Alaska’s celebrated sights and wild wilderness will provide the backdrop for four brand-new Oceania Cruises’ summer 2011 itineraries. The line known for exploring off-the-beaten-path ports of call is engaging guests with an “Alaskan Immersion” collection of interactive shore excursions that truly reveal the character and culture of the people of this great land.

“We are delighted to bring the 49th state to our guests in an up-close and personal way,” states Bob Binder, president of Oceania Cruises. “These sightseeing tours and excursions were designed to provide guests an immersive, insightful Alaskan cultural experience.”

A sampling of “Alaskan Immersion” excursions includes:

Wild Alaska Culinary Extravaganza – this one-of-a-kind culinary class isn’t simply educational and entertaining; it’s immensely satisfying to the palate. Guests will join a local host and culinary expert who will walk them through all of the steps of preparation and grilling Alaskan seafood. The inventive menu includes wild salmon, Dungeness crab, halibut and plenty of other local favorites just plucked from the sea.

The Bering Sea: Crab Fisherman’s Tour – led by a seasoned Bering Sea captain and crew aboard Aleutian Ballad, the storied crab boat seen on Season 2 of the Discovery Channel series, “Deadliest Catch.” The adventure begins in the calm, protected waters of coastal Ketchikan. Skilled fishermen haul in crab pots and lines from the depths, revealing all manner of sea life, including king crab, shark, octopus, prawns and rock fish. Common tour sights include bald eagles, seals, otters, sea lions and whales.

Musher’s Camp & Sled Dog Discovery – this enriching activity allows guests to experience a one-mile, round-trip expedition aboard a wheeled sled pulled by a husky team through Southeast Alaska’s temperate rainforest. There will be time to cuddle husky puppies and take a guided walk through the musher’s camp to learn more about this northern pastime and the people who have dedicated their lives to it.

Kodiak Guided River Fishing – a day of fishing for salmon, trout and halibut followed by an outdoor barbecued salmon bake is a quintessential Alaskan experience. Expert guides will personally scout seven possible fishing sites for a successful day, including rivers, shorelines, ocean bays and inlets. Following the tour, guests can have their fish vacuum-packed to carry on board or have it shipped to a destination of their choice.

Other distinctive excursions for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers include:

Golf Prince Rupert – picturesque Prince Rupert Centennial Golf Course is regarded as one of the best in Alaska and the Northern British Columbia coast. This par-71, 5,526-yard, 18-hole course was built in 1967 near the base of Mount Hayes. The layout winds through the coastal rainforest and numerous creeks cross the lush, green fairways.

Sea Kayaking Adventure – this full-day excursion allows guests to truly experience nature, not just observe it. Paddling at a relaxed pace affords ample time to take in the unspoiled coast within Kachemak Bay State Park, the first state park in all of Alaska.

‘Ziprider,’ World’s Largest Zip-Line – super thrills can be had on the world’s largest and longest zip-line over the treetops and down a mountain at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. Guests can zoom along 300 feet above the dense green forest and take in sweeping views of Port Frederick and Icy Strait.

Travelers discover Alaska aboard Oceania Cruises’ 684-guest Regatta – an intimate ship acclaimed for its open-seating gourmet dining (no surcharges), luxurious public rooms and accommodations, and warm, attentive service. With Double Bonus Savings, 10-day Alaska cruises start from $2,999 per person, double occupancy; offer expires Dec. 31, 2010.

For reservations or to order a brochure, contact a travel agent, browse OceaniaCruises.com or call toll-free at 800-531-5658.

About Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises® is the world’s only upper-premium cruise line and offers an unrivaled combination of the finest cuisine at sea, elegant accommodations, exceptional personalized service and extraordinary value. Award-winning itineraries visit more than 300 ports in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and the Americas aboard the luxurious Regatta, Insignia, Nautica and brand new Marina. Riviera, a sister ship to Marina, is scheduled to join the fleet in April 2012.

About Prestige Cruise Holdings
Prestige Cruise Holdings (PCH) is the parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Formed in 2007 to manage select assets in Apollo Management’s cruise investment portfolio, PCH is led by Chairman and CEO Frank Del Rio, the founder of Oceania Cruises. PCH is the market leader in the upper-premium and luxury segments of the cruise industry with nearly 4,000 berths between the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands, a number the company expects will grow to approximately 6,500 berths by 2012.

SOURCE: OCEANIACRUISES.COM

The Kahala Hotel & Resort has kicked up the fun factor with the addition of Keawe Ocean Adventures to their roster of activities, which also includes the popular Dolphin Quest and Kahala Kids programs.

ON THE BEACH

Keawe Ocean Adventures sees the beach as a journey of fun and discovery. Their ocean experts are inspirational guides that make seemingly difficult water activities accessible no matter what age or skill level. Learn how to surf, stand-up paddleboard, snorkel, spear fish, outrigger canoe surf, and fly fish. Guided beach programs are open to all ages, and all activities take place in Maunalua Bay, fronting The Kahala from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Fly Fishing – Bonefish, oio in Hawaiian, thrive in the sandy, shallow waters off The Kahala. Catch five to ten pound oio from an outrigger canoe with light tackle and spinner rods. $150 for 1.5 hours; $300 for 3 hours.
Surfing – Private surf lessons, all the gear you need (including rash guards and reef walkers), and guides that point you to the right surf spot within seconds make for fantastic surf adventure. For advanced surfers, mini surf trips to nearby spots can also be arranged. $100 for 1 hour.

Stand Up Paddling – A blend of surfing and paddling, and a great core workout, hour-long private lessons allow plenty of time to learn this balancing act. $100 for 1 hour.

Outrigger Canoe Surfing – Catch waves in an 18-foot outrigger canoe for an exhilarating Hawaiian roller coaster ride. Session comes with a life vest, safety lesson, and an experienced waterman. $75 per person for 30 minutes.

Snorkeling – Access remote snorkeling areas in an outrigger canoe to see a variety of colorful reef fish. $65 per person for 1 hour.

Spear Fishing – Learn the basics of Hawaiian three-prong spear fishing. $150 for 1.5 hours.
For more information: www.keaweadventures.com.

THE MAGIC OF DOLPHIN QUEST

Guests can interact with Hoku, Kolohe, Liho, Lono, and Nainoa, The Kahala’s resident Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins, in the resort’s 26,000 sq.ft. natural lagoon. Dolphin Quest’s Kids Aquatic Adventure program is perfect for children from five to 10 years old ($275 per child). Little ones (four and younger) can also join in the fun with an adult in the Wee Family, Fins and Fun program ($149 per parent/child pair).

KAHALA FOR KIDS

The Kahala keeps kids entertained. Upon arrival, kids are welcomed with fun amenities, such as a Kahala dolphin or honu (sea turtle) stuffed toy and homemade cookies. At the Keiki Club, kids learn about the Hawaiian Islands and culture through activities like reef walking, snorkeling, storytelling, lei making, hula dancing, crabbing, arts & crafts, bamboo pole fishing, and observing Hawaiian marine life. Half-day program is $35 per child or $45 with lunch, and full-day program is $65 per child.

- About The Kahala -

With 338 guestrooms, The Kahala Hotel & Resort is an exclusive oceanfront destination resort known for its impeccable service and hospitality. Just minutes from Waikiki, yet offering the peace and serenity of a neighbor island experience, The Kahala has been Honolulu’s social address for weddings and gatherings since its opening in 1964. Captains of industry and celebrity guests continue to call The Kahala their home-away-from-home in Hawai’i.

The Kahala has five restaurants including the award-winning Hoku’s, a spa, and a lagoon that is home to playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The resort is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and Preferred Hotels & Resorts, and is long recognized internationally as an icon among legendary resorts. It recently completed a US$52 million renovation of its 338 rooms and suites as well as meeting space and public areas.

For more information, please contact The Kahala Hotel & Resort at (808) 739-8888 or toll-free at (800) 367-2525; or visit their website at www.kahalaresort.com

SOURCE Kahala Hotel & Resort / PRNewswire

RELATED LINKS
http://www.kahalaresort.com

Steeped in ancient wellness practices, Thailand, Myanmar and India are featured destinations on Crystal Cruises’ April 26 “Mind, Body and Spirit” Experiences of Discovery voyage. Optional Crystal Adventures explore the spiritual heritage of the region via personal meetings with Buddhist monks, therapeutic spa rituals and a visit to a meditation center, while guest health experts share insights on life balance, Tai Chi, yoga and family health.

Enlightening experiences ashore include:

Myanmar – A rare conversation with the monks of the World of Buddhist Institute, plus famed meditation center Chanmyay Yeiktha Monastery.

Phuket – Detoxifying Cheraim Spa experience using natural oils and tea. Also, Wat Chalong Temple, the largest of Phuket’s 29 Buddhist monasteries.

Specialists include:

Jim Karas – Acclaimed fitness expert will help guests develop a “Business Plan for the Body”;

Dr. Martin Lee – Founder of the Tai Chi Cultural Institute will teach classes and lecture on youthful longevity;

Dr. Donald B. Ford – Cleveland Clinic expert will address family health and the latest research;

Sandy Shaner – Yoga expert will lead classes in the ancient discipline;

Susanne Sweeny – Author will speak to how to turn stress into strength;

Susan King – Intuitive counselor will highlight the soul faction of the mind-body-soul connection.

“The connection between mind, body and spirit is fundamental to the culture of Asia and India,” says Thomas Mazloum, senior vice president, hotel operations. “The programming on board and ashore provides the unique opportunity to examine physical and spiritual health with today’s top experts, in a destination with a centuries-long wellness heritage.”

Guests can also enjoy Crystal Symphony’s Feng Shui-inspired Spa & Fitness Center, 360-degree Promenade deck for walking or jogging, new Nordic Poles walking program, indoor cycling classes and acupuncture treatments. Tropical fruit, fresh fish and salads, low-calorie and low-carb selections are available throughout. Even cocktails include only the freshest fruit purees and juices.

The 16-day voyage visits Singapore; Phuket, Thailand; Yangon/Rangoon, Myanmar; Cochin and Mumbai, India; and Dubai, UAE. Two-for-one cruise fares start at $7,390 per person, double occupancy, including $1,000 per person All Inclusive – As You Wish shipboard credits and complimentary air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit crystalcruises.com.

CONTACT: Mimi Weisband or Julie Dibble (310) 203-4305, mediarelations@crystalcruises.com.

SOURCE Crystal Cruises / PRNewswire