Costa Cruises is strengthening its presence in Dubai to develop the Arab cruise market with onboard facilities specifically for Arab passengers and a new branch office in Dubai. Plans were announced jointly between Costa and the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) at a press conference aboard the Costa Deliziosa.

Princess Cruises’ 2011 Alaska program includes 104 departures by six ships sailing on three itineraries during the May-to-September season.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises will launch River Antoinette, the sister ship to the River Beatrice, in March 2011 on the Rhine River. Using the same décor and design standards as the River Beatrice, the River Antoinette will ship the “Castles Along the Rhine” itinerary.

Royal Caribbean International will pull the Mariner of the Seas off its Mexican Riviera itinerary, a further blow to a region that will see a major reduction in cruise traffic over the next year.

Celebrity Cruises has announced its winter 2011-12 Caribbean cruises, most of which are available for booking.

Discerning cruisers have long applauded Celebrity Cruises for its award-winning ships’ ability to deliver outstanding service, world-class cuisine and enriching activities in a stylish atmosphere.