King's Seafood Company has evolved through over 70 years of family restaurant business experience. In 1945, Lou and Mickey King, Jeff and Sam King's respective fathers, began to build the King's Restaurant chain throughout Southern California. After a hugely successful run of almost 40 years, the family sold the chain of six restaurants to Tiny Naylor's, Inc. in 1982.
KIDS LOVE US
In 1945, Lou and Mickey King (Jeff and Sam King's respective fathers), began to build the King's Restaurant network throughout Southern California... We're convinced that wild fisheries are unable to meet the world’s growing demand for nutritious seafood. We're working with various stakeholders (from ocean science to seafood business to government) to better define “sustainability” in terms that respect the diversity of our Guests’ interests and priorities. Our Kids Menu features eight pages of activities, including temporary tattoos and stamps. A unique West Coast seafood experience, the Dungeness Crab are known for their sweet and delectable meat.
We're all about Family
As part of this transition, Sam went to work for Tiny Naylor’s and Jeff went to sit on the 1984 Olympic Committee which was to be hosted in Los Angeles. The Carriage Club, a restaurant in Long Beach, was on the market and Sam went with Tiny Naylor’s to look at the prospect of the space. He called Jeff and proposed they start their own venture and take over this location as their first project. Jeff agreed and they signed their first lease the day before Thanksgiving in 1983.
Smart Seafood from our Backyard: California Market Squid
Our restaurant concepts have proven stiff competition in a tough industry because they all work to fill a niche. We currently operate 23 restaurants with 6 different concepts in California, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, and Washington and we're growing! Our restaurant concepts include the Water Grill (7), Pier Burger, 555 East, Lou & Mickey's, Meat On Ocean, and the King's Fish House (12) establishments. In 1983, Jeff and Sam King signed their first lease together, and on the day before Thanksgiving, 6 weeks before the '84 Olympics, we opened our first concept, 555 East Steakhouse, and we still own and operate the restaurant today. King's Seafood is family owned and operated, and has been growing and evolving for over 70 years!
Six weeks before the 1984 Olympics, we opened our first concept, 555 East, and we still own and operate the restaurant today. At that time, our company was called University Restaurant Group, a name inspired by the ‘friendly’ rivalry of USC and UCLA, Sam and Jeff's respective alma maters, and we held that name until 1998. Since then they've proven to be successful operators, and they've cultivated the art of delivering a quality product and a great Guest experience in all economic environments. They learned a lot from their fathers and Sam and Jeff continue to teach, guide and lead us to great adventures. Their dedication and commitment to the industry, the product, and the people has resulted in a profitable, successful, and growing company.
Bar & Restaurant News
Pull up a chair and get those crab crackers ready to enjoy these delicious crustaceans. The Western Australian Rock Lobster (Panulirus cygnus) is found primarily on the West Coast of Australia. Not normally available in the United States as a live product, you’ll find them swimming in our saltwater tanks today, for a limited time. The world's largest species of flatfish is here, all the way from the central Gulf of Alaska! We offer several preparations during the season, including pan-seared, grilled and Macadamia nut-crusted Halibut. Make your Mother’s Day reservations for Sunday, May 12 and give mom the day she deserves - with the people and seafood she loves the most.
The Gossiping Gourmet: Keep it simple at King's Fish House - Los Angeles Times
The Gossiping Gourmet: Keep it simple at King's Fish House.
In addition, to our full menu, a special three-course Valentine’s Day menu will be available for $80, including a starter, an 8-oz. Filet Mignon and South African Lobster Tail with your choice of sides, and a dessert.
That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises. That's more than 11 times the cost of the least-expensive inside cabin (which was starting at $646 per person, based on double occupancy). Balcony cabins on the same sailing started at around $836 per person, based on double occupancy.
Best Things To Do in Athens, Greece, on Your Cruise Vacation
Alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic cocktails, bottled water, sparkling water, specialty coffees and teas, and fresh-squeezed juices are also not included in the cruise fare. Higher-tier loyalty guests also gain access to special onboard events and Crown & Anchor exclusive booking rates. Apart from the drink packages, Royal Caribbean also offers a la carte pricing for individual beverages. Guests can buy beer, wine, and cocktails at several bars and lounges spread across the ship. For a more indulgent beverage experience, Royal Caribbean provides a variety of drink packages purchasable before or during your cruise. These cover unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including mocktails, premium coffees and teas, fresh-squeezed juices, a complete selection of beers, fruit juices, and water.
What Things Do You Pay For On A Cruise?
The Refreshment Package suits those desiring a variety of non-alcoholic drinks, while the Deluxe Beverage Package caters to those who prefer an extensive range of alcoholic beverages. Star Class suites, exclusive to Oasis and Quantum class ships, offer a luxurious stay with numerous perks. Guests enjoy priority boarding, free VOOM wifi, all-inclusive specialty restaurants, and deluxe drink packages. Royal Caribbean provides a selection of beverages included in your cruise fare.
Unique Cruise Experience Extras on Icon of the Seas
Food is available 24 hours a day, and most of it is included in the price of the trip. In fact, many of the amenities onboard are complimentary for cruisers – but definitely not all of them. Royal Caribbean charges extra for many onboard services, from internet access to late-night babysitting. At least you don’t have to carry cash; many services may be charged to your Royal Caribbean account. Now that you know all of the wonderful entertainment, attractions, dining and more that is complimentary on Icon of the Seas, what is not included in your cruise fare?
Complimentary dining venues vary by ship, with Windjammer and the Main Dining Room open for breakfast, lunch and dinner on all ships, along with as many as five additional free options. Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is not complimentary with the cost of a Royal Caribbean cruise. While it does come with an extra charge for most guests, those staying in the Ben & Jerry’s Sweet suite on certain ships are given a voucher for free ice cream.
What is Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise Fare: What You Need To Know Before You Book
The most common one found across the fleet is Chops Grille, the line's signature steakhouse. Many ships also have an Italian eatery, called either Giovanni's Table or Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver. With each step-down in size, you'll find fewer restaurants, bars, entertainment offerings and attractions.
You’ll have access to various complimentary dining options, such as the main dining room, buffet, and casual eateries. Relaxation is a crucial part of any vacation, but spa and salon services onboard are not included in the cruise fare. Gratuities are not included in the cost of your Royal Caribbean cruise. However, Royal Caribbean offers guests the option to prepay gratuities before their cruise or to have them automatically added to their onboard account. The recommended gratuity amount varies depending on the length of your cruise and the type of stateroom you have booked.
Medical Services
So what is included on a cruise, and what do you pay extra for while onboard? These are not included in your cruise fare but can be purchased through a dining package for an additional cost. If you’re craving something more specific like soda, specialty coffees, or alcoholic beverages, those come at an additional cost. Quantum-class ships offer North Star, an aerial gondola that rises up to 300 feet above sea level for a bird’s eye view of the ocean or the local port. These ships also feature Ricpord by iFLY, an indoor skydiving simulator that is one of the most hair-raising experiences at sea. How about the SeaPlex where you can roller skate or take a spin on some bumper cars.
Everything You Should Know About Royal Caribbean's Private Island, Perfect Day at CocoCay - Travel + Leisure
Everything You Should Know About Royal Caribbean's Private Island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Broadway-style shows in the Royal Theater, AquaTheater, Two70, and Studio B are a key entertainment highlight included in your cruise fare. This offers you a fantastic opportunity to enjoy world-class performances at sea. All prices are per-person, based on a double occupancy of the stateroom and are quoted in U.S. The cruise fares quoted also do not include any applicable government taxes, fees, or surcharges that may be assessed by any governmental agencies. Such assessment is subject to change without notice at any time whether or not you have a confirmed booking under deposit or if you have made a final payment.
If you’re in for a quick bite, Cafe Promenade offers coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. The main dining room offers a varying menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, inclusive in your cruise price. Here, dinner reservations are needed, and a dress code applies, which may differ across ships. They also have special access to the suite lounge and Coastal Kitchen for every meal, free laundry services, and included standard gratuities (though extra gratuities, like for the Royal Genie, are optional).
These drinks are available at any time, and include tap water, tea, coffee, lemonade, iced tea, milk, juices (not fresh squeezed), and hot chocolate. While the majority of activities are included in the cost of your cruise fare, there are some you'll have to pay extra for, such as the North Star observation capsule on sea days or fitness classes. As explained above, Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of amenities and activities included in your cruise fare, but there are certain experiences that come at an additional cost.
Here’s a quick rundown of typical services and amenities that usually come at an additional cost. Figuring out what your cruise ship includes is one of the most common (and important!) questions when booking a vacation. The first time I booked a Royal Caribbean cruise, I was beyond confused with their cruise fare and what was and wasn’t included. Royal Caribbean now offers one alcoholic package called the Deluxe Beverage Package. The offerings in this package include most beers, wines, and cocktails $13 or less. There is also a Classic Soda package and the Royal Refreshment package which covers most non-alcoholic drinks.
Gratuities for stateroom attendants and dining-room staff are not included, although they may be automatically charged to you in some situations. Room service is available all day and night, but it includes a service charge. Parents looking for adults-only time may pay an hourly rate to hire a ship babysitter or to leave kids in a supervised group setting.
Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean offers complimentary programming to children between the ages of 3 and 17 years old. From when Adventure Ocean opens each day until 10pm, there is no additional cost. Here is a list of the specialty restaurants in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. Specialty restaurants vary per ship, with some smaller ships offering 2-3 specialty venues and large ships offering up to 7 or 8 different restaurants.
The Cape of Good Hope provides ample port cities to learn about and to discover for yourself. After a sea day, cruisers arrive in Lüderitz, a German-Namibian city with a fraught past. It has plenty of European architecture on display, a stark contrast to the surrounding ghost town and flamingo-flecked coastline. If you’re flying to the second-largest continent in the world, you might be considering a pre- or post-cruise stay. A safari is a natural extension and is accessible from cruise ports including Cape Town, South Africa; Maputo, Mozambique; and Walvis Bay, Namibia.
Giraffes in Krugar Park, South Africa
Kayaks and snorkels let guests get up close in this wildlife-rich region known for lemurs and flying foxes, among other species. See the beautiful sights of Cape Town, South Africa’s most visited city, which offers cruisers natural beauty, plentiful wine, historical significance and a sense of peace. Silversea's luxurious small-ship cruises and expedition voyages sail the world for unique and in-depth experiences in remote locales. Your cruise to Africa will give you the opportunity to visit ports in Morocco and Egypt made famous for their history of art, learning, trade, cuisine, and faith.
Top Africa Tip For Your Africa Cruise
Red Sea crisis: Royal Caribbean alters 9-month world cruise itinerary - USA TODAY
Red Sea crisis: Royal Caribbean alters 9-month world cruise itinerary.
Learn more about the compelling history of the Gulf in the national museums of neighboring countries, or visit the fascinating Portuguese forts in Oman and Bahrain during your vacation. While Oman still has a more traditional culture, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar have quickly become cosmopolitan destinations. If you're looking for a unique blend of ancient history and modern moments, these are the perfect places to visit. For example, if you are interested in safari, the best times for viewing varies between Southern and Eastern Africa and even the type of game you are hoping to see. In general, the drier seasons provide a better opportunity for viewing; between May and October in the south and January to March in the east.
Options for Land-Based Safari Add-ons
If you’re considering an Africa cruise, you’ll find such a variety of Silversea itineraries that you may have difficulty choosing. You can spend more than a week getting to know the country of South Africa (view of Cape Town, at top) as you navigate its coast. This guide answers your questions about a voyage along Africa’s shores and suggests some itineraries to tickle your cruise-planning fancy.
A small, historic Namibian town, Walvis Bay is the gateway to some outstanding natural attractions. With the highest sand dunes in the world, its surreal beauty is captivating. Durban is a cosmopolitan city and its complex history has led to a rich ethnic diversity. Immerse yourself in this multiculturalism by visiting the Zulu and Indian markets, full of aroma of exotic spices. Safari cruises are expensive, and should an illness or other unforeseen circumstance disrupt your travel plans, you'll get reimbursed if you've purchased insurance. Not to mention that your regular health insurance likely won't cover you during your travels in Africa -- another major area where travel insurance can step in should the unexpected occur.
EXPLORE EXHILARATING EXHIBITS
Africa is surrounded by water on all sides, but it’s not widely considered for its waterfront real estate. We are a team of global travelers and cruise enthusiasts with several combined decades of experience in providing world-class luxury travel to our clients. Just to give you an idea of the richness of Africa’s history and the varied of its natural treasures, here are a handful of the greatest things you can do on Africa cruises.
Culture
Port Elizabeth’s Route 67 offers 67 art installations to mark each of the 67 years Mandela fought against apartheid and for the rights of all South Africans. The great continent of Africa is a destination that runs wild with exciting culture and adventures. This continent, considered the first place where humans lived, is filled with history. The continent is so large, cruising around it takes a while, but you can explore many regions of the island with cruises that depart from Cairo in the north western corner to Cape Town way down at the bottom. Sail from Accra, Ghana on the western coast or experience the island life in Madagascar and Mauritius as you leave on a cruise from Port Louis, off the coast of Africa.
Explore Africa and Indian Ocean
Africa is, for example, more than 2 million square miles bigger than North America. The Sahara Desert alone is larger than the 48 contiguous United States combined. Mumbai is a bustling city where you’ll find packed trains, towering skyscrapers and a vibrant population that continues to grow. You can’t afford to miss out on Mahe's spectacular beaches, picturesque adventure spots and the “do-nothing” relaxation havens. Cruises to Africa are a great way to expand your imagination and delve deeper into the history of the Mediterranean region.
From the Middle East to Madagascar, from the Sahara Desert to South Africa’s fantastic wildlife and the exotic beaches of the Seychelles, Africa might just be the world’s most diverse continent. You won’t find anywhere quite like Africa with its sun-beaten deserts, the vast plains of the Serengeti and the cultural hub of Cape Town. As you cruise around Africa, you’ll be introduced to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the unmistakeable sights and sounds of places like Madagascar and Zanzibar. Take a voyage with Cunard to a city that trades in high-octane extravagance.
Africa is home to some of the most majestic species on the planet; lions and giraffes that wander across the vast plains of the savanna, and monkeys and gorillas that inhabit the lush canopies of the rainforests in South Africa. A cruise to Africa offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to set eyes on these incredible sights and create ever-lasting memories. So what are the benefits of checking off this bucket-list trip via cruise, and are there drawbacks? Here, we've outlined some of the major pros and cons of tackling a safari by cruise, instead of by the traditional land-based approach. Luanda, the capital of Angola, has been busy rebuilding since its civil war ended in 2002. Visitors can shop at a local market, have lunch and scope out the city’s landmarks and educate themselves about the country’s complex history as a source of slaves.
We'll coordinate your roundtrip flights, and transportation between the airport and cruise port. On a luxury Africa cruise, you will gain a unique perspective of this fascinating, multicultural region, whether you’re browsing the markets of Morocco or exploring the antiquities in the Egyptian port of Alexandria. Regent on Wednesday also revealed that Explorer would spend the summer of 2018 in Europe. The vessel will operate a variety of seven- to 12-night voyages in the Mediterranean, North Sea and Baltic Sea.
It’s gorgeous Golden Mile, which actually consists of 6km of beach, draws a line between the city and the Indian Ocean and provides a perfect opportunity for surfing, swimming and fishing. Its promenade is lined with shops, restaurants and entertainment complexes, and here, you can also find uShaka Marine World. This 16-hectare theme park features the largest aquarium in the southern hemisphere and offers the opportunity to get up close to some wild and fascinating sea animals. Unless you tack on a land-based, pre- or post-cruise safari extension (which plenty of cruise lines offer as add-ons), your shore excursions will be limited to what's accessible from the port. Many of the big-name reserves that lie inland, such as South Africa's Kruger National Park, will be off-limits.
This includes passports and visas for any country they may visit during their trip. On a cruise to Alaska, live a nature lover's dream in the land where guests can catch postcard-worthy sights. At first glance many mistake Victoria for an English coastal city or northern European town. Full of greenery, pubs and Victorian architecture, it's difficult to believe that this was a tent city full of rough and tumble miners just 150 years ago.
Ketchikan
I like Adventures by Disney, which offers small-group travel all over the world facilitated by seasoned guides. All the trip details are taken care of, including experiences, food, lodging, and transportation. Seabourn strives to offer a more tasteful Alaskan cruise and not only because it’s an ultra-luxury cruise line. Sail to the destination of your dreams from the departure port that works best for you. Similar to a traditional all inclusive vacation, food and entertainment on board is included in your cruise fare.
Alaskan Explorer
The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler - The Points Guy
The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler.
Alaska cruisetours combine our top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers cruise with three to ten nights on land exploring Denali National Park. Travel aboard our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® train and unwind at Princess Wilderness Lodges®. Every year Princess introduces more people to Denali National Park than any other cruise line.
Learn More About Alaska Cruises
Viking Orion's 10-night cruise between Vancouver and Seward includes scenic sailing of the Inside Passage and Yakutat Bay and a stop at rarely visited Valdez. The biggest suites come with even more perks, such as a one-night pre-cruise hotel and butler service. The storied Cunard cruise line, with more than 180 years of seafaring history, returned to Alaska after nearly 30 years when it arrived back in the Great Land in 2019.
BEAUTY TO GO WILD OVER
And if you're looking for a cruise you can drive to, check out options for last-minute deals from Galveston or Florida, including Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Port Canaveral. When Capt. George Vancouver sailed into ice-choked Icy Strait more than two centuries ago, Glacier Bay was little more than a dent in a mountain of ice 4,000 ft/1,219 m thick and 20 mi/32 km wide. By the time John Muir visited the area in 1879, the ice had retreated more than 30 mi/48 km, creating a beautiful bay.
Alaska National Parks
With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative. Icy Strait Point is home to the remote Tlingit village of Hoonah, home to fewer than 800 people and a deep Native history.
A look at the 2024 Alaska cruises
A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city. From top-rated cruises that visit Glacier Bay National Park to scenic rail travel and exclusive Princess lodges, you will find a seamless Alaska experience with Princess. With no roads connecting it to the rest of Alaska or North America, it is truly a protected destination. Founded as a gold mining town and now the state’s capital, Juneau has one foot in history and one in the future. Embark on a whale watching tour, or sail past Mendenhall Glacier on an Alaska cruise.
Expect public spaces in sky and sea hues and an abundance of timeless teak, stone and custom tile work. Sourdough is such an important part of Alaskan culture that long-time Alaskans are actually called sourdoughs in local parlance. Try a sourdough bread bowl filled with salmon chowder for a hearty lunch. Find the most Instagrammable places for your next vacation cruise to Alaska. Come discover the prettiest spots to take pictures with our travel photo guide. Most people tend to focus on the Caribbean for summer cruises, but an Alaska summer vacation can be a great option, too.
Don't forget to check out our Alaska cruise deals page to save even more on your next sailing. Last but definitely not least, Alaskan Dream Cruises is about as Alaska as you can get, as the cruise line is run by the well-known Allen family who run excursions around the state. The fleet of small expedition ships is diverse; the 12-person Kruzof Explorer is a repurposed crab boat!
With a shorter season than typical cruise lines, running from May through September, cruises to Alaska are typically in high demand, making them a bit more costly to enjoy than other cruises. In addition to on-board activities and amenities, passengers are also able to enjoy one-of-a-kind shore excursions throughout different ports of call in Alaska. Seabourn includes dining in all restaurants, gratuities, Wi-Fi, all drinks onboard and in your suite, butler service for all rooms and caviar on demand in its fares. Transfers are not included if you don't book your airfare through Seabourn.
Explore more while spending less with Alaska Cruise Tours deals onboard our best cruise ships. Don't splash out for a cruise with unlimited alcoholic beverages if the house wine or beer is just fine. Or if you'd prefer to choose your own excursions, you might want a line that has a lower base fare so you can put your money toward those pricey once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
In addition to more than 140 shore experiences that immerse guests into this magical destination, Cunard invites explorers, travel writers and locals onboard to share their passions and knowledge. The cruise line takes inspiration from Alaska with special local dishes served in its onboard restaurants, and the return of the Ice White Ball, a formal gala affair with a glacial twist. Alaska cruises first made their debut in 1881, when the Pacific Coast Steamship Company began cruising the Inside Passage aboard its two ships, the Ancon and the Idaho. Today, with over 20 cruise lines and small ships sailing Alaska’s waterways, there are plenty of options for travelers to choose from during the Alaska cruise season, which runs every year from April through October. If you’re planning a bucket list trip, we’ve selected the best Alaska cruises for every type of travel style in 2024, from the adventure-focused to the super luxurious.
While onboard, Princess immerses its guests into the sites, sounds, tastes and history of the 49th state through its award-winning North to Alaska programming. Life onboard is made easy, too, with the cruise line’s revolutionary Medallion technology that not only keeps people traveling together connected, but makes buying gifts in ports a snap by charging purchases back to your cabin. The cruise line’s Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary offers two glacier viewing experiences, as well as a voyage across the Gulf of Alaska to see Prince William Sound, known for its abundance of marine and coastal life. Guests can extend their Alaska cruise with three- to 10-day day pre- and post-cruise tours. Boarding an Alaskan cruise for your next vacation is an excellent way to see and experience the true American wilderness.
Or experience the culture of Russian Alaska on a visit to St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church, and relive Native history at the Sheldon Jackson Museum. Pioneer America’s Last Frontier onboard Ovation of the Seas®, one of the world's most groundbreaking ships and among the boldest ships to ever sail Alaska. Gaze at giant glaciers from the pool deck while you sail through Endicott Arm. Scan the surrounding waters on your way to Juneau for glimpses of wildlife from the North Star®, the tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
End your journey in Milwaukee with a visit to the legendary spots that make this city famous, including the Harley-Davidson Museum. With Pearl Seas Cruises, every moment of your Great Lakes voyages are carefully curated to ensure an unforgettable experience. Discover the wonders of the Great Lakes region in ultimate comfort and style, and create memories to last a lifetime. Embark on an unmatched adventure through the breathtaking Great Lakes aboard Pearl Seas' luxury cruise ship. Our luxurious vessel is meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and sophistication as you explore the enchanting waters of Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, Lake Superior, Lake Ontario, and Lake Huron.
Great Lakes Cruises That Include the Erie Canal
The new Viking Polaris joined her identical sister ship, Viking Octantis, doubling the line’s cruise capacity on the Great Lakes. If you’re intrigued, here are the cruise ships to watch that are sailing the aptly named Great Lakes. The Great Lakes offer cruisers access to wildlife, natural landscapes, quaint lakeside towns, and industrial history on the U.S.
Ocean Navigator and Ocean Voyager
Cruise vessels that operate in the Great Lakes can't access the region until the locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway open for the summer, something that typically happens the last week of March. They need to be out of the Great Lakes before the St. Lawrence Seaway closes for the winter (typically in December). All this can be seen via an overland trip, of course, and many people explore the Great Lakes region by car or on motorcoach tours. But the region is so sprawling — the Great Lakes touch eight U.S. states and the Canadian province of Ontario — that logistically it's almost impossible to experience the area in a broad way on a single trip without going by ship.
Cruise ship company that visited Duluth to leave the Great Lakes - MPR News
Cruise ship company that visited Duluth to leave the Great Lakes.
Some of the most desirable cabins might be sold out; being flexible about your sail date or itinerary can help. Note that Great Lakes cruise vessels don't travel directly on the 36-mile-long strait that connects Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, which is known as the Niagara River (lest they go plunging over the falls). Instead, they use the Welland Canal — another marvel of engineering and an attraction in its own right. The Jewel of the Great Lakes has been a summer getaway for Midwesterners since the Victorian era and it retains much of its Victorian-era charm.
French luxury line Ponant has its 184-passenger Le Bellot (built in 2020) in the Great Lakes this fall, to be joined by sister ship Le Dumont d’Urville in 2023. These six-deck expedition yachts boast the kind of international cuisine and complimentary wine pours you’d expect on French-operated vessels, plus an outdoor swimming pool and a panoramic lounge. And there is the super-cool feature of an underwater sensory lounge, Blue Eye, with submarine-like views of walleye fish and other Great Lakes marine life.
Viking Ocean Cruises
Most of the world's biggest cruise lines — including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line — can't operate in the Great Lakes because their ships are too big to enter the region through the St. Lawrence Seaway. This has turned the Great Lakes into an exclusive zone for a handful of smaller cruise operators that focus on very small vessels. These ships offer intimate experiences combined with crewmembers who anticipate your every want and need. It’s everything you desire on a larger cruise ship, minus everything you wish you could cast away.
Compared to budget river cruises in Europe, which can start at $250 per person per night, Great Lakes Cruises are relatively expensive. If you are cruising between the U.S. and Canada you will, first off, need your passport. As of press time, Canada requires cruise passengers age 12 and up to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (some cruise lines require passengers age 5 and up to be vaccinated) and to have completed ArriveCAN health forms prior to arrival. Specializing in ocean, river, ultra-luxury, small ship and expedition cruises.
Accepted by Most Major Cruise Lines
Along the way, enjoy stops at local wineries, historic lighthouses, museums, aquariums, renowned restaurants and so much more! Niagara Great Lakes CruiseAs you’ll discover when you click on the individual Great Lakes cruises listed below, each and every one of our trips has something to write home about. Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario comprise the largest group of freshwater lakes — or “inland seas” — on earth, and our tours explore them all. Nature-lovers will be entranced by the sea-like character of these bodies of water. Because the Great Lakes has such a short season with a limited number of ships, sailings in the region are often in high demand and people plan early. Newcomer Viking, notably, has told TPG it has seen brisker sales this year for its Great Lakes trips than sailings to Antarctica — one of the world's ultimate bucket list destinations.
Great Lakes Cruise Tips: Know Before You Take Any Great Lakes Cruises
It's also a hub for outdoorsy pursuits including mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking and angling, as it's nestled within boreal forests. For example, seven-night Viking sailings in the region start at $5,995 per person. Two more lines that occasionally operate sailings in the region are German line Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and France-based Ponant. Tour organizer Smithsonian Journeys also occasionally offers Great Lakes sailings using chartered Ponant vessels.
Boats travel to Lake Huron (possibly Lake Superior), Lake Erie and end either in Lake Ontario or include a day sailing up the St. Lawrence River to end in Montreal, Quebec. When AQV restarted their American river cruise in 2021, they predicted a bump in Great Lakes bookings. Passengers would come to them after a river cruise and ask what else they had in North America, Bierdz said. Viking Great Lakes cruises for Viking Octantis visit upper Midwest destinations that even those living in the region rarely see. Using Milwaukee as a home port, Viking's Undiscovered Great Lakes itinerary stops in Wisconsin's Apostle Islands, Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and Duluth in Minnesota before ending in Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Viking's itineraries have the most outdoorsy options, while Pearl Seas Cruises offers trips with a lot of small-town stops. The two main players in Great Lakes cruising are Viking (a newcomer in 2022) and Pearl Seas Cruises. Each has one vessel devoted to the region (Viking Octantis and Pearl Mist, respectively). You'll start in, say, Toronto, and work your way west to Chicago — or vice versa.
But you might just have a no-extra-charge outing including many of the highlights of each place already planned for your voyage. One thing that all three of the main lines operating in the Great Lakes have in common is that they include tours during at least some stops and sometimes every stop in their base fares. Pearl Seas Cruises and Viking are particularly known for including lots of shore excursions in their base fares. Then there are stops at quieter places such as Mackinac Island, where your sightseeing might include an excursion by horse-drawn carriage to historical sites. Of the three main lines operating in the Great Lakes, as noted above, Pearl Seas Cruises focuses the most on the region's small towns, with fewer stops at bigger cities.
The line will have its two remodeled 202-passenger vessels in the area. Ocean Navigator is boarding passengers in Savannah today for a cruise up the U.S. East Coast en route; the first Great Lakes sailing is May 9, from Toronto. Ocean Navigator holds 202 passengers and is AQV's second best-selling ship this season.
For travelers weary of the last-minute changes and COVID-era stresses, a Great Lakes cruise promises an easier and more reliable cruise, Bierdz said. (What are your thoughts on flying internationally to cruise vs. leaving from the U.S.? Take the Cruise Critic survey). Pearl Seas Cruises is also returning to the Great Lakes with its single vessel, the 210-pasenger Pearl Mist, in late May.
This is, after all, the brand that for many years held a Hairy Chest Contest around the pool deck on every voyage, to a standing-room-only, hooting and hollering crowd. Carnival ships are all about fun in a very laid-back, unpretentious, nothing-too-fancy sort of way. The fun continues when you reach your port — there’s a huge variety of shore excursions to choose from. Our ships sail to stunning destinations — see just where on the map we go. The space also will be the gateway for visitors to explore Grand Bahama. Ships start as sketches, then come deck plans… and we get building from there.
WISH MARDI GRAS® HAD EVEN MORE FUN?
BlueIguana is a Chipotle-style restaurant, with yummy made-to-order burritos and tacos. Created in partnership with Food Network's Guy Fieri, Guy's Burger Joint offers burgers that beat anything you'll find around the pool on other mass-market ships and even most luxury vessels. Note that Carnival's two oldest ships — those that are part of the 1990s-built Fantasy Class — have relatively few balcony cabins by today's standards. (After retrofitting, several have around 150 balcony cabins, out of a total of more than 1,000 cabins in all.) In part because of this, Carnival has been phasing these ships out of its fleet in recent years.
Who goes on Carnival cruise ships?
During those hours, Camp Ocean transforms into a supervised slumber party-type environment with games, movies, crafts and snacks, along with late-night parties called Night Owls. Carnival claims to draw more children than any other cruise line. So perhaps it makes sense that it has one of the most extensive children's programs at sea. The line has formal children's programming and activities for children as young as 2 years old through the age of 17. In short, there's a ton to do up top on Carnival vessels — and it's almost all available to every passenger on board the vessels at no extra charge (the roller coaster is the only exception).
Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms & Suites
In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of Carnival ships are loaded with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a wide range of bars, lounges and nightspots. Around the ship, you’ll find spaces like Phantom Lounge and Dr. Frankenstein’s Lab, where you can see shows or dance the night away. When you’re ready to soak up the sun, find a lounge chair at the adults-only pool deck or splash down on one of the slides at WaterWorks.
Aft-View Extended Balcony
The second-to-highest tier, Platinum (75 points), brings such perks as priority check-in and boarding, priority debarkation, priority dinner reservations, priority spa reservations and priority water shuttle boarding. Platinums also get complimentary wash-and-fold laundry service (with a limit of two to five bags, depending on the length of the cruise). In other words, if you are sailing seven-night cruises, you will be Gold level on your fourth sailing, as you will be passing the 25-day mark on that sailing. Most vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, as well as European-style, 220-volt outlets. On most ships, smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas and in casinos and nightclubs.
Better comfort, lighting and storage all spring from a deep understanding we've developed around how people actually use their staterooms… and how small changes to the room add up to make the experience that much better. (Enough USB charging ports for everybody’s stuff? Oh yes!) Thoughtful, guest-centric design is how we do it… and all this in-room convenience comes paired with a fresh new look. Rudi’s Seagrill™ is the brainchild of cookbook author and master chef Rudi Sodamin. He has years of experience pleasing palates of vacationers… and this guy loves serving up a smile as much as Carnival does! But he’s serious about seafood, and an evening at Rudi’s proves it through the courses. Enjoy selections like seafood bisque and crab-stuffed lobster tail imperial — all served with an elegant flair that pays proper tribute to the beauty of the ocean from which so much fun, and flavor, arises.
Carnival Cruise Line confirms ban on a popular cabin hack - News-Daily.com
Carnival Cruise Line confirms ban on a popular cabin hack.
Even though the ship is small, with a total guest capacity of 2,606, it’s ideal for a quick weekend away if you want a mix of relaxation and high-energy activities. I've sailed the most on Carnival Elation since the ship sails from my hometown of Jacksonville. Even though it's the oldest in the fleet, I love that the sailings are short weekend trips where I can sit outside in the sun enjoying a Guy's Burger Joint smash burger before heading inside to see a show or play bingo. And because the ship is so small, it's easy to navigate, and I always end up making friends with the delightful crew onboard.
MEET MARDI GRAS®
Past favorites become full-blown musical productions featuring multi-talented performers absolutely bringing down the house with song, dance... With tunes from fan-favorite divas, crooners or rockers, each show has a different theme — and of course, a completely different playlist! Get ready for heartfelt emotions, straight-up bouncy fun, or something in-between — all types are welcome to get down here.
Carnival Cruises
At Summer Landing, fun this cool is literally always in season. Aside from the main pool, which is the hub of much of the line's fun activities, almost every Carnival cruise ship also has at least one waterslide, with several having multi-slide water parks. Additionally, several have a top-deck SportSquare that features a colorful collection of outdoor amusements, including Ping-Pong, billiards, foosball, mini-golf, Twister and a SkyCourse ropes course.
Despite being one of the industry's lowest-cost operators, Carnival manages to pull off one of the best steakhouses at sea in Fahrenheit 555, and even the no-extra-charge main restaurants get the basics right. Most of these six ships (all but Carnival Venezia) have an a la carte barbecue-and-beer joint called Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, too. Like other big-ship operators, Carnival packs a lot of dining options onto its vessels — some included in the price, some at an extra charge. That said, Carnival has seen the success that some of its competitors have had with a bigger range of upscale accommodations, and it's eyeing more suites for future vessels.
New law forces Carnival Cruise Line to change advertised price for cruises - Cruise Blog
New law forces Carnival Cruise Line to change advertised price for cruises.
Adults also have their own space at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat with swaying hammocks and a bar. This is the best room you can get… without bunking up with the guy himself. A Captain’s Suite aboard Carnival Liberty features tons of indoor space, and a huge balcony when you need a little more. Back inside you’ll find a king-size bed, two full bathrooms (one with whirlpool tub), plus a separate living room that sleeps another three.
Get ready to relax as you gaze upon Carnival Liberty's gentle wake from your spacious balcony. Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, more kick-back space; not to even mention some of the best stern-side views you'll find anywhere. Get ready to relax as you gaze upon Carnival Magic's gentle wake from your spacious balcony. Meanwhile, for passengers hoping for quiet time away from the kids, many Carnival ships also have an adults-only Serenity retreat area on their top decks with padded loungers, daybeds, hot tubs and often a bar.
I look at the ports of call, the space-to-guest ratio, the amenities and onboard activities, and the launch point. If your group likes to sail a little closer to the waves — or just in a calm location at the aft of the ship — choose a Family Harbor Cove Balcony stateroom. You’ll find your outpost a wave-watcher’s paradise… and while we can’t promise, you just might catch a living, swimming marine biology lesson from your railing!
With more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors, try an Ocean Suite to experience private, luxurious relaxation. Ocean Suites also include VIP check-in, walk-in closet and bathroom with whirlpool tub. Cloud 9 Spa™ staterooms on Mardi Gras® feature exclusive décor and in-room amenities to help soothe you after a long day’s fun — spa bathrobes and slippers, plus toiletries by Elemis.
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