinating, renowned local experts. Imagine in Florence viewing the U zi Gallery’s private Contini Bonacossi Collection. In Corfu, receive a private painting lesson from the President of the Corfu Painters Society. In Sorrento, enjoy hands-on cooking lessons and meals with local, Michelin-star chefs. In Taormina dine and listen to a private classical concert at an ancient Sicilian castle. Accommodating only 1-15 guests, these intimate specially-designed outings will provide once in a lifetime cultural opportunities. Also part of Crystal’s shore excursion program is the “You Care, We Care” voluntourism program available on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Through this program, guests can get directly involved in worthwhile causes in the destinations visited; Crystal sets up all the arrangements, including transportation and o ers these opportunities for free to guests. Opportunities include assisting with poverty relief, education, workplace training, cultural preservation, environmental conservation, animal welfare, building/ repainting homes, renovating local schools and community centers, helping improve communities’ living conditions and general goodwill. The program helps travelers give back, while also encouraging cross-cultural understanding. INTRODUCING THE NORWEGIAN GETAWAY Norwegian Cruise Line will introduce its newest ship, Norwegian Getaway in February 2014. She will be a sister ship to the new Norwegian Breakaway which begins sailing in May from New York City and both will carry 4,000 guests. Getaway will have many of the same outstanding features as Breakaway with both ships incorporating ocean views in a big way. There’s The Waterfront, which will feature an oceanfront boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, lounges, entertainment, gaming and more. There will be a total of 17 dining venues, along with 12 bars and lounges. The accommodations available are sure to accommodate every guest, whether you’re a solo traveler seeking a cozy studio, a family that needs a spacious two-bedroom, or a group of friends looking for the convenience of connecting staterooms. Getaway will sail the Eastern Caribbean year-round from Miami, offering 7-day cruises visiting St. Maarten, St. Thomas, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Nassau. CELEBRITY REFLECTION Launched recently to much acclaim, Celebrity Re ection, Celebrity’s newest Solstice class ship is the last in a series of ve stunning vessels. She boasts an expanded deck in comparison to the other Solstice ships, with 72 additional staterooms overall, more seating in the main and specialty restaurants, extra sun lounges on the pool deck and more seats in the theater. The ship’s standout feature is its Re ection Suite, with an all glass shower, cantilevered to extend out over the sea in the suite’s spectacular sea view bathroom! Popular spots onboard include Michael’s Club which features over 50 craft beers for tasting and sampling. Guests can take a painting class with a master artist in The Art Studio, and then enjoy outdoor grilling in the Lawn Club Grill or relax in the cabana-style haven, The Alcoves, within the Lawn Club. Commencing in May, she will sail on 10-, 11-, 15- and 16-day cruises cruises in the eastern Mediterranean, sailing from Rome visiting a variety of ports including Sicily, Athens, Istanbul and the Greek Isles. In November, she will be back in the Caribbean sailing 7-day eastern Caribbean cruises from Miami for the winter season. VEGA GONZALEZ / SHUTTERSTOCK CRUISE HOLIDAYS 9