Cruise

Royal Caribbean International is set to launch its second vessel in the groundbreaking Icon class, the Star of the Seas. Leveraging insights garnered from its predecessor, the Icon of the Seas, which has welcomed a staggering half-million passengers since its debut, Royal Caribbean is laying the groundwork for a new family-centric experience. The company is

In a significant shift within the cruise industry, Oceania Cruises has announced the departure of its president, Frank A. Del Rio. This decision comes on the heels of Jason Montague’s return to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings as chief luxury officer, a role where he will oversee both Regent Seven Seas Cruises and the Oceania brands.

The cruise industry, once synonymous with luxury, exploration, and economic growth, now faces an existential challenge in some of the world’s most picturesque locales. One such battleground is the iconic Nice-Côte d’Azur, where government officials are contemplating stringent restrictions on cruise ships. The recent decree signed by Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi poses an outright ban

Over the last two decades, the consumption of green tea has become a cherished morning ritual for countless individuals around the globe, including myself. However, it wasn’t until a recent voyage that I began to appreciate the intricate process and cultural heritage that transforms tea leaves into the soothing beverage we enjoy daily. Aboard the

Travel Leaders Network (TLN) is basking in unprecedented success as it closes the books on 2024, reporting an impressive 17% increase in sales compared to 2023. This performance marks a significant milestone in the consortium’s history, and forecasts for 2025 suggest that the momentum will continue to build. TLN’s president, John Lovell, emphasized the thriving

Quark Expeditions is set to embark on a bold new journey by collaborating with Atlas Ocean Voyages to charter the luxurious ship, World Voyager, for an exciting three-year tenure beginning in November 2026. This partnership marks a significant step in Quark’s commitment to blending adventure travel with scientific exploration. The World Voyager will sail under

HX Expeditions Holdings has officially emerged as a standalone entity following its separation from Hurtigruten Group, a decision that marks a significant evolution within the cruise industry. This pivotal transition has been coupled with a substantial investment commitment amounting to 140 million euros aimed at modernizing and enhancing its fleet. The strategic allocation of funds

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering its sales division, Oceania Cruises has appointed Brennan Quesnele as the new Senior Vice President of Sales, effective February 24. Quesnele, who transitions from a similar role at Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), steps in to fill the vacancy left by Nikki Upshaw, who departed the company in January.

The travel landscape is constantly evolving, and one trend that is rapidly gaining traction is adventure cruising. The 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report highlights this style of travel as a primary focus for discerning globetrotters. Unlike traditional cruises that lean heavily on luxury and comfort, adventure cruises emphasize immersive, nature-based experiences that cultivate a deeper understanding

In late January, the picturesque island of Santorini, Greece—a hotspot for tourists seeking stunning sunset views and rich history—has found itself at the center of a geological mystery. Over the course of just two weeks, scientists have detected an astounding number of earthquakes in the vicinity, primarily of small magnitudes. The University of Athens‘ crisis

In recent years, Forbes Travel Guide has embarked on an exciting expansion from its traditional focus on evaluating hotels, restaurants, and spas into the dynamic realm of the cruise industry. This evolution began in 2023 when the prestigious travel guide initially reviewed a select number of cruise ships, a move that reflected the growing interest

As we venture into a new year, the cruise industry presents a tantalizing landscape marked by shifting trends and unique dynamics. Early reports for the 2025 Wave season indicate that while the demand for cruise bookings is experiencing some noticeable fluctuations, pricing remains robust. This article will delve into the intricacies of the current market

In recent years, Disney has adopted a cautious strategy regarding the marketing and sales of its Lightning Lane Premier Pass, a premium offering that allows theme park visitors to bypass typical wait times for attractions. Launched in October 2022, the pass was previously restricted to guests residing at select Disney hotels. However, the program has

When one thinks of cruise ships, the first images that come to mind often revolve around sprawling decks, luxurious pools, and gourmet dining options. Yet, beneath the surface of these floating resorts lies a world often unseen by guests—hidden areas that serve various operational purposes. However, aboard the Margaritaville at Sea’s newest and most expansive

As the cruise industry gradually emerges from the shadows of the pandemic, the recent announcement regarding Jan Swartz’s resignation from Carnival Corp. marks a significant transition for the company. Swartz, who has spent an impressive 24 years with the organization, has made remarkable contributions to the cruise sector through her various leadership roles, culminating in

Celebrity Cruises is setting the stage for a transformative travel experience with its upcoming ship, the Celebrity Xcel. By integrating the cultures of its ports of call directly onto the ship, the cruise line aims to create an immersive atmosphere that engages guests more deeply than traditional cruise offerings. The heart of this initiative is

The Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, a beloved floating oasis, is set to undergo a transformation aimed at enhancing guest experiences with a range of exciting dining and entertainment upgrades slated for late March. This revitalization promises to bring a vibrant atmosphere onboard, attracting seasoned cruisers and first-time travelers alike with new flavors and engaging social

The world of luxury travel is undergoing a remarkable transformation as esteemed hotel brands expand their horizons into maritime adventures. With iconic names such as the Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Aman, and Orient Express venturing into the cruise industry, we are witnessing the emergence of an entirely new segment of luxury hospitality. This article explores the

Oceania Cruises is embarking on an exciting culinary overhaul across its fleet, beginning with the debut of the Allura in July 2023. This ambitious initiative will see the Grand Dining Room’s menu transformed with the introduction of 270 innovative recipes that promise to elevate the dining experience for guests. By the close of the first

Oceania Cruises has established a reputation as a premier choice for luxury cruise enthusiasts, particularly those who prioritize fine dining experiences at sea. The cruise line has effectively differentiated itself in the competitive cruise market by incorporating a rich culinary focus, collaborating with renowned chefs and culinary personalities to elevate the onboard experience. This article

As the luxury travel sector recuperates from the disruptions caused by the pandemic, industry experts are beginning to voice concerns about potential shifts in pricing structures. Although the demand for high-end accommodations and exclusive experiences remains robust, certain indicators suggest that price reductions may soon become necessary for many luxury hotels and cruises. This commentary

The luxury travel sector is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, as highlighted by the recent findings from Virtuoso, a leading travel agency consortium. According to their report, 2024 has already seen a staggering 25% increase in sales compared to 2023, with projections for 2025 and 2026 indicating continued growth. This resurgence is not merely a recovery

In a significant shift in tourism management, the Nice-Côte d’Azur region has implemented new regulations concerning the arrival of large cruise ships. Following a decree signed by Mayor Christian Estrosi on January 24, 2023, vessels accommodating more than 900 passengers will no longer be permitted to dock in the harbor of Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer starting

Royal Caribbean Group’s recent announcement regarding its entry into the river cruise market has garnered significant attention and speculation within the travel industry. Although the decision to diversify from ocean cruising may seem unexpected for a company primarily recognized for its massive vessels that sail the high seas, industry insiders argue that this strategic expansion

Set to make its mark in April 2023, the MSC World America is poised to redefine the cruise experience by incorporating vibrant theatrical productions and an array of entertainment options specifically tailored to captivate a diverse audience. The cruise line, MSC Cruises, has strategically chosen Miami as the home port for this latest addition to

Nestled an hour east of Orlando, Port Canaveral has seen remarkable growth over the past few years, solidifying its status as the second-busiest cruise port in the world, trailing only PortMiami. Historically a launch pad for older vessels offering short jaunts to the Bahamas and other select destinations, the port is now attracting some of

In a significant move that underscores the evolving landscape of the cruise industry, Royal Caribbean Group has announced plans to launch a premium river cruise line, Celebrity River Cruises, set to commence operations in 2027. This initiative marks the company’s strategic foray into the river cruise segment, which has seen a surge in popularity among

This month, Royal Caribbean Group achieved historic booking levels during the Wave season, an accomplishment recently detailed by CEO Jason Liberty during the company’s fourth-quarter earnings presentation. This record-setting performance comes on the heels of a series of prior exceptional weeks leading into late last year, showcasing a robust recovery in the cruise industry that

Antarctica is often portrayed as the last pristine wilderness on Earth, a place where nature reigns supreme and human influence is nearly nonexistent. For many intrepid travelers, an expedition cruise to this remote continent represents an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes and observe unique wildlife. My recent journey aboard the Quark Ultramarine

As we delve into the ever-shifting world of social media marketing, particularly for travel advisors, one can’t ignore the profound impact of TikTok. This platform has transformed the way travel professionals engage with potential clients, offering unique ways to tell their stories. With its rapid ascent in popularity, TikTok provided travel advisors a refreshing avenue

Carnival Cruise Line has recently announced significant changes to its booking policies concerning minor guests, coming into effect on February 1st. These adjustments aim to enhance safety and oversight for younger travelers. Under the new guidelines, young guests aged 14 and below are required to be booked with a family member or guardian who is

In a strategic and forward-thinking move, Ponant Explorations Group has acquired Aqua Expeditions, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the global cruise industry. This acquisition positions Ponant to penetrate the lucrative river cruise sector while consolidating its presence in oceanic tourism. The implications of this acquisition extend beyond mere asset growth; they signal

In an exciting bid to establish a robust presence in the American cruise market, MSC Cruises is preparing to launch its first-ever Super Bowl commercial. Set to air on February 9, this 60-second advertisement will feature beloved Hollywood figures Drew Barrymore and Orlando Bloom. The ad is not merely a fleeting commercial; it marks the

The Walt Disney Company has recently undertaken a significant executive reshuffle, affecting several top management positions. Such changes are not merely administrative; they signify a strategic pivot aimed at enhancing Disney’s operational efficiency across its multifaceted business units. Key players like Ken Potrock, Thomas Mazloum, Joe Schott, and Andrew Bolstein are stepping into new roles

In an innovative move that prioritizes customer engagement and satisfaction, Celebrity Cruises is inviting the public to take part in shaping the experiences aboard their upcoming Edge-class ship, the Celebrity Xcel. Scheduled to make its debut in November, this initiative, heralded as „Dream Makers,“ signifies a shift in how cruise lines can incorporate guest feedback

Jacques Pepin’s name is synonymous with culinary excellence and creativity. As the founding father of Oceania Cruises‘ culinary philosophy, Pepin has significantly shaped the dining experiences aboard these luxurious vessels since he first partnered with the line in 2003. His extensive career spans decades and includes notable roles as a chef, restaurateur, author, and television

As the cruise industry continues its recovery and reinvention post-pandemic, Harry Sommer stands at the helm of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH). As Sommer begins his second year as CEO, his leadership approach marks a notable evolution from that of his predecessor, Frank J. Del Rio. This article examines Sommer’s strategies, including his commitment to

Recent developments surrounding TikTok have left many travel advisors grappling with uncertainty. The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling to uphold a federal law banning TikTok unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, divests ownership, marks a significant shift in the social media landscape. For countless travel advisors, TikTok has become more than just an application; it

In an age dominated by screens and digital distractions, the scene aboard Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam on a Canada & New England Discovery cruise is refreshingly wholesome and nostalgic. As the ship sailed from Quebec City to Boston in mid-September, passengers found themselves reveling in each other’s company, immersed in board games and card games

In an innovative move that promises to redefine luxury cruising, Virgin Voyages has unveiled its annual pass for 2026, setting a new benchmark in the industry. Priced at a staggering $199,000, the pass offers a plethora of premium benefits designed to entice affluent travelers. Two guests can enjoy unlimited sailing on any itinerary in a