|
PRINCESS CRUISES
Taking to the high seas aboard a Princess Love Boat has become a popular holiday tradition for many seasoned cruisers. While passengers visit exotic locales, soak up the sun and enjoy the many activities a cruise has to offer, the age-old traditions of Christmas and New Year's will surround them onboard.
Offering a wide range of Christmas and New Year's cruises across the globe, Princess Cruises' fleet will sail to the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Australia/New Zealand and Southeast Asia. To celebrate Christmas, the Love Boats are trimmed from stem to stern in festive holiday decor with Christmas trees, wreaths, holly and mistletoe. It's not uncommon to see Yuletide carolers strolling the decks singing favorite holiday tunes, and passengers can enjoy themed production shows during the voyage. A special Christmas dinner is also offered, which includes such traditional favorites as roast turkey, plum pudding and Christmas yule logs. Both a midnight mass and inter-denominational church service are held. But the festivities are not limited to adult activity. Princess' holiday children's program offers a wide array of activities including arts and crafts classes for Christmas ornaments used later to decorate the ship's Christmas tree, sing-a-longs and parties. Youngsters can also participate in an endearing production of "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" or other popular holiday tales, performed for all passengers. On Christmas day, a surprise appearance by Santa Claus bearing gifts for each child onboard is a memorable highlight. To ring in the new year, a New Year's Eve party complete with music, confetti, noise-makers and champagne will be in full swing aboard each Princess ship. These parties range from casual to black-tie affairs, depending on the ship and itinerary. "Since kids are out of school this time of the year, many families choose to take a cruise to celebrate holidays," said Rick James, Princess' senior vice president of sales and corporate relations. "We've found that these passengers take a cruise as a relaxing escape from the bustle and busyness that normally accompanies the holiday period. And getting away from it all at sea has become an attractive alternative to a stay-at-home celebration. "Besides, more affordable rates, the lure of a stress-free vacation, and the fact that parents can bring the kids along for a great holiday make it more enticing than ever," he added. Some Princess ships offer separate Christmas and New Year's cruises while other itineraries include both holidays on the same sailing. Cruises range from seven to sixteen days to the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Australia/New Zealand and Southeast Asia. Further information, schedules and pricing are available from a professional travel agent, and brochures can be obtained by calling 800-LOVE-BOAT. Bed and Breakfast Inns |
|