Carnival goes south for first time
Carnival Cruise Lines for the first time plans to operate voyages to South America with 14-to-18-day departures and extended visits to Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador, Chile and Peru.
The voyages will be aboard the new 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor.
The cruise line says the ship will operate three special South America departures in 2009 — a 17-day, six-port cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jan. 31-Feb. 17; a 14-day, six-port voyage from Buenos Aires to Santiago (Valparaiso), Chile, Feb. 17-March 3, and an 18-day, six-port South America/Mexican Riviera cruise from Santiago (Valparaiso) to San Francisco March 3-21.
“South America is truly one of the world’s most beautiful cruising regions, with magnificent architecture, diverse cultures and cuisine, and a wide variety of unique shore excursion options,” said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.
Mr Dickinson noted that uniqueness of these South American cruises, combined with the amenities of an innovative brand new Carnival “Fun Ship,” is expected to appeal to both experienced and first-time cruisers.
The Carnival Splendor will introduce a new design and a host of guest-driven features that will include a 21,000-square-foot spa. Adjacent to the modern facility will be 68 spa staterooms and suites, which will be accessible by a private elevator and offer exclusive privileges and amenities for guests.
Other features include a 5,500-square-foot children’s play area – the largest in the Carnival fleet – as well as a water spray park and a mid-ship pool covered by a sliding Sky Dome.
The line’s signature amenities such as cell phone and Wi-Fi service, a reservations-only supper club and the Carnival Seaside Theatre – a massive LED screen displaying movies, concerts and other programming – will also be featured.
Report by David Wilkening
David
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