Harbor Pilots and Cruise Lines Sailing into Court

A dispute over harbor pilot rate increases for Galveston Island and Texas City is sending Royal Caribbean Cruises, Carnival Cruises, and the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association sailing to court. The companies filed paperwork asking for a judicial review of proceedings from earlier this year. Meanwhile, rate increases are still being considered.

The harbor pilots have insisted that all cruise ships in and out of Galveston Island and Texas City require two pilots on board. The second pilot would bill the cruise lines at 50 percent of the standard tariff. Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruises believe that modern cruise ships to not require a second harbor pilot.

Source: Houston Business Journal

Recommended reading:
Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010

Port of Los Angeles Renovations to Benefit Cruise Vacationers

Cruise lines are looking forward to major new upgrades now under consideration at the Port of Los Angeles, which may be getting its largest redevelopment project in history. Harbor commissioners are considering a $1.2-billion project to turn Ports O'Call Village in San Pedro into a bustling waterfront retail and conference center.

In addition to benefit cruise vacationers visiting the renovated port, this project will offer locals such benefits as new waterfront promenades and expanded recreational space.

Source: L.A. Times

Recommended reading:
Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010

Cruise Istanbul, Turkey: Topkapi Palace

On your Istanbul cruise, be sure to take time to visit Topkapi Palace. There's a lot to see on this palatial estate, and you may want to set aside a good 2-3 hours to take in the grandeur.

This was the home of the Turkish Sultan during the Ottoman Empire. It was the Sultan's primary residence from 1465 to 1853. In 1985, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Among other things, Topkapi Palace was famous for its Harem, home of the Sultan's concubines. Admission to the Harem is a separate charge, but it's well worth it.

Here are some photos from my recent visit to the Topkapi Palace:


















Recommended reading:
Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010

Cruise Istanbul, Turkey

There are many reasons to cruise Istanbul, Turkey. It is a city rich in history and beauty. The unique blend of architecture reflects the multiple empires that have ruled over the Golden Horn: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Exotic and mysterious, old and modern, Istanbul offers something for every traveler.


















When planning a cruise to Istanbul, be sure to add the these amazing sites to your itinerary:

Topkapi Palace

















Blue Mosque

















Hagia Sophia

















Istanbul Archeology Museum

















Grand Bazaar






















Hippodrome

















Bosphorus Bridge

















Dolmabahçe Palace

















Recommended reading:
Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010

Are There Any All-Inclusive Cruises?

For a fun and memorable vacation, all-inclusive cruises offer you everything you need. The price of your cruise vacation package typically includes stateroom, meals, entertainment, and more.

To find the best all-inclusive cruises, search online. Major mass-market cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Disney Cruises, and Royal Caribbean offer a variety of packages and destinations. These deals tend to be mostly-inclusive. Alcoholic beverages and shore excursions must be purchased separately, and other a la carte charges may apply.

For true all-inclusive cruises, check out the top luxury cruise lines like Silversea and Seabourn. These brands delivery extraordinary luxury and are a better fit for the "all-inclusive" label.

Read more about how to find all-inclusive cruises.


Recommended reading:
Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010

Cruising — Machu Picchu Highlights

When cruising South America, take the time to visit Machu Picchu in Peru.









Here are some highlights:


The main gate.









The temple of the sun.





Intiwatana Pyramid.




Three Doorways.








Temple of the Condor.





For more information, read How to Travel Machu Picchu.

Photo credits: Colegota, James Wilson, Morrissey, Theodore Scott

Recommended reading:
Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010

Cruising — Visit Machu Picchu

One of the most popular destinations on South American cruises is Machu Picchu, the "lost city of the Incas," dating from around 1450. It was recently designated one of the new seven wonders of the world.

The port of call is Callao. From there you will travel to Lima, hop a quick flight to Cusco, take a train to Agua Calientes, and finally hike or drive to Machu Picchu.

Read more about Machu Picchu Tours.

Recommended reading:
Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010