October 20, 2009.

Americans Invited to Cast Their Votes and Help Open a Sea of Dreams for One Lucky Winner

From Philadelphia to Roswell, N.M., the worthy finalists in Royal Caribbean International and USA TODAY’s “Reporter at Sea” contest are ready to be judged. These aspiring field correspondents are vying for the chance to cover the debut of Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Oasis of the Seas, the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ship.  From Tuesday, Oct. 20 to Saturday, Oct. 25, 2009, Americans are invited to vote for their favorite contestant at reporteratsea.usatoday.com and help make one lucky winner’s dream come true.
All “Reporter at Sea” entrants were preliminarily judged on their ability to entertain, as well as effectively bring to life travel or cruising concepts.  The finalists submitted short videos that stood out due to their creativity and quality, and now it is up to Americans to decide which of the entrants will get his or her big break, nabbing the inside scoop on Oasis of the Seas for USA TODAY’s Cruise Log along with cruise editor, Gene Sloan.

The diverse group of finalists hail from cities across the U.S. and include: Jim Walker of Beaumont, Texas; Joyce Allison of Simpsonville, S.C.; Dennis Harper of Roswell, N.M.; Andi Koch of Newton, Pa.; William White of Bethesda, Md.; Lawrence Berry of Davenport, Fla.; Jennifer Ward of Portsmouth, Va.; Elissa Dunston of Philadelphia, Pa; and Barbara Magill and Amanda Flutie of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Topics of the budding reporters’ video entries include everything from previous cruise experiences onboard Royal Caribbean ships to a passion for designing and creating models and drawings of cruise ships. A former travel agent even raps an original song that claims he is “an expert of the seas.” In addition to highlighting Oasis of the Seas offerings and amenities, one budding reporter showcases his magician skills while some finalists claim to have chemistry with the public.

The winner of the “Reporter at Sea” contest will be announced on Wednesday, Nov. 4, and will be flown with a guest to board Oasis of the Seas at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. to cover the first pre-inaugural cruise from Nov. 19 to Nov. 22.  While onboard the ship, the winner will be joined by aspiring journalists from Canada, Germany, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.

When she launches in late 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, she will span 16 decks, encompass 225,282 gross registered tons, carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line’s new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center and Entertainment Place. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Additional information is available at www.oasisoftheseas.com.

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