Christmas this year thanks to the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association member lines.

The FCCA Foundation for the Caribbean's Holiday Gift Programme, which is in its third year, is an integral part of the Association's outreach programmes aimed at children in Caribbean communities.

Officers and crew from participating FCCA Member Cruise Lines will deliver gifts such as toys, sports equipment and educational materials to schools, orphanages, foster homes and institutions for the mentally and physically challenged in 19 ports of call.

The programme not only enhances the joy of the holiday season for these children, it also offers crew members the chance to play a hands-on role in the destinations which they visit each week and revitalise their own holiday spirit.

As one crew member said: "Working through the holidays aboard a ship can make you miss your family and home.

"Helping these underprivileged kids whom normally wouldn't have a bright holiday reminds me of just how lucky I am.

"Their smiles and laughter make you realise what is truly important.'' Regular Bermuda visitors Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International are amongst the eight participating lines.