Hefty consumer demand for seagoing vacations drove robust passenger growth in the first three months of 2005 as the member fleets of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) carried 2.63 million worldwide guests in the first quarter of 2005, an 8.9 percent increase over the same period in 2004. The 2005 first-quarter passenger figures are new statistics released this week by CLIA, an organization that comprises 19 member cruise lines. In addition to the growing passenger totals, CLIA cruise lines also posted impressive occupancy figures, with a 104.3 percent occupancy factor in the first quarter of 2005, compared with 103.3 percent for the year prior.

Costa Crociere, the leading cruise company in Italy, Europe and South America, has announced its schedules for the 2005-2006 winter season, with several important new features both in the Caribbean and in South America, as well as the introduction of new itineraries in the Mediterranean. From November 2005 to April 2006, Costa Crociere will be offering a total of around 143 cruises.

Underscoring its leadership position in the Asia market, Princess Cruises offers its largest deployment there ever with two ships and a vast array of unique itineraries. The line will increase its Asia capacity by more than 25 percent for the 2006-2007 season. Whether exploring the secrets of Angkor Wat in new port-of-call Cambodia, or soaking up the lively traditions of Beijing, Princess passengers have more options than ever before to delve into the fascinating cultures of exotic Asia.

Crystal Cruises implemented a $4 per-person, per-day fuel surcharge on cruises departing after July 15 that are not paid in full by that date. In a brief statement Crystal said it had resisted the implementation of a fuel surcharge for many months. "However, we find that we cannot ignore the continued rising price of oil and its negative impact on our operating costs," the statement indicates.

Those with a yen for open water cruising and chocoholics alike will find their tastes satisfied aboard their choice of luxury cruises on the 700-guest Seven Seas Voyager this November and December. From the Caribbean´s palm-fringed shores to Europe´s "Island of Eternal Spring," Radisson Seven Seas Cruises offers five itineraries featuring two-for-one savings, from a five-night cruise in the tropics to an eight-night transatlantic crossing.

As soon as this year´s winter winds begin to blow, a new luxury yacht will be available for charter bookings in the Caribbean. The Capercaillie is penciled in to provide the ultimate setting for a relaxing yet active holiday. The product hopes to break all markets being accessible for families, ideal for romantic breaks or also good for time away with friends. The British vessel will be on offer from November to May. The accommodation comprises three teak-paneled double cabins each one equipped with suite bathrooms, TV and DVD.