Crystal Unveils Episode 2 Of ‘Culinary Journeys’ Video Series
Crystal Cruises has released the second episode in its 12-part video series highlighting the flavors of the world. In the latest installment of “Crystal Cruises Presents: A Culinary Journey Hosted by Chef Jon Ashton,” the chef explores the traditional variety and preparation of Hawaiian poke while the ship was visiting Honolulu. He is guided by Hawaiian food and tourism expert, Gio Mazzarella, to local markets and restaurants specializing in the freshest seafood and delving into the simplicity of the island’s ingredients.
Following his time ashore, Chef Ashton then returns to Crystal Serenity where he and Crystal’s own culinary team create three new dishes inspired by Hawaii.
The “Crystal Cruises Presents: A Culinary Journey Hosted by Chef Jon Ashton” video series highlights the connection between the cuisines of global destinations and the culinary experience aboard Crystal ships, long renowned for their creativity and variety and served in casually elegant venues on board.
Visiting an array of locales around the world with Crystal Serenity, the “Culinary Journey” video series features local chefs, farmers and expert guides showcasing the signature dishes – and tips for preparing them – in an array of locales, taking him and viewers off the beaten paths into the heart of each place’s culinary spirit. The videos air every two weeks, published on “Crystal Insider” blog and/or Crystal Cruises’ YouTube channel.
Crystal Cruises, www.crystalcruises.com
Seabourn’s Two Week Sale Offers Special Pricing and Amenities on Select 2019 and 2020 Sailings
Seabourn’s Two Week Sale started March 25 and runs through April 8, and features significant benefits on select sailings for travelers to experience the world on a Seabourn voyage. Travelers who book during the Two Week Sale may:
Receive complimentary veranda suite category upgrades
Reserve a penthouse or premium suite and receive a $1,000 per suite shipboard credit
Book a Combination Cruise and receive up to 15% savings
Receive a special deposit offer of $500 per suite
Solo travelers will find single supplements starting at only 25% above the standard double occupancy fares on select voyages
“For the traveler who is waiting to book their vacation for this year or even into next, the time is now, and our Two Week Sale gives people even more reason to book an ultra-luxury travel experience aboard the finest resorts at sea,” said Chris Austin, Seabourn’s senior vice president of global marketing and sales.
Seabourn’s Two Week Sale applies to select cruises in destinations around the world. A complete listing of the voyages, savings and amenities can be viewed on Seabourn’s website.
Seabourn, www.seabourn.com
Best Family-Friendly Cruises to Hawaii
If you really want to capture the Aloha spirit and warmth of the Hawaiian people, visiting more than one island is essential. A cruise to Hawaii not only lets you travel between islands without the hassle of unpacking and planning transportation, but it’s also perfect for families. And, while many ships sail the Pacific, few offer long hours at port, first-class accommodations, and family-friendly entertainment. We’ve done our research, and when it comes to the best family-friendly Hawaiian cruises, these ships are making waves.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Pride of America: Honolulu to Honolulu

Norwegian Cruise Line’s award-winning itinerary sails to four of the Hawaiian Islands and features nearly 100 hours in port, more than most other ships, for a truly immersive experience. Sailing year-round from Honolulu, the true excitement comes from dazzling shore excursions. Explore the Kualoa Mountain ridge or even hang 10 at one of the world’s top beaches. Unique to Norwegian, the ship overnights in two ports: Maui and Kaua’i. But, there’s plenty of Aloha spirit on board as well as off. Norwegian’s first-class entertainment brings Hawaii to you. In addition to hula and lei making classes, an ‘Ohana arrives on board for an Aloha Polynesian show. The Pride of America offers 19 dining options, including local Hawaiian cuisine such as Pineapple Beurre Blanc with fresh seafood. With a range of accommodations from inside staterooms and family suites, spas, and exciting entertainment options there is no shortage of family fun onboard as well as off.
Disney Cruise Line: Disney Wonder Honolulu to Vancouver

A perfect mix of days at sea and a port, Disney’s 10-night Hawaiian cruise has all the makings of a first-class family vacation; after all this is Disney. With five days at sea, you’ll have plenty of time to hang out with your favorite Disney characters, explore the ship’s Broadway-style shows, and embark on an epicurean adventure with themed dining. Your adventure begins in the tropical city of Honolulu on Oahu and ventures to the port of Hilo, Nawiliwili, and Kahului. Your journey ends in a lush paradise of a different type: Vancouver British Columbia. Here, you’re greeted by picturesque snowcapped mountains, making for a perfect contrast to the tropical rainforests of Hawaii. If you want the inside scoop on how to make the most of your Disney Cruise, check out our hidden tips and tricks.
Princess Cruises: 15 Day Hawaiian Island Cruises

From the moment you embark on your Hawaiian adventure, you’ll understand why the Travel Channel named Princess Best Cruises to see Hawaii. Whether you join in on the King Kamehameha Festival, take Polynesian language classes or learn to play the ukulele, from the moment you step foot on Princess’s Hawaiian cruise, there are so many ways to capture the Aloha spirit. Fall in love with all that Hawaii has to offer as you journey from Los Angeles to Hilo, Honolulu, Nawiliwili and Lahaina where you’ll explore dazzling waterfalls, black sand beaches, and world-class shopping. Foodies take heed. Food & Wine magazine named Princess Best Cruise Line for Food Lovers. And with freshly prepared Hawaiian dishes like marinated Kona shrimp and Hawaiian Macadamia-infused deserts, it soon becomes evident how the ship earned the accolades. Even the little ones will delight in the child-friendly options, especially tempting desserts made just for them.
Best At-Sea Spas in South America
Whether your next voyage is taking you to Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, or Chile, you’ll want to hop aboard a cruise ship that offers pampering spa treatments and plenty of opportunities for relaxation. Several major cruise lines have added luxury spa services to their lineup of offerings and have dedicated spa pools, hydrotherapy areas, and steam showers to enhance your experience. Here’s where you’ll find some of the best spas on cruises to South America.
Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Star
Upgraded in 2018, the Norwegian Star offers unlimited access to the Thermal Suite, a heat and water therapy experience exclusive to the ship. You not only benefit from the healing properties of water but you can also enjoy views of the ocean from the giant windows across from the pool while you relax. Treat yourself to specialty Elemis treatments, including the Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Facial that includes Quartz micro-crystals and antioxidant properties of precious minerals. A set of spa services for men is also available.
Princess Cruises Island Princess
The Island Princess was refurbished in 2015 with several deluxe updates and luxury decor. It boasts three pools and five whirlpool spas to get you relaxed before you head in for spa treatments. The Fitness Center and Spa area is home to the Lotus Spa offering a la carte services including La Therapie HydraLift Facial and the aroma Stone Therapy program for decadent massage treatments. Every service is customized for the traveler and some cruises have trained acupuncturists on staff to provide acupuncture treatments.
Regent Seven Seas Mariner
Home to the Canyon Ranch Spa experience, this ship offers plenty of opportunities to be pampered and enjoy a few hours of relaxation. The spa services include customized aromatherapy experiences, therapeutic bodywork and deluxe facials. You also have access to a full-service salon if you want to get a manicure or have your hair done before dinner. All treatments are customized for guests and designed around the original Canyon Ranch menu of services.