Morton’s Steakhouse Changes Comp Policy
Morton’s Steakhouse located at Caesars Atlantic City has announced that for all of 2012 they will accept guests casino comps at a 1:1 ratio. Previously, the restaurant would accept comps at a 2:1 ratio.
Norwegian Cruise Line Launches New Brand Platform
TV, social, digital and onboard elements invite vacationers to ‘Cruise Like a Norwegian
Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that it is unveiling a new brand platform and integrated national advertising campaign, “Cruise Like a Norwegian,” that embraces and celebrates the community of diverse vacationers who embody the passion, freedom and flexibility inherent in a Norwegian Cruise Line Freestyle Cruising® vacation. Cruising like a “Norwegian” is for those who live life to the fullest, embrace new adventures and are passionate about their experiences.
The campaign marks Norwegian’s first return to network television advertising since 2008 and also integrates social media, digital and onboard elements, providing a complete immersion in the Norwegian community. This is also the first work from the line’s new agency partner, The Martin Agency, which the company engaged in March.
“We’ve spent the last four years working a variety of initiatives across our organization to improve and enhance our company and our brand,” said Kevin Sheehan, chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We felt this is the right time to issue this bold invitation to cruise with us by piquing interest and creating excitement around our brand. We believe this new brand platform will differentiate us and help clearly define a Norwegian cruise as one of the best vacations.”
The visual embodiment of the campaign is a brand essence video that illustrates the passion and enthusiasm of Norwegian cruisers who can “Dine like a Parisian,” “Surf like a Hawaiian,” “Party like a Brazilian,” and “Love like a Venetian,” among other things. An original score “Let’s Go!” was created to accompany the video. Television advertising, beginning tonight, includes one 30-second and two 15-second spots running during prime time on the ABC and CBS television networks, as well as on seven national cable channels, including Travel Channel, HGTV, MSNBC and Discovery Channel.
“Our goal with this new platform is to elevate our profile and put Norwegian Cruise Line front and center by expressing what it means to vacation with us and inviting people to join the community of Norwegians,” said Maria Miller, Norwegian Cruise Line’s senior vice president of marketing. “We are confident that this integrated campaign – from TV to social media and digital – will engage our community in fun and memorable ways.”
Social media plays a large role in this new platform. Leading up to the launch, Norwegian’s Facebook page featured a six-day countdown that asked fans to post their favorite photos to illustrate how Norwegians dine, shop, party, etc. Beginning today, Norwegian’s Facebook page highlights the brand essence video which can be shared with friends. There is also an opportunity for fans to “Mix it Up” and make their own “Cruise Like a Norwegian” personalized video using their photos and setting it to one of three custom music remixes of the “Let’s Go” song. Finally, an interactive personality quiz asks “How Norwegian Are You?” The results show how closely respondents align with a “Norwegian” lifestyle and then groups like-minded “Norwegians” together by personalities. Upon completing the quiz, fans are rewarded with a special ‘badge’ that is posted to their Facebook page.
These social media elements are combined with digital media efforts including custom page takeovers, rich media banners that invite consumers to watch the brand video and a re-skinned Norwegian web site that all work together to raise awareness about how to “Cruise Like a Norwegian” and to engage consumers with the brand.
As part of the company’s continued commitment to its Partners First philosophy, travel partners will also be provided with the tools and resources they need to help them feel part of the “Norwegian” community and to help them spread the word to their clients. The company is rolling out a new course at NCL University, providing partners with inside tips on “How to Market Norwegian;” new marketing materials on its Marketing Headquarters platform; and a video message introducing the new brand to travel partners.
The brand platform comes to life onboard Norwegian’s ships when guests are officially welcomed into the Norwegian community and can experience the “Cruise Like a Norwegian” themed Sail-Away Party and drink menu; all new White Hot Party with “Norwegian” elements; special “Cruise Like a Norwegian” photo and video opportunities; and a revised farewell show, so guests will continue to feel a part of the Norwegian community until their next cruise.
To experience the campaign and watch the brand essence video, visit www.ncl.com/facebook and click on the See How We Cruise tab.
Casino de Montreal Undergoing Cutting Edge Renovations
In an effort to strengthen its positioning and offer the best casino experience in terms of customer service, the Societe des casinos du Quebec has undertaken a complete modernization of the Casino de Montreal. This major renovation project , expected to be completed in 2014, will be one of the largest worksites in the province of Quebec
The Casino du Lac Leamy, second largest gaming establishment in the province, will also get a facelift starting in 2012
Undertaking this work will enable them, in a few years, to welcome clients in cutting edge environments where they will be guaranteed intense and unforgettable experiences. For the time being , however, they are faced with the reduced capacity to receive international clients. Therefore, reservations to these properties are not being accepted at this tim
They will be able again to offer international clients all the amenities your deserve in the near future.
Two Freestyle Cruising Ships to Receive Multi-Million Dollar Enhancements
Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Jade will enter dry dock this fall
Continuing the company’s commitment to continually enhance its fleet, Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that both Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Jade will enter dry docks this fall for multi-million dollar enhancements. Norwegian Spirit enters a 13-day dry dock on September 25, 2011 in Mobile, Alabama. The 2,018-passenger ship is receiving renovations including outfitting the entire ship for WiFi; laying new carpet; installing flat screen televisions; and upgrading the Stardust Theater and the ship’s action station restaurant Raffles. Norwegian Jade will undergo enhancements, including the addition of Norwegian’s signature restaurant Moderno Churrascaria; new carpet and tile throughout the ship; painting the hull; among other maintenance updates during an 11-day dry dock in Marseille, France.
“While we have the youngest fleet in the industry, we still want to continuously enhance our ships,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “With the dry docks of Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Jade, we will have completed enhancements on four ships this year, a major investment for the company.”
Norwegian Spirit’s refurbishment includes:
- Installing wireless internet access throughout the entire ship including crew areas;
- New flat screen televisions in guest and crew staterooms;
- Upgrades to accessible guest staterooms and the addition of ramps in various areas of the ship;
- Replacement of 64,000 square feet of carpet throughout the ship;
- Addition of new silk plants throughout the ship;
- Enhancements to the Stardust Theater;
- Addition of an aerobics room in the Roman Spa and Fitness Center for spinning, yoga and various fitness classes;
- Updates to Raffles Court, the ship’s buffet restaurant.
When the ship returns to New Orleans on October 9, 2011, she will sail a series of seven-day Western Caribbean itineraries departing every Sunday calling on Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras and Belize City, Belize; along with two relaxing days at sea through April 8, 2012. The ship will then set off on a 13-day transatlantic cruise to Barcelona on April 15, 2012. She will arrive in Barcelona on April 28, 2012 where she will begin sailing 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruises alternating from Barcelona and Venice through October 13, 2012. Beginning on November 6, 2012, Norwegian Spirit will sail nine-day Canary Islands cruises from Barcelona through April 8, 2013.
Norwegian Jade enters dry dock in Marseille, France on November 26, 2011 to December 8, 2011. During this time, the 2,402-passenger ship will receive the line’s signature Brazilian steakhouse, Moderno Churrascia, replacing Paniolo’s Tapas and Salsa restaurant on Deck 8. The ship will also receive technical enhancements including new propeller and thrust bearings; seals on the Azipod propulsion systems; as well as a new coat of hull paint. After dry dock, Norwegian Jade, which sails year-round from Europe, will cruise a nine-day itinerary departing Barcelona, Spain, calling on Funchal, Madeira; Santa Cruz, Tenerife; Arrecife, Canary Islands and Malaga, Spain.
Both Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sun received major enhancements earlier this year.
Norwegian Dawn Receives Major Enhancement
New staterooms, a new restaurant and flat screen televisions among many updates
MIAMI – May 23, 2011 – Norwegian Dawn is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar refurbishment while the ship is in dry dock in Freeport, Bahamas. The 2,224-passenger ship is receiving extensive renovations including the addition of 28 suites; Moderno Churrascaria, the popular Brazilian steakhouse restaurant introduced on Norwegian Epic; the relocation of the Spinnaker Lounge; and flat screen televisions in all guest and crew staterooms, along with many other exciting updates. The ship will re-enter service on May 27, 2011 in Boston, her new seasonal homeport.
“Norwegian Dawn’s refurbishment is very similar to those enhancements made to Norwegian Star last year,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “We have found Norwegian Star’s updates very well received and we expect our guests will appreciate the changes made to Norwegian Dawn as well.”
Norwegian Dawn’s refurbishment includes:
58 new suites and staterooms (available beginning on the September 16, 2011 sailing) including:
- Four Deluxe Owner’s Suites ranging from 667 to 732 square feet;
- 14 Family Suites from 408 to 452 square feet, most sleeping six guests;
- 10 Family Suites with balcony from 409 to 495 square feet, most sleeping six guests;
- 18 Inside staterooms.
- Moderno Churrascaria specialty restaurant (in the space previously occupied by Salsa, the Tex Mex restaurant) which features a large salad bar and tableside passadors serving a variety of skewered meats;
Upgraded flat screen televisions in all guest and crew staterooms broadcast on a digital signal;- Relocation and total renovation of the Gift Shop, Art Gallery, Photo Gallery, Conference Center, Spinnaker Lounge and Blue Lagoon Restaurant;
- Enhancements to the Dawn Club Casino including new layout, fixed furniture and carpet;
- Complete renovation of the Kid’s Crew and Teen Club to offer a more versatile layout and cater to the range of children’s ages and interests. Updates include new game systems, activities and sound and light. There will also be a room dedicated for the Under 2 Zoo where parents can accompany their children under two and enjoy age appropriate activities;
- Aesthetic improvements in the Fitness area and Garden Café;
- Atrium Lobby refresh including new furniture in Java Café and plant replacement;
- Complete refurbishment of crew dining and recreation areas.
Technical modifications include the replacement of one engine, as well as preventative maintenance, removal and replacing of both bearings on the port and starboard azipods; application of a new hull coating; and an upgrade to the hot temperature regulation which will reduce energy consumption.
Beginning on May 27, 2011, Norwegian Dawn will sail a series of seven-day Bermuda itineraries departing from Boston every Friday with three days in Bermudathrough October 21, 2 011, followed by a two-night cruise on October 28, 2011. The ship will reposition to Miami and begin sailing 10 and 11-day Southern Caribbean itineraries through April 8, 2012.
Norwegian Dawn is the second of three Freestyle Cruising ships scheduled for improvements this year. Norwegian Sun completed her dry dock renovations in March and Norwegian Spirit will enter dry dock on September 26, 2011.
Norwegian Cruise Line Opens New Marina and Dining Facility at Great Stirrup Cay
MIAMI – February 8, 2011 – Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that it has completed the first phase of enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s 250-acre private island in the Bahamas. On Thursday, February 3, the company opened the new marina and dining facility on the island, representing a significant milestone in the more than $20 million enhancement project currently underway. Norwegian Sky’s 2,000 guests were the first to experience the opening of the marina basin with four docks for the island’s tenders and the new 8,500 square foot dining facility, complete with two bars and four picnic pavilions.
“Both the new marina and the dining facility greatly enhance the guest experience on Great Stirrup Cay which is our second busiest port of call this year,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s president and CEO. “By moving the tenders’ arrival to the marina and away from the beach, we have now opened up a great expanse of beachfront for our guests to enjoy and relax. We’ve also built a new large dining facility that is similar to the action station restaurants we have on board our Freestyle Cruising ships.”
The marina is approximately 12 feet deep at low water and is home to the island’s four tenders. It took more than eight months to excavate the basin and the entrance channel. The dining facility includes a central pizza making station, two grills, hot and cold food stations, as well as fresh fruits and breads. There are two full bars on either side of the facility for added convenience. The four pavilions, each more than 1800 square feet, offer picnic tables with a total seating capacity for more than 500 guests.
Enhancements to Great Stirrup Cay have been underway since January of 2010 and will continue through the end of this year. Several new island activities have been added since the project began including more than 16 wave runners, kayak rentals and an eco-adventure boat tour around the island. These are in addition to the existing snorkeling; floats; inflatable hippo slide; and parasailing.
The second phase of enhancements includes an arrival/departure pavilion, additional bar facilities; several comfort stations; a band stand; cruise program activity area; private beachfront cabanas; a kid’s play area; straw market; and beach volleyball courts. The beachfront will continue to be expanded on the island’s west end.
Norwegian has owned the island since 1977 when it became the first cruise line to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its guests. Great Stirrup Cay offers magnificent white sand beaches, majestic palms and calm, pristine waters where an abundance of colorful marine life inhabits the surrounding coral reefs.
Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Pearl regularly call on Great Stirrup Cay throughout the year.
Hard Rock Punta Cana
This is the home of turning it up loud with the hottest Casino in the Dominican Republic. You’ll always find the best action in the Carribean in our 45,000-square-foot Casino. We have over 450 of your favorite slot machines in all denominations. The excitement of our table games is legendary with over 40 different tables, from the international flavor of our Poker room to the pulsating energy of Blackjack, Craps, Roulette and Baccarat, you will find tons of action day or night. If you are a high roller, visit our Salon Prive VIP area where you will find high limit Baccarat, American Roulette, Blackjack, and Sean Connery. Well, maybe.
Kick back and get the treatment you deserve. The 5 star Sports Book offers wagering on all major sporting events with five betting windows and an inviting players lounge for a winning experience. Come visit our lush tropical paradise where our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make your gaming experience most enjoyable.
As of December 1, 2010, Allure of the Seas is the first to welcome the DreamWorks Experience onboard our already stunning collection of experiences for the whole family. Allure of the Seas will be the exclusive ship in our fleet with the How to Train Your Dragon™ Ice Show and Madagascar™ Aqua Show.
The revolutionary design of Allure of the Seas will fill your days at sea with wonder: wake to two-story ocean views in our contemporary Loft Suites, hop onto a classic, full-sized carousel in our Boardwalk neighborhood, spend some quiet time in our adults-only Solarium, and let the kids’ imaginations run wild in our Youth Zone – the largest dedicated youth area at sea. Jump right into our Pool Zone, where you’ll find our H2O Zone, cantilevered whirlpools, FlowRiders® and a thrilling zip-line view of the ship and sea below. When it’s time to unwind, go for a stroll in Central Park – a meandering garden and lush public space lined with foliage and fine restaurants – or take in the majestic view from any of the multiple balconies overlooking the AquaTheater, the first amphitheater at sea.
With 28 ultra-modern loft suites and 2,700 spacious staterooms, this 16-deck marvel proves that the impossible is possible
Ship Highlights
7 distinctly designed neighborhoods including:
- Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness
- solo and couple massage suites
- youth spa
- complete hair and makeup services
- 158 state-of-the-art cardio and resistance machines
- pilates, kickboxing, yoga and spinning classes
- Vitality Café
Pool and Sports Zone
- H2O Zone aqua park for kids
- 4 pools and 10 whirlpools
- tranquil poolside Solarium area
- 2 Flowriders®, sports courts, mini-golf and Zip line
- Solarium Bistro, Wipe Out Café and Bar
Entertainment Place
- Casino Royale
- Studio B, featuring ice shows
- Opal Theater – 1,380-seat venue
- Blaze Nightclub, Jazz on 4, Comedy Live
- Dazzles, featuring musical spectacles ranging from big band to disco
Youth Zone
- Play – open gym and activity area
- Adventure Ocean Theater and Science Lab
- The Workshop – includes activities such as jewelry making & scrapbooking
- Royal Babies & Royal Tots – nursery service
- Teen Areas including Fuel disco, The Living Room lounge, the Back Deck and more
Ship Facts
- Guest Capacity: 5,400 double occupancy
- Gross Tonnage: 220,000
- Staterooms: 2,700
- Decks: 16 high
- Length: 1,187′
- Max Beam: 184.40′
- Draft: 30′
- Cruising Speed: 22 knots
NORWEGIAN EPIC DEBUTS ADVANCE, ONLINE TICKETING FOR WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT
MIAMI – May 17, 2010 – Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that its largest, most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship to date, Norwegian Epic, will feature a pre-cruise online reservation system for select on-board entertainment. Norwegian Epic is changing the face of cruise line entertainment with unprecedented and world-class on-board entertainment including Blue Man Group, Cirque Dreams™ & Dinner, The Second City® Comedy Troupe, Legends in Concert, Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos Show and Nickelodeon™ at Sea.
To book tickets for many of these stellar performances, Norwegian Epic guests can pre-book reservations prior to their cruise. Booked guests can go to the Norwegian website, www.ncl.com, log in to the “My NCL” section and visit a special entertainment page where they can select and reserve their desired performance. Pre-booking will be available for performances of Blue Man Group, Cirque Dreams & Dinner, Legends in Concert, The Second City Comedy Troupe, Nickelodeon™ Slime Time Live!, Breakfast with Nickelodeon™ and the Murder Mystery “Presumed Murdered.” Guests may make a reservation for each show once per sailing.
Online bookings open 45 days prior to sailing date. Reservations for entertainment events with no cover charge are valid until 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. At that time, all unclaimed reservations with be released to guests on a first come first serve basis. Cancellations of reservations for entertainment events which have a cover charge must be made no later than 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time to receive a full refund. If cancellation occurs with less than 24 hours notice, the full price of the ticket will be charged. Once on board, guests may still make reservations for available shows through the ship’s iTV system or by contacting the Box Office.
“Norwegian Epic will redefine cruise ship entertainment with its wide variety of world-class entertainment,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “We believe there will be a huge demand for the on-board entertainment and to ensure that guests can see the performances of their choice, we created a special pre-booking mechanism. We feel that this will further the Freestyle Cruising experience, offering guests unsurpassed flexibility and convenience.”
Guests will have many entertainment options and venues to choose from on board Norwegian Epic. Blue Man Group will perform eight shows per sailing; Legends in Concert, six performances; Legends Unplugged, three shows; Nickelodeon SlimeTime Live, three shows; Cirque Dreams & Dinner will be performed 12 shows per cruise; Second City, 14; Howl at the Moon, four shows; and there will be Breakfast with Nickelodeon on three mornings per sailing. Amongst the 13 entertainment venues is the first big top at sea, the Spiegel Tent, which will be home to Cirque Dreams & Dinner, created and directed by Neil Goldberg. A special Murder Mystery, called “Presumed Murdered,” presented by The Second City will also be featured in the Spiegel Tent one time per cruise.
