Carnival Valor To Debut In Caribbean

Carnival Cruise Lines is set to launch its newest “Fun Ship” early next month from the port of Miami. Following a two-day introductory Bahamas voyage on December 15-17, 2004, the Carnival Valor will sail Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami.

“Carnival Valor will be the ultimate ‘floating resort’ offering the facilities and features desired by today’s consumers,” said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

Currently undergoing final interior outfitting at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, Carnival Valor encompasses 12 passenger decks and houses 22 lounges, bars and nightspots, including a sports bar, wine bar, piano bar and a multi-level theater showcasing lavish Vegas-style revues.

The Carnival Valor has 28 wheelchair-accessible staterooms in a wide range of categories. Visit www.carnival.com for more information on this new SuperLiner.

Cruising remains the most accessible Caribbean travel option, even though accessible shore excursions are not widely available through most cruise lines. The good news is that thanks to some enterprising locals, accessible shore options are now available in Aruba, the Bahamas, Curacao, Barbados, Belize, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Cozumel and the US Virgin Islands. The catch is that since these local operators are not widely publicized, travelers have to arrange the tours on their own.

Check out the Autumn 2004 issue of Emerging Horizons for the latest updates on accessible shore excursions throughout the Caribbean.