Cruise lines catering to adults
As illustrated by recent developments, the trend for cruise lines appears to be offering more peace and serenity for adult cruisers. Two examples:
—Celebrity cruises is offering a new series of interactive activities themed around healthy eating choices.
—Princess Cruises completed adding to its fleet the adults-only retreat, the Sanctuary, which it labels a “pocket of tranquility.”
“The new activities will draw on Rodale’s expertise in health and wellness; the first of these activities are themed around Rodale’s New York Times best-selling ‘Eat This, Not That!’ series,” says a news release about Celebrity.
That’s an interactive trivia game that challenges guests’ knowledge of healthy eating and promotes ways to make smart choices when dining out.
“Our guests have told us how fulfilling our wellness activities are, particularly in a world where schedules are hectic and vacation time is so precious,” said Dominique Bonavita, Director, Product Development. “The collaboration with Rodale is a new evolution of programming that enriches our guests’ lives long after their cruise.”
As for Princess, all of its 14 ships are now equipped with the popular retreat.
The concept started on the Crown Princess in 2006.
The Sanctuary’s open-air spaces are away from the hubbub – kids, activities, live music – of the pools and open decks.
Adult passengers pay a fee ($10 for a morning or afternoon time period) to lounge in plush seating in sun or shade. Passengers are attended by "serenity stewards."
MP3 players supply some entertainment. Massages in private, open-air cabanas and signature beverages and light meals are available for an extra fee.
Princess' new 3,600-passenger Royal Princess, due in 2013, will have an expanded version of The Sanctuary. It will also have an adults-only pool.
By David Wilkening

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