The cruise industry has long been associated with short-term vacations and snapshots of exotic destinations. However, a unique niche within this realm is beginning to capture the imagination of affluent travelers: residential cruising. Residential cruise lines are attempting to transform the concept of cruising by offering the option to permanently settle in a cabin at
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As the world of luxury cruising continues to evolve, Royal Caribbean International is making waves yet again with a novel initiative: the introduction of a resident puppy aboard its soon-to-debut ship, the Star of the Seas. Enter Sailor, a delightful three-month-old golden retriever, whose role as the company’s second „chief dog officer“ promises to enhance
In a decision that has sent shockwaves through the cruise industry, the Alaska borough of Skagway has implemented a new taxation structure that extends to the entire price cruise lines charge for shore excursions, including their commissions. Previously, the tax had only been applied to the base price of the excursions, making this a significant
An impressive forecast suggests 42 million passengers are expected to embark on cruises by 2028, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). This projection is more than a mere statistic; it’s representative of a broader resurgence in interest within the cruise industry. The annual State of the Industry report, released recently, reveals a series
Travel Weekly’s CruiseWorld is set to make a grand return this November in the vibrant Fort Lauderdale, and making your presence felt at this event is more crucial than ever. Scheduled from November 5 to 7 at the Broward County Convention Center, this conference is not just an event—it’s an opportunity for growth and transformation
Viking Cruises is on a remarkable upward trajectory, with an astonishing 92% of its capacity for 2025 already sold out. This indicates not just a promise for the future but a profound confidence in the cruise line’s offerings amid an industry that’s gradually recovering from recent disruptions. The sheer volume of bookings reflects an unyielding
As the cruise industry continues to chart its path through a landscape increasingly defined by ecological awareness, a significant disconnect emerges between consumer desires and corporate actions. Discussions with executives specializing in luxury and expedition cruising have illuminated a concerning trend: while travelers express a burgeoning interest in sustainability, their readiness to pay a premium
Royal Caribbean has set its sights on redefining vacation experiences with its ambitious new project, Perfect Day Mexico, set to launch in the fall of 2027. Spanning an impressive 200 acres along the picturesque Mexican Caribbean, this private destination promises an extraordinary blend of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly fun. With features that seemingly outdo their
As Virgin Voyages approaches its fourth anniversary, the cruise line is making waves by strategically expanding its fleet and redefining what cruising means. With the imminent debut of the Brilliant Lady in New York—its first vessel to call the Northeastern U.S. home—Virgin Voyages aims to not just attract new customers but also to cultivate lasting
The cruise industry, a vibrant sector within the travel landscape, is now setting sail for a transformative journey, emphasizing collaboration and revitalization. Under the guidance of Charles „Bud“ Darr, the new CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the organization is striving to forge stronger partnerships with travel advisors and industry associations. This strategic shift,
Cruising is not just about the destinations; it’s about the stories that the vessels carry with them. The Victory I, once lost amidst the tumult of corporate bankruptcy, represents an inspiring resurrection in the cruise industry. Under the visionary leadership of John Waggoner, who made a bold return to the business after a hiatus, the
As we stand at a pivotal moment in history, Hawaii is making a significant shift that could reshape the landscape of its tourism sector and the way we perceive our responsibility to the environment. The upcoming increase in the Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT), rising from 10.25% to 11% starting January 2026, is more than just
Royal Caribbean is set to raise the bar in cruise cuisine with its much-anticipated addition of the Lincoln Park Supper Club aboard the *Star of the Seas*. Capturing the vibrant essence of 1930s Chicago, this new dining concept promises a unique culinary journey that pays homage to the city’s legendary dining scene. Patrons can expect
Disney’s announcement of a new theme park in Abu Dhabi marks a pivotal moment not only for the entertainment giant but also for the Middle Eastern region. This ambitious venture, conceived in partnership with the Miral Group, is set to transform Yas Island into a vibrant oasis of Disney splendor. Bob Iger, Disney’s CEO, heralded
From tranquil lakes to roaring oceans, water has an undeniable power to captivate our senses and transform our moods. For many, including myself, the presence of water brings a unique blend of exhilaration and serenity. There’s something almost otherworldly about swimming; it’s as if the weight of our day-to-day lives is suspended with each stroke,
John Waggoner’s return to the cruise industry is nothing short of inspirational. After stepping away to enjoy retirement, Waggoner found himself lured back by the prospect of reviving Victory Cruise Lines, a brand synonymous with unique and enriching experiences on the Great Lakes. The acquisition of two vessels from American Queen Voyages, which had succumbed
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is poised to enhance the cruise experience for its guests with significant renovations on two of its popular ships, the Norwegian Epic and the Pride of America. Scheduled for completion this month, these upgrades are not mere aesthetic changes; they represent a strategic shift toward creating a more family-friendly and luxurious
Royal Caribbean Group has recently reported astonishing financial performance for the first quarter, with net income hitting a substantial $736 million. This impressive figure is nearly a 100% increase from the previous year’s $364 million, showcasing the cruise line’s ability to recover strong post-pandemic. Notably, the operating income rose to $945 million, marking a significant
The recent christening of the Victory I in Toronto marks not just the launch of a cruise ship but a remarkable revival of Victory Cruise Lines, enabling a new chapter in Great Lakes exploration. John Waggoner, an industry veteran with decades of experience, made headlines by re-entering the cruise market after a year-long retirement. This
In the competitive waters of the expedition cruising industry, the commitment to sustainability often clashes with the practicalities of pricing. Despite the growing hype surrounding eco-friendly practices, expedition cruise lines are hesitating to pass the costs of sustainable innovations onto their customers. This raises an intriguing question: Can environmental commitment go hand in hand with
The cruising industry has long been a topic of passionate debate. While there are countless fans of this travel modality, there are equally vocal critics who argue against its sustainability and environmental impact. At the recent Seatrade Cruise Global conference, CLIA CEO Charles „Bud“ Darr illuminated this dichotomy with pointed remarks about public resistance to
Holland America Line’s Oosterdam has recently undergone a stunning transformation, turning heads and raising expectations with its extensive renovations completed during a meticulous two-week drydock in the beautiful Bahamas. As operations are now back in full swing, this storied vessel stands not just as a ship, but as a reimagined oasis for travelers seeking a
In a bold move, MSC Cruises is setting sail into the American cruise market with its latest offering, the MSC World America. Characterized by a unique blend of Italian elegance and American flair, this ship aims to cater to a burgeoning demographic of U.S. cruisers. Enhanced amenities, popular culture integration, and family-friendly attractions highlight MSC’s
For adventurous souls longing to experience the ethereal beauty of Antarctica while indulging in lavish comforts, Silversea Cruises is redefining the travel landscape. The luxury cruise line is set to launch The Cormorant at 55 South, the world’s southernmost hotel located in Puerto Williams, Chile. Slated for inauguration in January, this exclusive hotel will serve
Holland America Line’s Tamarind restaurant has consistently set the standard for Pan-Asian dining onboard its fleet, and the recent unveiling of over a dozen new menu items is another testament to its commitment to culinary excellence. Already available on the Rotterdam, this innovative menu will roll out to the Nieuw Statendam, Koningsdam, Eurodam, and Nieuw
Windstar Cruises is set to elevate the cruising experience with the launch of its first new ship, Star Seeker, scheduled to embark on December 28. This sumptuous vessel embodies the essence of luxury cruising, showcasing well-curated lounge areas and sophisticated dining venues that cater to the most discerning travelers. The initial glimpses of the ship
As the allure of Antarctica becomes more pronounced among affluent travelers, Silversea Cruises is making waves by establishing a landmark hotel, The Cormorant at 55 South, in Puerto Williams, Chile. Set to revolutionize the luxury adventure travel experience for the 2025-26 Antarctica season, this ambitious project exemplifies the company’s commitment to elevating the standards of
Amidst fluctuating economic conditions, the cruise industry stands at a crossroads, grappling with shifting consumer sentiments. Executives from major cruise lines have recently gathered at the Seatrade Cruise Global conference in Miami Beach, where their discussions revealed a mix of guarded optimism and realistic acknowledgment of market challenges. As stock market volatility has sparked consumer
When embarking on a luxury cruise like the one offered by Explora Journeys, one might expect stories of breathtaking landscapes or extravagant onboard activities to dominate post-trip conversations. However, my journey aboard the Explora I began and ended with an unexpected star: the bread. This may sound trivial, but this seemingly simple yet crucial component
The launch of the Norwegian Aqua heralds an exciting evolution in the cruise industry. Unlike its earlier Prima-class siblings—Norwegian Prima and Viva—this ship can be aptly termed a “cousin ship,” as it not only boasts new features but also offers a 10% increase in size. Traveling through the Aqua’s spacious decks reveals an array of
When people ask me about my favorite cruise experiences, I cannot help but reflect on the ocean of memories I’ve accumulated over my time as a travel journalist. Having set foot on 29 different vessels within a span of just three years, I have not only traveled through myriad seas and ports but have also
Carnival Cruise Line’s recent announcement regarding its upcoming ships, Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale, unveils a fresh and exciting chapter in the cruise industry. With an ear to the ground and eyes set on an innovative voyage, Carnival is keen on revamping the cruising experience to cater to evolving guest needs while maintaining the cheerful
In the wake of disasters, the Caribbean often grapples with a challenge that goes beyond tangible infrastructural damage. It’s a battle for perception that can define the trajectory of tourism recovery. Misinformation can portray an entire island as irreparably damaged when, in reality, only specific areas may have been affected. This distortion can lead to
Oceania Cruises continues to push the boundaries of luxury cruising with the upcoming launch of its newest vessel, the Allura, set to grace the seas in July. This addition to the fleet signifies not only an expansion in size but also a significant augmentation in the culinary offerings that have long been the brand’s hallmark.
In an exciting strategic shift for travelers seeking tropical escapes, Holland America Line (HAL) is set to redefine its Caribbean itineraries for the 2026-27 winter season. This transformation revolves around expanded offerings that emphasize longer voyages—specifically tailored experiences running from nine to fourteen days. Notably, each voyage promises a visit to the much-anticipated Half Moon
In a surprising turn of events for the aviation sector, advanced bookings between Canada and the United States have plummeted over 70% for the upcoming summer season, according to data analysts at OAG. This unprecedented decline is not just a fleeting blip but a significant indication of underlying economic and social tensions. John Grant, a
As the cruise industry navigates turbulent economic waters, Carnival Corp. has emerged as a beacon of resilience amidst the storm. Following the onset of President Donald Trump’s tariffs and their implications for the market, financial analysts awaited the quarterly earnings report from Carnival with bated breath. The results didn’t just meet expectations – they surpassed
Imagine lounging in a beautifully furnished residence as you glide across the azure waters of the Mediterranean. This dream is on the cusp of becoming a reality with the inception of Crescent Seas, a bold new venture led by industry veteran Russell W. Galbut, former chairman of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. With a focus on
In a world where economic fluctuations and global tensions often dictate the fate of corporations, Carnival Corp. stands out as a beacon of resilience. Under the leadership of CEO Josh Weinstein, the cruise giant reported staggering first-quarter results, setting a record with $5.8 billion in revenue. This figure marks an impressive increase of over $400
Viking, a titan in the river cruise industry, has recently undergone significant leadership changes that signify both a shift in strategy and a continued commitment to growth. The departure of Michele Saegesser, who has shaped the company’s sales narrative for over 25 years, leaves a noteworthy gap but also opens doors for the ascent of