However, it is not easy as just running an extension cord from the dock to the ship. In this case, Princess Cruises has invested nearly $7 million in equipment alone to convert their ships to utilizing port power.  Current Princess Cruise Ships that utilize this technology include: Coral Princess, Dawn Princess, Diamond Princess, Golden Princess, Island Princess, Sapphire Princess, Sea Princess, Star Princess, and Sun Princess.

This shore power technology is also known as “cold ironing.”  Four 3.5 inch diameter electrical cables are routed to the ship and utilizes electrical power from shore.  The average time needed to convert ship power to shore power is around 40 minutes.  Once connected, the ship’s diesel engines are turned off while the needed power from port runs the electrical needs of the ship.

Enjoy a cruise that gives you an experience of laughs, actions, excitement, adventure, and nature.  New worlds are waiting for you on and off the ship.  You decide on your schedule.

Norwegian Cruise Lines offers you Freestyle Cruising which translates to freedom and flexibility.

But wait, there’s more….

The award winning fleet offers 14 dining options.

Enjoy activities on board that include soothing spa, Kid’s Crew program, bowling, fantastic casino, and much, much more.

And besides the ship, on shore excursions offers fun filled adventures that bring lifelong memories.

Stay in rooms from villas and suites.  Also there are interconnecting staterooms for families.

Hurry, because this sale ends May 31, 2009

Well…that’s no excuse anymore because Norwegian Cruise Line understands and wants other members of the family and friends to enjoy the cruise.  How about for only $99?  Yes.  Its true.  But there is a deadline of May 18, 2009

You can even share the stateroom with family or friends.  When you are taking in the awesome glaciers, whales, and wildlife…..you can tell the first time cruisers that Norwegian Cruise Line was awarded the 2009 Readers’ Choice Award from Southern Living Magazine for “Top Five Best Cruise Lines.”

There are convenient departures from Seattle or Vancouver with 7 day cruises starting from $449.  And as always, check out the fine print and maybe some of the other restrictions that may apply.

Another great deal is that if you book through the Disney Cruise website, you receive a $25 shipboard credit.

But wait, there’s more.  This promotion is similar to what the local residents near the California Park gets.  California residents often get great discounts to admission to Disneyland.  Now, the cruise line is offering a similar deal.  If you are a Florida resident, you may take a Disney Bahamian or Caribbean cruise at a discount.

Last but not least - book your vacation and pay less up front.  Pay only 50% of the usual deposit and reserve your spot on the magical Disney Cruise vacation.

As always, great deals don’t last long.  Many if not all are for a limited time only.  So stop dreaming and start cruising!

Norwegian Cruise Lines is offering a hard to beat deal.  Book a cruise and get up to $250 of spending on board your cruise.  But wait, there is more.  Book a cruise and bring extra guests from $99.  There are some restrictions that apply so be sure to read the fine print.  However, don’t think too long because this special ends March 15, 2009.

Reservations are being taken right now for the inaugural cruise.  Some of the itineraries include a 12 day, round trip, Mediterranean cruise from Rome.  After that, there is a 16 day trans Atlantic cruise from Rome to New York.  This cruise is slated for October 27-November 12, 2009.

After that, there will be two 8 day Bahama/Florida cruises.  Departure dates are November 15 and November 23, 2009.  From there, Carnival Dream will go to Port Canaveral, Florida for a special cruise on December 3, 2009.  This is a one time, 9 day Caribbean cruise.  The schedule will then settle in with year round 7 day cruises from Port Canaveral, December 12, 2009.  Routes are to the eastern and western Caribbean.

Some of the food supplies used or prepared in only one week include:  2,005 pounds of pasta, 3,258 pounds of french fries, 6,060 pounds of steak, 2,708 pounds of shrimp, 338 gallons of ice cream, 28,767 bread rolls, 68,920 eggs, 10,068 slices of pizza, 4,961 pounds of cheese.

The interior of the two ships are different.  The Disney Magic has an art deco theme.  Throughout the ship, there are sleek, straight lines, slender forms, and modern motifs.  The Disney Wonder has an art nouveau theme.  There is a nature type feeling.  Curvy, wave designs and whimsical interiors help reinforce the style.

The resources on the two ships include 1,850 telephones.  Total fuel capacity is 20,000 gallons.  Each ship can convert sea water into fresh water through distillation.  Water that is distilled equals 1,200 tons a day.  Water is collected from the air conditioning system.  280 tons of water is collected and used to operate the laundry.

On the bow of the Disney Magic, you will find Sorcerer Mickey.  On the bow of the Disney Wonder, you will find Steamboat Willie.  In the lobby of the Disney Magic, you will find a statue of Helmsman Mickey.  In the lobby of the Disney Wonder, you will find a statue of Ariel.

An example of the savings - a three to five day sailing would only require a deposit of $50.  A six to 9 day cruise would require a deposit of $125.  Booking of cruises of ten days of more requires a $200 deposit.  This is down from a normal deposit of $400.

Kevin Sheehan, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line says that we are experiencing rough waters in the world economy.  This promotion offers great value for a someone considering booking a cruise.