On top of this was a circular tower that housed fire (for use to alert ships during night) and great mirror (for use during day). A statue of Poseidon stood on top this tower.

The Pharos Lighthouse was a true wonder in architecture and engineering, bearing similarities to modern skyscrapers. It measured up to a modern 40-story building. The Greeks were so impressed with it that they included it as one of Seven Wonders of Ancient World.

The mirror of Pharos Lighthouse appeared to be quite famous in ancient times. Many people believed that mirror was so smooth and powerful that it could be used to reflect sun's rays onto invading ships and burn them. Another belief was that mirror was so strong it could be used to observe and spy on competing city-states across Mediterranean Sea, more than 100 miles away. However, it is highly unlikely that either of these stories are true.

From historical evidence, it appears that Pharos Lighthouse was also a tourist attraction. Hundreds of visitors climbed Lighthouse everyday to enjoy fantastic view around Alexandria. Food vendors also sold their goods at top of each section of Pharos.

However, Pharos Lighthouse was damaged by earthquakes, becoming totally demolished in early 14th century. Its ruins and location were subsequently used by Egyptian Sultan Qaitbay to build a fort in 1480, thus ending story for this Wonder of World.

For more information on Lighthouse of Alexandria, visit http://www.nekhebet.com/w_lighthouse.html

Kids Crew™

Norwegians have a way with kids! NCL's complimentary Kid's Crew™ is a program of things to do places to go and kids to meet. It's like recess only longer. Sleep away camp, only better. A specially trained staff of youth counselors from universities and organizations, who carry an impressive bag of tricks for your kids, carefully supervises every minute. There are circuses, crafts, parades, sports, games, stories and parties. Campouts with tents, cooking classes where they can make a pizza or pancakes, T-shirt painting, face painting, treasure hunts and sandcastle competitions if your cruise includes a visit to NCL's private island.

Age specific, programs vary for Junior Sailors age 3 to 5, First Mates age 6 to 8, Navigators age 9 to 12 and Teens age 13 to 17 (teens enjoy karaoke, dancing, pool parties, scavenger hunts, trivia contests, exercise classes, volleyball, basketball and movies). Programs are subject to change and aforementioned is far from a complete list. But you get idea!

Great Stirrup Cay

NCL's Own Private Island in Bahamas Relax on talcum sand and swim in crystal-clear waters of NCL's own Private Island in Bahamas. Even most novice snorkeler can see brilliant fish, gentle stingrays and coral reefs. Floats, paddleboats, kayaks and Kis-Kat sailboats are available to ensure guests enjoy wonders of Great stirrup Cay's waters.

Dive In™

Snorkeling Program Features an experienced and knowledgeable instructor, fins, a mask and safety vest. Scuba excursions are also available!

"Europe Plus" Program

Features free, two-night pre- or post-cruise hotel packages, transfers, private hospitality desks at hotels and breakfast at Rome hotels in conjunction with Norwegian Dream's European and Mediterranean cruises. (Must be booked and deposited 180 days prior to sailing; some restrictions apply.)

Latitudes Program

NCL's Latitudes Program is designed to recognize guest loyalty with special savings and greater benefits on cruises, including future cruise discounts, an on board cocktail party for members only, on board consultant, complimentary subscription to Latitudes, NCL's quarterly magazine, special check-in at selected ports and more.

Romance Packages

For those special moments, NCL offers wedding packages, which include a wedding coordinator, ceremony, wedding officinal, announcements, wedding cake, photography package and more.

Winter Weather Guarantee!

Ask about Norwegian Dawn's Winter Weather Guarantee who provides shipboard credits and/or cruise credits for certain weather-related cancellations or specific delays. Applicable to select sailing months.

A young fleet by most cruises line standards; ships have either been built within past six years or have enjoyed recent refurbishment. Norwegian Star, Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Dawn were inaugurated in 2001 and 2002 respectively. Norwegian Sky's maiden voyage was in 1999 (she has been re-flagged as Pride of Aloha and has joined new NCL America brand in July 2004). Norwegian Majesty first sailed in 1997, Norwegian Wind in 1993 and Norwegian Dream in 1992 (both Wind and Dream were refurbished in 1998) Norwegian Sea launched in 1988 and was refurbished in both 2001 and 2003. 77,000 ton, 2000 guest Norwegian Spirit (formerly Superstar Leo of Star Cruises), was built for Freestyle Cruising in 1998. She closely resembles her larger sister, Norwegian Dawn.

In September 2003, NCL added Norwegian Crown to their fleet. Formerly Crown Odyssey she previously sailed under banner of NCL's sister company, Orient Lines. She has undergone a multi-million dollar transformation to Freestyle standard including addition of three new restaurants including NCL's signature Le Bistro, a Pasta Café and Asian influenced Chopsticks. The Seven Seas Restaurant, Yacht Club and Café Italia are also on board. Other changes include enhancements to Top of Crown Lounge, an expanded Lido Bar, a complete renovation to casino, and Mandara Spa, Beauty Salon and Fitness Center was completely rebuilt.

About the author: William Lezubski (Accredited Cruise Counsellor (ACC), and Certified Travel Counsellor(CTC)-William is a professional in the Travel Industry and the author of “Discount Caribbean Vacations Web Site” available at http://www.discount-caribbean- vacations.com/index.htm