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Tuesday February 6, 2007

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Austal Launches First Hawaii Superferry, Largest Ever USA Built Aluminum High Speed Vessel

Mobile January 19, 2007 - Another important milestone in the development of Austal USA was achieved on January 18 with the successful launch of Hull 615, a 107-meter high-speed vehicle-passenger catamaran for Hawaii Superferry.

A large local crowd given AUSTAL USA’s location opposite the city center in downtown Mobile, Alabama watched the impressive launch process. The day began with a floating drydock being secured to the Austal sea wall on the Mobile River in front of the assembly bay. After ensuring that the drydock was properly aligned and secured the process of rolling the ferry out onto the drydock began with specialist operators maintaining an even distribution of weight at all times. This drydock was then towed back down river to deeper waters enabling the sinking and float-off of the ferry allowing her to be returned and tied up alongside Austal USA.

The day also revealed for the first time the impressive customized paint scheme developed by Hawaii Superferry that has been kept a closely guarded secret prior to launch. The ferry will now undergo final commissioning and sea trials before undertaking a delivery voyage to Hawaii where it will commence service.

Austal USA’s Chief Operating Officer, Dan Spiegel commented on the success of the launch by saying,

"Austal is proud to have designed and constructed this state-of-the-art vessel. It is the first one of its kind in the United States and we have been looking forward to the launch of this ferry for over two years since we celebrated the start of construction. This event represents Austal’s leadership when it comes to high-speed aluminum vessel design and construction."

Since the front wall was recently removed in preparation for the launch the true scale of the fast ferry was clearly evident given the very tight fit within the enormous assembly bay. Hawaii Superferry’s first vessel is the largest aluminum vessel built in the USA to date. This is a testament to the establishment and investment by Austal since first acquiring the vacant land in 2000 and developing a purpose-built aluminum shipyard dedicated to the recruitment and training of first class tradespeople for the production of high speed, high technology aluminum vessels.

Following on from the prior completion of several smaller ferries up to 58 meters the ability of Austal USA to now build, engineer and launch a 107 meter design showcases what is being called a US ‘center of excellence’ for high speed vessel construction. In developing its workforce size over seven years from a start up to numbers now approaching 850, Austal USA is able to leverage off Austal’s 19 year experience in Australia. Since 2000, it has led in the advanced design and delivery of +70 meter (230’) high-speed vessels by a factor of 2:1 over the nearest global competitor.

In deliveries to follow the record set by the 107 meter Hawaii Superferry catamarans will be further eclipsed with the launch of two 127 meter trimaran Littoral Combat Ships also contracted and currently under construction for the US Navy at the Austal USA facility.

Construction began on the first Hawaii Superferry in June 2004 with a visit from a Hawaiian priest, or Kahu, to formally bless the vessel, the assembly bay and everyone that was involved in the project. Full contract funding for this two-vessel project was confirmed in October 2005 enabling work to be completed at an accelerated pace. Construction is advanced on the second ferry that is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2009 following the launch of the first Littoral Combat Ship.

Hawaii Superferry plans to use Austal fast ferry technology to establish Hawaii’s first high-speed vehicle-passenger service. Each catamaran can carry 866 passengers and up to 282 cars (or a combination of 28, twelve meter trucks and 65 cars) and provide services connecting Honolulu to Maui and Kauai in three hours and from Honolulu to the Big Island in approximately four hours.

With a draft of 3.6 meters (11’ 8") and beam of 24 meters (78’), the ferry will commute between the Hawaiian Islands at speeds up to 35 knots. The vessel is four decks high, including two decks for the car and truck loading, one deck for passengers and the bridge deck reserved for the pilot and his crew. The 2nd deck or mezzanine deck is 2/3 hoistable in order to facilitate parking for lighter cars and leave maximum parking space for the larger trucks. The Upper Deck or passenger deck includes many premiere amenities for passengers of all ages besides comfortable seating. This deck includes a bar and lounge on each end, food counter, gift shop, video game room, children’s play area, restrooms, crew mess, purser’s office, and first aid room.

The ferry is powered by four MTU 20V 8000 M70 main engines connected to four ZF 53000 gearboxes. Maneuverability is supplied through four individually driven Kamewa 125 S11 waterjets.

PRINCIPAL PARTICULARS

  • Length overall: 106.5 meters / 349’-4"
  • Length waterline: 92.4 meters / 303’-1"
  • Beam moulded: 23.8 meters / 78’-1"
  • Hull depth moulded: 9.4 meters / 30’-10"
  • Hull draft (maximum): 3.65 meters / 11’-8"
  • Deadweight (maximum): 800 tonnes / 882 tons
  • Passengers 866
  • Crew as per USCG requirements
  • Vehicles: 282 cars / or 28 forty-foot trucks (342 lane meters) with 65 cars
  • Axle loads: - center lanes: 16.5 tons (single axle) / 13.2 tons (dual axle)
  • Axle loads: - outer lanes: 9.9 tons (single axle) / 13.2 tons (dual axle)
  • Vehicle deck clear height: - mezzanines raised 4.6 - 4.7 meters / 15'1" - 15’5"
  • Vehicle deck clear height: - mezzanines lowered 2.6 meters / 8’6" below / 2.2 meters / 7’3" above
  • Fuel (approx): 215,000 liters/ 56,800 gallons

PROPULSION

  • Main engines: 4 x MTU 20V 8000 M70 / 4 @ 8,200 kW / 10,996 hp
  • Propulsion: 4 x KaMeWa 125 S11
  • Service speed: 35.0 knots, 90% MCR, 400 tons

SURVEY

  • Classification: Germanischer Lloyd

Appointment to the Canadian Transportation Agency

Ottawa January 26, 2007 - The Honorable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced the appointment of Mr. Geoffrey C. Hare as member and chair of the Canadian Transportation Agency.

"I am very pleased that Mr. Hare has accepted this key role," said Minister Cannon. "His extensive background in public policy, planning and development will provide the agency with experienced leadership over the coming years."

Mr. Hare holds a master of environmental studies degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree from York University. In over 25 years with the Ontario government, he held senior management positions in the ministries of Finance and Economic Development and Trade, and with a number of provincial agencies, including the Ontario SuperBuild Corporation and the Ontario Jobs and Investment Board. His last position was as deputy minister of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal, where he played a lead role in developing infrastructure investment plans, major project development and financing, developing and implementing the government’s growth planning agenda, and negotiating federal-provincial infrastructure investment agreements. During his public service career, Mr. Hare’s responsibilities included: economic policy; sectoral competitiveness and development; transportation, energy and environmental policy development; investment attraction and retention; infrastructure policy and planning; reviews of capital and business assets; community and regional development; and communications. Mr. Hare is a former board member of the Ontario Realty Corporation and the Ontario Clean Water Agency, and has provided executive support to committees of Cabinet and public-private advisory boards.

Mr. Hare has been appointed member and chair of the Canadian Transportation Agency for a period of five years.

The Canadian Transportation Agency’s mission is to administer transportation legislation and Government of Canada policies to help achieve an efficient and accessible transportation system by education, consultation and essential regulation.

Holland America Line Offers Exceptional Savings With View & Verandah

Seattle January 26, 2007 - Cruisers who book Holland America Line through the end of February will be rewarded with exceptional savings on most cruises and CruiseTours as well as free upgrades on selected sailings. The premium line's annual View and Verandah Sale applies to nearly all of its more than 500 sailings in 2007 and savings can reach as much as $750 per person.

"We're giving guests an incredible value for their money and even offering an upgrade on selected sailings," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. "With View and Verandah savings applying to most sailings in 2007, this is really the best time to plan this year's vacation."

With the View and Verandah promotion, guests can book a verandah stateroom for the price of an outside stateroom or book an outside stateroom for the price of an inside on select sailings. For example, guests can save $500 per person by booking a verandah stateroom for $1,899 on the 10-day, July 20 Westerdam Mediterranean cruise sailing roundtrip from Rome. Or guests can save $100 per person when booking an outside stateroom for $849 on the 7-day, May 26 Oosterdam Alaska sailing roundtrip from Seattle.

Central Park West "Docks" With Princess Cruises® for 7-Day "Escape Completely" Cruise for Two

Irvine CA January 29, 2007 - Dream of traveling to tropical beaches? Do warm waters and cool breezes sound good right now? How about "locking and leaving" to sail the seas in style -- and escape -- completely?

To help celebrate the highly anticipated February 10, 2007 opening of the Lennar Home Store at Central Park West, Princess Cruises® has just launched its 2007 Central Park West Princess Cruises Escape Completely® Sweepstakes!

Visit www.cpwliving.com right now and learn how you can enter to win the chance to set sail from Los Angeles or San Diego to embark on a 7-day Mexican Riviera cruise and explore the exotic shorelines and intoxicating cities of Puerta Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, where you’ll be invited to enjoy the culture, worship the sun, savor the fresh air and indulge in incredible cuisine.

"This is the lifestyle of Central Park West," said Denise Hayes, Vice President of Marketing for Lennar’s Orange Coast Land Division, master plan developer of Central Park West. "Our homebuyers are world travelers, people who can lock their front doors and leave, in a moment’s notice, for points unknown. That’s why our partnership with Princess Cruises is so perfect for Central Park West. We both cater to people who live lives of luxury and appreciate conveniences that make their escapes and explorations easier."

To enter for a chance to win the 2007 Central Park West Princess Cruises Escape Completely Sweepstakes, homeshoppers must register online at www.cpwliving.com.

Those previously registered at the website also can log on to begin their registry for the sweepstakes. Once registered, homeshoppers must visit the CPW Living studio in person to complete and submit an entry form beginning on Saturday, February 10, 2007. The fortunate recipient will be notified by mail at the conclusion of the promotion on April 30, 2007.

"What an exciting way to celebrate BOTH the Central Park West lifestyle and the February 10 opening of the Lennar Home Store," said Hayes. "The buzz over Central Park West has been astounding as people discover Irvine’s first urban master-planned community with its fabulous list of resident amenities and convenient advantages. Visit us on February 10 to enter the 2007 Central Park West Princess Cruises Escape Completely Sweepstakes and learn about the lifestyle awaiting you only at Central Park West."

Central Park West has been planned to include a total of 1,380 highly stylized urban residences linked through trails to a showcase "Zen-like" recreational clubhouse as well as an assortment of parks and other cool places, and a large neighborhood retail center adjacent to a four-story office building. Now open near Central Park West is the CPW Living Studio where "people on the go and in the know" visit to learn all about Central Park West.

"On February 10, the Lennar Home Store will open at the CPW Living Studio," said Hayes. "Here, homeshoppers will be invited to learn about the brand new Lennar homes preparing to open for sale soon at Central Park West as well as walk through the high-rise model home of Astoria (now selling), enjoy interactive kiosks, and view a community video created to help you find the perfect home of your dreams."

Lennar currently has three Central Park West enclaves which will make their preview debut during the February event: Granville, a collection of contemporary soft lofts; Maxfield, a modern low-rise neighborhood of soft lofts and townhomes; and Chelsea, a brownstone-inspired townhome neighborhood.

Now available for pre-sales are the high-rise condominium homes of Astoria, where residents will benefit from a number of amenities and services exclusive to Astoria’s 14- and 15-story towers – as well as all the other advantages of Central Park West.

Astoria’s hotel-style amenities are anticipated to include a spacious and elegantly appointed lobby, a business center, ample guest parking, a fully equipped fitness center, and an elevated view terrace with an oversized swimming pool and spa. Residents also will enjoy a beautifully furnished community room, which will be available for private parties.

Homeshoppers can learn more about all the enclaves at Central Park West and enter to win the 2007 Central Park West Princess Cruises Escape Completely Sweepstakes by visiting the CPW Living Studio, open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, situated just off Jamboree Road, at the corner of Michelson and Obsidian. (The Astoria sales center closes at 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.)

Central Park West is located along the northwest corner of Jamboree Road and Michelson Drive, just off the coastal side of the I-405 Freeway. To visit the CPW Living Studio situated across Michelson from the site, exit south on Jamboree from the I-405, turn right on Michelson and left on Obsidian into the Studio’s parking area.

Majestic America Line's 'Empress of the North' Delivers One of Highest Rated Cruise Experiences in the World According to the Readers of Conde Nast Traveler

Seattle January 30, 2007 - Majestic America Line, one of the world's premier river cruise lines and the largest river and coastal cruising company in America, announced today that its 223-guest ship, the Empress of the North, was recognized as one of the highest rated small cruise ships in the world by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler. Judged on seven criteria, the Empress of the North placed eighth in the competitive small ship category for vessels which accommodate fewer than 500 guests. The Empress earned an outstanding overall score of 91.5, with readers awarding a perfect 100 in crew/service. The prestigious honor was published in the 2007 Cruise Poll, an annual guide to the world's top cruise ships.


Epic Journeys

"We're very proud that our outstanding American officers and crew have been recognized for the service they provide our guests," said David A. Giersdorf, President, Majestic America Line. "Reader's choice awards are incredibly important because they directly reflect our guests' satisfaction. Our officers and crew are well known for their warm, attentive service and they work very hard to ensure that every guest is surrounded by the kind of deluxe comfort that makes discovering America on the boutique ships of Majestic America Line a travel experience unlike any other."

This year, Conde Nast Traveler readers rated 230 ships on seven criteria including itineraries, shore excursions, crew/service, cabins, food/dining, activities/facilities and design/layout. In addition to a perfect score for its outstanding crew and service, the Empress of the North, one of Majestic America Line's two vessels that call on Alaska and one of three that ply the historic waters of the Columbia & Snake Rivers, achieved especially high marks for its extraordinary itineraries, included shore excursions and spacious cabins, most featuring private verandahs.

The elegant Empress of the North is one of seven spectacular and unique ships in the Majestic America Line fleet. This state-of-the-art ship was custom built to sail the inland and coastal waters of the United States and to deliver a balance of modern refinement and historical charm. In 2007 the ship will embark on 45 voyages on the rivers of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska's Inside Passage. A journey on board the Empress of the North allows discerning travelers to experience the scenic and historic places and varied cultures that have shaped America through the years.

Guests and travel agents can learn more about traveling on the Empress of the North or any of Majestic America Line's ships by visiting the Web site at www.MajesticAmericaLine.com or by calling 1-800-434-1232.

$100,000 In Prize Money Available in Wild Winners Slot and Blackjack Tournaments Aboard Carnival Fun Ships

Miami January 30, 2007 - Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s most popular cruise operator, and the Ocean Players Club, a casino rewards program for guests sailing aboard the World’s Leading Cruise Lines, have teamed up to host 20 slot and blackjack tournaments throughout 2007 offering more than $100,000 in cash prizes.

The tournaments will be held on 19 different three- to eight-day "Fun Ship" cruises operating January - October 2007, culminating in a "Grand Final Event" aboard the new Carnival Freedom in November.

"With such a wide range of ships, itineraries and departure points, these ‘Wild Winners’ tournaments provide guests with a variety of opportunities to compete in thrilling slot and blackjack tournaments for $100,000 in cash prizes," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

Each of the 19 preliminary tournaments offers $5,000 in cash prizes, with a first prize $2,500 and a complimentary cruise for two on the Carnival Freedom’s Nov. 12 departure to participate in the finals. The "Grand Final Event" held on the Carnival Freedom offers $20,000 in cash prizes for the slot tournament, $10,000 in cash prizes for the blackjack tournament.

Participants are encouraged to pre-register for the tournament via the Ocean Players Club Web site at www.oceanplayersclub.com. Tournament entry fee is $50 per person for the preliminary rounds, $100 per person for the "Grand Final Event."

Tournament dates are as follows:

• Jan. 29 – Fascination – four-day Caribbean cruise from Miami (slot tournament)

• Feb. 10 – Ecstasy – five-day Caribbean cruise from Galveston, Texas (slot tournament)

• Feb. 25 – Carnival Pride – seven-day Mexican Riviera cruise from Long Beach, Calif. (slot/blackjack tournaments)

• March 9 – Fascination – three-day Bahamas cruise from Miami (slot tournament)

• March 22 – Imagination – four-day Caribbean cruise from Miami (slot tournament)

• April 9 – Carnival Legend – four-day Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (slot tournament)

• April 23 – Paradise – four-day Baja cruise from Long Beach (slot tournament)

• May 3 – Carnival Miracle – eight-day Caribbean cruise from New York (slot/blackjack tournaments)

• May 27 – Elation – six-day Baja cruise from San Diego (slot/blackjack tournaments)

• June 12 – Carnival Victory – four-day Canada cruise from New York (slot tournament)

• June 17 – Carnival Liberty – six-day Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale (slot/blackjack tournaments)

• July 9 – Elation – five-day Baja cruise from San Diego (slot tournament)

• July 28 – Carnival Glory – seven-day Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Fla. (slot/blackjack tournaments)

• Aug. 6 – Ecstasy – five-day Caribbean cruise from Galveston (slot tournament)

• Aug. 28 – Carnival Triumph – five-day Caribbean cruise from New Orleans (slot tournament)

• Sept. 7 – Fascination – three-day Bahamas cruise from Miami (slot tournament)

• Sept. 23 – Carnival Liberty – six-day Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale (slot/blackjack tournaments)

• Oct. 1 – Fantasy – five-day Caribbean cruise from New Orleans (slot tournament)

• Oct. 13 – Inspiration – five-day Caribbean cruise from Tampa (slot tournament)

• Nov. 12 – Carnival Freedom – four-day Caribbean cruise from Miami (Grand Final Event)

In addition to experiencing the wide variety of on-board dining, activity and entertainment options aboard the "Fun Ships," "Wild Winners" slot and blackjack tournament participants who pre-register will receive a special Bon Voyage gift. A drawing will also be held each cruise awarding a complimentary cruise for two aboard the Carnival Freedom’s Nov. 12 departure.

Norwegian Cruise Line Inks Environmental Agreement with Port Of Los Angeles

Miami January 29, 2007 - Furthering NCL's continued commitment to the environment, NCL Corporation has signed a multi-year agreement with the Port of Los Angeles that includes several measures designed to support the port’s clean air initiatives.

As of Jan. 1, NCL's Norwegian Star, which is homeported in Los Angeles, has been using only low-sulfur fuel (with less than 0.05 percent sulfur) while at the Port of Los Angeles. Norwegian Star is also participating in the port's Vessel Speed Reduction Program, which limits air emissions by slowing ships to 12 knots or less when within 40 nautical miles of the port.

In addition, NCL will utilize Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) on its vessels when it becomes available to cruise ships at the port in 2008. AMP, more widely known as shore power or "cold ironing", allows vessels to turn off their diesel-burning engines while docked and plug into cleaner, shore side electrical power, reducing air emissions while in port.

"We applaud the Port of Los Angeles for their forward-thinking environmental initiatives," said Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL Corporation. "We are pleased to be in the forefront of port users in implementing the port's Eco-friendly measures."

NCL has completed the initial technical modifications necessary to allow Norwegian Star to plug into the port's AMP program. The second phase, which includes the installation of the plug-in switchboard, is scheduled to take place by the end of the year. Depending on the size of the ship, estimates are that AMP will reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) by one ton and take more than half a ton of sulfur oxides (SOx) out of the air each day a ship is at berth and plugged in.

"The only way to clean the air in and around the Port of Los Angeles is to continue pushing the envelope in reaching new environmental agreements with our partner tenants," said Geraldine Knatz, Port of Los Angeles executive director. "We are very excited about the positive impact of this agreement and we look forward to working closely with NCL as we move forward."

Norwegian Star sails eight-day Mexican Riviera itineraries from Los Angeles January through April 2007 and October 2007 through April 2008.

NCL Corporation Ltd. is an innovative cruise company headquartered in Miami, Florida, with a fleet of 15 ships in service and under construction. The corporation oversees the operations of Norwegian Cruise Line, NCL America, and Orient Lines. The company recently took delivery of its newest ship, Norwegian Pearl, and is currently building Norwegian Gem for delivery in October of 2007.

In addition, NCL plans to build up to three new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery between 2009 and 2011. NCL is on target to have the youngest fleet in the industry by 2010, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea.

Viking River Cruises Elevates Marketing and Sales Organization

Los Angeles January 30, 2007 - Viking River Cruises today announced a major strengthening of its marketing and sales organization in North America. This will mark the appointments of multiple senior executives: Eric Welter, senior vice president marketing and sales North America; Tom Russell, senior vice president sales North America and international; and Richard Marnell, vice president marketing planning.

"I am very pleased to make these announcements, which tremendously strengthen the Viking management team," said Torstein Hagen, chairman, Viking River Cruises. "The fact that we have been able to attract such outstanding executive talents to the Viking team further solidifies Viking's position as the industry leader. With Viking River Cruises bookings already up 25 percent compared to this time last year, we know these new talents will expand our core strengths to ensure further growth and development."

Eric Welter has been appointed senior vice president, marketing and sales, North America. Prior to joining Viking River Cruises, Eric was senior vice president of marketing services at J. Jill, a multi-channel retailer of women's apparel. He also served as vice president of marketing at Geerlings & Wade, a multi-channel marketer of wine, and director of marketing at Grand Circle Corporation. Eric has a strong background in multi-channel and direct marketing, and understands the travel industry well. He has a degree in Statistics and Mathematics from St. Cloud State University in Minn.

Tom Russell has been appointed senior vice president sales North America and international, and will work closely alongside Eric, who is responsible for overall marketing and sales. He will also work hand-in-hand with Mike Wiersema, who remains responsible for North American retail sales. Tom comes from Uniworld, where he was senior vice president of marketing and sales. Prior to that, he held senior marketing and sales positions with Holland America Line, Windstar Cruises and Princess Cruises. Tom was also one of the founding managers of Silversea Cruises, and holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from California State University Dominguez Hills.

Richard Marnell has been appointed vice president market planning, where he will coordinate the overall marketing planning for Viking River Cruises. Richard comes to Viking from J. Jill as well, where he served as operating vice president of direct marketing. Additionally, he has more than 12 years experience in the travel industry, having worked at Grand Circle Corporation and Oversees Adventure Travel. Richard has a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from Fordham University, N.Y., and an MBA from Babson University, Wellesley, Mass.

Royal Caribbean Turns Heads With Top Honors for Public Relations and Marketing

Miami January 31, 2007 - Royal Caribbean International celebrated its highly successful 2006 launch of Freedom of the Seas at the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Adrian Awards in New York City this week. The cruise line swept all major award categories, including "Best of Show" and Yahoo!'s "Big Idea Chair" distinction.

Royal Caribbean's nationally televised three-hour live broadcast on the "TODAY" show from the world's largest and most innovative ship received top honors, taking home the platinum award for "Best Feature Placement Broadcast," and the Freedom of the Seas website was awarded the cruise line's second platinum distinction of the evening for its immersive, user-friendly design. Gold awards were given in five categories: "Best New Ship Launch" for its overall Freedom of the Seas public relations program; "Best Special Event" for its FlowRider event; "Best Feature Placement" for articles in USA Today and TIME; "Best Newsletter" for Freedom of the Seas' Vodcast; and "Best Feature Placement Print/Trade" for its Travel Agent cover story.

A high point in the evening was the presentation of the "Yahoo! Big Idea Chair" award to the team, which recognizes forward-thinking campaigns and the strategic minds behind them. The iconic purple and gold Yahoo! Big Idea Chair will be proudly displayed in the lobby of its corporate offices in Miami.

In addition to these honors, Royal Caribbean's SVP of marketing, Alice Norsworthy, was named one of AdvertisingAge Magazine's top 50 marketing executives for 2006. The magazine credited Norsworthy for the cruise line's initiatives that 'broke through the clutter' and 'delivered real impact' to the cruise line's audiences, guests and partners. Ms. Norsworthy accepted the award at the magazine's ceremony in New York City today.

All 39 Canadian Passengers Safe After MS Nordkapp Runs Aground in Antarctica

Toronto January 31, 2007 - GLP Worldwide Expedition Travel & Tours, Canadian representative for Norwegian Coastal Voyage, would like to reassure Canadians that all 39 Canadian passengers on board the Norwegian Coastal Voyage ship MS Nordkapp are safe and no injuries have been reported after the ship ran aground on Tuesday January 30, 2007 at 2:30 PM local time - just off Deception Island, which is part of the South Shetland Island archipelago in Antarctica. The ship is now anchored off Whalers Bay.

MS Nordnorge arrived at Whalers Bay around 07:00 - 08:00 am this morning local time. All passengers have been transferred to MS Nordnorge, which will then sail directly to Ushuaia, Argentina, arriving on Friday morning (February 2, 2007).

A British navy vessel with divers onboard is on its way to MS Nordkapp, which spans 123-metres and was built in 1996, and will help to inspect the damage. The navy vessel arrived at Whalers Bay this morning. The ship has also offered to provide assistance in escorting MS Nordkapp back to Argentina after the damage has been inspected.

As a matter of routine, the ship has activated oil protection equipment, but no spillage has so far been registered from the ship.

There are a total of 370 persons on board - 294 passengers and a crew of 76. Nineteen nationalities are represented with 39 Canadians on board.

Appointments to the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada

Ottawa January 31, 2007 - The Honorable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced the reappointment of Dr. Michel Larose and the appointment of Mr. Richard Willems to the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada.

"I am pleased that Dr. Larose and Mr. Willems have accepted to serve as members of the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada," said Minister Cannon. "Their collective experience and successes in a variety of fields, as well as the transportation sector, will be tremendous assets to the tribunal."

Dr. Larose holds a bachelor of arts from André Grasset College in Montreal and a medical degree from the University of Montreal. He is currently medical assessor for the Commission des lésions professionnelles, medical director for the Union of Canadian Officers of the Naval Port of Canada, medical director for the Community of Grey Nuns of Montreal as well as counsel member of the Counsel of Doctors, Dentists and Pharmacists of Notre Dame Hospital of Montreal (CHUM). Dr. Larose is a member of the Administrative Counsel of CARE Canada and a former investigative coroner. He has been reappointed to the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada for two years.

Mr. Willems has been pilot in command of a Canadair Challenger for Rogers Telecommunications Limited for over 13 years. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot license as well as two years experience towards an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer license. He has also taken a number of aviation courses throughout his career, covering such topics as international procedures, flight safety crew resource management, weather radar, jet transition, dangerous goods, aircraft accident survival and cabin crew training. Mr. Willems has been appointed to the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada for three years.

David Axson and Princess Cruises Headline Cognos Innovation Center Webinar Feb. 6

Burlington MA February 1, 2007 - Cognos, the world leader in business intelligence and performance management solutions, today announced that Cognos Innovation Center Advisor, David Axson, will keynote a Webinar February 6 to examine the challenges decision-makers face as they strive to gain sustainable competitive advantage by improving performance management processes.

The presentation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Eastern. During the session, Mr. Axson will discuss:

  • Why it is important for companies to look at both improved efficiency and effectiveness
  • How organizations should think about improvements in four critical areas: process quality, staff leverage, risk mitigation and decision quality
  • What quantitative performance improvement opportunities can be expected as decision-making improves

Mr. Axson will be joined by Princess Cruises’ Director of Financial Planning and Analysis, Greg Bozigian, to discuss his company’s award-winning performance management implementation.

Mr. Axson is President of The Sonax Group and co-founder of The Hackett Group. He has served as a Cognos Innovation Center Advisor since its inception in 2004. Mr. Axson has recently authored a book entitled "Best Practices in Planning and Performance Management: From Data to Decisions. The book is the second edition of a highly successful first edition entitled Best Practices in Planning and Management Reporting.

Princess Cruises’ success story is profiled in Mr. Axson’s new book.

Port of Los Angeles Signs Agreement with Norwegian Cruise Line That Includes Multiple Environmental Initiatives

San Pedro CA January 31, 2007 - Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has signed a multi-year agreement with the Port of Los Angeles. This includes commitments to several environmental programs, including the use of alternative maritime power (AMP) on its Norwegian Star ship, which is homeported at the Port of Los Angeles, when it becomes available in 2008.

Environmental program commitments in the agreement include: compliance with the Port’s Vessel Speed Reduction Program which eliminates air emissions by slowing the ship significantly when it comes within 40 nautical miles of the Port; using low sulfur fuel (less than 0.5 percent sulfur) while navigating in and around the Port of Los Angeles; and AMP, also known as cold-ironing, which allows the ship to turn off its diesel-burning engines while at dock and plug into clean, shoreside electrical power.

"The only way we are going to lower port-related air pollution is to continue to push the envelope in reaching new agreements with our partner tenants," said Geraldine Knatz, Ph.D., Port executive director. "This agreement is a new chapter in our relationships with cruise line companies, and we are excited to be working closely with NCL as we move forward."

"We applaud the Port of Los Angeles for their forward-thinking environmental initiatives," said Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL Corporation. "We are pleased to be in the forefront of port users in implementing the port’s Eco-friendly measures."

In November 2006, the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach approved an unprecedented joint action to improve air quality in the South Coast Air Basin called the Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP). The five-year plan is a blueprint for the ports to significantly reduce the health risks posed by air pollution from port-related ships, trains, trucks, terminal equipment and harbor craft. Considered a "living document," the plan allows for updating as new technologies and processes become available. As part of the CAAP, the ports will be utilizing electrical shore power whenever possible, as demonstrated by this latest agreement with NCL.

The Port of Los Angeles is the first and only port in the world currently using AMP technology on container ships. The move to use AMP technology on cruise ships has been under negotiation for some time. Princess Cruise Line has also signed an agreement to utilize AMP technology for its cruise ships at the Port of Los Angeles.

Carnival Freedom's European Cruises: The Ultimate Family Vacation

Miami February 1, 2007 - Families today are seeking interesting vacation options that offer exciting and rewarding experiences. And European cruising -- which combines the opportunity to explore centuries-old cities with amenities and conveniences of a "floating resort" -- offers the ideal all-ages vacation.

Carnival Cruise Lines' new 110,000-ton Carnival Freedom caters to families with activities and facilities for all ages on two different European itineraries.

The 2,974-passenger SuperLiner debuts March 5, 2007, with a nine-day Mediterranean voyage, then begins 12-day Mediterranean and Mediterranean & Greek Isles cruises March 14.

"Families have moved beyond summer road trips toward sharing enriching cultural experiences," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. "A 'Fun Ship' cruise to Europe enables families to enjoy the region's art, architecture and cuisine, then return to the familiar shipboard environment with its specialized programs for children and teens."

Expansive Play Area

A 4,200-square-foot play area anchors Carnival Freedom's "Camp Carnival" program. The facility is divided into five areas: "movie room" featuring kids' favorite films and cartoons, arts-and-crafts center, "soft play area" for toddlers, a gaming area with Play Station 2 consoles, and library of children's books.

"Camp Carnival" play area activities emphasize music, reading, art, geography, science and physical fitness.

Teen Amenities

Teens have an on-board place to call their own in the 1,800-square-foot "Club O2." Designed for ages 15 to 17, the facility includes a dance floor, DJ, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, non-alcoholic specialty drink lounge and game room. A library offers teen-oriented books.

Children ages 12-14 and their parents can enjoy body and beauty treatments on port days in Carnival's YSPA youth spa program. Carnival's teen shore excursions provide counselors to accompany kids ages 12-17 on "just-for-teens" experiences on European voyages.

Family Amenities

Kids and adults alike will enjoy Carnival Freedom's four swimming pools and 214-foot-long "Twister Waterslide."

"Carnival's Seaside Theatre" entertainment center features a 270-square- foot poolside screen displaying movies, concerts and other programming.

Parents, grandparents and children can participate in such multigenerational activities as arts and crafts, "family water play" and make- your-own-sundae sessions.

Carnival Freedom offers dozens of interconnecting staterooms for large families or family gatherings, with discounts for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom.

Babysitting will be available at an hourly rate in the children's playroom after 10 p.m. Strollers, bouncy seats, travel swings and GameBoy portable gaming units can be rented.

Kid-friendly dining options include children's menus, 24-hour pizza and ice cream, a turn-down service providing cookies at bedtime, and the "Fountain Fun Card," which provides unlimited soft drinks for a one-time fee. Children can also dine with the youth counselors on Lido Deck.

Cruising the Mediterranean, Greece, Turkey

Carnival Freedom debuts March 5, 2007, with a nine-day Mediterranean voyage from Venice then launches 12-day "Grand Mediterranean" and "Mediterranean & Greek Isles" cruises March 14, 2007, operating round-trip from Rome (Civitavecchia).

Twelve-day "Grand Mediterranean" cruises visit Naples, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Venice, Italy (two-day call); Messina, Sicily; Barcelona, Spain; Cannes, France; and Livorno, Italy. Twelve-day "Mediterranean & Greek Isles" cruises include Naples, Italy; Rhodes, Greece; Izmir (Ephesus) and Istanbul, Turkey; Athens (Piraeus) and Katakolon, Greece; Livorno, Italy, and an overnight call in Rome (Civitavecchia).

More than 80 shore excursions and a variety of pre- and post-cruise Rome land stays are available.

Industry and Interested Parties Requested to Comment - Public Hearings March 14, 2007

Panama City, Panama, February 2, 2007 - On January 25, 2007, the Panama Canal Authority's (ACP) Board of Directors gave authorization to proceed with a formal proposal to restructure the Canal's pricing system and certain regulations. The proposal was officially published today and can be accessed at www.pancanal.com.

As the world becomes more interconnected - barriers dropping, tariffs reduced - the significance of the Panama Canal and its function in the global supply chain become more important. Shippers moving goods from the U.S. Gulf Coast to Asia can save up to 10 voyage days via the Panama Canal, and vessels traveling from the West Coast of South America to the U.S. East Coast shave an estimated eight to 16 voyage days compared to alternative routes. Given the cost increases in shipbuilding, fuel and vessel operations, the route through the Panama Canal has significantly increased its value to its users.

In addition, the Canal has become more efficient and is transiting more tonnage. Despite these more challenging demands, the Canal continues to increase overall efficiency and reduce transit time. Moreover, in FY 2006, the Canal tied its own 2004 safety record with just 10 accidents out of 14,194 transits - the fewest number of accidents in 81 years.

Proposed changes to the pricing system and Canal regulations include:

* Maximum Displacement Draft vs. Arrival Draft: The ACP is proposing a change for vessels charged based on their displacement to simplify and streamline the process. The Canal proposes that the charge is based upon the maximum displacement draft instead of the arrival draft to assess tolls according to the specified tonnage rate.

* Administrative Changes: Some administrative changes have been made, but these changes will have no economic impact whatsoever. These revisions provide necessary linguistic and grammatical clarifications to the document or reinsert missing words to processes and procedures.

* Passenger Vessels: Regarding passenger vessels, the ACP is proposing an assessment of tolls based on maximum passenger capacity. In general, under this change, large vessels will be charged tolls on a per berth basis, and smaller ships will continue under the Canal tonnage tolls system. These changes are largely due to suggestions from industry representatives and evidence another example of the ACP listening to the industry.

* Tolls: The adjustments and implementation dates of proposed tolls depend on each segment that transits the Canal: container vessels, passenger vessels, general cargo, refrigerated cargo, dry bulk, tankers and vehicle carriers. These adjustments provide Panama Canal price stability for three years. Of note, tolls for non container segments have not increased in the last four years.

"This proposal is well thought out and well researched. We recognize the value of the Panama Canal and its service to the shipping and maritime communities, and, indeed, to global trade. These new prices will allow us to continue providing the industry with the service they want and the service they deserve. At the same time, they will allow us to make the programmed investments for the Panama Canal Master Plan, which proposes to expand the capacity of the existing Canal through the construction of a third set of locks. The industry has continually requested price stability and we have included this in our proposal and extended it until 2009, unparalleled in the industry," said ACP Administrator/CEO Alberto Alemán Zubieta.

Formal consultation on the proposal begins today and will continue until March 12, 2007, at 4:15 p.m. EST. The ACP will consider inputs, suggestions and feedback from interested parties. The ACP welcomes data, opinions, written statements (in English or Spanish) before the above deadline in person, via courier or by mail. In addition, a public hearing will be conducted March 14, 2007, in the "Ascanio Arosemena" auditorium, Balboa, Republic of Panama at 9:00 a.m. EST.


 

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