Read the transcript of  yesterday’s ‘”Twitterview’ by Andy Stuart (Norwegian Cruise Line’s executive vice president of global sales and passenger services) of ExpertCruiser.  It was a lively hour of fun and cruise industry talk.

nclandy: @xriva I am glad you found the CNBC special useful and interesting. We look forward to welcoming you back. #cruise #ncltt http://ow.ly/T2yE
about 21 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: RT @OrlandoChris: Thank you @nclandy and @ExpertCruiser for an interesting discussion #ncltt #cruise Thanks Chris!
about 21 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

CruiseLog: Count me in! … RT @nclandy: @theflaggagency we will of course include @cruiselog in the festivities! #cruise #ncltt
about 21 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

theflaggagency: @nclandy Knowing your biggest challenge will of course be satellite availability. #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

theflaggagency: @nclandy I wish you would borrow a page from RCI but instead have a live tweeter(s) giving updates as NCL Epic crosses. #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy So we’re on for a sea trial? And a contest for a fellow “Twitter’er”? That would be cool! #cruise #ncltt
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cruiseguy: What does @ExpertCruiser think about NCL’s Epic addition? #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet

OrlandoChris: Thank you @nclandy and @ExpertCruiser for an interesting discussion #ncltt #cruise
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

nclandy: @theflaggagency we will of course include @cruiselog in the festivities! #cruise #ncltt
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cruiseguy: @nclandy @CruiseExpert Andy, you said 1 hour. Still have 10 minutes #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Yikes, I type too fast sometimes. I thought I was adding #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser Thanks for joining us today. We welcome questions, so Tweet us @nclandy & @ExpertCruiser and use the #ncltt at the end of…
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Hi Andy, it was a pleasure! Anytime, this was a lot of fun! #cruise #ncltt
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cruiseguy: Not sure where @CruiseLog Gene, the Dancing Machine is.@theflaggagency Does @cruiselog know about this new contest? #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser we have taken a lot of your time but really enjoyed the chat. I think we have sadly run out of time. #cruise #ncltt
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nclandy: @theflaggagency thanks for the great summary of the discussion so far!! #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @theflaggagency Oh man…this could get scary! #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

theflaggagency: Does @cruiselog know about this new contest? #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

ExpertCruiser: RT @nclandy: @ExpertCruiser do you think we should bring @Cruiseguy? #cruise #ncltt NO! LOL Of course we have to bring “THE CRUISE GUY”
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

ExpertCruiser: @cruiseguy There’s nothing like camping on a cruise ship to make you realize everything that we take for granted on a regular cruise #ncltt
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theflaggagency: So @nclandy is hosting a porn sea trial and @expertcruiser and @cruiseguy are covering it for the industry? #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser do you think we should bring @Cruiseguy? #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Great idea! I really think that would be special and truly unique. #cruise #ncltt
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cruiseguy: @ExpertCruiser How do sea trials help you better understand? Crew parties? #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Honestly, the biggest change was started by NCL the Freestyle dining concept revolutionized #cruise ing Everyone copied! #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser we will look at a trip to experience seatrials maybe we shld run a contest 4 a fellow twitterer to join us – thoughts? #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy I absolutely loved experiencing sea trials – would do it again in a heartbeat. Helps me understand the industry better. #ncltt
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nclandy: @Cruiseguy i am not sure you are going to be forgiven so quickly this time! #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy I will add we were supposed to be on @Silversea for 3 nights, but ended up being 2. We had a pilot boat take us off #cruise #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser What is the single biggest change you have seen in the cruise industry? #cruise #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser so sea trials are something you would be interested in participating in again? #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy I think NCL should do a sea trial story. This being a new prototype ship for the company Readers LOVE inside stories #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

cruiseguy: Isn’t it already? RT @ExpertCruiser @nclandy I think my site would be listed in the porn cat if I had photos of that episode. #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet
nclandy: @ExpertCruiser Good point on the porn category, glad you kept it clean! #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from HootSuite · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Actually our sea trials were cut early – bearing problem http://bit.ly/7CPLbY (expand) It shows why sea trials are necessary. #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy I think my site would be listed in the porn category if I had photos of that episode. #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser how were the sea trials and how long did they last, we have talked about a similar trip but sea trials are quite long? #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Biggest opportunities will be expanding destinations, more accessible cruising options from the U.S. #cruise #ncltt
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theflaggagency: Follow along with #ncltt as @nclAndy puts @expertcruiser in the hot seat.
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet
nclandy: @ExpertCruiser – not surprised the naked freestyling story was your biggest ever – no pictures in the link?? #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy I think the biggest challenge will be pricing the product and the possibility of oil hitting record highs again. #cruise #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser What do you think the biggest challenges and opportunities are for the cruise industry in 2010 #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy My biggest read #cruise story of ‘09 was when I went on @Silversea Silver Spirit sea trials. People like behind-the-scenes #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy I will say NCL treated the couple great. Were MORE than generous — poor window washer though – wonder about him #cruise #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser What was your biggest story of 2009? #cruise #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser thanks for the plug for the NCL PR team – they do a great job! #cruise #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy My most popular column ever was a couple on NCL doing naked freestyling with the window open http://bit.ly/8tiO6A (expand) #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

cruiseguy: @ExpertCruiser @nclandy I feel like a co-host now! #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser if anyone would like to see the CNBC special they can click this link http://ow.ly/T2yE #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from HootSuite · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Cruise lines that answer my queries quickly make my life easier. Thankfully that gals in the NCL PR department are great! #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser RT @cruiseguy: @NCLAndy Please ask Anita what was her most popular NCL related column, ever? #ncltt #cruise
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy That’s great news Andy! #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser Is there something a cruise line does that helps make your life easier as a leading cruise writer? #cruise #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser the year of the freestyle vacation is a strong consumer proposition and has been very well received so far #cruise #ncltt
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cruiseguy: @NCLAndy Please ask Anita what was her most popular NCL related column, ever? #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser the CNBC special also runs frequently which has been a big positive to the whole experience #cruise #ncltt
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nclandy: @ExpertCruiser this is my interview, but I’ll answer! yes we were plzd we did the CNBC special w’ @PeterSGreenberg it has been v. gd #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from HootSuite · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: RT @nclandy: @ExpertCruiser this is my interview, but I’ll answer! Hee hee #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet
ExpertCruiser: @nclandy So the “The Year of the Freestyle Vacation” promotion w/upgrades /savings certificates up to $400 are working? #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: @expertcruiser would love 2 give cruises to loyal #twitter followers, but it’s wave season & they are selling fast right now! #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from HootSuite · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Are you glad NCL did the @PeterSGreenberg special? #cruise #ncltt
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cruiseguy: @ExpertCruiser @NCLAndy @NCLFreestyle Do all of the Twitterview participants here today get a FREE NCL #cruise too? #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser That’s great to hear, we have been very pleased with it as well and get lots of positive feedback from viewers #cruise #ncltt
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WeJustGotBack: I agree! RT @ExpertCruiser @nclandy I think NCL’s CNBC special with @PeterSGreenberg is one of best #cruise story coverage ever. #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet
ExpertCruiser: @nclandy NCL just gave away 7-day #cruises to audience of Ellen DeGeneres show can u do that right now for our loyal Twitter fans? #ncltt
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ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Andy, yes. I actually think NCL’s CNBC special with @PeterSGreenberg is one of the best #cruise story coverage ever. #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser Do you think the cruise industry does a good job telling it’s story to the media and beyond? #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: RT @nclandy: @ExpertCruiser What was the first #cruise #ncltt Actually it was 1998
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

ExpertCruiser: RT @nclandy: @ExpertCruiser What was the first #cruise #ncltt Carnival Fascination out of San Juan during Hurricane Georges in 1999
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser What was the first #cruise #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: @cruiseguy You are a naughty boy! @nclandy I’ll excuse him today. He passed up a hot lunch date for our Twitterview :) #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Actually by accident, I was covering airlines for publications. Went on a family #cruise wrote about it they wanted more #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

CruiseLog: Twitter #cruise talk alert: @NCLFreestyle’s @nclandy has just begun “twitterview” with @ExpertCruiser. Follow at http://bit.ly/1tH0QG (expand) #ncltt
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

nclandy: @ExpertCruiser Ignore @Cruiseguy we have as long as we need! #cruise #ncltt
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cruiseguy: @ExpertCruiser We don’t have an hour, Anita. Some of us work and don’t go on vacation as often as you! #ncltt
about 23 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: How did you become @ExpertCruiser? #ncltt
about 23 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet

cruiseguy: Should be interesting! RT @ExpertCruiser @nclandy Twitterview – join for a fun chat on all things @NCLFreestyle #cruise #travel #ncltt
about 23 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

ExpertCruiser: @nclandy Thanks Andy. I am looking forward to an hour of fun and #cruise Freestyle! #ncltt
about 23 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet · Show ConversationHide Conversation

nclandy: Give a hearty #Twitter welcome to @ExpertCruiser. U can follow us today at http://bit.ly/1tH0QG (expand) #ncltt #cruise
about 23 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet

nclandy: Good afternoon, today’s Twitteriew guest is an expert cruiser with her own #cruise blog and weekly columns on MSNBC.com. #ncltt
about 23 hours ago from web · Reply · View Tweet

ExpertCruiser: Five more minutes for @nclandy Twitterview – join us for a fun chat on all things @NCLFreestyle and #cruise #travel #ncltt
about 23 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

ExpertCruiser: Getting ready for #cruise Twitterview with @nclandy at 1:30 – what will he ask me? What will you guys ask me? Tune in! #ncltt
about 23 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

ExpertCruiser: What will @nclandy ask me? It will be an ‘Epic’ tweetfest for sure! ;) #cruise #ncltt
about 24 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

ExpertCruiser: RT @nclandy: Preparing for twitterview with @ExpertCruiser this afternoon at 1.30pm EST #cruise #ncltt Can’t wait Andy!
about 24 hours ago from TweetDeck · Reply · View Tweet

nclandy: Preparing for twitterview with @ExpertCruiser this afternoon at 1.30pm EST, any questions you would like me to ask? #cruise #ncltt
1 day ago from HootSuite · Reply · View Tweet

Janice Harding calls the blasting “boom boom music” from the Disney Magic’s Goofy Pool and Mickey Pool too much to take. “My kids love it, but I can only take so much before I feel a headache coming on,” says the Los Angeles native.

She is referring to the loud music, usually accompanied by overexcited children and adults that has become the hallmark of the majority of large cruise liner main pool decks. Although Harding loves her kids she tends to bolt from the loudness; after all she wants to truly relax on her cruise so she escapes to the adults-only area on the Disney Magic.

Adult-only areas are clearly needed on ships that are full of children. When Disney Cruise Line launched in 1998 it recognized the need for adult-only areas when it designed its ships. Both Disney vessels offer several spaces dedicated for adult activities, which includes a pool area, coffee bar and nightclub. “A lot of parents onboard appreciate the adults-only area. It’s our quiet space with no loud music or cell phones ringing. It’s a godsend as we can relax and get into vacation mode,” adds Harding.

No kids allowed

Harding is not alone, and a number of cruise lines are increasingly catering to passengers seeking tranquility with the introduction of quiet, adults-only areas on their ships. Long ago Royal Caribbean International recognized the need for these places when it introduced the adults-only Solarium areas on its Vision-class ships. These peaceful spaces lie under cover of a sliding roof and feature a large pool surrounded by chaise lounges and a hot tub or two, with exotic design motifs including bronze statues, stone reliefs, tile mosaics and tropical foliage. On the Freedom-class vessels there are two large hot tubs cantilevered out 12 feet from the sides of the ship. Suspended 112 feet above the ocean, the hot tubs offer breathtaking, panoramic views. Guests willing to immerse themselves in the experience find music piped in underwater, a photo collage behind glass depicting a coral reef, and a glass wall that allows them to look into the atrium adjacent to the pool while submerged.

In 2006, Princess Cruises unveiled the Sanctuary on the Crown Princess. This adults-only, quiet retreat is located in uppermost forward deck of the ship and is covered by white awnings and populated with trees, abundant plush loungers and massage cabanas. But, this area is not free as Princess charges $15 for four-and-a-half-hour stays. The charge includes chilled face towels and Evian water atomizers dispensed by stewards while guests relax. For an additional charge, guests can order from a menu of healthy food options such as fruit skewers and lettuce-wrapped spring rolls, use an MP3 player loaded with what Princess calls “relaxation music” or get an alfresco massage in one of the private cabanas. The Sanctuary also can also be found onboard the Caribbean Princess, Dawn Princess, Emerald Princess, Golden Princess, Grand Princess, Island Princess, Ruby Princess, Sea Princess, Star Princess. “The Sanctuary has come to personify Princess’ essential philosophy of escape coupled with personal service,” said Jan Swartz, Princess executive vice president. “Passengers have told us they love this opportunity to completely relax in such a peaceful and pampering environment, so we’re delighted to introduce this special Princess feature on all our vessels.”

Carnival Cruise Lines took notice of the success of Princess’ program and launched its own Serenity adults-only area on its newest ships and re-vamped older Fantasy-class vessels. Unlike Princess, Carnival does not charge for use of the area. Located in a secluded aft area of the ship the area features a bar, plush chaise lounges and chairs, oversize umbrellas, and two whirlpools. “Our Serenity areas have been an unqualified success since they were first introduced aboard the Carnival Inspiration in 2007. Although the Serenity retreats were originally intended as part of the renovations for our eight Fantasy class ships, they’ve proven so popular that we’ve added them to our newer ships,” said Carnival spokesperson Vance Gulliksen.

Bigger adult space on the horizon

It’s no surprise the biggest ships launching in the coming months will have the largest adult-only areas at sea.

When the 220,000-ton, 5,400-passenger Oasis of the Seas launches in November it will not only be the largest cruise ship, by far, in the world it will offer the most unique adults-only playground afloat. Adults looking for a retreat will find solace in the Oasis’ Solarium. Boasting a redefined layout, passengers will have the sensation of floating on air from the two-deck high, glass-paneled enclave designed with seating on various “islands” surrounded by water. The adults-only, open-air Solarium will offer a swimming pool, two whirlpools, and four cantilevered whirlpools suspended 136 feet above the ocean. The mezzanine level of the adult-dedicated area will overlook the pool deck below, offering additional chaise lounges and seating.

Launching in September, the 133,000-ton, 3,646-passenger Carnival Dream will be the largest “Fun Ship” in the fleet and will offer an amazing 11,250-square-foot Serenity area that will encompass two levels – a first for the line. The area will accommodate up to 200 guests who can select from seven different styles of seating, from plush chaise lounges and chairs to shaded sun loungers and even hammocks. Carnival Dream’s Serenity area will also feature a full bar on the lower level in a shaded area, while the upper level will offer two whirlpools providing magnificent sea views.

In late May of 2010, Norwegian Cruise Line will launch its biggest “Freestyle Cruising” vessel the 153,000-ton, 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic. Adults onboard are sure to like the party atmosphere at the POSH Beach Club, a first of its kind beach club at sea that offers an exclusive, adults-only setting at the top of the ship.

Its clear guests really appreciate adults-only retreats, which offer a tranquil and peaceful environment for relaxing with a book or just enjoying the magnificent sea view. You can bet more lines will initiate and only increase the concept as it’s a great way to enhance a cruise vacation.

The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that Oprah Winfrey is the world’s greatest boss. Why? Well, good old Oprah has decided to go “Freestyle Cruising” by chartering a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) vessel for her entire staff and their families. Cool!

The all-expenses-paid Mediterranean cruise onboard the Norwegian Gem began Saturday in Barcelona. The 10-day ‘O-Gem cruise’ will stop in Spain, Italy, Turkey, Greece and Malta. According to a Chicago travel agency quoted in the Sun-Times the trip is valued around $5400 per person — ExpertCruiser thinks that’s a bit on the low side. This is the second time in four years that Oprah has gifted her staff with a cruise. The last time everyone cruised on luxury line Seabourn.

Have you been pinching pennies, hoping to save up for a great vacation? Want to take a trip that feels decadent but in reality is a very savvy deal? Get ready to say, “Aye, aye, captain,” because cruise lines are offering a buffet of amazing deals that are hard to pass up.

Last minute savings
It’s clear that consumers are shopping, but they’re also changing booking behavior as they try to stretch their dollars further. Yesterday, during Carnival Corporation’s second quarter earnings call, the company cited that consumers are booking closer meaning they are waiting last minute to book. “Consumers have come to recognize the extraordinary value proposition our cruise vacations represent,” said Micky Arison, Carnival Corporation’s chairman and CEO.

Indeed, many are holding off an actual cruise purchase hoping that fares will go even lower. Will they? Perhaps. But there’s also a risk on losing out of a good deal by waiting too long.

“If vacationers haven’t made their summer plans, it’s hard to believe that there’s still incredible deals to all of the summer hot spots, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexican Riviera and even Europe,” says Stewart Chiron, a cruise industry expert who is nationally recognized as The Cruise Guy.

Chiron has uncovered some incredible deals that are hard to pass up. A few even include airfare, hotel, and onboard upgrades. It’s important to note that the following fares are starting prices, which means they are for inside cabins. You will almost certainly pay more for an outside cabin.

Alaska on the cheap
Chiron says Alaska cruise prices have started to go up, but not before offering the lowest prices, probably ever. Higher than normal airfares to Seattle and Vancouver and the controversial $50 Alaska head tax are probable reasons that made sailing to America’s Last Frontier less attractive during these tough economic times.

Still, if you’ve ever desired to visit Alaska, summer 2009 is your best opportunity. “Cruise and extended tour prices have never been lower, especially as the peak Alaska sailing season approaches,” says Chiron. He notes that the best values are on the Inside Passage sailings from Seattle or the one way cruises from Vancouver or Anchorage, as you can plan extended vacations to include Kenai, Talkeetna, Denali and Fairbanks at significantly reduced prices. One thing to keep in mind is that on roundtrip sailings from Seattle, U.S. citizens can still travel with only a birth certificate along with valid government issues photo identification.

Celebrity Cruises Infinity. This deal is one for the ages. The seven-night Inside Passage Alaska roundtrip from Seattle includes stops in Ketchikan, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau and Victoria. Prices, which were $2,899 per person, have been slashed to $899 per person. What makes this deal so amazing is that it includes round-trip air travel from select U.S. gateways! It’s one of the best deals ever seen for an Alaska cruise package on a premium cruise line. Get it while you can!

Caribbean & Mexico deals

Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas. Thank goodness the biggest cruise ship in the world doesn’t have the biggest fares. Check out the popular seven-night Western Caribbean itinerary round-trip from Miami, which includes stops in St Maarten, San Juan and Labadee (private beach) OR Labadee, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman and Cozumel. Fares used to start at $1,749 per person; now they start at $899.

Carnival Cruise Lines Carnival Liberty and Carnival Valor. Both ships offer alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami. Ports of call include Half Moon Cay (private island), St John/ St Thomas, San Juan and Turks and Caicos OR Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios. Fares that used to start at $1,769 per person are now priced at $599.

Carnival’s “new” Carnival Splendor.Carnival’s newest ship is based in Los Angeles and offers the biggest spa of any cruise ship based in the U.S. The seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary includes stops in Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas. Fares used to start at $1,769 per person; now they start at $599.

Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas. Another great West Coast cruise option, this seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary includes stops in, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta. Fares used to start at $1,799 per person; now they start at $499.

Europe deals
European cruise prices have rebounded over the past few weeks and been raised across the board on most cruise ships. Chiron says consumers should look toward the fall months for the best deals.

Norwegian Cruise Lines Norwegian Jewel. Norwegian’s “Freestyle Cruising” goes the Baltics. The line is offering 12-night roundtrip sailings from London (Dover) to Copenhagen, Warnemunde (Berlin), St Petersburg (overnight), Helsinki and Stockholm. Prices that formerly started at $3,799 per person for the cruise only now from $2,499 and includes air from select U.S. gateways!

Celebrity Cruises “brand new” Celebrity Equinox. The much anticipated follow-up to the most beautiful ship afloat, Celebrity Solstice, sister ship Celebrity Equinox is bound to be just as fabulous. The ship debuts July 31 and is offering an amazing 13-night Mediterranean itinerary from Civitavecchia (Rome) in August and September with stops in Santorini, Athens, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Alexandria (Giza, pyramids), Ashdod (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv), Haifa and Naples (Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri). Cruise-only fares were priced from $5,599 per person; now they are priced from $2,999 per person, which now includes air from select U.S. gateways, two nights hotel in Rome, and Concierge Class accommodations.

The message is clear: Don’t miss the boat with these great deals!