QM2 vs Explorer of the Seas for 4th of July

What would you say if I told you that you could sail on Cunard's Queen Mary 2 for a 5 night New England and Canada cruise that highlights fireworks in Boston Harbor for 4th of July in 2009 for less (in most categories) than sailing on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas to Bermuda on 4th of July?

Would you be interested? What if I told you the cruise on Queen Mary 2 ALSO included on-board credit? Don't believe me? Take a look below:

	Queen Mary 2 - July 1, 2009 - 5 Nights	Explorer of the Seas - July 4 2009 - 5 Nights
Inside Cabin	$1210.00 per person (Category D5)	$1145.13 per person (Category Q)
Outside Cabin	N/A	$1445.13 per person (Category I)
Balcony Cabin	$1445.00 per person (Category B5, B3 or B2)	$1645.13 per person (Category E2)
Deluxe Balcony Cabin	$1822.00 per person (Category A2 or A1)	$1665.13 per person (Category D3)
Junior Suite	$2720.00per person (Category P1 or P2)	N/A
Suite	$3490.00 per person (Category Q6 or Q5)	$2645.13 per person (Category GS)

Now, this is based on information and pricing directly from the Royal Caribbean site and latest pricing for QM2 being offered by Cruise Freek Forums and Ambiance Travel for this sailing. And, yes, all pricing includes port charges, taxes and fuel surchages.

So arguments that QM2 is too expensive is no longer valid! Let's take a look at what Cruise Freek Forums is offering for this wonderful sailing:

Queen Mary 2 - 4th of July Cruise

http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/Queen-Mary-2-4th-of-July-2009-h45.htm

Departing: July 1, 2009

Returning: July 6, 2009

	July 2009
	1	Wed	New York, New York	Depart 6:00 pm
New York, New York Hide Details New York, New York, also known as “The Big Apple,” is an incredibly diverse and active place. Consisting of an intricate patchwork of neighbourhoods, each with its own character and history, yet one neighbourhood blends into the next; Lower Manhattan with the New York Stock Exchange, Battery Park and South Street Seaport; Chinatown; trendy SoHo and Greenwich Village; Little Italy; The Lower East Side, one of the most densely populated places on earth; Chelsea; The Flat Iron District and Gramercy Park; Midtown West and the Garment District; Midtown East and Murray Hill; The Upper West Side and Morningside Heights; Central Park and its 843 acres (341.1 hectares) of paths, ponds, lakes and green space; the Upper East Side; and Harlem. In New York, there are always things to see and explore: From world-class museums to breathtaking skyscrapers, from vibrant neighbourhoods to parks and gardens. As they say, it is the “city that never sleeps.”
	2	Thu	Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
Cruising the Atlantic Ocean Hide Details
	3	Fri	Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada	8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada Hide Details The capital of Nova Scotia and the largest city in Canada’s Atlantic Provinces, Halifax was once Great Britain’s major military bastion in North America. The beautifully restored waterfront buildings of Halifax’s Historic Properties recall the city’s centuries-old maritime heritage. Stroll the waterfront, and you may find Nova Scotia’s floating ambassador, the schooner Bluenose II, tied up to Privateer’s Wharf, just as old sailing ships have done for over 200 years. Halifax is also the gateway to Nova Scotia’s stunning scenery, including famous Peggy’s Cove, where surf-pounded granite cliffs and a solitary lighthouse create an unsurpassed scene of rugged natural beauty. Drawn by the superb harbour, the second largest in the world, the British established Halifax as a naval base in the mid-18th century. The city’s strategic position on the Atlantic proved even more valuable as a base for fishing the rich banks of the North Atlantic.
	4	Sat	Boston, Massachusetts	12:30 pm - Midnight
Boston, Massachusetts Hide Details Hailed as the “Cradle of American Independence,” Boston is filled with historic sights - it was America’s first great city. In the 19th century, Boston was rightly described as the “Athens of America.” Today this city of 600,000 retains its vitality, combining historic districts with revitalized urban centres while remaining faithful to its venerable roots. It is a city every American should visit at least once. Follow the Freedom Trail along three of the most historic miles (4.8km) in the country. See the site of the Boston Tea Party, trace the route of Paul Revere’s famous ride, and stand on the bridge where Minutemen fired the shots heard “‘round the world.” In the old Charleston Navy Yard you can see the USS Constitution, the nation’s oldest commissioned warship. The capital of Massachusetts, Boston, is a city of extraordinary beauty, boasting historic buildings, narrow cobbled streets, numerous parks, and a distinctive skyline.
	5	Sun	Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
Cruising the Atlantic Ocean Hide Details
	6	Mon	New York, New York	Disembark

PRICING:

Prices are PER PERSON

Category D5		Inside	$1210.00	$25 On-board Credit
Category B5		In-Hull Balcony	$1445.00	$50 On-board Credit
Category A2		Deluxe Balcony	$1822.00	$50 On-board Credit
Category A1		Deluxe Balcony	$1822.00	$50 On-board Credit
Category AA		Britannia Club Balcony	CALL	CALL
Category P1		Mini-Suite Balcony	$2720.00	$75 On-board Credit
Category Q6		Suite with Balcony	$3490.00	$75 On-board Credit
Category Q5		Suite with Balcony	$3490.00	$75 On-board Credit

Space is very limited. Please reserve early to avoid disappointment. Additional categories may be available, please call for prices and availability.

ALL PRICES ARE PER PERSON, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY AND INCLUDE ALL PORT CHARGES, TAXES, GOVERNMENT FEES AND FUEL SURCHARGE AS ADVISED. AIRFARE, SHORE EXCURSIONS, INSURANCE AND OPTIONAL PRE/POST CRUISE HOTEL PACKAGES ARE AVAILABLE AT ADDITIONAL COST.

DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT INFORMATION BOOK EARLY AND SAVE!!

25% of Cruise Fare

FINAL PAYMENT DUE BY April 1, 2009

Exclusive Amenities include

• Invitation to private cocktail party
• Pre-cruise information packet
• Invitations to private group onboard functions and exclusive, handcrafted shore excursion experiences

As the group grows there is the chance that extra OBC will also be awarded so tell your friends!

PRE-CRUISE PACKAGE You also have access to our exclusive pre-cruise NYC City package starting at just $289.00pp/dbl

• Includes 1 night at the Hyatt Grand Central
• Transportation to Dinner at Rosie O'Grady's*
• Transportation to Spamalot*
• Transportation back to hotel.
• Transfer and luggage assistance including all taxes and gratuities to Queen Mary 2 the next morning.

* Represents additional charges for these activities

Additional nights available! Ask us!

About Ambiance Travel:

We realize that sometimes doing business on the Internet can be risky and that's why Cruise Freek Forums is proud to have Nina Van Harn, owner of Ambiance Travel, as our official travel agent for of our 4th of July cruise aboard Queen Mary 2. Ambiance Travel is a Virtuoso affiliate agency.

What is a Virtuoso agency? Virtuoso is an exclusive network of travel agencies who serve the most affluent, well-traveled individuals worldwide. Out of over 30,000 travel agencies in the USA, just 300 are Virtuoso agencies and membership is by invitation only! Virtuoso travel specialists have an average of 20 years of experience in the travel industry and are certified with the Institute of Certified Travel Agents.

Additionally, Ambiance Travel is a Cunard Commodore Agency. This means that Nina Van Harn has completed an extensive training program offered exclusively through Cunard Cruise Lines. The Cunard Academy focuses on White Star Services and the Cunard fleet.

Lastly, you can rest assured service from Ambiance Travel does not end when you book your cruise. From start to finish Ambiance Travel is there to assist your needs and, Nina Van Harn will be on-board the 4th of July sailing of Queen Mary 2 and, she will be in New York City for all the pre-cruise activities escorting those who choose to participate in the fun.

Pre-Cruise Hotel and Activities Information:

While Cruise Freek Forums group cruises NEVER forces socialization, we do offer fun and interesting packages for those who are interested. For those who wish to take advantage of the Pre-Cruise package in New York City, here's what you can anticipate.

Accommodations at The Hyatt at Grand Central.

Place yourself in the heart of "The City That Never Sleeps" at Grand Hyatt New York. With luxurious accommodations, discover outstanding dining and catering services, sumptuous guestrooms and newly renovated function areas ideal for any guest. A 24-hour business center and Stay Fit gym ensure you won’t miss a moment of excitement in this non-stop city when you choose our Midtown New York hotel.

Rates begin at just $289 per person, based on double occupancy.

Read a review of board host Nina and board owner Tina's hotel inspection of this hotel: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/cunard-f26/lunch-with-nina-and-the-hyatt-grand-central-t1372.htm

For those arriving two days or more in advance we have the following daytime activities planned for Tuesday, June 30, 2009:

• Baseball game at the new Yankee Stadium - ** Pending 2009 Schedule** - If the Yankees are out of town, a Mets game or another sightseeing option will be made available
  
• Shopping in Manhattan

Dinner at Rosie O'Grady's and Evening Performance of Spamalot.

Rosie O'Grady's is a wonderful steak and seafood house in the tradition of the great New York saloons. A Broadway Theater District fixture, Rosie O'Grady's is centrally located near Times Square, Rockefeller Center, the Jacob Javits Convention Center, and a short distance from several major museums. The handsome old bar is full of character and attracts regulars and tourists alike, serving superb continental and American fare.

After dinner at Bobby Van's it's off to the Shubert Theater for an evening of laughs with the Broadway hit Spamlot - a musical lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

On-Board Activities:

As already mentioned, Cruise Freek groups never force socializations, however, if you are so inclined, many of our group members are already in the planning stages of on-board activities including:

• Dinner or Lunch at Todd English
• Cocktail Party
• Pub or Cabin Crawl

You are invited to join Cruise Freek Forums and contribute your ideas for our on-board activities!

Ready to Book?:

Contact:

Nina Van Harn

Ambiance Travel

http://ambiancetc.com/default.aspx

ph: 616-405-6950
fax: 866-762-2907
email: Nina@ambiancetc.com
A Virtuoso Affiliated Agency

Cunard Live Chat Reminder for July 26

Cunard Live Chat

Saturday, July 26, 2008 at 8pm

Cruise Freek Forums http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/index.htm

(You need to be both registered and logged in for chat to be visible)

Topics to be covered:

• General introduction about Cruise Freek Forum's Independence Day and Christmas/New Year's Holiday sailings aboard Cunard Queen Mary 2 in 2009
• Questions and Answer periods about the ship, itinerary and anything related to the sailing our travel agent, Nina Van Harn of Ambiance Travel, can answer for us
• Pre-cruise options for both sailings
• Have live interaction with your fellow shipmates
• Receive booking bonuses - book within 48 hours of our live chats and receive special bonuses**
• Nina will reveal a very special, important clue for those playing along in the Due Date Contest +
• Our chats generally run from 30 to 60 minutes depending the number of people attending and the number of questions asked

**Booking Bonuses - Applies only to those who book AND deposit within 48 hours of the chat. Bonuses will be awarded once final payment is made. And, remember all booking bonuses are in ADDITION to Sale Week (July 26 - August 2) on-board credit bonuses and on top of our group amenities package.

For the 15 Night Holiday Sailing Booking Bonuses

Queen Grill

• 2 Bottles of Champagne
• $100 on-board credit per cabin (on top of the extra credit during sale week)
• $150 spa credit per cabin
  

Princess Grill

• 2 Bottles of Champagne
• $75 on-board credit per cabin (on top of the extra credit during sale week)
• $100 spa credit per cabin
  

All Other Categories

• 2 Bottles of Champagne
• $50 on-board credit per cabin (on top of the extra credit during sale week)
• $75 spa credit per cabin

PLUS FOR ALL CATEGORIES:

• CUNARD TEDDY BEARS FOR ALL CHILDREN
• 2 CUNARD COFFEE MUGS
• 1 Box of Cunard's Drei Meister Chocolate per cabin
• 1 Tote bag per cabin
  

For the 5 Night Independence Day Sailing

Queen Grill

• 1 Bottle of Champagne
• $50 on-board credit per cabin (on top of the extra credit during sale week)
• $75 spa credit per cabin
  

Princess Grill

• 1 Bottle of Champagne
• $25 on-board credit (on top of the extra credit during sale week)
• $50 spa credit per cabin
  

All Other Categories

• 1 Bottle of Champagne
• $25 on-board credit (on top of the extra credit during sale week)
• $50 spa credit per cabin
  

PLUS FOR ALL CATEGORIES:

• CUNARD TEDDY BEARS FOR ALL CHILDREN
• 2 CUNARD COFFEE MUGS
• 1 Box of Cunard's Drei Meister Chocolate per cabin
• 1 Tote Bag per cabin
  

+ DUE DATE CONTEST

Rules can be found by clicking the following link: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/due-date-contest-f129/rules-of-the-contest-t1104.htm

Clues can be found here: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/due-date-contest-f129/

Cunard Live Chat Event July 26 2008

Cruise Event - Live Chat with Booking Bonuses

LIVE CHAT EVENT WITH HOST NINA

Saturday, July 26, 2008 at 8 PM

Join us to find out how to win a cruise on Cunard Cruise Lines!

Join Host Nina on Saturday, July 26th at 8PM Eastern for a live chat to discuss our Cunard groups in 2009. During this very special event we will be offering booking incentives including:

• Additional on-board credit - this is in addition to the onboard credit we're already offering
• Reduced Deposits on Select Sailings
  
• Champagne for all cabins
  
• Other "added values" for Cruise Freek Members!
  

Additionally, for those playing along for the Due Date Contest, receive a very important clue during the chat! We'll be talking about the pre-cruise and on-board activities, the advantages of booking during the upcoming sale week - which happens to begin on July 26, and, meet some of your future ship mates too! If time allows, we will also be discussing the plans for the Double Transit and the Inaugural of the NEW Queen Elizabeth in 2010! For those unable to make our online discussion on Saturday, we will be offering a similar chat on Monday, July 28th. It is really to your advantage to come join us!

Remember you need to be both REGISTERED AND SIGNED IN to participate in our live chats!

OTHER UPCOMING CHAT EVENTS INCLUDE:

OUR CHAT EVENTS WILL ALL FEATURE BOOKING INCENTIVES SO PLEASE JOIN US!

1. MARINER OF THE SEAS - MEXICO - Sailing October 11, 2009
   
2. CELEBRITY SOLSTICE - EUROPE - Sailing May 25, 2009
   
3. CELEBRITY SOLSTICE - CARIBBEAN - Sailing February 14, 2010
   
4. CELEBRITY EQUINOX - INAUGURAL EUROPE - Sailing August 8, 2009
   
5. CELEBRITY MILLENNIUM - HAWAII TO VANCOUVER REPOSITIONING CRUISE - Sailing April 9, 2010
6. OASIS OF THE SEAS - INAUGURAL - Sailing December 12, 2009

SO REMEMBER TO BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE! http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/index.htm

Cruise Freek Forums Group Cruise Opportunities:

• Group Cruise Opportunities

1. Grand Princess - Caribbean Holiday Cruise- December 19, 2008
2. Celebrity Solstice in Europe - May 25, 2009
3. Explorer of the Seas - Bermuda - June 20, 2009
4. Queen Mary 2 - New England/Canada - July 1, 2009
5. Radiance of the Seas - Alaska - July 17, 2009
6. Celebrity Equinox Inaugural - Europe - August 8, 2009
7. Mariner of the Seas - Mexico - October 11, 2009
   
8. Project Genesis Inaugural Sailing - Fall, 2009
9. Queen Mary 2 - Caribbean Holiday Cruise - December 20, 2009

Coming in 2010:

Celebrity Solstice - Caribbean President's Week - February 14, 2010

Disney for Easter - 3 Night Cruise/4 Night Park Combination for Easter week 2010

4th of July week - Princess Cruise Lines from NYC

Holiday Cruise - Royal Caribbean from NJ

Spring/Summer - Cunard European Cruise

Fall - Cunard Inaugural of the NEW Queen Elizabeth

Cruise Freeks is proud to offer BOTH PEAK AND OFF PEAK WEEK GROUP CRUISES!

Xmas 2010 by Cruise Freek Member Vinnie

Written by Cruise Freek Forums Member Cruise Virgin Vinnie

Group is gay friendly however, it is not a gay charter

Now that things are settling down with Oasis of the Seas and, we now know the inaugural date and people are beginning to make their respective plans for this amazing ship, I'd like to turn your attention even further into the future. Let's talk about the holidays - meaning Christmas and New Years in 2010 - and why now is the time to sign up for our opt-in list to be kept informed about the group cruise being planned on Cruise Freek Forums.

Let's face facts, the holidays aren't like they were 20 or 30 years ago. The family unit has changed drastically - divorces and separations, relocation away from family for work purposes, demanding jobs forcing nearly everyone to work 5o to 60 hour weeks. Times have changed and, therefore, the way we spend holidays have changed. On top of all the stress of every day living, it boggles my mind to even think to attempt trying to plan a fun holiday at home for the family. And, that's why I want to make you aware of why cruising is becoming more and more popular during the holidays. So popular that Christmas and New Year's have become two of the most popular weeks of the year to cruise!

Advantages of cruising during the holidays:

1) The entire family can meet in one place, have plenty of time together, have room for everyone to sleep in a bed, no one has to worry about cooking, cleaning or entertaining.
2) Just about all schools are closed for the time between Christmas and New Years, so, little to no time lost in school for vacation purposes.
3) A refreshing change of scenery. For most of the USA and Canada, December and early January are just the start of snow season, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the white stuff afterward. Besides, do you think you and your family would enjoy one last blast of summery, tropical weather before facing the long, hard winter ahead.
4) Someone else is worried about the shopping, prep work, cooking and serving of menus. It's no longer your problem who eats this, who can't have that - the ships offer a wide variety of food - day and night - every minute you are on the ship! Think about what you can do with all that free time!
5) You aren't going to miss the festivities of the holidays. The ships are decorated from bow to stern. Christmas trees, garland, and all the trimmings make the ships look exceptional. And, if you celebrate Hanukkah, not to worry, it's celebrated on board too!
6) Religious services are conducted right on board the ship. Each year the cruise lines offer special holiday services aboard the ship including Roman Catholic mass, Non-denominational services and, a rabbi is aboard for Hanukkah.
7) After factoring the cost of presents, decorating, food, entertaining and things that simply don't carry a price tag - like your own personal sanity, cruising offers a fairly comparable cost. Yes, cruise ARE higher during Christmas and New Year's week but, isn't everything mentioned above worth something to you? Or do you enjoy running yourself ragged and ending up with a cold or flu every Christmas because of the stress you're under?
8) Nope, the kids aren't forgot. Santa Clause amazingly has time to find all the cruise ships and makes special efforts to appear in person for the children on board. Often with small token gifts for each of them. Clever parents can make the effort to bring presents to surprise their children Christmas morning.

Why start planning for 2010 in 2008 - it's two years away!

1) If this is something of interest to you, it's as simple as placing your email address on our opt-in list. You'll receive updates regarding this sailing and that will include everything from travel agent assignment to pricing and itinerary when it becomes available in April, 2009 to receiving invitations to exclusive events. So no need to wait, it takes less than 30 seconds to place your email on our opt-in list. Do it now! http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/Cruise-Freek-Forums-Present-Holiday-Cruise-2010-h63.htm
2) By beginning to plan NOW, you have two years to speak to family members and get everyone organized. It also gives you roughly nine months to before you even need to place a deposit which for the sailing I am promoting will be $450 per person - so family of four would place a deposit of $1800. That's just $200 per month you need to set aside. And, that full $1800 deposit is put towards your total cost of your cruise! And then you'll have another entire year or longer to pay off the balance!
3) It gives you time to discuss the plans with the extended family and invite them to join you. Chances are they're going to have to fly to you or you to them anyhow, so, why not put that airline, if you even need it, to good use and put that money towards a family reunion cruise during the holidays! Wouldn't it be nice to be able to see Uncle Fred but, not responsible for entertaining him 24/7?
4) By booking with Cruise Freek Forums, you're going to receive special perks that you simply won't receive booking on your own. By booking with Cruise Freek Forums, you'll have group amenities without the group! In other words, you are never forced or pressured to join any of the activities planned. They will certainly be offered but, you will never be forced or pressured to join - never. Cruise Freek Forums policy is that it's your time, it's your vacation! And, Cruise Freek Forums must be doing something right with over 360 emails on the Oasis of the Seas opt-in list that says a lot about our group programs!
5) One of the perks of booking with Cruise Freek Forums is the amazing pre-cruise packages put together. Many other group leave you on your own to get to the port of embarkation and to the ship. Cruise Freek Forums is a little different. Cruise Freek Forums will be offering both one and two nights pre-cruise stays in Manhattan prior to the Holiday sailing in 2010 from Bayonne, NJ on Royal Caribbean. Right now, on the Cruise Freek Message board - which by the way is free and open to everyone - we're discussing our pre-cruise activities. We're tentatively going to go Radio City for the Christmas Spectacular or perhaps to a Broadway show or both! We're also going to have dinner in a New York City restaurant prior to the show or shows, and, we'll be taking a bus tour of the city. The package will include transfers to Bayonne, NJ to begin the holiday cruise. Come on over and join the discussion: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/royal-caribbean-f12/christmas-on-eos-t1031.htm

We have photos of the ship and NYC during holidays and lots of chatting back and forth about what we'd like to see and do. Come on and join us! http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/royal-caribbean-f12/christmas-on-eos-t1031.htm

So does Cruise Freek Forums have our act together or what? The first steps are easy:

1) Place your email on our opt-in list: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/Cruise-Freek-Forums-Present-Holiday-Cruise-2010-h63.htm
2) If you wish, join Cruise Freeks and give us your ideas and opinions on things to do for the holiday cruise from Bayonne in 2010: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/royal-caribbean-f12/christmas-on-eos-t1031.htm
3) Book and deposit your cruise in April, 2009
4) Come cruising with us in December, 2010
5) Have the memories for the rest of your life!

Join us today!

Where will you be for 4th of July in 2010? How about a cruise?

An interview with Jeanie Beck, owner of Becks Tours and Travel and Cruise Freek Forum's official travel agent for the 2010 - 4th of July week sailing aboard Caribbean Princess.

This sailing is Gay Friendly but NOT a Gay Charter

1.) What can you tell me about Caribbean Princess? (Anything that makes it stand out from other ships?)

The Caribbean Princess holds more passengers than any other ship in the Princess Fleet. It can carry 3100 passengers. The Caribbean Princess also has 900 balcony staterooms and an entire deck of mini-suites. It truly caters to everyone.

In January 2009 the ship will enter dry dock for some incredible renovations. It will include the transformation of the Deck 5 atrium into the inviting piazza-style street café currently found on the Crown & Emerald Princess. The ship will also add Princess’ signature adults-only Sanctuary and Crown Grill Restaurant. Another big renovation will be seven new suites with ocean view picture windows, and the casino will be relocated one deck higher to deck 7.

2.) Tell me about the 4th of July sailing on Caribbean Princess.

• What type of pre-cruise package are you offer?
  

We are offering a special two night pre-cruise package in Manhattan. It will include one or two nights in a Manhattan hotel, Broadway show tickets, Sightseeing on Gray Line of New York, Admission to either the Empire State Building Observatory or the Rockefeller Center Tour, dinner at Heartland, Transportation to dinner and the Broadway show and transfers to the Port. I’m also working to get dinner in Little Italy, then a nighttime tour of the city.

• Is it fully escorted? It is escorted, but there will be time for everyone to go off and explore on their own if they wish!
  

• Do you have pricing yet? We do have some preliminary prices, but since it is still two years away, I cannot give firm prices yet. Here are some preliminary prices. They are subject to change.
  

Hotel Name	Single Occupancy]RATES ARE PER PERSON 1 per room	Double Occupancy RATES ARE PER PERSON 2 per room	Triple Occupancy RATES ARE PER PERSON 3 per room	Quad Occupancy RATES ARE PER PERSON 4 per room
Novotel	$1,258.00	$871.00	$761.00	$706.00
Holiday Inn Midtown	$1,172.00	$828.00	$733.00	$685.00
Sheraton NY	$1,172.00	$828.00	$733.00	$685.00

3.) Tell me about on-board activities being planned (For example, scavenger hunts, group dinner together, meet and greet, etc). We are planning a Meet & Greet and a group dinner together. I’m sure there will be more to come since we are still in the early planning stages.

4.) Some people are very intimidated by New York City, why is the pre-cruise package the perfect solution for those who might be a bit uptight about visiting The Big Apple?
New York City is an incredible city!! But indeed it can be very intimidating. With our pre-cruise package, the hotel, transportation and tours are taken care of. We take care of all of the worries.

5.) Are people who book with you and Cruise Freek Forums obligated or in any way pressured to participate in activities?
Not at all! If someone does not want to take part in any of the activities, they do not have to feel any pressure at all. Everyone is free to make their own choice.

6.) With the continuing rise of gasoline prices and the new airline baggage
surcharges, in your opinion, do you believe a cruise with the New York City package is a good value?
Absolutely! I am locking in rates now so that by 2010 our prices will be much lower and more affordable. Also, since we are traveling as a group, the prices will be much better and everyone will end up saving money in return.

7.) When will rates for this sailing be available? And what are the deposit requires for the cruise portion?
Rates are currently available for the cruise. However, I cannot publish them until next Spring. If anyone wants to know the categories and prices available they can email me at jeanie@becktours.com.

When the sailing opens for bookings next year I will hold a One Week Cruise Sale, so each person only has to put down a $100 deposit. After that the deposit should be around 20% of the cruise fare.

8.)Let's talk about families for a moment. 4th of July week is one of the most popular vacation weeks of the year. Is cruising family friendly and why would a family benefit from booking this particular cruise?
This is the perfect family vacation! In fact, I am bringing along my three children. Princess has one of the best Children’s Programs at sea. There are so many activities for kids onboard the Caribbean Princess. There are different Fun Zone activities for kids ages 3-12 and a Teen Center for teenage passengers. Plus, the ship offers babysitting during Port Days and evening hours! Parents can enjoy some alone time if they choose.

9.) Tell me what you're planning with Cruise Freeks to help make this cruise special? In otherwords, what type of incentives to book will you be offering?

We are working to offer an amazing incentive to book with us. However, I cannot give away the secret just yet! Don’t worry; it will be well worth the wait!

10.) Is there anything you'd like to add that I have covered? Just stay tuned for more exciting news as we get closer to sailing!

For more information regarding Cruise Freek Forum's 4th of July week cruise aboard Caribbean Princess please visit: http://www.caribbeanprincessjune282010.makeswebsites.com/ or join Cruise Freek Forums to add your voice to the discussions and plans for this cruise at: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/index.htm

Gay Friendly Europe in 2009 and South America 2010

Note: Groups are gay friendly but not gay charters. All are welcome!

Today I am going to be blogging about two extraordinary cruise opportunities waiting just for you! These cruises are being offered in association with Cruise Freek Forums. Now, I realize some people are going to read that and get nervous thinking they're getting trapped into a "groupie" group situation. However, that isn't the case with Cruise Freek Forums groups on any cruise they offer!

Cruise Freek Forums is different. Your reservation is handled as individual even within groups. You select your cabin, dining times, shore excursions, etc just like you would with an individual reservation. Socializations such as Meet and Greets are offered to the group but you are NEVER forced to attend and you are never pressured to be an active part of the group. Cruise Freek Forum groups are formed first and foremost for amenities and pricing, not socialization.

Let's get to the cruises! If you've ever wanted to visit Europe, cruising is one the best ways to visit multiple countries and locations with the least amount of hassle. On May 25, 2009, Cruise Freek Forum's is heading to Europe for an 11 night Mediterranean cruise aboard the new Celebrity Solstice. The cruise will depart from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy and the first port of call is Santorini, Greece followed by Mykonos, Greece. From Greece the cruise heads to Istanbul, Turkey featuring two days in port to give enough time to explore this fascinating city. After Istanbul, you'll be heading to Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey which is home to some of the best Roman ruins in the world. Then it is on to Rhodes, Greece followed by Athens, Greece and, that brings you to your last port of call, Naples, Italy.

For more information about this exciting cruise, visit the following website:
http://celebritysolsticemay252009.makeswebsites.com

The website is under construction but it features pictures (artist conception) of Celebrity Solstice, photos of ports of call, and all the information you'll need to book this cruise opportunity.

Now for those looking for fun and excitement, how about a South American cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas highlighted with 3 nights in Rio de Janeiro during Carnival in February, 2010! This amazing trip departs on February 10, 2010 from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Ports of call include: Rio de Janeiro and Ilhabela in Brazil, Montevideo in Uruguay and returns to Argentina.

For more information about this exciting cruise, visit the following website:
http://www.radiancetorio2010.makeswebsites.com/

The assigned travel agent for both sailings is Bob DeAgazio of Balboa Travel. Founded in San Diego in 1969, Balboa Travel ranks in the top 1 percent of all travel agencies nationwide. Balboa Travel is a Virtuoso agency.

What is a Virtuoso agency? Virtuoso is an exclusive network of travel agencies who serve the most affluent, well-traveled individuals worldwide. Out of over 30,000 travel agencies in the USA, just 300 are Virtuoso agencies and membership is by invitation only! Virtuoso travel specialists have an average of 20 years of experience in the travel industry and are certified with the Institute of Certified Travel Agents.

You can rest assured service from Bob DeAgazio of Balboa Travel does not end when you book your cruise. From start to finish Balboa Travel is there to assist your needs and, Bob will be on-board Celebrity Solstice for the May 25, 2009 and the February 10, 2010 to help with any on-board situations that might arise.

Additionally, exciting pre and post cruise hotel and sightseeing packages will be made available. Deposits for both sailings are just $900 per cabin!

Come experience the Cruise Freek Forums difference! You'll be happy you did!

Oasis of the Seas - Updates and other announcements

OASIS OF THE SEAS
First, I know many of you are impatient but, Susan and I are working as fast as we can to get all the Oasis of the Seas information lined up, including details about hotels and the pre-cruise party. When we have the information, we will pass it along to you, including pre-booking information for those who are concerned about locking in certain cabin categories. And, I promise I will get to each of your personal emails to address your questions and concerns regarding Oasis. Remember, I don't have all the answers yet so your continued patience is appreciated! Specific cabin requests should be directed to Susan at Susan.Schaefer@AmericasVacationCenter.com

QUEEN MARY 2 HOLIDAY and OASIS OF THE SEAS 2009
Secondly, I know some of you were and may still be planning to book both the QM2 Holiday cruise and the maiden voyage of Oasis of the Seas in December, 2009. Oasis of the Seas departs on December 12 and returns on December 19 leaving only a few hours grace period to get from Florida to New York to make the pre-cruise festivities with our Cunard QM2 Holiday group. QM2 departs on December 20, 2009 for the 15 night Holiday sailing.

For anyone who plans on booking these back to back trips, please contact both Susan Schaefer (our Oasis of the Seas travel agent) and Nina Van Harn (our QM2 travel agent) to alert them both that you will be sailing on both cruises. This way everyone can work together to help make the smoothest possible travel arrangements for you. Susan can be reached at Susan.Schaefer@AmericasVacationCenter.com and Nina can be reached at nina@ambiancetc.com

HAWAII APRIL 9, 2010 CELEBRITY MILLENNIUM
For those who plan on booking or have already booked our Hawaii to Vancouver cruise departing April 9, 2010, I have begun developing your dedicated website. Here is the link: http://www.celebritymillenniumhawaii.makeswebsites.com/ Keep in mind this is a VERY ROUGH beginning but, for now you can see the Itinerary and pricing - note that we will be offering amenities including $75 to $100 per cabin on-board credit. So keeping in mind the website is still very much under construction you're invited to take a sneak peak at this wonderful repositioning cruise. Susan Schaefer is a our assigned travel agent and Susan can be contacted at: Susan.Schaefer@AmericasVacationCenter.com

CARIBBEAN PRINCESS JUNE 28 2010
For those who maybe interested we have word from Princess Cruise Lines that Caribbean Princess will be returning to New York City for a third season of cruising in 2010. At this time, we have very unofficial pricing from Princess and, while we are two years away from sailing, we MAY obtain special permission to open bookings exclusively for our group. However, this is not confirmed yet but, if this sailing is of interest to you, we will try to arrange for a reduced deposit sale when and if we get the nod from Princess that we can start booking cabins. In the meantime, you are invited to come visit the dedicated website, which again, is still very much under construction so your patience and understanding is appreciated. However, it's a great opportunity to see the ship and check out the wonderful pre-cruise activities being planned in Manhattan. Here is the link: http://www.caribbeanprincessjune282010.makeswebsites.com/
Jeanie Beck is our assigned travel agent and Jeanie can be contacted at jeanie@becktours.com

HOST BOB'S LIVE REPORTS AND CELEBRITY SOLSTICE MAY 25 2009
Our own Host Bob is off to the Mediterranean on Brilliance of the Seas and he is sending us LIVE REPORTS from his trip. You can follow along at: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/royal-caribbean-f12/host-bob-s-live-report-mediterranean-on-brilliance-t1205.htm
And, if this cruise is of interest to you, this is a reminder that Cruise Freek Forums is heading to the Mediterranean on Celebrity Solstice departing May 25, 2009. We will be offering fully escorted pre-cruise packages in Rome, Italy and, both Bob and I will be on the ship with you. Take a sneak peak of what we're offering on the very innovative Celebrity Solstice for this sailing at: http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/Group-Cruise-in-Europe-2009-with-Cruise-Freeks-h23.htm
When Bob returns he will be more than happy to book your cruise with us! Remember Bob has new contact information and his new email is: bobd@balboa.com

MARINER OF THE SEAS OCTOBER 11, 2009
I know many of you were holding back booking Fall, 2009 cruises until we found out the details regarding Oasis of the Seas. Our Mexican Riviera cruise does not conflict with Oasis and it is a very worthwhile sailing with prices beginning at just $599 per person plus taxes and charges. This 7 night round trip cruise from Los Angeles was requested by you, our board posters, so now is the time to book! For full information click the following link:
http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/Mariner-of-the-Seas-October-11-2009-from-Los-Angeles-CA-h56.htm
If you need information or would like to book contact our assigned Travel Agent Steve Mencik at sales@thevacationstop.com

CELEBRITY SOLSTICE PRESIDENT'S WEEK DEPARTS FEBRUARY 14 2010
While it's hard for many to commit so far ahead, now is the perfect time to secure your cabin on Celebrity Solstice for the wonderful combination of a Valentine's Day and President's week cruise rolled into one! Visit the following link:
http://cruisefreekforums.forumfreek.com/Celebrity-Solstice-Winter-2010-h44.htm for full information. NOTE: Pricing will be adjusted to include fuel charges. If you need information or would like to book contact our assigned Travel Agent Lona Lee at LonaLee@FriendlyCruises.com

And please be sure to check out all our group cruise opportunities and contact the respective travel agents assigned regarding questions or to book:

• Group Cruise Opportunities

1. Grand Princess - Caribbean Holiday Cruise- December 19, 2008
2. Celebrity Solstice in Europe - May 25, 2009
3. Explorer of the Seas - Bermuda - June 20, 2009
4. Queen Mary 2 - New England/Canada - July 1, 2009
5. Radiance of the Seas - Alaska - July 17, 2009
6. Celebrity Equinox Inaugural - Europe - August 8, 2009
7. Mariner of the Seas - Mexico - October 11, 2009
   
8. Project Genesis Inaugural Sailing - Fall, 2009
9. Queen Mary 2 - Caribbean Holiday Cruise - December 20, 2009

Coming in 2010:

Radiance of the Seas - South America featuring 3 nights in Rio during Carnival, 11 nights February 10, 2010

Celebrity Solstice - Caribbean President's Week - February 14, 2010

Celebrity Millennium - Hawaii to Vancouver, 15 night repositioning cruise departing April 9, 2010

Disney for Easter - 3 Night Cruise/4 Night Park Combination for Easter week 2010

4th of July week - Princess Cruise Lines from NYC

Holiday Cruise - Royal Caribbean from NJ

Spring/Summer - Cunard European Cruise

Fall - Cunard Inaugural of the NEW Queen Elizabeth

Cruise Freeks is proud to offer BOTH PEAK AND OFF PEAK WEEK GROUP CRUISES!