The cruise industry has long sought to respond to the ever-changing vacation tastes and desires of its passengers by enhancing onboard facilities and amenities, as evidenced in the comprehensive stem-to-stern, multi-million dollar renovations routinely undertaken by the 19 member operators of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

"Nothing is overlooked in our member lines' efforts to ensure that all ships - whether new to the world's cruise waters or veterans of years of ocean voyages - measure up to our guests' high expectations in terms of features, amenities and cutting-edge facilities," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the marketing organization for 19 North American cruise lines and 16,500 travel agencies - North America's largest travel industry association based on agency membership.

With 62 ships launched in the last five years, and more growth expected throughout the next decade, CLIA-member cruise lines are ensuring that existing fleet mates match the state-of-the-art standards of their newer siblings.

Among the unusual enhancements planned are expansive spa facilities featuring advanced treatment technologies, computer labs, 300-square-foot poolside movie screens, and an entire ship deck dedicated to teens.

"In addition to these out-of-the ordinary new facilities, our member lines regularly replace carpets, furnishings, linens, wall coverings, and - perhaps more importantly - they modernize mechanical, electrical and technical systems, such as fire safety apparatus, navigational equipment and waste treatment facilities," Dale said.

CLIA cruise lines have recently undertaken the following refurbishment projects:

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES
Celebration and Fantasy were both the recipients of multi-million refurbishments. Celebration now sports a new reception area, including new carpeting, furniture wall coverings and artwork, creating a more contemporary atmosphere.

The Vista and Horizon formal restaurants are now appointed in pastel-hued décor and reconfigured to provide diners with a greater feeling of spaciousness, openness and comfort. Each of Celebration's 743 staterooms received new curtains, carpeting, wallpaper, upgraded linens, pillows and bedspreads.

Fantasy, meanwhile, has a new lobby bar and the ship's 1,028 staterooms have been completely made over in a fashion similar to Celebration's. The Forum conference facility has been reconfigured as both a meeting space and entertainment venue.
Other public rooms on both ships were appointed with new carpeting and wall coverings and other such cosmetic enhancements. (CONTINUE...)