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Princess Cruises Announces The Love Boat Themed Cruise with Iconic Original Cast

Fans Can Set a Course for Adventure, Love and Laughter Aboard Enchanted Princess Canada/New England Voyage, August 31-September 7, 2024

Princess Cruises, known for its integral role as the ocean-going co-star in the iconic “The Love Boat” series, has officially unveiled a second themed cruise, reuniting cast members from the original show. Following the tremendous success of the inaugural Love Boat cruise in 2022, fans of the popular show can sail along with Doc, Gopher, Isaac and Vicki Stubing as they cruise roundtrip from New York to Canada & New England aboard Enchanted Princess, August 31-September 7, 2024.

Sail With The Original Cast

Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador Jill Whelan (aka Vicki Stubing) will join fellow  Love Boat  cast members including Bernie Kopell (Doc), Fred Grandy (Gopher), and Ted Lange (Isaac). Ezra Freeman, the bartender from the recently aired  The Real Love Boat  on CBS reality dating series, will join the cast, along with other surprise guests to be announced.

Highly anticipated  Love Boat -themed activities, include:

• Sailaway party introducing the cast
• Meet-and-greet photo and signing opportunities
• The Love Boat -inspired guest activities with prizes
• Cocktail demonstration hosted by Ezra Freeman and Ted Lange – practice the finger point!
• Symbolic renewal of vows ceremony, officiated by the cast, with commemorative certificate
• Cast Q&As sharing favorite memories of the show and stories of their careers
• The Love Boat  episodes airing on Movies Under the Stars and in staterooms
• The Love Boat  trivia with the Cruise Director
• The Love Boat  inspired menus and specialty cocktails
• Themed décor, photo backdrops and merchandise

“We had such a blast connecting with fans on our theme cruise in 2022, so bringing it back in 2024 feels like it was meant to be, especially with the addition of some surprise guests,” said Jill Whelan, Celebrations Ambassador for Princess Cruises. “Sailing with our fans brings us so much joy and this cruise will undoubtedly be a special reunion, taking us back to where it all began – on a Princess Cruise.”

Love Boat VIP Package

Super fans may opt for a special  Love Boat VIP Package , featuring an invitation to an exclusive cast cocktail party, reserved seating for the cast Q&A in the Princess Theater, front-of-the-line access for autographs and photos, dinner at the Captain’s Table, plus a themed cruise t-shirt and mug. More details on cost and how to book coming soon.

Canada/New England  Love Boat  theme cruise

The seven-day Canada/New England  Love Boat  theme cruise aboard the 3,660-guest Enchanted Princess sails roundtrip from New York City and visits Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Rockland, Maine; Saint John, Canada (for Bay of Fundy); and Halifax, Canada.

The Love Boat

The Love Boat  is credited with bringing cruising to the masses and showcasing the romance of the sea, taking Hollywood’s biggest stars to sought-after destinations as story lines always ended on a happy note. In the fall of 2022, Princess was featured again as the setting of  The Real Love Boat  on CBS and Paramount+, reality dating adventure series where three real-life Princess crew members and 12 singles looking for love joined hosts Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O’Connell onboard Regal Princess sailing through the Mediterranean.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company’s website at  www.princess.com .

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Princess Cruises Sets Sail with Beloved Love Boat Cast

Princess Cruises Reunites “Love Boat” Cast for Second Themed Cruise Princess Cruises, the cruise line synonymous with the iconic “The Love Boat” television series, welcomes aboard fans of the T.V show for its second “Love Boat” themed cruise.

Here’s what Princess has in store for this reunion cruise aboard Enchanted Princess .

What You’ll Experience on This “Love Boat” Cruise

In This Post...

Guests aboard the Enchanted Princess on the August 31, 2024 sailing can mix and mingle with beloved cast members from the original “Love Boat” show. Jill Whelan (Vicki Stubing), Bernie Kopell (Doc) , Fred Grandy (Gopher), and Ted Lange (Isaac) will be joined by Ezra Freeman, the charismatic bartender from the recent CBS reality series “The Real Love Boat”.

The cast will relate behind-the-scenes stories, plus there will be a host of activities inspired by the show that we remember so well.

Highlights of “The Love Boat” Cruise

This seven-day voyage from New York City explores the picturesque ports on a Canada and New England cruise while recreating the fun and excitement of “The Love Boat”.

• Sailaway Party:  Kick off the adventure with a lively celebration introducing the beloved cast members.
• Meet-and-Greets:  Capture special moments with photo and autograph sessions throughout the cruise.
• “Love Boat” Inspired Activities:  Immerse yourself in games, contests, and events designed to evoke the spirit of the show.
• Cocktail Demonstration:  Learn from the masters! Ezra Freeman and Ted Lange will demonstrate their mixology skills – perhaps even sharing the secret to Isaac’s signature cocktails.
• Renewal of Vows:  Couples can reaffirm their love in a symbolic ceremony officiated by the “Love Boat” cast.
• Cast Q&As:  Join the stars for intimate sessions where they’ll share behind-the-scenes stories and career highlights.
• Themed Evenings:  From “The Love Boat” trivia to screenings of classic episodes, there’s endless nostalgia in store.
• Specialty Culinary Treats:  Delight your palate with dishes and cocktails inspired by the series.
• Exclusive Merchandise:  Take home commemorative souvenirs that celebrate this unique experience.

Ultimate Fan Experience: The “Love Boat” VIP Package

For the ultimate “Love Boat” enthusiast, the VIP Package offers exclusive perks:

• Cast Cocktail Party:  Rub shoulders with the stars at a private cocktail reception.
• Reserved Q&A Seating:  Enjoy the best seats in the house for cast Q&A sessions.
• Priority Photo & Autographs:  Jump to the front of the line for those cherished keepsakes.
• Captain’s Table Dinner:  Share a meal with the Captain and a member of the “Love Boat” cast.
• Themed Cruise Swag:  Receive a commemorative t-shirt and mug to showcase your fan pride.

Princess Cruises and the “The Love Boat” Legacy

“The Love Boat” holds a special place in television history, introducing cruising to a wider audience with its blend of humor, romance, and idyllic destinations.

In 2022, Princess Cruises was proudly featured in the CBS reality series “The Real Love Boat,” continuing the tradition of showcasing love and adventure on the high seas.

“Love Boat” Cruise Itinerary

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Princess cruises announces the love boat themed cruise with iconic original cast.

Fans Can Set a Course for Adventure, Love and Laughter Aboard Enchanted Princess Canada/New England Voyage, August 31-September 7, 2024

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. , Feb. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises, known for its integral role as the ocean-going co-star in the iconic "The Love Boat" series, has officially unveiled a second themed cruise, reuniting cast members from the original show. Following the tremendous success of the inaugural Love Boat cruise in 2022, fans of the popular show can sail along with Doc, Gopher, Isaac and Vicki Stubing as they cruise roundtrip from New York to Canada & New England aboard Enchanted Princess, August 31-September 7, 2024 .

Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador Jill Whelan (aka Vicki Stubing ) will join fellow Love Boat cast members including Bernie Kopell (Doc), Fred Grandy (Gopher), and Ted Lange (Isaac). Ezra Freeman , the bartender from the recently aired The Real Love Boat on CBS reality dating series, will join the cast, along with other surprise guests to be announced.

Highly anticipated Love Boat -themed activities, include:

Sailaway party introducing the cast

Meet-and-greet photo and signing opportunities

The Love Boat -inspired guest activities with prizes

Cocktail demonstration hosted by Ezra Freeman and Ted Lange – practice the finger point!

Symbolic renewal of vows ceremony, officiated by the cast, with commemorative certificate

Cast Q&As sharing favorite memories of the show and stories of their careers

The Love Boat episodes airing on Movies Under the Stars and in staterooms

The Love Boat trivia with the Cruise Director

The Love Boat inspired menus and specialty cocktails

Themed décor, photo backdrops and merchandise

"We had such a blast connecting with fans on our theme cruise in 2022, so bringing it back in 2024 feels like it was meant to be, especially with the addition of some surprise guests," said Jill Whelan , Celebrations Ambassador for Princess Cruises. "Sailing with our fans brings us so much joy and this cruise will undoubtedly be a special reunion, taking us back to where it all began – on a Princess Cruise ."

Super fans may opt for a special  Love Boat VIP Package , featuring an invitation to an exclusive cast cocktail party, reserved seating for the cast Q&A in the Princess Theater, front-of-the-line access for autographs and photos, dinner at the Captain's Table, plus a themed cruise t-shirt and mug. More details on cost and how to book coming soon.

The seven-day Canada /New England  Love Boat theme cruise aboard the 3,660-guest Enchanted Princess sails roundtrip from New York City and visits Newport, Rhode Island ; Boston ; Rockland, Maine ; Saint John, Canada (for Bay of Fundy); and Halifax, Canada .

The Love Boat is credited with bringing cruising to the masses and showcasing the romance of the sea, taking Hollywood's biggest stars to sought-after destinations as story lines always ended on a happy note. In the fall of 2022, Princess was featured again as the setting of The Real Love Boat on CBS and Paramount+, reality dating adventure series where three real-life Princess crew members and 12 singles looking for love joined hosts Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell onboard Regal Princess sailing through the Mediterranean.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com .

About Princess Cruises Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean , Alaska , Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe , South America , Australia / New Zealand , the South Pacific, Hawaii , Asia , Canada /New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/princess-cruises-announces-the-love-boat-themed-cruise-with-iconic-original-cast-302056377.html

SOURCE Princess Cruises

New Love Boat Theme Cruise Is Setting Sail – and They’re Expecting You

Sharing is caring!

Princess Cruises, whose ships were featured and are forever intertwined with The Love Boat series, has announced an upcoming theme cruise reuniting cast members from the original television show!

If you’re anything like me, your love affair with cruising may have started with the iconic television series, The Love Boat.

I can still recall the theme song “Love, exciting and new. Come aboard, we’re expecting you.”

Even though The Love Boat series aired from 1977-1986, the stars of the show remain popular today! So, imagine a chance to sail with Doc, Gopher, Isaac and Vicki Stubing on a Princess cruise ship.

After a successful inaugural Love Boat cruise in 2022, Princess Cruises is doing it again this year. Looking at this year’s schedule of Love Boat themed activities, this cruise is bound to be full of adventure and fun!

Love Boat Themed Cruise

Princess Cruises second Love Boat theme cruise will take place onboard Enchanted Princess on August 31-September 7, 2024.

Princess Cruises shared the following details in a press release:

The seven-day Canada/New England Love Boat theme cruise aboard the 3,660-guest Enchanted Princess sails roundtrip from New York City and visits Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Rockland, Maine; Saint John, Canada (for Bay of Fundy); and Halifax, Canada.

Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador Jill Whelan (aka Vicki Stubing) will join fellow Love Boat cast members including Bernie Kopell (Doc), Fred Grandy (Gopher), and Ted Lange (Isaac). Ezra Freeman, the bartender from the recently aired The Real Love Boat on CBS reality dating series, will join the cast, along with other surprise guests to be announced.

Highly anticipated Love Boat-themed activities, include:

• Sailaway party introducing the cast
• Meet-and-greet photo and signing opportunities
• The Love Boat-inspired guest activities with prizes
• Cocktail demonstration hosted by Ezra Freeman and Ted Lange – practice the finger point!
• Symbolic renewal of vows ceremony, officiated by the cast, with commemorative certificate
• Cast Q&As sharing favorite memories of the show and stories of their careers
• The Love Boat episodes airing on Movies Under the Stars and in staterooms
• The Love Boat trivia with the Cruise Director
• The Love Boat inspired menus and specialty cocktails
• Themed décor, photo backdrops and merchandise

Super fans may opt for a special  Love Boat VIP Package , featuring an invitation to an exclusive cast cocktail party, reserved seating for the cast Q&A in the Princess Theater, front-of-the-line access for autographs and photos, dinner at the Captain’s Table, plus a themed cruise t-shirt and mug. More details on cost and how to book coming soon.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company’s website at www.princess.com.

Final Thoughts

Would you be interested in sailing on a Love Boat theme cruise? I’m a big Love Boat fan and we had a fantastic time onboard Enchanted Princess last year – this cruise is tempting!

Are you still singing? “The love boat soon will be making another run. The love boat promises something for everyone…”

Please let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

* Featured photos courtesy of Princess Cruises

Hi Ilana. I love watching your YouTube tips! I am also a huge fan of The Love Boat! I’m not sure which I watch more! I seriously watch The Love Boat reruns every day! Excited to follow your FB page!

Haha I’m honored! Thanks for following our page & watching my YouTube videos. I agree, I love “The Love Boat”!

Ilana, love your You Tube videos!! They are so informative and done really well. My husband and I watch Love Boat every night. You definitely have to go on this cruise! 🙂

Thanks so much! Wow, you sound like big Love Boat fans!

I would love to come ! That sounds neat !! I watch your videos everyday ! I would love to meet you it would be an honor!

It would be fun! I don’t have plans to be on this cruise, for now, but it does sound appealing!

I just booked this cruise!! Are you going??

That’s so exciting!! Enjoy

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What's Up Newp

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‘The Love Boat’-themed cruise, with its iconic original cast, will stop in Newport this September

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You’re in luck if you’re a fan of the iconic “The Love Boat” series. Princess Cruises is bringing back some of the show’s most beloved cast members for an all-new adventure, and the ship is stopping in Newport, Rhode Island, this September.

The company announced the second season of The Love Boat-themed cruise on Friday, Aug. 31. The cruise will sail from New York to Canada and New England aboard the 3,660-guest Enchanted Princess.

The seven-day cruise will stop in Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Rockland, Maine; Saint John, Canada (for Bay of Fundy); and Halifax, Canada.

“We had such a blast connecting with fans on our theme cruise in 2022, so bringing it back in 2024 feels like it was meant to be, especially with the addition of some surprise guests,” said Jill Whelan, Celebrations Ambassador for Princess Cruises. “Sailing with our fans brings us so much joy and this cruise will undoubtedly be a special reunion, taking us back to where it all began – on a Princess Cruise.”

Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador Jill Whelan (aka Vicki Stubing) will join fellow  Love Boat  cast members including Bernie Kopell (Doc), Fred Grandy (Gopher), and Ted Lange (Isaac). Ezra Freeman, the bartender from the recently aired  The Real Love Boat  on CBS reality dating series, will join the cast, along with other surprise guests to be announced.

Fans will also enjoy a meet-and-greet with the cast, have a symbolic renewal of vows ceremony and participate in a cocktail demonstration hosted by Ezra Freeman and Ted Lange. Additional activities include a special Q&A with the cast, a tribute to the late loveboat character Doc, and a memorabilia package for guests.

The Love Boat  is credited with bringing cruising to the masses and showcasing the romance of the sea, taking Hollywood’s biggest stars to sought-after destinations as storylines always ended on a happy note. In the fall of 2022, Princess was featured again as the setting of The Real Love Boat on CBS and Paramount+, a reality dating adventure series where three real-life Princess crew members and 12 singles looking for love joined hosts Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O’Connell onboard Regal Princess sailing through the Mediterranean.

Princess Cruises and “The Love Boat” Connection

Princess Cruises’ provides the following background on the connection between their cruise line and “The Love Boat”.

It all began in the mid-70s when television producer Douglas S. Cramer, who had created the popular television series “Love American Style,” decided to shift his popular comedy vignette series from its studio setting to the decks and vacation venues of a (then) modern cruise ship. The resulting television show, “The Love Boat” has been widely credited with introducing millions of viewers to the concept of contemporary cruise vacations and leading to dramatic expansion of the industry and its global success.

Originally, in searching out a location for the movie pilot of what was to become his Love Boat television series, Cramer found the ideal setting with a cruise line that just happened to operate from its world headquarters in Los Angeles known globally today as Princess Cruises.

After the 1977 pilot show, which was shot aboard the line’s original Sun Princess in Mexico, Cramer teamed up with top television producer Aaron Spelling and the rest is history. “The Love Boat” went on to realize phenomenal success, continuing for 10 seasons until 1987 as one of the highest-rated prime-time television shows in the country. Princess Cruises soon became a household name as the primary setting and ocean-going co-star of the popular series and continues to be known as the “Love Boat” cruise line to this day. With ships Pacific Princess and Island Princess the original floating stars of the show, “The Love Boat” was filmed aboard many Princess ships in exotic destinations around the globe. The show, often the catalyst for introducing American viewers to destinations like Sydney, Australia and Opera House, the Great Wall of China, the Acropolis in Athens Greece. Occasional Love Boat television specials have been filmed since the show stopped production.

Actor Gavin MacLeod  (Captain Merrill Stubing)  remained an enthusiastic fan of cruising while serving as the spokesperson for Princess Cruises for more than 35 years (1986-2021), making him the longest-serving celebrity spokesperson in brand partnership history. Actress Jill Whelan  (Vicki Stubing)  continues to serve as Celebrations Ambassador and spokesperson for the cruise line.

In 1997, ten years after the show ended its original run, all six original Love Boat cast members — Gavin MacLeod  (Captain Stubing) , Fred Grandy  (Yeoman Purser, Burl ‘Gopher’ Smith) , Ted Lange (Isaac ‘The Bartender’ Washington), Bernie Kopell (Adam ‘Doc’ Bricker), Lauren Tewes  (Julie McCoy, Your Cruise Director)  and Jill Whelan  (Vicki Stubing, The Captain’s Daughter)  — reunited for the first time in more than a decade for the official naming ceremony and christening of Dawn Princess in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

In 1998 “The Love Boat” popularity was revived with a new version of the show introduced by Spelling Television. “Love Boat: The Next Wave,” which ran for two seasons on the UPN network, was also set aboard a Princess ship, the line’s new Sun Princess. A new cast of characters served as the Sun Princess officers and crew — including Robert Urich as Captain Jim Kennedy — and following the original show’s format, a series of guest stars joined the cast each week as cruise vacation guests.

The original cast also came together again in 2014, to kick off the 50th anniversary of Princess Cruises by officially naming and christening the new Regal Princess cruise ship in a star-studded event also featuring 25 guest stars from the show, including Charo, Florence Henderson, Marion Ross, Doris Roberts, Diane Ladd, Loni Anderson and Jamie Farr, to name a few. The cast continued to celebrate the golden anniversary of Princess and cruised down Colorado Blvd in Pasadena, California on the bow of a modern Princess cruise ship float in the iconic Rose Parade on New Year’s Day in 2015.

In May 2018, the six cast members of “The Love Boat” and Princess Cruises received an honorary star plaque on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of their contributions to the history of television and support of the preservation of the Walk of Fame.

The original “Love Boat” series is currently in worldwide syndication, having been translated into more than 29 different languages, and is viewed by millions of fans in more than 93 countries.

This article was reported with the assistance of generative artificial intelligence (AI).

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Cruise ship tour: Last look at the original 'Love Boat'

What does the death of an icon look like? Our latest Cruise Ship Tour , in the carousel above, offers a last look at one of the most famous cruise ships of the modern era, the Pacific Princess, which is being torn apart at a scrapyard in Turkey.

Recognizable to millions of Americans as the "Love Boat" of 1970s television, the one-time Princess Cruises vessel made its final voyage in August to the scrapyard after failing to sell to a new owner.

As you can see in the photo tour, by veteran cruise writer and ship photographer Peter Knego, the 42-year-old vessel is sandwiched between several other former cruise ships that are being dismantled in Turkey. In a trip down memory lane, Knego combines images taken during a recent trip to the scrapyard with historical exterior and interior shots taken over the past four decades.

For previous photo tours, click on the links below:

Alaska Marine Highway System (ferries): Kennicott Alaskan Dream Cruises: Admiralty Dream American Cruise Lines: Queen of the Mississippi American Queen Steamboat Company : American Queen Azamara Club Cruises: Azamara Journey Avalon Waterways: Avalon Panorama ; Avalon Expression ; Avalon Angkor Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Eclipse ; Celebrity Constellation ; Celebrity Century ; Celebrity Reflection ; Celebrity Solstice ; Celebrity Silhouette Carnival Cruise Lines: Carnival Magic ; Carnival Breeze ; Carnival Sunshine ; Carnival Breeze, Magic compared ; Carnival Destiny ; Carnival Ecstasy ; Carnival Splendor ; Carnival Inspiration ; Carnival Liberty ; Carnival Valor ; Carnival Dream Celebration Cruise Line: Bahamas Celebration Compagnie du Ponant: Le Boreal Costa Cruises: Costa Favolosa ; Costa Deliziosa Cruise & Maritime Voyages: Marco Polo ; Discovery Crystal Cruises: Crystal Symphony Cunard Line: Queen Mary 2 ; Queen Elizabeth ; Queen Victoria ; Queen Mary (retired) Disney Cruise Line: Disney Wonder ; Disney Fantasy and Dream compared ; Disney Fantasy ; Disney Dream Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines: Braemar Hapag-Lloyd: Europa ; Europa 2 Holland America Line: Nieuw Amsterdam ; Westerdam ; Eurodam ; Oosterdam ; Statendam Hurtigruten: Midnatsol Lindblad Expeditions: National Geographic Sea Lion Louis Cruises: Louis Majesty ; Louis Olympia ; Orient Queen MSC Cruises: MSC Fantasia ; MSC Divina ; MSC Preziosa Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Jade ; Norwegian Breakaway ; Norwegian Sky ; Norwegian Epic ; Norwegian Gem Oceania Cruises: Riviera ; Marina Paul Gauguin Cruises: Paul Gauguin Princess Cruises: Ruby Princess ; Crown Princess ; Grand Princess ; Emerald Princess ; last look at the 'Love Boat' ; Royal Princess under construction ; Royal Princess ; Sapphire Princess ; Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Seven Seas Mariner Royal Caribbean International: Oasis of the Seas ; Voyager of the Seas ; Grandeur of the Seas ; Jewel of the Seas ; Allure of the Seas Seabourn Cruise Line: Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Odyssey ; Seabourn Quest SeaDream Yacht Club: SeaDream I Silversea: Silver Spirit ; Silver Shadow Star Clippers: Star Flyer Un-Cruise Adventures: Safari Explorer ; Safari Endeavour ; Wilderness Discoverer ; S.S. Legacy Vantage Deluxe World Travel: River Discovery II ; River Splendor Viking River Cruises: Viking Odin ; Viking Bragi Voyages to Antiquity: Aegean Odyssey Windstar Cruises: Wind Surf ; Wind Star ; Wind Spirit

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The Meandering Traveler

A Travel Blog with Travel Tips and Interesting Facts

“The Love Boat” Rolls Out Three Main Dining Options on All Princess Ships

After a busy day exploring ashore or just having a fabulous, fun day at sea, we’re usually eager for dinner! Last month, The Meandering Traveler  cruised on the new 4,300-guest Sun Princess , and had the pleasure of learning about — and testing — one of the three main dining options unveiled for that “Love Boat.”

Even better, “The Love Boat” line has now announced that it will debut this new trio of dining room choices across its fleet. It’s a great idea given that no two people think alike. Certainly, no two cruise guests do when it comes to what they identify as their perfect main dining experience.

Some travelers are traditionalists. They prefer a fixed time for dinner, either an early or late seating. Other guests, in contrast, prefer to dine when they want, showing up anytime in the main dining room.

But in Princess’ thinking, there should be a third option — a reserved time of the guest’s choosing. We couldn’t agree more.

(Shown above is the three-level main dining room that debuted earlier this year on the new Sun Princess. Photo by Susan J. Young.)

Three Main Dining Options on “The Love Boat”

So, Princess is now debuting the ultimate in flexibility. Moving forward, all Princess ships will offer three table service options. Separate dining rooms will be designated for each of the three table options.

So, guests will choose one of these:

• Traditional Dining : Guests will select from either an early or late seating every evening.
• Reservable : Travelers will tell Princess what time they’d like to dine and make a reservation. So, they can dovetail their dining time with what they’ve planned for that day. They can dine either early or late within the restaurant’s opening hours. Most importantly, they’ll have a fixed time of their own choosing, and just show up.
• Open Seating : This is just how it sounds. Guests can walk in anytime. We tried this on Sun Princess and loved the options including “All Day Breakfast” and other tasty menu items.

Of course, all three options are also supplemented by the line’s OceanNow. With that exclusive service, guests can order anything, anytime, plus receive their food anywhere on board.

The Love Boat: Success with Sun Princess

The decision by Princess to make this main dining move follows the successful implementation on Sun Princess, where “The Love Boat” has introduced a new, three-level dining room. “Our guests have been delighted with the dining flexibility aboard Sun Princess,” says Sami Kohen, vice president of food and beverage, Princess Cruises.

So, he says the concept is going fleetwide. “ Now whether guests prefer an early seating every evening, or  change things up every night, or even change their mind, these flexible dining options ensure that their dining preference is effortlessly accommodated,” he adds.

When Will It Begin Fleetwide?

Timing-wise, the new main dining approach will debut on all Princess ships for departures on or after September 14, 2024. What’s good to know?

To support these changes and the transition to the new system, Princess will cancel any main dining reservations that have already been made for voyages sailing September 14 and beyond. That’s the case for all ships except Sun Princess .

Main dining reservations for guests sailing through September 13, 2024, will NOT be affected. Starting on June 17, booked guests will also be able to use the Princess App ahead of their voyage.

So, they can choose traditional seating in a dedicated dining room with the same waiter, same table and same time each night. Or, they can alternatively select flexible dining, allowing them to enjoy dinner at any available time and table size of their choosing in either the Reservable or Open Seating dining rooms.

Important to Know

“This change does not affect guests’ specialty dining reservations,” adds Shelby Steudle , president, Pavlus Travel. “Nor does it impact guests booked in suites or reserve collection accommodations. They’ll enjoy a dedicated dining room on Princess ships, where no reservations are required.”

For more information about Princess Cruises, visit the line’s website . For information and booking of a Princess cruise, check out the information below and give Pavlus Travel a call or chat online.

“The Love Boat” always gets much interest from cruisers, so readers might also check out our past blog that includes interview comments from Jill Whelan. The actress played “Vicki,” Captain Stubing’s daughter, in the original TV series.

And enjoy any upcoming cruise you’re planning this year! Across the cruise industry, many lines including Princess are debuting new options. So, bon appetit!

Important Notes from  Pavlus Travel

• For information about the best deals, sign up for Pavlus’ email newsletter, which  spotlights terrific pricing  on a multitude of cruise and travel options. Readers can simply add their email to the sign-up box on the top right corner of the  Pavlus Travel website .
• If anything tweaks your interest in this blog above, and you DO have questions about specific pricing, brochures, savings, accommodations, accessible options and so on, please contact us at   800-528-9300. 
• Or  visit us online at Pavlus Travel’s official agency Web site;  t here you can “live chat” with us online too!
• This blog site provides “basic, general information” about travel. It’s not staffed by travel advisors.
• Any price examples and included vacation features in blogs are subject to change. They also don’t represent the full range of options; a travel advisor can assist with additional information.
• Please don’t use the Reply Section below if you are asking for pricing, travel dates, accommodations, brochures or other specific requests. Please use the 800 number or online link. 

Susan J. Young

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Love Exploring

A Retro Look At Cruises Through The Decades

Posted: November 29, 2023 | Last updated: November 29, 2023

Sailing through time

1830s: the very beginnings

1840s: the first pleasure cruises

1840s: a landmark in cruise-line history

1850–60s: early developments

Passenger cruising continued to develop through the mid-19th century, with luxuries like on-board lounges and simple entertainment emerging. Shown here, in 1856, is Cunard's RMS Persia, one of the largest ships of her time and an early Blue Riband winner (an award given for high-speed Atlantic crossings).

1870s: the New World

1880s: lighting up the ocean

1890s: “floating palaces”

1900s: entering cruising’s golden age

At the turn of the century, there was still a frisson around cruising and large, buzzy crowds would often gather to see off the ships. This nostalgic photograph was snapped between 1900 and 1915, and shows large steam boats leaving from the White Star Line dock in Detroit, Michigan. Well-dressed passengers fill the ships' upper and lower decks too.

1900s: the first purpose-built cruise ship

1910s: onboard entertainment

1910s: the Titanic disaster

One of the most famous and devastating events in cruise history occurred in this decade. Dubbed "unsinkable" by the White Star Line's vice-president, the Titanic set out from Southampton on her maiden voyage on 10 April 1912 to much applause. But just four days later, she collided with an iceberg in the North Atlantic: the compartments in her hull filled with water and she tragically sank. The disaster claimed the lives of more than 1,500 people.

1910s: First World War

1920s: cruising’s golden age continued

1920s: setting the bar high

1920s: a festive feast

1920s: the first round-the-world cruise

Another major milestone came in the 1920s: the very first round-the-world cruise. The Cunard Line's RMS Laconia (pictured here leaving Liverpool circa 1920) sailed around the globe in 1922, calling at 22 ports along the way, and taking 450 lucky passengers with her.

1930s: all games on deck

1930s: making a splash

1940s: post-war cruising

1950s: the post-war decades

Come the 1950s, cruise ships had another phenomenon to compete with: jet planes. Commercial air travel boomed in this decade, with comfier aircraft and improved routes enticing travelers into the skies. Many cruise liners underwent swish post-war refits in an attempt to stay afloat: this 1950s photo shows the opulent dining room of French liner SS Île de France after a dramatic post-war makeover.

1950s: going Down Under

1950s: the Blue Riband record breaker

Though formalized in the 1930s, the Blue Riband – the award for the passenger cruise liner with the fastest Atlantic-crossing time – has its roots right back in the 19th century. The record is still held by SS United States of United States Lines, which first sped across the Atlantic in 1952. She's pictured here on 9 July 1952, docking in Southampton.

1960s: the Jet Age

1970s: The Love Boat

As flying became more commonplace, the popularity of cruising looked set to dwindle. However, one particular TV series is often credited with keeping travelers' passion for cruising alive. The Love Boat – aired from the 1970s – was a comedy series that followed the crew and passengers of luxury liner SS Pacific Princess. Such was its popularity, some say it brought cruising back into the mainstream once more. This shot shows Cunard Line's Queen Elizabeth 2 in 1975. 

1970s: cruising opens up to the masses

1980s: the cruise to nowhere

The 1980s is thought to be the decade that pioneered the "cruise to nowhere," where the ship really was the destination. The SS Norway (pictured) – a lavish mega ship with room for thousands of passengers and amenities like a casino – embarked on a no-docking cruise in this decade.

1990s: Disney takes to the water

2000s: making waves in the modern world

The 2000s saw larger-than-life, no-expense-spared, mega cruise ships sail onto the scene. This sunset snap shows Cunard Line's Queen Mary II as she completes her first trans-Atlantic voyage in January 2004. At this time, she was the largest and most expensive cruise ship ever constructed with room for 2,200-plus passengers, a theater and even a planetarium, setting the bar for the ships of posterity. 

2010s: bigger, better and healthier

2020s: off to a rocky start

The 2020s got off to an eventful start. The COVID-19 pandemic halted almost all cruises, with some passengers and crew marooned onboard while testing and entry protocols were debated. In 2021 rife cancellations, last-minute border changes and variant outbreaks persisted. However, the years since have indicated a return to pre-pandemic popularity, with 300 cruise ships departing in April 2022 – pretty impressive compared to just 22 departing in April 2021. Cruise lines have incorporated more health and safety protocols, such as advising passengers to control their TV, light and temperature via an app instead of touchpoints. 

If this has floated your boat, here's where to see the world's most famous ships

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Romantic Cruises

Sail "the love boat" for the most romantic moments at sea.

Best Cruise Line For Romance

Cruise Critic

It could be exploring a faraway land or taking in a sunset from your balcony. Dancing the night away in a cozy lounge or enjoying an intimate meal and conversation in an elegant restaurant. Your favorite moment with your soulmate could be anything – or everything – when you choose the “Best Cruise Line for Romance.”*

*2016 Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards

Romantic Cruise Destinations

Let a getaway get you closer. And come back more in love than ever… when you sail with Princess to the world’s most romantic locales.

The Caribbean: treasure your time together

Turquoise waters, swaying palms, secluded white-sand beaches: this is bliss. It’s no wonder the Caribbean is our top destination for weddings, honeymooners and couples just craving an escape. With over 30 island ports to choose from, the two of you can sightsee, snorkel, shop… or, yes, just lounge side-by-side. Because sometimes the most romantic thing you can do together is nothing at all.

The Mediterranean: timeless places, priceless moments

Where will you write the next chapters of your love story? Swimming Corfu’s sparkling waters; cozied up in a Venetian gondola; people-watching in a Paris café; biking the Tuscan hills; or strolling the streets of Rome? Let the destination experts take you to these enchanting settings. You two can take it from there. When you share the world with the one you love, you create memories to share forever.

Hawaii: Paradise found

It’s just the two of you – discovering a hidden waterfall, strolling a black-sand beach under a scarlet sunset, gazing up at a billion gleaming stars. You’re not dreaming. You’re in Maui or Kauai on a relaxing, romantic Princess vacation. Lose yourselves in the natural wonders of Hawaii and you’ll find the true meaning of Paradise: experiencing the perfect place with that special person.

Experiences to Share

Revel in your time together – try something new, explore somewhere extraordinary or simply relax and reconnect.

Entertainment you'll love

See how it takes two to tango in a ballroom dance class. Request the song you call yours from the live band. Test how well you know each other in the Marriage Match Game Show. Get on the Kiss Cam at the Love Boat Disco Deck Party. Learn how to say “I love you” in a different language. Opportunities to bond are everywhere.

A passion for great food

Apologies to Shakespeare, but food is the food of love. Imagine Valentine’s Day without chocolate, or a date without Champagne. Not here. Savor a romantic dinner for two at one of our specialty restaurants or on your private balcony. Sweeten the deal with a chocolate and wine tasting. Play, or rather, eat on!

Romantic escapades

Ride a horse-drawn carriage through Tuscan vineyards. Share a picnic lunch after visiting an active volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii. Surround yourself with beauty in bloom at the Butchart Gardens in Victoria. Rediscover your sense of wonder and why you fell in love in the first place on award-winning excursions.

Relax on the best cruise for couples

Leave the hustle and bustle behind in the  Lotus Spa® , your haven away from home. Indulge in a couples’ massage. Primp for formal night — or just a night out — with any of our special salon services. Make the most of days free of obligation, where the only item on your to-do list is enjoying spending time together.

Occasions to Celebrate

Relationship milestones are always worth commemorating, and here you’ll find them treated with the fanfare they deserve.

An Anniversary to remember

Reflect on the road you’ve traveled together in quiet moments and larger-than-life adventures. It’s easy at sea, when you have the time and space to focus on one another. Anniversaries are the most popular reason our guests sail, so we make sure they get their due, offering packages that add a festive touch. Better yet, renew your vows in a personalized ceremony on board.

Princess® perfect weddings (and more to love)

As The Love Boat®, we're all about romance. Come aboard for a wedding ceremony or vow renewal, performed by your ship’s captain! You can't beat the cost and convenience — we handle every detail for much less than land-based venues — or the views.

Embarking on adventure together

Pop the question with a Princess® Perfect Proposal package that makes sure it all goes without a hitch (except the one you want). Planning your honeymoon? The sea is the limit with more than 250 itineraries to 330 destinations.

See the options for your proposal and your honeymoon as well as other romance packages

The joy of the holidays

Sing “Auld Lang Syne” as balloons drop on a New Year’s sailing that kicks off the new year in style. Make this the best Valentine’s Day ever on “The Love Boat,” enjoying events and activities you won’t find anywhere else. When every day is like a holiday, special celebrations occur on an even grander scale.

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Middle East latest: Iran tells Israel 'our hands are on the trigger' and warns it knows where its nuclear sites are

US sources have reportedly said Israel is unlikely to attack Iran until after the major Jewish holiday ends later this month. Meanwhile, Iran warns it may review its nuclear doctrine, amid suggestions Israel could target nuclear facilities in the country.

Thursday 18 April 2024 17:37, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• 'Our hands are on the trigger': Iran warns it knows where Israel's nuclear sites are
• US-Israeli talks on Rafah offensive and Iran under way
• UK and US announce Iran sanctions
• Israel 'unlikely' to launch attack on Iran until after Passover'
• Google 'fires 28 workers involved in protests' against billion-dollar Israel contract
• Israel hit Iran's consulate 'after two months of planning'
• Eyewitness: Eerie quiet as Israeli border towns brace for war
• Analysis: How seriously should we take the nuclear rhetoric?
• Live reporting by Ollie Cooper

An update on our 3.40pm post now. 

Virtual talks between the US and Israel on a potential offensive on Rafah have begun, according to White House national security spokesperson John Kirby. 

National security adviser Jake Sullivan is said to be leading the talks from the US side, with participation from Joe Biden's Middle East envoy, Brett McGurk, among others - although the president himself is not in attendance.

Israel's strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer and national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi are heading the Israeli delegation in the virtual talks, an Israeli official told the Reuters news agency. 

Israel's response to Iran's weekend aerial offensive is also expected to be being discussed. 

This is a follow-up discussion to the 1 April meeting on the same issue, which is said to have included raised voices, waving of arms, and US officials who did not believe the Israeli plans for dealing with the humanitarian concerns around the operation were realistic.

Rafah is the only major city in Gaza yet to be assaulted by Israeli troops from the ground, but hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians crammed into the city have still been subjected to airstrikes over the past few months. 

Joe Biden has consistently urged Israel not to conduct a large-scale offensive in Rafah to avoid more Palestinian civilian casualties in Gaza, where Hamas-led health authorities say nearly 34,000 people have been killed since October last year. 

By Alistair Bunkall , Middle East correspondent 

In their actions, Iranian leaders are often calibrated and considered, in language they tend to favour the dramatic.

The Iranian regime is fully aware by now of the power their words can have. 

Fiery rhetoric about its nuclear policy can and does grab world headlines, prompting Tehran-watchers to ask whether the threats are real or just talk.

Fears this week that Israel could seek to hit nuclear facilities inside Iran in retaliatory strikes have clearly spooked Tehran on some level. 

Israel has nuclear weapons, Iran doesn’t.

The threat by a senior IRGC commander to review the country's nuclear doctrine is underpinned by a firm conviction to defend itself against Israel.

Iran has insisted for years that its nuclear programme exists for purely civilian and peaceful reasons. 

Israel and many of its Western allies believe Tehran only wants to develop a nuclear weapon.

Iran is threatening Israel - strike at us and we will formally move to develop a nuclear weapon and speed up enrichment.

A major strike by Israel on Iran might only serve to convince Iran that the only deterrent against further attacks is to accelerate development of nuclear weapon. 

It's been a busy day in the Middle East and internationally, so let's bring you an evening round-up of the key happenings so far...

• The US and Israel are said to be holding virtual discussions on a potential invasion of Rafah over the coming hours;
• Iran has threatened to strike Israeli nuclear sites if it retaliates for a massive drone and missile assault last weekend;
• The US and UK have announced fresh sanctions against Tehran;
• Reports emerged suggesting Israel will not strike Iran until after Passover (30 April);
• The Houthis claim to have carried out some 14 operations in waters surrounding the Middle East over the past two weeks. 

By Alex Rossi , international correspondent on the Israel-Lebanon border

The roads through northern Israel along the border with Lebanon are empty of cars.

It is unnervingly quiet.

Since 7 October the area has been under bombardment from Hezbollah militants and tens of thousands of people have left following the government's evacuation rules.

Ariel Frish, the deputy head of security, in Kiryat Shmona, a frontline city, shows me the damage in a residential area.

A house is gutted from fire caused by the explosion from the strike.

"We got attacked by a great wave of missiles, one of the missiles hit this house," he said. 

"Nobody was here because we evacuated the city one week before. And if we had not evacuated there would be no survivors.”

The Israel Defence Forces and Hezbollah have been exchanging fire on a daily basis in the north for more than six months - and it feels like a full scale war may not be far away.

Walking through the communities in the north is eerie. 

You can hear the sound of birdsong and the constant noise of drones and warplanes circling overhead.

A short distance from the Lebanese border and former IDF commander, Gideon Harari, who lives in one of the communities in the line of fire, says a major confrontation is looking more likely everyday.

The situation with Iran and the standoff with Hezbollah, as well as the war in Gaza, make this an incredibly dangerous time for the region.

"The shooting is daily. Rockets, drones everyday," he said. 

"Now is the most dangerous point in the Middle East for the last forty years. If Israel will take military measures against Iran it might drive us into a Middle East war, a big war."

The internally displaced have moved to hotels and guesthouses in safer parts of Israel.

In Tiberias the evacuees can only wonder when it will be safe to return.

"The mood of the people in Israel is very frustrated. And it is very dangerous to live here," says Daniel Boker, who left his hometown of Metula on the border, months ago.

Tensions are now the highest they’ve been for decades and that’s reflected in the preparations Israel is making.

The national ambulance service, Magen David Adom, has been stockpiling equipment in an underground facility. Chief of staff Uri Shacham, tells me 7 October has changed everything.

"We are preparing for a long-term campaign or long-term war," he said.

"If you had talked to me in September 2023, I would have said we have a supply for one month. 

"Nowadays, because of what we are expecting, [we are] preparing... many more month's [worth] of equipment."

Israel now faces crisis on multiple fronts but it is clear the current situation in the north is increasingly untenable. 

It will not take much for a broader war to break out.

The head of the Yemeni Houthi militia claims that the group has carried out some 14 operations in the past two weeks alone. 

Abdul Malik al Houthi said the operations were carried out in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, the Arabian Sea and even reaching the Indian Ocean.

"There is no danger to maritime traffic related to [ships linked to] European countries that are not heading to Israel," he added in a televised speech.

The US and Israel will hold a virtual meeting about a possible ground invasion of Rafah today at the White House, two officials have told our partner network NBC News. 

Today's meeting will be chaired by National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, and will include representatives from the Pentagon including senior US military planners. 

However, President Joe Biden is not expected to attend. 

US President Joe Biden has released a short statement on the freshly announced sanctions against Iran.

The US said its measures targeted 16 individuals and two entities enabling Iran's UAV production, including engines that power Iran's Shahed drones (see 2.32pm post for more detail).

Here is the president's statement in full:

"Less than a week ago, Iran launched one of the largest missile and drone attacks the world has ever seen against Israel. Together with our allies and partners, the United States defended Israel. 

"We helped defeat this attack. 

"And today, we are holding Iran accountable—imposing new sanctions and export controls on Iran.

"The sanctions target leaders and entities connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran's defence ministry, and the Iranian government's missile and drone program that enabled this brazen assault. 

"As I discussed with my fellow G7 leaders the morning after the attack, we are committed to acting collectively to increase economic pressure on Iran. 

"And our allies and partners have or will issue additional sanctions and measures to restrict Iran's destabilizing military programs.

"During my administration, the United States has sanctioned over 600 individuals and entities—including Iran and its proxies, Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Kataib Hezbollah.

"And we will keep at it. 

"I've directed my team, including the department of the treasury, to continue to impose sanctions that further degrade Iran's military industries.

"Let it be clear to all those who enable or support Iran's attacks: The United States is committed to Israel's security. 

"We are committed to the security of our personnel and partners in the region. 

"And we will not hesitate to take all necessary action to hold you accountable."

US officials have flatly denied reports (see our 1.15pm post) that the Biden administration gave a green light to Israel's plans to assault Rafah in return for Israel holding off on striking Iran, according to Axios .

The news site reported the US and Israel will hold high-level virtual meetings today about the possible operation in Rafah.

American officials told Axios the US was still concerned an offensive would lead to a huge number of civilian casualties.

The US and Israel have been discussing the IDF's plans for Rafah at a lower level for several weeks, the officials said.

The IDF presented plans for a "gradual" operation in specific neighbourhoods that would be warned in advanced, Axios reported.

The UK and US have sanctioned Iranian firms involved in drone and missile production.

The general staff of Iran's armed forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy are among 13 new designations under the UK's sanctions regime.

Several Iranian military organisations, individuals and entities related to drone and ballistic missile industries were included.

The US said its measures targeted 16 individuals and two entities enabling Iran's UAV production, including engines that power Iran's Shahed drones.

The American treasury said it was designating five companies providing component materials for steel production to Iran's Khuzestan Steel Company or purchasing KSC's finished steel products.

Also targeted by the US were three subsidiaries of Iranian automaker Bahman Group, which it said had materially supported Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

In Khan Younis, photographs taken by Reuters show a destroyed school.

Two boys, Abed al-Qara and Muhammad al-Fajem, were seen walking among the ruins.

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