Queen Victoria Christen

Cunard Line announced today that the 90,000-ton Queen Victoria will be Christen by the Duchess of Cornwall - also known by us commoners as Camilla Parker-Bowles, the wife of Princess Charles. The Ceremony will be December 10 in Southhamton, England and the Prince is expected to attend.

The President Carol Marlow of Cunard said " We are most honored that Her Royal Highness will name our newest Cunarder. Every one of our Cunard Queens has been named by a member of the Royal Family and we are therefore delighted that Queen Victoria will follow in that tradition."

Carnival's Adult only Retreat

Carnival Cruise Line announced their new, "Serenity Adult Retreat". This area is design to be an oecan-going oasis for relaxation, tranquility and comfort. The new "Serenity" areas are part of Carnival’s $250 million "Evolutions of Fun" ship enhancement initiative which is resulting in a dramatic transformation of the line’s eight "Fantasy-class" vessels. The Carnival Inspiration will be the first Carnival ship to feature this when she emerges from a month long dry dock in early October. Digital renderings of the new "Serenity" adults-only area, along with images of various other "Evolutions of Fun" initiatives, including the "Carnival WaterWorks" aqua parks and redesigned pool areas, can be viewed at www.evolutionsoffun.com

Costa Maya Port Damaged

As Hurricane Dean came through on Tuesday morning, Costa Maya, one of Mexico's fastest growing destination, was seriously damaged. The port's infrastructure was estimated to be 50% distroyed, including the cruise ship pier. An early estimate indicates that the port will remain closed for 6 to 8 months. For more information visit Costa Maya's website And for a complete story on the Hurricane Dean check out the Environment News Service.

RCI - Genesis Class Ship

Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale may become the homeport for Royal Caribbean's $1.2 billion, 5,400-passenger Ship, when it debut in 2009 and 2010. In order to accommodate these megaships Port Everglades will have to undergo a $37 million expansion of Terminal 18, said Ellen Kennedy, port spokeswoman. The port predicts the ship's year round presence would create 3,800 jobs, producing total income of $172 million.