Rhine River Wine Cruise - Fall 2022

Fairytale castles, historic vineyards, charming villages, rich history, spectacular panoramas, majestic mountain landscapes...

all this and more could be yours for making some fabulous memories when you join us for a Rhine river wine cruise adventure. October/November 2022. Pre-cruise stay in Amsterdam and/or Post-cruise stay in Lake Como also available.

Limited rooms are available. Save $1,000 per person when you book before July 31, 2021. Message me for details and pricing.

Emerald & Scenic Return to the rivers of Europe This Summer!

Hello Europe...we've missed you! River cruising resumes next month...how about some great discoveries on the Douro this summer? Both Emerald Cruises and Scenic Cruises are returning to the rivers of Europe in July. Contact me to explore availability with either of these sister lines.

MORE Big News About Europe!

More European River Cruises are Returning to Service in 2021 

AmaWaterways today announced its plans to return to the rivers of Europe resuming sailings onboard select ships beginning July 3, 2021, in Portugal.

Specific sailing dates are as follows:

o July 3rd, AmaDouro will commence sailings through Portugal

o July 21st, AmaMagna will commence sailings on the Danube River
o July 22nd, AmaKristina will commence sailings in France on the Rhône River
o July 22nd, AmaLyra will commence sailings in France on the Seine River
o July 27th, AmaVida will commence sailings in Portugal and Spain
o July 29th, AmaDolce will commence sailings through Bordeaux, France

o July 29th, AmaSiena will commence sailings on the Rhine River

BIG NEWS ABOUT EUROPE! River Cruises resuming THIS JULY

 This summer, Europe’s rivers will be open for exploration again!

Viking has announced a return to sailing in Europe THIS JULY. You can reserve a voyage along the waterways of Europe and marvel at iconic cities and legendary landmarks in comfort onboard their iconic longships. These highly anticipated summer departures to Germany, France, Portugal, and beyond will sell fast, so call us today to reserve your stateroom.

FEATURED VOYAGES include:

• Portugal’s River of Gold: 10 DAYS | Lisbon to Porto
• Rhine Getaway: 8 DAYS | Amsterdam to Basel
• Paris & the Heart of Normandy: 8 DAYS | Paris to Paris
• Lyon & Provence: 8 DAYS | Avignon to Lyon
• France’s Finest: 15 DAYS | Paris to Avignon

Respond with your interest here, and I'll help you find the availability and get you booked:

NEW for 2022! ZERO Supplement Solo Suites on Crystal River Cruises

Calling all solo travelers! Crystal Mozart, Europe’s most spacious river ship invites you to cruise the Danube in 2022 in one of 38 newly dedicated Solo Suites with zero single supplements on all voyages – an industry first. Beginning in Spring 2022, the all-suite, butler-serviced ship will cruise weekly from Vienna roundtrip on a 7-night Danube Dreams & Discoveries itinerary featuring overnights in the Austrian capital and Budapest trip to Salzburg from Linz, daytime cruising through the Wachau Valley and more.

From Michelin-inspired cuisine to unparalleled enrichment both aboard and     ashore, the Crystal River Experience is unrivaled among European river lines as shown here. Crystal Mozart will cruise at a reduced capacity with the highest crew-to-guest ratio of any ship on Europe’s waterways, further elevating Crystal’s genuine hospitality. At 219 square feet, Crystal Mozart’s Solo Suites are up to 56% larger than comparable guest rooms on the rivers of Europe, a tempting opportunity for you to relax and discover the joys of cruising with Crystal. 

 

Have You Experienced a River Cruise Yet?

 

River cruising is an excellent way to explore a destination and really experience the heart of it all!  You'll discover the culture in each locale, see the sights, and enjoy the amazing local cuisine. Plus you can explore on your own during port stops, or join the included guided tours. There's a unique adventure awaiting you on the great rivers of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. From the enchanting Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Danube, and Duoro rivers; to the timeless wonders of the Mekong, Nile, and Amazon; or the mighty Mississippi, Snake, and Columbia rivers; amazing itineraries and immersive experiences are yours for the asking.  Check out this video to learn more, and then reach out and let's chat about the itinerary that's best for you.  And if you have friends or family that want to sail with you, we can easily turn it into a group! 

 

Happy March! Where Will Your Next Adventure Take You?

It's March, and here are some fabulous things to consider for your next vacation. I'd be happy to help you score some of these great experiences!

FEATURED OFFERS:

Celebrity Cruises - Choose from the lowest available fare with a non-refundable deposit or two free perks, including onboard credit, beverage packages, and more

Sandals Resorts - Save up to 65% when you book a minimum of 3 nights

AMA Waterways - Enjoy up to $2,000 in savings, up to $100 onboard credit, and a complimentary stateroom upgrade or prepaid gratuities on select sailings

Reach out and let's chat. clingren@cruiseplanners.com | 317.776.1733 | www.icanshowyoutheworld.vacations

#morethanjustcruises #takethetrip #makememories #itstimetoplanyournextadventure #useatravelprofessional

Disney Cruise Line Returns to Greece in Summer 2021 and Offers an Exciting Array of Additional Itineraries for Families

 In summer 2021, Disney Cruise Line will sail a variety of itineraries around the world including a return to Greece – back by popular demand – and exciting and varied European destinations, Alaska ports, and tropical locales. Plus, Disney Cruise Line will visit three first-time ports of call in Greece, Sweden, and Norway.

 

Explore the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Beyond

In summer 2021, a new collection of itineraries is part of Disney Cruise Line’s grand tour of Europe. From May through July, the Disney Magic will visit captivating locales in the Mediterranean including the Greek Isles, Spain, and the French Riviera. From late July through September, the ship will transport guests to bucket-list destinations in the British Isles, northern Europe, the Baltic, Iceland, and Norwegian fjords.

The Disney Magic will return to the awe-inspiring beauty of Greece in summer 2021, where guests can marvel at the stunning landscapes and archeological wonders of the region, like Santorini with its iconic whitewashed cliffside dwellings and Mykonos with beautiful beaches along the azure Aegean Sea. Four special voyages departing from Rome will visit the Greek Isles, with cruises ranging from eight to 11 nights.

 

Each of these unique Mediterranean itineraries combines a selection of stops in Greece with visits to other notable cities in the region. Noteworthy ports of call in Greece include Katakolon near ancient Olympia – home to the first Olympic Games – and the gorgeous Greek island of Kefalonia, the first-time port of call for Disney Cruise Line.

Another itinerary highlight is a visit to the picturesque Sicilian harbor city of Messina, where guests can sample tantalizing, locally grown citrus fruits and delectable olives. One cruise features a stop at the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The walled medieval Old City of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers spectacular seaside views and centuries-old cobblestoned lanes to explore.

Additional first-time ports of call for Disney Cruise Line include the medieval city of Visby, Sweden, considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Scandinavia, and the village of Eidfjord, Norway, home to geographic wonders and situated at the foot of Hardangervidda, Norway’s largest national park.

Adventures in Alaska 

The Disney Wonder will return to Alaska for the 2021 summer season to explore the region’s breathtaking natural vistas, glaciers, and wildlife.

Departing from Vancouver, Canada, seven-night itineraries will visit Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Dawes Glacier. One nine-night Alaskan adventure will visit Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Juneau, and Ketchikan. A special five-night cruise will travel to Dawes Glacier and Ketchikan.

 

 

Each Alaska sailing will offer adventure and fun in port and aboard the ship, with stunning scenery, exciting Port Adventures, and special Disney Cruise Line touches that will bring the splendor and spirit of “The Last Frontier” to life onboard.

Tropical Vacations to the Caribbean and Bahamas 

In summer 2021, Disney Cruise Line will embark on a variety of vacation voyages to tropical destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas. Ranging from three- to nine-night sailings, the varied itineraries allow guests to experience charming island cultures, sunbathe on golden beaches and revel in local marketplaces. Most itineraries include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

 

In addition to seven-night eastern and western Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, near Orlando, Florida, and the Walt Disney World® Resort, the Disney Fantasy will embark on an assortment of itineraries throughout the summer of 2021. These include a six-night sailing and an extended nine-night Caribbean cruise. Three-, four- and five-night Bahamian cruises round out the Disney Fantasy summer season – all including a stop at Castaway Cay. One special five-night cruise features two stops at Disney’s private island.

The Disney Dream will provide even more opportunities for guests to visit Castaway Cay in the summer of 2021 with all three- and four-night Bahamian cruises calling on the private island paradise.

 

When To Book Summer 2021 Itineraries 

Platinum, Gold, or Silver Castaway Club members, can take advantage of the opportunity to book summer 2021 itineraries before they go on sale to the general public on February 27, 2020.  Reach out to us today to be added to the list for booking when your Castaway Club level is eligible!

• February 25, 2020: Platinum Members 

• February 26, 2020: Platinum and Gold Members 

• February 27, 2020: Platinum, Gold, and Silver Members 

• February 28, 2020: all Guests 

Guided Experiences with Adventures by Disney

In summer 2021, Disney Cruise Line guests can enrich their cruise vacation with a variety of add-on packages from Adventures by Disney, a leader in family-guided group vacations. Highlights include a return to Alaska and popular packages in northern Europe and the Mediterranean. 

With Adventures by Disney, guests can book the ultimate Disney cruise experience on select sailings in Alaska and Europe. Throughout the voyage, knowledgeable Adventure Guides provide dedicated service both onboard and in port, as they lead guests on specially curated excursions, interactive activities, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Onboard the ship, guests enjoy unique experiences and premium amenities exclusive to Adventures by Disney, such as an intimate talkback session with Walt Disney Theatre cast members followed by a behind-the-scenes costume and prop activity.

Adventures by Disney also offer popular pre-cruise vacations in Rome; London; Barcelona, Spain; and Copenhagen, Denmark. These two- to three-night Escapes feature unforgettable experiences in iconic cities, such as a private guided tour to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Rome. Plus, activities like flamenco dancing, mosaic making, and preparing local cuisine immerse families in the culture of each region.

Bookings for these Adventures by Disney offerings open to the public on Feb. 27, 2020. 

 

 

Reach out to us today to include your name on the list for any of these exciting voyages!  317.776.1733

Discover Viking Cruises - Cruise Night Event In April

 Join us to discover why Viking has been voted the #1 River Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler readers, and rated Best for River Cruises by Cruise Critic members.

 

Traveling by river, beyond the reach of roadways, you will discover the true nature of fascinating lands and the people who call them home. You will travel with ease, unpacking just once and enjoying the ever-changing scenery along the banks as you are gently carried on board an elegant, intimate ship to your next destination. Here is just a small sample of where a Viking river cruise will take you:

• Vienna’s elegant boulevards and Hapsburg treasures
• Budapest’s historic Castle District
• The lush vineyards of France
• Storybook villages and hilltop castles of Germany
• The charming windmills of The Netherlands
• Glittering palaces of St. Petersburg, Russia
• Germany’s spectacular Saxon Switzerland region
• Portugal’s rolling vineyards of the Douro Valley
• Ancient temples along Egypt’s timeless Nile River
• China’s breathtaking Three Gorges of the Yangtze
• Cambodia’s sprawling Angkor Wat complex
• Vietnam’s lush and fertile Mekong Delta

 

Enjoy some wine and lite refreshments while together we discover what makes Viking a great choice for you to journey into the heart of Europe, Russia, Asia, Egypt, and beyond on a culturally immersive scenic cruise. 

Special promotional offers will be available for those who attend. 

 

RSVP REQUIRED.   Seats are limited.  

 

 

 

 

 

An Invitation to my Viking Cruises Presentation

Come spend some time with me in January learning about Viking, who has been voted the #1 River Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler. We'll explore their river and ocean cruise itineraries, and have some promotional offers just for attendees. Register for your complimentary tickets today.

It's Been a Full Day!

 

It was a very long day here in NYC booking great vacations for people! Hot topics of the day included Alaska, Bermuda, Sandals resorts, and European River cruises. I'm excited with the results thus far and looking forward to another great day tomorrow. After the show, it was great to eat in one of my favorite places here in the city - Junior's Restaurant, where I enjoyed an enormous roast beef sandwich. After such a big meal, the cool night air feels great as I walk back to my hotel for a little rest before the show starts again tomorrow. Good night from Times Square!

Chicago Travel Show Has Been So Busy!!

Time for another great day at the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show! Cuba, Europe, Cruises, Walt Disney World, and Hawaii, plus a Destination Wedding were all the hot topics yesterday...excited to learn where else I can send today's guests. If you're local, come see us! Next weekend is New York City. It's (always) the vacation booking season!

Tips on Thursday - Your Travel Professional, a Trusted, Best No-Cost Asset for your Travel Needs

Your Trusted Travel Professional – Your Best No-Cost Asset for Cruise Booking

When booking a cruise, the cost should be the same to you whether you book it directly with the cruise line or through a travel agent.  The perception that travel agents cost more persists - that they have large service fees, or that they will steer you to the cruise line they prefer instead of what is best for you. But that perception is truly an incorrect one.  While those things are possible, most travel agents, especially ones that specialize in personalized service and have a track record of satisfied clients, will simply give you exemplary service at no extra cost to you.  The reason is that travel agents survive on repeat business.  Their primary concern is YOUR satisfaction with the cruise vacation that you purchase through them.  If they steer you to the wrong cruise line for you, you won't return to them the next time you’re ready to go cruising.  Or if you find later on that you could have gotten the cruise for less you won't return to them.  Regardless of whether you purchase your cruise vacation directly from the cruise line or through a travel agent, the cost you pay should be the same as reputable travel agents don’t add fees on top of the cruise fare.  Ultimately travel agents will get paid, but the commission payment that they receive is the same amount that the cruise line would simply keep for themselves if you book directly with the cruise line.   

What advantages are there to using a travel agent? First and foremost a travel agent will be your advocate if anything goes wrong along the way.  If for some reason you miss a flight they will get on the phone to book a new one. Of if you have a dispute with the cruise line travel agents have a lot more pull to fix things than you do, because they do more volume buying with that cruise line.  And as a result of volume buying, travel agents can get discounts or other perks which they often pass on to you - depending on how loyal you become to them.  

Travel agents are there to help guide guests to the right ship and itinerary for them.  There are so many different cruise lines, with itineraries from ports all around the globe, it truly can be overwhelming trying to figure it all out.  Travel agents are well versed in the world that they sell, and are happy to help you make a decision on the sailing that will best suit your individual needs and desires.  Simply put, travel agents sell about 85% to 90% of all cruises because they know what they are doing. The cruise lines like it that way, because cruising is a complicated product to sell and the big lines don't have time for a lot of hand holding.  Websites are great, providing a lot of knowledge and information, but when push comes to shove when problems arise, websites and call centers will not provide the personal attention that YOU might need, but your travel agent will.  When you need to seek medical, legal or financial advice, you turn to your trusted professional in each respective field.  Why not be able to do the same when you need advice or help with your travel plans?

Tips on Thursday - Corporate Gatherings Onboard Ship

Corporate Gatherings Onboard Ship

When it comes to corporate gatherings, meetings or retreats, cruises offer the best overall value for businesses.  Whether simply organizing an annual meeting, offsite retreat, building an incentive for the sales team or designing a special event for the staff, partners or clients you simply cannot overlook the nearly all-inclusive nature of cruises.

Modern megaships provide so much!  They offer the perfect social environment for professional groups to mix and mingle; opportunities for your group to dine together in a gourmet restaurant; gather by the pool for sun and fun or other recreational activities; enjoy a Broadway-style show; comedy clubs and so much more.  Additionally, cruise ships provide those participants looking to break away from the official company action for a while can find solace on a secluded balcony, retreat to the spa, or enjoy a book in a well-appointed alcove.  And it doesn’t have to just be the employee either – many companies encourage their employees' families to come along too, especially since there are plenty of activities to entertain the spouse and kids onboard, including extensive youth programs run by trained counselors.

When it comes to booking, groups often get the best overall value, when planned well enough in advance, particularly when you factor in special group amenities like complimentary wine or champagne, shipboard credits, cocktail parties, chocolates, casino credits, spa services, and private gatherings.  Cruise lines will also work to brand your company's event at every opportunity with items such as ice sculptures of your corporate logo. For full charters, cruise lines will even let you set your own itinerary!

So what’s included on a group booking?   Typically, your group will receive:  

• Stateroom accommodations
• Gourmet dining
• Fitness center, exercise classes, spa
• Pool, water sports
• Transportation to interesting ports
• Access to business facilities and meeting rooms including small and large conference rooms with variable lighting and food & beverage services
• High-speed internet access
• Digital projectors
• Audio systems
• Showrooms for group presentations
• Informal gathering venues
• The planning process for all details
• Vegas- or Broadway-style shows
• Discos, clubs, bars
• Youth programs (as needed)
• Movies (theater and in-room)

Every corporate and incentive group must sign a contract with the cruise line that covers the prices, amenities, terms, and conditions for their group booking. Cruise Planners’ industry standing provides you with strong buying power and access to competitive rates on every ship which enables us to negotiate the best contract on your behalf.   We succeed when you succeed, and are here to make sure that your corporate group function comes together as easily as possible.  But know that all successful corporate and incentive groups require the involvement of a dedicated travel manager within the company working together with your Cruise Planners travel consultant.  This professional is responsible for designing the meetings and events the company desires onboard and communicating booking details like the payment process, documentation requirements, and dining requests to all participants.  Together we’ll make your event a knockout success! 

For more information about how you might take your company's next gathering out to sea call 855.776.1733 or submit a request at: www.neverlandadventurestravel.com or www.neverlandadventurescruises.com.  Be sure to follow me on Twitter, like my page on Facebook, circle me on Google+, and pin me on Pinterest. 

Tips on Thursday - Top 10 Reasons to Take a Cruise

Stopher's Top 10 Reasons Why You Ought to Take a Cruise for Your Next Vacation

1. Choose to cruise for VALUE. One price buys your cabin, dining, entertainment and more.
2. Choose to cruise for ROMANCE. Secluded beaches, en suite dining on a balcony overlooking the ocean and spa services for two are just some of the romantic pursuits available.
3. Choose to cruise for CUISINE. Tantalize your taste buds with gourmet fare that showcases exotic ingredients, old standbys like pizza and ice cream or spa cuisine for a healthy alternative. Depending on your mood, dine in a traditional ballroom setting, a small bistro or a casual eatery.
4. Choose to cruise for VARIETY. With over 200 distinctive ships, 3000 ports-of-call and an unbelievable array of places to see and things to do, there is a perfect cruise for you. For even more choice, consider a pre- or post-land tour.
5. Choose to cruise for ACTIVITIES. Fill your days with sightseeing, sports activities, cultural lectures, educational tours led by naturalists and historians or simply lounge by the pool and relax. At night, enjoy dance extravaganzas, musical revues, gaming or a quiet evening gazing at the stars.
6. Choose to cruise for SIMPLICITY. Don't come back from your vacation needing a vacation. Planning a cruise is simple; your CLIA-affiliated travel agency can handle all of the details. Once you're on board, nearly all expenses are pre-paid... talk about hassle-free.
7. Choose to cruise for NEW HORIZONS. Fall asleep in one destination and awake to a new horizon... and you only have to pack and unpack once!
8. Choose to cruise for FAMILY. Families love cruising. Children's programs, kid-friendly menus and tours of the ship will keep your children happy, while affording you some time alone.
9. Choose to cruise for PAMPERING. Regardless of your budget, all cruise lines pamper their guests with first-class service around the clock.
10. Choose to cruise for SATISFACTION. It's a fact that cruises have a higher percentage of satisfied customers than any other vacation experience.

Tips on Thursday - How to Get the Best Cruise Vacation Deal

Should I wait to book my cruise? 

Well that depends on you. Do you have the luxury of traveling at the last minute? If not, contact your local cruise agent and book well in advance. This will assure you the best cabin at the best rate available. That doesn’t mean that the cruise rate won’t change; but if you are dealing with a good agent, they will guarantee to change your rate if the cruise line adjusts the prices prior to final payment.

How do I know if I am dealing with a good agent?
Check out the company you are dealing with – try using one that has a good reputation or touts they are “Top Producers” with the cruise line of your choice. This typically means that they have buying power and will have special pricing or amenities available.

When is the best time to travel?
If you are traveling to any exotic port, there are usually softer booking periods in which pricing can be hundreds of dollars lower. For example, if you are sailing to Alaska – book in May or September and your savings will be substantial. Caribbean is dirt cheap in the fall – it’s so inexpensive, it’s almost free. Well, maybe not, but it can be less than $100 dollars per day which is cheaper than staying home. Again, choose a reputable, knowledgeable agent who can guide you to these savings.

How do I find the best cruise deals?
Ask your travel agent if they send out weekly specials. Most competent agents send out a weekly e-mail promotion. This will give you a heads up when they have special cruise deals. In other words, agents regularly have access to cruise line promotions that include: shipboard credit, cabin category upgrades, reduced payment deposits, coupon booklets for onboard savings, and even free gratuities. But you will miss the deal, if you don’t know about it.

Tips on Thursday - Riding the Wave

Welcome to wave season - the best time to book your next cruise vacation. It happens every year. Between January through the end of March, all the cruise lines offer their very best deals of the year on cruises to just about every corner of the globe. There are some outstanding early booking incentives and extras that can vary from cruise line to cruise line. Some of the most common of the incentives include:

• Special Pricing
• Extra Value Offers
• On-Board Credits
• Cabin Upgrades (usually within the same category)
• Reduced Deposits
• On-Board Coupon Booklets

Family summer vacation to the Caribbean on Royal Caribbean, sure why not? River cruise through Paris and Normandy, no problem. Cruise through the Mediterranean on the coolest ship ever, Norwegian Epic we’ve got it! Anniversary trip to a long dreamed about trek down under to Australia or New Zealand on Princess Cruises? OK! Taking a trek to the great northern wonderland of Alaska with Disney? No problem. 

If you haven't already received the January issue of the Cruise Planner Magazine, visit my website today to be sure and sign up for the next issue coming out in July. It's packed full of Wave Season specials that will get you thinking about your next vacation. And until then, why not sign-up for my weekly ePostcard, using the special "Travel Deals" green box here, which will provide 4-6 exclusive offers and discounts directly to your email's inbox each week. You never know when inspiration will strike and the sea calls you. Why not be ready to answer the call and this question:

Where would you like to go?

Magical Mondays - River Cruising: The Pros About Going Small

River cruising is a HOT new way to explore, since nothing quite compares with the river. Where else but on the river can you journey into the heart of the world’s greatest cities and towns, and discover the true nature of the land? Comfortable and convenient, river cruises offer a greater variety of destinations than you could encounter any other way. Spend less time getting there and more time being there. Little wonder that river cruising is the fastest-growing segment of the travel industry.  With River Cruising, you get up close and personal on the rivers of Europe, China & Egpyt.

For those only familiar with the rules of big ships, here are three reasons riverboat fanatics come back, time and again, for more.

Dinner
Forget buffet dining with 2,000 strangers. River cruises average about 200 passengers per boat, so the waitstaff will likely know your name by the end of the first meal (and so will your fellow travelers).

Evening Entertainment
Instead of dance clubs, karaoke, and glitzy Vegas-style reviews, nightlife on river cruises trends toward string quartets, guest lectures on regional history, and staring out at actual scenery, not just a watery horizon.

Extra Costs
The dirty little secrets of ocean cruises? They always charge extra for excursions, and beer and wine costs are on par with pro sports arenas. River cruise lines opt for flat fees up front.

River cruising is such a fast-growing trend that there are twice as many new river ships debuting in 2012 than there are traditional big ships. In fact, Viking River is building 6 new ships to accommodate the demand. I for one thought that this was for the older generation but I was completely wrong in more ways than one. This new way to cruise is for the adventurous. You are docked right into the heart of the city. You walk on cobblestones. You are eating pho, knockwurst and other traditional foods. You are there to really experience the cultures and sounds of the world.  This is for the “Bucket List” crowd. 

If you would like to learn more about river cruising, let me know, and I'd be happy to discuss ships, itineraries and more with you.