Teresa Ooi 
Australia’s love affair with ocean cruising continued last year – albeit at a slower pace, with 1.35 million taking a holiday on the high seas. The number represented an increase of just 0.9 per cent over the previous year, with Sydney’s continuing capacity problems blamed by industry leaders who pointed to much bigger growth figures … Read more
Carnival Australia wrapped up another record-breaking summer cruise season this weekend – after pumping over half a billion dollars into the economy with 698 port calls. The season kicked off with the arrival of Princess Cruises’ Majestic Princess on September 15 – the largest Princess ship to sail in Australia. Cunard, another of Carnival’s cruise … Read more
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well,” says Virginia Woolf, the famous English writer. Now luxury line Silversea has taken this mantra to the next level with its new revolutionary culinary offering called SALT – Sea and Land Taste. To be launched on the line’s new ship, the … Read more
“God help you, if you arrive in a cream Paul Smith jacket when the invitation dictated a tux,” whispered one passenger who habitually cruises Cunard, his face suffused in horror. The legendary British line has one of the most elaborate dress codes anywhere – and you are more than expected to dress by the rule … Read more
Leading small ship cruise line, Windstar Cruises has unveiled a US$250 million revolutionary initiative which will stretch and re-engine its three existing vessels. Under the major refurbishment, each Windstar ship – the Star Breeze, Star Legend and Star Pride – will be cut in half and a new section inserted which will lengthen each vessel … Read more
Crystal Symphony is fresh from a renovation, and is the pinnacle of high-class cruising, writes Teresa Ooi. Alas, there is no David. Instead there is Raja, a bright-eyed butler from Madras. Resplendent in his evening attire, Raja immediately makes me feel welcome as he shows me to Seabreeze Penthouse 9099, which is to be my … Read more
According to legend, the tiny Croatian island of Korcula was founded by the Trojan hero Antenor, a councillor to King Priam of Troy who ruled during the events of the Trojan War. This picturesque island, which was once completely overrun with thick, rugged pine forests, has been inhabited by waves of different settlements – from … Read more
As more Australians are jumping aboard luxury ships, Teresa Ooi takes a look at what money CAN buy. They are bigger, smarter and ever more indulgent. Lines are vying for the luxury dollar with suites that are more extravagant than ever before. So if you have some spare cash and want to book the best … Read more
Cruise lines have joined the boycott of Brunei after the tiny, oil-rich country introduced harsh laws against gay couples and adultery, making their relationships punishable by stoning to death. Princess Cruises led the way, calling off two port visits. “Princess Cruises is aware of the news stories circulating about the country of Brunei and the … Read more
She's the most specious ship yet from luxury line Oceania Cruises. James Sitters tells Rose Kelly and Peter Lynch what's on board the new class of ship, including restaurants, spas and suites.
