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While sailing one of her 21 Transatlantic Crossings this season, Cunard Line‘s flagship Queen Mary 2 navigated a mid-Atlantic rendezvous to cheer on the rowing team for ‘Artemis Investments’ as they attempt to break the 114-year old world record, set back in 1896, by rowing from New York to England. The 23-foot, purpose-built rowing boat with its four-man team departed New York on 17 June. Additional pictures and video capturing the spirit of the occasion have been posted on Cunard’s blog WeAreCunard.com.

“It was a thrilling moment to witness this one-of-a-kind encounter at sea, not only for me and the crew, but for all our guests aboard Queen Mary 2,” said Captain Nick Bates. “We wish the Artemis team good luck and Godspeed as they continue the quest for their world record-breaking journey.”

The newest development from Crystal Cruises is now available to ease travel planning. Crystal’s Priority Check-in & Planning Center launched today, allowing guests or their travel agents to complete tasks prior to sailing, from submitting guest immigration information and airport/ship transfer requests to booking spa treatments and shore excursions. A new day-by-day Cruise Calendar feature conveniently organizes guests’ travel plans once reservations and requests are submitted.

“The Priority Check-in & Planning Center is an invaluable tool in streamlining the luxury travel experience,” says Thomas Mazloum, senior vice president, operations. “Guests have the luxury of pre-planning their vacations from home, making the first day of their cruise even more enjoyable.”

With the band warmed up, amps cranked, spotlight set and the adoring crowd ready to explode, Carnival guests will take the stage, grab the mic and live out their music-star daydreams on the open seas. Introducing Superstar Live Karaoke, Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest entertainment feature puts guests into the act, fronting a live band and performing their favorite songs to a packed house.

Superstar Live Karaoke combines two popular forms of entertainment – live music by talented musicians and karaoke by Carnival’s singing sailors – and cranks it up. It is fun for all when aspiring singers or fun-seekers have their moment in the spotlight while a few hundred of their friends, family and fellow guests cheer them on and sing along.

Hotel room prices can be misleading. Just because a hotel is advertising a low price does not guarantee that it is good value. Always do your own research and ask some questions.

Booking in Advance

The best hotel deal – price, location, standard & facilities – is made by booking well in advance especially if booking during a holiday period or some other special event. The HotelWorld reservation system allows customers to book a hotel twelve months in advance and change the booking if required.