Washington February 6, 2007 - National Transportation Safety Board Chairman Mark V. Rosenker today announced the selection of Robert P. Scherer to be the NTSB's new Chief Information Officer (CIO).

Mr. Scherer comes to the NTSB from the Bureau of Engraving and Printing where he was Deputy CIO, responsible for the management of IT operations including network operations, enterprise systems, web development and IT user support. Prior to this, he spent 16 years with the U.S. Secret Service in various supervisory capacities in the organization's Information Resources Management Division.

Scherer has extensive experience in application development and data base administration. He completed the National Defense University's Advanced Management and CIO Certification Programs, GSA's Strategic and Tactical Advocates for Results (STAR) Program and the Federal
Executive Institute's Leadership for a Democratic Society Program.

Throughout his career, Scherer has received numerous awards for his contributions in leveraging technology to improve the operational efficiency and delivery of mission services.

Scherer is a graduate of George Washington University, where he received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a major in finance and a Master's degree in information
systems management.

Ottawa February 6, 2007 - The Honorable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today released the long-term strategy to revitalize the passenger and freight ferry service operated by Marine Atlantic Inc. in Newfoundland and Labrador.

"The Government of Canada has heard users' concerns and is responding actively to help stabilize the service over the long term," said Minister Cannon.

The first phase of the strategy includes:

• predictable annual tariff increases on the constitutional route to be adjusted to the Consumer Price Index immediately;
• a fuel surcharge to cover future increases in Marine Atlantic's fuel expense;
• a five-year plan developed by the board of directors outlining specific initiatives to enable the corporation to improve the services to users and achieve operational efficiencies, including a fuel savings plan;
• advancement of the fleet renewal plan; and
• additional funding in the amount of $54 million per year for the next five years.

The second phase of the strategy will comprise an extensive capital project for the renewal of the fleet, to be submitted to Ministers for approval within the next two years.

"This strategy has been carefully developed to ensure an economically viable Marine Atlantic ferry service," said Minister Cannon. "This approach strikes a balance between the Canadian taxpayer's contribution to the service, the stakeholder's share of the cost of the service, and the Crown corporation's effort to contain operational expenses."

"Marine Atlantic's ferry service is a key transportation link for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador as well as an integral part the provincial economy. I am pleased the Minister approves of the long-term plan put forward by the corporation and that he is committed to upgrading the fleet. The first phase will be to plan a replacement charter vessel as early as 2008," said Rob Crosbie, the chair of the board of directors.

Marine Atlantic Inc., a Crown corporation, was created in 1986 to operate the ferry service between Port aux Basques, Newfoundland and Labrador and North Sydney, Nova Scotia and fulfills a constitutional obligation for Canada. Marine Atlantic Inc. also provides a summer season service between Argentia, Newfoundland and Labrador and North Sydney, Nova Scotia. The corporation has a board of directors responsible for overseeing the corporation's management and ensuring that Marine Atlantic's activities are in line with federal government priorities.

In 2005, the corporation's vessels carried more than 418,000 passengers and close to 87,000 commercial vehicles. The corporation remains fully committed to providing safe, environmentally responsible and efficient ferry services between Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia.

Funding will be subject to meeting applicable federal requirements.

In 1949, when the province of Newfoundland (and Labrador today) joined the Canadian Confederation, the ferry service between mainland Canada and the province was accorded special constitutional status under Term 32(1) of the Terms of Union (The Newfoundland Act, 1949). This term guarantees that the Government of Canada will maintain a year-round ferry service for freight and passengers between North Sydney, Nova Scotia and Port aux Basques, Newfoundland and Labrador, in accordance with the traffic offering.

The service was delivered by Canadian National Marine until 1986 when Marine Atlantic Inc. (MAI), a federal Crown corporation, was created to operate the service. MAI delivers the only constitutional ferry service in Canada. The company also operates a non-constitutional, seasonal service from June to September between North Sydney, Nova Scotia and Argentia, Newfoundland and Labrador. MAI owns and operates four ocean going, ice-class vessels, one of which is used for commercial traffic only.

The ferry service is a critical Intermodal transportation link to Newfoundland and Labrador. It carries approximately 27 per cent of all passengers, approximately 50 per cent of all freight and 90 per cent of all perishables (e.g. food, pharmaceuticals) to and from the province. MAI also carries most of the hazardous goods entering Newfoundland and Labrador.

In 1997, major structural changes were made to MAI when the Bay of Fundy services were commercialized. The Newfoundland and Labrador government took over the coastal services and the Confederation Bridge, which resulted in the closure of the Prince Edward Island ferry service. MAI's reference levels were reduced from $144.5M in 1992 to $36.9M in 1996. Newfoundland Dockyard, a subsidiary shipbuilding company, was also sold.

MAI's passenger traffic has decreased since 2003 and is now at the same level it was in 1997. Commercial traffic however has increased and represents approximately 70 per cent of total ferry traffic.

MAI has approximately 900 full-time employees. Bargaining units represent approximately 97 per cent of these with six separate unions.

The following is a comprehensive look at the details of the long-term strategy to revitalize Marine Atlantic Inc. (MAI)

The first phase of the strategy includes:

• adjusting the predictable annual tariff increases on the constitutional route to the Consumer Price Index immediately. Marine Atlantic's rates are among the lowest in North America on a per-kilometer basis;
• a fuel surcharge to cover future increases in Marine Atlantic's fuel expense. The Government of Canada has been funding the extraordinary cost increase of fuel since 2003;
• a five-year plan, developed by the board of directors, outlining specific initiatives to enable the corporation to improve services to users and achieve operational efficiencies, including a fuel savings plan. To keep the service affordable, the plan should include cost containment measures, and strategies to increase revenues from non-constitutional services;
• advancement of the fleet renewal plan. MAI will complete additional costing and design work. This will provide additional information regarding all the costs associated with new builds as well as mid-life refits, thus enabling a final decision on the upgraded fleet; and
• additional funding in the amount of $54 million per year for the next five years above the current reference level of $37 million per year, recognizing the growing costs of pensions, fuel and maintenance.

The second phase of the strategy will comprise an extensive capital project for the renewal of the fleet, to be submitted to Ministers for approval within the next two years.

MAI funds its operational and capital requirements with revenue from fares, ancillary services and federal appropriations.

Since 2000, MAI has been experiencing increasing deficits and has received a total of $191.1 million in additional funding from the federal government (beyond the approved reference level of $36.9 million per year).

*Note: Annual payments on MAI's loan from the fiscal framework for the MV Leif Ericsson, (purchased in March 2000 for $77.2M), reduces the reference level from $36.9M to $27M.

The increasing deficits are due to slow revenue growth and rising costs, particularly in fuel and legally mandated pension contributions, including commitments for the discontinued services. For example, fuel costs increased an annual average of 15 per cent in the past five years. The 2006 fuel expense is approximately $26 million. Pension liability increased an annual average of 84 per cent in the past five years. The 2006 pension liability is approximately $23.5 million.

Revenues have not kept pace with these rising costs. The Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities approves MAI's passenger and vehicle tariffs. These tariffs were frozen in 2000 and 2001 and again in 2005 and 2006. From 1999 to 2005, expenses (10 per cent per year) increased at a faster rate than revenues (4.5 per cent per year). This gap has resulted in an average increase in federal appropriations of 16.2 per cent per year between 1999 and 2005.

MAI's rates are among the lowest of major ferry operations in North America on a cost-per- kilometer basis, for passenger vehicles on both the Port aux Basques and Argentia routes. On the Port aux Basques service, the cost for a passenger in a vehicle to cross is approximately half of the average rate of the other ferry services in North America.

A long-term rate policy linked to the Consumer Price Index is part of the long-term plan. This approach includes the principles of fairness and predictability, and treats fares for constitutional service separately from non-constitutional fares and discretionary services. Industry practices were also considered.

To ensure that tariffs on the constitutional route remain fair and reasonable, annual increases will be linked to the Consumer Price Index, expected to be 2.1 per cent in 2007.

The board of directors will be responsible to set fees for tariffs on the non-constitutional route and all service charges on both routes.

Since 2003, MAI's fuel expense has risen by $9 million per year. This extraordinary increase has not been passed to the user and has been carried by the taxpayer. The proposed formula mirrors the approach taken by other large ferry operators, whereby fuel expenses are analyzed on a monthly/quarterly basis in comparison with the same month/quarter of the previous year, and the increase is passed on to the user. To mitigate the impact on the user, Marine Atlantic will be asked to provide a five-year fuel savings plan that outlines short- and long-term measures that can be implemented to reduce fuel consumption. This will reduce the fuel surcharge, which is based in part on MAI's fuel consumption, and will benefit the environment as well.

MAI must satisfy Canada's constitutional obligation to transport all ferry traffic demand commensurate with the traffic offering. It is important that the capability to handle the traffic offering exists over the five-year planning period.

Considering current traffic projections and the age and limitations of the Atlantic Freighter, it would be prudent to forecast additional capacity to MAI's fleet as early as 2008 in order to ensure that MAI can meet the federal government's constitutional obligation to Newfoundland and Labrador. Traffic trends, traffic patterns, and operational efficiency and capacity of the fleet will be monitored to ensure that a cost-effective charter is available when needed.

Further cost benefit and feasibility studies are required before final approval and funding can be provided for the fleet renewal. The optimal configuration and design of the new ships and specific requirements for mid-life refits needs to be determined and costs examined. Sound planning is essential to ensure that a project of this magnitude is delivered at a reasonable cost to the taxpayer and with minimal disruption to the user, in order to avoid cost overruns and overdue delivery dates. With this information, the extensive capital project will be submitted to Ministers for approval. This will be part of the second phase of the long-term strategy to revitalize Marine Atlantic.

Phoenix February 6, 2007 - Randall B. Jackson, chief executive officer of Residential Cruise Line Ltd. (RCL), announces the Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Aker Yards to build the world's largest residential cruise ship, the Magellan. Aker Yards, a part of the Aker Group, is one of the largest and most renowned shipbuilders in the world.

"We selected Aker Yards as our shipyard of choice for their proven track record of building world-class, sophisticated and innovative ships," said Randall B. Jackson. "The Memorandum of Understanding is our first step in building the most luxurious residential cruise ship ever built."

Designed by the internationally acclaimed Norwegian firm of Petter Yran and Bjorn Storbraaten Architects A.S., the Magellan offers fractional and full-ownership of luxuriously appointed residences and penthouses as well as such unprecedented amenities as a full-service retractable marina, on-call private Bell 429 helicopters, a 450-seat satellite broadcast capable theater and 24-hour on-call concierge service to name just a few. Private residences on the Magellan range in price from $1.875 million to $8 million for penthouses and from $156,250 for fractional ownership residences.

Honolulu February 6, 2007 - Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has named Direct Line Cruises as its 2006 Fastest Growing Agency of the Year. The award was presented to Direct Line Cruises on board Norwegian Pearl during the ship's inaugural cruise.

NCL chose New York-based Direct Line Cruises as its 2006 Fastest Growing Agency of the Year based on the company achieving the highest percentage growth of any NCL travel partner. In light of the growth, Direct Line Cruises was inducted into the exclusive NCL President's Club Elite. President's Club Elite members represent the top 10 producers overall in North America, as well as five additional agencies who meet the President's Club revenue threshold and demonstrate the highest percentage growth year over year. Direct Line Cruises was already a Silver Captain's Club Member with NCL; however, their incredible growth in 2006 took them to the highest growth level within President's Club.

"In a short time, Direct Line Cruises has achieved significant growth selling NCL, and we are honored to name them our Fastest Growing Agency of the Year," said Andy Stuart, NCL's executive vice president of marketing, sales and passenger services. "In addition to phenomenal sales in their first year, Direct Line Cruises has done an excellent job of understanding and communicating the genuine differentiation offered by NCL with Freestyle Cruising."

Since its beginning in 1995, Direct Line Cruises has grown to become one of the largest official agencies for the cruise industry. From its corporate headquarters in Hauppauge, New York, Direct Line Cruises now handles reservations for more than 25,000 cruise passengers throughout the United States and the number is rapidly increasing every year.

'We are thrilled to receive NCL's Fastest Growing Agency of the Year," said Greg Coiro, CEO of Direct Line Cruises. "Over the past year, we worked very closely with NCL to learn how to successfully sell NCL and Freestyle Cruising to our clients. The response from our clients has been overwhelmingly positive, so we look forward to an even more successful 2007."

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.

Los Angeles February 6, 2007 - Conde Nast Traveler, the leading travel publication for truth in travel, recently released its "Top-80 Cruise Ships In The World" list, recognizing five ships from the Viking River Cruises fleet in the small ships category. This year, Viking Sky, Viking Century Sky, Viking Europe, Viking Spirit and Viking Burgundy ships were rated by subscribers of the magazine.

Each year, Conde Nast Traveler subscribers are invited to rate cruise ships on a 100-point scale. Ships are judged on seven criteria, including: itineraries, shore excursions, crew/service, cabins, food/dining, activities/facilities, and design/layout. Both Viking Sky and Viking Century Sky received the highest marks possible for itineraries and shore excursions in the magazine's annual reader's poll. In addition to the inclusion in the top cruise ship list, earlier this year; Viking River Cruises was featured on the coveted Conde Nast Traveler Gold List.

"It is always a great honor to be recognized by the travel community but it is the ultimate endorsement when it comes from your customers," says Torstein Hagen, Founding Chairman of Viking River Cruises. "We continually strive to provide our customers with in-depth cultural experiences -- both onboard and off, and it is gratifying to know that we are meeting and even exceeding our valued traveler's expectations."

Viking River Cruises offers 17 different itineraries on the waterways of Europe, Russia and China that range from seven to 15 nights. Travelers interested in the Three Gorges Dam and other wonders of China sail aboard the newest and most luxurious ships on the Yangtze via Viking Century Sky or its sister ship Viking Century Sun. When in Europe, passengers can enjoy the luxuries that Viking Sky, Viking Europe, Viking Spirit or Viking Pride offer, including spacious all-outside cabins, onboard gourmet meals and Old World Highlights, like lectures or demonstrations.

London February 6, 2007 - Integer Research will host the third annual diesel emissions conference in Frankfurt this June 26-27. 'Diesel Emissions Conference 07' will raise the topical issues of how new European heavy-duty diesel emissions regulations (known as Euro V&VI) are impacting truck manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, fuel suppliers and commercial vehicle operators. This year's conference also looks ahead to discuss the new engine technologies and business strategies that will enable the transport industry to embrace further emissions reductions as Euro VI regulations are drafted.

The conference program features many of the leading decision-makers in emissions strategy, representing truck manufacturers, oil companies, AdBlue suppliers, governments and parts manufacturers. The keynote presentations will be delivered by Dr. Thomas Schlick, the Managing Director of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) and Mr. Rudolf Ellensohn, General Manager of Iveco Motorenforschung AG.

The Diesel Emissions Conference 07 will focus on new engine technology solutions to ever-stricter emissions limits and the all-new line-up of speakers includes many of the world's largest component suppliers. They are at the leading edge of powertrain systems design and development: conference delegates will gain an insight into the very latest strategies towards a low-emission transport future.

AdBlue - the urea-based fluid used in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) vehicles - has become a significant subject for truck operators and fuel suppliers. The conference will discuss the way the AdBlue market has developed since the Euro V heavy-duty diesel truck emissions limits were implemented in October 2006. Importantly, the same technology is now being used in light-duty and passenger vehicles - exclusive sessions will examine the impact of new powertrain technology on these markets.

The world's major commercial vehicle and catalyst manufacturers and AdBlue suppliers will come together at Diesel Emissions Conference 07 in a series of exclusive presentations to lift the lid on technology innovations, challenges and opportunities and strategies. They'll be joined by many of Europe's major diesel suppliers, including Shell and Total. And public transport operator Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (Transport for Berlin) will discuss its experience of introducing Euro 4&5 vehicles and its decision to focus on the introduction of hydrogen vehicles for the future instead.

Harmonization between different regional standards in Europe, North America and Asia will be a key theme in emissions reduction strategy over the coming years. Integer Research has brought together a group of expert speakers from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Society of Indian Automotive Manufacturers (SIAM) to point the way towards greater standards harmonization without losing commercial or environmental advantage in different territories.

The Diesel Emissions Conference 07 is the independent meeting place for senior executives who need to keep their finger on the pulse of emissions regulations and understand the long-term implications for their commercial operations and technological development strategy. The website for registrations and the full program listing is www.integer-research.com/conference.

Los Angeles February 5, 2007 - From high above the Greenland Icecap in a De Havilland DASH-7 to an exclusive snorkeling adventure in the protected waters of Italy's Bay of Ieranto, Crystal Cruises continues to raise the bar on active and engaging shoreside adventure. This summer, the award-winning luxury cruise line debuts more than 100 new Crystal Adventures in Europe. Effective February 15, all of the 679 shore excursions, each with its own unique focus on active, cultural and culinary enrichment, will be posted online for preview and booking.

From April 7 through November 9, 2007, the ultra-luxurious Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will offer 29 destination-rich itineraries ranging from seven to 14 days. With overnight stays in 15 of the world's grandest ports of call, sophisticated travelers enjoy the luxury of choice among itineraries, destinations and activity ashore.

"The tour choices in each destination are staggering -- whether one is seeking cultural enrichment or more active pursuits," says John Stoll, Crystal Cruises' director, land programs. "What's more, given the dollar's weak standing against the Euro, savvy travelers will appreciate the exceptional value of a Crystal cruise, as everything -- including shore tours -- is offered in US dollars. Our unique combination of choice, quality, service and value is particularly compelling this year."

All shore tours can be researched, priced and pre-reserved online prior to departure. New tour highlights include:

• An overnight journey to Berlin aboard the ICE (InterCityExpress) train (from Hamburg).

• A visit to the new Porsche Factory Leipzig for a Cayenne test drive on the factory's racetrack (from Warnemunde).

• MiG fighter jet flight over Moscow extended to a two-night overland
• adventure (from St. Petersburg).

• A speedboat adventure in the Baltic Sea (from Helsinki).

• A chartered plane to Dresden (from Warnemunde).

• Bicycling excursions in Amsterdam, Hamburg, Funchal and the South of France.

• A nine-mile trek through St. Emilion's finest vineyards and estates in Bordeaux.

• An exclusive wine tasting and dinner at the 18th century Chateau Kirwan (from Bordeaux).

• An exclusive cooking lesson in Sorrento.

Crystal's European cruises depart from Athens, Greece; Copenhagen, Denmark; Istanbul, Turkey; London, England; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Rome, Italy; Stockholm, Sweden; Toulon, France; and, Venice, Italy, with pre- and post-cruise hotel stays available in all cities except Toulon. Depending on itinerary selected, per person, double occupancy fares begin at $2,780.

Seattle February 5, 2007 - There are thrills aplenty available to Holland America Line guests booking optional shore excursions in Alaska. Glacier View Bike & Brew in Juneau combines scenic bicycling through spectacular rainforests followed by a tour and tasting at Alaska Brewery or in Sitka snap perfect photos on the Photography Tour. In Seward, meet an Iditarod champion on the new "Ididaride" Wilderness Sled Dog Ride & Tour. On all Alaska Cruises (Porthole magazine bestowed its 2006 Readers' Choice Awards to Holland America Line for Best Alaska Itineraries) and CruiseTours, guests have the opportunity to fully experience each destination through a wide variety of optional in-depth and exciting excursions. For 2007, Holland America Line has added more than 10 new excursions to complement its already extensive list and three new post-cruise excursions in Seattle.

"Our diverse selection of shore excursions allows guests to create their own personal Alaska experience," said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Alaska is a destination that offers excursions unlike any other region -- wildlife, wilderness, cultural and historical. We make sure our guests not only have an enjoyable cruise, but a memorable one."

With more than 230 excursions, many to National Parks, Holland America Line's excursions get up close and personal with glaciers, mountains, sea life and unique personalities. New excursions are being introduced in Haines, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Sitka, Skagway and Seattle. Offbeat Haines tour takes guests to three of Haines' most unusual and out-of-the-way attractions - the Hammer Museum, Extreme Dreams Art Studio and Dalton City. Or lace up the hiking boots and head out on the Haines Adventure Hike, which immerses guests in the incredible beauty of SE Alaska. In Seward, gaze at the expansive views and beauty of the Resurrection Valley on the Resurrection River Float trip, and in charming Skagway relax and see the Highlights & unique Jewell Gardens.

Favorite excursions continue to be Helicopter Flightseeing & Glacier Trek; Musher's Camp and Dog Sled Adventure; Alaska Bear Adventure by Floatplane; Tatoosh Islands Sea Kayaking; and the Eagle Preserve Float Adventure -- a float trip through the world famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. In the Yukon, guests have the opportunity to explore majestic Kluane National Park by foot, cultural cruise, fishing tour or river rafting, and rugged Tombstone Territorial Park, by motor vehicle or hiking one of three trails with a guide. For CruiseTour guests seeking an authentic Alaska experience, the Anaktuvuk Pass Adventure, takes guests to the remote Nunamiut Eskimo village of Anaktuvuk to discover their way of life. This excursion is available as a post-tour from Fairbanks. Most excursions are suitable for families and many are available for guests with disabilities.

Baltimore February 7, 2007 - The Scholar Ship today announced the lease of a 29,000-ton ocean liner that will become the first oceangoing education program developed specifically for an international student body. The application deadline for the September voyage is April 30.

The Scholar Ship will transform the 660-foot (201 meters) ocean liner to accommodate 600 undergraduate and graduate students in a multicultural academic and living environment. The ship, which will be re-named The Scholar Ship, has 389 staterooms that can accommodate 778 students and faculty, as well as 416 crewmembers. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. provides funding and operational support for The Scholar Ship.

The Scholar Ship will make its maiden voyage in September 2007 from Piraeus (Athens), Greece and sail westward on a compelling itinerary that includes stops in Lisbon, Portugal; Panama City, Panama; Guayaquil, Ecuador; Papeete, Tahiti; Suva, Fiji; Sydney, Australia; Shanghai, China; and Okinawa and Kobe, Japan. In addition to the program's extensive onboard curriculum, each port of call provides a distinct educational platform from which students engage in academic field study, shore excursions, and independent travel.

"Finding a vessel we could transform into an oceangoing campus was a unique challenge," said Michael Bonner, chief operating officer of The Scholar Ship. "We wanted a ship with ample public space, expansive outdoor deck areas, comfortable staterooms, and appropriately sized rooms to conduct classes. After nearly a year of reviewing dozens of alternatives, we found a vessel that is ideally suited for our program. It is a classic ocean liner with a deep-draft hull, spacious rooms and decks designed specifically for longer global voyages."

Seven highly respected international universities have collaborated on the development of The Scholar Ship's rigorous onboard and port programs. The Scholar Ship's Consortium of Academic Stewards includes the University of California, Berkeley (United States), Macquarie University (Australia), Fudan University (China), Tecnologico de Monterrey (Mexico), Al Akhawayn University (Morocco), University of Ghana (Sub-Saharan Africa), and Cardiff University (United Kingdom).

"The Scholar Ship's student diversity is distinctive among shipboard study programs," said Dr. Joseph Olander, president of The Scholar Ship and a prolific author and esteemed university president in the U.S. and abroad. "Of the students requesting applications, the Americas represent 36 percent of student interest, Europe/Middle East/Africa -- 44 percent and Asia Pacific -- 20 percent. The faculty and onboard staff are similarly diverse."

"The response from such a broad group of students has been impressive," said Olander. "Our distinctive education abroad model is catching on, in part because we provide a unique approach to immerse students in a multicultural environment that would be virtually impossible to create anywhere else."

Program fees are approximately USD $20,000 per semester. A two million dollar scholarship fund has been established for the 2007/2008 academic year to broaden the availability of this program to students from diverse backgrounds. Scholarships will be awarded based on academic merit and economic need.

Los Angeles February 8, 2007 - Ever dream of cruising on your own private yacht? Picasso Tours & Cruises can make those dreams come true with its affordable Blue Cruises along the Turkish Turquoise Coast, known for its crystal clear waters, spectacular bays and islands, and lush green coastline.

For as little as $275 per person, double occupancy or $412.50 for singles, travelers can enjoy just the cruise for eight days/seven nights onboard schooner-rigged yachts or traditional wooden built ketches known as gulets. The Turkish ports of call include Marmaris, Ekincik, Fethiye, Gocek Islands, Oludeniz, Agalimani, Kumblubuk, Kadirga and Turunc. Three daily meals are included on the cruise. Departures from Marmaris are every Saturday from April through October.

By including a pre-cruise option, the trip is extended to 10 days/nine nights for the opportunity to see Istanbul beginning at $589 per person, double occupancy or $685 for singles. In addition to the cruise, the package includes two nights hotel accommodations in Istanbul with daily breakfast, half-day Istanbul city tour, roundtrip flights between Istanbul and Marmaris, airport transfer for Marmaris flight on Saturday and roundtrip transfers from Marmaris airport to port. Departures for land and cruise packages are every Thursday from April through October.

The gulet yachts are 60-80 ft. long boats with four to 12 cabins, each with double berth and private facilities. The crew consists of a captain, cook and deck hand. The yacht is equipped with a galley and bar. Any sailor on board can participate in food preparation if desired.

Santa Clarita February 8, 2007 - Long known as a leader in romance, Princess Cruises is stepping up its commitment to love. In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the hit TV series The Love Boat, famously set aboard a Princess ship, the company is debuting a new Department of Romance made up of a "dream team" of romance experts, and is launching a number of new "romantic pursuits" on its ships and on its web site.

Princess has tapped noted relationship experts to serve in its new Department of Romance -- prominent dating and romance guru Trish McDermott, everyone's favorite couples therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer, seasoned wedding planner Alba Carreras, and America's favorite Love Boat captain, Gavin MacLeod. Together, these authorities will guide and inspire the line's passengers to rediscover romance, and incorporate it into their everyday lives.

"I don't think there's any better company to be an expert in romance than Princess Cruises," says MacLeod, former Captain Stubing of The Love Boat. "Ever since our show launched -- which is 30 years ago this year -- I have been amazed by the number of passengers who come up to me and share their romantic stories, for instance that they met their future spouse onboard, or that a moment on the cruise brought them closer together. Princess is synonymous with love on the high seas, and I'm delighted to play a role in helping couples embrace this important aspect of our lives."

"We consider the art of romance so integral to our passenger experience that it makes sense for us to dedicate an entire department to the cause," says Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president.

The department has planned a busy 2007, with a variety of romantic pursuits scheduled to launch throughout the year:

• Romance by Room Service -- Couples who want to snuggle up in their stateroom can create the perfect atmosphere by ordering Princess' new "Romance by Room Service" package which includes a special presentation of champagne and chocolate, scattered fresh rose petals and flameless scented candles, all set to a background of romantic music. Adding the line's "Ultimate Balcony" dinner provides all the ideal ingredients for a romantic evening.

• "Become a Certified Romantic" ScholarShip@Sea Course -- For couples seeking to rekindle the romantic side of their relationship, Princess will be introducing an entertaining new class for its popular ScholarShip@Sea learning program -- Become a Certified Romantic. The course will offer tools on how couples can rediscover romance, as well as tips for sustaining romance long after passengers return home from their cruise.

• Romance TV -- The romantic cabin ambience will be enhanced with the introduction of in-stateroom Romance TV programming featuring timeless romance movies such as "An Affair to Remember" and "Sleepless in Seattle."

• Daily Romance Advice -- Passengers aboard Princess ships will receive daily reminders on how to celebrate and strengthen their relationships, as the daily Princess Patter activities program will feature a romantic tip or quotation to inspire affection.

• Virtual Romance -- A new section of the Princess website will be devoted exclusively to the subject of romance, with tips, Q&As, resource information for romantic travelers, articles from the department experts and more.

• Romance Report -- A semi-annual Princess Romance Report will debut on February 14th, in which the company's romance experts sound off on the "state of love" with facts, stats and forecasted trends.

These programs, to be launched with the debut of Emerald Princess this coming April, will join Princess' already existing line up of amenities and services for travelers with romance on their minds. Princess was the first -- and is still currently the only -- major North American cruise line on which passengers can be wed at sea by the ship's captain (with the "Tie the Knot" Wedding Program). And in 2006, Princess launched a unique "Engagement Under the Stars" program for passengers who want to "pop the question" with a surprise videotaped proposal on the ship's 300-square-foot LED Movies Under the Stars screen.

"As our lives get busier and more complex, romance easily drops to the bottom of our 'to-do' lists," says Swartz. "We want to remind our passengers that it's important to rediscover those connections that brought them together in the first place."

Miami February 8, 2007 - Carnival Corporation & plc and Orizonia Corporacion, Spain's largest travel company which operates its own cruise fleet under its Iberojet division, today announced the signing of a letter of intent to form a joint venture to operate and expand the existing Iberojet Cruceros brand in Spain.

Iberojet Cruceros operates two modern cruise ships, the 834-passenger Grand Voyager, built in 2000, and the 1,196-passenger Grand Mistral, constructed in 1999, which represent the newest ships in the contemporary Spanish cruise market. The new joint venture would eventually be comprised of a multi-ship fleet serving the rapidly expanding Spanish vacation sector.

Under the proposed agreement, the two existing vessels would be transferred to the joint venture company. The intention is to grow that fleet over the next several years through the acquisition of existing tonnage from Carnival Corporation & plc's current fleet.

"Iberojet operates a very successful cruise brand, along with a wide range of quality and affordable vacation products, which have garnered extremely strong brand awareness with Spanish consumers. With their extensive experience marketing in Spain, combined with a keen understanding of Spanish vacation trends, Iberojet provides a solid partnership for expanding in one of the fastest-growing segments of the European vacation industry," said Micky Arison, Carnival Corporation & plc's chairman and CEO.

Commented Pedro de Esteban, Orizonia's chairman and managing director of The Carlyle Group, Orizonia's principal shareholder, "We are very proud in partnering with Carnival, the world's leader in the cruise vacation business. With Carnival's support and expertise, we intend to continue expanding our operations, adding high quality vessels and providing specialized top services to our Spanish customers."

Added Gabriel M. Subias, Orizonia Corporacion's CEO, "It is a great opportunity for us and Iberojet Cruceros to join forces and develop a strategic alliance with Carnival, a world leader in cruising. Through the years, we have always enjoyed close professional and personal relationships with Carnival. Our collaboration in the development of a successful joint venture will position us as the preeminent Spanish cruise operator."

Under the proposed transaction, the Iberojet cruise business being contributed to the joint venture company will be valued at Euro 320 million, with Euro 180 million in debt, representing a net capital value of Euro 140 million. Carnival will own 75 percent of the joint venture with Iberojet owning 25 percent.

Iberojet Cruceros would utilize the current Iberojet cruise management team with its president Alfredo Serrano reporting to the joint venture's board of directors. It is expected that Pier Luigi Foschi, chairman and CEO of Carnival's Costa Cruises unit, will serve as chairman of the board of the joint venture. Costa already has a strong presence in the Spanish sector.

"With the combined strengths of the Costa and Iberojet organizations, the new joint venture should generate even greater brand recognition in our efforts to grow the interest in cruising in a market that we believe is primed and ready for expansion," Foschi said.

Carnival expects the transaction to be neutral to earnings on an annualized basis for the 12-month period following the transaction closing. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2007, pending approval of both companies' boards of directors, all necessary regulatory approvals, customary due diligence and execution of definitive agreements.

Celebrity Cruises Connects Travelers With True Alaska

Miami February 8, 2007 - Whether guests long to glide along the Alaskan coastline in a 20-foot open-air fishing boat, travel by float plane to Anan Creek for a once-in-a-lifetime bear-viewing, or explore the wines and cheeses of British Columbia's Fraser Valley, Celebrity Cruises' new Alaska shore excursions are an ideal way to complement the line's stunning cruise and cruisetour itineraries through the Land of the Midnight Sun. Highlights of Celebrity's new Alaska excursions include:

Ketchikan, Alaska

• Neets Bay Bear Cruise -- Guests can enjoy a narrated drive to Clover Passage before traveling by high-speed boat to Neets Bay to watch black bears search for salmon in their native streams. From the boat, guests may photograph and videotape the bears, eagles and seals in the area.
• Anan Creek Bear Watch -- Nature lovers can travel by float plane to one of the only places in the world to watch -- and photograph -- both brown and black bears feeding on salmon. Guests also may spy bald eagles perching in the surrounding trees waiting for scraps left by the bears, seals feeding on the harvest in the lagoon, and mink, marten and wolf wending their way through the wilderness.
• Exclusive Skiff Touring -- Guests can get closer to the beauty of Alaska aboard a private 20-foot, open-air skiff and customize the Alaskan adventure of their dreams, whether that includes fishing for salmon, halibut, or crab; scouting for wildlife; or hiking the ancient forest. A personal guide navigates and narrates, taking travelers to special, out-of-the-way places favored by the locals.
• Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour -- Guests set sail on the same vessel seen on the Discovery Channel's(TM) popular Deadliest Catch(TM) program, modified for safety and comfort, on the calm, protected seas of southeast Alaska. Seasoned fishermen share their stories of the Bering Sea and its plentiful catches. As lines are pulled up, species brought to the surface are placed in a live tank for observation or gently released back into the wild.
• Historical Steam Paddle Wheel Waterfront Cruise -- Guests who board an authentic steam-powered stern-wheeler are transported back in time to the days of gold fever. Steam engines from 1884 power the paddle wheel, musicians dressed in period-wear entertain, and a naturalist reviews the area's history, including Creek Street, the town's former red light district and Whiskey Cove, where rumrunners hid their whiskey during prohibition.
• Totem Bight State Park and Lumberjack Show -- This tour combines Southeast Alaska's rich native heritage and the rough-and-tumble pursuits of hardy pioneers. At The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, lumberjacks put their skills to the test in an action-packed competition. Guests also visit Totem Bight State Park and walk through a hemlock forest to an old Indian campsite filled with ancient totem poles.
• Totems, Native Heritage and City Highlights -- This tour combines the best of Ketchikan's culturally rich heritage, natural beauty and bawdy past. It includes visits to Potlatch Totem Park, where indigenous natives first settled; Deer Mountain Eagle Center, which features storytelling, totems, a bonded pair of American Bald Eagles and other birds of prey; and visits to the Creek Street haunts of bootleggers and gamblers.

Skagway, Alaska

• White Pass Railway and City Highlights -- Guests board an 1890's-style parlor car and retrace early gold seekers' original route -- built over 100 years ago -- up to the Yukon's White Pass Summit in Fraser, British Columbia. Other highlights include the historical areas of Brackett Wagon Road, Pitch Fork Falls, Dead Horse Gulch, the Tormented Valley, downtown Skagway and the Gold Rush Cemetery.
• Yukon Exploration -- Guests travel into the Yukon by deluxe motorcoach along the historic Trail of 98 Degrees to the White Pass Summit and into the Yukon. This excursion features visits to Moore Bridge, Bove Island, Tormented Valley, and Carcross, and a photo-op at the "Welcome to the Yukon" sign. A stop at Caribou Crossing Trading Post includes lunch and a visit with Yukon Quest mushers and their playful pups.
• Yukon Exploration and Suspension Bridge -- This excursion includes the same features as the Yukon Exploration excursion, but also features a stop at the Yukon Suspension Bridge, located above the rapids of the Tutshi River. Guests experience jaw-dropping views when traversing the bridge at nearly 57 feet above the rapids.

Icy Strait Point, Alaska

• Hoonah Sightseeing and Tribal Dance -- Hoonah is Alaska's largest Tlingit village, and this excursion offers guests the opportunity to glimpse authentic Alaska life. A local guide details the experiences of Huna Tlingits who were forced from their ancestral lands of Glacier Bay by the advancing glaciers, those who lived through the epic fire of 1944 that burned the entire village to the ground, and more. At the Native Heritage Center Theater, the Huna Tlingit perform and dance in their colorful regalia, proudly sharing their history through interpretive song, dance and storytelling.

Vancouver, British Columbia

• Chef and Chauffeur with Airport Drop-off -- After debarking the ship and claiming their luggage, guests embark on a culinary adventure through some of the best food and wine experiences that the Fraser Valley has to offer. This first-class culinary adventure includes secrets gleaned from trail-blazing local chefs, farmers, fishermen, winemakers and cheese artisans, all of whom produce common things uncommonly well. Farms and vineyards include Swift Aqua Culture, Farmhouse Natural Cheeses, Limbert Mountain Farm, Fort Wine Company, and either Vista D' Oro or Domaine de Chaberton. An al fresco gourmet lunch is included.

Guests sailing Celebrity's Alaska itineraries can enhance their vacation by choosing from over 158 Alaska shore excursions. Beginning in May, Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Summit, and Celebrity Mercury will sail a variety of seven-, 10- and 14-night Alaska cruises from Seattle and Vancouver. Ports of call include Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan, Alaska, and Nanaimo and Victoria, British Columbia. The vessels also cruise through the Inside Passage and beside ice blue Hubbard Glacier.

Celebrity presents exceptional pre- and post-cruise land-based adventures in the Pacific Northwest with Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Infinity. Celebrity Summit's pre- or post-cruise itineraries range in length and destination, and include highlights such as the historic gold rush town of Fairbanks, the coastal town of Seward, and Denali National Park, home of the famed Mt. McKinley. Seventeen of the cruisetour packages include segments on Celebrity's luxurious, glass-domed railcars, Wilderness Express(R), the most spacious in the industry.

Guests sailing on Celebrity Infinity's Hubbard Glacier cruises can choose from four fully escorted cruisetour options in the majestic mountains of western Canada. The five-night Canadian Rockies packages visit cities including Vancouver, Calgary, Kamloops and Banff, with each including two days of rail travel and meals in Rocky Mountaineer's RedLeaf Service railcars. The three-night Whistler, BC, cruisetours offer the best of both urban and rural Canada, with stays in both Whistler and Vancouver.

Miami February 9, 2007 - "Carnival Dream" and "Carnival Magic" are the names Carnival Cruise Lines has chosen for its two 130,000-ton SuperLiners scheduled to enter service in October 2009 and June 2011, respectively.

Representing a new class of vessel for the line, the 3,652-passenger "Fun Ships" will be the largest in Carnival Cruise Lines' fleet and offer a host of innovative on-board amenities and facilities.

"Carnival has earned a reputation as a cruise industry innovator by continually upgrading its product and introducing new and exciting features. Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic will epitomize 'Today's Carnival,' offering the widest variety of dining, activity and entertainment options in our fleet," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

Including Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic, Carnival Cruise Lines has four new ships on order, all of which are being built by Italy's Fincantieri shipyard. The first of these, the 110,000-ton Carnival Freedom, is slated to debut in Europe March 5, 2007; the 112,000-ton Carnival Splendor is scheduled to enter service in July 2008.

These four vessels will join Carnival's current 21-ship fleet which operates voyages ranging from three to 16 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe and the Greek Isles.

Miami February 9, 2007 - The tropical destinations of Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk and Nassau will be featured on an exciting new three- port, five-day itinerary operated by Carnival Cruise Lines' 2,052-passenger Imagination.

The new itinerary, which begins Monday, August 13, 2007, is the latest enhancement to the ship's popular year-round four- and five-day Caribbean cruise program from Miami.

In addition to the new three-port five-day itinerary departing Mondays, the Imagination's four-day cruises departing Thursdays call at Key West, Fla., and Calica, Mexico; while five-day cruises departing Saturdays visit George Town, Grand Cayman; and Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

"Carnival is always seeking exciting new itinerary options for our guests and the Imagination's new five-day schedule combines three magnificent ports with the convenience and flexibility of a short cruise which fits in perfectly with today's lifestyles," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

Half Moon Cay is a stunning crescent-shaped private Bahamian island renowned for its gorgeous white-sand beaches and diverse shore excursion opportunities, including horseback riding, kayaking, and parasailing. Beachside cabanas, including a new 1,600-foot Grand Cabana, and a children's water park are located along the island's exquisite waterfront.

Grand Turk, of the Turks & Caicos Islands, is the Caribbean's newest cruise destination, and recently named "Best New Port of Call" in Porthole Magazine's Editor-in-Chief Awards. This pristine island offers magnificent beaches, interesting historical attractions and landmarks, and myriad shore excursions, with a particular emphasis on watersports.

Imagination will dock at the new $42 million Grand Turk Cruise Center featuring an expansive recreation area that includes a swimming pool, an array of retail shops and an 800-foot-long beach and a Margaritaville-themed restaurant.

The third destination on the itinerary, Nassau, offers spectacular white- sand beaches and aqua-blue waters popular with snorkelers and scuba divers, as well as a wide range of shopping, sightseeing and dining choices. A rich cultural heritage, gracious hospitality and stunning architecture highlight this historic Bahamian capital.

The Imagination, part of Carnival's 70,000-ton "Fantasy-class," features 10 lounges and bars - including a 1,300-seat theatre showcasing lavish revues - as well as a 12,000-square-foot spa, jogging track, full casino gambling, and a comprehensive golf program featuring some of the Caribbean's top courses.

Catering to the growing family market, the Imagination also features "Camp Carnival" and "Club O2," supervised programs for children and teens, respectively, as well as a nine-hole miniature golf course, and the "Water Wars" water balloon attraction.

Dining venues include two main dining rooms with extensive menus and wine lists, a 700-seat poolside restaurant featuring a 24-hour pizzeria, a patisserie, and complimentary 24-hour stateroom service.

All Imagination staterooms feature the Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows.

Carnival will begin accepting reservations for the Imagination's new five- day itinerary beginning Monday, Feb. 12.

Prices begin at $289 per person based on double occupancy. Special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom, along with round- trip air supplements from a variety of North American gateways, are also available.

Miami February 12, 2007 - Royal Caribbean International's Majesty of the Seas returns home to South Florida after undergoing an extensive bow-to-stern renovation that includes several new dining and entertainment options. The newly transformed ship resumes year-round three- and four-night cruises from Miami offering a fresh onboard vibe for Bahamas- bound guests looking for a weekend getaway, a first cruise experience or multi-destination incentive group trip.

Coming out of an extreme 28-day makeover which required extensive around- the-clock man-hours - and accomplishing in days what can take months, Majesty's onboard enhancements include a complete overhaul of the guest suites and staterooms, casual dining areas, the main dining rooms, the Majesty Day Spa and ShipShape Fitness Center, the Adventure Ocean youth area - adding the teen-focused Fuel Nightclub and Living Room lounge, conference rooms, the pool deck, the theater and Casino Royale. In addition, the Viking Crown Lounge, Centrum shops' facades and other primary public areas have all been modernized. Finally, Majesty's guests will enjoy an exciting all-new onboard entertainment lineup.

"We consistently see an attraction towards shorter trips as the perfect weekend getaway or for corporate incentive travel, so it's natural to ensure that our ships consistently offer guests what they have come to expect from us - high standards for innovation and a quality product," said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president, sales for Royal Caribbean International. "The revitalized Majesty provides convenient and enjoyable three- and four-night escapes in the most contemporary setting, albeit for business or pleasure."

Since her inaugural voyage in 1992, Majesty has sailed under the guidance of godmother, Queen Sonja of Norway, and is the third ship in the Sovereign class to be refurbished - following the facelifts of Monarch of the Seas in 2003 and Sovereign of the Seas in 2004.

Majesty offers a myriad of new dining options, including a new casual dining concept, the Windjammer Marketplace, which builds on the line's Windjammer Cafe concept. The Windjammer Marketplace features a bountiful selection of Asian, Latin, Mediterranean and American fare in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. New to the Royal Caribbean brand is the Compass Deli, which features a lavish sandwich bar, daily soups, made-to-order salads, paninis, crepes and energy drinks. Guests also can choose from Sorrento's Italian pizzeria or Johnny Rockets offering guests all-American favorites including hamburgers and milk shakes. Also new to Majesty is Cafe Latte-tudes, featuring Seattle's Best Coffee(R), and the Freeze ice cream parlor. Rounding out the culinary offerings, the renamed Starlight and Moonlight dining rooms boast new decor from the walls, column and seating upholstery to plush new carpets and drapery.

The expanded Majesty Day Spa and ShipShape Fitness Center has been relocated, one deck lower, to the space previously occupied by the 'On Your Toes' Nightclub and Adventure Ocean venues. The new spa features 10 new treatment rooms, a relaxation area, and the Beauty Salon - fully equipped with a barber station, two experienced hair stylists, manicure and pedicure stations and a teeth-whitening room. Exclusive to Majesty of the Seas is the introduction of the virtual Elemis(R) SpaBar. Via interactive technology, guests have access to the 'dos and don'ts' for all skin types, as well as tips and recommended beauty products available for purchase onboard. Fitness buffs can now take wellness to the next level in the ShipShape Fitness Center, where stationary bikes and a new aerobic floor have been added to accommodate upbeat spinning and fitness classes.

The ship's new entertainment scene warrants a shout-out as well. "Signed, Sealed and Delivered," Royal Caribbean's newest theater production, brings to life the soul, rhythm and blues of Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles and Tina Turner, among others. And the dancing continues with the addition of the line's signature Latin bar Boleros, located at the forward end of the ship, serving up mojitos and caipirhinas in a design-savvy space. The popular Schooner piano bar has been brought up to par with upgraded decor such as new carpeting, chair upholstery and window coverings. Finally, guests can try their luck and enjoy Majesty's re-energized Casino Royale, featuring new carpets, window coverings and upholstery, as well as a completely refurbished bar.

To enhance both the recreation and business travel stateroom experience, Majesty debuts fully rebuilt suites, with new wall linings, cabinetry, fixtures, and fittings, as well as standard staterooms complete with new mirrors, wood cappings and decorative rails.

Amidst the new settings, all guests will have Wi-Fi access and additional room at the vanity desk, thanks to new flat-screen televisions mounted on the wall. Similarly, bathrooms have been outfitted with new hardware.

The fleet-wide roll out of the enhanced bedding program which debuted on Freedom of the Seas continues as planned with Majesty's new mattress frames designed to prevent sagging; nine-inch-thick spring mattresses with separate two-inch-thick micro-fiber pillow tops that unfold to lay on top of one another to create a queen-size, gap-free mattress; 220-thread-count long- staple cotton-blend sheets; two micro-fiber pillows, plus one decorative pillow; duvet with cotton-blend covers; bed skirts; and colored bed scarves at the end of the beds to protect the duvet.

In addition to overhauling recreational spaces, Majesty offers an expanded and new state-of-the-art conference center, ideal for groups looking to conduct business on the ship's convenient short sailings. The new multi-media system covers all audio/visual needs and attendees will be able to meet in the comfort of new, softer furnishings.

And not to be forgotten, while their parents are at work or play, younger guests will find something new of their own in the recharged, more colorful and more dynamic Adventure Ocean youth center which offers children of every age, immersive and engaging experiences in partnership with Crayola(R), Fisher Price and Lowe's. Teens will now have their own exclusive areas, at the ultra- hip Fuel Nightclub and cool hangout lounge called the Living Room.