Now that I’ve gotten over my shock and disappointment that Carnival Corporation is discontinuing Fathom Cruise Line, I can reflect and write about it.
Last year, it was truly exciting to hear about the unveiling of this new style of cruising, being someone who promotes Humanitarian Travel and Mission Trips. I was so excited and anxious to experience the first voyage to the Dominican Republic (DR). But, it was not until May of this year that I had an opportunity to make a difference in the DR.
Though, the Adonia won’t be sailing to the DR and Cuba (after May 2017), the concept of what Fathom started will continue. The cruise lines, under Carnival Corporation, are offering some of Fathom’s impact activities as excursions when they sail to the DR (Amber Cove). Six cruise lines are offering the impact activities: AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and P&O Cruises UK. Those unique excursions are the Hands-On Chocolate Experience at a Women's Cooperative and the Volunteer Experience at Recycled Paper & Crafts Entrepreneurship. These are the new names for two of the impact activities I participated in during my Fathom cruise. The main point is that travelers will still have an opportunity to make a difference, if they are inspired to do so.
It appears that Carnival Corporation is committed to expanding the Fathom concept in the DR and to other parts of the world. Tara Russell, Fathom’s President, will continuing to lead social impact growth within Carnival Corp. She gave a presentation at the Going On Faith Conference in Ontario, CA this year. Her speech was personable and heartfelt. I hope the best for her during this transition.
You still have time to take the 7-day cruise on Adonia to the DR, the last sailing departs Miami on May 21st. Here are the remaining 2017 departure dates.
January 1st, 15th, 29th
February 12th, 26th
March 12th, 26th
April 9th, 23rd
May 7th, 21st