Harmony of the Seas Balcony Cabin 14146 Video Tour

We thought the balcony cabin was a little more spacious than typical balcony cabins as you’ll see in the video.

This video shows you how convenient the forward deck 14 cabins are for those who’d like to spend a lot of their cruise relaxing in the Solarium.

Harmony of the Seas Suite Videos

Similar to her sister ships the Oasis & Allure, the suites on the Harmony of the Seas come in several varieties.  My two favorite are the Aquatheatre Suites & the Sky Loft Suites.  I was able to tour both so I could share the video tours of both variations of Harmony of the Seas Suites.

Sky Loft Suite Video Tour on the Harmony of the Seas:

Aquatheatre Suite Video Tour on Harmony of the Seas:

Harmony of the Seas Grand Suite Video Tour

I’ve uploaded my best photos from the Harmony of the Seas inaugural on Flickr.  Click Here to view photos.

Photo of the Sky Loft Suite

Here are our 5 top highlights of the Culinary & Wine Cruise:

The Luxurious Brand New Star Legend
The luxury of this trip doesn’t solely exist at the beautiful ports of call of this excursion- the ship itself boasts enough amenities to make every guest feel like a VIP. All guests will be welcomed aboard the brand new Star Legend yacht with a cocktail reception as they make their way to their luxurious staterooms outfitted with fresh flowers and fruit, flat screen TVs, a fully-stocked minibar and plush robes and slippers for guests to enjoy. Aboard the Star Legend, guests will have access to all dining venues at all times, including room service available 24 hours as well as pre-dinner wine tastings with cheese and tapas every night. Guests will also have unlimited access to the state-of-the-art fitness center and water sports equipment.

Explorations in Portugal
Your journey begins in the wonderful city of Lisbon where you can roam the cobblestone sidewalks as you take in the scenic hills and unparalleled architecture before you board the Star Legend. As you arrive in the beautiful hill city of Porto on day two, you’ll have the opportunity to taste port wine while you explore the medieval alleyways. You will also have your choice of excursion tours of all kinds including a private car tour, a bus tour or a tour of the city in a tuk-tuk. You will then head back onboard at the end of the day where you can enjoy a live fado folk music performance.

Tours in Spain
As a guest aboard the Culinary & Wine Yacht Cruise you will spend a day in El Ferrol, Spain. The impressive bay of El Ferrol is home to several beautiful, relaxing white-sand beaches, including San Jorge and Cobas. Because of its long-time existence as a major naval shipbuilding center, El Ferrol’s architecture is heavily military, the best example of which is the El Ferrol Arsenal, proposed to be declared a World Heritage Site. There are other attractions in this coastal port whose charm can be found in the streets around the harbor which are lined with grand terraced homes, the modernist La Magdalena neighborhood, El Ferrol old town, and the 16th century Castle of San Felipe. Not to be missed is the pagan Chapel of the Virgin Chamorro, to worship the prehistoric stones, Castle La Palma and the 18th century, 1,640-foot long La Cortina defensive city walls.

Complimentary Destination Discovery Event
[Exclusive to Cruise Specialists] Every guest along the journey of the Culinary & Wine Yacht Cruise will be treated to a complimentary excursion in Bordeaux, France where they will take a ride through the French countryside while taking in the magnificent sights of the estates and vineyards. Upon arriving at the private chateau, everyone will be greeted with a glass of wine before taking a guided tour through the wine cellars. They will then have the opportunity to learn about French cuisine while enjoying appetizers, fine wine, and live classical music.

Expeditions in France
The last four days of your trip will be spent in the country known for its wine production, France.
You will start your French journey in Bordeaux, home to over 350 historic monuments and some of France’s most famous vineyards. The excursions in Bordeaux include the aforementioned wine tasting. But you will also have your pick from hiking to vineyard tours and even cooking classes- your options in Bordeaux are endless. Your next stop in the beautiful port city of La Rochelle will satisfy all your senses from the breathtaking landscapes to the smells of the aging barrels of wine to the delicious cuisine- not a single passenger will leave this city disappointed.

By Raphaël Chekroun

As your last stop in France, you will move on to Saint-Malo, which was once known as being home to pirates. Here you will see wonderful architecture, taste some of the best oysters in the world and learn about one of the great religious sites in all of Europe. Saint-Malo is the best way to end your French excursion before you head off to Dublin to end your journey!

For more information on the Culinary & Wine Yacht Cruise from Portugal to Dublin that will capture the heart of any wine lover, click here.

1. Paul Gauguin Tahiti & Society Islands 7-Night Cruise

This exquisite land and sea package features a two-night stay at either the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa or InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa as well as a roundtrip voyage from Papeete, Tahiti. As you sail across the crystal blue waters, you will experience the French Polynesian Islands of Bora Bora, Moorea and Huahine.

Photo by Marty B on Flickr

Imagine experiencing the ultimate state of relaxation aboard the award-winning m/s Paul Gauguin while looking out at the volcanic mountains of Moorea. The breathtaking views don’t stop in Moorea, the island of Huahine has magnificent views with its untouched landscape of green forests. Bora Bora is a change of pace for passengers due to its sandy beaches and tropical atmosphere. You will also get to experience Paul Gauguin Cruises’ own private islet where you can enjoy paddle boarding, snorkeling and kayaking.

It’s the perfect escape from everyday life and an experience to treasure for a lifetime.

Click here to learn more!

2. Holland America 53-Day Tales of the South Pacific

Explore the Tales of the South Pacific on this 53-day cruise aboard the incredible m/s Amsterdam. Unlike anything you’ve experienced before, this cruise will take you to the Hawaiian Islands, across the equator to explore islands in the South Pacific, and round up the trip in the French Polynesian Islands.

Departing on September 25, 2016, from Seattle, WA, you will begin your journey with quick stops in Vancouver and San Diego. From there, the m/s Amsterdam will take you to explore the Hawaiian Islands, such as Kona, Kauai and Hilo. You can spend your days sunbathing or watching for dolphins and whales, then spend your nights gazing at the brilliant night sky.

From Hawaii, you will cross the equator and explore islands in the South Pacific, including Pago Pago, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Niue, and the Cook Islands. You will have the option to take private tours, relax on the beach, go to the spa, snorkel, explore waterfalls and enjoy other fun adventures all while taking in the breathtaking landscapes.

You will end this spectacular trip with a relaxing nine days in the French Polynesian Islands, Bora Bora and Papeete where you will have a wide variety of activities and excursions whether you want to stay occupied with something fun or stay calm with something relaxing.

On November 11, you will cross the equator once again, and arrive in San Diego on November 17. Experience more of what this region has to offer with this once in a lifetime cruise.

Click here to learn more!

3. Oceania Sirena 12-Day South Pacific Cruise

An unforgettable adventure awaits as you embark on the newly-refurbished m/s Sirena. You will explore the French Polynesian Islands, port at a number of destinations and observe scenery unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

The m/s Sirena features luxurious suites and staterooms with private verandas. It also offers everything from fine-dining to made-to-order American favorites- there is something to please everyone’s taste buds. After enjoying an excursion or relaxing in the sun all day, you can enjoy wine tasting, visit the library, play golf or relax at the spa.

Departing Papeete, Tahiti, on February 4, 2017, your first stop will be at the beautiful island of Moorea where adventure awaits you with snorkeling, canoeing through the lagoon or an Afareaitu Waterfalls hike.

Other stops along the cruise include Raiatea, where you’ll be greeted by the warm scent of vanilla plantations as you explore the island by visiting a pearl farm or kayaking down Faaroa River. In Bora Bora, known as the most romantic island in the world, you can swim with manta rays or observe the beautiful array of coral as you canoe through the lagoon. You will have plenty to do at the Nuku Hiva port with it being home to the Vaipo Waterfalls and the Cascade Tavalpo, one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, and the black sand beaches. The lavish cruise returns to Papeete the morning of February 16.

To request a quote, click here!

4. Crystal Cruises 11-Day Isle of the South Pacific Cruise

A winter cruise aboard the Crystal Symphony from Papeete, Tahiti, to Auckland, New Zealand, is just as luxurious as it sounds. Departing December 9, 2016, you will be just as entertained onboard as you are at the ports with the many entertainers, production shows, special interest lectures, interactive classes and all the food and drink options one could ever imagine.

You will start by cruising from Papeete to the Cook Islands where you will enjoy one of the world’s best beaches. You will spend a day in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, where you can choose whether to visit historic sites, Houma Blowholes, the Liku’Alofa Beach or all of the above. Next, you will be able to visit Lautoka, Fiji where you can revel in the mud pools, hot springs or snorkeling adventures. The last stop is in Waitangi, Bay of Islands, New Zealand and you will then dock on the morning of December 21 in Auckland, New Zealand.

Relaxing on the incredible m/s Crystal Symphony and taking in breathtaking views makes this cruise a spectacular experience.

Click here to request a quote!

5. Windstar 7-Day Dreams of Tahiti Cruise

Set sail on the fabulous m/s Wind Spirit for seven days of sun, water fun and incredible sights. Onboard the m/s Wind Spirit, you’ll enjoy a complimentary barbecue, live entertainment and luxurious staterooms and suites. Sail, swim or kayak using the yacht’s Watersports Platform throughout the cruise.

There will be six stops at Tahitian islands along the journey of this relaxing vacation. You’ll depart from Papeete, Tahiti, and explore the land and sea of Moorea by hiking and scuba diving, visit black pearl farms in Raiatea and relax in the lagoons in Bora Bora. You will experience crystal blue waters that are ideal for drift snorkeling at almost every stop. Finally, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the agricultural wonder that is the island of Huahine before returning back to Papeete.

The exquisite cruise and adventurous excursions are the perfect combination to pause and enjoy all the French Polynesian has to offer.

By Roderick Eime on Flicker

Click here to learn more!

The mission of Silversea Cruises has always been to bring guests together in the most sumptuous way. The Silver Muse is a boutique ship where everybody feels at ease. The luxury liner allows people with similar tastes, experience and desires from around the world to gather in one place with one goal: to enjoy themselves and relax while basking in an experience of a lifetime.

Bigger is not always better. The Silver Muse was not created to be the biggest ship on the seas. Instead, the focus is on providing an ideal balance between the number of guests and the amenities on board the vessel. This tailor-made ship will accommodate just under 600 guests, making it small enough for travelers to feel like they’re in an intimate environment but large enough so they’re never lacking opportunities for new experiences.

Silversea Silver Muse Suites

The Silver Muse is an all-suite ship. Every cabin is extravagantly appointed to make guests feel as though they have all the comforts of their dream home at their fingertips. Nothing is spared in the interior decorating; the furnishings and textiles have classic yet clean lines and are paired tastefully with the unique, magnificent artwork that adorns the walls. The Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers are of the highest quality and encourage guests to savor every moment, even overnight. The marble bathrooms are stunning and include showers with separate full-sized tubs. There’s so much room in your sleeping area, sitting area and bathroom that you’ll almost forget you’re on a ship.

Care is taken to provide every detail to make sure guests have everything they need. A dedicated butler service ensures that you don’t have to think twice about being taken care of. The refrigerator and bar in your suite will be stocked with your preference of snacks and beverages, and a pillow menu is provided. Stay connected with free WiFi and an interactive media library.

Some of the suites offer multiple bedrooms and a separate dining area. In these vast expanses of indulgence, you can be entertained with extravagance. If your idea of perfection is relaxing with a flute of champagne or enjoying a gourmet breakfast with the green sea outside, you’ll find no expense is spared in the Silver Muse suites.

Although it’s difficult to choose, perhaps the most breathtaking aspect of the suites on the Silver Muse is the fact that each one has a private teak veranda. Whether you’re lounging indulgently on a sofa gazing out the floor-to-ceiling glass doors or sitting out in the fresh air, you’ll be fascinated by every sunset from your own private paradise.

Silversea Silver Muse Dining

Dining aboard the Silver Muse is an experience in itself. Eight restaurants celebrate the best of the world’s freshest cuisine. Atlantide merges the ocean’s finest offerings with astonishingly decadent herbs and aromatics. La Terrazza offers indoor and outdoor dining and Italian specialties, from a salumiera to family-style specials. For the finest white-glove French dining, guests will be enchanted at La Grande Dame by Relais & Châteaux, with astounding dishes crafted by chefs from the Relais & Châteaux team.

Nothing is ordinary on the Silver Muse. At Hot Rocks, guests can sear succulent meats and fish at their own tables using volcanic lava rocks during the evening and enjoy gourmet salads and burgers at lunch. Kabuki expertly melds teppanyaki cuisine with sushi and sashimi delicacies. Regina Margherita offers poolside dining at its finest, with an eclectic collection of casual pizzas.

Silversea Silver Muse 2017 Itineraries

Whether guests are aboard the ship or disembarking for onshore adventures, the Silver Muse allows them to experience the world like never before. In 2017, Silversea Cruises will be navigating to exotic areas of the globe.

Explore South America, leaving from tropical Florida and cruising to the bohemian seaside town of Valparaiso, Chile, with stops in other picturesque South American towns. If you’re into adventure, experience the majesty of the Chilean Fjords and cruise past impressive glaciers before dancing the night away in Buenos Aires, Argentina. To experience vibrant South American culture, leave Buenos Aires and head to Brazil, where you’ll take a helicopter journey to vivacious Rio de Janeiro.

Transoceanic cruises will set sail from historic Southampton, England and cross the Atlantic with an exhilarating four days at sea before disembarking across the ocean in Canada, where you can enjoy whale and bird watching on the pristine coast. The North American cruise takes you on a journey through time, from enthralling Nova Scotia to the historic and energetic towns of Boston, New York and Savannah, leaving you on the soft white shores of Florida.

If you’re looking for an emerald sea and a piña colada, the Caribbean cruises will allow you to treat yourself to the warm breezes of the islands. Explore the islands like a tourist or float along the coastline taking in the colorful wildlife – either way, you’ll return home refreshed and relaxed.

Several cruises around the Mediterranean and Amalfi Seas bring you to the sophisticated European coast to wine and dine like celebrities. Whether you cruise on the Silver Muse’s maiden voyage or find pleasure aboard one of the future journeys, you’ll enjoy the splendor and elegance of cities such as Monte Carlo, Nice and Istanbul.

If spellbinding luxury and stunning beauty are the trademarks of your dream vacation, then the Silver Muse will take your dreams to new heights. From winding through the open air passageways that seamlessly blend solitude with socializing to enjoying a cocktail in your private retreat, your every desire will be exceeded aboard the Silver Muse. Reserve your voyage today and sail toward an unparalleled excursion.

Asia River Cruising
18 Day Shanghai to Beijing River Cruises
Viking Emerald

Explore the amazing world of the Orient when you take a river cruise from Shanghai to Beijing. You will experience the picturesque beauty of the plants and wildlife along one of the most scenic areas in the world. You will also see things like the stone carvings of ancient Dazu, wild Giant Pandas, the Terra Cotta Warriors of Xian and the Great Wall of China.

You will board the Viking Emerald and experience 18 days with amenities that include complimentary drinks, free wifi, river-view staterooms, evening entertainment, incredible meals and cultural lectures regarding the local landmarks like the Three Gorges Dam and the traditional Chinese ceremonies.

You will also get the chance to experience things like 19 guided tours, the opportunity to visit six of the World Heritage Sites with UNESCO and plenty of amazing opportunities for photographs.

Fares begin at $5,442 and also include port charges and all meals.  Click Here to view Itinerary. 

Asia Ocean Cruising
14-Day Asia Cruise
Seabourn Sojourn
Departure 01/03/2016 | 01/17/2016 | 02/14/2016

Enjoy the picturesque views of the Orient when you sail along the coasts of Thailand and Vietnam as well as sailing in small yachts into Ho Chi Minh City. You will experience the diversity and cultural activity of the Indonesian Islands and get the chance to visit with the local citizens.

You will board the Seaborn Sojourn and enjoy 14 days of amazing scenic views as well as on-board amenities that include gourmet dining, an in-suite bar with complimentary champagne, large suites with panoramic views of the ocean, 24-hour dining either in the restaurants or in-suite, open bars throughout the ship and more.

The Asia Ocean Cruise also includes a cocktail reception and a $300 shipboard credit per suite. Fares begin at $5,999 per person.  Click Here to view Itinerary. 

Alaska Luxury Cruise
10-day San Francisco to Alaska Voyage
Oceania Cruise Regatta
Departure 05/10/2016

Explore the majestic wilderness of the Alaskan Coastline with a 10-day Alaska Luxury Cruise. You will have the chance to take once in a lifetime photographs of the scenic glaciers and maybe even get to see a brown bear or an American bald eagle. This is an experience you will be talking about for the rest of your life.

You will board the Oceania Cruises Regatta and enjoy on-board amenities that includes luxury staterooms, a world-class fitness center, on-board casino, open seating restaurants and eight different bars and lounges. The Regatta carries up to 684 passengers with 400 staff members to cater to you.

The Alaska Luxury Cruise will depart from San Francisco and sail up the Pacific coastline to the Hubbard Glacier, north of Juneau. The cruise includes trips to Astoria, Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan and Vancouver along the way. You will also experience a country club ambiance and spa treatments at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub.

Fares start at $2,799 per person and includes free airfare and free pre-paid gratuities and unlimited internet. Click here to view Itinerary. 

South Pacific Cruise
53 – Day South Pacific Cruise
Holland America ms Amsterdam
Departure 9/25/2016

Explore the incredible South Pacific islands like Bora Bora, Fiji, the Cook islands and more. You will be amazed at the scenic beauty of the South Pacific and get to meet the native people with excursions to various villages and towns along the way. You will also get to enjoy some time on the romantic Hawaiian Islands.

photo by Marc CARAVEO on flickr

You will board the Holland America ms Amsterdam in Seattle, Washington and begin your 53 day journey into paradise. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy on-board amenities such as a complimentary shore excursion, cocktail parties, a pinnacle grill lunch, commemorative gift and more.

Fares start at $6,699 and also include a voyage host and several opportunities for shopping along the way in stops such as French Polynesia, Fiji and Hawaii. Click Here to view Itinerary

14 Night Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro Voyage
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Departing: 12/9/2015

This 14-night Luxury Regent Cruise made our top adventure list because it includes a FREE 3-night Pre or Post Cruise stay in Rio de Janeiro or Cape Town, South Africa. This unique itinerary lets you explore two of the most exotic Continents in just 2 weeks.

In Cape Town, South Africa you board the first all-suite, all-balcony ship, Seven Seas Mariner® featuring four gourmet restaurants with open seating. Hallmarks include generous amenities and a welcome spaciousness. Catering to only 700 guests, her staff-to-guest ratio of 1 to 1.6 ensures the absolute highest level of personal service.

Fares begin at $6,799 and includes a cocktail party, free shore excursions, unlimited beverages, $800 shipboard credit per suite, PLUS much more. CLICK HERE to view itinerary.

14 Day Antarctica Expedition
National Geographic Explorer or National Geographic Orion
Departing 11/27/2016 – 2/05/2017

Experience the breath-taking wonders of the Antarctica up-close and personal as you explore the land at the bottom of the world. You will be able to experience first-hand the native wildlife like penguins, whales and even ice formations on an ice-class vessel that will put you in awe of this amazing place.

You will board either the National Geographic Explorer or the Orion, departing from Buenos Aires, Argentina or Santiago, Chile and spend the next 14 days exploring the incredible scenic views of the coast of Antarctica. Along the way, you will enjoy on-board amenities including unlimited drinks, complimentary meals, a fitness center and guided tours and excursions.

You will also experience opportunities to go snorkeling and board excursions on the Zodiac or by Kayak as well as spend a night in a hotel on the mainland, enjoy sightseeing activities and a lot more.

Fares begin at $13,360 and also includes your flight from the United States to your departure destination, an overnight hotel stay in your departure city prior to boarding the ship. Click here to view itinerary. 

Carolina Nightlife, AAT and CruiseDeals.com are teaming again for the largest 2016 College Spring Break Cruises.

Looking for a Spring Break Cruise LOADED with college students?  You found it!

The last 6 years, we’ve had the largest group of college students at sea.  Want to get an idea of how awesome the Spring Break Party Cruises are – See a few of the 2015 Spring Break Photos below.

2016 College Spring Break Cruises:
March 7th – 12th, 2016 or March 12th – 17th, 2016

Our college spring break cruise is on the LARGEST ship we’ve ever been on for the Carolina Nightlife Spring Break Party Cruise. Plus, we have an exclusive onboard host for even more fun.

The Independence of the Seas, if you stand the ship on its stern, would be taller than the Chrysler Building in New York or the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It also offers 22 bars, clubs, and lounges that never have a cover, including Boleros Latin-themed lounge. Let the fun begin!
Why You Want to Reserve your spot now:

#1 You know you want to go on an awesome Spring Break Cruise with your friends!

#2. The Carolina Nightlife Spring Break Cruises have their own reserved dining section that holds hundreds of college students.  We will sell out the section before December, so by booking early you are guaranteed to be dining with the largest group of college students.

#3. The last 4 years, this cruise has SOLD OUT…. you do not want to miss this boat!

#4 Refer to #3 and Book Here Spring Break Party Cruise

2015 Spring Break Party Cruise Photos

For the last 6 years, the Carolina Nightlife Spring Break Cruise has been the largest College Spring Break Group Cruise.  Here are just a few of the photos from last year:

Instagram Photos from 2015 Spring Break Party Cruise

Here are just a few of the over 250+ photos our 2015 Spring Breakers Posted to Instagram with the Hashtag #SpringBreakPartyCruise

When you lose yourself, you find the to paradise #springbreakpartycruise

A photo posted by Devon Hilliard (@devonhilliard) on Mar 12, 2015 at 7:59am PDT

Had a blast with the 394 crew! #SpringBreakPartyCruise A photo posted by @mikaylakress on Mar 12, 2015 at 3:49pm PDT

They say it’s lost… we proved them wrong #Atlantis #SpringBreakPartyCruise

A photo posted by Borko Genadiev (@mr.borko) on Mar 12, 2015 at 4:52pm PDT

Spring Breaking with all my favorites ☀️#SpringBreakPartyCruise A photo posted by Mary Elizabeth Warren (@itsmarywarren) on Mar 7, 2015 at 1:43pm PST

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ITINERARY & PRICING for the 2016 Spring Break Party Cruises.

Today, I found my new favorite… leave it to Surfing Magazine to create the best drone surfing video ever.

BTW, you do need not to be a surfing fan for this video to be worth every second of your time: 

Surfing Magazine Tahiti Surfing Video