THE HISTORY OF THE CUNARD BUILDING

Editor's Note: As Cunard marks its 175th year, here's another chapter in their history. This one is about the history of the Cunard Building in Liverpool, posted here from their press release:



"Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson and Cunard Director Angus Struthers hoisted a specially-commissioned 175 Flag above the Cunard Building at the Pier Head in Liverpool on Feb. 20.

Cunard Director Angus Struthers and
Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson

"Cunard celebrates the 175th anniversary of the departure from Liverpool of its first ship in 2015 and the Cunard Building, its former Headquarters from 1916 to 1967, will play a key role in the celebrations planned to mark this milestone anniversary. The Building, one of the famous “Three Graces” on the Pier Head waterfront, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will mark its own 100th anniversary in June 2016.

"Angus Struthers, Cunard Director, comments:

“The Cunard Building was designed to convey gravitas as a land-based representation of the Cunard ships themselves: solid, reliable, elegant and impressive. For almost 100 years the Building has remained just that and although Cunard moved to another home in 1967, the Building has remained a true statement to the shared history of the company and Liverpool. It is therefore very fitting that the Three Queens of the Cunard fleet will salute the Cunard Building when they gather on the Mersey on 25 May 2015.”

"The Cunard Building, now one of the “Three Graces” on Liverpool’s magnificent World Heritage Site Pierhead, was built on the site of George’s Dock. Divided into three sites by the extension of Water Street and Brunswick Street, it was destined to become one of the most famous waterfronts in the world.

'HARMONY' MAY BE WORLD'S BIGGEST

Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

While we are on the subject of size, Royal Caribbean may up the ante with its third Oasis-class ship, Harmony of the Seas. According to reports, it will surpass its sister ships and claim the largest cruise ship title when she launches in 2016.  Among other things, it will feature new multi-story water slides. The "WOW" keeps coming from Royal.

Artist rendering (Royal Caribbean)

SNEAK PEEK AT BRITAIN'S 'BRITTANIA'

When it comes to biggest cruise ship bragging rights, in America we have Oasis of the Seas. Across the Pond, the UK is about to have Brittania, the biggest ship built for the British market. Come take a look-see in this preview on the Daily Mail website. 

BIG BAND BALL TO MARK 'QE'S' BIRTHDAY

What better way celebrate a ship's birthday than a Big Band Ball? That's how Cunard is marking the fifth birthday of Queen Elizabeth during a special sailing Oct. 2-7, 2015.

On Oct. 3, the eve of Queen Elizabeth’s 5th birthday, guests will enjoy a "classic black tie gala dinner with a specially crafted commemorative menu to mark the occasion. Then they will be welcomed to the Queens Ballroom by the ship’s 14 piece band, as it strikes up hits from some of the most successful artists of the era including Glenn Miller, Ted Heath, Count Basie and Duke Ellington." Guests will gather for a midnight countdown to Queen Elizabeth’s official birthday.

The five-night cruise will also feature one of the UK’s best tribute 60s acts, The Overtures, as well as historian Eric Flounders, who will lecture on the history of Cunard.

PIC COMPARES 'TITANIC' AND MODERN CRUISE SHIP

Check out this comparison of Titanic and a modern cruise ship posted by Classic Pics on Twitter. Fascinating! -- Gerry

A NICE DAY TO VIEW VINTAGE YACHTS

The Waterfront in West Palm Beach was the setting Saturday for the 2015 edition of the Palm Beach Vintage Regatta, an event first held in 1917. There were over 20 vintage yachts on display, and we had a great vantage point as guests in the Braman Motorcars hospitality tent. A special bonus was hopping a ride on a sailboat. Capt. Scott, winner of one of the races held that day, gave us a tour on the Intracoastal. Thanks to Braman, Capt. Scott and the yacht owners who shared their prized possessions with the rest of us.

...

FLORIDA SCORES 6 BEACHES IN THE TOP 10

St. Pete Beach (TripAdvisor)

Florida beaches score again. TripAdvisor's most recent Traveler's Choice Top 25 Best Beaches in the United States listed six Florida beaches in the top 10:

1. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida
2. St. Pete Beach, St. Petersburg, Florida
5. Pensacola Beach, Pensacola Beach, Florida
8. Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, Florida
9. St. Augustine Beach, St. Augustine, Florida
10. Beach at Panama City, Panama City Beach, Florida

That list aside, it's pretty hard to go wrong at any beach in the Sunshine State. -- Gerry

CLASSIC YACHTS ON DISPLAY IN PALM BEACH

If you live in South Florida, don't miss your chance to see vintage yachts up close and personal at the Palm Beach Vintage Regatta, set for Saturday, Feb. 21, 12-5 p.m. at the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront. More than 20 antique and classic yachts will be on display, and the event is free and open to the public. Check out their Facebook page, or visit their website. Cruising Squared is planning to attend, so expect a complete report. -- Gerry

BERMUDA CRUISE FOR $50? YES -- IN 1938

Credit: Bernews website

A round-tip cruise to Bermuda for $50? You must be kidding ... or we're back in 1938. Sorry folks -- it's the latter.

Bermuda news website Bernews posted this article about a travel brochure from 1938 that "urges vacationers to make their way to the island promises cruises that are the 'smart thrifty way to Bermuda,' with round trip tickets starting at only $50. The brochure, which details passage aboard the Eastern Steamship Lines’ Acadia, offers regular round-trip fare of $50, a ‘Live Ashore in Bermuda Plan’ for $58, a six day cruise for $60, a seven day cruise for $67.50, and an eight day cruise for $75, with 'living aboard ship in Bermuda' covered in the respective prices."

We knew it was too good to be true! -- Gerry

ENTER TO WIN A PRIVATE JIMMY BUFFETT CONCERT

Attention all fans of singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett. Here's some news you don't want to miss:

"Fans of singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett can vie to attend a free private concert in Key West, the island widely credited with inspiring his signature sound, by submitting their 'dream set list' for the April 1 show.

"Tickets are not available for purchase, but instead 100 pairs are to be given away to entrants of the set list contest at www.margaritaville.tv. In addition, one lucky fan is to win an all-expense-paid trip for two to Key West to attend the exclusive show.

"Buffett is to perform the 27 songs that earn the most votes during the concert at Key West's historic San Carlos Institute, where he and his Coral Reefer Band played in the 1970s."

Here's more from the press release:

"The internationally acclaimed entertainer lived and wrote in Key West during some of his most productive years, and the island is believed to be the inspiration for tunes including his smash hit Margaritaville.

"As well as peppering his song lyrics with frequent Key West references, Buffett established his first Margaritaville Store and Margaritaville Café on the island. He also maintains a recording studio overlooking the former shrimp docks.

"Contest entries will be accepted through March 2, 2015. Winners are to be selected in a random drawing and notified by email."

DISNEY WORLD: SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Travel with the Grandparents
By Bob & Sandy Nesoff
Members: North American Travel Journalists Association
American Society of Journalists and Authors
Special to Cruising Squared

It’s always magic in the Magic Kingdom.
 Cinderella and her magical coach, is helped
 by her footmen as she exits the horse drawn carriage.
 (Photo by Sandy Nesoff)

Visionaries usually become that way through trial and error. Often it ends up as more error than trial.

The Disney theme complex in Central Florida is the antithesis of that thought. What began in Anaheim, California on July 17, 1955 as Disneyland has grown into a small nation of its own. And is operated more efficiently, economically and peacefully than virtually any other country on earth.

Just 16 years later, on Oct. 1, 1971, the beginnings of the vast complex called Walt Disney World opened to the public. Record breaking crowds from around the world streamed into the park. They were greeted with an amazing tree house, pirates, tropical birds and shows featuring the animation and animatronics that foretold the future of entertainment.

The visitors continue to this day, making the Disney Florida complex arguably the most famous vacation destination in the world.

CHECK OUT THESE 10 QUIRKY RESTAURANTS

Who doesn't love a quirky restaurant? TripAdvisor does, and has their list out of "10 of the quirkiest restaurants in the world." This is one list that lives up to its name. Like the Paris eatery that serves wine in baby bottles ... or the German place where the food arrives on roller coasters. Cjeck it out and get your quirk on! -- Gerry

PRINCESS DEBUTS 'THE ISSAC' COCKTAIL

Ted Lange, center, shows off "The Issac" (Princess Cruises)

Princess Cruises has announced something special for Valentine's Day -- a new cocktail. Inspired by the "Love Boat" TV show of the 70s and 80s, it was created by Ted Lange, who played everybody's favorite ship's bartender, Issac Washington.

Fittingly called "The Issac," the new drink is debuting on all Princess cruise ships in time for Valentine’s Day.

Lange recently visited Crown Princess to demonstrate how to make his new creation for the ship’s bartenders. Check out this video:


To enjoy “The Isaac” at home, here’s the cocktail recipe:

Ingredients:

2 oz white rum
2 oz pomegranate syrup
½ oz fresh lime juice
splash of club soda
lime slice(s)
2 pineapple leaf spears
Glass: highball glass

Preparation:

Fill highball glass with 2/3 ice or desired amount of ice. Into a cocktail shaker, add ice, white rum, pomegranate syrup and lime juice. Shake and strain into highball glass, filling just to the top of the ice. Top off with club soda and garnish with a fresh lime slice and two pineapple spears.

KEYS HOSTING CONCH SHELL BLOWING CONTEST

Things are never dull in the Florida Keys, where they find something to celebrate just about every day. And who can blame them, living in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Here's news about an event coming in March -- the 53rd annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest.

"KEY WEST, Florida Keys -- While other locales might be famous for jazz or blues, Key West is home to its own musical art form: conch shell blowing. Aspiring "musicians" can test their skill on the shell beginning at noon Saturday, March 7, during the 53rd annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest in the garden of the Oldest House Museum, 322 Duval St.

"Key West's connection with the hardy sea mollusk goes far beyond instrumental uses of its fluted pink-lined shell. Native-born residents refer to themselves as conchs, conch chowder and conch fritters are traditional island dishes, and the two-story gingerbread-bedecked wooden houses in the historic Old Town district are called conch houses.

"In 1982 the Florida Keys and Key West proclaimed themselves the Conch Republic, and the shell remains an enduring symbol of the island chain.

'CARNIVAL VISTA' TO HOME PORT IN MIAMI

Carnival has announced that Carnival Vista, its largest cruise ship to date, is making Miami its home port year-round beginning in December, 2016. Vista is slated to operate an inaugural season of European cruises May to October 2016 before re-positioning to New York, then launching year-round Caribbean cruises from Miami in November 2016.

Here are more details from Carnival:

"Carnival Vista kicks off its new schedule from PortMiami with a special four-day cruise to Grand Turk departing Nov. 29, 2016. The ship will then launch year-round six- and eight-day cruises beginning with an eight-day voyage departing Dec. 3, 2016. Six-day cruises feature Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman and Cozumel, while a mix of different eight-day itineraries visit some of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations, including Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Kitts, St. Maarten and La Romana (Dominican Republic).

"Prior to the start-up of year-round service from Miami, Carnival Vista will operate a pair of voyages round-trip from New York beginning with a three-day cruise November 4-7, 2016, followed by an 11-day voyage departing Nov. 7, 2016."

FOOD TAKES CENTERSTAGE ON NEW HOLLAND SHIP

If you haven't eaten, better stop now. This new video from Holland America showcases the all the new dining options on their ship, ms Koningsdam, launching in February 2016. If you love food -- and who doesn't? -- mark your calendars!

TWO70: WHERE ARTISTRY AND ROBOTICS MEET

On Quantum of the Seas it's called Two70, which we reported on here in an earlier post. It's a theater like no other, where artistry and robotics combine to deliver a guaranteed "Wow" experience. Here's a taste of that in the production called "Starwater."

C.L.I.A. PROJECTS STRONG CRUISE GROWTH IN 2015

Every year the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) releases its annual State of the Cruise Industry Report. This year there is more good news -- it projects strong growth for the cruise industry in 2015.

Here's the news release:

"A record 23 million passengers are expected to sail this year, with 61 percent of North American CLIA-certified travel agents reporting an increase in 2015 travel bookings over this time last year. Cruise lines are enticing travelers with nearly 1,000 ports of call in new, exotic locations, especially in the fast-growing Asian market. CLIA also revealed that member cruise lines are scheduled to debut 22 new ocean, river and specialty ships in 2015 for a total investment of more than $4 billion.

"The cruise industry this year will have major economic impact globally. In 2013, the global economic output of the cruise industry was more than $117 billion; the industry supported nearly 900,000 jobs and contributed to $38 billion in wages.

“From new ports around the globe to the investment by CLIA’s member cruise lines in new, innovative ships, it’s an exciting time for the cruise industry and cruise passengers,” said Adam M. Goldstein, CLIA Chairman and President/COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “This year will prove to be another step forward for the entire industry as our members continue to strive to make cruising the best overall vacation experience.”

"Using several research studies, CLIA identified seven 2015 cruise industry outlooks:

'VIKING STAR' COMPLETES SEA TRIALS

The new Viking Star is one step closer to making its April debut. Here's a video documenting its recent successful sea trials, which took place in the Aegean Sea in mid-December. More details from Viking:

"During nearly a week of intense diagnostics, maritime experts executed more than 80 different tests designed to evaluate everything from Viking Star’s engine and propulsion performance to her navigation systems and cabin acoustics.

"Currently back at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard for final outfitting and interior decorating, Viking Star will take on her first guests on April 11. She will then set sail from Istanbul, making her way through the Mediterranean and into the Atlantic on her way to be officially christened in the homeland of the Vikings. On May 17 in Bergen, Norway, guests onboard will be treated to a celebration that will be seen throughout the world. One of the most important days of the year in Norway – Norwegian Constitution Day – dignitaries from around the country and thousands of Bergen residents will gather along the waterfront to welcome Viking Star to port and to share in the festivities."

JANE SEYMOUR TO APPEAR ON 'QM2'

Jane Seymour (Cunard)

Award-winning actress Jane Seymour will be featured on the Queen Mary 2's Transatlantic Crossing from New York to Southampton on June 3. Ms. Seymour will share her insights with guests during two Q&A sessions as well as participate in a screening of one of her many films. Also known for her art, Ms. Seymour will conduct painting classes for passengers, which will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for a fee. Guests will also have the opportunity to attend a book-signing session.

Although most famous for her roles in Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman, James Bond’s Live and Let Die, Somewhere in Time, and Wedding Crashers, she is also a designer, writer, painter and art gallery owner.

ESCAPE TO LUXURY: STARTING AT $27,000

Credit: Marriott

Looking for a nice winter escape? Or maybe you just want to treat yourself and your closest friends for some pampering -- Palm Beach-style.

It's all waiting for you at the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort and Spa, where they are offering the Live the Life of Luxury package, starting at a mere $27,000.

The self-described "over-the-top three-night experience for four" starts at Palm Beach International Airport, "with a limo transport to Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island’s sprawling Presidential Suite, where Champagne and hors d’oeuvres await. The 2,160-square-foot, fully equipped retreat is complete with two king bedrooms, a media room, dining area, and a 100-square-foot wraparound balcony with breathtaking ocean views. Upon arrival, full butler service will take care of every detail and request, including unpacking luggage, shining shoes and pressing garments."

The package includes:

· Eight hours aboard a luxury yacht with meals and beverage service for four, plus round-trip limo transportation.

· For breakfast, lunch and dinner think the finest in culinary delicacies like caviar, lobster, wagyu beef, foie gras, and truffle dishes prepared by 3800 Ocean’s Executive Chef Larry LaValley and his exceptional culinary team. Beverage attendants will be sure to top off glasses with fine Champagne and single vineyard wines.

· Unlimited watersports including surfing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and personal kayak and pedal boat tours

· A private pool cabana for relaxing under the warm Florida sun

· A candlelit dinner on the beach with live music

· The first-class getaway will end in luxurious style with an in-suite Champagne Breakfast and limo return to Palm Beach International Airport

Act fast -- it's only available through April 30, 2015, "subject to availability, terms and conditions apply. For more information or reservations call 561-340-1700 or visit http://www.marriott.com/specials."

We just can't decide which two friends we want to invite. Decisions, decisions. -- Gerry

CARNIVAL LAUNCHES 'CRUISING 101' SERIES

Between social media, YouTube and and the Internet in general, there are more ways to get information on cruising out to the masses than ever before. And Carnival is taking full advantage.

They have engaged travel expert Samantha Brown to star in a new video series on Carnival’s YouTube channel "designed to provide 'cruise rookies' with all they need to know about the seagoing vacation experience, with helpful information on everything from on-board dining and activity choices to cruising with kids and frequently asked questions."

Here's more from Carnival:

NEW CRUISE TERMINAL FOR LONDON?

Since we have been on the topic of Britain recently (including this foray to a Brit grocery store right here in the Palm Beaches, British Depot), newspapers in the UK are reporting on a new cruise terminal proposed for London that would accommodate the large ships, right on the River Thames. Quoting from the article in The Telegraph:

"It would be the first in the capital for more than 35 years, since the closure of the Royal Docks in 1981, and could allow ships of more than 650 feet (200m) in length to obstruct views of riverside attractions such as the Cutty Sark and the Old Royal Naval College. The Times reports that detailed plans for the terminal will be submitted 'within weeks', allowing it to open 'within two years'."

Jolly good news, we say! -- Gerry