Access America is sponsoring an exciting new way to learn about cruising – the Virtual Cruise, presented exclusively by Cruising Authority (www.cruisetalkshow.com). Most recently, Access America and Cruise Authority partnered to present a 360-degree review of the MS Nieuw Amsterdam’s cruise to the Eastern Caribbean.

Cruising Authority’s Virtual Cruise program presents complete reviews of notable voyages through photos, video, blogs and podcasts. Created and hosted by cruising veteran Barry Vaudrin, who has taken more than 300 cruises, the Virtual Cruise allows cruise enthusiasts to see a ship, its destination, activities, crew and amenities from every angle before they ever step on board.

Vaudrin cruised aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam for one week and documented his family’s experience through a series of videos, live blog entries and radio-style interviews with journalists and experts. Mixed with his own candid impressions of the experience, Vaudrin interviews the crew along with journalists aboard and asks for their expert insights.

The virtual cruise experience, available through www.cruisetalkshow.com, includes:

* Complete, detailed blog entries reviewing the cruise.
* Photos of the cruise, the ship, destinations and activities.
* Video entries that include footage of the ship, the beaches and interviews with experts offering insights on why this cruise is special.

“Barry does a wonderful job of bringing a cruise to life and cruising is an important market for travel insurance, so this format really makes sense to use,” said Daniel Durazo, director of communications for Access America.

“MS Nieuw Amsterdam®” is a registered trademark of Holland America Line – USA, Inc.