Carnival Corp. said the
social-impact activities now confined to its Fathom brand in the Dominican
Republic are being offered on other brands sailing there.
Guests making port calls at
Carnival's privately developed Amber Cove are able to buy a social-impact shore
excursion.
Initially, two are offered --
a trip to a women's cooperative in the countryside that makes chocolate and a paper-recycling operation.
Unlike a conventional tour,
guests don't simply observe but participate in the activities alongside residents
and workers. The idea is to have a social exchange and learn more deeply about
local culture while doing a project that benefits residents.
"Our travelers
repeatedly tell us the activities and interaction with the local Dominican
people is very fulfilling, rekindling their hope and passion and inspiring a
whole new perspective on life," Fathom president Tara Russell said.
Excursions cost between $50 and $100. A spokeswoman said it is up to each brand to determine
pricing. On Princess Cruises,
the chocolate excursion
is priced at $89.95, while the paper-recycling excursion costs $79.95.
Holland America
designates the activities with a $$ label, which means $51 to $100 per
person.
Fathom, which alternates
cruises weekly between the Dominican Republic and Cuba, spends its entire
cruise docked at Amber Cover. Guests can do social-impact excursions on several
consecutive days and they are included in the price of the cruise.
Seven of Carnival Corp.'s 10
brands visit Amber Cove. Besides Fathom, they are Carnival Cruise Line, Holland
America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, Aida Cruises and P&O Cruises
(UK).
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This report was updated Thursday with excursion pricing.