This Week in Cruise: Silver Cloud Back in Business After Three Week Renovation

Silversea Cruises' Silver Cloud is currently sailing on her first voyage following a successful three-week dry dock in Palermo, Italy, where extensive renovations were made to nearly every area of the ultra-luxury ship. Silver Cloud's interior decoration has been completely renovated, including all the suites, public spaces and dining venues, in order to introduce a fresh and contemporary classic atmosphere. Enhancements include a renewed lobby area with new furniture, updates to four dining areas, new decor for suites, new pool furniture and more.

Windstar Cruises announced that advance bookings on 2013 sailings are 60 percent ahead of the prior year. Based on current pace, 2013 will mark the fourth straight year of increasing revenue for the small-ship cruise line. Additionally, Windstar invested $18 million in a fleet-wide renovation project, scheduled to be complete by the end of 2012. Funded by Xanterra Parks and Resorts, who purchased Windstar Cruises in May of 2011, the 12-month project will enhance the guest experience from stem to stern on all three sailing yachts with updated décor, furniture, carpeting, upholstery and artwork in all public areas, staterooms and suites.

Compagnie du Ponant’s new 2013 summer cruise brochure outlines luxury yacht trips along the waters of The Great North, Canada, Northern Europe and the Baltic, the Western Mediterranean, the Eastern Mediterranean and Asia. The company’s three sister ships – Le Boréal, L’Austral and the soon-to-launch Le Soléal – offer 132 staterooms, while the three-masted Le Ponant yacht has just 32 staterooms. Le Soléal's inaugural cruise travels from Venice to Barcelona and departs July 1.

 

Paul Gauguin Cruises revealed the shore excursion options for guests on seven-night Caribbean and 13- and 14-night Panama Canal voyages aboard The Moana. Guests can pre-reserve standard shore excursions and enjoy each with no more than 13 fellow travelers. Pre-paid tours are also offered for two to six guests, including private transportation with a personal driver/guide.