Discount caribbean cruises

First European Cruises' new 1,500-passenger European Vision will sail round trip from Santo Domingo every Sunday from Dec. 23, 2001, to April 7, 2002.

This will mark the ship's inaugural program in the Caribbean, following her launch this past June on a sold-out season in the Mediterranean.

The two new winter programs offer a choice of alternating; port-intensive itineraries to off-the-beaten-path islands in the lower Caribbean.

The "Caribbean Escapade" sails from Santo Domingo to Aruba, Curacao, Isla Margarita, Mayreau (a private beach island), Guadeloupe and St. Maarten. Departure dates are Dec. 30; Jan. 13 and 27; Feb. 10 and 24; March 10 and 24, and April 7.

"Caribbean Getaway" is the program that sails from Santo Domingo to Tortola, Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Guadeloupe and St. Barts. Departure dates are Dec.23, Jan. 6 and20; Feb. 3 and 17, and March 3, 17 and 31.

Cruise-only rates for European Vision's winter sailings range from $699 to $1,459 per person, double occupancy, plus $125 per person for port charges. A 15% discount is offered on all bookings made 120 days prior to departure. Air/sea add-ons are available from 72 U.S. gateways.

In addition, the cruises may be extended with special, all-inclusive pre- or post-cruise packages at a selection of several 5-star resorts located within a half hour of Santo Domingo.

First European Cruises is a member of the Cruise Lines International Association and books exclusively through travel agents and selected tour operators.