WHEN Norweigan Cruise Line's Marco Polo vessel visited Dublin recently, a
leading Belfast travel agency sent four of its best cruising customers on a
day trip to remember.

They travelled by luxury limousine to Dublin where Marco Polo's passengers
were having a taste of the Celtic Tiger - and possibly a pint of Guinness at
the same time - while invited guests were able to tour the ship and
experience cruise line dining at its best.

Knock Travel Director, Doreen McKenzie, met her loyal customers for an early
morning start. She had hired the limo and stocked up on champagne and
appetisers, including caviar, making the two and a half hour journey south a
stylish one.

Once onboard the Marco Polo the visitors dined in the ship's restaurant and
went on a tour to discover its first-class facilities.

NCL's Marco Polo vessel is a smaller traditional cruise ship accommodating
the more mature passenger.

Although smaller in size compared to other liners, the Marco Polo still
boasts the facilities you'd expect on a luxury cruise. It was launched in
1965, carries 850 passengers and 350 crew members, but was totally renovated in 1993.

Staff onboard the Marco Polo are pleasant and exceptionally hospitable, but
what NCL prides itself on is its repeat clientele which currently stands at
39 per cent. The company says this "further demonstrates that it provides a
certain service and product that guarantees customer loyalty and approval".

Onboard facilities and services the Belfast visitors experienced were
flawless. Food served on the ship's Seven Seas Restaurant was of the highest
standard. Entertainment and activities on board range from a buzzing casino,
the lively Ambassador Lounge that hosts twice nightly shows and the peaceful
Polo Lounge where live piano music is played after dinner.

Also onboard is a modest size health club with workout equipment which
overlooks the ocean, a room where dance and aerobic lessons take place, a
beauty centre, swimming pool and three jacuzzis.

What sets the Marco Polo apart from other cruise ships is its ability to
cruise to the Antarctic thanks to its sturdy hull and smaller size allowing
it to enter ports where larger ships aren't able to berth.

Contact your local travel agent for details on the Marco Polo and its
anticipated cruise itineraries.