Air France-KLM Buys 25 Percent Share of Alitalia

Following Air France-KLM’s announcement on Jan. 12 and the approval of the competition authorities, the Air France-KLM Group has completed its acquisition of a 25 percent stake in Alitalia through the subscription to a reserved capital increase for an amount of some 323 million euros.

This strengthened partnership cemented by Air France-KLM’s minority stake in Alitalia gives Air France-KLM greater access to the Italian market thanks to Alitalia, which, following its acquisition of Air One, has reinforced its position on the domestic market.

Celebration Cruise Line officially began operations out of Port Everglades, Fla., with the inaugural cruise of the Bahamas Celebration on March 16. The new cruise line offers two- and three-night, roundtrip cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. With limited advertising, cabin bookings for March are at 96 percent capacity, and April is trending similarly, according to the company.

Celebration Cruise Line is creating its niche in the crowded South Florida cruise market by trying to offer the best value in the industry. Fares start at $199 per person, double, for a three-night weekend cruise, with three-night cruise options as low as $119. The two-night cruises depart Monday and Wednesday.

At nearly 700 feet and over 35,000 gross tonnage, the Bahamas Celebration can hold up to 1,500 passengers. Dining options include four restaurants: an American restaurant serving five-course meals, a Brazilian-style steakhouse and buffet, a casual Italian restaurant and, for an additional fee, a the upscale Cove Restaurant.

Additional amenities include a 630-seat nightclub, lounges, a casino, a spa, a fitness room, three children’s clubs with age-appropriate electronic games and activities, a pool for adults, and a pirate-themed pool with a 180-foot slide for children. The cruise also offers a variety of live music and shows, as well as snorkeling, sightseeing tours and beach resort excursions.